Lì yuán usage instructions

This page contains Li Yuan usage instructions. Clicca qui per la versione italiana.

Li Yuan is a web application designed to train the movement and coordination required for the execution of vertical circles in Taijiquan. The application uses computer vision algorithms to provide visual references that help improve precision, continuity, and awareness of movement.

Supported Circle Types

Li Yuan supports three categories of vertical circles:

1. Synchronous Circles: The hands (used as the reference) move together in the same direction. Example: The connecting movement between the techniques Taiji Opening (太極初勢 Taiji Chushi) and Brush Knee and Twist Step (攬擦衣 Lanzhayi) in the Sizheng form.
2. Symmetrical Circles: The hands move symmetrically with respect to the body’s central axis. Example: The Taiji Opening technique (太極初勢 Taiji Chushi) that begins the Sizheng sequence.
3. Alternating Circles: Derived from symmetrical circles, the hands move out of phase with each other. Example: The technique Cloud Hands (雲手 Yunshou).

Technical Requirements

As a web-based application, Li Yuan does not require installation. Required:

• a desktop or laptop computer equipped with a camera
• a modern web browser with JavaScript enabled

Recommended browser: Google Chrome

Accessing the Web App

1. Open your web browser
2. Go to: https://www.chentaichi.it/liyuan/
3. Allow access to the camera when prompted by the browser

User Positioning

Once the camera is activated, the user must stand at an appropriate distance from the computer. If the distance is incorrect, Li Yuan displays the message: “try to go back a little more”.

When the position is correct, the following elements appear on screen:

• two guide circles (to the left and right of the body’s center)
• a command bar at the top of the screen

The circles can be used as reference trajectories during free practice.

Interface and Controls

The web page is entirely dedicated to the image captured by the camera.

General Controls

In the top-right corner, the following buttons are available:

Mode Menu

Within the camera image, in the top bar, the following options are available:

• Synchronous Circles
• Inside Out
• Outside In
• Cloud Hands
• Repulse Monkey

Selecting a Mode

To select an option:

1. raise one hand
2. place it inside the desired selection box
3. hold the position for approximately two seconds

Correct hand positioning is indicated by a red dot inside the box.

Guided Mode

When a mode is selected:

• two colored dots appear and move along the circular trajectories
• the hands should follow the movement of the dots

This mode promotes:

• coordination
• correct timing
• continuity of movement

Controls Available in Guided Mode

During guided mode, the following controls are available:

• Reset: returns to the initial screen
• To the Right / To the Left (Synchronous Circles only): changes the direction of the guides
• Speed Uu / Slow down: adjusts the speed of the guides

These commands are also activated by placing the hand inside the corresponding box for approximately two seconds.

Final Notes

Li Yuan is intended as a support tool for practice, not as a replacement for direct teaching. The goal is to make movement visible in order to develop greater awareness, precision, and overall quality of execution.