Outcome summary
We designed a multi-size test method and a new criterion, now proposed in a draft revision of the test guidelines. It has not yet been adopted.
Starting situation
Protectors used to be tested on one size only. But sensitivity and coverage can differ between sizes, so an approval did not guarantee the same scoring on the size an athlete actually wears.
The World Taekwondo Technical Delegate asked the laboratory to verify all body and head sizes.
The system
- The largest body size, the worst case for uniformity, gets the full test at all energy levels.
- The other body sizes are checked at one energy level.
- Head protectors are tested on every size.
- A new criterion requires the hit level of all body sizes to agree within a narrow band.
Implementation
The laboratory designed the method to keep time and cost reasonable. The principle is simple: the size an athlete wears must not make points easier or harder to score.
Results and evidence
The method is included in the draft revision of the test guidelines, submitted to the World Taekwondo working group.
After launch
It has not yet been adopted.