Safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers

Abstract

A safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers comprises (a) a safety device designed to rest comfortably on the swimmer's head, the safety device comprised of electronic components including a camera that scans the bottom of the pool / open water, GPS sensor, at least one alerting device to provide real-time feedback to the swimmer, CPU, memory, energy source and a communication module; (b) data aggregation and control module for aggregating data received from the camera in real time, (c) an Al model for analyzing the data in real time and providing alerts to the swimmer based on the prediction, and (d) an Al model for analyzing the data in real time and providing a personal trainer, whereby the camera capturing video in real time, and said safety device alerting the swimmer based on the camera output in real time in swimming pools / open water and navigating the swimmer according to the GPS sensor in open water.

Description

[0001] SAFETY SYSTEM FOR SWIMMERS INCLUDING VISUALLY IMPAIRED AND

[0002] ELDERLY SWIMMERS

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to an electronic navigation guidance system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a safety electronic navigation guidance system that allows visually impaired and the elderly swimmers safety and independence while swimming in swimming pools and all open water swimmers.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Visually impaired and elderly swimmers are prone to various dangers and are required to overcome obstacles while swimming. For example, visually impaired swimmers cannot see the lines on the bottom of the pool to indicate to the swimmer when they are close to the wall. Because of this, these swimmers are forced to have another person tap them on the head with a stick when it's time to turn around. This forces visually impaired people to have to work around an additional person’s schedule to find time to swim.

[0007] Furthermore, visually impaired swimmers cannot see obstacles or hazards such as breakwaters, rocks, etc. in open water such as lakes, streams and seas.

[0008] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to provide an improved system for swimmers - an improved system that supports visually impaired and elderly swimmers without the assistance of others.

[0009] The present invention is intended to provide a system that allows all open water swimmers to swim safely and visually impaired and elderly swimmers to swim safely and independently both in open water and in swimming pools,

[0010] The present invention is intended to provide a system that allows all open water swimmers to swim safely and visually impaired and adult swimmers to swim safely and independently both in open water and in swimming pools. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] The present invention is of a safety system for all open water swimmers and visually impaired and elderly swimmers in both open water and in swimming pools.

[0012] The system of the present invention provides safety, independence and increased motivation for swimming and opens up the swimming activity to the wide variety of visually impaired and elderly people who currently avoid swimming activities. Swimmers cannot see obstacles or hazards such as the wall or other swimmers in swimming pools and breakwaters, rocks, etc., in open water such as lakes, streams and seas. These, among others, as well as navigation / orientation for all open water swimmers are the reasons for providing the system of the present invention.

[0013] The system of the present invention may include hardware and software components and may be worn on the swimmer's head during training or competitions, with the aim of ensuring safety both in the pool and in open water.

[0014] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, there is thus provided a safety system for swimmers and mainly for visually impaired and elderly swimmers comprising:

[0015] (a) a safety device designed to rest comfortably on the swimmer's head, said safety device comprised of electronic components including a camera that scans the bottom of the pool / open water, at least one alerting device to provide real-time feedback to the swimmer, CPU, memory, energy source and a communication module;

[0016] (b) data aggregation and control module for aggregating data received from said camera in real time, and

[0017] (c) an Al model for analyzing the data in real time and providing alerts to the swimmer based on said prediction, whereby the camera capturing video in real time and said safety device alerting the swimmer based on the camera output in real time.

[0018] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system further comprising an additional electronic component, a GPS sensor for open water swimmers, said safety device navigating the swimmer according to the GPS sensor. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the at least one alerting device is a vibration transmitter, and / or audio transmitter, and / or a bone conduction transmitter.

[0019] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the data aggregation and control module is implemented on a smart phone.

[0020] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a drowning alert alarm is implemented on a smart phone.

[0021] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system further comprising a calibration module for checking signal quality parameters for alerting the swimmer to adjust position of the safety device for improving signal quality.

[0022] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

[0023] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a module for training a first Al model is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

[0024] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a personal trainer algorithm is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a module for training a second Al model module is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

[0025] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the electronic components are connected to one another via at least one of:

[0026] - a conductive garment;

[0027] - electronic wiring either embedded in or attached to a textile garment; and

[0028] - wireless communication.

[0029] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the conductive garment is a strip worn directly on the swimmer’s head or on top of a swim cap.

[0030] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the strip is made of a material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, flexible textiles and a combination thereof.

[0031] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a front body containing said camera is attached to said strip, said camera positionable above the forehead of the swimmer.

[0032] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the front body is made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other to form a seal against ingress of water into the body. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the front body is made of polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile TPU, polyurethane, and a combination thereof. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the front body having an inner part designed in a concave shape to fit the swimmer and prevent slipping or shifting of the front body while swimming.

[0033] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the front body’s inner part is made of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

[0034] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, at least one side body is attached to said strip, each of said at least one side body containing at least one alerting device.

[0035] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the at least one side body is made of a rigid shell comprised of one or multiple components connected to each other and forming a seal against water ingress into the at least one side body.

[0036] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the at least one side body is made of polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, Polycarbonate PC, Acrylonitrile ABS, Polyurethane TPU, and a combination thereof.

[0037] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the inner part of the at least one side body is made of flexible materials selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

[0038] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, each one of the at least one side body is located on the side of the swimmer’s head. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a rear body is attached to said strip, said rear body containing the CPU, the communication module, and the memory unit.

[0039] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rear body is made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other to produce a seal against water ingress into the rear body. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the rear body is made of polymeric materials resistant to water penetration, said polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, polycarbonate PC, acrylonitrile ABS, TPU polyurethane, and a combination thereof.

[0040] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the inside of the rear body is arched to create fit and comfort for the swimmer and to prevent the rear body from sliding or moving during swimming.

[0041] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the inside of the rear body is made of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber or sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

[0042] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, to prevent penetration of water and salts into the electronic components, sealing is done in at least one of the following ways:

[0043] (a) a rubber seal (O-ring) between parts of the safety device and screws or cold joints (snap) to create pressure and seal against water ingress,

[0044] (b) a silicone casting or epoxy casting to cover the electronic circuits, and

[0045] (c) ultrasonic welding between polymeric parts to prevent water from entering the electronic parts.

[0046] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the camera capturing images of at least one of:

[0047] - pool stripes or markings on the bottom and outside of the pool;

[0048] - track walls and boundaries;

[0049] - floats and / or flags;

[0050] - swimmers in same swimming lane of the swimmer;

[0051] - obstacles or objects interferable during swimming; and

[0052] - movements and swimming style of the swimmer.

[0053] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimming lane detection with cross detection algorithm using camera images receivable in real time of the swimming lane of the swimmer and comparing said camera images with images of the swimming lane to provide the swimmer a safety alert(s).

[0054] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety alert(s) provided when at least one of the following occurs: exceeding limits of a defined swimming lane / track, deviating to the right or left from the center of the defined swimming lane / track or when the swimming lane is divided into two for two swimmers, approaching a wall / track end / buoy or obstacle / foreign objects, getting close to other swimmers, and being in danger of drowning or drifting in the pool / open water.

[0055] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system further providing at least one of:

[0056] - notification(s) of device integrity,

[0057] - notification(s) of power on, and / or power off and status and / or the energy source,

[0058] - permanent or partial feedback of keeping the swimmer on the center of the lane / track,

[0059] - a constant tempo for the swimmer,

[0060] - happy or exciting sounds for increased motivation, and

[0061] - a signal showing that the swimmer has reached pre-defined destinations and goals. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device alerting the swimmer when: - a person jumps into the swimmer’s lane,

[0062] - the swimmer is in danger of drowning,

[0063] - the energy source is running low, and

[0064] - the swimmer approaches the pool walls.

[0065] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, communication between the safety device, the smartphone, and optionally the cloud server is done via wireless communication.

[0066] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the GPS sensor and the camera working together in open water to detect at least one of:

[0067] - a potentially dangerous object and

[0068] - the swimmer deviating from virtual boundaries.

[0069] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the dangerous object is one of a person jumping into the pool, surfboards, SAP, Water jets, and boats using same algorithm.

[0070] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the camera capturing video in real time and warning of objects in the water in real time, and the safety device navigating the swimmer according to the GPS sensor alerting the swimmer based on the camera output.

[0071] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimmer selecting specific points from buoys and markings to create a safe efficient path to a destination.

[0072] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimmer downloading a track and indicating on a virtual map landmarks to be reached during a swim, said landmarks are selected from buoys, markings or physical objects scattered in the water according to which the safety system building a smart swimming track with virtual boundaries to aid the swimmer to reach his destination. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system further comprising a personal trainer usable by all swimmers including visually impaired and elderly people.

[0073] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system examining predetermined goals and objectives of the swimmer, the input camera images and sensory data that are receivable in real time to provide guidance and feedback to the swimmer in real-time via the at least one alerting device. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer providing tailored workout programs and real-time feedback. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer monitoring the swimmer's progress by saving training history and measuring retention rate and progress from training to training and providing instant feedback on at least one of stroke technique, pace, cadence and overall performance. Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, a pre-set training program comprising at least one of:

[0074] (a) number of tracks,

[0075] (b) number of pools, allotments, or a desired swimming distance in the pool / open water,

[0076] (c) training time and break times,

[0077] (d) number of desired swimming styles and their intensity,

[0078] (e) time loop for additional rounds,

[0079] (f) swimming cadence,

[0080] (g) desired number of calories to burn during training,

[0081] (h) improving an existing swimming style and focusing on the swimmer's movements, and

[0082] (i) preset open water routes.

[0083] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer building a long-term training plan with long-term goals and shortterm goals for specific trainings.

[0084] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer allowing for configuring settings, adjusting vibration intensity, and receiving data from the safety device.

[0085] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the data is at least one of - position of the swimmer,

[0086] - distance of the swimmer's from the wall and

[0087] - state of the energy source.

[0088] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, data received in real time from the camera and / or sensors comprise at least one of the following: a. swimming speed, b. swimming cadence c. swimming distance or distance from a desired destination, d. number of pools performed, e. number of styles and movements during swimming, f. number of laps before reaching a wall, g. number of calories burned during swimming, and h. swimming style required or performed and / or feedback to improve the swimming style.

[0089] Furthermore, in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, prior to swimming, the swimmer is setting at least one of the following: type of alert, vibration and / or voice / speech alert,

[0090] - intensity of the alert,

[0091] - swimming in pairs in a single lane or swimming alone, warning distance before reaching a wall,

[0092] - accessibility settings of the safety device, and

[0093] - distance of virtual boundaries in open water.

[0094] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0095] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0096] Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming as well as for warning the swimmer in real time about dangers in the water, pools as well as open water or deviations from the swimming path defined by the swimmer in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0097] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

[0098] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming as well as for warning the swimmer in real time about dangers in the water, pools as well as open water or deviations from the swimming path defined by the swimmer in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

[0099] Fig. 5 illustrates aggregation and training for a first Al model in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0100] Figs. 6A-6B illustrate a pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0101] Fig. 7 illustrates aggregation and training for a second Al model in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0102] Fig. 8 illustrates a personal trainer algorithm in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0103] Fig. 9 illustrates a data aggregation and control module in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0104] Fig. 10 illustrates the CPU activities in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0105] Fig. 11 illustrates the calibration module in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0106] Figs. 12A and 12B are perspective front and rear views of the safety device in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. Fig. 13 illustrates the safety device placed on a user head in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0107] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0108] Fig. 1 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 1000 for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0109] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 1000 comprises a safety device 100, a smart phone 200 and a cloud server 300.

[0110] The safety device 100 designed to rest comfortably on the swimmer's head comprises multiple electronic components such as a camera 102 with image processing capabilities that scans the bottom of the pool / ocean, at least one alerting device, i.e., at least one vibration transmitter 104 and / or at least one audio transmitter 106 and / or at least one bone conduction transducer 107.

[0111] The safety device 100 may further comprise a CPU with communication capabilities 112, a communication module 120, a memory unit 130, and an energy source 140. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device 100 may further comprise an accelerometer and various additional sensors such as Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) 109, a waterproof distance sensor for monitoring swimming conditions, oscillation gyroscope and the like.

[0112] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the smartphone 200 comprises a calibration module 210, a data aggregation and control module 220 and a drowning alert alarm 230.

[0113] The cloud server 300 may comprise a pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330, a personal trainer algorithm 350, a first training module for training a first Al model 320 and a second training module for training a second Al model 340. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the communication module 120 transfers / receives data to / from the safety device 100 to / from the cloud platform 300 through the smartphone 200.

[0114] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the above-described multiple electronic components may be connected to one another via at least one of the following ways:

[0115] (1) via a conductive garment such as a flexible textile strap. The strap may be worn directly on the swimmer’s head and may be worn on top of a swim cap.

[0116] (2) via electronic wiring embedded in a textile garment such as a strap or attached to said garment.

[0117] (3) via wireless communication, for instance, via a Bluetooth component (Transmission of communication information via wireless communication).

[0118] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the front part of the strap may include the camera 102 (referred to as the "eye") positionable above the forehead of the swimmer or anywhere else along the strap. The camera 102 may scan different parameters in real-time during swimming.

[0119] The camera 102 may capture images of various elements such as:

[0120] - Pool markings on the bottom and outside of the pool;

[0121] - Track walls and boundaries;

[0122] - Floats, flags in the pool and the sea;

[0123] - Other swimmers who are in the same lane in the water;

[0124] - Obstacles or objects that can interfere during swimming; and

[0125] - The swimmer's movements and swimming style.

[0126] The information gathered by the camera 102 helps the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 1000 maintain awareness of the swimmer's position and surroundings.

[0127] The at least one alerting device, namely the at least one vibration transmitter 104 and / or the at least one sound transmitter 106 and / or the bone conduction transducer 107 may be positioned on either side or on both sides of the head, near the temples / ears and may provide real-time feedback to the swimmer through bone conduction, vibrations, sounds and the like. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the synchronization of the personal trainer algorithm 350 from the smartphone 200 to the safety device 100 may be carried out before the user enters the water by means of wireless communication.

[0128] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 may use camera images of the swimming lane of the swimmer received in real time and compare such images with images of the defined swimming lane to alert the swimmer whenever he deviates from the marked defined swimming lane.

[0129] The safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 1000 aggregates the camera images, processes and analyzes the images using image analysis on-line algorithm and processes the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 to analyze the bottom of the pool based on the images and provides alerts to the swimmer based on the aforementioned prediction.

[0130] An accompanied application on a smart phone 200 comprises computerized and data aggregation module 220, and a calibration module 210.

[0131] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the calibration module 210 checks signal quality parameters for alerting the swimmer to adjust position of the safety device 100 for improving signal quality.

[0132] The safety device 100 may communicate with the swimmer in real time and help the swimmer focus and reach his goals.

[0133] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device 100 may alert the swimmer in various scenarios. The alerts may include safety or danger notifications, for instance, when:

[0134] A. exceeding the limits of the defined swimming lane / track.

[0135] B. deviating to the right or left from the center of the swimming lane / track or when the swimming lane is divided into two (when two swimmers swim in the same swimming lane).

[0136] C. approaching a wall / track end / buoy or obstacle / foreign objects.

[0137] D. getting close to other swimmers. E. being in danger of drowning or drifting in the pool and the sea.

[0138] By such alerts the swimmer receives the indication of his position in relation to the swimming lane and / or to another swimmer and / or to seashore and / or to various objects in the pool such as walls, buoys and the like.

[0139] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device 100 may provide at least one of the following:

[0140] A. notifications of device integrity.

[0141] B. notifications of power on, power off and status or the energy source.

[0142] C. permanent or partial feedback of keeping the swimmer on the center of the track.

[0143] D. a constant tempo for the swimmer.

[0144] E. happy or exciting sounds for increased motivation.

[0145] F. a signal showing that the swimmer has reached pre-defined desired destinations and goals.

[0146] According to some embodiments of the present invention, when the swimmer deviates from the left of the center of the lane, an alert such as a vibration or sound may be received on one side of his head, for example, on the left side that warns him to swim slightly to the right of the center of the lane.

[0147] When the swimmer deviates to the right from the center of the lane, he may receive a vibration or sound on the other side of his head, for instance, the right side that warns him to swim slightly to the left of the center of the lane (which side will vibrate depends on swimmer’s preference set on the smart phone 200).

[0148] When the swimmer approaches the edge of the pool (walls of the pool), the safety device 100 may alert both sides of the head using alerts such as, for instance, vibration and / or sound alerts to convey a clear warning that the end of the lane has been reached.

[0149] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device 100 may identify dangers during swimming such as, for instance, in the following scenarios:

[0150] - when a person jumps into the swimmer’s lane, the safety device 100 may detect a foreign object in the lane and alert the swimmer to stop swimming. - when a swimmer is in danger of drowning, for example, when the swimmer stops swimming / moving, the drowning alert alarm 230 will be activated to generate a loud siren.

[0151] - when the energy source is running low and will not enable the swimmer to continue swimming.

[0152] - When the swimmer approaches the edge of the pool (pool walls), the safety device 100 may alert both sides of the head using vibration and / or the sound to convey a clear warning that the swimmer reached the end of the lane.

[0153] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, swimmers may swim alone or with others in the same lane, receive alerts when approaching obstacles or dangers, and adjust the alert intensity and position.

[0154] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, communication between the safety device 100, the smartphone 200 and optionally the cloud server 300 may be done via wireless communication such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and the like. Fig. 2 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming as well as for warning the swimmer in real time about dangers in the water, pools as well as open water or deviations from the swimming path defined by the swimmer in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0155] As seen in the figure, the safety device 100 further comprises additional safety means such as navigation, for instance, a GPS sensor 108 for open water swimmers.

[0156] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the GPS sensor 108 may be positioned on the back, on either side, or on both sides of the head.

[0157] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the GPS sensor 108 is best placed on the back of the head because the back of head may be kept at the surface of the water most of the time and therefore the GPS reception is maximum. Thus, in addition to swimming in pools, the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 may be used to define swimming tracks in the open water - the GPS 108 and the camera 102 may work together in open water and detect if there is a potentially dangerous object such as breakwaters, rocks, and the like, or if swimmers deviate from the virtual boundaries ensuring the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 warns the swimmer in advance and helps him to avoid such obstacles. Specifically, the camera 102 may capture the video in real time and may warn of objects in the water in real time, and the safety device 100 may navigate the swimmer according to the GPS sensor 108 and may alert the swimmer based on the camera output.

[0158] With the GPS 108, swimmers may select specific points such as, for instance, buoys or markings, to create a safe efficient path to the destination - the swimmer may define a path / track using GPS and may define virtual sector boundaries in open water, proactively before he enters the water.

[0159] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimmer may be able to 'download' a track that other users have marked / created.

[0160] The swimmer indicates on a virtual map made available by the application the landmarks he wants to reach during the swim, these points can be buoys, markings or physical objects scattered in the water, according to which the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 will build a smart swimming track with virtual boundaries and help the swimmer in the direction to the destination. The same swimming route may be used as the safest and shortest route to the destination.

[0161] When the swimmer deviates from these virtual boundaries, he will receive a vibration, sound / speech alert that may warn him about it. Also, when the swimmer reaches each of the waypoints he defined and / or the end of the swim, he will receive a notification. On the map in the application, the swimmer may be able to enter reference points that may be dangerous and about which the user should be warned, for example, breakwaters, rocks, boats etc. The safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 may be able to warn of these points before the swimmer reaches them and may create a path away from such dangerous points. The safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 2000 may as well warn of moving obstacles approaching the swimmer such as other swimmers, a person jumping into the pool, Surfboards, SAP, Water jets, boats using the same algorithm and the Hke.Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 3000 for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

[0162] As seen in the figure, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330, the personal trainer algorithm 350, the first training module for training a first Al model 320 and the second training module for training a second Al model 340 are part of the smartphone 200.

[0163] In this case, data is not transferred to / from a cloud and image processing, data analysis and all calculations may be performed by the smartphone 200.

[0164] Fig. 4 is a schematic illustration of a safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 4000 for providing safety, independence, and increased motivation for swimming as well as for warning the swimmer in real time about dangers in the water, pools as well as open water or deviations from the swimming path defined by the swimmer in accordance with other embodiments of the present invention.

[0165] As in Fig.3, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330, the personal trainer algorithm 350, the first training module for training a first Al model 320 and the second training module for training a second Al model 340 are part of the smartphone 200, thus, data is not transferred to / from a cloud and image processing, data analysis and all calculations may be performed by the smartphone 200.

[0166] In addition, the safety device 100 further comprises a GPS sensor 108 which may be positioned on the back, on either side or on both sides of the head.

[0167] Fig. 5 illustrates aggregation and training for a first Al model 320 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0168] In accordance with the present invention, in the training stage, images are collected from a camera placed on a swimmer’s head (3202), and the images are used for training an Al model for swimming lane detections with a cross detection at the end of the pool. More specifically, for training the model to recognize patterns and features in the images that indicate the swimmer's position and the presence of the ’’Turning T” or other relative positioning, based on the tagged dataset used for training (3204). Figs. 6A-6B illustrate a pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0169] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, input images are collected continuously in real time from a camera mounted on the swimmer's head (3302).

[0170] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, image processing techniques may be applied to enhance the contrast and make the line and cross more distinct from the background. OpenCV functions may be used to apply color thresholding or other techniques to segment the line and cross pixels from the rest of the image (3304).

[0171] After the line and cross segmentation, the pre-trained model for road lane detection is incorporated -the Al model trained for swimming lane detection, including cross detection at the end of the pool is used (3306).

[0172] The segmented line and cross pixels are taken as input and the position of the lane and the presence of the cross are detected.

[0173] In order to detect lanes, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 may use Canny Edge detection using transformations and polynomial regression (3308).

[0174] Based on the predicted lane position and cross detection, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 predicts the swimmer's position on the lane and proximity to the wall - the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 processes the image and predicts the swimmer's position on the lane and whether a cross is detected at the end of the pool.

[0175] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 recognizes patterns and features in the images that indicate the swimmer's position and the presence of the cross, based on the tagged dataset used for training (3310).

[0176] At least one of the vibration / sound / conduction functions may be activated to keep the swimmer on track or to signal that he should turn around. Based on the predicted location and detection of the “Turning T” or other relative positioning, an appropriate signal may be sent to the vibration and / or sound transmitters and / or bone conduction transducer to indicate the swimmer's location and the presence of the “Turning T” or other relative positioning (3312).

[0177] The safety device 100 knows how to identify danger during swimming - if a person jumps into the user's swimming lane, the safety devices 100 may detect the object and activate an emergency stop that may vibrate and / or generate sound and / or produce a conduction signal to alert the swimmer to stop swimming (The safety devices 100 may vibrate and / or produce a sound and / or produce a conduction signal on both the right and left sides several times) (3314).

[0178] When the battery runs low, the safety device may vibrate multiple times, for instance twice, and the swimmer may not be able to continue using the safety device for swimming (3316).

[0179] When swimming in a pair in one swimming lane, the swimming lane can be divided into two sides, the right side and the left side, with the marking line in the pool being the buffer between them.

[0180] Each swimmer may swim on one side of the divided lane (right or left) or on the same side in a circular fashion (right-hand attachments only in round- trip swimming).

[0181] With the help of the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330, it is possible to swim together with another person in the same lane and to be alerted when the swimmer approaches the other swimmer and when he exceeds the half of the lane according to the central marking line in the pool (3318).

[0182] In the same way that the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 detects the line when the swimmer is above it, it can detect the line when the swimmer is at a certain distance to the right or left of the line - and so before the swimmer reaches the buffer line or the buoy - he will receive a warning about this.

[0183] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 may communicate with the swimmer in real time and help the swimmer reach his goals and focus on them (real time digital personal trainer).

[0184] Fig. 7 illustrates aggregation and training for a second Al model 340 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0185] In accordance with the present invention, in the training stage, images are collected from a camera and sensors placed on a swimmer’s head (3402); and a large data set of path images is used to train a second Al model 340 for a personal trainer - the model is trained to provide real-time guidance and feedback based on data received in real-time from the camera and / or sensors and / or based on the swimmer’s predetermined goals and objectives (3404).

[0186] Data received in real time from the camera and / or sensors may include at least one of the following:

[0187] A. the swimming speed.

[0188] B. the swimming distance or distance from the desired destination.

[0189] C. the number of pools performed.

[0190] E. the number of styles and movements during each style during swimming.

[0191] F. the number of laps or reaching the wall.

[0192] G. the number of calories burned during swimming.

[0193] H. the swimming style required or performed and / or feedback to improve the style.

[0194] Fig. 8 illustrates a personal trainer algorithm 350 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0195] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer algorithm 350 may be used by all swimmers including visually impaired and elderly people.

[0196] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimmer’s predetermined goals and objectives are examined (3502); input images and sensory data are taken in real time from a camera and sensors mounted on the swimmer's head (3504); and real-time guidance and feedback is provided via vibration / voice based on the swimmer’s predetermined goals and objectives and real-time data received from the camera and / or sensors (3506). In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer algorithm 350 may enhance the swimmers' training experience by offering tailored workout programs and real-time feedback.

[0197] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, swimmers may set specific training goals, such as the number of laps, distance, cadence, swimming styles, and calorie bum targets. During swimming sessions, the personal trainer algorithm 350 may monitor the swimmer's progress by saving training history and measuring retention rate and progress from training to training and provide instant feedback on stroke technique, pace, and overall performance.

[0198] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the personal trainer algorithm 350 may build a long-term training plan with long-term goals and shortterm goals for specific trainings.

[0199] The personal trainer algorithm 350 may allow for configuring settings, adjusting vibration intensity, and receiving data from the safety device 100, such as the position of the swimmer, sensor readings (e.g., acceleration sensors) such as the distance of the swimmer's turn from the wall etc. as well as the state of the energy source.

[0200] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the swimmer may set different goals and objectives for training and / or determine a complete swimming training according to his preferences and from a database of trainings updated by the manufacturer and / or other swimmers.

[0201] A pre-set training program may comprise at least one of:

[0202] (a) number of tracks,

[0203] (b) number of pools, allotments, or a desired swimming distance in the pool / open water,

[0204] (c) training time and break times,

[0205] (d) number of desired swimming styles and their intensity,

[0206] (e) time loop for additional rounds,

[0207] (f) desired number of calories to bum during training,

[0208] (g) improving an existing swimming style and focusing on the swimmer's movements, and

[0209] (e) preset open water routes. The swimmer may define the training or goals and receive them in real time during swimming by voice indication, vibrations or speech when he reaches or does not reach the destination he defined.

[0210] Fig. 9 illustrates a data aggregation and control module 220 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0211] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the smartphone application, data aggregation and control module 220, provides several options for the swimmer. Specifically, according to the swimmer's preferences, he can set at least one of the following:

[0212] - the type of alert, e.g., vibration and / or voice / speech alert and the like.

[0213] - swimming in pairs in the same lane or swimming alone.

[0214] - the intensity of the alert felt by the swimmer.

[0215] - the position of the vibration - left or right according to the deviation or against the direction of the deviation.

[0216] - the warning distance before reaching a wall or an obstacle.

[0217] - accessibility setings of the application or product - full or partial speech, text sizes and colors.

[0218] - the distance of the virtual cut-off limits in open water (2202).

[0219] The data aggregation and control module 220 collects data from the safety device 100 and optionally transfers the data to the cloud server 300 (2204).

[0220] The data aggregation and control module 220 collects data either from the cloud server 300 or from the smartphone 200 and transfers the data to the safety device 100.

[0221] Fig. 10 illustrates the CPU 112 activities in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0222] As seen in the figure, the CPU processes the camera images and / or data received from the GPS sensor (1120).

[0223] The CPU compresses the data and optionally filters the data (1122).

[0224] The CPU saves partial data to local memory (1124).

[0225] The CPU applies the pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm 330 to analyze the camera images and GPS data and instruct the swimmer accordingly (1126). Fig. 11 illustrates the calibration module 210 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0226] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, camera images and / or GPS data are collected and signal processing is performed on the data (2102).

[0227] Signal strength quality, intensity, continuity of measurements are checked (2104). Figs. 12A and 12B are front and rear views of the safety device 100 in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0228] This figure shows possible locations of the various components of the safety device 100.

[0229] As seen in the figures, the safety device 100 comprises:

[0230] - front body ("eye") 5006, which may be placed above the forehead or anywhere else

[0231] - inside the front body 5006 is a camera 102 whose function is to scan different parameters during swimming, in real time.

[0232] - at least one alert body and preferably two lateral alert bodies ("feedback") 5004A-B that may be located on both sides of the head, left and right, in the temples or around the ear or anywhere else - their function is to transmit various alerts such as: vibrations, sounds, speech and the like to the swimmer during swimming.

[0233] - rear body ("brain") 5002 may be located in the region of the occipital bone or anywhere else. The rear body 5002 contains components shown in Figs. 1-4, namely the CPU 112, the communication module 120, the memory unit 130, and the energy source 140.

[0234] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, strap 5008 connects the electronic components described above. The strap 5008 may be flexible and in different configurations and may be made of a variety of elastic materials resistant to the water environment, for example, the pool or the sea, and intended for contact with the skin.

[0235] The strap 5008 may be made of silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber compounds, flexible textiles and the like.

[0236] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the multiple electronic components, namely the front body 5006, the two alert bodies 5004 A-B, and the rear body 5002 are threaded onto the strap 5008 and communicate with each other.

[0237] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the transfer of information can be carried out in 3 configurations:

[0238] 1) through electronic wiring which is embedded in the strap or adjacent to it.

[0239] 2) via transferring information wirelessly with the help of a Bluetooth component.

[0240] 3) via transferring information using a conductive textile fabric.

[0241] According to certain embodiments of the present invention, the front body 5006 may be made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other to form a seal against ingress of water into the body.

[0242] The inner part of the front body 5006 is designed in a concave shape to fit the swimmer and the swimmer’s comfort and prevent slipping or shifting of the front body 5600 while swimming.

[0243] The front body 5006 may be made of polymeric materials such as, for example, polypropylene PP, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile TPU, polyurethane, a combination thereof and the like.

[0244] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the inner part of the front body 5006 comes into contact with the swimmer's forehead and may be made of a flexible material such as, for instance, silicones, polymers, elastomers, different rubber or sponge compounds, a combination thereof and the like.

[0245] In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, wherein side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B each containing at least one alerting device are attached to said strap.

[0246] According to some of the embodiments of the present invention, the side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B may be identical in their function and dimensions, the side bodies may be made of a rigid shell comprised of one or multiple components connected to each other and forming a seal against water ingress into the body.

[0247] According to some embodiments of the present invention, the side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B may be made of materials designed for a water environment, resistant to water penetration and resistant to cold and heat (temperature between -40 and 120 degrees Celsius). The side bodies (left and right) 5004 A-B may be made of a variety of different polymeric materials such as polypropylene PP, Polycarbonate PC, Acrylonitrile ABS, Polyurethane TPU a combination thereof and the like.

[0248] The inner part of the two side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B may be made of a variety of flexible materials such as silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber or sponge compounds, a combination thereof and the like.

[0249] The inner part of the side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B comes into contact with the swimmer's head and prevents the body from sliding or moving during swimming. The side bodies (left and right) 5004A-B may be located on the sides of the head in the areas of the temple or ear bones and skull. The alerting devices in said side bodies work through vibrations and / or sounds that pass through the bones of the skull and are not inserted into the inner ear.

[0250] The rear body 5002 may be made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other and produce a seal against water ingress into the body.

[0251] The rear body 5002 may be made of a variety of different polymeric materials intended for a water environment, resistant to water penetration and resistant to cold and heat (temperature between 40 and 120 degrees Celsius), such as polypropylene PP, polycarbonate PC, acrylonitrile ABS, TPU polyurethane, a combination thereof, and the like.

[0252] The rear body comprises the on and off button of the system or a touch screen that allows control and operation of the safety device 100. The power button or the touch screen are resistant to water penetration.

[0253] The inner part of the rear body 5002 comes into contact with the swimmer's head, therefore, it may be made of a variety of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber or sponge compounds, a combination thereof and the like.

[0254] The inner part of the back body 5002 may be arched to create fit and comfort for the swimmer and to prevent the rear body from sliding or moving during swimming. In accordance with some embodiments of the present invention, the inside of the rear body is made of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber or sponge compounds, a combination thereof and the like. According to some embodiments of the present invention, the safety device 100 is intended for use under the surface of the water up to a high depth such as 10 meters, around a pool and open water(s) and is neatly assembled to prevent the penetration of water and salts into the electronic components in the system.

[0255] The sealing may be done in a variety of ways such as:

[0256] (1) A rubber seal (O-ring) between the parts or shells of the safety device 100 and the use of screws or cold joints (snap) to create pressure and seal against water ingress. This form allows the reopening of the product.

[0257] (2) Casting a silicone or epoxy material that covers only the electronic circuits and allows water to penetrate polymeric parts but prevents water from penetrating the electrical components.

[0258] (3) Ultrasonic welding between the polymeric parts which prevents water from entering the electronic parts.

[0259] Fig. 13 illustrates the safety device 100 placed on a user head in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention.

[0260] The figure visualizes the placement of the safety device 100 on the user’s head.

[0261] As seen in the figure, the strap 5008 may be worn on top of a hat or directly on the head and the length of the strap 5008 may be adjusted with the help of size selectors. In the above description, an embodiment is an example or implementation of the invention. The various appearances of "one embodiment”, "an embodiment" or "some embodiments" do not necessarily all refer to the same embodiments.

[0262] Although various features of the invention may be described in the context of a single embodiment, the features may also be provided separately or in any suitable combination. Conversely, although the invention may be described herein in the context of separate embodiments for clarity, the invention may also be implemented in a single embodiment.

[0263] Furthermore, it is to be understood that the invention can be carried out or practiced in various ways and that the invention can be implemented in embodiments other than the ones outlined in the description above. The invention is not limited to those diagrams or to the corresponding descriptions. For example, flow need not move through each illustrated box or state, or in exactly the same order as illustrated and described.

[0264] Meanings of technical and scientific terms used herein are to be commonly understood as by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the invention belongs, unless otherwise defined.

[0265] The system of the present invention may include, according to certain embodiments of the invention, machine readable memory containing or otherwise storing a program of instructions which, when executed by the machine, implements some or all of the apparatus, methods, features and functionalities of the invention shown and described herein. Alternatively or in addition, the apparatus of the present invention may include, according to certain embodiments of the invention, a program as above which may be written in any conventional programming language, and optionally a machine for executing the program such as but not limited to a general purpose computer which may optionally be configured or activated in accordance with the teachings of the present invention. Any of the teachings incorporated herein may wherever suitable operate on signals representative of physical objects or substances.

[0266] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions, utilizing terms such as, "processing", "computing", "estimating", "selecting", "ranking", "grading", "calculating", "determining", "generating", "reassessing", "classifying", "generating", "producing", "stereo-matching", "registering", "detecting", "associating", "superimposing", "obtaining" or the like, refer to the action and / or processes of a computer or computing system, or processor or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and / or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities within the computing system's registers and / or memories, into other data similarly represented as physical quantities within the computing system's memories, registers or other such information storage, transmission or display devices. The term "computer" should be broadly construed to cover any kind of electronic device with data processing capabilities, including, by way of non-limiting example, personal computers, servers, computing system, communication devices, processors (e.g. l ' l digital signal processor (DSP), microcontrollers, field programmable gate array (FPGA), application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.) and other electronic computing devices.

[0267] The present invention may be described, merely for clarity, in terms of terminology specific to particular programming languages, operating systems, browsers, system versions, individual products, and the like. It will be appreciated that this terminology is intended to convey general principles of operation clearly and briefly, by way of example, and is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to any particular programming language, operating system, browser, system version, or individual product.

[0268] It is appreciated that software components of the present invention including programs and data may, if desired, be implemented in ROM (read only memory) form including CD-ROMs, EPROMs and EEPROMs, or may be stored in any other suitable typically non-transitory computer-readable medium such as but not limited to disks of various kinds, cards of various kinds and RAMs. Components described herein as software may, alternatively, be implemented wholly or partly in hardware, if desired, using conventional techniques. Conversely, components described herein as hardware may, alternatively, be implemented wholly or partly in software, if desired, using conventional techniques.

[0269] Included in the scope of the present invention, inter alia, are electromagnetic signals carrying computer-readable instructions for performing any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; machine- readable instructions for performing any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; program storage devices readable by machine, tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the machine to perform any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; a computer program product comprising a computer useable medium having computer readable program code, such as executable code, having embodied therein, and / or including computer readable program code for performing, any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; any technical effects brought about by any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, when performed in any suitable order; any suitable apparatus or device or combination of such, programmed to perform, alone or in combination, any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; electronic devices each including a processor and a cooperating input device and / or output device and operative to perform in software any steps shown and described herein; information storage devices or physical records, such as disks or hard drives, causing a computer or other device to be configured so as to carry out any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order; a program pre-stored e.g. in memory or on an information network such as the Internet, before or after being downloaded, which embodies any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order, and the method of uploading or downloading such, and a system including server / s and / or client / s for using such; and hardware which performs any or all of the steps of any of the methods shown and described herein, in any suitable order, either alone or in conjunction with software. Any computer-readable or machine-readable media described herein is intended to include non-transitory computer- or machine-readable media.

[0270] Any computations or other forms of analysis described herein may be performed by a suitable computerized method. Any step described herein may be computer- implemented. The invention shown and described herein may include (a) using a computerized method to identify a solution to any of the problems or for any of the objectives described herein, the solution optionally include at least one of a decision, an action, a product, a service or any other information described herein that impacts, in a positive manner, a problem or objectives described herein; and (b) outputting the solution.

[0271] The scope of the present invention is not limited to structures and functions specifically described herein and is also intended to include devices which have the capacity to yield a structure, or perform a function, described herein, such that even though users of the device may not use the capacity, they are, if they so desire, able to modify the device to obtain the structure or function. Features of the present invention which are described in the context of separate embodiments may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. For example, a system embodiment is intended to include a corresponding process embodiment. Also, each system embodiment is intended to include a server centered "view" or client centered "view", or "view" from any other node of the system, of the entire functionality of the system, computer-readable medium, apparatus, including only those functionalities performed at that server or client or node.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A safety system for swimmers including visually impaired and elderly swimmers comprising:(a) a safety device designed to rest comfortably on the swimmer's head, said safety device comprised of electronic components including a camera that scans the bottom of the pool / open water, at least one alerting device to provide real-time feedback to the swimmer, CPU, memory, energy source and a communication module;(b) data aggregation and control module for aggregating data received from said camera in real time, and(c) an Al model for analyzing the data in real time and providing alerts to the swimmer based on said prediction, whereby the camera capturing video in real time, and said safety device alerting the swimmer based on the camera output in real time.

2. The safety system of claim 1 further comprising an additional electronic component, a GPS sensor for open water swimmers, said safety device navigating the swimmer according to the GPS sensor.

3. The safety system of any one of claims 1 and 2, wherein the at least one alerting device is a vibration transmitter, and / or audio transmitter, and / or a bone conduction transmitter.

4. The safety system of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the data aggregation and control module is implemented on a smart phone.

5. The safety system of any one of claims 1-4, wherein a drowning alert alarm is implemented on a smart phone.

6. The safety system of any one of claims 1-5, further comprising a calibration module for checking signal quality parameters for alerting the swimmer to adjust position of the safety device for improving signal quality.

7. The safety system of any one of claims 1-6, wherein a pool swimming lane and open water predefined path detection with cross detection algorithm is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

8. The safety system of any one of claims 1-7, wherein a module for training a first Al model is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

9. The safety system of any one of claims 1-8, wherein a personal trainer algorithm is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

10. The safety system of any one of claims 1-9, wherein a module for training a second Al model module is implemented either on a cloud or on a smart phone.

11. The safety system of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the electronic components are connected to one another via at least one of:- a conductive garment;- electronic wiring either embedded in or attached to a textile garment ; and- wireless communication.

12. The safety system of claim 11, wherein the conductive garment is a strip worn directly on the swimmer’s head or on top of a swim cap.

13. The safety system of claim 12, wherein the strip is made of a material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, flexible textiles and a combination thereof.

14. The safety system of claim 12, wherein a front body containing said camera is attached to said strip, said camera positionable above the forehead of the swimmer.

15. The safety system of claim 14, wherein said front body is made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other to form a seal against ingress of water into the body.

16. The safety system of any one of claims 14-15. Wherein the front body is made of polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, polycarbonate, acrylonitrile TPU, polyurethane, and a combination thereof.

17. The safety system of claim 14, wherein the front body having an inner part designed in a concave shape to fit the swimmer and prevent slipping or shifting of the front body while swimming.

18. The safety system of claim 16, wherein the front body’s inner part is made of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

19. The safety system of claim 12, wherein at least one side body is attached to said strip, each of said at least one side body containing at least one alerting device.

20. The safety system of claim 19, wherein the at least one side body is made of a rigid shell comprised of one or multiple components connected to each other and forming a seal against water ingress into the at least one side body.

21. The safety system of any one of claims 19-20, wherein the at least one side body is made of polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, Polycarbonate PC, Acrylonitrile ABS, Polyurethane TPU, and a combination thereof.

22. The safety system of any one of claims 19-21, wherein the inner part of the at least one side body is made of flexible materials selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, rubber compounds, sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

23. The safety system of any one of claims 19-22, wherein each one of the at least one side body is located on the side of the swimmer’s head.

24. The safety system of claim 12, wherein a rear body is attached to said strip, said rear body containing the CPU, the communication module, and the memory unit.

25. The safety system of claim 24, wherein the rear body is made of a rigid shell comprised of a single or multiple components connected to each other to produce a seal against water ingress into the rear body.

26. The safety system of claim 25, wherein the rear body is made of polymeric materials resistant to water penetration, said polymeric materials selected from polypropylene PP, polycarbonate PC, acrylonitrile ABS, TPU polyurethane, and a combination thereof.

27. The safety system of any one of claims 24-26, wherein the inside of the rear body is arched to create fit and comfort for the swimmer and to prevent the rear body from sliding or moving during swimming.

28. The safety system of any one of claims 24-27, wherein the inside of the rear body is made of a flexible material selected from silicones, polymers, elastomers, various rubber or sponge compounds, and a combination thereof.

29. The safety system of any one of claims 16-28, wherein to prevent penetration of water and salts into the electronic components, sealing is done in at least one of the following ways:(a) a rubber seal (O-ring) between parts of the safety device and screws or cold joints (snap) to create pressure and seal against water ingress,(b) a silicone casting or epoxy casting to cover the electronic circuits, and(c) ultrasonic welding between polymeric parts to prevent water from entering the electronic parts.30.The safety system of claim 1, wherein the camera capturing images of at least one of:- pool stripes or markings on the bottom and outside of the pool;- track walls and boundaries;- floats and / or flags;- swimmers in same swimming lane of the swimmer;- obstacles or objects interferable during swimming; and- movements and swimming style of the swimmer.

31. The safety system of claim 7, wherein the swimming lane detection with cross detection algorithm using camera images receivable in real time of the swimming lane of the swimmer and comparing said camera images with images of the swimming lane to provide the swimmer a safety alert(s).

32. The safety system of claim 31, wherein said safety alert(s) provided when at least one of the following occurs: exceeding limits of a defined swimming lane / track, deviating to the right or left from the center of the defined swimming lane / track or when the swimming lane is divided into two for two swimmers, approaching a wall / track end / buoy or obstacle / foreign objects, getting close to other swimmers, and being in danger of drowning or drifting in the pool / open water.

33. The safety system of claim 1 further providing at least one of:- notification(s) of device integrity,- notification(s) of power on, and / or power off and status and / or the energy source,- permanent or partial feedback of keeping the swimmer on the center of the lane / track,- a constant tempo for the swimmer,- happy or exciting sounds for increased motivation, and- a signal showing that the swimmer has reached pre-defined destinations and goals.34.The safety system of claim 1, wherein said safety device alerting the swimmer when:- a person jumps into the swimmer’s lane,- the swimmer is in danger of drowning,- the energy source is running low, and- the swimmer approaches the pool walls.

35. The safety system of claim 1, wherein communication between the safety device, the smartphone, and optionally the cloud server is done via wireless communication.

36. The safety system of claim 2, wherein the GPS sensor and the camera working together in open water to detect at least one of:- a potentially dangerous object and- the swimmer deviating from virtual boundaries.

37. The safety system of claim 36, wherein the dangerous object is one of a person jumping into the pool, surfboards, SAP, Water jets, and boats using same algorithm.

38. The safety system of claim 36, wherein the camera capturing video in real time and warning of objects in the water in real time, and the safety device navigating the swimmer according to the GPS sensor alerting the swimmer based on the camera output.

39. The safety system of claim 36, wherein the swimmer selecting specific points from buoys and markings to create a safe efficient path to a destination.

40. The safety system of claim 39, wherein the swimmer downloading a track and indicating on a virtual map landmarks to be reached during a swim, said landmarks are selected from buoys, markings or physical objects scattered in the water according to which the safety system building a smart swimming track with virtual boundaries to aid the swimmer to reach his destination.

41. The safety system of claim 1 further comprising a personal trainer usable by all swimmers including visually impaired and elderly people.

42. The safety system of claim 41, wherein the safety system examining predetermined goals and objectives of the swimmer, the input camera images andsensory data that are receivable in real time to provide guidance and feedback to the swimmer in real-time via the at least one alerting device.

43. The safety system of any one of claims 41-42, wherein the personal trainer providing tailored workout programs and real-time feedback.

44. The safety system of claim 43, wherein the personal trainer monitoring the swimmer's progress by saving training history and measuring retention rate and progress from training to training and providing instant feedback on at least one of stroke technique, pace, cadence and overall performance.

45. The safety system of claim 43, wherein a pre-set training program comprising at least one of:(a) number of tracks,(b) number of pools, allotments, or a desired swimming distance in the pool / open water,(c) training time and break times,(d) number of desired swimming styles and their intensity,(e) time loop for additional rounds,(f) swimming cadence,(g) desired number of calories to burn during training,(h) improving an existing swimming style and focusing on the swimmer's movements, and(i) preset open water routes.

46. The safety system of any one of claims 26-30, wherein the personal trainer building a long-term training plan with long-term goals and short-term goals for specific trainings.

47. The safety system of any one of claims 41-46, wherein the personal trainer allowing for configuring settings, adjusting vibration intensity, and receiving data from the safety device.

48. The safety system of claim 47, wherein said data is at least one of- position of the swimmer,- distance of the swimmer's from the wall and- state of the energy source.

49. The safety system of claim 32, wherein data received in real time from the camera and / or sensors comprise at least one of the following: a. swimming speed, b. swimming cadence c. swimming distance or distance from a desired destination, d. number of pools performed, e. number of styles and movements during swimming, f. number of laps before reaching a wall, g. number of calories burned during swimming, and h. swimming style required or performed and / or feedback to improve the swimming style.

50. The safety system of any one of claims 1-49, wherein prior to swimming, the swimmer is setting at least one of the following:- type of alert, vibration and / or voice / speech alert,- intensity of the alert,- swimming in pairs in a single lane or swimming alone,- warning distance before reaching a wall,- accessibility settings of the safety device, and- distance of virtual boundaries in open water.

Images