Patent Application
20250170449
The present invention relates to wearable devices. More specifically, the present invention relates to a wearable device and method of monitoring and providing feedback of an exercise activity.
It is known that fitness enthusiasts or athletes would like to obtain feedback on their posture, movement and technique during exercise or playing sports. Typically, fitness enthusiasts or athletes use a trainer or coach to manually observe them performing the exercise or playing sports and provide feedback. In one example, the trainer or coach uses an image capturing device to record a video of the fitness enthusiast or athlete to analyse the posture, movement and technique and provides feedback.
With improvement in technology, fitness enthusiasts or athletes use wearable devices for measuring physical exertion parameters and use the data to obtain feedback. One such example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 10,065,074, entitled “Training systems with wearable sensors for providing users with feedback” (“the '074 Patent”). The '074 Patent discloses a training system based on mobile technology and kinematics of human motion characterizes, analyses, and supplies feedback to a user based on the user's movements. The training system includes a garment having a sensor control module connected to multiple sensor nodes via electrically-conductive fabric running along parts portions of the garment. The sensor module/nodes can communicate through the conductive fabric. The sensor nodes acquire motion and/or physiologic readings that are wirelessly transmitted to a mobile computing device that runs an application that analyses the data and provides visual (e.g., graphs, 3D avatar) and audio feedback (e.g., voice prompts). Vibration motors and LEDs/electroluminescent fabric in the garment also provide notifications and alerts. The triple layer of garment, conductive fabric, and sensor module/sensor node are sealed against contaminants, allowing the garment to be washable.
Another example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 10,799,760, entitled “System and method for identifying and interpreting repetitive motions” (“the '760 Patent”). The '760 Patent discloses a motion tracking system that monitors the motions performed by a user based on motion data received from one or more sensors. The motion tracking system may include a motion tracking device with one or more sensors, a smart device with one or more sensors and/or a server. As the user interacts with the motion tracking system or smart device the motion data generated by one or more sensors is processed by a software application. The software application generates interpreted data based on the motion data and contextual data such as the equipment being used by the user. Feedback is then provided to the user during and/or after the user has performed a motion or a set of motions. The feedback provided to the user may be visual, audio or tactile. The application may be used to monitor a routine in a sporting, fitness, industrial or medical environment, for example.
Yet another example is disclosed in a U.S. Pat. No. 10,417,932, entitled “Biometric data gathering” (“the '932 Patent”). The '932 Patent discloses a universal 6-DOF mems sensor combined with six degree of motion algorithms and human motion parameters permits individualized real time motion analysis of a user to enable accurate measurements. Data derived thereby is wirelessly sent for viewing to a Bluetooth® enabled smartphone or combination smartphone and eyeglass device, such as the Google Glass® headset. The sensor is worn on a wrist or ankle band or in combination with a chest mounted cardio heart rate monitor dependent on the biometric parameters measured. Typical physical exercise data gathered includes reps, sets, 10-100-yard dash times, vertical, horizontal and broad jump distances, a range of shuttle times, RAST, steps taken, distance traveled, velocity, acceleration, and calories burned. The heart rate monitor provides cardio assessment and the 6-DOF sensor measures a runner's pace and cadence data.
Although the above discussed devices are useful, they have few problems. For instance, most of the existing devices do not recognise and categorise different exercises leading to inaccurate feedback. Further, the existing devices are designed to track specific types of exercises e.g., running or cycling, and lack support for identifying a variety of exercises. As such, the existing devices are limited in their functionality. Furthermore, the existing devices do not tailor recommendations or feedback based on wearer's fitness levels and/or goals.
Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide an improved wearable device capable of monitoring and providing feedback on an exercise activity.
It is an object of the present subject matter to provide a wearable device capable of monitoring and providing feedback of an exercise activity and that avoids the drawbacks of known wearable devices.
It is another object of the present subject matter to provide a wearable device that monitors a number of characteristics related to the motion pattern of the exercise activity and provides suggestions to improve the quality and safety of user's workout routines.
In order to overcome one or more objects, the present subject matter presents a wearable device for monitoring and providing feedback of an exercise activity. The wearable device includes a wrist band, an ankle band, a strap, a bracelet, or other body part band. The wearable device includes a sensor for monitoring motion/position and pressure data of a user while performing the exercise activity. The wearable device transmits the data to an electronic device. The electronic device monitors a number of characteristics related to the motion pattern of the exercise activity performed by the user and compares it with a predetermined pattern. If the motion pattern does not match with the predetermined pattern, then the electronic device generates a feedback with instructions related to correcting the execution of the exercise activity by the user.
In one advantageous feature of the present subject matter, the wearable device/electronic device keeps track of the workout routines such as repetitions, sets and how much weight the user is using. This helps the user to review their performance and make adjustments, if any, to improve their workout routines.
In another advantageous feature of the present subject matter, the electronic device provides step-by-step instructions of various workout routines for the user to follow, which helps to improve the quality and safety of the user's workout routines.
The features and advantages of the subject matter here will become more apparent in light of the following detailed description of selected embodiments, as illustrated in the accompanying FIGURES. As will be realized, the subject matter disclosed is capable of modifications in various respects, all without departing from the scope of the subject matter. Accordingly, the drawings and the description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature.
A more complete understanding of the invention and its many advantages thereof 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:
The following detailed description set forth below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of exemplary embodiments in which the presently disclosed subject matter may be practiced. The term “exemplary” used throughout this description means “serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and should not necessarily be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. The detailed description includes specific details for providing a thorough understanding of the presently disclosed wearable device. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the presently disclosed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in functional or conceptual diagram form in order to avoid obscuring the concepts of the presently disclosed wearable device.
In the present specification, an embodiment showing a singular component should not be considered limiting. Rather, the subject matter preferably encompasses other embodiments including a plurality of the same component, and vice-versa, unless explicitly stated otherwise herein. Moreover, the applicant does not intend for any term in the specification to be ascribed an uncommon or special meaning unless explicitly set forth as such. Further, the present subject matter encompasses present and future known equivalents to the known components referred to herein by way of illustration.
Although the present subject matter provides a description of a wearable device integrated, it is to be further understood that numerous changes may arise in the details of the embodiments of the wearable device. It is contemplated that all such changes and additional embodiments are within the spirit and true scope of this disclosure.
The following detailed description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the described embodiments or the application and uses of the described embodiments. All of the implementations described below are exemplary implementations provided to enable persons skilled in the art to make or use the embodiments of the disclosure and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure.
Various features and embodiments of a wearable device for monitoring and providing feedback of an exercise activity are explained in conjunction with the description of FIGUREs (
Wearable device 12 includes a first processor 32 positioned in housing 18. First processor 32 includes one or more commonly known CPUs such as a microprocessor or a microcontroller. It should be understood that first processor 32 is responsible for implementing specific functions under the control of software including an operating system, and any appropriate applications software. Wearable device 12 includes a first memory 34 such as a volatile memory (e.g., RAM), non-volatile memory (e.g., disk memory, FLASH memory, EPROMs, etc.), unalterable memory, and/or other types of memory. In one implementation, first memory 34 is configured or designed to store data, program instructions. The program instructions control the operation of an operating system and/or one or more applications. Wearable device 12 includes a first interface 36. First interface 36 includes a wired interface and/or a wireless interface. In one implementation, first interface 36 includes functionality similar to at least a portion of functionality implemented by one or more computer system interfaces such as those described herein and/or generally known to one having ordinary skill in the art. In some examples, wearable device 12 includes a display (not shown) for providing first interface 36 to user 14 to operate wearable device 12.
Wearable device 12 includes a first battery 38. First battery 38 indicates a rechargeable battery such as a Lithium Ion (Li-ion) battery. First battery 38 is charged using a cable (not shown) via a charging port (not shown). Optionally, first battery 38 is charged wirelessly using inductive charging or charging pad (not shown) as known in the art. Further, wearable device 12 includes a first wireless communication module(s)/transceiver 40. First transceiver 40 is configured to communicate with external devices using one or more wireless interfaces/protocols such as, for example, 802.11 (Wi-Fi), 802.15 (including Bluetooth™), 802.15 (Wi-Max), 802.22, Cellular standards such as CDMA, CDMA2000, WCDMA, Radio Frequency (e.g., RFID), Infrared, Near Field Magnetics, etc.
Further, electronic device 16 includes a second battery 58. Second battery 58 indicates a rechargeable battery such as a Lithium Ion (Li-ion) battery. Second battery 58 is charged using a cable (not shown) via a charging port (not shown). Optionally, second battery 58 is charged wirelessly using inductive charging or charging pad as known in the art. Further, electronic device 16 includes a display 60 configured to display text or video. Further, electronic device 16 includes a second wireless communication module(s)/transceiver 62. Second transceiver 62 is configured to communicate with external devices using one or more wireless interfaces/protocols such as, for example, 802.11 (Wi-Fi), 802.15 (including Bluetooth™), 802.15 (Wi-Max), 802.22, Cellular standards such as CDMA, CDMA2000, WCDMA, Radio Frequency (e.g., RFID), Infrared, Near Field Magnetics, etc.
In one implementation, electronic device 16 includes an application or program. Launching the application connects to wearable device 12 and allows it to operate/access wearable device 12. In order to monitor and provide feedback of an exercise activity being performed by user 14, at first, user 14 connects electronic device 16 to wearable device 12. In one example, user 14 pairs electronic device 16 with wearable device 12 wirelessly using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Here, user 14 activates wearable device 12 and performs the exercise activity. Optionally, wearable device 12 detects repeated motion or movements of user 14 and determines that user 14 has started the exercise activity. In one example, user 14 begins to perform the exercise activity based on a routine user 14 would like to perform. In another example, user 14 begins the exercise activity based on a routine suggested by electronic device 16.
As the user performs the exercise activity, sensor 30 monitors motion/position and pressure data of user 14, as shown at step 102. Further, first processor 32 instructs first transceiver 40 to transmit the data to electronic device 16. Electronic device 16 obtains the data in real-time and monitors a number of characteristics related to motion pattern of the exercise activity performed by user 14. Here, second processor 50 determines the type of exercise activity being performed by user 14, the quality of the form of user 14 as user 14 is performing the exercise activity and/or the number of counts or repetitions performed by user 14, as shown in step 104. At step 106, second processor 50 checks whether the motion pattern matches the predetermined pattern. If the motion pattern matches the predetermined pattern, method 100 moves to step 108. At step 108, electronic device 16 stores the motion pattern and displays the motion pattern on display 60 after user 14 completes a session of the exercise activity. At step 110, method 100 ends.
If the motion pattern does not match with the predetermined pattern at step 106, then method 100 moves to step 112. At step 112, electronic device 16 generates a feedback with instructions related to correcting the execution of the exercise activity by user 14. For example, consider user 14 is performing four (4) sets of hammer curls using twenty (20) pound dumbbells, then electronic device 16 generates the feedback that user 14 is doing only four (4) sets of hammer curls instead of recommended five (5) sets of hammer curls. In another example, consider user 14 is not taking rest or taking rest less than 20 seconds between each exercise activity or set, then electronic device 16 generates the feedback to take 20 seconds rest between the exercise activity or set. In one example, electronic device 16 transmits the feedback and displays on display 60 for user 14 to follow, as shown in step 114. Optionally, electronic device 16 transmits a haptic feedback to wearable device 12 to provide physical stimuli such as vibration to simulate tactile experience for user 14 to correct the exercise activity being performed by user 14. In one example, electronic device 16 provides the feedback to user 14 in real-time as user 14 performs the exercise activity causing wearable device 12 to vibrate in order to notify user 14 of bad/irregular form as user 14 is performing a curl. After suggesting the feedback, method 100 moves back to step 102 whereby wearable device 12 captures the motion and pressure data from wearable device 12. In one example, the feedback is displayed in the form of charts or tables on display 60 showcasing the performance of user 14 through the exercise activity or fitness routine.
Although the above method 100 is explained considering that wearable device 12 sends the motion data to electronic device 16 and electronic device 16 processes the motion data and provides the feedback, it is possible to configure wearable device 12 such that first processer 32 processes the motion and pressure data captured by sensor 30 and provides the feedback via the display (not shown) or causes the wearable device 12 to provide physical stimuli without departing from the scope of the present subject matter. In other words, wearable device 12 operates as a standalone device without the need for electronic device 16.
Now referring to
Server 206 is operated by a fitness band manufacturer or athlete performance service provider, etc. In the present embodiment, electronic device 204 receives the motion data and transmits to server 206. Server 206 processes the data and records the motion data. Further, server 206 analyses the motion data and sends feedback to be displayed on electronic device 204, as explained above.
The presently disclosed wearable device provides several advantages over the prior art. The wearable device can be worn by the user on his/her wrist, arms, elbows, knees, calves, shins, ankles, etc. The wearable device allows for monitoring movements and stresses on the body during a workout routine. The wearable device transmits the real-time data to the electronic device, which processes and provides suggestions/feedback in real-time for the user to correct the posture, stance, etc. when an inappropriate motion or pressure is detected. Further, the wearable device provides step-by-step instructions of various workout routines for the user to follow, which helps to improve the quality and safety of the user's workout routines.
A person skilled in the art appreciates that the wearable device can come in a variety of shapes and sizes depending on the need and comfort of the user. Further, many changes in the design and placement of components may take place without deviating from the scope of the presently disclosed wearable device.
In the above description, numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of some embodiments, specific components, devices, methods, in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present subject matter. It will be apparent to a person of ordinary skill in the art that these specific details need not be employed, and should not be construed to limit the scope of the subject matter.
In the development of any actual implementation, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints. Such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming, but may nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill. Hence as various changes could be made in the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.
The foregoing description of embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the novel principles and invention disclosed herein may be applied to other embodiments without the use of the innovative faculty. It is contemplated that additional embodiments are within the spirit and true scope of the disclosed subject matter.
The present application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63/604,126, filed Nov. 29, 2023; all of which is incorporated herein and referenced thereto.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63604126 | Nov 2023 | US |
