Wearable warning sensor apparatus, systems and methods thereof

Abstract

A wearable sensor and proximity warning system for participants in sporting events. The system can include a first wearable apparatus removably coupled to a first user and a second wearable apparatus removably coupled to a second user. The first wearable apparatus and second wearable apparatus can be communicatively coupled to a network. Each wearable apparatus includes a power source, a feedback sensor and a transceiver. The transceiver of a first wearable apparatus can communicate with the network, the transceiver of the second wearable apparatus, or both. A processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the network. The system can utilize one or more modules. A movement and location analysis module configured to recognize and record the locations of the first wearable apparatus and the second wearable apparatuses movements and speeds throughout a pre-determined period of time and within a designated area.

Description

WEARABLE WARNING SENSOR APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS THEREOFSPECIFICATIONCROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] Patent Application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application 63 / 594,071 filed October 30, 2023, the disclosure of which is considered part of the disclosure of this application and is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The invention relates generally to a wearable warning sensor. More particularly, the invention relates to a wearable apparatus configured to send a warning to a wearer to avoid collisions during a sporting event.BACKGROUND

[0003] Currently there are a number of solutions for preventing collisions that result in injury during a sporting event, such as a baseball game. One of these solutions attempts to utilize player awareness, but this solution fails to meet the needs of the market because the players can become distracted during the game. Another solution attempts to use pre-practiced maneuvers, but this solution is similarly unable to meet the needs of the market because not all situations and directions of the ball are predictable.

[0004] There exists a need for an improved apparatus that can prevent accidental collisions resulting in injury during a baseball game. Furthermore, it would also be advantageous to have an apparatus operable while the user wears it during the game. Still further, it would be advantageous to have an apparatus that can use artificial intelligence (Al) technology to track the wearer location / speed and to provide warnings to the wearer remotely. The apparatus ofthe present disclosure can fulfill an unmet need by providing a wearable apparatus to prevent accidental collisions during a baseball game.BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In one aspect, a wearable sensor of the present disclosure can include an adjustable bracelet strap, a wearable sensor, a vibration module, and a light indicator. The apparatus is configured with a vibration warning sensor to warn the wearer and prevent accidental collisions. The apparatus can be used to prevent accidental collisions of baseball players during a game. The apparatus may use Al technology to track a player's location and speed on the field and to remotely send warnings when possible collisions might happen.

[0006] In another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a proximity warning system for participants in sporting events. The system can include a first wearable apparatus removably coupled to a first user and a second wearable apparatus removably coupled to a second user. The first wearable apparatus and second wearable apparatus can be communicatively coupled to a network. Each wearable apparatus includes a power source, a feedback sensor and a transceiver. The transceiver of a first wearable apparatus can communicate with the network, the transceiver of the second wearable apparatus, or both. A processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the network. The system can utilize one or more modules. A movement and location analysis module configured to recognize and record the locations of the first wearable apparatus and the second wearable apparatuses movements and speeds throughout a pre-determined period of time and within a designated area. A warning signal module having one or more threshold values for each of the first wearable apparatus and second wearable apparatus. The warning signal module can transmit a signal to one or more of the first or second wearable apparatus when a threshold value is reached.

[0007] The invention now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are intended to be read in conjunction with both this summary, the detailed description and any preferred and / or particular embodiments specifically discussed or otherwise disclosed. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather,24868-3645-2083, v. 7these embodiments are provided by way of illustration only and so that this disclosure will be thorough, complete and will fully convey the full scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] Fig. 1A is a side view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0009] Fig. IB is a profile view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0010] Fig. 1C is a top view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0011] Fig. ID is a bottom view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0012] Fig. IE is a top perspective view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. IF is a bottom perspective view illustration of an exemplary embodiment of the wearable apparatus of the present disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 2 is a block diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a system of the present disclosure having one or more wearable apparatuses of the present disclosure.

[0015] Fig. 3 is a diagram illustrating a plurality of exemplary embodiments of the apparatus utilizing an exemplary embodiment of the system of the present disclosure within a predetermined area.

[0016] Fig. 4 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a method of providing player safety utilizing an exemplary embodiment of a system of the present disclosure.

[0017] Fig. 5 is a diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a method of providing collision warning utilizing an exemplary embodiment of a system of the present disclosure.34868-3645-2083, v. 7DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The following detailed description includes references to the accompanying drawings, which forms a part of the detailed description. The drawings show, by way of illustration, specific embodiments in which the invention may be practiced. These embodiments, which are also referred to herein as "examples," are described in enough detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention. The embodiments may be combined, other embodiments may be utilized, or structural, and logical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention. The following detailed description is, therefore, not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0019] Before the present invention of this disclosure is described in such detail, however, it is to be understood that this invention is not limited to particular variations set forth and may, of course, vary. Various changes may be made to the invention described and equivalents may be substituted without departing from the true spirit and scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation, material, composition of matter, process, process act(s) or step(s), to the objective(s), spirit or scope of the present invention. All such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the disclosure made herein.

[0020] Unless otherwise indicated, the words and phrases presented in this document have their ordinary meanings to one of skill in the art. Such ordinary meanings can be obtained by reference to their use in the art and by reference to general and scientific dictionaries.

[0021] References in the specification to "one embodiment" indicate that the embodiment described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.44868-3645-2083, v. 7

[0022] The following explanations of certain terms are meant to be illustrative rather than exhaustive. These terms have their ordinary meanings given by usage in the art and in addition include the following explanations.

[0023] As used herein, the term "and / or" refers to any one of the items, any combination of the items, or all of the items with which this term is associated.

[0024] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0025] As used herein, the terms "include," "for example," "such as," and the like are used illustratively and are not intended to limit the present invention.

[0026] As used herein, the terms "preferred" and "preferably" refer to embodiments of the invention that may afford certain benefits, under certain circumstances. However, other embodiments may also be preferred, under the same or other circumstances.

[0027] Furthermore, the recitation of one or more preferred embodiments does not imply that other embodiments are not useful and is not intended to exclude other embodiments from the scope of the invention.

[0028] As used herein, the terms "front," "back," "rear," "upper," "lower," "right," and "left" in this description are merely used to identify the various elements as they are oriented in the FIGS, with "front," "back," and "rear" being relative to the apparatus. These terms are not meant to limit the elements that they describe, as the various elements may be oriented differently in various applications.

[0029] As used herein, the term "coupled" means the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. Similarly, coupled can refer to a two member or elements being communicatively coupled, wherein the two elements may be electronically, through54868-3645-2083, v. 7various means, such as a metallic wire, wireless network, optical fiber, or other medium and methods.

[0030] The various components can include a communication interface. The communication interface may be an interface that can allow a component to be directly connected to any other component or allows the component to be connected to another component over network. Network can include, for example, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), cable system, telco system, or the Internet, or any other wireless network including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC, cellular or other suitable wireless networks. In an embodiment, a component can be connected to another device via a wireless communication interface through the network. Embodiments of the assessments and scoring system of the present disclosure and method may be described in the general context of a computer-executable instruction, such as program modules, software, or algorithms, being executed by a computer. Generally, program modules may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, among other modules, that may perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. The various tasks executed in the system may be practiced by distributed computing environments where tasks are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through communications network, which may include both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices and data.

[0031] It will be understood that, although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, these elements should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element from another. For example, a first element could be termed a second element, and, similarly, a second element could be termed a first element without departing from the teachings of the disclosure.

[0032] While the invention has been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Upon reading the teachings of this disclosure many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is indeed intended that the scope of the invention should be determined by proper interpretation64868-3645-2083, v. 7and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.

[0033] Referring now to FIGS. 1-4 of a wearable apparatus according to the present disclosure and generally referred to herein as the apparatus 1 and corresponding system 1000 to provide general communications between one or more related apparatuses on a network 200. The apparatus 1 may take any general origination. In one exemplary embodiment, an apparatus can generally be a bracelet 1 comprising an adjustable bracelet strap 13, a wearable feedback sensor 100 that can include a signaling means such as a vibration module, audible module, or light 15 to provide a signal to a user as shown in Figs. 1A-1F. The apparatus 1 may be used as a bracelet wrapped around a wrist of a wearer while the wearer plays in a sporting event.

[0034] In one exemplary embodiment, the sporting event can include but is not limited to a baseball game. The apparatus 1 may comprise any other suitable form of wearables. The sensor 100 may use Al technology to track a plurality of apparatuses 1 being worn by a plurality of users' locations and speed on the field, such as during a sporting event. The sensor 100 may be further configured to remotely send a warning signal over a network 200 to a respective user when a possible collision between one or more apparatuses 1 might happen. The warning signal may generally be sent as an alert, such as a vibration, audible sound, or light to the user when the feedback sensor 100a is signaled. The alert may be configured with multiple levels of vibrations, from low to high. The feedback sensor 100 may be configured to transmit a discrete signal at a certain period of time slot or to transmit a continuous vibration warning until there is no possible collision. The apparatus 1 may be manually initiated when the wearer touches the sensor 100 that can send a signal to other devices within a pre-determined area of the primary device la or to all devices on the network 200.

[0035] In one exemplary embodiment, the system 1000 can further include a warning signal module 101 that can utilize the data and communication between the devices and the network to provide a warning to the devices of a potential collision event through the feedback sensor 100 of the device 1 to a user. In other exemplary embodiments, a user can activate the feedback sensor 100 through a button on the device 1 to alert other user devices 1 within a74868-3645-2083, v. 7pre-determined proximity of the device 1. Alternatively, a user can communicate through a voice or other means rather than a button or touch sensor. This can aid in preventing collisions when more than one user may attempt to go after a ball or object 12 in a similar space to each other. The pre-determined zone 11 for a device la can be utilized to provide an alert through the feedback sensor 100 as one or more corresponding safety / alert zones 11 of another device lb overlap each other. In one exemplary embodiment, a first alert zone 11a from a first wearable apparatus la can overlap a portion of a second alert zone lib of a second wearable apparatus lb resulting in the system 1000 to initiate an alert or signal to the feedback sensor of one or both of the wearable apparatuses la,b.

[0036] As previously discussed, the zones 11 can increase or decrease depending upon the speed of a user as they approach each other. The radius of the alert zones 11 can be adjusted utilizing the Al Deep Learning module 105 to anticipate or predict a user's acceleration over time. As the user's speed increases the zone may increase in size especially as another user may be moving in a similar direction of the other user(s). Alternatively, the zones 11 can be predetermined. The feedback sensor 100 can transmit a different type of alert signal to a user depending upon the pre-determined response. A first alert signal can be used to alert other devices in proximity of a primary designated device la after it activates the alert signal to notify other users to keep their distance. Another alert signal can be utilized to warn a user as it approaches another user within a pre-determined proximity or an obstacle such as a wall. The system 1000 can designate a pre-determined area, such as field / wa 11 boundaries that can be communicated to the device 1 as a user approaches the boundary / wall. The various modules of the system can transmit signals through the network to deliver instructions or data to each other for additional processing or storage.

[0037] The system 1000 can include a movement tracking and analysis module 104 configured to track and analyze one or more devices 1 location and speed within a designated area 20. The apparatus 1 may further comprise a storage module 103 and a data analysis module 104 configured to store each wearer's data during the game or pre-determined time and to analyze the data in order to determine when a collision might happen (first / third method of use), or the speed / distance of a player from a barrier (second method of use).84868-3645-2083, v. 7

[0038] The evaluation of a real-time likelihood of a collision can then be analyzed with respect to a movement database 104 and / or through artificial intelligence / machine learning modules 105. The Al deep learning module 105 can use real-time location tracking data and / or GPS data transmitted from the one or more user devices 1 to the network 200. Upon completion of the sporting event, a post-performance Al-guided written feedback report can be provided via feedback modules 106. The report may include a success rate in predicting / avoiding collisions. The report may be further used as a source for the Al-guided and machine learning-guided for future evaluation of likelihood of collisions and activation of the warning signal. Additionally, the report can provide feedback as to if the proper user pursued the object or if a different user was in a better position to pursue the object. Similarly, the report can provide a user with data as to the proper pursuit path to the object and if their line to the object was optimal. The generated reports including the respective data can be stored on the memory 103 for future use by the Al module 105. In some exemplary embodiments, the data can include player specific data, including but not limited to average player acceleration to a ball, average speed, range of coverage, among other elements. The player data can be utilized to by the Al module to better predict and adjust both the protection zone radius as well as indicate which player may have a better opportunity to field a ball. The feedback module 106 may additionally transmit the feedback report, statistical analysis, and related data to a display. A display can be on the wearable apparatus or a separate display such as a monitor or tablet. In some exemplary embodiments, a display on the wearable device 1 can communicate if a user is designated to run to the object. The display can provide historical tracking data as well as realtime data of player movements received and processed through the movement and location module 104. The system 1000 can also generate prediction models and graphical illustrations, including overlays illustrating an actual path of a user versus an optimal path of a user to an object. In some instances, the object can be a hit ball within the predetermined area. This data can further be used to illustrate to fielders / users where they move during a hit. This can include the user who goes after the object as well as the other users and their movement in relation to the fielding of the object.94868-3645-2083, v. 7

[0039] One or more correlation matrices or algorithms may include neural networks, cognitive reasoning routines, machine-learning algorithms, heuristics, and other forms of artificial intelligence. In one embodiment, the Al / machine-learning module 105 may build one or more correlation matrices that quantify correlation coefficients or factors that relate one or more inputs to one or more outputs, or to one or more threshold values. The correlation algorithms can be used with one or more parameter inputs or feedback data to try to predict one or more outputs. The Al module 105 may be used to predict the value of an output as well as the likelihood of a particular outcome occurring to better alert a user. This can ensure that an alert is provided earlier to the user to prevent a collision event or alternatively alert a user of an imminent collision.

[0040] The system 1000 can include a processor 201 and a memory 103. The memory 103 can be configured to store one or more wearer's data and other databases. Similarly, the memory 103 can be communicatively coupled to a network 200 to access additional information and memory modules to be used by other system modules communicatively coupled to the network 200. The processor 201 can similarly be communicatively coupled to a network 200. The processor 201 can be configured to provide access to a remote user and run one or more modules of the system 1000.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 2, one exemplary embodiment of the system 1000 can include a network 200 that can be communicatively coupled to one or more devices la. The devices can include a feedback sensor(s) 100 and a transceiver 110. The transceiver 110 can be communicatively connected to the network and similarly communicate with one or more other devices lb. The devices 1 can optionally include an accelerometer 120 and / or a GPS module 130. The accelerometer 120 can measure the speed of the device 1 as a user is running. The GPS module 130 can monitor and track the position of the device within a designated area. The data obtained through the accelerometer 120 and GPS module 130 can be communicated through the network to the memory for processing. Additionally, the feedback sensor 100 can be used to establish a zone 11 or area around the user of the device 1 as shown in Fig. 3. Each zone 11 can be set to be a pre-determined radius around a user. Similarly, the zones 11 may expand or contract in size depending upon the speed at which a user is travelling. The zones 11104868-3645-2083, v. 7can be used by one or more modules of the system 1000 for potential collision detection and warning through the feedback sensor 100.

[0042] The system 1000 and related devices 1 can be used for various methods in collision prevention. In one exemplary method of the present disclosure, the devices 1 can be utilized by all individuals within a pre-determined area 20 (Step 401). A first wearer / device la who feels he / she is in the best position to catch the ba ll / object 12 can then activate his / her device 1 (Step 402). The device la can communicate through a network or directly to other devices lb-g within a pre-determined radius around the primary or first device la to send a vibration signal to the other players who are within the radius (warning them that the ball is claimed) (Step 403). The vibration signal will only stop when the wearer exits the radius or when the ball has been retrieved as outlined in Step 404 of Fig. 4.

[0043] Additionally, as shown in Fig. 5, the system 1000 can be utilized to track a player's speed by providing the player a wearable device 1 and to calculate the distance to a predetermined barrier within the designated area 20 (Step 501). A movement and location module can be provided and utilized to provide a real-time estimation of the likelihood of a collision event (Step 503). The device 1 can then send a vibration warning to notify the player he / she is getting too close to the pre-determined barrier when running above a pre-determined minimum speed (Step 504). The movement / location analysis module 104 can determine the device's location and speed and the warning signal module 101 can determine whether to alert a device 1 once a pre-determined threshold is reached. The feedback sensor 100 of the device 1 may send an increasing continuous vibration signal, which increases level when the player gets closer to the pre-determined barrier as determined by the movement / location module 104 and warning signal module 101.

[0044] The system 1000 can further include storing and computing the location and speed of all the players during a sporting event. The movement / location analysis module 104 can monitor the proximity of devices 1 as designated. If two devices are moving towards each other, and their speed is higher than a pre-determined minimum speed, the feedback sensor 100 of the device 1 can auto-activate an alert to the user of the device 1. The alert can start at a lower level and continuously increase to a higher level, until the eminent collision situation is114868-3645-2083, v. 7not detected by device 1 anymore. The apparatus may use Al and machine learning modules 105 to determine the possibility of collisions to further reduce potential warning alerts to users as well as better predict potential collisions.

[0045] In some exemplary embodiments, the system 1000 can include a video monitoring system 220 that can track the location of an object 12, such as a ball. The video monitoring system 220 can be any type of radar, lidar, video, or other type of system that can monitor the position, launch, velocity and trajectory of an object 12. This system can communicate through the network 200. The Al / machine learning module 105 can predict the best device 1 to be in proximity to field or catch the object 12. An alert can be sent to the device that is designated to catch the object 12. Optionally, the system 1000 can further include a coach interface device 210 that can be utilized by a person to manually designate which device should field the object 12. This can further be used for practice and training purposes.

[0046] It is to be understood that the wearable sensor may be used by an individual and that the vibration warning may be utilized to prevent collision in other situations. Various related embodiments of the invention are also described in Appendix A, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0047] While the invention has been described above in terms of specific embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to these disclosed embodiments. Upon reading the teachings of this disclosure many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come to mind of those skilled in the art to which this invention pertains, and which are intended to be and are covered by both this disclosure and the appended claims. It is indeed intended that the scope of the invention should be determined by proper interpretation and construction of the appended claims and their legal equivalents, as understood by those of skill in the art relying upon the disclosure in this specification and the attached drawings.124868-3645-2083, v. 7

Claims

File No.: 20147.0001CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A proximity warning system for participants in sporting events, comprising: a first wearable apparatus removably coupled to a first user and a second wearable apparatus removably coupled to a second user, wherein the first wearable apparatus and second wearable apparatus are communicatively coupled to a network, wherein each wearable apparatus includes a power source, feedback sensor and a transceiver, wherein the transceiver of a first wearable apparatus can communicate with the network, the transceiver of the second wearable apparatus, or both; a processor with a memory communicatively coupled to the network; a movement and location analysis module configured to recognize and record the locations of the first wearable apparatus and the second wearable apparatus movements and speeds throughout a pre-determined period of time and within a designated area; and a warning signal module having one or more threshold values for each of the first wearable apparatus and second wearable apparatus, wherein the warning signal module will transmit a signal to one or more of the first or second wearable apparatus when a threshold value is reached.

2. The proximity warning system of claim 1, wherein each wearable apparatus further comprises an accelerometer and a GPS module configured to measure the speed and location of the respective wearable apparatus.

3. The proximity warning system of claim 2, further comprising an artificial intelligence machine learning module communicatively coupled to the network.

4. The proximity warning system of claim 1, wherein a first threshold value can be a proximity distance between the location of the first wearable apparatus and the second wearable apparatus.

5. The proximity warning system of claim 2, wherein a second threshold value can be the speed at which a wearable apparatus is travelling, wherein the warning signal module will only transmit a signal to a respective wearable apparatus when the speed threshold is met.

6. The proximity warning system of claim 1, a video monitoring system configured to track the movement of an object within a designated area.

7. The proximity warning system of claim 6, wherein the warning signal module assigns a pre-determined radius alert zone around each of the first wearable apparatus and the second wearable apparatus.

8. The proximity warning system of claim 7, wherein the warning signal module can provide an alert to the first wearable apparatus enters the alert zone of the second wearable apparatus.

9. The proximity warning system of claim 8, wherein the Al module can communicate movement / location analysis module to utilize data to determine if the alert zone needs to be adjusted as the speed or direction of the user changes in real-time.

10. The proximity warning system of claim 6, wherein each wearable apparatus further includes a video monitoring system to track an object.

11. The proximity warning system of claim 9, wherein the video monitoring system tracks the speed, direction, and location of an object.

12. The proximity warning system of claim 11, wherein the Al module can utilize historical data stored on the memory as well as real-time data from the movement and location analysis module.

13. The proximity warning system of claim 12, wherein the Al module can automatically increase or decrease the alert zones of a user depending upon data from at least one of the following:Historical performance data of the user or real-time data from the movement and location analysis module.

14. The proximity warning system of claim 13, wherein the warning signal module triggers an alert to one or more wearable apparatus when a potential collision event is imminent.

15. The proximity warning system of claim 13, wherein the warning signal module triggers an alert to the feedback sensor of a wearable device when a first alert zone overlaps a portion of a second alert zone.

16. A method for a collision warning to a wearer, comprising: providing at least one user a wearable device for accessing the movement and location monitoring system, the feedback sensor communicatively coupled to a movement and location analysis module via a network; providing real-time estimation of likelihood of a collision between at least two users or between a user and a pre-determined barrier; transmitting a warning signal to at least one wearable device, informing the user that a collision may be imminent.

17. The method of claim 3, further comprising:providing an Al / machine learning module configured to analyze movement patterns and movements of one or more wearable devices to improve alert time to the one or more wearable devices.

18. The method of claim 3, wherein the warning signal is a vibration signal provided via a vibration module.

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