SwimMetrics
A data analysis tool for swimmers
PRODUCT DESIGN – MECHANICAL ENGINEERING – DATA ANALYSIS – AI – UX/UI – PROTOTYPING – ENGINEERING IN SPORT
THE GOAL
This Graduation Project aims to prototype a portable swimming data analysis solution. It is based on a smartphone for capturing and processing motion, a device widely used nowadays. Thus, this wearable represents a step towards a more accessible alternative for all interested in enhancing their swimming practice, reducing the need for additional or expensive devices.
The goal is to offer swimmers a practical tool to analyze their swimming sessions, optimize their training, and achieve better performance in this sport.
COMPANY
Polytechnic University of Catalonia
ROLE
Double Graduation Project
(Industrial Design – Mechanical Engineering)
YEAR
12 months ❘ 2022 – 2023
SOFTWARE
STARTING POINT
I start by conducting a survey among swimmers from the database of the Catalan Swimming Federation.
The main objective is to understand the needs and preferences of athletes during their training sessions. I focus primarily on feedback devices, placed on different parts of the body, that provide various information and parameters of interest to the swimmer.
Based on the survey results, I determine that the best way to increase swimming training efficiency is through
a device, based on a smartphone, that collects data from the swimmer’s movements and processes it within an App.
IDEATION FOR THE CASING
I initiate the brainstorming process for the ergonomic casing, exploring various ideas in alignment with the established criteria.
Afterward, I develop six design routes, iterating through aspects of design, user experience, ergonomics, and assembly of components. Employing both design and engineering criteria, I aim to achieve a product that is both submersible, ergonomic, and safe.
I apply the Weighted Sum Method to determine the best alternative, based on the relative importance of each requirement.
The chosen route is E, to which I apply one final change: adding a support to provide greater stability to the assembly.
To determine the overall dimensions of both the casing and the belt,
I conduct three biomechanical studies:
PROTOTYPE ITERATION
The process advances through a series of incremental modifications, transitioning from CAD modeling to 3D printing, to attain the most suitable design and assembly for the casing.
FIELD STUDY
In order to develop the programming tasks that need to be executed in the backend of the App,
I record data from my own swimming training sessions,
using a waterproof case and bag for my smartphone.
To extract accurate and specific parameters for each swimming style, I develop a style classification model. This allows the App
to identify the swimmer’s technique through the utilization of Artificial Intelligence,
thus facilitating the extraction of pertinent parameters.
