Undergraduate Project
The Pro Player
A concept for an AR/VR suit to be used for Wide Receiver training
Class
Electronic Packaging
Completion Date
Key Skills
Product Design
Project Summary
Developed a concept for a next-generation football performance suit inspired by Iron Man technology.
Designed a wearable system capable of assisting NFL Combine testing, receiver drills, and athlete training.
Integrated augmented reality, motion tracking, and powered assistance into a football-specific exosuit concept.
Goals/Requirements
Complete NFL Combine events including the 40-yard dash, short shuttle, vertical jump, and standing broad jump.
Perform wide receiver-specific drills including sideline tap-tap, over-the-shoulder catch, multiple catch/gauntlet, and pass routes.
Create a form-fitting system that balances mobility, durability, and impact protection.
Provide training capabilities through augmented and virtual reality integration.
Design a wearable platform capable of real-time feedback and performance analysis.
Outcome
Designed a multi-layer suit architecture consisting of a moisture-wicking, high-elasticity spandex lining, foam rubber elastic polyurethane padding, and a TPU outer shell.
Selected spandex for the inner lining to provide flexibility, prevent abrasions, and improve comfort during movement while integrating position sensors for real-time form feedback.
Used polyurethane foam padding to mimic traditional football protective equipment while providing impact absorption during tackles and collisions.
Implemented conductive threads/e-textiles within the padding layer to transmit power and signals to the suit's motorized joints.
Selected TPU for the outer shell due to its durability, flexibility, and ability to protect embedded printed circuits while maintaining mobility.
Integrated friction-enhancing glove materials to improve football grip and incorporated motors at movable joints to assist athletic movements.
Used thermosetting black epoxy resin to encapsulate and protect the suit's electronic systems.
Incorporated passive heat pipes throughout the suit to manage heat dissipation without restricting movement.
Developed an electronics architecture consisting of an Arduino Uno main controller and four Lilypad Arduino sub-boards for distributed control throughout the suit.
Designed detachable connections using a D-sub port for the helmet, circular power ports, and discrete wire connectors for communication between motors and control systems.
Applied RoHS-compliant lead-free Sn/Ag/Cu solder to improve environmental safety and electronics reliability.
Created an AR-enabled helmet using Microsoft HoloLens technology, integrated microphones, speakers, cameras, proximity sensors, and a temple-mounted touchpad for communication and interface control.
Developed a VR training configuration using a modified VirtuSphere and Oculus Rift to enable immersive field simulations while inductive coils provided wireless charging during training.
Conclusion
Demonstrated the potential of wearable technology to enhance athlete training, safety, and performance analysis.
Created a concept combining biomechanics, robotics, and immersive technology into a football training platform.
Identified future challenges including power management, system weight, real-time control, and practical implementation.
Established a foundation for further exploration of smart athletic equipment and human-machine interaction.
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