Project Description
Innovation
Samsung-Blind Cap
The Blind Cap’s Innovative Technology
Instead of a coach manually tapping a swimmer when they reach the end of the pool, the Samsung Blind Cap’s built-in vibration technology provides the ability for a coach to use their Android phone or Smartwatch to tap the swimmer, who then receives a gentle vibration, alerting them of the exact moment of the turn.
How Creative Design Improves Potential
It may not seem like the act of tapping adds anything more than a second to the athlete’s finishing time. However, as with running or any speed-based sport, every second counts—even more so when one’s competitors are the best of the best. Replacing an erratic tap for a consistent vibration also may contribute to more ease and relaxation of the swimmer, even during such high stakes.
Availability and Use Among Athletes
As of right now, the Samsung Blind Cap is still being tested, therefore many details are limited. However, it is possible that along with the capability to alert Paralympic swimmers, the cap will also collect activity data regarding the swimmer’s performance. For now, the cap’s technology is only available to elite swimmers during training—it is still undecided if it will be allowed in competitions.
A Stroke in the Right Direction
Although information surrounding the Blind Cap is yet to be firmly established, the effort put forth toward bettering Paralympic swimmers’ experiences is a solid attempt to use innovative technology to set right a reality most have let stay under the surface.
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