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Background |
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According to the National Athletic Trainers’ Association and National Collegiate Athletics Association, about 12,500 injuries occur in athletes who play in divisions I, II and III of collegiate sports. With the hopes of reducing athletic injuries, the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment has established standards for athletic equipment. This includes the use equipment such as helmets, shin guards, shoulder pads, and other equipment during practices and games for many sports. However, despite the initiatives from these associations, players are still facing complications during their sports due to factors such as prolonged heart elevation, dehydration, overheating, and force impact during play.
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Goals |
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In order to reduce the chance of such injuries, the Athlete Tracker will serve as a noninvasive, unobtrusive device that athletes can wear to monitor physical activity that may be harmful. It will incorporate multiple sensors which will measure body temperature, heart rate and impact force. When the device senses a level indicative of injury or overexertion, it will alert the player who will be able to take measures to prevent possible injury. The data will also have the ability to be stored on a USB drive to be analyzed by players, coaches, or trainers. By taking the necessary steps in preventing both physical injuries and overexertion, athletes can play their sports safely while avoiding complications from practices and games.