U.S. patent application number 14/931627 was filed with the patent office on 2016-06-09 for system and method for collecting, analyzing and reporting fitness activity data.
The applicant listed for this patent is David Rolley. Invention is credited to David Rolley.
Application Number | 20160158600 14/931627 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51841883 |
Filed Date | 2016-06-09 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160158600 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rolley; David |
June 9, 2016 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING, ANALYZING AND REPORTING FITNESS
ACTIVITY DATA
Abstract
In one aspect of the invention, a system for monitoring a
fitness activity of user performing a fitness activity with an
exercise device is described herein. The system includes a sensor
for sensing and transmitting data indicative of an exercise that is
being performed with an exercise device, a user identification
device, a database, and a processor. The processor is configured to
receive a signal indicative of a patron ID and responsively
retrieve a patron record being associated with the received patron
ID from the database. The processor also determines a planned
exercise sequence associated with the patron exercise session as a
function of the retrieved patron record, determines a current
exercise sequence being performed by the patron, and determines a
condition of the patron exercise session as a function of the
planned exercise sequence and the current exercise sequence.
Inventors: |
Rolley; David; (Las Vegas,
NV) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Rolley; David |
Las Vegas |
NV |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51841883 |
Appl. No.: |
14/931627 |
Filed: |
November 3, 2015 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
14268181 |
May 2, 2014 |
9213803 |
|
|
14931627 |
|
|
|
|
61818776 |
May 2, 2013 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/9 ;
482/8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G16H 20/30 20180101;
G16H 40/67 20180101; G16H 10/60 20180101; A63B 2220/51 20130101;
A63B 2220/05 20130101; A63B 24/0062 20130101; G06F 19/3481
20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101; G06K 9/00288 20130101; G06K
9/00342 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00; G06F 19/00 20060101 G06F019/00 |
Claims
1. A system for monitoring a fitness activity of a user,
comprising: an equipment sensor adapted to be coupled to the
exercise device for sensing and transmitting data indicative of an
exercise being performed with the exercise device, the sensed data
including a force being applied to the exercise device; a mobile
device associated with the user, the mobile device including a
sensor for sensing a movement of the user and configured to
generate and transmit a signal including a patron ID and exercise
data indicating the sensed movement; a database including a
collection of patron records, each patron record being associated
with a corresponding patron ID and including a list of patron
exercises; and a server computer including a processor coupled to a
memory device, the processor configured to: receive, from the
equipment sensor, a signal indicative of a force being applied to
the exercise device and responsively initiate a patron exercise
session; receive, from the mobile device, a signal including the
exercise data and the patron ID, retrieve a patron record being
associated with the received patron ID from the database, and
initiate an exercise session; determine a planned exercise sequence
associated with the patron exercise session as a function of the
retrieved patron record and the received exercise data; determine a
current exercise sequence being performed by the patron as a
function of the sensed force being applied to the exercise device
and the received exercise data; and determine a condition of the
patron exercise session as a function of the planned exercise
sequence and the current exercise sequence.
2. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the server computer
is configured to determine the condition of the patron exercise
session to be less than a predefined exercise session if the
current exercise sequence is different from the planned exercise
sequence, and responsively notify the user via the mobile
device.
3. A system in accordance with claim 2, wherein the mobile device
includes a display, the server computer configured to render a
trace image indicating the current exercise sequence on the display
of the mobile device.
4. A system in accordance with claim 3, wherein the server computer
is configured to render a trace indicative of the planned exercise
sequence and the current exercise sequence on the display of the
mobile device.
5. A system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising a
display device, the server computer configured to render an image
of the planned exercise sequence on the display device.
6. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the server computer
is configured to: receive a unique device ID from the equipment
sensor; determine an exercise device type being used by the patron
as a function of the received unique device ID; and determine the
planned exercise sequence as a function of the identified exercise
device type.
7. A system in accordance with claim 1, further comprising video
imaging device for capturing video images of the user during the
exercise session, the server computer configured to receive the
video images from the video imaging device and determine the
condition of the patron exercise session as a function of the
received video images.
8. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the server computer
is configured to: determine a plurality of exercise values being
associated with the current exercise sequence as a function of the
sensed data; and generate and store data indicative of the current
exercise sequence in the database, the current exercise sequence
being associated with the patron record.
9. A system in accordance with claim 8, wherein the plurality of
exercise values includes at least one of a number of exercise sets
included in the current exercise sequence, a number of exercise
repetitions being included in each exercise set, a time to complete
each exercise repetition, a tempo of exercise repetitions, a time
to complete each set, and a time between each set.
10. A system in accordance with claim 1, wherein the server
computer is configured to generate a modified exercise sequence as
a function of the current exercise sequence and the planned
exercise sequence and store the modified exercise sequence in the
database for use during a subsequent exercise session initiated by
the associated patron.
11. A computer implemented method of monitoring a fitness activity
of a user, including a server computer performing the steps of:
operating a mobile device including a sensor to sense a movement of
the user and generate and transmit a signal including a patron ID
and exercise data indicating the sensed movement; receiving the
signal from the mobile device including the exercise data and the
patron ID, accessing a database including a plurality of patron
records, retrieving a patron record being associated with the
received patron ID from the database, and initiating an exercise
session; determining a planned exercise sequence associated with
the patron exercise session as a function of the retrieved patron
record and the received exercise data; receiving, from an equipment
sensor coupled to an exercise device, a signal indicative of a
force being applied to the exercise device; determining a current
exercise sequence being performed by the patron as a function of
the sensed force being applied to the exercise device and the
received exercise data; determining a condition of the patron
exercise session as a function of the planned exercise sequence and
the current exercise sequence; and rendering an image indicating
the current exercise sequence on the mobile device.
12. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the step of
determining the condition of the patron exercise session to be less
than a predefined exercise session if the current exercise sequence
is different from the planned exercise sequence, and responsively
notifying the user via the mobile device.
13. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of
rendering a trace indicative of the planned exercise sequence and
the current exercise sequence on the mobile device.
14. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of
rendering an image of the planned exercise sequence on a display
device.
15. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of:
receiving a unique device ID from the equipment sensor; determining
an exercise device type being used by the patron as a function of
the received unique device ID; and determining the planned exercise
sequence as a function of the identified exercise device type.
16. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of
receiving video images of the user during the exercise session from
a video imaging device; and determining the condition of the patron
exercise session as a function of the received video images.
17. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of:
determining a plurality of exercise values being associated with
the current exercise sequence as a function of the sensed data; and
generating and storing data indicative of the current exercise
sequence in the database, the current exercise sequence being
associated with the patron record.
18. A method in accordance with claim 17, wherein the plurality of
exercise values includes at least one of a number of exercise sets
included in the current exercise sequence, a number of exercise
repetitions being included in each exercise set, a time to complete
each exercise repetition, a tempo of exercise repetitions, a time
to complete each set, and a time between each set.
19. A method in accordance with claim 11, including the steps of
generating a modified exercise sequence as a function of the
current exercise sequence and the planned exercise sequence and
storing the modified exercise sequence in the database for use
during a subsequent exercise session initiated by the associated
patron.
20. One or more non-transitory computer-readable storage media,
having computer-executable instructions embodied thereon, wherein
when executed by at least one processor, the computer-executable
instructions cause the processor to: operate a mobile device
including a sensor to sense a movement of the user and generate and
transmit a signal including exercise data indicating the sensed
movement and a patron ID; receive the signal from the mobile device
including the exercise data and the patron ID, accessing a database
including a plurality of patron records, retrieving a patron record
being associated with the received patron ID from the database, and
initiating an exercise session; determine a planned exercise
sequence associated with the patron exercise session as a function
of the retrieved patron record and the received exercise data;
receive, from an equipment sensor coupled to an exercise device, a
signal indicative of a force being applied to the exercise device;
determine a current exercise sequence being performed by the patron
as a function of the sensed force being applied to the exercise
device and the received exercise data; determine a condition of the
patron exercise session as a function of the planned exercise
sequence and the current exercise sequence; and render an image
indicating the current exercise sequence on the mobile device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional
patent application Ser. No. 14/268,181, filed May 2, 2014, which
claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.
61/818,776, filed May 2, 2013, the disclosures of which are hereby
incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The invention generally relates to systems and methods for
collecting, analyzing and reporting fitness activity data, such as
data relating to muscle mechanics, among other things.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The public is becoming ever increasingly aware of their
individual physical fitness needs. There exists a wide variety of
training advice and fitness regimens for the public to follow,
which may be customized to suit individual preferences and
limitations. There also exists devices that may be used to track
fitness efforts, such as pedometers.
[0004] It would be useful if a system and method were developed
which could measure physical parameters and, from those
measurements, determine the impact of an individual's fitness
training efforts for the purpose of providing feedback and
guidelines to assist in improving that individual's fitness
training efforts and managing the risk of potential injury.
[0005] The present invention is aimed at one or more of the
problems identified above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The invention is generally directed to systems and methods
for monitoring a fitness activity of a user performing an
exercise.
[0007] In one aspect of the invention, a system for monitoring a
fitness activity of a user performing a fitness activity with an
exercise device is provided. The system includes a sensor that is
adapted to be coupled to the exercise device for sensing and
transmitting data indicative of an exercise that is being performed
with the exercise device, a user identification device for use in
identifying a patron ID, a database, and a processor. The database
includes a collection of patron records. Each patron record is
associated with a corresponding patron ID and includes a list of
patron exercises. The processor is configured to receive, from the
sensor, a signal indicative of a force being applied to the
exercise device and responsively initiate a patron exercise session
and receive, from the user identification device, a signal
indicative of a patron ID and responsively retrieve a patron record
being associated with the received patron ID from the database. The
processor also determines a planned exercise sequence associated
with the patron exercise session as a function of the retrieved
patron record, determines a current exercise sequence being
performed by the patron with the exercise device as a function of
the sensed force being applied to the exercise device, and
determines a condition of the patron exercise session as a function
of the planned exercise sequence and the current exercise
sequence.
[0008] In another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for
monitoring a fitness activity of user performing a fitness activity
is provided. The apparatus includes an exercise device for use in
performing the fitness activity by the user, a sensor coupled to
the exercise device for sensing and transmitting data indicative of
a fitness activity being performed with the exercise device, a user
identification device for use in identifying a patron ID, a
database, and a processor. The database includes a collection of
patron records. Each patron record is associated with a
corresponding patron ID and includes a list of patron exercises.
The processor is configured to receive, from the sensor, a signal
indicative of a force being applied to the exercise device and
responsively initiate a patron exercise session, and receive, from
the user identification device, a signal indicative of a patron ID
and responsively retrieve a patron record being associated with the
received patron ID from the database. The processor also determines
a planned exercise sequence associated with the patron exercise
session as a function of the retrieved patron record, determines a
current exercise sequence being performed by the patron with the
exercise device as a function of the sensed force being applied to
the exercise device, and determines a condition of the patron
exercise session as a function of the planned exercise sequence and
the current exercise sequence.
[0009] In yet a further aspect of the invention, a method of
monitoring a fitness activity of a user performing a fitness
activity with an exercise device is provided. The method includes
the steps of receiving, by a processor, a signal indicative of a
force being applied to the exercise device and responsively
initiating a patron exercise session, and receiving, from the user
identification device, a signal indicative of a patron ID and
responsively retrieving a patron record being associated with the
received patron ID from a database. The method also includes
determining, a planned exercise sequence associated with the patron
exercise session as a function of the retrieved patron record,
determining a current exercise sequence being performed by the
patron with the exercise device as a function of the sensed force
being applied to the exercise device, and displaying a trace
indicative of the planned exercise sequence and the current
exercise sequence on a display device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] Other advantages of the present invention will be readily
appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to
the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings wherein:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an exemplary monitoring system
that may be used to monitor a fitness activity of a user performing
an exercise with an exercise device, according to an embodiment of
the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a computing device that may be
used with the monitoring system shown in FIG. 1, according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] FIGS. 3-5 are schematic views of an exercise device that may
be used with the monitoring system shown in FIG. 1, according to an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0014] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method that may be used with the
monitoring system shown in FIG. 1 for monitoring a fitness activity
of a user performing an exercise with an exercise device, according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0015] FIGS. 7-12 are graphical displays of a fitness activity that
may be displayed with the monitoring system shown in FIG. 1,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIGS. 13 and 14 are graphic illustrations of exercises that
may be performed with the monitoring system shown in FIG. 1,
according to an embodiment of the present invention; and
[0017] FIG. 15 is another block diagram of the monitoring system
shown in FIG. 1, according to an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0018] Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding
parts throughout the drawings.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The invention is generally directed to systems and methods
for, among other things, monitoring a fitness activity of a user
performing an exercise, providing feedback and guidelines to assist
in improving an individual's fitness training efforts and managing
the risk of potential injury.
[0020] Some embodiments of the invention include systems and
methods which provide for collecting and/or receiving a plurality
of individual fitness activity data, which may include data
relating to the individual's musculature response to exertion and
body mechanics, among other things; analyzing the fitness activity
data to determine trends and baseline profile information;
comparing additional fitness activity data with the determined
trends and baseline profile information; and reporting the data or
providing an alert if the additional fitness activity data does not
conform to the determined trends and baseline information or is
outside preset threshold values.
[0021] In some embodiments, a statistical probability algorithm is
used to analyze the fitness data and compare additional fitness
data.
[0022] A system of the invention may provide user interfaces
configured as graphical user interfaces (also referred to herein as
"screens") which may be presented on a display. Graphical user
interfaces which may be employed may generally incorporate
user-friendly features and fit seamlessly with other operating
system interfaces, that is, in a framed form having borders,
multiple folders, toolbars with pull-down menus, embedded links to
other screens and various other selectable features associated with
animated graphical representations of depressible buttons. These
features can be selected (i.e., "clicked on") by the user via
connected mouse, keyboard, or other commonly used tool for
indicating a preference in a computerized graphical interface.
[0023] The order of execution or performance of the operations in
the embodiments of the invention illustrated and described herein
is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the
operations described herein may be performed in any order, unless
otherwise specified, and embodiments of the invention may include
additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For
example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a
particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after
another operation is within the scope of aspects of the
invention.
[0024] Those skilled in the art will also readily appreciate that
systems and methods configured in accordance with the invention
including the exemplary embodiment in the accompanying materials
may include or employ various computer and network related software
and hardware, such as software and hardware which are used in a
distributed computing network, that is, programs, operating
systems, memory storage devices, input/output devices, data
processors, servers with communication links, wireless or
otherwise, such as those which take the form of a local or wide
area network, and a plurality of data terminals within the network,
such as personal computers and mobile devices. Those skilled in the
art will further appreciate that, so long as its users are provided
with access to systems and methods constructed in accordance with
the invention, specific types of network, software or hardware are
not vital to its implementation.
[0025] In some embodiments, a processor, as described herein,
includes any programmable system including systems and
microcontrollers, reduced instruction set circuits (RISC),
application specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic
circuits (PLC), and any other circuit or processor capable of
executing the functions described herein. The above examples are
exemplary only, and thus are not intended to limit in any way the
definition and/or meaning of the term processor.
[0026] In some embodiments, a database, as described herein,
includes any collection of data including hierarchical databases,
relational databases, flat file databases, object-relational
databases, object oriented databases, and any other structured
collection of records or data that is stored in a computer system.
The above examples are exemplary only, and thus are not intended to
limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term
database, in that any database may be used that enables the systems
and methods described herein.
[0027] Some embodiments of the invention are also directed to a
non-transitory machine readable media for providing methods as
described herein, including one or more software programs, code
and/or data segments as necessary to install or otherwise provide
any of the methods described herein on one or more computing
machines.
[0028] These and other aspects of the systems and methods of the
invention will become more readily apparent to those having
ordinary skill in the art from the following description of an
exemplary embodiment of the invention taken in conjunction with the
exemplary embodiment of the methods and systems of the invention as
described herein.
[0029] An exemplary embodiment of the invention provides a system
for connecting all equipment in a facility (where applicable) for a
total body holistic approach. Algorithms used will be able to help
predict potential injury if the client uses our product/equipment
and system for working out.
[0030] In some embodiments, systems and components may be designed
around some or all of the following features: performance training:
meaning optimized training to perform in any sport or daily
activity; early detection of injury through trending of data and
analyzing activities; secure HIPAA data for the medical side of
business; secure personal information via a customized "Smartband"
used in some embodiments of the invention which also houses
individual medical information in case of emergency or for doctors
records; algorithms that take pre-stored data and information to
provide strong results and predictive progress based off either
baseline profile or baseline with past history analysis; multiple
facilities can connect across the network to integrate multiple
fitness and/or medical facilities; and FCC licensed wireless
network platforms.
[0031] Data is trended over time such that progress can be
predicted by some embodiments of the invention. The invention can
be configured to store data trends in the knowledge base and offer
adjustments to workout per specific sport, and provide ongoing
support routines to provide a holistic approach to training. For
example different sports require different muscles and movements,
without the foundation of support muscle for those movements and
muscle groups. There is a chain reaction effect which can be
detected and mitigated by this embodiment of the invention.
[0032] Some of the data captured by embodiments of the invention
may include but is not limited to the following: [0033] a. Exercise
Performed [0034] b. Range of Motion [0035] c. Duration of
Repetition [0036] d. Duration of Set [0037] e. Number of
Repetitions [0038] f. Number of Sets [0039] g. Tempo of Repetitions
[0040] h. Total Effort [0041] i. Average Effort [0042] j. Peak
Concentric Force [0043] k. Average Concentric Force [0044] l. Peak
Eccentric Force [0045] m. Average Eccentric Force
[0046] Depending on the training requirements routines that are
established, the system of the invention can notify trainers and
patrons that the lack of either fast twitch muscles or slow twitch
muscles are not being balanced in the current routine and
history.
[0047] The system of the invention may also advantageously be used
in larger facilities to locate personnel in case of an
emergency.
[0048] Due to the electronics attached, the system of the invention
may also advantageously be used so that each piece of equipment can
now have an associated unique ID such as an IP address, which can
be used in maintenance programs for scheduling maintenance, analyze
usage of the equipment so that the facility can remove equipment
that is never used to allow a smaller foot print or only carry the
equipment that is utilized within the facility.
[0049] The system of the invention may also provide for social
media connections, so that users can connect with friends or
competitors across the country or work out at the same time at a
different gym, synchronize workouts and compare progress.
[0050] In some embodiments, the system and/or equipment recognizes
an individual, accesses the individual's profile and records,
stores fitness activity data relating to the current workout and
updates trends relating to the individual's workouts in a database.
Information is compared to beginning profile and baseline profile
and areas of improvement or no improvement highlighted over time.
Real time data immediately available through the system of the
invention.
[0051] Systems of the invention permit personal trainers to
function remotely as a person performs exercises, data is received
and the trainers can communicate with the individual, for example,
through text messages. Trainers can thus adjust the work out for
many while staying in his/her office or remote location.
[0052] The invention provides records of muscle mechanics to
provide to physical therapists or an attending physician upon
completion of a rehab session. Rehab patients can view their
progress instantly and review on a weekly basis with physician
(i.e. cardiologist or physical therapist etc).
[0053] It should be understood that the system of the invention may
incorporate any exercise and machine or weights, such as treadmill,
stair climbers, and elliptical equipment. Free weights for use with
the system of the invention may have electronics built inside or
attached, which will also allow the system to identify each weight
as part of the system.
[0054] The system also enables communications for hand off to
predetermined routines or check availability. Each piece of
equipment may include a digital communication unit for enabling
equipment to equipment or peer to peer communication for system
self healing in case of failure of equipment communication at any
given point in time. The system allows individual end users to be
able to go to a system website or through the fitness center's
website to view their progress. The system may also conduct a
macro-analysis of the fitness center data and, based on the normal
use patterns, compare to the individual's predetermined work out
and provide them with the best time to go work out.
[0055] As shown in the accompanying figures, including FIG. 1 which
provides a schematic diagram showing a general system overview, and
FIG. 2 which provides a diagram of a bench press with weight
sensor, which may be used with embodiments of the invention.
Sensors may be strategically located within the equipment or
attached, or otherwise be associated with the equipment and have
multiple configurations dependent on the intended use. For example
in training on free weight equipment a flat bench can be used for
many exercises. Based on the exercise preconfigured in the users
program or the weight distribution the attached electronic digital
communication unit determines the exercise being performed. Sensors
may include any conventional sensors for detecting and recording
movement, among other things, including video cameras or movement
capturing cameras for detecting physical movement.
[0056] FIGS. 1 and 15 are block diagrams of an exemplary monitoring
system 10 that may be used to monitor a fitness activity of a user
12 performing an exercise with an exercise device 14. FIG. 2 is a
block diagram of a computing device 16 that may be used with the
monitoring system 10. FIG. 3 is front view of an exercise device 14
that may be used with the monitoring system 10. FIG. 4 is a top
view of an exercise device 14 shown in FIG. 3, and FIG. 5 is a side
view of the exercise device 14 shown in FIG. 3.
[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, monitoring system 10 includes
a user identification device 18, a computing device 16 that is
coupled in communication with the user identification device 18,
and one or more sensors 20 that communicate with the computing
device 16 for detecting various parameters relative to a fitness
activity being performed by a user 12. In the illustrated
embodiment, the monitoring system 10 may be used to monitor a
patron exercise session being performed by a user/patron 12
including a plurality of exercises being performed using a
plurality of exercise equipment in a gym. In addition, in one
embodiment, the system 10 may be configured in a portable manner
for offsite evaluation and outside training.
[0058] The computing device 16 communicates with the sensors 20
and/or the user identification devices 18 via a communications link
22 such as, for example, the Internet, a cellular
telecommunications network, a wireless network and/or any suitable
communications network that enables the computing device 16 to
access the sensors 20 and/or the user identification devices
18.
[0059] The computing device 16 receives data indicative of the
fitness activity being performed by the user and determines a
current fitness activity level of the user based on the sensed
data. In addition the computing device 16 compares the current
fitness activity level with a planned activity level and determines
a condition of a user exercise session based on a difference
between the current and planned activities levels. Moreover, the
computing device 16 may display the current and/or planned activity
levels to the user to allow the user to view any current
differences and/or deviations from the planned activity level.
[0060] In one embodiment, the system 10 may generate a current
exercise sequence and/or a current fitness activity level and
compare the sequence and/or activity level to either a planned
exercise sequence and/or a history of the sequences that have been
performed by the patron/athlete. The system 10 may also transmit
messages indicative of the current exercise sequence and/or a
current fitness activity level to a plurality of user
identification device 18 and/or display the information on a
website to notify trainers, medical practitioners and patron or any
suitable user of current exercise sequences, current fitness
activity levels, planned exercise sequences/levels and/or historic
sequences/levels associated with the patron/athlete.
[0061] The sensors 20 may include, but are not limited to, motion
sensors, vibration sensors, position sensors, temperature sensors,
acceleration sensors, speed sensors, load sensors, load cells,
weight sensors and/or any other sensors that sense various
parameters relative to the performance of an exercise and/or
fitness activity being performed by a user. The monitoring system
10 may also include sensors that may be contained within the pad of
the exercise equipment. The monitoring system 10 may also include a
sensor pad 23 (shown in FIG. 2) that is coupled to the exercise
device 14. The sensor pad 23 may include a plurality of sensors 20
for sensing a position and/or weight distribution of the
patron/athlete positioned on the exercise device 14.
[0062] In one embodiment, the monitoring system 10 includes at
least one sensor 20 that is coupled to an exercise device 14 for
sensing fitness parameters associated with an exercise being
performed by the user with the exercise device 14. The exercise
device 14 may include, but is not limited to, a weight bench 24
(shown in FIGS. 3-5), an exercise mat 26 (shown in FIG. 14), a
bench, a squat rack, a weight rack, a treadmill, a stationary
bicycle, a pilates reformer, free weights, a cable machine, a
rowing machine, an elliptical machine, a multi-station machines,
personal/home gym systems, and/or any suitable exercise equipment
that enables the monitoring system 10 to function as described
herein. In addition, the monitoring system 10 may include at least
one sensor 20 that is coupled to the patron 12.
[0063] For example, in one embodiment, the system 10 may include
wearable sensors that can be attached to the body or is contained
within a particular material worn as clothing or an attachment to
the attire of the patron. In addition, the system 10 may include a
portable EEG system that attaches and provides ongoing data of the
frequency of the brain waves prior to/during and after training
sessions. The EEG sensors are tied to a separate algorithm that
interrogates the brain waves and provides a definitive assessment
of the emotions/behavior of the athlete/person, and is included in
the overall real time assessment of the activities. The EEG systems
may also be used to sense fitness activity during use in actual
sporting events. In addition, the system 10 may also include hand
scanning sensors that may be used to scan the content of particular
vitamins and nutrients mainly used to accurately determine and
identify the level of deficiency of vitamins within the body at
training time and after training. Through the algorithm determines
the exhaustion pattern of absorbed vitamins to determine a level of
hormone levels in the patron and identify those using to adjust the
algorithm and run a separate predictive baseline, etc.
[0064] In addition, in one embodiment, the system 10 enables
synchronization of the data across the multiple devices or the
system to synchronize the data flow from multiple sources.
Information that may be obtained by the system 10 includes, but is
not limited to, ECG/EKG data, Heat flux--to measure rate at which
heat is dissipating--perspiration, Skin temperature, GPS for
location of body extremities and skeletal structure, EEG data, BMI,
Muscle Tone, Stance Posture, and/or Biomechanics of each
exercise.
[0065] In one embodiment, the system 10 includes three sensing
layers to enable the computing device 16 to determine decides which
is the most accurate for the calculations and data feedback: L4ayer
one--motion capture video, Layer two--equipment sensors, and Layer
three--wearable 4sensor.
[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the monitoring system 10
includes at least one load sensor 28 that is coupled to the
exercise device 14 such as, for example, the weight bench 24, for
sensing a load being imparted on the exercise device 14 by the
user, and transmitting data indicative of the sensed load to the
computing device 16. The weight bench 24 may include a bench 30 and
a weight rack 32 that is coupled to one end of the weight bench 24.
The system 10 may include a first load sensor 34 that is coupled to
the bench 30 for sensing a load being imparted to the bench 30, and
a second load sensor 36 that is coupled to the weight rack 32 for
sensing a load being imparted to the weight rack 32.
[0067] Referring to FIGS. 3-5 and 13, during an exercise session
being performed with the weight bench 24, as a patron 12 places a
lifting bar and weights on the weight rack 32, the second load
sensor 36 detects the load being imparted onto the weight rack 32
from the lifting bar and weights and transmits a signal indicative
of the sensed load to the computing device 16. In addition, as the
patron contacts the bench 30 to begin an exercise, e.g. lays on the
bench to perform a set of bench press repetitions, the first load
sensor 34 detects the load being imparted on the bench 30 by the
patron and transmits a signal indicative of the sensed load to the
computing device 16. Moreover, the first and the second load
sensors 34 and 36 may also detect a change in the sensed loads
during the performance of the exercise by the patron. For example,
as the patron lifts the weight from the weight rack 32, the first
and second load sensors 34 and 36 detect a change in the loads
being imparted to the bench 30 and the rack 32, respectively. In
addition, as the patron lowers and raises the weight to perform a
repetition (shown in FIG. 13), the first load sensor 34 detects a
change in load being applied to the bench 30 as the weight is
lowered and raised by the patron 12.
[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 10 may also
include a video imaging device 38 such as, for example, a video
camera that is configured to capture and transmit images of a
patron performing a fitness activity to the computing device 16. In
addition, the video imaging device 38 may be configured to detect a
position of a patron and/or portions of the patron's body during
the performance of an exercise for use in determining a range of
motion during the exercise. For example, as shown in FIG. 14,
during a lunge exercise, the video imaging device 38 may detect a
first position 40 of a patron including a first height 42 of the
patron above an exercise mat 26. During the exercise, as the patron
extends forward and lowers towards the mat, the video imaging
device 38 may detect a second position 44 of the patron's body
including a second height 46 of the patron above the exercise mat
26 and transmit the sensed data to the computing device 16. In one
embodiment, the system 10 may include a load sensor 28 that is
coupled to the exercise mat 26 for sensing a change in the load
being applied to the mat 26 by the patron. For example, during the
lunge exercise, the load sensor 28 may detect a change in the load
being applied to the mat 26 as the patron extends forward to
perform a lunge repetition.
[0069] The video imaging device 38 may also include a
motion-capture device for generating data indicative of
motion-capture video images. The video imaging device and sensors,
in some embodiments, may be incorporated to devise a subsystem in
specific requirements in sports training. For instance in soccer in
learning to properly strike the ball a hypersensitive sensor may be
enclosed within the ankle region to capture vibrations while the
video motion capture allows visibility to the biomechanics of the
task. The system 10 may also use motion capture video to generate
and store images of normal activities being performed by the
athlete/patron such as walking, running, and/or aerobic exercises
and flag these images for review by professional for purposes of
evaluating normal balance or over compensation of an injury
[0070] The user identification device 18 is coupled in
communication with the computing device 16 to transmit and receive
data to and/or from the computing device 16 to enable a user to
interact with the computing device 16 to view, input, and/or modify
information associated with a fitness activity, health, and/or
exercise being performed by the user. In the illustrated
embodiment, the user identification device 18 includes a controller
48 that is coupled to a display device 50 and a user interface
device 52. The controller 48 receives and transmits information to
and from the computing device 16 and displays graphical interfaces
(shown in FIGS. 7-12) on the display device 50 to enable the user
to interact with the computing device 16. In one embodiment, the
user interface device 52 may include, without limitation, a
keyboard, a keypad, a touch-sensitive screen, a scroll wheel, a
pointing device, a barcode reader, a magnetic card reader, a radio
frequency identification (RFID) card reader, an audio input device
employing speech-recognition software, a camera, a facial
recognition device, a biometric reader, a motion-capture device, a
video capture device, and/or any suitable device that enables a
user to input data into the controller 48 and/or to retrieve data
from the controller 48. The display device 50 may include, without
limitation, a flat panel display, such as a cathode ray tube
display (CRT), a liquid crystal display (LCD), a light-emitting
diode display (LED), active-matrix organic light-emitting diode
(AMOLED), a plasma display, and/or any suitable visual output
device capable of displaying graphical data, video images, and/or
text to a user. In one embodiment, a single component, such as a
touch screen, a capacitive touch screen, and/or a touchless screen,
may function as both the display device 50 and as the user
interface device 52. The user identification device 18 may also
include, but is not limited to, personal computers, portable
devices such as, for example, tablet computers, cellular phones,
smart phones, wearable computing devices such as smart watches
and/or smart bands (e.g. fitbit.RTM.), and/or other devices such as
game consoles and/or interactive or smart televisions. In one
embodiment, the user identification device 18 may also include one
or more sensors 20 that are coupled to the controller 48 for
detecting information indicative of a fitness activity being
performed by the user. The controller 48 may transmit the sensed
data to the computing device 16. For example, in one embodiment,
the user identification device 18 may include an accelerometer
and/or a position sensor for use in sensing a movement of the user
during performance of a fitness activity.
[0071] In one embodiment, the monitoring system 10 may also include
a display unit 54 that is coupled to the computing device 16, a
rechargeable battery pack 56 for providing power to the display
unit 54, sensors 20, and/or computing device 16, and a
communications device 58 that is configure to communicate with the
sensors 20, display unit 54, and/or user identification device 18
via wireless communication such as, for example, via Bluetooth.RTM.
wireless technology. The display unit 54 may include a user
interface device 52 and/or a display device 50 for use in
displaying the graphical interfaces.
[0072] In the illustrated embodiment, the computing device 16
includes a display module 60, a sensor module 62, an exercise
sequence module 64, a processor 66, a memory device 68, and a
database 70. The processor 66 is coupled in communication with the
memory device 68 for executing programmed instructions stored in
memory device 68 to control components of the computing device 16,
sensors 20, and/or user identification device 18. The processor 66
in particular executes programmed instructions to enable the system
10 to generate and store information indicative of exercise
programs being performed by a user and/or fitness activities
planned and performed by the user. Moreover, the memory device 68
stores and retrieves information in the database 70 including, but
not limited to, image data for producing images and/or screens on
the user identification device 18, and temporarily stores
variables, parameters, and the like that are used by the processor
66.
[0073] The database 70 contains information on a variety of
matters, such as, for example, patron records including information
associated with a plurality of patrons, unique patron
identification (ID) numbers associated with each patron record,
fitness activities, exercise device types, exercise sequences,
exercise values associated with exercise sequences. The exercise
values associated with each exercise sequence includes, but is not
limited to, a number of exercise sets, a number of exercise
repetitions included in each exercise set, time to complete each
exercise repetition, time between each repetition and/or tempo of
exercise repetitions, time to complete each set, time between each
set, range of motion, total effort, an average effort, a peak
concentric force, an average concentric force, a peak eccentric
force, and/or an average eccentric force.
[0074] The sensor module 62 communicates with each sensor 20 for
transmitting and receiving information from each sensor 20. For
example, each sensor 20 may transmit a signal corresponding to a
sensed fitness parameter of a fitness activity being preformed by
the user. Each sensor 20 may transmit a signal continuously,
periodically, or only once and/or any other signal timing that
enables computing device 16 to function as described herein.
Moreover, each sensor 20 may transmit a signal either in an analog
form or in a digital form.
[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the exercise sequence module
64 receives data indicative of a fitness activity being performed
by the user and generates a current exercise sequence as a function
of the received data. In addition, the exercise sequence module 64
may compare the current exercise sequence with a planned exercise
sequence associated with the patron and determine a condition
and/or quality of the patron's fitness activity based on the
current and planned exercise sequences. For example, in one
embodiment, the exercise sequence module 64 may determine the
condition of the patron exercise session to be less than a
predefined exercise session if the current exercise sequence is
different from the planned exercise sequence. In addition, the
exercise sequence module 64 may determine a plurality of exercise
values being associated with the current exercise session based on
the sensed data being received from the sensors. For example, in
one embodiment, the exercise sequence module 64 may determine
exercise values including, but not limited to, a number of exercise
sets performed, a number of exercise repetitions in each exercise
set, a time to complete each exercise repetition, a tempo of
exercise repetitions, a time to complete each set, a time between
each set, a range of motion during each repetition, a total effort,
an average effort, a peak concentric force, an average concentric
force, a peak eccentric force, and/or an average eccentric
force.
[0076] The display module 60 is configured to display various
images on the display device 50 and/or the display unit 54
preferably by using computer graphics and image data stored in the
database 70. In the illustrated embodiment, the display module 60
displays information indicative of a fitness activity being
performed by the patron including exercise sequence data being
generated by the exercise sequence module 64. In the illustrated
embodiment, the display module 60 generates and displays a
plurality of traces 72 that corresponding to data indicative of the
current exercise sequence 74 and the planned exercise sequences 76
(shown in FIGS. 9 and 10) determined by the exercise sequence
module 64. In addition, the display module 60 may generate and
display traces 72 corresponding to data indicative of a current
range of motion 78 and a planned range of motion 80 (shown in FIGS.
11 and 12) determined by the exercise sequence module 64. Moreover,
as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the display module 60 may display
information indicative of an exercise session including a type of
exercise being performed including associated exercise values 82,
and data indicative of the current exercise sequence 74 and the
planned exercise sequence 76 including associated exercise values
82 determined by the exercise sequence module 64.
[0077] In one embodiment, the system 10 may also include one or
more administrator workstations 84 that are connected to the
computing device 16 to enable an administrative user to access the
computing device 16 to transmit data indicative of the planned
fitness activities to the computing device 16. This enables an
administrative user such as, for example, a personal trainer and/or
gym manager, to periodically view and/or update information
included in a patron record including exercise sessions, planned
exercise sessions, and/or any suitable information.
[0078] In addition, in one embodiment, the computing device 16 may
transmit information to a secured web server 86 to provide
information related to a patron's fitness activity to a third
party, such as, for example, a health care professional and/or a
personal trainer.
[0079] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a method 200 that may be used with
the monitoring system 10 for monitoring a fitness activity of a
patron 12 performing an exercise with an exercise device 14. Each
method step may be performed independently of, or in combination
with, other method steps. Portions of the method 200 may be
performed by any one of, or any combination of, the components of
the system 10. FIGS. 7-12 are graphical displays of a fitness
activity that may be displayed with the monitoring system 10. In
the illustrated embodiment, graphical displays are presented via
the display device 50 and/or the display unit 54 (shown in FIGS. 1
and 2) and may receive input (e.g., selections and/or entries) via
the user identification device 18 and/or the display unit 54. FIGS.
13 and 14 are graphic illustrations of exercises that may be
performed by the patron 12 with the monitoring system 10.
[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, in method step 202, the
computing device 16 receives a request from a patron to initiate an
exercise session. In one embodiment, user identification device 18
may transmit a signal indicative of a unique patron ID to the
computing device 16 via a wireless communication link. The
computing device 16 may receive the patron ID and responsively
retrieve the corresponding patron record from the database 70. In
addition, the computing device 16 may receive a signal indicative
of a patron's use of an exercise device 14 and responsively
initiate an exercise session. For example, the computing device 16
may receive a signal indicative of a force being applied to the
exercise device 14 from a load sensor 28 and responsively initiate
an exercise session upon receiving the sensed load. In one
embodiment, the computing device 16 may display a login screen (not
shown) on the user identification device 18 and/or the display unit
54 to request the unique patron ID such as, for example, requesting
a username and/or password. In one embodiment, the unique patron ID
may also include a unique biometric signature (e.g. thumbprint,
DNA) and/or facial recognition.
[0081] In method step 204, the computing device 16 determines a
planned exercise sequence associated with the exercise session and
displays information indicative of the planned exercise sequence on
the display device 50 and/or the display unit 54. For example, the
computing device 16 may display a planned exercise session screen
88 (shown in FIG. 7) on the display device 50 including the
exercise values 82 associated with the planned exercise sequence
76. In the illustrated embodiment, the computing device 16
determines the planned exercise sequence as a function of the
retrieved patron record. In addition, the computing device 16 may
determine a plurality of plurality of exercise values associated
with the planned exercise sequence including, but not limited to, a
number of exercise sets included in the current session, a number
of exercise repetitions being included in each exercise set, a time
to complete each exercise repetition, a tempo of exercise
repetitions, a time to complete each set, and/or a time between
each set.
[0082] In one embodiment, the computing device 16 determines a type
of exercise device 14 being used by the patron 12 and selects a
corresponding planned exercise sequence from the patron record. For
example, in one embodiment, each exercise device 14 is associated
with a unique device ID. Moreover, each sensor 20 that is coupled
to an exercise device 14 may be configured to transmit a
corresponding unique device ID upon sensing an exercise being
performed using the corresponding exercise device 14. For example,
in one embodiment, upon sensing a load being applied by the patron
12 to the weight bench 24, the first load sensor 34 and/or the
second load sensor 36 may transmit a signal including an associated
unique device ID to the computing device 16. The computing device
16 may receive a unique device ID from the sensors 34 and 36,
determine an exercise device type being used by the patron as a
function of the received unique device ID, and determine the
planned exercise sequence as a function of the identified exercise
device type. For example, the computing device 16 may identify the
exercise device from a list of exercise device types contained in
the database 70 as a function of the received unique device ID.
[0083] In method step 206, the computing device 16 receives sensed
data indicative of an exercise sequence being performed by the
patron with the exercise device 14. For example, in one embodiment,
as the patron is performing an exercise using the weight bench 24,
the computing device 16 may receive data indicative of a load being
imparted on the exercise device 14 by the patron from the first and
second load sensors 34 and 36. In addition, the computing device 16
may also receive data indicative of a position of the patron's body
during the exercise. For example, as shown in FIG. 14, in one
embodiment, the computing device 16 may receive video images of the
patron's body from the video imaging device 38.
[0084] In method step 208, the computing device 16 determines a
current exercise sequence being performed by the patron 12 as a
function of the sensed data and displays information associated
with the current exercise sequence. For example, in one embodiment,
the computing device 16 may display fitness activity screens 90
(shown in FIGS. 8-12) that include information indicative of
exercise values 82 associated with the current exercise sequence
74. Moreover, the computing device 16 may generate and display
traces 72 corresponding to data indicative to the current exercise
sequence 74 and the planned exercise sequences 76.
[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the computing device 16
determines a plurality of exercise values associated with the
current exercise session as a function of the sensed data. The
exercise values may include, but are not limited to, a number of
exercise sets included in the current session, a number of exercise
repetitions being included in each exercise set, a time to complete
each exercise repetition, a tempo of exercise repetitions, a time
to complete each set, and a time between each set, a total effort,
an average effort, a peak concentric force, an average concentric
force, a peak eccentric force, and an average eccentric force.
[0086] For example, referring to FIGS. 9 and 13, in one embodiment,
the computing device 16 may determine that the patron is using the
weight bench 24 to perform an exercise and retrieves a planned
exercise sequence 76 from the corresponding patron record. The
computing device 16 may also determine the planned exercise
sequence to include a bench press exercise session including 4 sets
of 6 repetitions. Each repetition including the lowering and
raising of a weight bar by the patron. During the exercise session
using the weight bench 24, the computing device 16 may receive
sensed data including a force being applied to the exercise device
14 from the first and second load sensors 34 and 36. As the patron
places weights on the weight rack 32, the computing device 16
senses and determines an amount of weight that will be lifted by
the patron during the exercise based on the data received from the
second load sensor 36. In addition, as the patron lifts the weight
from the weight rack 32 to a first position 40 (shown in FIG. 13),
the computing device 16 receives sensed data from the first load
sensor 34 indicative of the full weight of the weights and patron
being applied to the bench 30 and determines a maximum load 92 that
is indicative of the patron being in the first position 40. As the
patron lowers the weight towards the bench to a second position 44,
the force being applied to the bench 30 is reduced. The computing
device 16 senses a change in the force being applied to the bench
30, and determines a minimum load 94 that is indicative of the
patron moving toward the second position 44. As the patron raises
the weight to the first position 40, the force applied to the bench
30 increases towards the maximum load 92. As the patron 12 conducts
a second repetition and moves towards the second position 44, the
force applied to the weight bench 24 reduces, and the computing
device 16 determines that the patron has completed a repetition 96
of the exercise. When the patron returns the weights to the weight
rack 32, the computing device 16 receives a signal from the second
load sensor 36 and determines that the patron has completed a set
98 of the exercise.
[0087] During the exercise session, the computing device 16
determines a number of repetitions 96 being performed by the patron
as a function of the number of maximum and minimum loads detected
by the sensors 20. In addition, the computing device 16 may
determine a time to complete each repetition 96 and/or each set 98
as a function of the period of time between each sensed maximum
load 92 and/or minimum load 94.
[0088] In one embodiment, the computing device 16 may determine a
range of motion 78 being associated with the current exercise
sequence and display the trace 72 including the determined range of
motion 78. For example, referring to FIGS. 11 and 14, during an
exercise, the computing device 16 may receive information from the
video imaging device 38 that is indicative of the first position 40
including a first height 42 of the patron 12 in the first position
40. As the patron 12 moves from the first position 40 to the second
position 44, the video imaging device 38 may transmit information
indicative of a change in height from the first height 42 to a
second height 46 of the patron 12 in the second position 44.
Moreover, the computing device 16 may determine a range of motion
78 associated with the repetition 96 as a function of the sensed
heights 42 and 46.
[0089] In method step 210, the computing device 16 determines a
fitness activity of the patron as a function of the current
exercise sequence and the planned exercise sequence. For example,
in one embodiment, the computing device 16 may determine a
condition of the patron exercise session as a function of the
planned exercise sequence 76 and the current exercise sequence 74.
Moreover, the computing device may determine the condition of the
patron exercise session to be less than a predefined exercise
session if the current exercise sequence is different from the
planned exercise sequence, and responsively display a notification
message on the display device. For example, in one embodiment, the
planned exercise sequence may include a plurality of sets with each
set including a predefined number of repetitions to be performed
with a predefined period of time. The computing device 16 may
compare the number of repetitions and the time to complete the set
included with the current exercise sequence 74 and determine a
level of fitness activity as a function of the differences between
the number of repetitions performed with the current exercise
sequence and the number of repetitions included in the planned
exercise sequence.
[0090] In addition, the computing device 16 may calculate a total
effort 100 associated with the fitness activity as a function of
the current and the planned exercise sequences. For example, in one
embodiment, the computing device 16 may calculate the percentage of
planned repetitions being performed, a percentage of planned sets,
a percentage of planned weight being lifted, and/or a percentage of
planned duration of an exercise being performed by the patron and
calculate the total effort 100 associated with the current exercise
session as a function of the calculated percentages.
[0091] In method step 212, the computing device 16 generates a
modified exercise sequence as a function of the current exercise
sequence and the planned exercise sequence and stores the modified
exercise sequence in the database for use during a subsequent
exercise session initiated by the associated patron. For example,
if the current exercise sequence includes 80% of the weight
included in the planned exercise sequence, the computing device 16
may generate a modified exercise sequence that includes less weight
and/or fewer repetitions than the previous planned exercise
sequence.
[0092] The system 10 may also receive signals indicative of the
position and/or the weight distribution of the patron and determine
a spinal alignment and posture to indicate the body position is
correct for the exercise being performed on the exercise device 14.
For example, the computing device 16 may receive signals from the
sensor pad 23 that are indicative of a weight distribution of the
patron during an exercise. The system 10 may also receive
motion-capture video images from the video imaging device 38 for
use in determining if the patron's body is off balance, leaning,
etc. Moreover, the system 10 may detect any unusual shift in weight
with free weights used on the exercise device 14 while exercise
device 14 and person are interacting and will display an alert
massage on the user identification device 18, workstation 84,
and/or display 54 to provide a notification that the athlete/patron
may be in distress (especially necessary for unmanned workout
facilities). Moreover, the system 10 may detect abnormal shifts in
equipment being monitored and may also send alert messages to
indicate potentially faulty equipment (safety feature).
[0093] While exemplary systems and methods in accordance with the
invention have been described herein and in the accompanying
materials, it should also be understood that the foregoing along
with the accompanying materials are illustrative of a few
particular embodiments as well as principles of the invention, and
that various modifications can be made by those skilled in the art
without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention.
Therefore, the described embodiments should not be considered as
limiting of the invention in any way. Accordingly, the invention
embraces alternatives, modifications and variations which fall
within the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the
embodiments provided herein, and including equivalents thereto.
[0094] Although specific features of various embodiments of the
invention may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is
for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the
invention, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or
claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.
* * * * *