SMART BOX DEVICE

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This patent application claims the benefit of and priority to India Provisional App. No. 202111033274 filed Jul. 23, 2021, titled “SMART BOX DEVICE,” which is incorporated in the present disclosure by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

The embodiments discussed in the present disclosure are related to a smart box device.

BACKGROUND

Unless otherwise indicated herein, the materials described herein are not prior art to the claims in the present application and are not admitted to be prior art by inclusion in this section.

Boxes and steps are common pieces of equipment used in conjunction with workouts and other various forms of exercise. Aerobic steppers may include a small ground clearance, such as similar in height to steps in a staircase and may be used as exercise equipment to replicate stepping up and down stairs. Plyometric boxes may be taller than aerobic steppers and may be used in higher intensity training, such as including jumping up and down from the plyometric boxes. Plyometric boxes often include a large footprint in addition to height which may contribute to the stability thereof, as stability is an important safety feature with a user jumping on and off the plyometric box. Additionally, the plyometric boxes may include different heights which may also contribute to the intensity of the exercise.

A user seeking to benefit from both the aerobic stepper and the plyometric boxes often acquire many pieces of equipment. Varying the intensity and/or difficulty of a workout using plyometric boxes may include varying the height of the plyometric boxes, which may entail having access to many plyometric boxes. Owning and storing many plyometric boxes and aerobic steppers may occupy large amounts of space and/or may include significant costs to procure.

The subject matter claimed in the present disclosure is not limited to embodiments that solve any disadvantages or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described in the present disclosure may be practiced.

SUMMARY

A smart box system may include a smart box device. The smart box device may include a top portion, elongated side portions, and side portions. The top portion may include a top set of locking elements configured to mate with an external device to prevent the external device from moving relative the top portion of the smart box device. The elongated side portions may attach to the top portion. The side portions may selectively attach to distal ends of the elongated side portions.

The objects and advantages of the embodiments will be realized and achieved at least by the elements, features, and combinations particularly pointed out in the claims.

Both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are given as examples and are explanatory and are not restrictive of the invention, as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example smart box device;

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of two smart box devices arranged in an example smart box system;

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of two smart box devices arranged in another example smart box system;

FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of two smart box devices arranged in another example smart box system;

FIG. 2D illustrates a perspective view of six smart box devices arranged in another example smart box system;

FIG. 2E illustrates a perspective view of two smart box devices arranged in another example smart box system;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an example locking handle;

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example adjustable bench;

FIG. 5A illustrates a perspective view of an example smart box system including an adjustable bench;

FIG. 5B illustrates a perspective view of the smart system including an adjustable bench in a raised configuration;

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the smart box device with an exemplary top layer;

FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of an example sensing system of a smart box device; and

FIG. 8 illustrates an example computer system that may be used with a smart box device.

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Exercise is a beneficial activity that may improve physical and mental health, among other benefits. Exercising with steps and/or elevated boxes may provide aerobic exercises, plyometric exercises, and/or other types of exercise directed at improving health of a user. In some circumstances, acquiring a variety of boxes and/or platform like objects to be used in various exercises may be costly and may require large amounts of space to maintain the various boxes.

Boxes and steps are common pieces of equipment used in conjunction with workouts and other various forms of exercise. Aerobic steppers may include a small ground clearance, such as similar in height to steps in a staircase and may be used as exercise equipment to replicate stepping up and down stairs. Plyometric boxes may be taller than aerobic steppers and may be used in higher intensity training, such as including jumping up and down from the plyometric boxes. Plyometric boxes often include a large footprint in addition to a height which may contribute to the stability thereof, as stability is an important safety feature with a user jumping on and off the plyometric box. Additionally, the plyometric boxes may include different heights which may also contribute to the intensity of the exercise.

According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a smart box system may include one or more smart box devices in which each smart box device of the smart box system may join with other smart box devices. As such, the number of smart box devices included in the smart box system may vary and may change. In these or other embodiments, the smart box system may include one or more smart box devices arranged such that a variety of heights to a top surface of the smart box devices may be accomplished. For example, a single smart box device may operate as an aerobic step, whereas two or three smart box devices in a stacked configuration may provide a taller platform for plyometric exercises.

In some circumstances, a smart box device and/or a smart box system may provide the user many different height options for use during exercise. Further, the smart box device may improve an exercise experience of the user and may contribute to safer conditions while exercising. For example, a sensing system of the smart box device may detect an imbalance in the smart box device and/or interactions of the user with the smart box device. Alternatively or additionally, the sensing system of the smart box device may monitor a form of the user to help prevent injury and improve benefits from use of the smart box device. Further, the smart box system may contribute to reducing an amount of space that may be used to house exercise equipment by providing multiple smart box devices that accomplish the tasks of multiple alternative pieces of equipment.

These and other embodiments of the present disclosure will be explained with reference to the accompanying figures. It is to be understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of such example embodiments, and are not limiting, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale. In the figures, features with like numbers indicate like structure and function unless described otherwise.

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an example smart box device 100, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. The smart box device 100 may include a frame 102, frame mounts 104, a top portion 110, a top set of locking elements 112, and a bottom portion 114. The smart box device 100 further includes multiple panels including elongated side portions 120, side portions 130, a first set of locking elements 140, and a second set of locking elements 142. The elongated side portions 120 may define a first set of recesses 101. The side portions 130 may define a second set of recesses 103. FIG. 1 illustrates the smart box device 100 in a deployed configuration.

The smart box device 100 may transition between a deployed configuration and a stored configuration. The elongated side portions 120 may transition between the stored configuration and the deployed configuration. The side portions 130 may selectively attach to distal ends of the elongated side portions 120 in the deployed configuration. In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 may attach to the top portion 110, the frame 102, or some combination thereof via offset hinges. In these and other embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 may include one or more latching features (not illustrated in FIG. 1) attached to the bottom portion 114. The latching features may selectively attach to a different portion of the smart box device 100 to cause the elongated side portions 120 to remain in the stored configuration.

In some embodiments, the frame 102 of the smart box device 100 may include a cuboidal shape. For example, the frame 102 may be arranged such that the frame 102 is elongated along a first axis 107 (e.g., from left to right when facing the elongated side portions 120), shorter along a second axis 109 orthogonal to the first axis 107 (e.g., from left to right when facing the side portions 130), and shorter along a third axis 111 that is orthogonal to the first axis 107 and the second axis 109 (e.g., from top to bottom when facing either the elongated side portions 120 or the side portions 130).

In some embodiments, the frame 102 may be load bearing, such that the smart box device 100 may support users having various weights stepping, jumping, etc., thereon. For example, the frame 102 may include metal, plastic, wood, composite components, and/or other sturdy and/or durable materials. In some embodiments, the frame 102 may include non-square external edges. For example, the external edges of the frame 102 may be rounded, tapered, chamfered, beveled, and/or other non-square variations, which may contribute to a lesser likelihood of a user becoming injured from the edges of the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the frame 102 may interface with the top portion 110, the bottom portion 114, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130. The frame 102 may include a cuboidal frame (e.g., including openings on all sides) that the top portion 110, the bottom portion 114, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may affix to the frame 102 with mechanical fasteners. Alternatively or additionally, the frame 102 may include recessed portions on the sides thereof, such that the top portion 110, the bottom portion 114, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may be disposed adjacent to raised edges of the frame 102 and supported on an interior side by the recessed portion of the frame 102 and/or affixed to the recessed portions with mechanical fasteners. Alternatively or additionally, the top portion 110, the bottom portion 114, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may be welded to the frame 102.

In some embodiments, some or all of the top portion 110, the bottom portion 114, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may be flush with the frame 102 and/or with the other sides of the smart box device 100. For example, the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may be flush with the frame 102 on the top portion 110 and the bottom portion 114 thereof, such that the elongated side portions 120, and/or the side portions 130 may contact the surface the smart box device 100 is located on and may provide structural support thereto. The elongated side portions 120 may attach to the top portion 110.

In some embodiments, the frame 102 may include the frame mounts 104 disposed therein. For example, the frame 102 may define one or more semicircular cut-outs and may include metal rods disposed within the semicircular cut-outs that comprise the frame mounts 104. In some embodiments, the frame mounts 104 may be located on an upper portion of the frame 102 above the side portions 130 relative the third axis 111. Alternatively or additionally, the frame mounts 104 may be located on an upper portion of the frame 102 above the elongated side portions 120 relative the second axis 109. In some embodiments, the frame mounts 104 may be sized and/or shaped to receive a carabiner. Alternatively or additionally, the frame mounts 104 may be sized and/or shaped to receive resistance bands looped therethrough, such that the resistance bands may be fastened to the smart box device 100 via the frame mounts 104.

In some embodiments, the top portion 110 may attach to the frame 102 and be a superior surface of the smart box device 100. For example, the top portion 110 may be parallel to the surface the smart box device 100 is on and may be arranged such that the top portion 110 is the surface the user contacts during use of the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 114 may attach to the frame 102 and be an inferior surface of the smart box device 100. For example, the bottom portion 114 may be parallel to and/or in contact with the surface the smart box device 100 is physically positioned on and may be located opposite the top portion 110 on the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the bottom portion 114 may include materials configured to be non-slip when in contact with another surface. For example, the weight of the smart box device 100 in conjunction with the non-slip materials may contribute to the smart box device 100 not slipping and/or sliding when in use. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 114 may include elastomer and/or polymer materials. The elastomer and/or polymer materials may provide traction to the smart box device 100 when in contact with another surface.

In some embodiments, the top set of locking elements 112 may include one or more projections that may be disposed on the top portion 110 of the smart box device 100. In some embodiments, the top set of locking elements 112 may be disposed near or on the ends of the top portion 110. Alternatively or additionally, the top set of locking elements 112 may be disposed at any location on the top portion 110. In some embodiments, the bottom portion 114 may define recesses (e.g., receptacles) that are complementary and/or opposition the projections of the top set of locking elements 112. For example, a projection of the top set of locking elements 112 may be sized and shaped to be received into a recess defined by the bottom portion 114 of another smart box device such that the another smart box device may be stacked on the smart box device 100 relative the third axis 111.

In some embodiments, the top set of locking elements 112 may include one or more fastening mechanisms that may retain the connection between the top set of locking elements 112 and the recesses. For example, the fastening mechanisms of the top set of locking elements 112 may include one or more magnets, locking pins, toggle clasps, spring loaded pins, and the like.

In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 and the side portions 130 may be arranged on the sides of the smart box device 100 and attached to the frame 102. In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 may be opposite one another and orthogonal to the side portions 130, which may be opposite one another on the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the side portions 130 may define one or more handles 132. For example, the handles 132 may include cutouts in the side portions 130 such that the smart box device 100 may be more easily lifted, handled, and/or manipulated by providing a grabbing location to a user. In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 may define one or more handles 113. The handles 113 may be disposed in various locations in the elongated side portions 120. The handles 113 may be in the alternative or in addition to the handles 132. The handles 113 and 132 may permit a user to place a body part (e.g., a foot) between multiple smart box devices to aid in separating smart box devices from one another.

In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120 may include the first set of locking elements 140 disposed thereon. The elongated side portions 120 may be complementary with one another (e.g., may be the same or similar as each other) such that the first set of locking elements 140 and the first set of recesses 101 align when elongated side portions 120 are adjacent to one another (e.g., such as when the elongated side portions 120 of multiple smart box devices are adjacent to one another). For example, the first set of locking elements 140 may be disposed on the elongated side portions 120 such that the first set of locking elements 140 align with a corresponding first set of recesses 101 when the elongated side portions 120 are adjacent to another elongated side portion.

The first set of recesses 101 may be defined to be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the first set of locking elements 140 of another smart box device. The first set of recesses 101 may receive the first set of locking elements 140 of another smart box device. The first set of locking elements 140 may be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the first set of recesses 101 of another smart box device. The first set of locking elements 140 may mate with the first set of recesses 101 of another smart box device.

In some embodiments, the side portions 130 may include the second set of locking elements 142 disposed thereon. The side portions 130 may be complementary with one another (e.g., may be the same or similar as each other) such that the second set of locking elements 140 and the second set of locking elements 142 align when side portions 130 are adjacent to one another (e.g., such as when the side portions 130 of multiple smart box devices are adjacent to one another). For example, the second set of locking elements 142 may be disposed on the side portions 130 such that the second set of locking elements 142 align with a corresponding second set of recesses 103 when the side portions 130 are adjacent to another side portion.

The second set of recesses 103 may be defined to be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the second set of locking elements 142 of another smart box device. The second set of recesses 103 may receive the second set of locking elements 142 of another smart box device. The second set of locking elements 142 may be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the second set of recesses 103 of another smart box device. The second set of locking elements 142 may mate with the second set of recesses 103 of another smart box device.

The top set of locking elements 112 may be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the recesses defined by the bottom portion of another smart box device. The recesses defined by the bottom portion of the other smart box device may receive the top set of locking elements 112 to prevent the other smart box device from moving relative to the smart box device 100.

The first set of recesses 101 may be defined to be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the second set of locking elements 142 of another smart box device. At least a portion of the first set of recesses 101 may receive the second set of locking elements 142. The first set of locking elements 140 may be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the second set of recesses 103 of another smart box device. The first set of locking elements 140 may mate with the second set of recesses 103 of another smart box device.

In some embodiments, the first set of recesses 101, the second set of recesses 103, or some combination thereof may receive fastening mechanisms (not illustrated in FIG. 1) to retain a connection between smart box devices 100. The fastening mechanisms associated with the first set of locking elements 140 and/or the second set of locking elements 142 may include one or more magnets, locking pins, toggle clasps, spring loaded pins, and the like.

In some embodiments, the first set of locking elements 140, the second set of locking elements 142, or some combination thereof may include one or more cylindrical or cuboidal structures that may interface with a corresponding recess of the first set of recesses 101 or the second set of recesses 103. The cylindrical or cuboidal structures of the first set of locking elements 140 and the second set of locking elements 142 may restrict the smart box device 100 from moving (e.g., sliding) relative to another smart box device.

In some embodiments, the first set of locking elements 140, the second set of locking elements 142, or some combination thereof may include magnets disposed therein such that the combination of the interfacing structures (e.g., the cylindrical or cuboidal projections and the cylindrical depressions or cuboidal) and the magnets improve engagement between and restriction of movement between the smart box devices.

FIG. 2A illustrates a perspective view of a first smart box device 100a and a second smart box device 100b, arranged in an example smart box system 150, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be analogous to the smart box device 100 of FIG. 1 and may include some or all of the elements and/or features described relative to the smart box device 100. FIG. 2A illustrates the smart box system 150 in a vertical configuration.

In some embodiments, the top portion 110b may interface with the bottom portion 114a of the first smart box device 100a (e.g., external device) such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b form the smart box system 150. For example, as described in association with FIG. 1, the top set of locking elements 112b (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) of the second smart box device 100b may be sized, shaped, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to interface with recesses (not illustrated in FIG. 2A) defined by the bottom portion 114a of the first smart box device 100a. Alternatively or additionally, the top set of locking elements 112b, the bottom portion 114a (proximate the set of recesses defined by the bottom portion 114a) may include magnets disposed therein such that the attachment between the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be improved over an attachment by the interfacing of the projections and receptacles without magnets.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 150 may be vertically stacked (e.g., arranged) such that the sides of the first smart box device 100a may be flush with the corresponding sides of the second smart box device 100b. For example, the elongated side portion 120a may be flush with the elongated side portion 120b and/or the side portion 130a of the first smart box device 100a may be flush with the side portion 130b of the second smart box device 100b. In some embodiments, multiple smart box devices may be stacked such that for each smart box device stacked on another smart box device, a top portion of a lower smart box device may interface with a bottom portion of an upper smart box device.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 160 may include locking handles 144a-d. The locking handles 144a-d may attach to portions of the first set of recesses 101a,b, the first set of locking elements 140a,b, or some combination thereof in instances in which the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b are arranged such that the bottom portion 114a is adjacent to the top portion 110b as illustrated in FIG. 2A. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-d may contribute to the alignment and/or retainment of the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b, which may be in the alternative to or in addition to the top set of locking elements 112, the recesses defined by the bottom portion 114a, and/or the fastening mechanisms as described above.

In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-d may be used to provide a location for the user to hold and/or manipulate the smart box system 150. For example, the locking handles 144a-d may be held by the user to drag and/or move the smart box system 150. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-d may be used in the alternative to or in addition to the handles 113a,b and 132a,b. An example locking handle 144 is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG. 3.

FIG. 2B illustrates a perspective view of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b, arranged in an example smart box system 160, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be analogous to the smart box device 100 of FIG. 1 and may include some or all of the elements and/or features described relative to the smart box device 100. FIG. 2B illustrates the smart box system 160 in an elongated configuration.

In some embodiments, a side portion 130a of the first smart box device 100a may interface with a side portion 130b of the second smart box device 100b (e.g., external device) such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b form the smart box system 160. For example, as described in association with FIG. 1, a portion of the second set of recesses 103a,b (not illustrated in FIG. 2B) of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may receive a corresponding portion of the second set of locking elements 142a,b (not illustrated in FIG. 2B). The portion of the second set of recesses 103a,b, the portion of the second set of locking elements 142a,b, or some combination thereof may align and/or retain the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b. Alternatively or additionally, the second set of locking elements 142a,b and the side portions 130a,b (e.g., proximate the second set of recesses 103a,b) may include magnets disposed therein such that the attachment between the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be improved over an attachment by the interfacing of the projections and receptacles without magnets. Alternatively or additionally, fastening mechanisms may be disposed within the second set of recesses 103a,b such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be retained together.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 160 may include the locking handles 144a,b. The locking handles 144a,b may attach to portions of the first set of recesses 101a,b, portions of the first set of locking elements 140a,b, or some combination thereof in instances in which the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b are arranged such that side portions 130a,b are adjacent to one another as illustrated in FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may contribute to the alignment and/or retainment of the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b, which may be in the alternative to or in addition to the second set of recesses 103a,b, the second set of locking elements 142a,b, and/or the fastening mechanisms as described above.

In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may be used to provide a location for the user to hold and/or manipulate the smart box system 160. For example, the locking handles 144a,b may be held by the user to drag and/or move the smart box system 160. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may be used in the alternative to or in addition to the handles 113a,b and 132a,b. An example of the locking handles 144a,b is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG. 3.

FIG. 2C illustrates a perspective view of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b, arranged in an example smart box system 170. In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be analogous to the smart box device 100 of FIG. 1 and may include some or all of the elements and/or features described relative to the smart box device 100. FIG. 2C illustrates the smart box system 170 in a horizontal configuration.

In some embodiments, the elongated side portions 120a of the first smart box device 100a may interface with the elongated side portions 120b of the second smart box device 100b (e.g., external device) such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b form the smart box system 170. For example, as described in association with FIG. 1, a portion of the first set of recesses 101a,b (not illustrated in FIG. 2C) of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may receive a corresponding portion of the first set of locking elements 140a,b (not illustrated in FIG. 2C). The first set of recesses 101a,b, the first set of locking elements 140a,b, or some combination thereof may align and/or retain the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b. Alternatively or additionally, the first set of locking elements 140a,b and the elongated side portions 120a,b (e.g., proximate the first set of recesses 101a,b) may include magnets disposed therein such that the attachment between the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be improved over an attachment by the interfacing of the projections and receptacles without magnets. Alternatively or additionally, fastening mechanisms may be disposed within the first set of recesses 101a,b such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be retained together.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 170 may include locking handles 144a,b. The locking handles 144a,b may attach to portions of the second set of recesses 103a,b, portions of the second set of locking elements 142a,b, or some combination thereof in instances in which the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b are arranged such that elongated side portions 120a,b are adjacent to one another as illustrated in FIG. 2C. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may contribute to the alignment and/or retainment of the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b, which may be in the alternative to or in addition to the first set of recesses 101a,b, the first set of locking elements 140a,b, and/or the fastening mechanisms as described above.

In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may be used to provide a location for the user to hold and/or manipulate the smart box system 170. For example, the locking handles 144a,b may be held by the user to drag and/or move the smart box system 170. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a,b may be used in the alternative to or in addition to the handles 113a,b and 132a,b. An example locking handles 144a,b is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG. 3.

FIG. 2D illustrates a perspective view of the first smart box device 100a, the second smart box device 100b, a third smart box device 100c, a fourth smart box device 100d, a fifth smart box device 100e, and a sixth smart box device 100f, arranged in an example smart box system 180, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a, the second smart box device 100b, the third smart box device 100c, the fourth smart box device 100d, the fifth smart box device 100e, and the sixth smart box device 100f may be analogous to the smart box device 100 of FIG. 1, and may include some or all of the elements and/or features described relative to the smart box device 100. The smart box system 180 illustrates a potential combination of the arrangements of smart box devices as shown in the smart box system 150 and the smart box system 170. FIG. 2D illustrates the smart box system 180 in a multiple box configuration.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 180 may include one or more smart box devices arranged such that some of the smart box devices (e.g., the first smart box device 100a, the second smart box device 100b, the fourth smart box device 100d, and the fifth smart box device 100e) are vertically stacked (e.g., arranged) on another smart box device (e.g., an external device, such as described above in relation to the smart box system 150 of FIG. 2A. For example, the first smart box device 100a may be vertically arranged on the second smart box device 100b, which may be vertically arranged on the third smart box device 100c. As another example, the fourth smart box device 100d may be vertically arranged on the fifth smart box device 100e, which may be vertically arranged on the sixth smart box device 100f.

Alternatively or additionally, the smart box system 180 may include one or more smart box devices arranged such that the elongated side portions 120 of the smart box devices may align, such as described relative to the smart box system 170 of FIG. 2C. For example, the first smart box device 100a may be aligned with the fourth smart box device 100d along elongated side portions 120a,d, the second smart box device 100b may be aligned with the fifth smart box device 100e along elongated side portions 120b,d, and/or the third smart box device 100c may be aligned with the sixth smart box device 100f along elongated side portions 120c,f.

The smart box system 180 may include the locking handles 144a-f. The locking handles 144a-f may attach to portions of the first set of recesses 101a-f, portions of the first set of locking elements 140a-f, or some combination thereof in instances in which the smart box devices 100a-f are arranged adjacent to one another as illustrated in FIG. 2D. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-f may contribute to the alignment and/or retainment of the smart box devices 100a-f relative to each other, which may be in the alternative to or in addition to the second set of recesses 103a-f, the second set of locking elements 142a-f, and/or the fastening mechanisms as described above. For example, as illustrated, the first smart box device 100a may be aligned and arranged with the fourth smart box device 100d using the locking handle 144a and with the second smart box device 100b using the locking handle 144b. As another example, the fifth smart box device 100e may be aligned and arranged with the fourth smart box device 100d using the locking handle 144f and with the sixth smart box device 100f using the locking handle 144e.

In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-f may be used to provide a location for the user to hold and/or manipulate the smart box system 180. For example, the locking handles 144a-f may be held by the user to drag and/or move the smart box system 180. In some embodiments, the locking handles 144a-f may be used in the alternative to or in addition to the handles 113a-f and 132a-f. An example of the locking handles 144a,b is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG. 3.

It will be appreciated that the various arrangements of the smart box systems (e.g., the smart box system 150, the smart box system 160, the smart box system 170, and the smart box system 180) are only examples of the possible configurations of smart box devices. For example, the smart box devices may be arranged in any configuration such that complementary sides are arranged such that they align and/or tops and bottoms are arranged such that they are stacked.

FIG. 2E illustrates a perspective view of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b, arranged in an example smart box system 190, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be analogous to the smart box device 100 of FIG. 1 and may include some or all of the elements and/or features described relative to the smart box device 100. FIG. 2E illustrates the smart box system 190 in a perpendicular configuration.

In some embodiments, a side portion 130a of the first smart box device 100a may interface with an elongated side portion 120b of the second smart box device 100b (e.g., an external device) such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b form the smart box system 190. For example, as described in association with FIG. 1, a portion of the second set of recesses 103a (not illustrated in FIG. 2B) of the first smart box device may receive a corresponding portion of the first set of locking elements 142b (not illustrated in FIG. 2B) of the second smart box device 100b. The portion of the second set of recesses 103a, the portion of the second set of locking elements 142b, or some combination thereof may align and/or retain the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b. Alternatively or additionally, the second set of locking elements 142a,b, the side portions 130a,b (e.g., proximate the second set of recesses 103a,b), the elongated side portions 120a,b (e.g., proximate the first set of recesses 101a,b) may include magnets disposed therein such that the attachment between the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be improved over an attachment by the interfacing of the projections and receptacles without magnets. Alternatively or additionally, fastening mechanisms may be disposed within the second set of recesses 103a such that the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be retained together.

In some embodiments, the smart box system 190 may include the locking handle 144. The locking handle 144 may attach to portions of the first set of locking elements 140a, a portion of the second set of recesses 103b, or some combination thereof in instances in which the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b are arranged such that a side portion 130a is adjacent to an elongated side portion 120b as illustrated in FIG. 2E. In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may contribute to the alignment and/or retainment of the first smart box device 100a relative to the second smart box device 100b, which may be in the alternative to or in addition to the first set of locking elements 140b, the first set of recesses 101a, the second set of recesses 103a, the second set of locking elements 142a, and/or the fastening mechanisms as described above.

In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may be used to provide a location for the user to hold and/or manipulate the smart box system 190. For example, the locking handle 144 may be held by the user to drag and/or move the smart box system 190. In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may be used in the alternative to or in addition to the handles 113a,b and 132a,b. An example of the locking handle 144 is discussed in more detail below in relation to FIG. 3.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of an example locking handle 144, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. The locking handle 144 may include a handle portion 315 and a handle locking element 307. The handle portion 315 may define a handle recess 305.

In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may attach to one or more smart box devices, such as the smart box devices 100a-f of the smart box systems 150-190 of FIGS. 2A-2E. In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may attach to the smart box devices 100a-f to prevent the smart box devices from separating. For example, in instances in which side portions 130a,b of the smart box devices 100a-f are physically positioned adjacent to each other, the locking handle 144 may attach to the elongated side portion 120a of the first smart box device 100a and the elongated side portion 120b of the second smart box device 100b. For example, the handle recess 305 may receive a protrusion of the first set of locking elements 140a and a recess of the first set of recesses 101b may receive the handle locking element 307. Alternatively or additionally, in instances in which elongated side portions 120a,b of the smart box devices 100a,b are adjacent to each other, the locking handle 144 may attach to the side portion 130a of the first smart box device 100a and the side portion 130b of the second smart box device 100b. For example, the handle recess 305 may receive a protrusion of the second set of locking elements 142a and a recess of the second set of recesses 101b may receive the handle locking element 307.

In some embodiments, the handle portion 315 may be sized and shaped such that the handle portion 315 and/or the locking handle 144 may be easily held and/or manipulated by a user. For example, the handle portion 315 may be sized such that it may accommodate a wide range of sizes of human hands. As another example, the handle portion 315 may define grip openings 309a,b to receive a portion of a hand of the user. In some embodiments, the handle portion 315 may include metal, plastic, wood, composite components, and/or other sturdy and/or durable materials.

In some embodiments, the locking handle 144 may include a first attachment mechanism 311 and a second attachment mechanism 313. The first attachment mechanism 311 and the second attachment mechanism 313 may attach to portions of the smart box devices 100a-f. In some embodiments the first attachment mechanism 311 and the second attachment mechanism 313 may include positive and negative features similar to the locating cuboids. The first attachment mechanism 311 and the second attachment mechanism 313 may also contain magnets and metal for latching the attachment to the respective smart box devices 100a-f. In some embodiments, the first attachment mechanism 311 and the second attachment mechanism 313 may include materials that may be hardened and/or durable, such as plastic and/or composite components. The first attachment mechanism 311 and the second attachment mechanism 313 may permit spontaneously latching to the magnets between two smart box device 100a-f so as to stop any relative motion between the smart box devices 100a-f.

FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of an example adjustable bench 300, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 (e.g., external device) may include a bench top portion 310, a support arm 320, and a ratcheting portion 330. The bench top portion 310 may include a pivot end 312 and an adjustable end 314.

In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 may include materials configured to support heavy loads that may be employed during weightlifting exercises. For example, the adjustable bench 300 may include metal, plastic, wood, composite components, and/or other sturdy and/or durable materials.

In some embodiments, the pivot end 312 of the bench top portion 310 may include a pivot joint 413 that may attach the bench top portion 310 to the ratcheting portion 330. In some embodiments, the pivot joint 413 may maintain attachment between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330 while permitting the adjustable end 314 to vary in distance relative to the ratcheting portion 330. For example, the adjustable end 314 may be raised and/or lowered relative to the ratcheting portion 330 while the pivot end 312 may remain coupled to the ratcheting portion 330. In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 may be inclined above the ratcheting portion 330 such that the adjustable bench 300 may be used as an inclined bench.

In some embodiments, the bench top portion 310 may include a cushioned surface that may form a superior surface of the bench top portion 310. The cushioned surface may be opposite an inferior surface, which may be oriented toward the ratcheting portion 330, and the cushioned surface may be contacted by a user while using the adjustable bench 300. For example, in a closed position, the adjustable bench 300 may be substantially flat such that the user may lie on the cushioned surface while the user performs a bench press exercises.

In some embodiments, the cushioned surface of the bench top portion 310 may include liquid-resistant materials. The liquid-resistant materials of the bench top portion 310 may resist and/or prevent water and/or other liquids from damaging the bench top portion 310 of the adjustable bench 300. For example, the bench top portion 310 may include liquid-resistant materials that may reduce and/or prevent degradation from sweat, rain, spilled liquids, and the like.

In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may attach to the top portion 110 of smart box device 100. For example, the ratcheting portion 330 may attach to the superior surface of the top portion 110. Alternatively or additionally, the ratcheting portion 330 may attach to multiple smart box devices that may be coupled together, such as the smart box system 160 of FIG. 2B. The ratcheting portion 330 may define ratchet recesses 471. The ratchet recesses may receive the top set of locking elements 112 to prevent the adjustable bench from moving relative to the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may attach to the superior surface of the top portion 110 of the smart box device 100 and/or to an upper portion of the frame 102 of the smart box device 100. For example, the ratcheting portion 330 may include mechanical fasteners that may couple with the top portion 110 and/or the frame 102 of the smart box device 100. In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may interface with locking portions disposed on the top portion 110 of the smart box device 100, such as the top set of locking elements 112.

In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may include two or more parallel components 415 that may attach to the bench top portion 310. In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may include multiple locking positions, which may be complementarily disposed in the parallel components 415. For example, multiple recesses 417 may be disposed in the ratcheting portion 330 with complementary recesses being arranged opposite one another in the parallel components 415.

In some embodiments, the multiple recesses 417, in conjunction with the support arm 320, may secure the bench top portion 310 at different angles of inclination. For example, coupling the support arm 320 to a first set of complementary recesses may produce a first angle of inclination between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330, while coupling the support arm 320 to a second set of complementary recesses may produce a second angle of inclination between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330. In instances in which the support arm 320 is not coupled to the multiple recesses 417, the bench top portion 310 may be substantially horizontal and/or in plane with the ratcheting portion 330.

In some embodiments, the ratcheting portion 330 may provide distinct angles of inclination between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330. For example, the ratcheting portion 330 may produce predetermined angles of inclination between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330, such as five degrees, ten degrees, fifteen degrees, thirty degrees, forty-five degrees, and/or other angles of inclination between zero degrees and ninety degrees. Alternatively or additionally, the ratcheting portion 330 may provide a continuum of angles of inclination, such that the user may determine an angle of inclination as desired. For example, the ratcheting portion 330 may include one or more mechanical tightening devices that may be adjusted by the user to set the angle of inclination to a desired amount. The mechanical tightening devices may include clamps, screws, and/or other variable tightening devices.

In some embodiments, the support arm 320 may attach to the bench top portion 310 and may interface with the ratcheting portion 330. The support arm 320 may maintain and/or support the bench top portion 310 in a desired inclination angle (e.g., any angle equal to or between zero degrees and ninety degrees between the bench top portion 310 and the ratcheting portion 330).

In some embodiments, the support arm 320 may attach to a bottom portion of the bench top portion 310. For example, the support arm 320 and the bench top portion 310 may be coupled together with a pivoting joint 419. In some embodiments, the pivoting joint 419 may permit the bench top portion 310 to vary an inclination amount relative to the ratcheting portion 330 while the support arm 320 may remain coupled to the bench top portion 310 and interfaced with the ratcheting portion 330.

In some embodiments, the support arm 320 may include interfacing mechanisms (not illustrated in FIG. 4) disposed on a distal end that may interface with the ratchet elements of the ratcheting portion 330. For example, in instances in which the ratcheting portion 330 includes the multiple recesses 417, the interfacing mechanisms of the support arm 320 may include one or more rods and/or pins that may be received into the receptacles, which may maintain the support arm 320 in a fixed position.

FIGS. 5A and 5B illustrate perspective views of an example smart bench system 400, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. The smart bench system 400 may include the first smart box device 100a, the second smart box device 100b, and the adjustable bench 300. FIG. 5A illustrates the smart bench system 400 with the adjustable bench 300 in a lowered configuration. FIG. 5B illustrates the smart bench system 400 with the adjustable bench 300 in a raised configuration.

In some embodiments, the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may form a smart box system that is analogous to the smart box system 160 of FIG. 2B. The first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may be attached along the side portions 130a,b. The first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b may form a base portion of the smart bench system 400. Alternatively or additionally, more than two smart box devices may be attached along the elongated side portions 120a,b to form the base portion of the smart bench system 400. For example, two sets of smart box systems may be arranged the same as or similarly to the smart box system 160 of FIG. 2C such that the smart bench system including four smart box devices is a similar length as the smart bench system 400 and may include a width that is twice as wide.

In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 may be positioned on and/or be attached to the top portions 110a,b of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b. In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 may interface with locking portions disposed on the top portions 110a,b, such as the top locking elements 112a,b. Alternatively or additionally, the adjustable bench 300 may attach to the top portions 110a,b using mechanical fasteners. For example, mechanical fasteners such as screws, clamps, dowels, etc., may be used to align and/or secure the adjustable bench 300 to the top portions 110a,b.

In some embodiments, a width of the adjustable bench 300 may be the same as or similar to a width of the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b (e.g., the width of the side portions 130a,b), such that the edges of the adjustable bench 300 may be substantially flush with the elongated side portions 120a,b. Alternatively or additionally, the width of the adjustable bench 300 may be wider or narrower than the width of the first smart box device 100a, the second smart box device 100b, or some combination thereof.

In some embodiments, the adjustable bench 300 may be physically positioned on the first smart box device 100a and the second smart box device 100b such that the adjustable end 314 may be flush with an end of the second smart box device 100b. In some embodiments, a length of the adjustable bench 300 may be less than an overall length of the first smart box device 100a combined with the length of the second smart box device 100b. For example, in instances in which the adjustable end 314 is flush with the end of the second smart box device 100b, the pivot end 312 may not extend to the opposite end of the first smart box device 100a, such that a seat portion 515 may be formed by the uncovered portion of the top portion 110a.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the smart bench system 400 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the smart bench system 400 may include three or more smart box devices that may be arranged in multiple different configurations. In another example, the smart bench system 400 may include a larger exercise surface that may be configured to attach to an arrangement of multiple smart box devices.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exploded view of the smart box device 100 with an exemplary top layer 617, in accordance with at least one aspect of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the top layer 617 may include a traction surface, a cushioned surface, or some combination thereof. In addition, the top layer 617 may be liquid resistant.

In some embodiments, the top layer 617 may provide a non-slip contact point for the user during use of the smart box device 100. For example, in instances in which the user is stepping and/or jumping onto the smart box device 100, the top layer 617 operating as a traction surface may improve traction between shoes and/or feet of the user such that the user is less likely to slip upon contacting the top layer 617. The top layer 617 may include a coating to reduce wear and increase liquid resistance of the top layer 617. In some embodiments, the top layer 617 may include elastomer and/or polymer materials.

In some embodiments, the top layer 617 may reduce an impact force that results from stepping and/or jumping onto the smart box device 100. For example, in instances in which the user is jumping onto the smart box device 100, the top layer 617 operating as a cushioned surface may soften a landing thereon such that the smart box device 100 may be more comfortable for the user during use and/or may reduce a likelihood of short term and/or long-term injury.

In some embodiments, the liquid-resistant materials of the top layer 617 may resist and/or prevent water and/or other liquids from damaging the top layer 617. For example, the top layer 617 may include liquid-resistant materials that reduce and/or prevent degradation from sweat, rain, spilled liquids, and the like.

The top layer 617 may define recesses 619. The recesses 619 may be defined to be shaped, sized, physically positioned, or some combination thereof to be complementary, opposite, or some combination thereof to the top set of locking elements 112 of the smart box device 100. The recesses 619, when the top layer 617 is attached to the top portion 110, may permit the top set of locking elements 112 to extend beyond the top layer 617 to permit the top set of locking elements 112 to interface with recesses of the bottom portion 114 of another smart box device.

FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of an example sensing system 600 of the smart box device 100, in accordance with at least one embodiment described in the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the sensing system 600 may be configured to determine interactions of a user with the smart box device 100, such as stepping, jumping, and/or other user actions relative to the smart box device 100. The sensing system 600 may include force sensors 610, a processing unit 620, a communication module 630, and a power source 640. The sensing system 600 may be selectively attachable to the smart box device 100. The sensing system 600 may be selectively attachable to the smart box device 100 via a removable sensing mat (e.g., force sensors 610) that is attached to the top portion 110, electronic components (e.g., the processing unit 620 and the communication module 630 coupled) to the removable sensing unit, or some combination thereof.

In some embodiments, one or more elements of the sensing system 600 may be disposed within the smart box device 100. For example, the force sensors 610 may be coupled to the top portion of the smart box device 100 and may sense various forces applied to the top portion of the smart box device 100. In some embodiments, the processing unit 620 may be disposed within the smart box device 100 and may be coupled to the force sensors 610. Alternatively or additionally, the processing unit 620 may be remote from the smart box device 100.

In some embodiments, the force sensors 610 may include load cells, force sensitive resistors, flex sensors, molecular deposition-based strain gauges, and/or proximity sensors that may contribute to determining the interactions of the user with the smart box device 100. For example, the force sensors 610 may include strain-gauge load cells, piezoelectric load cells, inductive load cells, capacitive load cells, magneto-strictive load cells, and/or other load cells or force sensors.

In some embodiments, the processing unit 620 may be configured to execute instructions stored on any applicable computer-readable storage media. For example, the processing unit 620 of the sensing system 600 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or any other digital or analog circuitry configured to interpret and/or to execute program instructions and/or to process data.

In some embodiments, the communication module 630 may include any device, system, component, or collection of components configured to allow or facilitate communication between the sensing system 600 and a remote device (not illustrated in FIG. 7). For example, the communication module 630 may include, without limitation, a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, an optical communication device, a wireless communication device (such as an antenna), and/or chipset (such as a Bluetooth device which may include Bluetooth Low Energy, a Near-Field Communication device, an 802.6 device (e.g. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)), a Wi-Fi device, a WiMAX device, cellular communication facilities, etc.), and/or the like. The sensing system 600 may permit data to be exchanged with any network such as a cellular network, a Wi-Fi network, a MAN, an optical network, etc., to name a few examples, and/or any other devices which may include devices remote from the sensing system 600. In some embodiments, the remote device may include a personal computing device, such as a mobile phone, mobile computer, tablet computer, and/or similar computing devices.

In some embodiments, the power source 640 may include a battery that may be configured to provide power to the sensing system 600. In some embodiments, the power source 640 may be selectively attachable to the smart box device 100 and/or the sensing system 600. Alternatively or additionally, the power source 640 may include a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the sensing system 600 may recharge the power source 640 using a quick charge device. Alternatively or additionally, the power source 640 may be recharged using wireless charging. Alternatively or additionally, the power source 640 may be configured to be recharged using kinetic energy.

In some embodiments, the sensing system 600 may obtain usage data associated with use of the smart box device 100 by the user (e.g., data from the force sensors 610) and the sensing system 600 may process the usage data to determine the use of the smart box device 100 by the user. Alternatively or additionally, the sensing system 600 may transmit the usage data to a remote device that may process the usage data and determine the use of the smart box device 100 by the user. For example, after obtaining usage data, the sensing system 600 may transmit the usage data via the communication module 630 to the remote device for processing, such as a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone, a tablet computer, a personal computer, etc.), and/or a cloud-based network system.

In some embodiments, the processed usage data may include information related to imbalance detection, recommendations to correct form of the user during exercises, personalized workouts, workout metrics, etc. For example, the force sensors 610 may detect different forces related to the user landing unevenly on the top portion 110 of the smart box device 100 and may transmit the detected forces to the processing unit 620. The processing unit 620 may determine that the user is landing unevenly and may provide recommendations to the user via a graphical user interface, such as a display on a mobile device of the user. Alternatively or additionally, the force sensors 610 may detect a level of impact the user exerts on the top portion 110 of the smart box device 100 and transmit the detected impact to the processing unit 620, which may be located on a remote user device, such as a mobile phone. The processing unit 620 may determine that the user may benefit from adding an additional smart box device 100 on top of the existing smart box device 100 (e.g., the smart box system 150 of FIG. 2A) and may provide the recommendation of including an additional smart box device 100 to the user via the graphical user interface of the mobile phone.

In these and other embodiments, the processed usage data may be delivered to the user. For example, the processed usage data may be sent to a user device 650 and may be displayed in a graphical user interface. The graphical user interface may be located on a mobile phone, a personal computer, a tablet computer, etc. In some embodiments, the processed usage data may be obtained by the user device 650 from the device and/or system which may have performed the processing. For example, in instances in which the usage data is processed by a cloud-based network, the user device 650 may obtain the processed usage data and may display the results to the user in a graphical user interface located thereon.

FIG. 8 illustrates an example computer system 700 that may be used with a smart box device, according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The computer system 700 may include a processor 710, a memory 720, a data storage 730, a communication unit 740, and a user interface unit 750, which all may be communicatively coupled. In some embodiments, the computer system 700 may be part of the sensing system 600 of FIG. 7 and may be configured to perform one or more of the tasks described in relation to the sensing system 600.

Generally, the processor 710 may include any computing entity, or processing device including various computer hardware or software modules and may be configured to execute instructions stored on any applicable computer-readable storage media. For example, the processor 710 may include a microprocessor, a microcontroller, a parallel processor such as a graphics processing unit (GPU) or tensor processing unit (TPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a Field-Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), or any other digital or analog circuitry configured to interpret and/or to execute program instructions and/or to process data.

Although illustrated as a single processor in FIG. 8, it is understood that the processor 710 may include any number of processors distributed across any number of networks or physical locations that are configured to perform individually or collectively any number of operations described herein. In some embodiments, the processor 710 may interpret and/or execute program instructions and/or process data stored in the memory 720. In some embodiments, the processor 710 may execute the program instructions stored in the memory 720.

For example, in some embodiments, the instructions for the processing unit 620 may be included in the data storage 730 as program instructions. The processor 710 may fetch the program instructions from the data storage 730 and may load the program instructions in the memory 720. After the program instructions are loaded into the memory 720, the processor 710 may execute program instructions such that the computer system 700 may perform or direct the performance of the operations associated with force sensing as directed by the program instructions. In these and other embodiments, the program instructions may be used to perform one or more operations described relative to FIG. 8.

The memory 720 and/or the data storage 730 may include computer-readable storage media or one or more computer-readable storage mediums for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon. Such computer-readable storage media may be any available media that may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer, such as the processor 710.

By way of example, and not limitation, such computer-readable storage media may include non-transitory computer-readable storage media including Random Access Memory (RAM), Read-Only Memory (ROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), Compact Disc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM) or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, flash memory devices (e.g., solid state memory devices), or any other storage medium which may be used to carry or store particular program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and which may be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable storage media.

Computer-executable instructions may include, for example, instructions and data configured to cause the processor 710 to perform a certain operation or group of operations as described in this disclosure. In these and other embodiments, the term “non-transitory” as explained in the present disclosure should be construed to exclude only those types of transitory media that were found to fall outside the scope of patentable subject matter in the Federal Circuit decision of In re Nuuten, 500 F.3d 1346 (Fed. Cir. 2007). Combinations of the above may also be included within the scope of computer-readable media.

The communication unit 740 may include any component, device, system, or combination thereof that is configured to transmit or receive information over a network. In some embodiments, the communication unit 740 may communicate with other devices at other locations, the same location, or even other components within the same system. For example, the communication unit 740 may include a modem, a network card (wireless or wired), an infrared communication device, a wireless communication device (such as an antenna), and/or chipset (such as a Bluetooth® device, an 802.6 device (e.g., Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)), a WiFi device, a WiMax device, cellular communication facilities, etc.), and/or the like. The communication unit 740 may permit data to be exchanged with a network and/or any other devices or systems described in the present disclosure. For example, when the computer system 700 is included in the processing unit 620 of FIG. 7, the communication unit 740 may allow the processing unit 620 to communicate with the user device 650.

The user interface unit 750 may include any device to allow a user to interface with the computer system 700. For example, the user interface unit 750 may include a mouse, a track pad, a keyboard, buttons, camera, and/or a touchscreen, among other devices. The user interface unit 750 may receive input from a user and provide the input to the processor 710.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the computer system 700 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the computer system 700 may include any number of other components that may not be explicitly illustrated or described. Further, depending on certain implementations, the computer system 700 may not include one or more of the components illustrated and described.

As indicated above, the embodiments described herein may include the use of a computing system (e.g., the processor 710 of FIG. 8) including various computer hardware or software modules, as discussed in greater detail below. Further, as indicated above, embodiments described herein may be implemented using computer-readable media (e.g., the memory 720 of FIG. 8) for carrying or having computer-executable instructions or data structures stored thereon.

In some embodiments, the different components, modules, engines, and services described herein may be implemented as objects or processes that execute on a computing system (e.g., as separate threads). While some of the systems and methods described herein are generally described as being implemented in software (stored on and/or executed by general purpose hardware), specific hardware implementations or a combination of software and specific hardware implementations are also possible and contemplated.

In accordance with common practice, the various features illustrated in the drawings may not be drawn to scale. The illustrations presented in the present disclosure are not meant to be actual views of any particular apparatus (e.g., device, system, etc.) or method, but are merely idealized representations that are employed to describe various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may be simplified for clarity. Thus, the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given apparatus (e.g., device) or all operations of a particular method.

Terms used herein and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as “open” terms (e.g., the term “including” should be interpreted as “including, but not limited to,” the term “having” should be interpreted as “having at least,” the term “includes” should be interpreted as “includes, but is not limited to,” etc.).

Additionally, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases “at least one” and “one or more” to introduce claim recitations. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles “a” or “an” limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases “one or more” or “at least one” and indefinite articles such as “a” or “an” (e.g., “a” and/or “an” should be interpreted to mean “at least one” or “one or more”); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.

In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, it is understood that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of “two recitations,” without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to “at least one of A, B, and C, etc.” or “one or more of A, B, and C, etc.” is used, in general such a construction is intended to include A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc. For example, the use of the term “and/or” is intended to be construed in this manner.

Further, any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase “A or B” should be understood to include the possibilities of “A” or “B” or “A and B.”

Additionally, the use of the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are not necessarily used herein to connote a specific order or number of elements. Generally, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., are used to distinguish between different elements as generic identifiers. Absence a showing that the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc., connote a specific order, these terms should not be understood to connote a specific order. Furthermore, absence a showing that the terms first,” “second,” “third,” etc., connote a specific number of elements, these terms should not be understood to connote a specific number of elements. For example, a first widget may be described as having a first side and a second widget may be described as having a second side. The use of the term “second side” with respect to the second widget may be to distinguish such side of the second widget from the “first side” of the first widget and not to connote that the second widget has two sides.

All examples and conditional language recited herein are intended for pedagogical objects to aid the reader in understanding the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, it should be understood that the various changes, substitutions, and alterations could be made hereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

SMART BOX DEVICE

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Priority Claims (1)