FITNESS TRACKING AND GUIDING SYSTEM FOR FITNESS CENTERS

Abstract

A fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers, comprising a primary imaging unit 101 installed at a gym 102 for capturing multiple images of an individual entering the gym 102, multiple weight sensors 103 installed on floor of the gym 102 for detecting the individual’s weight, plurality of robotic bodies 104 positioned within the gym 102 to provide assistance to the individual, a secondary imaging unit 201 mounted on the body 104 for detecting exact location of the individual, plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 configured underneath the body 104 for positioning the body 104 in proximity to the individual, a display panel 203 mounted on the body 104 for displaying an animated video regarding the determined exercises to be performed by the individual for different time intervals, a holographic projection unit 204 mounted on the body 104 for projecting holograms to guide the individual in maintaining accurate posture.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers that is capable of allowing a user in selecting a trainer to provide exercise guidance to the user. In addition, the proposed system also detects the user's body weight to determine which exercise the user needs to be perform, thus ensuring that each exercise is aligned with the user's specific fitness goals.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] In traditional gym environments, users often rely on generalized workout plans or sporadic guidance from trainers, which may not align with their specific fitness goals. These approaches can lead to ineffective workouts, improper form, and an increased risk of injury. Additionally, the users struggle to select the appropriate trainer who is able to provide tailored guidance based on their unique needs and fitness levels. While some gyms have adopted basic tracking systems to monitor user progress, these systems often lack the integration of real-time feedback and personalized exercise regimens that are crucial for achieving optimal results.

[0003] Current fitness tracking solutions typically focus on recording basic metrics such as steps taken, calories burned, and heart rate, without considering the user's individual fitness goals or providing direct assistance during workouts. Moreover, existing systems do not offer a comprehensive method for selecting trainers or ensuring that users perform exercises with the correct form. This gap in functionality often leads to suboptimal workouts and hinders users from achieving their desired fitness outcomes. Thus, there is a need to develop a system that provide personalized trainer selection, real-time posture correction, and exercise guidance is increasingly evident in the fitness industry.

[0004] WO2024015768A1 discloses about a system for tracking and logging an athletic workout of a user, the system including at least one camera and at least one computing device running a tracking application. The system provides the user with tailored dialogue, logging, analysis and feedback based on the video, photo or audio information the camera receives from viewing the user and exercise equipment. The computing device includes a module for generating information via various artificial modalities by processing input data. The system may process visual inputs from the user, area, wearable or fitness-related item including their movement, equipment and utilizes machine learning models to analyse and extract relevant information. Although, WO'768 is capable of tracking user's fitness, however the system fails the ability to automatically determine and suggest exercises based on the user's BMI or other personalized health metrics, which is crucial for aligning workouts with individual fitness goals.

[0005] US20230078009A1 discloses about a fitness tracking devices and methods of operating the same. The fitness tracking device includes a sensor circuit to generate sensor data; a processor coupled to the sensor circuit; and a memory coupled to the processor and storing processor-executable instructions that, when executed, configure the processor to: buffer sensor data associated with motion of the user limb; generate an exercise prediction based on a prediction model and the sensor data, the prediction model defined by one or more oscillating signal profiles to identify genus predictions for respective limb movement types about at least one sensor axis, wherein the exercise prediction is generated based on a combination of an identified genus prediction associated with the generated sensor data and environment data associated with motion of the user limb; and transmit a signal representing the exercise prediction for display on a user interface. Though, US'009 is capable of tracking the fitness record of the user, however the device fails to determine and suggest exercises based on the user's BMI or other personalized health metrics, which is crucial for aligning workouts with individual fitness goals, thus hinders the user from achieving their desired fitness outcomes.

[0006] Conventionally, many systems have been developed to assist users in their fitness journeys, however, these devices lack real-time, interactive guidance that is customized to the user's specific fitness goals. Additionally, many existing systems do not offer the trainer selection, equipment recognition, and posture correction, which are essential for ensuring that users perform exercises safely and effectively. As a result, the users experience difficulties in selecting appropriate exercises, using equipment correctly, and maintaining proper form, ultimately leading to suboptimal workouts and an increased risk of injury.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that not only requires to monitor the workouts performed by a user in fitness centers but also needs to provide real-time, interactive assistance tailored to the user's individual needs. The developed system requires to provide options to the user for selecting trainers, recognizing and guiding users in the proper usage of gym equipment, and needs to continuously monitor and correct posture during exercises.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that allows a user in selecting a trainer to provide exercise guidance to the user as per requirement of the user.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that detects the user's body weight to determine which exercise the user needs to perform, thus ensuring that each exercise is aligned with the user's specific fitness goals.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that continuously monitors the user's body posture and provides corrective feedback to ensure that the user maintains a correct posture, thus helps to prevent injuries and maximizes the effectiveness of each exercise.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers that assists a user in selecting a trainer to provide exercise guidance to the user and continuously monitors the user's body posture to provide corrective feedback, thus ensuring that the user maintains the correct posture during performing various types of workouts.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers, comprises of a primary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed at an entrance of a gym for capturing multiple images of an individual entering the gym, a microcontroller linked with the imaging unit compares the processed image with pre-saved images stored in a database linked with the microcontroller for fetching profile of the individual which includes schedule of the individual along with targeted BMI (Body Mass Index) of the individual, a communication module integrated within the microcontroller, wherein upon fetching the individual's profile, the microcontroller accesses the database to fetch details regarding availability of different trainers which is sent via the communication module to a first computing unit accessed by the individual for allowing the individual to select one of the trainers, and upon selection of the trainer, the microcontroller sends an alert on a second computing unit accessed by the trainer for allowing the trainer to provide guidance to the user, plurality of weight sensors installed on floor at the entrance for detecting weight of the user, wherein upon detection of the weight, the microcontroller calculates BMI of the individual by accessing the database to fetch the individual's height from the profile and the detected weight, on a daily basis, and based on the calculated BMI targeted BMI, and schedule of the individual, the microcontroller determines exercise to be performed by the individual, plurality of robotic bodies, associated with the system, positioned within the gym, wherein upon fetching profile of the individual, the microcontroller assigns one of the bodies to the user, and accordingly the microcontroller sends an alert on a control unit installed with one of the assigned body to maneuver the body in proximity to the individual and provide assistance to the individual.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed system further comprises of a secondary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit paired with a processing unit mounted on the body for capturing and processing multiple images of the user's respectively, for detecting exact location of the individual, in accordance to which the control unit actuates plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels configured underneath the body for maneuvering and positioning the body in proximity to the individual, a display panel mounted on the body that is activated by the control unit for displaying an animated video regarding the determined exercises to be performed by the individual for different time intervals, wherein the control unit via the secondary imaging unit continuously monitors body posture maintained by the individual while performing the exercises, a holographic projection unit mounted on the body, wherein in case the monitored body posture is incorrect in comparison to ideal posture to be maintained while performing the exercises, the control unit activates a speaker mounted on the body for notifying the user regarding incorrect posture and synchronously activates the projection unit for projecting holograms to guide the individual in maintaining an accurate posture while performing the exercise and a battery is associated with the system for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with the system.

[0016] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers; and
Figure 2 illustrates an isometric view of a robotic body associated with the proposed system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0019] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises," and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having" and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0020] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0021] The present invention relates to a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers that assists a user in selecting a trainer for personalized exercise guidance. The system provides corrective feedback in real-time, ensuring that the user maintains a correct posture during exercises that not only helps prevent injuries to the user but also maximizes the effectiveness of each workout, enabling the user to achieve their fitness goals more efficiently.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 & 2, an isometric view of a fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers and an isometric view of a robotic body associated with the proposed device are illustrated, respectively comprising a primary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 101 installed at a gym 102, plurality of weight sensors 103 installed on floor of the gym 102, plurality of robotic bodies 104 positioned within the gym 102, a secondary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 mounted on the body 104, plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 configured underneath the body 104, a display panel 203 mounted on the body 104, a holographic projection unit 204 mounted on the body 104 and a speaker 205 mounted on the body 104.

[0023] The proposed system herein comprises of a primary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 101 positioned at an entrance of a gym 102 for capturing and processing multiple images of an individual entering the gym 102. An inbuilt microcontroller associated with the system that activates the primary imaging unit 101 for capturing multiple images of the individual.

[0024] The imaging unit 101 comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the individual, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 101 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 101 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and compares the processed image with pre-saved images stored in a database linked with the microcontroller for fetching profile of the individual which includes schedule of the individual along with targeted BMI (Body Mass Index) of the individual.

[0025] After fetching the individual's profile, the microcontroller accesses the database to fetch details regarding availability of different trainers which is sent to a first computing unit wirelessly linked with the microcontroller via an integrated communication module, which establish a wireless connection between the microcontroller and the computing unit for enabling the individual to remotely control the system via the computing unit.

[0026] The computing unit is linked with the microcontroller via the integrated communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module for establishing a wireless network between the microcontroller and computing unit, thus the information about the availability of different trainers is sent to the first computing unit that is accessed by the individual for allowing the individual to select one of the trainers. Upon selection of the trainer, the microcontroller sends an alert on a second computing unit accessed by the trainer for allowing the trainer to provide guidance to the individual.

[0027] The floor of the entrance is integrated with plurality of weight sensors 103 for detecting weight of the individual. The weight sensors 103 consist of a thin metal strip or foil made from materials like constantan or nichrome, which are sensitive to deformation. When the individual steps on the floor, their weight exerts force on the sensors 103, causing the metal strip to deform slightly. This deformation changes the electrical resistance of the strain gauge. The change in resistance is proportional to the force applied, which is then converted into an electrical signal by the sensors 103 circuitry. This signal is processed by the microcontroller to calculate the individual weight accurately.

[0028] After the weight sensors 103 integrated into the entrance floor detect the individual's weight, this data is immediately transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then accesses the database to retrieve the individual's height, which is stored in their profile. Using the detected weight and the fetched height, the microcontroller calculates the individual's BMI which is performed on a daily basis to monitor changes in the individual's BMI. Once the current BMI is calculated, the microcontroller compares it with the individual's targeted BMI, which is also stored in their profile. Based on this information the calculated BMI, targeted BMI, and the predefined schedule, the microcontroller determines the most suitable exercises for the individual to perform that day.

[0029] When the individual's profile is fetched by the microcontroller, the system assigns one of plurality of robotic bodies 104 positioned within the gym 102 to the individual. These robotic bodies 104 provide assistance to the individual as needed. Upon assigning the robotic body 104 to the individual, the microcontroller sends an alert to the control unit installed within one of the assigned bodies 104 to maneuver the body 104 in proximity to the individual and provide assistance to the individual.

[0030] The microcontroller then activates a secondary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 paired with a processing unit mounted on the body 104 for capturing and processing multiple images of the individual's respectively, for detecting exact location of the individual. Based on the individual's exact location, the control unit actuates plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 configured underneath the robotic body 104 for maneuvering and positioning the body 104 in proximity to the individual.

[0031] The motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 are powered by are powered by a DC (Direct Current) motor, which convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. When the robotic body 104 receives electric current from a battery integrated within the body 104, the DC motors generate rotational force. This force is then transmitted to the wheels 202 via a gearbox, which converts the rotary motion into linear motion, propelling the robotic body 104 forward, backward, or sideways as required. The motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 are designed to move independently, allowing the robotic body 104 to change direction smoothly and precisely by adjusting the speed and direction of each wheel 202 individually, thus maneuvering and positioning the body 104 in proximity to the individual.

[0032] A display panel 203 is integrated with the body 104 that is activated by the control unit for displaying an animated video regarding the determined exercises to be performed by the individual for different time intervals. The display panel 203 operates by converting electronic signals from the microcontroller into visual information that the individual sees and interact with. The primary components of the display panel 203 include the display screen, a display driver, a backlight and an interface controller. The microcontroller sends data, including text and images, in the form of electronic signals to the display driver, which is responsible for controlling the pixels on the display screen.

[0033] The interface controller manages communication between the microcontroller and the display driver, ensuring that the correct data is shown on the screen. If the display is an LCD, a backlight illuminates the pixels, making the information visible. The pixels are activated in specific patterns to form the images or text corresponding to the exercise instructions, which are clearly displayed for the individual. The individual then follows these instructions as they appear on the screen, using the display panel 203 as a visual guide to be performed by the individual for different time intervals.

[0034] Simultaneously, the control unit in synchronization with the secondary imaging unit 201, continuously monitors the individual's posture. If the individual deviates from the correct posture, the system provide real-time feedback through the display panel 203, ensuring that the individual maintains proper form throughout the exercise routine.

[0035] When the system detects that the individual's body 104 posture deviates from the ideal posture during exercise, the control unit activates a speaker 205 on the robotic body 104 to alert the individual with an audible notification. This notification is a verbal cue or a sound designed to draw the individual's attention to their posture. Simultaneously, the control unit activates a holographic projection unit 204, also mounted on the robotic body 104 to display a hologram that visually represents the correct posture.

[0036] The holographic projection unit 204 consists of several key components, including a light source, a spatial light modulator (SLM), optical lenses, and a projection surface or medium. The light source, typically a laser or high-intensity LED, generates a beam of light that is essential for creating the hologram. This light beam is then directed onto the spatial light modulator, which is responsible for encoding the holographic data onto the light. The SLM, based on LCD technology, manipulates the light's phase and amplitude to form the desired holographic pattern.

[0037] After modulation, the light passes through a series of optical lenses that focus and shape the beam, allowing it to project a three-dimensional holographic image into space. The projection surface or medium varies depending on the design, but it usually involves a transparent or semi-transparent screen that allows the hologram to be viewed clearly from different angles, thus providing the individual with visual guidance during exercises, particularly for correcting posture in real-time.

[0038] After calculating the individual's BMI based on the detected weight and stored height, the microcontroller continuously monitors the individual's progress over time. This monitoring involves comparing the daily calculated BMI with previous records to assess changes and trends in the individual's physical condition. The microcontroller processes this data to evaluate how well the individual is progressing towards their fitness goals, such as achieving the targeted BMI.

[0039] Using this ongoing data collection, the microcontroller generates a performance report that includes metrics such as current BMI, changes over time, and progress towards the targeted BMI, along with other relevant fitness data. The performance report is then displayed on both the first computing unit, which is accessed by the individual, and the second computing unit, accessed by the trainer. This dual display ensures that both the individual and the trainer are informed about the individual's progress, enabling them to make informed decisions about future workouts and adjustments to the fitness plan.

[0040] The microcontroller accesses the database to retrieve information about the individual's subscription status. The database contains details about the validity and expiration of the individual's subscription to the gym 102 or fitness service. Based on this data, the microcontroller determines if the subscription is nearing its expiration or has already expired. If a renewal is needed, the microcontroller sends an alert to the first computing unit, which is used by the individual. This alert serves as a reminder for the individual to renew their subscription, ensuring that they continue to have access to the gym's 102 facilities and services without interruption.

[0041] In addition, an AR (Augmented Reality) module is integrated into the system serves as a crucial tool for helping users identify gym equipment and understand how to use it effectively. The AR module has a comprehensive database stored in its memory, which includes the names of all the gym equipment available, along with detailed information about the various exercises that needs to be performed using each piece of equipment.

[0042] When the trainer provides guidance on which equipment to use, the AR module helps the user by visually recognizing the specified equipment through its AR interface. For instance, the AR module display the name and function of a particular machine, overlaying this information onto the user's view in real time. Additionally, the AR module offers step-by-step instructions on how to properly use the equipment, ensuring that the user performs the exercises correctly and safely. This guidance can include visual cues, animations, or even virtual demonstrations of the exercise, which appear directly in the user's field of vision. By providing this interactive and informative experience, the AR module enhances the user's ability to recognize and use gym equipment efficiently, thereby improving the overall effectiveness of their workout.

[0043] The system is associated with a battery for providing the required power to the electronically and electrically operated components including the microcontroller, electrically powered sensors, motorized components and alike of the system. The battery within the system is preferably a lithium-ion-battery which is a rechargeable battery and recharges by deriving the required power from an external power source. The derived power is further stored in form of chemical energy within the battery, which when required by the components of the system derive the required energy in the form of electric current for ensuring smooth and proper functioning of the system.

[0044] The present invention works best in the following manner, where upon entrance of an individual within the gym 102, the inbuilt microcontroller as disclosed activates the primary imaging unit 101 for capturing and processing the individual's image, which is then compared to pre-saved profiles in the database to identify the individual. The microcontroller retrieves the individual's profile, including the individual's height and targeted BMI, and calculates their current BMI based on weight detected by sensors 103 embedded in the entrance floor. The system assigns the robotic body 104 within the gym 102 to the individual, which is equipped with the control unit, display panel 203, and holographic projection unit 204. The robotic body 104 navigates to the individual using motorized wheels 202 and provides real-time exercise guidance through an animated video displayed on its panel. If the individual's posture deviates from the ideal form, the system activates both an audio alert and the holographic projection to correct the posture. Additionally, the microcontroller continuously monitors progress and generates the performance report, which is displayed on computing units accessed by both the individual and their trainer. This allows both parties to track progress and adjust fitness plans as needed. The system also manages subscription details by accessing the database and sending renewal reminders to the individual's computing unit if the subscription is about to expire.

[0045] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to person skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A fitness tracking and guiding system for fitness centers, comprising:

i) a primary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 101 paired with a processor installed at an entrance of a fitness center like gym 102 for capturing and processing multiple images of an individual entering said gym 102, wherein a microcontroller linked with said imaging unit 101 compares said processed image with pre-saved images stored in a database linked with said microcontroller for fetching profile of said individual which includes schedule of said individual along with targeted BMI (Body Mass Index) of said individual;
ii) a communication module integrated within said microcontroller, wherein upon fetching said individual's profile, said microcontroller accesses said database to fetch details regarding availability of different trainers which is sent via said communication module to a first computing unit accessed by said individual for allowing said individual to select one of said trainers, and upon selection of said trainer, said microcontroller sends an alert on a second computing unit accessed by said trainer for allowing said trainer to provide guidance to said individual;
iii) plurality of weight sensors 103 installed on floor at said entrance for detecting weight of said individual, wherein upon detection of said weight, said microcontroller calculates BMI (Body Mass Index) of said individual by accessing said database to fetch said individual's height from said profile and said detected weight, on a daily basis, and based on said calculated BMI targeted BMI, and schedule of said individual, said microcontroller determines exercise to be performed by said individual;
iv) plurality of robotic bodies 104, associated with said system, positioned within said gym 102, wherein upon fetching profile of said individual, said microcontroller assigns one of said bodies 104 to said individual, and accordingly said microcontroller sends an alert on a control unit installed with one of said assigned body 104 to maneuver said body 104 in proximity to said individual and provide assistance to said individual;
v) a secondary artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 201 paired with a processing unit mounted on said body 104 for capturing and processing multiple images of said individual's respectively, for detecting exact location of said individual, in accordance to which said control unit actuates plurality of motorized omnidirectional wheels 202 configured underneath said body 104 for maneuvering and positioning said body 104 in proximity to said individual;
vi) a display panel 203 mounted on said body 104 that is activated by said control unit for displaying an animated video regarding said determined exercises to be performed by said individual for different time intervals, wherein said control unit via said secondary imaging unit 201 continuously monitors body 104 posture maintained by said individual while performing said exercises; and
vii) a holographic projection unit 204 mounted on said body 104, wherein in case said monitored body 104 posture is incorrect in comparison to ideal posture to be maintained while performing said exercises, said control unit activates a speaker 205 mounted on said body 104 for notifying said individual regarding incorrect posture and synchronously activates said projection unit 204 for projecting holograms to guide said individual in maintaining an accurate posture while performing said exercise.

2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller via said calculated BMI monitors progress of said individual and generates a performance report which is displayed on said first and second computing units for allowing said individual and trainer to monitor said progress, respectively.

3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said database is also accessed by said microcontroller to fetch details regarding subscription of said individual, and accordingly said microcontroller sends an alert on said first computing unit to reminder said individual to renew said subscription.

4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is wirelessly linked with said computing unit via a communication module which includes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.

5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said system for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said system.

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