Removable Mobile Device Holder for Automatic Activity Data Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing activity tracking devices are often specific to single activities, require manual mode changes, and are inconveniently sized or attached, failing to provide durable, waterproof, and power-efficient data collection for diverse physical activities like hiking, biking, or skiing.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus with a removably attached mobile device that automatically identifies activity types based on holder identifiers or movement, collects activity data without user input, and resumes sessions upon reattachment within a threshold time or distance, associating data with specific gear and tracking milestones.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a smartphone is used to capture activity data, then data collection capability is improved, but durability and waterproofing are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by making the mobile device removable and attachable to multiple different holders for various activities (wrist holder for running, bike holder for cycling, etc.). This allows a single smartphone to serve multiple activity tracking functions without requiring activity-specific hardware, while the removable design protects the smartphone from damage by allowing easy removal from harsh environments.
2Measurement precision
If activity-specific devices are used, then measurement precision for specific activities is improved, but device versatility is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses a universal mobile device that can be attached to various holders designed for different activities. The mobile device runs software that automatically detects the holder type and configures appropriate activity metrics, providing activity-specific measurement precision while maintaining device versatility through a single multi-functional platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adapts its measurement capabilities based on the detected activity context. When the mobile device is attached to a specific holder, the system automatically identifies the activity type and adjusts the metrics being collected, transitioning between different measurement modes without requiring manual user input or hardware changes.
3Device complexity
If manual mode changes are required, then device complexity is reduced, but ease of operation is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically detecting when the mobile device is attached to a holder and identifying the activity type based on holder identifiers or movement patterns. The system automatically configures and starts data collection without requiring manual mode changes or user input, making the operation seamless while keeping the underlying system relatively simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback from holder identifiers (such as NFC tags or RFID tags in the holder) or from movement sensors to automatically determine the activity type. This feedback mechanism allows the system to self-configure the appropriate measurement parameters and start data collection automatically, eliminating the need for manual user input.
4Measurement precision
If GPS is continuously active for precise location tracking, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic action by leveraging the device's natural wake/sleep cycles. GPS and other sensors are activated only when the device detects it has been placed in a activity holder, automatically transitioning from a low-power state to an active data collection state. This periodic activation based on holder detection provides precise location tracking only when needed, significantly reducing overall energy consumption compared to continuous GPS operation.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided for collecting activity data with a removably attached mobile device. The mobile device may be moved to various holders configured to be used in different activities. The data is collected according to a determined activity. The start and end of a session is automatically detected based on connectivity to the holder. Metrics may be tracked for specific gear, as well as various spans of time such as sessions, seasons, and/or lifetimes. Milestones and highlights may be determined for various combinations of the various activities, gear and/or terms.