Monitoring of sports equipment

Abstract

Apparatus, for monitoring exercise equipment, consisting of at least one housing (108), configured to attach to a cable (92) on which a weight (80) is suspended, so as to enclose a section (140) of the cable therein. A strain sensor (126A), located within the housing, contacts the cable section when the at least one housing encloses the cable section and provides a strain signal indicative of a tension of the cable section in response to the contact. There is an inertial measurement unit (IMU) (116A), located within the at least one housing, that is configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the at least one housing. A communication interface (120A) is located within the at least one housing, and is coupled to transmit data responsive to the strain and motion signals to a processor for tracking work performed on the equipment.

Description

[0001] MONITORING OF SPORTS EQUIPMENT

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0003] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 692,112 filed September 8, 2024, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0004] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0005] This invention relates generally to sports equipment, and specifically to monitoring activity and operation of the equipment.

[0006] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A client who uses a gymnasium typically likes to track the usage of gym equipment, e.g., to count the number of steps he / she has taken on a treadmill, or to record the weights he / she has used in a weight-lifting exercise. The tracking, which may be generated in a number of ways including manual recordation by the client, may be used by the client, and / or by a trainer assisting the client.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention provides apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus including: at least one housing, configured to attach to a cable on which a weight is suspended, so as to enclose a section of the cable therein; a strain sensor located within the at least one housing, configured to contact the cable section when the at least one housing encloses the cable section and to provide a strain signal indicative of a tension of the cable section in response to the contact; an inertial measurement unit (EMU), located within the at least one housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the at least one housing; and a communication interface located within the at least one housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the strain signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0010] The strain sensor may include a strain gauge. The at least one housing may consist of a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein, and the single housing may have a protuberance, contacting the strain gauge and the cable section and constraining the cable section to form an extended cable section that is concave, and wherein the extended cable section exerts a force via the protuberance on the strain gauge.

[0011] Alternatively, the at least one housing may consist of a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein, and wherein the single housing may have a connector contacting the strain gauge and the cable section and constraining the cable section to form an extended cable section that is convex, and wherein the extended cable section exerts a force via the connector on the strain gauge.

[0012] The communication interface may consist of an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to exit the apparatus from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation in response to the motion signal. The loT microcontroller may include a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

[0013] In a disclosed embodiment the at least one housing includes a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein.

[0014] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus including: a housing, configured to support one or more weights positioned on the housing; a load sensor located within the housing, configured to provide a load signal indicative of a weight of the one or more weights when supported by the housing; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located in proximity to a selected weight of the one or more weights, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the selected weight; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0015] Thee communication interface may include an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to exit the apparatus from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation in response to the motion signal.

[0016] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus including: a housing, configured to be attached to a weight selected from a plurality of weights; respective identifiers, attached to each of the weights, configured to provide respective identifying signals in response to a radiofrequency transmission; a transceiver located within the housing, configured to transmit the radiofrequency transmission and to generate respective output signals indicative of respective locations of each of the plurality of weights in response to the respective identifying signals; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the respective output signals and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0017] The communication interface may include an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to operate as the transceiver and to exit the apparatus from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation.

[0018] In a disclosed embodiment the exit from the dormant mode to the active mode is in response to a change of the respective output signals.

[0019] Alternatively, the exit from the dormant mode to the active mode is in response to the motion signal.

[0020] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present inventio, apparatus for monitoring a treadmill, including: a housing, configured to fixedly attach to a frame of the treadmill; a speed sensor contained in the housing, configured to generate an output signal indicative of a speed of motion of a belt of the treadmill; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the output signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the treadmill.

[0021] In a disclosed embodiment the speed sensor is configured to direct a beam of radiation toward the belt of the treadmill. The beam of radiation may be an ultrasonic beam. Alternatively, the beam of radiation may be an optical beam. In a further disclosed embodiment the speed sensor includes a laser and a receiver of reflected radiation of the optical beam from the belt, and is configured to generate the output signal in response to a Doppler shift of the reflected radiation. There may be at least one fiducial mark positioned on the belt, and the speed sensor may be configured to generate the output signal in response to a time registered for the at least one fiducial mark to be visible to the speed sensor.

[0022] The apparatus may include an inertial measurement unit (IMU), contained in the housing, configured to provide a signal to the communication interface indicative of a tilt of the treadmill.

[0023] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus including: a housing, attached to a movable frame of the exercise equipment, the frame having a weight coupled thereto and being configured, when moved, to translate the weight along a predefined path; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; a load cell, attached to a support of the exercise equipment, configured, in a resting state of the frame, to retain the frame and to provide a load signal indicative of a load generated by the weight; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0024] In a disclosed embodiment the exercise equipment has a hinge, and the movable frame is configured to rotate about the hinge so as to rotate the weight about an axis defined by the hinge.

[0025] Alternatively the exercise equipment has a rail, and the movable frame is configured to translate along the rail so as to translate the weight along a line defined by the rail.

[0026] The communication interface may have an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to facilitate communications between the IMU and the load cell. The communication interface may be located in one of the housing and the load cell.

[0027] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus including: a clip, attached to a bar having a weight mounted thereon; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the clip, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the bar; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0028] The communication interface may include an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to receive communications from the IMU.

[0029] In a disclosed embodiment the communication interface is located in the clip.

[0030] In an alternative embodiment the exercise equipment includes a workout station, and the apparatus further includes: a load cell, attached to a weight retainer, configured to support the bar, of the workout station, the load cell being configured to provide a load signal indicative of a force on the weight retainer.

[0031] The communication interface may be located in the load cell.

[0032] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, including: a weight identifying device attached to a weight, the device being configured to provide a signal identifying the weight in response to receiving a radiofrequency (RF) signal; at least two antennas located at vertices of a planar polygon positioned in proximity to the weight, each of the antennas being configured to transmit respective RF transmissions to the weight identifying device, and to generate respective signals in response to received RF radiation from the device; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the respective signals to a processor, for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0033] The communication interface may include an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to determine a position of the weight in response to the respective signals. The loT microcontroller may iclude a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

[0034] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring exercise equipment, including: attaching at least one housing to a cable on which a weight is suspended, so as to enclose a section of the cable therein; locating within the at least one housing a strain sensor to contact the cable section when the at least one housing encloses the cable section; configuring the strain sensor to provide a strain signal indicative of a tension of the cable section in response to the contact; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the at least one housing, and configuring the IMU to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the at least one housing; and coupling a communication interface, located within the at least one housing, to transmit data responsive to the strain signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0035] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring exercise equipment, including: configuring a housing to support one or more weights positioned on the housing; locating a load sensor within the housing, and configuring the load sensor to provide a load signal indicative of a weight of the one or more weights when supported by the housing; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in proximity to a selected weight of the one or more weights, and configuring the IMU to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the selected weight; and coupling a communication interface, located within the housing, to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0036] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring exercise equipment, including: attaching a housing to a weight selected from a plurality of weights; attaching respective identifiers to each of the weights and configuring the identifiers to provide respective identifying signals in response to a radiofrequency transmission; configuring a transceiver, located within the housing, to transmit the radiofrequency transmission and to generate respective output signals indicative of respective locations of each of the plurality of weights in response to the respective identifying signals; configuring an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; and coupling a communication interface, located within the housing, to transmit data responsive to the respective output signals and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0037] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring a treadmill, including: fixedly attaching a housing to a frame of the treadmill; configuring a speed sensor contained in the housing to generate an output signal indicative of a speed of motion of the belt; and coupling a communication interface contained within the housing to transmit data responsive to the output signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the treadmill.

[0038] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring exercise equipment, including: attaching a housing to a movable frame of the exercise equipment, the frame having a weight mounted coupled thereto and being configured, when moved, to translate the weight along a predefined path; locating within the housing an inertial measurement unit (IMU) configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; attaching a load cell to a support of the exercise equipment, the load cell being configured, in a resting state of the frame, to retain the frame and to provide a load signal indicative of a load generated by the weight; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0039] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring a exercise equipment, comprising: attaching a clip to a bar having a weight mounted thereon; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the clip, the IMU being configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the bar; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0040] There is further provided, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a method for monitoring exercise equipment, including: attaching a weight identifying device to a weight, the device being configured to provide a signal identifying the weight in response to receiving a radiofrequency (RF) signal; locating at least two antennas located at respective vertices of a planar polygon and positioned in proximity to the weight, each of the antennas being configured to transmit respective RF transmissions to the weight identifying device, and to generate respective signals in response to received RF radiation from the device; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the respective signals to a processor, for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

[0041] The present disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of the embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:

[0042] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0043] Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a facility having exercise equipment, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Fig. 2A is a schematic illustration of a set of weights, according to an embodiment of the present invention; Fig. 2B is a schematic diagram showing internal components of a weight monitoring device, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0045] Fig. 2C is a schematic diagram showing internal components of a weight monitoring device, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Fig. 2D is a schematic illustration of the set of weights of Fig. 2A in an alternative configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Fig. 2E is a schematic illustration of the set of weights in a further alternative configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Fig. 2F is a schematic illustration of the set of weights in a yet further alternative configuration, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of a treadmill, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Fig. 4A shows schematic views of a guided weight machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Fig. 4B shows schematic views of a guided weight machine, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of a workout station, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus for monitoring weights, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[0054] Fig. 7 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus for monitoring weights, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0056] Overview

[0057] A client using equipment in a gymnasium typically wants their usage of the equipment to be monitored. The present disclosure provides a number of embodiments, also herein termed products, which may be used jointly or separately, as part of a working environment which enables monitoring of the physical activity involved in using the gym equipment. Each product comprises one or more components, and the components described in this disclosure are attached, embedded, coupled, and / or synchronized to the gym equipment and monitor activities using the equipment which, up to this point in time, were not monitored.

[0058] The products may be powered by any convenient system known in the art, such as a rechargeable battery or a grid power source. The client using the products may be identified by any means known in the art, such as by a tag or smart watch worn by the client, or by the mobile phone of the client. Each product may be configured to be in a dormant mode until activated, typically in response to movement of the equipment being monitored. In some embodiments the movement may be detected by an inertial measurement unit (IMU) configured to measure linear and / or rotational motion, located in a component of the product, wherein the movement is induced by a client using the equipment.

[0059] The different products are designed for quick installation, typically to existing equipment. Alternatively the products may be incorporated into equipment during manufacturing.

[0060] Regardless of whether installed on existing equipment or embedded therein, each of the products comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller that is able to communicate data acquired by a given product to a central processing unit (CPU) external to the product. The loT microcontroller is located in one of the product components, and acts as a communication interface. The CPU, herein also termed a server, and / or the loT microcontroller, may be configured to analyze the data so as to track work performed on the equipment, and provide results of the analyzed data to the client using the equipment, and / or to another relevant party such as a trainer of the client.

[0061] The results may be provided to a user interface of the client, such as the client’s smartphone or wearable or other smart device. Alternatively or additionally, the results may be provided to one or more other user interfaces, such as a computing system, that are available to parties other than the client, for example the client’s trainer or an operator of the gymnasium. Typically, each product has three attributes comprising data transmission, device wake up, and user matching, that are described hereinbelow.

[0062] Data Transmission

[0063] Data transmission comprises logging and processing data that may be sent for further analysis and user presentation. The products may store and operate with the same type of data, such as data that might be combined later with extra inputs from a wearable and / or a memory in the cloud.

[0064] Depending on the product, the data may include: o Identification of the user o Estimated weight used o Time and date o Workout profile - samplings of the weight movement / acceleration in time, including repetition, movement length, speed, etc. o Workout time - Length of workout and length between sets. o Number of sets o Ambient temperature o Angle - Workout direction angle o Speed - When a speed sensor is connected o Machine Inclination

[0065] The data may be presented in real time, or after a workout, on a dedicated display and / or on a user device.

[0066] Device Wake Up

[0067] Components of each product may be configured to be in a dormant state to save energy. In the dormant state, a minimum number of entities in the product components would be active. A product may be configured to wake up, i.e., to exit from the dormant state to an active state, so as to acquire and log data, when, depending on the product, one of the following occurs: o Vibration sensor detects movement o A control activates when a workout starts o Load or pressure sensor detects a weight change o IMU detects movement o Speed sensor detects speed o Proximity sensor detects presence of a user o A user presses a button o New phone pairs with the loT controller of the product

[0068] User matching

[0069] User matching corresponds to coupling a product of a given exercise equipment with a user of the equipment, typically for a workout, and comprises identifying the user. The matching may occur at the beginning of, or during, an actual workout.

[0070] Alternatively, the matching may be applied for a user to review workout history, where typically the user may review her / his previous workouts, and / or register nonperformed workouts, for example by using artificial intelligence.

[0071] The matching may become operative if one of the following occurs: o A user device, such as a mobile, a wearable, or an RFID tag of the user is detected o The user uses a near field communication (NFC) or a quick response (QR) code scan to send a matching request to the loT microcontroller of the product, and / or to a memory in the cloud o The user uses a physical numpad (numerical keypad) to provide a personal ID for identification o Computer vision - images from a camera in the facility having the equipment may be analyzed to identify and watch the user of the product

[0072] A disclosed embodiment comprises a weight measurement device (WMD) which measures a weight lifted by a client. In one configuration the WMD comprises a housing which is a single component that clips or slides onto a cable used to lift weights. The mounting of the housing is configured to be simple, so that the housing may be easily transferred to another cable if necessary. The housing comprises a strain sensor which measures the tension in the cable, so providing an indication of the weight held by the cable. The housing also comprises an IMU measuring movement of the cable.

[0073] In an alternative configuration the WMD uses more than one housing. For clarity and simplicity the following description assumes that the WMD is formed with a single housing, and those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to adapt the description, mutatis mutandis, when the WMD has more than one housing.

[0074] During a training session involving physical exercise the WMD logs all the data, from the strain sensor and the IMU, relating to the exercise, and after processing sends it, via a communication interface which may use its loT microcontroller, to the server referred to above and / or to a local processor for further analysis, either in real time or following the end of the session, by a computer algorithm. The local processor may operate a local display. The algorithm may analyze the data to include, without being limited to, results such as values of weights lifted, numbers of times the weights were lifted, and results related to a user’s workout summary, such as different values of weights used, distances moved by the weights, and the speed of movement. The algorithm may be also configured to suggest, based on the analyzed data, results-based future training sessions.

[0075] In an alternative configuration the WMD comprises a load cell which acts as a housing and which is located beneath a stack of weights. As is the case for the housing described above, the load cell comprises a load sensor which provides a signal indicative of the weight of the stack. When one or more weights are lifted from the stack, the change in load cell signal is used by the loT microcontroller to exit from the dormant made and to begin tracking the weights lifted in an active mode of operation.

[0076] In a further alternative configuration the WMD comprises a plurality of radiofrequency identifiers (RFIDs) which are respectively attached to weights, having known values, in a stack. The housing of the WMD having the IMU may be placed on one of the weights to be moved, for example the top weight of the stack, or may be placed on a cable or other element coupled to the weight to be moved, and may act as a motion sensor. The loT microcontroller may use signals from the IMU to detect exit from a dormant mode and to begin tracking weights of the stack, via their RFIDs, in an active mode. Alternatively, one or more of the methods for providing a wake up, described above, may be used.

[0077] Another disclosed embodiment comprises a conveyor belt device (CBD) which may be attached to a treadmill to convert the treadmill to a “smart” treadmill. The CBD comprises at least one housing, typically a single housing, which is affixed to a frame of the treadmill. Within the at least one housing there is a speed sensor which an loT microcontroller of the device uses to calculate the speed of the treadmill belt.

[0078] The at least one housing of the CBD also contains an IMU, and the loT microcontroller may use signals from the IMU to calculate an inclination of the treadmill. Other embodiments disclosed herein monitor weights used in different types of machines. The machines may comprise a workout station such as a regular bench press or a guided movement machine that guides weights along a path, such as rotation about an axis or translation along or parallel to a rail. The embodiments convert the machines to “smart” machines. Another embodiment monitors weights used in a “free weights” region of the gym, e.g., a region where a user raises and lowers handheld barbells.

[0079] Detailed Description

[0080] In the following description, like elements in the drawings are identified by like numerals and are differentiated, as necessary, by a letter appended to the numeral. In addition, all directional references (e.g., upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, and horizontal) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader’s understanding of the present invention, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of embodiments of the invention.

[0081] Reference is now made to Fig. 1, which is a schematic block diagram illustrating a facility 20, wherein exercise equipment in the facility is modified so that work performed on the equipment may be monitored. In the following description, for simplicity and clarity, facility 20 is assumed to comprise a gymnasium, and so is also referred to herein as gymnasium 20 or gym 20. However it will be understood that referring to facility 20 as a gymnasium is purely by way of example, so that facility 20 may comprise any other region, such as the room of a private house, having exercise equipment that is to be monitored.

[0082] Gym 20 comprises a number of generally similar stations 24A, 24B, 24C, 24D, 24E, and 24F generically referred to herein as stations 24. Each station 24 has exercise equipment that is to be monitored. For example, as shown in the figure, station 24A may have a set of weights 28, station 24B may have a treadmill 32, station 24C may have a guided weight machine 36, station 24D may have an alternative guided weight machine 37, station 24E may have a workout station 46, and station 24F may have other weights 54, also herein also termed “free” weights. Weight set 28, treadmill 32, machines 36 and 37, workout station 46, and weights 54 comprise exercise equipment that is to be monitored.

[0083] Fig. 1 also illustrates a user 38 of the equipment of gym 20, the user having an identification (ID) 42, such as a smartphone carried by the user, and / or an ID tag worn by the user. For clarity and simplicity, in the following description ID 42 is assumed to comprise a passive radiofrequency identification (RFID) tag and is also referred to herein as RFID 42. Other RFID tags referred to herein are also assumed to be passive. Those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to adapt the description, mutatis mutandis, if the RFID tags are active.

[0084] The monitoring of the exercise equipment is performed by coupling respective monitoring products, each product comprising one or more components, to each of the sets of exercise equipment to be monitored. In some embodiments described herein a given exercise equipment may be monitored by more than one product. In the description herein a monitoring product may also be referred to as a monitoring apparatus.

[0085] Thus weight set 28 is monitored by monitoring products M28A, M28B, or M28C, treadmill 32 is monitored by a monitoring product M32, machines 36 and 37 are monitored by products M36 and M37, workout station 46 is monitored by monitoring product M46, and free weights 54 are monitored by monitoring apparatus M54 or monitoring apparatus M54’.

[0086] As is described in more detail below, each monitoring product comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller, which is configured to acquire data when the exercise equipment is being used, and to transmit the data to a controller having a central processing unit (CPU). Each loT microcontroller is also configured to identify user 38 of the equipment using RFID 42 of the user as well as to recognize other RFID tags, for example by using an attached reader module.

[0087] By way of example gym 20 is assumed to have an operating console 40 that may be used by an operator of the gym for monitoring activities in the gym. Console 40 is assumed to comprise a CPU 44 and a memory 48, which are coupled with a user interface 52 having a screen, a keypad and / or a pointing device. Memory 48 stores an algorithm 56 which analyzes data from the monitoring products, identifies user 38 of the exercise equipment, and which provides results of the analysis to the user of the equipment, as well as to other relevant people such as the operator of gym 20. Alternatively or additionally, algorithm 56 may be stored in a memory external to gym 20, such as on a mobile wearable device or on a server 60 in an internet memory cloud.

[0088] Further alternatively or additionally, algorithm 56 may be stored on a memory associated with the loT microcontroller of the monitoring product.

[0089] While the description below assumes, for clarity and simplicity, that algorithm 56 is stored in memory 48 or a memory external to the gym such as in server 60, those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to alter the description, mutatis mutandis, if algorithm 56 is stored on a local memory such as one associated with one of the loT microcontrollers described herein.

[0090] Fig. 2A is a schematic illustration of set of weights 28 in a configuration 90, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In configuration 90 set 28 comprises weights 80 (by way of example four weights are illustrated) which are held together by a supporting rod 84 terminated at its ends by weight retainers 88. A cable 92 is connected to upper retainer 88, and is fed over a pulley 96 connected to a frame of the equipment. A handle 100 is connected to cable 92 and allows user 38 of set 28 to lift and lower the weights.

[0091] To monitor the operation of set 28, a weight measuring device (WMD) 104, corresponding to monitoring product M28A, is fixed to cable 92. The fixation may be on either side of the pulley, and in one embodiment may be close to the handle. WMD 104 and its attachment to cable 92 are described below with reference to Fig. 2B.

[0092] Fig. 2B is a schematic diagram showing internal components of WMD 104, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The WMD is formed as a shelllike housing 108 that is in two parts that connect together.

[0093] The figure shows a first part of housing 108 together with the internal components of the WMD; a second part of the housing, generally similar to the first part, clips over the first part, so that housing 108 forms a shell that encloses the internal components. In one embodiment the two parts are coupled together in a clam-like manner.

[0094] The internal components of WMD 104, which are assumed to reside in the first part of housing 108, comprise a power source 112A such as a rechargeable battery, an inertial measurement unit (IMU) 116A which comprises a gyroscope and an accelerometer, and an internet of things (loT) microcontroller 120 A.

[0095] As is described below, other monitoring products described herein use generally similar power sources 112B, 112C, ..., IMUs 116B, 116C, ... , and loT microcontrollers 120B, 120C, ... which are respectively generically referred to herein as power sources 112, IMU 116, and loT microcontroller 120.

[0096] Power sources 112 may comprise any convenient system for supplying electrical energy to the products they power, such as a battery that may or may not be rechargeable, and / or grid power. IMUs 116 typically comprise a gyroscope and an accelerometer, which respectively provide signals indicative of a rotation and a displacement of the products they are coupled to. loT microcontrollers 120 act as communication interfaces, receiving signals from entities they are coupled to, and transmitting data in response to the received signals to CPU 44 and / or server 60 for further processing so as to track work being performed on the monitored exercise equipment. In some embodiments, a given loT microcontroller may be configured to recognize RFID tags, for example by being coupled to an RFID reader module, so acting as a transceiver with the RFID tags.

[0097] Thus, in WMD 104 loT microcontroller 120A receives signals from user RFID 42, IMU 116A and a strain sensor 126A, described below. The signals from RFID 42 may be used to identify user 38; alternatively or additionally one of the identification methods described in the User Matching section above may be used for identification.

[0098] The internal components of WMD 104 also comprise strain sensor 126A, which measures tension in cable 92. In a disclosed embodiment described hereinbelow sensor 126A comprises a strain gauge 124. Those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to adapt the description, mutatis mutandis, for other types of strain sensor known in the art, so that all such other types are assumed to be comprised within the scope of the present invention. Strain gauge 124 is mounted on a sensor holder strip 128, fixed within the first part of housing 108, that has a protuberance 132 extending from the strip. As shown in the figure, housing 108 also has two apertures 136 in proximity to the ends of strip 128 at an upper and a lower part of the housing. In a disclosed embodiment, each aperture 136 is formed as two semi-circular openings in the two parts of housing 108, so that when the two parts of the housing clip together, pairs of semi-circular openings mate to form circular apertures 136.

[0099] When WMD 104 is being fixed to cable 92, i.e., before the two parts of housing 108 are clipped together, the cable is positioned over the upper and lower semi-circular openings of the first part of housing 104, over cable guides 134, and over protuberance 132. The first and second parts of the housing may then be clipped together, so that a section 140 of cable 92 is enclosed by the housing, and contacts strain gauge 124, via protuberance 132. The contact causes gauge 124 to generate a strain signal that depends on the tension in cable 92, and the relation between the strain signal and the cable tension may be ascertained by calibrating WMD 104 with known weights.

[0100] Guides 134 and protuberance 132 constrain cable 92 into a curved or bowed configuration, so that section 140 is an extended section that is concave from the point of view of gauge 124. It is noted that provision of guides 134 and protuberance 132 is but one method to constrain cable 32 into a concave shape, so that other constraining methods forming the cable into a concave shape and that are apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art are comprised within the scope of the present invention.

[0101] In operation of WMD 104, loT microcontroller 120A receives motion signals from IMU 116A that are indicative of a rotation and / or translation of the WMD. Responsive to the motion signals, and / or as described above in the Device Wake Up section, microcontroller 120A may exit from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation. In the active mode microcontroller 120 A begins transmitting data, generated in response to signals from the strain gauge and the IMU, to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0102] In contrast to other systems known in the art, algorithm 56 is configured to use the strain gauge and IMU signals to calculate the value of the tension in cable 92, and thus the effective weight of set 28 being lifted, while WMD 104 and set 28 are moving. Also, in addition to using the motion signal to ascertain exit from the dormant mode of operation, algorithm 56 may be configured to use, during measurements of the tension in cable 92, the motion signal to reduce noise that may be present on the strain signal. The transmitted data may be analyzed in algorithm 56 to provide results of the work performed on weight set 28.

[0103] The motion signal and the strain signal may be used by algorithm 56 to calculate a distance travelled by weights 28, a value of the weights, and times and time periods during which the weights are used by user 38, and from these to generate derived results such as a number of lifts and an overall time of use during a work session with weight set 28. Other results that may be provided by algorithm 56 are described in the Data Transmission section above.

[0104] Fig. 2C is a schematic diagram showing internal components of WMD 104 and a strain sensor 126B, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the operation of WMD 104 with sensor 126B is generally similar to that of WMD 104 with sensor 126A (Fig. 2B), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both figures are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0105] In contrast to strain sensor 126 A, sensor 126B uses a pair of small pulleys 101 and a connector 103 in place of cable guides 134 and protuberance 132. Connector 103 and its associated elements are illustrated in a callout 105. Callout 105 is a cross-section taken at right angles to cable 92, so that tubular cable 92 appears as a circle in the callout. As shown in the callout, connector 103 contacts cable 92 and gauge 124, and acts to draw the cable towards the gauge.

[0106] Pulleys 101 and connector 103 constrain cable 92 into a curved or bowed configuration, so that section 140 is convex from the point of view of gauge 124. While pulleys 101 and connector 103 illustrate constraining cable 32 into a convex shape, it will be understood that other constraining methods forming the cable into a convex shape will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art, so that such other methods are comprised within the scope of the present invention.

[0107] Fig. 2D is a schematic illustration of set of weights 28 in an alternative configuration 190, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the structure and operation of configuration 190 are generally similar to the structure and operation of configuration 90 (Figs. 2A and 2B), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both configurations are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0108] In contrast to configuration 90, in configuration 190 weights set 28 is attached to cable 92 by a pulley 144, so that two sections of the cable support the set of weights. Consequently the weight measured by WMD 104 is approximately 50% of that the weight of set 28, and the movement of WMD 104 is approximately double the movement of the weight set. WMD 104 may be attached to cable 92 in positions different from that illustrated, including in positions close to handle 100.

[0109] Algorithm 56 may be configured to take account of the differences from configuration 90 engendered by having weight set 28 supported differently from that of configuration 90, such as by the pulley tackle illustrated in Fig. 2D, as well as other pulley tackles and a block and tackle set of pulleys, and all such differences are assumed to be comprised within the scope of the present invention.

[0110] Fig. 2E is a schematic illustration of set of weights 28 in a further alternative configuration 290, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the structure and operation of configuration 290 are generally similar to the structure and operation of configuration 90 (Fig. 2A), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both configurations are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0111] In contrast to configuration 90 where set of weights 28 may be monitored by monitoring product M28A that may have a single housing, in configuration 290 monitoring product M28B is in the form of two components, each having a separate housing.

[0112] A first component of product M28B comprises a load cell 298. The operation and internal components of load cell 298 are described below with reference to the callout of the load cell illustrated in Fig. 2E.

[0113] Load cell 298 has a generally disc-shaped housing 302 that is shaped to stand firmly on the floor of gym 20, and that is strong enough to support set of weights 28 when they are positioned on the housing. Fixed within housing 302 is a load sensor 306 that is configured to provide a load signal indicative of the weight of a load when the load is placed on the housing. The load, for example, may comprise the complete set of weights 28 or some of the set. Also positioned in housing 302 are a power source 112B, and an loT microcontroller 120B, which, except for the differences described below, operate generally as described above.

[0114] A second component of monitoring product M28B comprises an IMU 116B, which is retained within a housing 117. IMU 116B is configured to communicate wirelessly with loT microcontroller 120B by any convenient means known in the art, such as by being connected to a transceiver located in housing 117. As is illustrated in Fig. 2E, IMU 116B is placed on a selected weight 80 that is to be moved in a workout of user 38.

[0115] In operation of product M28B, loT microcontroller 120B receives load signals from load sensor 306 that are indicative of a change of load on load cell 298. Responsive to the load signals, loT microcontroller 120B may exit from a dormant mode of operation and begin to transmit data in an active operational mode to CPU 44 and / or server 60. The data is generated in response to signals from load sensor 306 and IMU 116B. In addition to using the load signal to ascertain exit from the dormant mode of operation, algorithm 56 may be configured to use the motion signal from IMU 116B to formulate data related to the movement of the IMU, such as the distance travelled by the weight supporting the IMU. The transmitted data may be analyzed in algorithm 56 to provide results of the work performed on weight set 28.

[0116] The load signal may be used by algorithm 56 to calculate a value of the weights of set 28 that are lifted. Together with the load signals, the signals from the IMU may be used to formulate data related to the workout, such as a number of lifts and an overall time of use during a work session of user 38 with weight set 28, as well as relevant data listed in the Data Transmission section above.

[0117] Fig. 2F is a schematic illustration of set of weights 28 in a yet further alternative configuration 390, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the structure and operation of configuration 390 are generally similar to the structure and operation of configuration 290 (Fig. 2E), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both configurations are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0118] In contrast to configuration 290, in configuration 390 weights of set 28 are mounted on a horizontal support 394, and are configured to slide vertically from the support by being retained by rods 398, fixed to support 394, penetrating the weights. Support 394 is shown as standing on the floor of gym 20, but alternatively may be part of a frame for weights 28.

[0119] Also in contrast to configuration 290, in configuration 390 a respective RFID tag 402 is attached to each weight 80 of set 28, and an RFID weight measuring device (RWMD) 406, illustrated with its internal components in a call-out of the figure, monitors the RFID tags, as is described below. RFID tags 402 and RWMD 406 correspond to monitoring product M28C.

[0120] In a disclosed embodiment RWMD 406 comprises a generally box-like housing 410, which may be removably attached, for example by cement and / or screws, to a selected weight 80 of set 28, herein assumed to comprise the uppermost weight 80. In housing 410 are a power source 112C, an IMU 116C, and an loT microcontroller 120C, which, except for the differences described below, operate generally as described above.

[0121] In a disclosed embodiment loT microcontroller 120C is configured to act as a transceiver transmitting RF radiation into the region surrounding the transceiver, and receiving returning RF signals from RFID tags 402. Each returning RF signal is indicative of the relative position of the RFID tag generating the signal with respect to the microcontroller. Each returning RF signal is thus indicative of the relative position of the weight having the tag with respect to microcontroller. The returning RF signal may also be configured to be indicative of a parameter associated with the weight having the tag, such as a value in kilograms or pounds of the weight.

[0122] In operation of RWMD 406, loT microcontroller 120C formulates position signals that are indicative of a change of position of weights 80 in set 28, the position signals being formulated from the energy of the signals received from RFID tags 402. Responsive to the position signals, loT microcontroller 120C may exit from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation, and begin to transmit data, generated in response to signals from the transceiver and the IMU, to CPU 44 and / or server 60. Alternatively or additionally, loT microcontroller 120C may exit from the dormant mode of operation in response to motion signals from IMU 116C.

[0123] In addition to ascertaining exit from the dormant mode of operation, algorithm 56 may be configured to use, during measurements of the relative positions of weights 80, the motion signal from IMU 116C to reduce noise that may be present on the position signals. The transmitted data may be analyzed in algorithm 56 to provide results of the work performed on weight set 28.

[0124] As is the case for configurations 90, 190 and 290, in configuration 390 the motion signal and the position signals may be used by algorithm 56 to calculate a value of the weights of set 28 that are lifted, and times and time periods during which the set is used by user 38, and from these to generate derived results such as a number of lifts and an overall time of use during a work session with weight set 28, as well as relevant data listed in the Data Transmission section above.

[0125] Fig. 3 is a schematic illustration of treadmill 32 according to an embodiment of the present invention. To monitor operation of treadmill 32, a conveyer belt device (CBD) 500, comprising monitoring product M32, is fixedly attached to a frame 504 of the treadmill. Frame 504 is coupled to a belt 528 of the treadmill, and in order to measure a tilt of the belt, as is explained further below, CBD 500 is attached to a section of the frame that tilts with the belt.

[0126] In a disclosed embodiment, CBD 500 is a generally box-like structure having a housing 508, that is illustrated in more detail in the call-out of Fig. 3. In housing 508 are a power source 112D, an IMU 116D, and an loT microcontroller 120D, which are coupled together and, except for the differences described below, operate generally as described above. In some embodiments, CBD 500 may be powered by the grid rather than source 112D.

[0127] Also within housing 508 is a speed sensor 512 which is configured to measure a speed of a belt 528 of the treadmill.

[0128] In a disclosed embodiment, and as illustrated in Fig. 3 and described hereinbelow, sensor 512 comprises a beam radiator 516 and a beam receiver 520. CBD 500 is fixed to frame 504 to have a clear view of belt 528, so that a beam 524 from radiator 516 is directed to the belt of the treadmill, and so that a returning beam 532 from the belt is acquired by receiver 520.

[0129] Radiator 516 and receiver 520 may operate using electromagnetic, typically optical, radiation or ultrasonic radiation. If electromagnetic radiation is used radiator 516 may comprise a laser operating in the visible or non-visible spectrum, and the speed of belt 528 may be determined by measuring the Doppler shift of returning beam 532. Alternatively, if sensor 512 uses ultrasonic radiation, radiator 516 and receiver 520 may comprise piezoelectric transducers, and the speed of belt 528 may also be determined by measuring the Doppler shift of returning beam 532.

[0130] When optical electromagnetic radiation is used, receiver 520 may comprise a camera that is configured to identify a selected region of belt 532 by acquiring images of the belt. The selected region may have a pattern on the belt that comprises preset shapes and / or a preset color pattern, such as a logo, and the camera may be configured to recognize the preset shapes using computer vision and / or the preset color pattern by analyzing the RGB color values of the acquired images.

[0131] The speed of belt 528 may be calculated using the time difference between consecutive times of acquisition of the pattern. The time differences may be configured to correspond to belt speeds using a calibration process, wherein the belt is activated at known speeds. Alternatively, the time differences may be formulated to correspond to belt speeds from a known length of the belt.

[0132] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, when beams 524 and 532 comprise electromagnetic radiation such as optical radiation, a fiducial mark 536, herein assumed to be recognized optically, is placed on belt 528. To use the fiducial mark, receiver 520 is configured to register times at which the mark is visible to the receiver, i.e., times when beam 532 is returning from mark 536, and the speed of belt 528 is formulated using the time difference between consecutive times of registration of mark 536, as described above.

[0133] In a further alternative embodiment of the present invention, when beams 524 and 532 comprise optical electromagnetic radiation, a second optically recognizable fiducial mark 540 is placed, at a known distance from first mark 536 on belt 528. Receiver 520 is configured to register successive times when the two marks are visible to the receiver, and the speed of the belt may be calculated from the time difference between the successive times and the known distance.

[0134] In a disclosed embodiment of the present invention, receiver 520 comprises a Hall magnetic field detector, and radiator 516 is not present. In the disclosed embodiment, fiducial mark 536 is a ferromagnetic element that may be magnetized, and fiducial mark 540 is not present. As is described above, receiver 520 is configured to register time differences between consecutive times when the mark is detected by the Hall detector, and the time differences may be formulated to correspond to belt speeds.

[0135] In another disclosed embodiment of the present invention, receiver 520 comprises an RF transceiver operating as both a transmitter and a receiver, and radiator 516 is not present. In this case, fiducial mark 536 is an RFID tag, and fiducial mark 540 is not present. Receiver 520, acting as a transceiver, is configured to register time differences between consecutive times when the RFID tag is detected by the receiver, and the time differences may be formulated to correspond to belt speeds, as is described above.

[0136] In a further disclosed embodiment of the present invention, receiver 520 comprises an electrical circuit continuity detector having a pair of conductors terminating in proximity to a preselected region of belt 528, and radiator 516 is not present. In this case, fiducial mark 536 is an electrical conductor which, when in the preselected region, galvanically connects the terminations of the conductors, and fiducial mark 540 is not present. Receiver 520, acting as a continuity detector, is configured to register time differences between consecutive times when the fiducial mark connects the conductors, and the time differences may be formulated to correspond to belt speeds, as is described above.

[0137] In an embodiment of the present invention, loT microcontroller 120D is coupled to radiator 516 and receiver 520, and using signals from both is configured to produce a signal indicative of a speed of belt 528.

[0138] In addition to measuring the speed of belt 528 using sensor 512, since CBD 500 is attached to a section of the treadmill that tilts the belt, IMU 116D may be configured to measure a tilt of treadmill 32, i.e., a rotation angle from the horizontal of belt 528, so that loT microcontroller 120D may provide a signal indicative of a tilt of the belt. In operation of CBD 500, loT microcontroller 120D receives signals from sensor 512 that are indicative of belt 528 moving, i.e., having a non-zero speed. Alternatively or additionally, loT microcontroller 120D receives signals from IMU 116D indicating that user 38 is operating treadmill 32. IMU 116D may be configured so that the signals provided to loT microcontroller 120D are in response to the vibrations of frame 504 generated by user 38 beginning to set up the treadmill, and / or by the steps of user 38 on belt 528 when using the treadmill. The signals may also be in response to IMU 116D registering a change of tilt of the treadmill.

[0139] Responsive to the signals from sensor 512 and / or IMU 116D, loT microcontroller 120D may exit from a dormant to an active mode of operation and begin to transmit data, generated in response to the signals from the sensor and the IMU, to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0140] Other methods for detecting exit from a dormant state to an active state are described in the Device Wake Up section above and are assumed to be comprised within the scope of the present invention.

[0141] In addition to calculating a speed and tilt of belt 528 from the transmitted data, algorithm 56, which may in some embodiments be stored in a memory of loT microcontroller 120D, may be configured to derive other results from the data transmitted by the loT microcontroller. Such results comprise, for example, a total “distance travelled”, a number of steps, an average time between steps, and an overall time of use of the treadmill by user 38. Other relevant data that may be transmitted is provided in the Data Transmission section above.

[0142] Fig. 4 A shows schematic views of guided weight machine 36 and of monitoring product M36 for the machine, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the description and in the claims, a guided weight machine is a machine that guides a weight used in the machine, typically in response to action by a machine user, along a predefined guided path. The predefined guided path is typically in response to a weight moving around an axis of the machine, or along, or in parallel to, a rail of the machine, but may use other mechanical means to effect the predefined guided path.

[0143] The weight path followed in a guided weight machine is in contrast to the path followed by weights attached to a cable, such as is described above with reference to Fig. 2A. It is also in contrast to the path followed by the weights of barbells, when a user lifts and lowers the barbells, such as is described below with reference to Figs. 5, 6, and 7.

[0144] In Fig. 4 A a view 600 shows the machine 36 from behind, and shows two sets of weights 604, 608, each set being supported by a respective bar 612, 616. Bar 612, 616 are also herein termed frame 612, 616. Views 620 and 624 show side views of weight set 608 in two configurations. View 620 illustrates weights 608 in a resting state; view 624 illustrates weights 608 when they are lifted from the resting state.

[0145] A monitoring product M36 for machine 36 is formed of two components: a load cell 628 and a controlled weight lifting device (CWD) 632, the internal components of which are shown in a view 636. The load cell provides signals indicative of the weight or load on the load cell; CWD 632 generates signals, inter alia, in response to movement of the weights coupled to the device. In an embodiment described herein, both load cell 628 and CWD 632 have power supplies, as described below.

[0146] As stated above, weight set 608 is supported by bar 616, and in order to operate the weight set a handle 640 is attached to the bar, and another handle 644, orthogonal to handle 640, is also attached to the bar.

[0147] Bar 616 is configured to be attached by a hinge 648 to a rear support 652 of machine 36. As is described below, hinge 648 defines an axis 648A about which weights 608 rotate. The lifting of weights 608 illustrated in view 624 is achieved by user 38 lying on a bed of the machine and using handle 640 and / or handle 644 to rotate bar 616 about hinge 648 / axis 648 A, so that weights 608 follow a generally circular path with axis 648A at its center.

[0148] In the resting state of the machine illustrated in view 620, bar 616 is retained, in a resting position by an intermediate support 656 of machine 36. Load cell 628 is fixed to intermediate support 656 so that in the resting state bar 616 rests on the load cell and the signal generated by the load cell is indicative of the load generated by weights 608.

[0149] Load cell 628 and CWD 632 are configured to communicate with each other by connecting cables or wirelessly. For clarity in the description hereinbelow the communication is assumed be wirelessly, and those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to alter the description, mutatis mutandis, if the communication is by connecting cables.

[0150] CWD 632 has a generally box-like structure with a housing 662, and is illustrated in view 636. In housing 662 are a power source 112E, an IMU 116E, and an loT microcontroller 120E, which are coupled together and, except for the differences described below, operate generally as described above.

[0151] In an alternative embodiment, loT microcontroller 120E is located in load cell 628, rather than in CWD 632.

[0152] Load cell 628 comprises a transceiver 668, which communicates with loT microcontroller 120E so as to provide the microcontroller with the load signal. Elements in load cell 628, such as the load sensor and the transceiver, are powered by a power source 670, typically a battery.

[0153] Load cell 628 also comprises a load sensor 664 that is configured to provide a load signal indicative of the load generated by weights 608 in the resting state of the machine, i.e., when bar 616 rests on the load cell.

[0154] Because bar 616 acts as a lever, and because the bar is attached to hinge 648, the load signal from sensor 664 when the bar rests on the load cell is typically some fraction of the load value of weights 608. It will be understood that that the fractional value may be determined by calibration using known values of weights 608.

[0155] In operation of product M36, loT microcontroller 120E receives a load signal from sensor 664 and a motion signal from IMU 116E. Responsive to the load and / or motion signals loT microcontroller 120E may exit from a dormant to an active mode of operation and begin to transmit data, generated in response to the signals from the sensor and the IMU, to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0156] Algorithm 56 is configured to use the transmitted data to provide results of work performed by user 38 when operating the machine. The results typically comprise an overall session time of machine use, a number of lifts performed in a session, a time between lifts, and a numerical value, in pounds or kilograms, of the weights lifted. Other relevant data that may be transmitted is provided in the Data Transmission section above. Fig. 4B shows schematic views of guided weight machine 37 and of monitoring product M37 for the machine, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the structure and operation of machine 37 and monitoring product M37 are generally similar to the structure and operation of machine 36 and monitoring product M36 (Fig. 4A), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both figures are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0157] As described above for product M36, monitoring product M37 is formed of two components: load cell 628 and CWD 632, the internal elements of which are shown in a view 201 of the figure. For simplicity the two components are herein assumed to be coupled by a cable 203, permitting signal transfer between the components, so that there is no transceiver in load cell 628.

[0158] A view 205 illustrates machine 37 in a resting or dormant state, and a view 207 illustrates the machine in an operational or active state.

[0159] Machine 37 is built on a framework 211, to which is fixed a seat 215 and a rail 219. A footplate 223 is attached to a sled 227 of the machine, and the sled is configured to slide on rail 219. Sled 227 is also herein termed frame 227. Weights 608 are attached to the footplate or alternatively are attached to the sled. During operation of machine 37 user 38 sits on seat 215 and uses their feet and footplate 223 to slide sled 227 and attached weights 608 along rail 219. It will be understood that because of the constraining effect of rail 219, the path followed by weights 608 is parallel to the rail. This is in contrast to machine 36 (Fig. 4A) which has a hinge 648 constraining weights 608 to follow a circular path about axis 648A.

[0160] To monitor machine 37 with product M37, i.e., load cell 628 and CWD 632, the two components are fixed together and are attached to sled 227. The frame of machine 37 also comprises a fixed buffer 231, and when the load cell and CWD are attached to sled 227, they are attached so that in the resting state of the machine the load cell contacts buffer 231, as is illustrated in view 205. In the resting, i.e., dormant, state the contact of the load cell with buffer 231 causes load sensor 664 to generate a load signal that depends on the load value of weights 608 as well as the angle of rail 219. In the active state of machine 37, illustrated in view 207, load cell 628 does not contact buffer 231, so that the signal from sensor 664 corresponds to a zero load value on the sensor.

[0161] Product M37 operates substantially as described above for product M36, so that for product M37 loT microcontroller 120E receives signals from sensor 664 and from IMU 116E. Responsive to the signals loT microcontroller 120E may exit from a dormant to an active mode of operation and begin to transmit data, generated in response to the signals.

[0162] For product M37 algorithm 56 is configured to use the transmitted data to provide results of work performed by user 38 when operating machine 37, as is described above for product M36.

[0163] Fig. 5 is a schematic illustration of workout station 46, and of a barbell 700 used with the station, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Workout station 46 may comprise a station where user 38 uses a barbell, such as a barbell station, a barbell stand, a bench rack, or a bench press. For clarity and simplicity, in the following description workout station 46 is also referred to as bench press 46. During use of the bench press, user 38 raises and lowers barbell 700, comprising weights 702 retained on a bar 704 by clips 706 and 708. The figure shows a side view of press 46, with user 38 lifting the barbell to a raised position. When not lifted, bar 704 of the barbell, with its attached weights, is held by a weight retainer 710 fixed to a frame 712 of the press.

[0164] A monitoring product M46 for bench press 46 is formed of two components: one of clips 706, 708, herein assumed to be clip 706, and a load sensor 716, fixed to weight retainer 710. The internal elements of clip 706 and load sensor 716 are shown in a view 720 of Fig. 5. Clip 706 generates signals indicative of the movement of barbell 700; sensor 716 generates signals indicative of the weight of barbell 700.

[0165] Clip 706 has, located within the clip, an IMU 116F, a power source 724 such as a battery, and a transceiver 728. Load sensor 716 has a generally box-like housing 732, and mounted within the housing is a power source 112F, a load cell 736, and an loT microcontroller 120F. Microcontroller 120F is configured to communicate with IMU 116F via transceiver 728. In an alternative embodiment microcontroller 120F is in clip 706 and transceiver 728 is in housing 732. When barbell 700 is in retainer 710 it rests on load sensor 716, so that, as stated above, the load sensor generates signals indicative of the weight of the barbell. In some embodiments, RFID tags 703, providing the value of each of the weights on the barbell, are attached to the weights. In this case loT microcontroller 120F may be configured as a transceiver to receive signals from the RFID tags, so as to ascertain the weight of the barbell.

[0166] In operation of product M46, loT microcontroller 120F receives a load signal from load sensor 716 and a motion signal from IMU 116F in clip 706. Responsive to the load and / or motion signals loT microcontroller 120F may exit from a dormant to an active mode of operation and begin to transmit data, generated in response to the signals from the sensor and the IMU, to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0167] Algorithm 56 is configured to use the transmitted data to provide results of work performed by user 38 when operating regular bench press 46, substantially as described above for the operation of machine 36. As for machine 36, the results for the regular bench press typically comprise identification of the user, an overall session time of bench press use, a number of lifts performed in a session, a time between lifts, and a numerical value, in pounds or kilograms, of the weights lifted.

[0168] The description above refers to barbell 700 being used in a bench press. In an alternative embodiment the barbell may not be used in a bench press, and may be used without weight retainer 710 or load sensor 716 , and those having ordinary skill in the art will be able to adapt the description, mutatis mutandis, when retainer 710 and load sensor 716 are not present. For example, the barbell may initially be on the floor of the gym and may be raised and lowered from the floor. In this case loT microcontroller 120F is in clip 706, as described above for the alternative embodiment, and is configured to operate just in response to signals from IMU 116F.

[0169] Fig. 6 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus M54 for monitoring weights 54, according to an embodiment of the present invention. Apparatus M54 comprises a generally disc-like planar pad 804, which is horizontal, whereon user 38 may stand while lifting weights that are to be monitored. As illustrated in the figure, user 38 stands on pad 804 and lifts weights 54A and 54B, the motions of which are to be monitored by apparatus M54. Each weight, typically a barbell as shown in the figure, has a respective identifying RFID weight tag T54A and T54B attached. It will be understood that the weights to be monitored by apparatus M54 may comprise other than weights 54A, 54B, and that such other weights (not shown in the figure) have respective identifying RFID tags.

[0170] A view 816 illustrates a planar underside 820 of pad 804. Attached, in known positions, to the underside are three generally similar RF transceivers 824A, 824B, and 824C, generically termed transceivers 824, and in one embodiment the transceivers are distributed generally symmetrically about a center of planar underside 820 and lie at the vertices of a triangle.

[0171] Transceivers 824 comprise respective antennas 828A, 828B, and 828C, generically termed antennas 828, which transmit respective RF transmissions to a region 832 in proximity to, and above, pad 804. In response to the RF transmissions, weight tags T54A and T54B and user tag 42 generate respective return transmissions, which are acquired by the antennas. As is known in the art, the strength of the return transmission provides a metric for estimating a distance between the antenna and the RFID tags, as well as between the antenna and the user.

[0172] In the figure double-headed arrows 836 illustrate paths between antennas 828 and RFID tag T54A and user tag 42.

[0173] An IMU 116G and an loT microcontroller 120G are located on the underside of pad 804. At least some of the components on the underside of the pad may be powered by a power source 112G or alternatively by cabling (not shown in the figure) from a line source.

[0174] In a disclosed embodiment, a scale 840 is located on the underside of pad 804, the scale providing a signal indicative of the weight of a user of apparatus M54. loT microcontroller 120G is coupled to operate transceivers 824, i.e., to generate the RF transmissions from their antennas and to register the strengths of the returning transmissions. loT microcontroller 120G is also coupled to IMU 116G, which in one embodiment is configured to act as a stepping trigger for apparatus M54, i.e., to provide a signal to the microcontroller to exit from a dormant to an active mode of operation when user 38 steps on pad 804. In an alternative embodiment, rather than using IMU 116G as a stepping trigger to exit from the dormant mode, the microcontroller uses changes in returning transmissions acquired by the antennas to ascertain that the weights are being used, so that the dormant mode has been exited.

[0175] On exiting from its dormant mode, loT microcontroller 120G may begin to receive signals generated by the return transmissions acquired by antennas 828, and from the received signals estimate a distance from each RFID tag generating the return transmissions to a respective antenna. For each RFID tag the microcontroller is able to calculate a location of the RFID tag with respect to pad 804, using the three estimated distances from the antennas and the known locations of each of the antennas. The calculated location provides a height for each of the RFID tags from pad 804.

[0176] In response to the calculated locations referred to above the microcontroller transmits data, corresponding to the locations and to the antenna received transmissions to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0177] Algorithm 56 is configured to use the transmitted data to provide results of work performed by user 38 when lifting weights in region 832. The results typically comprise identifying the user as well as an overall session time for lifting the weights, a number of weights lifted, a number of lifts performed in a session, a height of each lift as determined from the change of location of the RFID tag, a time between lifts, and a numerical value, in pounds or kilograms, of each of the weights lifted.

[0178] Fig. 7 is a schematic illustration of an apparatus M54’ for monitoring weights, according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. Apart from the differences described below, the operation of apparatus M54’ is generally similar to that of apparatus M54 (Fig. 6), and elements indicated by the same reference numerals in both apparatus M54 and M54’ are generally similar in construction and in operation.

[0179] In contrast to apparatus M54, apparatus M54’ has no pad 804, so that transceivers 824 and antennas 828 are fixed, in known positions, to a planar surface of gym 20. Herein as illustrated, the transceivers and antennas are illustrated as being fixed to a wall 904 of gym 20, but in other embodiments they could be fixed to any other convenient surface, such as a ceiling 908 of the gym. An loT microcontroller 120H is positioned on a surface of gym 20, herein as illustrated on wall 904, and is coupled, as for apparatus M54, to operate transceivers 824. While in the figure user 38 is illustrated as lifting one weight 54A, it will be understood that apparatus M54’ is able to track multiple weights simultaneously, as is described above for apparatus M54.

[0180] In apparatus M54’ transceivers 824 transmit respective RF transmissions to a region 912 in proximity to the transceivers. In response to the RF transmissions, weight tag T54A and user tag 42 generate respective return transmissions, which are acquired by the antennas.

[0181] The return transmissions acquired by the antennas are indicative of the position of RFIDs, in region 912, from the antennas. In an embodiment of the invention loT microcontroller 120H uses changes in returning transmissions acquired by the antennas to ascertain that the weights having the RFIDs are being used, so that a dormant mode, wherein there are no changes in return transmissions, has been exited, and an active mode of operation is initiated.

[0182] As described above for apparatus M54, loT microcontroller 120H in apparatus M54’, on exiting from its dormant mode, may begin to receive signals generated by the return transmissions acquired by antennas 828, and from the received signals estimate a distance from each RFID tag generating the return transmissions to a respective antenna. For each RFID tag the microcontroller is able to calculate a location of the RFID tag with respect to wall 904, using the three estimated distances from the antennas and the known locations of each of the antennas. The calculated location provides a height for each of the RFID tags from the floor of gym 20.

[0183] As is also described above for apparatus M54, in response to the calculated locations loT microcontroller 120G transmits data, corresponding to the locations and to the antenna received transmissions, to CPU 44 and / or server 60.

[0184] Algorithm 56 is configured to use the transmitted data to provide results of work performed by user 38 when lifting weights in region 912, substantially as described above for apparatus M54.

[0185] While the description of apparatus M54 and apparatus M54’ assumes that there are three transceivers 824 and associated antennas 828, it will be understood that larger numbers of transceivers and antennas, arranged to be at the vertices of a planar polygon, may be used, so that such larger numbers are included within the scope of the present invention. Typically, the planar polygon is convex. Alternatively, in some embodiments there are two, rather than three, transceivers 824 and antennas 828.

[0186] It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above are cited by way of example, and that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and which are not disclosed in the prior art.

Claims

CLAIMS1. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus comprising: at least one housing, configured to attach to a cable on which a weight is suspended, so as to enclose a section of the cable therein; a strain sensor located within the at least one housing, configured to contact the cable section when the at least one housing encloses the cable section and to provide a strain signal indicative of a tension of the cable section in response to the contact; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the at least one housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the at least one housing; and a communication interface located within the at least one housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the strain signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

2. The apparatus for according to claim 1, wherein the strain sensor comprises a strain gauge.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the at least one housing comprises a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein, and wherein the single housing comprises a protuberance, contacting the strain gauge and the cable section and constraining the cable section to form an extended cable section that is concave, and wherein the extended cable section exerts a force via the protuberance on the strain gauge.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the at least one housing comprises a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein, and wherein the single housing comprises a connector contacting the strain gauge and the cable section and constraining the cable section to form an extended cable section that is convex, and wherein the extended cable section exerts a force via the connector on the strain gauge.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to exit the apparatusfrom a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation in response to the motion signal.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the at least one housing comprises a single housing having the strain sensor, the IMU, and the communication interface therein.

8. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus comprising: a housing, configured to support one or more weights positioned on the housing; a load sensor located within the housing, configured to provide a load signal indicative of a weight of the one or more weights when supported by the housing; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located in proximity to a selected weight of the one or more weights, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the selected weight; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to exit the apparatus from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation in response to the motion signal.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

11. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus comprising: a housing, configured to be attached to a weight selected from a plurality of weights; respective identifiers, attached to each of the weights, configured to provide respective identifying signals in response to a radiofrequency transmission; a transceiver located within the housing, configured to transmit the radiofrequency transmission and to generate respective output signals indicative ofrespective locations of each of the plurality of weights in response to the respective identifying signals; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the respective output signals and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to operate as the transceiver and to exit the apparatus from a dormant mode of operation to an active mode of operation.

13. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

14. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the exit from the dormant mode to the active mode is in response to a change of the respective output signals.

15. The apparatus according to claim 12, wherein the exit from the dormant mode to the active mode is in response to the motion signal.

16. Apparatus for monitoring a treadmill, comprising: a housing, configured to fixedly attach to a frame of the treadmill; a speed sensor contained in the housing, configured to generate an output signal indicative of a speed of motion of a belt of the treadmill; and a communication interface within the housing, coupled to transmit data responsive to the output signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the treadmill.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the speed sensor is configured to direct a beam of radiation toward the belt of the treadmill.

18. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the beam of radiation comprises an ultrasonic beam.

19. The apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the beam of radiation comprises an optical beam.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the speed sensor comprises a laser and a receiver of reflected radiation of the optical beam from the belt, and is configured to generate the output signal in response to a Doppler shift of the reflected radiation.

21. The apparatus according claim 19, and comprising at least one fiducial mark positioned on the belt, and wherein the speed sensor is configured to generate the output signal in response to a time registered for the at least one fiducial mark to be visible to the speed sensor.

22. The apparatus according to claim 16, and comprising an inertial measurement unit (IMU), contained in the housing, configured to provide a signal to the communication interface indicative of a tilt of the treadmill.

23. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus comprising: a housing, attached to a movable frame of the exercise equipment, the frame having a weight coupled thereto and being configured, when moved, to translate the weight along a predefined path; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; a load cell, attached to a support of the exercise equipment, configured, in a resting state of the frame, to retain the frame and to provide a load signal indicative of a load generated by the weight; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the exercise equipment comprises a hinge, and wherein the movable frame is configured to rotate about the hinge so as to rotate the weight about an axis defined by the hinge.

25. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the exercise equipment comprises a rail, and wherein the movable frame is configured to translate along the rail so as to translate the weight along a line defined by the rail.

26. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to facilitate communications between the IMU and the load cell.

27. The apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

28. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the communication interface is located in one of the housing and the load cell.

29. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, the apparatus comprising: a clip, attached to a bar having a weight mounted thereon; an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the clip, configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the bar; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

30. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to receive communications from the IMU.

31. The apparatus according to claim 30, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

32. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the communication interface is located in the clip.

33. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the exercise equipment comprises a workout station, the apparatus further comprising: a load cell, attached to a weight retainer, configured to support the bar, of the workout station, the load cell being configured to provide a load signal indicative of a force on the weight retainer.

34. The apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the communication interface is located in the load cell.

35. Apparatus for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising:a weight identifying device attached to a weight, the device being configured to provide a signal identifying the weight in response to receiving a radiofrequency (RF) signal; at least two antennas located at vertices of a planar polygon positioned in proximity to the weight, each of the antennas being configured to transmit respective RF transmissions to the weight identifying device, and to generate respective signals in response to received RF radiation from the device; and a communication interface, coupled to transmit data responsive to the respective signals to a processor, for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

36. The apparatus according to claim 35, wherein the communication interface comprises an Internet of Things (loT) microcontroller configured to determine a position of the weight in response to the respective signals.

37. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein the loT microcontroller comprises a memory wherein storing an algorithm configured to produce the data.

38. A method for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising: attaching at least one housing to a cable on which a weight is suspended, so as to enclose a section of the cable therein; locating within the at least one housing a strain sensor to contact the cable section when the at least one housing encloses the cable section; configuring the strain sensor to provide a strain signal indicative of a tension of the cable section in response to the contact; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the at least one housing, and configuring the IMU to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the at least one housing; and coupling a communication interface, located within the at least one housing, to transmit data responsive to the strain signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

39. A method for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising: configuring a housing to support one or more weights positioned on the housing;locating a load sensor within the housing, and configuring the load sensor to provide a load signal indicative of a weight of the one or more weights when supported by the housing; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) in proximity to a selected weight of the one or more weights, and configuring the IMU to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the selected weight; and coupling a communication interface, located within the housing, to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

40. A method for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising: attaching a housing to a weight selected from a plurality of weights; attaching respective identifiers to each of the weights and configuring the identifiers to provide respective identifying signals in response to a radiofrequency transmission; configuring a transceiver, located within the housing, to transmit the radiofrequency transmission and to generate respective output signals indicative of respective locations of each of the plurality of weights in response to the respective identifying signals; configuring an inertial measurement unit (IMU), located within the housing, to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; and coupling a communication interface, located within the housing, to transmit data responsive to the respective output signals and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

41. A method for monitoring a treadmill, comprising: fixedly attaching a housing to a frame of the treadmill; configuring a speed sensor contained in the housing to generate an output signal indicative of a speed of motion of the belt; and coupling a communication interface contained within the housing to transmit data responsive to the output signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the treadmill.

42. A method for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising: attaching a housing to a movable frame of the exercise equipment, the frame having a weight mounted coupled thereto and being configured, when moved, to translate the weight along a predefined path; locating within the housing an inertial measurement unit (IMU) configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the housing; attaching a load cell to a support of the exercise equipment, the load cell being configured, in a resting state of the frame, to retain the frame and to provide a load signal indicative of a load generated by the weight; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the load signal and the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

43. A method for monitoring a exercise equipment, comprising: attaching a clip to a bar having a weight mounted thereon; locating an inertial measurement unit (IMU) within the clip, the IMU being configured to provide a motion signal in response to movement of the bar; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the motion signal to a processor for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

44. A method for monitoring exercise equipment, comprising: attaching a weight identifying device to a weight, the device being configured to provide a signal identifying the weight in response to receiving a radiofrequency (RF) signal; locating at least two antennas at respective vertices of a planar polygon and positioned in proximity to the weight, each of the antennas being configured to transmit respective RF transmissions to the weight identifying device, and to generate respective signals in response to received RF radiation from the device; and coupling a communication interface to transmit data responsive to the respective signals to a processor, for tracking work performed on the exercise equipment.

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