Note: Descriptions are shown in the official language in which they were submitted.
TITLE: SMART MATTRESS COVER APPARATUS AND METHOD
INVENTOR: ALFONSO FABIAN DE LA FUENTE SANCHEZ
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims priority to UK Patent Application Serial Number
GB1820034.5, filed on
December 8, 2018.
BACKGROUND
People spend % of their lives sleeping in bed. Some people use fitness
tracking devices and
apparatus that helps them to work healthier like the smart sit and stand desk
and the smart
under the desk bike.
SUMMARY
A method and apparatus in the form of a smart cover comprising a fabric that
fits a mattress or
similar. The smart mattress cover comprises embedded sensors that connect to a
PCBA, which
comprises a CPU, memory, and a wireless communication module that connects to
a smart
gadget, computer, or remote server, which stores a database administered by an
operator. The
apparatus further comprising a load balance that installs under the bedposts.
The load balances
calculate the weight of the bed and the persons on it, then transmits the data
to the CPU. The
method where the smart mattress cover CPU accesses the database. The method
further
comprising an identification of the people lying in bed by detecting their
presence, their position
and comparing that data to the database to make a positive identification of
the person and to
track their fitness data by recording sessions.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIGS. Ito 12 describe the basic concepts of a Sit and Stand desk and the
ecosystem
FIG. 13 shows a chart describing the relationship between the workspace
fitness ecosystem,
the user, and the machine learning/artificial intelligence database/engine.
FIG. 14 shows a diagram with the data collected from the devices.
FIG. 15 shows a flowchart describing how the music is classified and
correlated to stimuli
options.
FIG. 16 shows a flowchart describing one embodiment of the invention.
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FIG. 17 shows a table with the session data collected from the devices. In
this case, showing
the data collected from the Desktop Computer.
FIG. 18 shows a pair of surveys taken after the sessions from the example in
FIG. 17.
FIG. 19 is a table showing examples based on FIGS. 17 and 18 for values
collected from the
workspace fitness ecosystem.
FIG. 20 shows the collected data values and the relationship or influence
between the Value
Codes collected from the devices
FIG. 21 shows a diagram of a computing system.
FIG. 22 deleted
FIG. 22 shows a diagram of the Smart Mat of the invention.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing how the Smart anti fatigue mat connects to a
Smart Sit and Stand
Desk.
FIG. 24 shows a top view of the smart mat.
FIG. 25A is a side view of the anti-fatigue mat (2500), with a top surface
(2501) on the side, it
shows the i/o ports including for example a USB connector and a power
connector.
FIG. 25B is a side cross sectional view of the smart anti-fatigue mat.
FIG. 26 shows a top cross sectional view of the smart anti fatigue mat
comprising a fan.
FIG. 27A shows a diagram describing the relationship of components of the
apparatus.
FIG. 27B showS a diagram describing the relationship of components of the
apparatus.
FIG. 28A shows a diagram of the connectivity of components, the apparatus.
FIG. 28B shows a different embodiment of the invention, wherein the apparatus
connects to a
smart gadget or computer
FIG. 29 Shows a top view of the apparatus of our invention.
FIG. 30 Shows a top close-up view of the smart mattress cover with sensors.
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the detection of a human and the recording of a
session.
FIG. 32 shows a flowchart of how the vibration and heating features can be
controlled locally or
remotely.
FIG. 33 shows the steps taken to do an identification of the people lying in
bed where the
apparatus of the invention is covering the mattress.
FIG. 34 is a flowchart of the method further comprising a second
identification of the people
lying in bed.
FIG. 35 shows a flow chart of how to deal with an unidentified human session.
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the steps on how the apparatus helps to
stimulate the user.
FIGS. 37A to 37F show top views of a bed with the mattress cover of the
invention with
silhouettes of users.
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FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing how the machine learning data from the
artificial intelligence
engine is fed to the system.
FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing the benefits of using the artificial
intelligence engine.
FIG. 40 shows a diagram with relationship of features connected to the
artificial intelligence
engine.
=
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Specific embodiments of the technology will now be described in detail with
reference to the
accompanying FIGS. In the following detailed description of embodiments of the
technology,
numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough
understanding of the
technology. However, it will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art
that the technology
may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-
known features have
not been described in detail to avoid unnecessarily complicating the
description.
In the following description of FIGS., any component described with regard to
a FIG., in various
embodiments of the technology, may be equivalent to one or more like-named
components
described with regard to any other FIG. For brevity, descriptions of these
components will not
be repeated with regard to each FIG. Thus, each and every embodiment of the
components of
each FIG. is incorporated by reference and assumed to be optionally present
within every other
FIG. having one or more like-named components. Additionally, in accordance
with various
embodiments of the technology, any description of the components of a FIG. is
to be interpreted
as an optional embodiment, which may be implemented in addition to, in
conjunction with, or in
place of the embodiments described with regard to a corresponding like-named
component in
any other FIG.
In general, embodiments of the invention relate to method and apparatus in the
form of a smart
cover comprising a fabric that fits a ,mattress or similar. The smart mattress
cover comprises
embedded sensors that connect to a PCBA, which comprises a cpu, memory, and a
wireless
communication module that connects to a smart gadget, computer, or remote
server, which
store a database administered by an operator. The apparatus further comprising
a load balance
that installs under the bedposts. The load balances calculate the weight of
the bed and the
persons on it, then transmits the data to the CPU. The method where the smart
mattress cover
CPU accesses the database. The method further comprising an identification of
the people lying
in bed by detecting their presence, their position and comparing that data to
the database to
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make a positive identification of the person and to track their fitness data
by recording sessions.
This apparatus and method works hand in hand with the method and a network of
devices that
include Workspace Fitness Devices, such as Smart Under-the-desk Bikes and
Smart Desk
Controllers embedded in Smart Sit-and-Stand Desks that connect or "talk" to
one another,
electronically identify individual users, track their activities, connect to a
remote server database
and modify its records as described in FIGS. 1 to 26. Secondary devices, such
as smartphones,
can connect to this network and remotely monitor and control the settings on
devices such as
the desk's height or the required tension in the Smart Under-the-desk Bike.
The performance
data captured by this network of devices can be shared to fitness tracking
software or devices.
By using the invention, we plan to motivate employees that sit behind the desk
for many hours a
day to improve their health, performance and overall well being.
the invention refers to technology based on Smart Desk Controllers, Workspace
Fitness
Controllers embedded in equipment such as Smart Sit-and-Stand Desks and Smart
Under-the-desk Bikes, a brief background of the concept is explained below.
The tasks performed in a desk, be it an office, home, or school desk, have
changed over the
years. Office desks in the middle of the past century tended to be heavy as
they needed to
support heavy typewriters. Additionally, desks in a work office were in open
areas where users
didn't want people to move their desks away. Some were even made of metal or
heavy
materials.
In its earlier years, the office desk evolved from supporting typewriters to
CRT monitors and a
computer keyboard. Soon, CRT monitors were also replaced by newer computers
with a mouse,
a keyboard, and a lightweight LCD monitor (or a pair of LCD monitors)
connected to a CPU or a
laptop. In essence, office desks have remained the same over time. Today, most
desks are still
comprised of legs and a flat desktop surface resting at a height of
approximately 30", allowing
the user to sit comfortably in a chair while performing their tasks.
There are studies that claim people who work at a desk for more than 8
continuous hours must
stand up from time to time. It has also been claimed that certain people
experience better
thought processing and focus while standing as opposed to sitting.
A newer type of desk that was previously only available to architects and
graphic designers is
making its way to offices, these are the height-adjustable desks commonly
known as
"Sit-and-Stand Desks". Some have a manual crank to adjust the height, others
have an electric
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motor - the latter using a controller. Basic controllers only turn the motor
up and down, whereas
some more advanced controllers can sense the height of the desk, have
programmable
memory, and have integrated timers to alert the user when it is time to stand
up and continue
their work. New Sit-and-Stand Desks usually have a pair of legs and must be
connected to the
electricity in order to provide power to the motors that adjust the desk's
height. Most tabletops
are made of solid material, thus, the furniture manufacturers need to connect
all cables, motors,
and connectors below the table top.
Electric motor-driven Sit-and-Stand Desks require a controller to control the
up and down
functions. Some controllers are even calibrated to provide visual feedback
through a display
with the approximate height of the desk at the current position and have
memory settings where
the user can program at which height he/she prefers to use that desk.
Employers and/or users of these types of desks are concerned about the
personal health issues
of seating for long periods of time.
In the case of offices, a desk is typically used by a single user; however,
other workspaces may
be occupied by desks that don't have a single user, but rather multiple ones.
That is the case of
shared spaces in offices or school classrooms. Electric Sit-and-Stand Desks
need an AC input.
Desks usually hold a 'monitor and/or a CPU in the form of a desktop, laptop,
or tablet. Such
devices require energy to work or recharge the device.
Fitness stationary bikes are capable to capture the energy generated by
pedaling (such as
dynamo) have been around for many years.
IOT Fitness Devices (I0T-FD) such as standing bikes are available at several
big-end fitness
centers around the globe. These devices are able to transmit captured data
when a workout
takes place. There are different methods for the 10T-FD to capture the ID of
the person using
the device, such methods include RF identification, bar code reading, and
security authorization
(i.e. manual input of the login credentials of the user).
The inventions described in this patent application are related to workspace
fitness as a concept to live healthier lives in the corporate office
environment by introducing different components
that have a common device - the office desk - that is used by office workers
all over the world.
The concept of this new office desk is a sit and stand desk that elevates
using electronic
motors. Such motors are controlled by a central smart desk controller of the
invention, which
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wirelessly connects to smart devices and wearables as well as to other
connected peripherals of
the invention.
References to the smart desk controller are the same as the intelligent
controller or intelligent
desk controller.
The Workspace Fitness Devices (WFDs) described here are different from a smart
gym device
because in a gym, a user goes to the device, identifies himself, and the
device keeps track of
his performance via the user's device or the connectivity via the LAN to the
remote server.
In the case of the Workspace Fitness Devices, the device moves to the user's
workspace and
the user is identified at the smart desk controller. The smart desk controller
then identifies the
user's selected Workspace Fitness Device by identifying the device itself. It
is possible for the
device not to communicate to the remote server by itself, ,only via the smart
desk controller or
the user's smart device (smartphone, smartwatch).
Since the desk where the smart desk controller is installed may not be the
same desk for the
same person every day, the smart desk controller needs to identify the user in
order to tie up
that individual's performance when using the WFDs.
FIGS. 1 to 3 describe the first part of the invention, a Smart Desk Controller
that embeds in a
desktop with an optional built-in AC/DC distribution hub. Most commonly used
in a
height-adjustable desk, the controller of the invention replaces the common
keyboard or
controller that operates the height adjustment motors in the height-adjustable
desk. The Smart
Desk Controller apparatus embeds or installs inside the desktop itself, the
Smart Desk
Controller is not exposed on the top of the desktop. In a different embodiment
of the invention,
the Smart Desk Controller may be exposed on the outside or the sides of the
desktop.
FIG. 1 shows the Smart Desk Controller of the invention, it uses an integrated
distribution hub
that allows for remote control of the distribution of the energy of the
foreign devices that are
connected to the desk, such foreign devices can be described as monitors,
computers, lamps,
or cell phone chargers. By concentrating all of the AC and DC connections on
the underside of
a height-adjustable tabletop or desktop it minimizes and organizes the amount
of cables that
need to pass underneath the tabletop by providing an all-in-one intelligent
Sit-and-Stand Desk
controller, or Smart Desk Controller, that has the following features:
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A way to identify the user, by using a QR code, an NFC tag, a radio proximity
sensor such as a
Bluetooth or similar connection. The Smart Desk Controller of the invention
that also has 6
power management distribution, including input and output ports for AC and DC
strategically
placed to better fit in a tabletop and to provide easy access for the user to
such power. A
working switchable light to illuminate the desk drawer immediately below where
the intelligent
desk controller is located. A way to communicate with other devices through a
wired or wireless
network in order to connect to the internet and through RF to communicate with
other Smart
Desk Controllers, IOT devices or Workspace Fitness Devices such as an
intelligent desk chair,
a stand, or a smart under-the-desk bike, as well to other Workspace Fitness
Devices such as a
smart-stepper, a smart-yoga-ball or a smart-balance-board.
The NFC or Near Field Communication is a radio communication protocol in
which, on one end,
a device has an NFC tag and a second device has an NFC reader. The NFC tag
could be
passive or active. Passive NFC tags can take the form of keyless cards that
are used to open
offices - which only require someone to tap. The energy to power the
electronics in the NFC tag
comes from the electromagnetic field generated by the NFC reader. An Active
NFC tag, is for
= example, one generated by a device such as a cellphone, which can
generate a string of RF
signals to emulate an NFC tag with an ID number on command.
Bluetooth is another protocol used by two devices with RX/TX capabilities that
use a frequency,
low power radio signal to communicate two or more devices (pair) which
transmit data between
= both devices.
Identification by QR code is a process under which, the Smart Desk Controller
has a physical
visible QR code printed on the Smart Desk Controller itself or placed in the
Smart Sit-and-Stand
Desk where the Smart Desk Controller is installed. By using a specific
software in a smart
gadget such as a tablet or cellphone, a user can open the app in the cell
phone, open the
= camera, and take a photo of the QR code. The QR code may contain
information pertaining to a
website to open, a URL to follow or a serial number to be encoded, which, in
combination with a
database - such as the one that runs on the remote server for the workspace
Fitness database -
correlates the information regarding the user name, or owner of the cellphone
and the
registered user in the database against the serial number of the Smart Sit-and-
Stand Desk
related to the serial number encoded on the QR code.
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Other means of _identification include the use of a printed serial number or
code, under which,
the user can input that information into the cell phone app and request the
Smart Desk
Controller to identify him/her as the user of that particular Smart Sit-and-
Stand Desk.
The Smart Desk Controller of the invention also features proximity sensors
that detect the
presence of a person or objects such as a Workspace Fitness Device.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart Desk Controller has a
built in keypad on
the side of the tabletop with a CPU that controls all of the e-features. The
Smart Desk Controller
can read NFC tags or information coming from NFC tag generators such as
smartphones.
FIG. 1 shows the front view of a Smart Desk Controller (100) that includes one
or more AC
outlets (110A, 110B), one or more USB connectors (105A, 105B), a keyboard to
control the
required height of the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk, the keyboard consisting for
example of
buttons to position the desk down (111) or up (112), one or more memory
buttons (113, 114,
115, 116) where a user can record a position the user wants and manually
override the
requested heights set by using the smart gadget to set the height of the
standup desk. A QR
code (121) and an NFC and RFID reader (120) both used for identification of
the user of the
Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk. In a different embodiment of the invention, the
Smart Desk
Controller rescinds the use of a power distribution hub and acts as all the
other features of a
Smart Desk Controller.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the keyboard or buttons could
be a detached
external keyboard. One familiar with the art can appreciate that the keyboard
can be one from
the group of a capacitive keyboard.
A case scenario will be explained to demonstrate one of the uses of the
invention. This example
does not limit the proposed uses of the invention. A user comes in to a desk,
it can be his
assigned desk or an unassigned desk, the user taps his/her phone to the Smart
Desk
Controller, it identifies him/her by reading the NFC tag and communication
thru the network to
the remote server, confirming in the database the name and preference settings
for the Smart
Sit and Stand Desk. Such preferences may include (for example) the desired
times for different
desired positions. For example, at 10am, the user wants the Smart Sit-and-
Stand Desk to be in
the stand position for 1 hour and then automatically come back down after the
specified
timeframe.
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FIG. 2 shows a back-view of the Smart Desk Controller, which includes one or
more AC outlets
(110C, 110D, 110E), one or more USB connectors (105C, 105D), a DC power in
connector (not
shown), an AC power in connector (202), a wireless LAN connector (200) a
universal connector
(201) and an external antenna connector (210) where one can install an
optional external
antenna (not shown).
FIG. 3 is a bottom view of the Smart Desk Controller
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the bottom part can be exposed
as part of the Smart
Desk Controller into the Desktop embedding process, which is supported by the
top of the
controller attached to the bottom of the desktop. The Smart Desk Controller
(100) bottom that
includes one or more AC outlets (110F, 110G), one or more USB ports (105 E) a
sensor or light
aperture (301) and a remote-controlled locking mechanism.
FIGS. Ito 5 describe one form of the invention, the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk,
which comprises
of a desktop that sits on at least two telescopic, or height adjustable legs
with a motor that
drives the legs up and down and a Smart Desk Controller with or without a
power distribution
hub. In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk
has integrated
controls with IOT (Internet of Things) capabilities.
FIGS. 1 to 5 also describe another form of the invention while using an
ergonomic desktop,
which features a lightweight honeycomb tabletop that rests on top of the
electric driven legs.
The tabletop has an embedded or integrated Smart Desk Controller with buttons
on the side of
the tabletop. In a different embodiment of the invention, the buttons are part
of an ,external
keyboard that is facing out on the side of the desktop. In a different
embodiment of the
invention, the keyboard is a capacitive keyboard that can be concealed inside
the tabletop itself.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the embedded Smart Desk Controller
is installed in
the ergonomic tabletop in such a way that the built-in buttons or keyboard are
in the side of the
Smart Desk Controller that is facing out by the side or the top of the
desktop.
The ergonomic desktop bottom has embedded open trails that can carry the
electrical and data
cables that run internally and exit through one of the legs or through their
designated entry and
exit areas. In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart Desk
Controller that has built-in
AC outlets with digital wattage meters that run locally and can act as IOT
devices to connect to
a remote server or device, together with a power management software app a
user can retrieve
power use information or control the delivery of power thru those outlets. In
a different
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embodiment of the invention, the controller also has a built in DC converter
with a USB
connector for powering smart devices.
The Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk of the invention can be used in the office,
cubicle, or the home
office.
The Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk of the invention has an ergonomic tabletop design
that optimizes
space for the 21st century tasks. When our Smart Sit-and-Stand desk is used In
the stand or sit
position, the optimal height for tabletop is co-related to the height of a
person's elbows. In the
same correlation, the height of the eyes of the user need to be horizontal to
the top of the
monitor display. Such correlation needs to be maintained regardless if the
Smart Sit-and-Stand
Desk is in the sit or stand position, although the heights vary, as when a
person is standing up,
the height distance between the tabletop and the monitor height is different.
In a different
embodiment of the invention, the monitor elevation system is a separate
mechanical system
that match the height of the monitor display once the desk is standing and
when the desk is in
the seat position adjusts the monitor height to the preset height.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk
includes an optional
desk drawer with the following features: made from lightweight material, USB
connector or port
inside the desk drawer to provide power charging to a smart gadget device, a
USB extension
from the charging drawer in case the user wants to connect the phone to the
workstation. A
Tampering sensor that could trigger alarms in the Smart Desk Controller or
send information via
their IOT connectivity to other smart gadgets. Our Smart Sit and Stand Desk
also includes a
remotely-controlled electronic lock (can be unlocked by the phone app) and a
height sensor
attached to the bottom of the drawers to prevent accidents when lowering the
desk.
AC in and out of the leg's base to create a chain of connections when using
the desk in open
spaces such as school classrooms or large open work areas. In a different
embodiment of the
invention, the drawers can only open if the smart device is present, detected
by the Smart Desk
Controller, or if the user overrides them via a connection on a website. It
also has a built in
presence sensor that senses when someone is near or seated at the desk, or
while using the
desk if a user is using a Workspace Fitness Device such as an under-the-desk
bike (as an
example). In a different embodiment of the invention, the first top drawer is
a slim one for the
smart gadget.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the height-adjusting crank and
axles of the Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk are completely covered to avoid malfunction by tampering or
dust.
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FIGS. 4 and 5 describe another component of the invention - the Workspace
Fitness Devices.
=
These devices are modifications of conventional fitness devices such as an
under-the-desk
bike, a yoga ball, or a stepper (to name a few), that have some electronics
that we identify as a
Workspace Fitness Device controller. In some parts of this document, we refer
to the
Workspace Fitness Device as such or as an 10T-FD device (Internet of Things
Fitness Device).
the invention is a Is a network of interconnected Workspace Fitness Devices
(WFD) that
connect to other WFDs or to the Smart Desk Controller (SDC).
The SDC controls the main connectivity of the activities to the remote server
and database
(cloud or a similar system). The SDC reads the user's ID and pairs it with the
interconnected
Workspace Fitness Devices connected to the Sit-and-Stand Desk where the SDC is
located or
to another device within the same network of interconnected Workspace Fitness
Devices.
The typical recommendation for a Sit-and-Stand Desk user is to use the stand
function for at
least one hour a day.
In one embodiment of the invention, one characteristic of the invention is
that the WFD itself,
does not identify the user, but the WFD is part of a paired network of devices
connected to a
user or individual. In essence, a user has a Sit-and-Stand Desk with an
intelligent controller
such as the Smart Desk Controller described above, and a series of peripheral
devices such as
an intelligent chair, an intelligent board for balance, a stationary under-the-
desk bike, and an
intelligent stepper, which we also identify as Workspace Fitness Devices.
A Smart Desk Controller that is installed in a dedicated space within the
tabletop. In a different
embodiment of the invention, the Smart Desk Controller is installed to the
bottom or top of a
tabletop.
A Smart Desk Controller that also functions as a hub for energy (AC and DC
power)
A Smart Desk Controller that has IOT capabilities (LAN. Wi-Fi and NFC)
The Smart Desk Controller that has sensors to detect the presence of nearby
Workspace
Fitness Devices. Those sensors are one or a combination from the group of
proximity sensors,
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electromagnetic sensors, RF communication between the Smart Desc Controller
and the
Workspace Fitness Device, or a triangulation of remote sensing by using the
user's smart
gadgets or smartwatches as bridges to determine by time and distance there's a
close
presence.
One familiar with the art will understand that a user cannot use more than one
workspace
fitness device at a time. For example, he/she can use the chair while the desk
is in the sitting
position, but if he/she positions the desk to the standing position, he/she
can use any of the
peripheral WFDs. Because the Smart Desk Controller has a built-in Workspace
Fitness Device
proximity sensor, by the mere fact that the WFD is close to the desk, that WFD
is identified as
being used by the user of that desk. There is no need for the user to identify
each individual
device as its own. This is practical even when there are offices sharing
multiple WFDs. For
example, an office can have 100 Smart Sit-and-Stand Desks but they may only
need 20 Smart
Under-the-desk Bikes, and/or 20 Smart Balance-Boards.
FIG. 6 shows how the Workspace Fitness Device has a built-in controller that
is
battery-powered. In a different embodiment of the invention, the WFD can also
harvest power
from the WFD itself by capturing user-generated energy while the user operates
the WFD (i.e. a
user pedals a Smart Under-the-desk Bike with a power harvesting mechanism).
The power
harvested is then used to power the WFD controller or Workspace Fitness
Controller.
A WFD can take a variety of shapes and sizes, from a Smart under-the-desk bike
- a type of
stationary bike specifically designed to be low profile and fit under a Sit-
and-Stand Desk - to a
much simpler stepper.
The Smart under-the-desk bike features an adjustable tension resistance to
select the level of
power needed to be applied by the user in order to turn the cranks/pedals.
Whereas the WFD
stepper has an adjustable sensor to adjust the power the user, needs to apply
in order to move
one foot down.
The aforementioned products are just a few examples and it should be noted
that the
embodiment of a WFD is not limited to those previously mentioned.
Each WFD has a controller, such controller can have a CPU or a system-on-card
type device
that can have one or more of the following methods of communication:
Bluetooth, NFC, RFID,
Wi-Fi, or any other radio frequency-emitting device that communicates either
directly to the
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Smart Desk Controller or directly through to a remote server.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the WFD controller, or Workspace
Fitness Controller,
also has a GPS that can work under the wi-fl network, cell LAN network, or by
satellite
triangulation. One of the purposes for the GPS is to be able to locate the WFD
inside a specific
geographic area as described in the software app description in this document.
The controller can send signals to the remote server in order to notify the
server's database if
the WFD is in use, who the user is, the time the device has been in use, if
the device is reserved
for a specific time of the day, and what the WFD's health status is, among
other data described
throughout this document.
The controller also connects to the Smart Desk Controller, which is able to
recognize who is
using that desk, and because of the proximity of the WFD to the smart desk,
the Smart Desk
Controller could determine that the same user of the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk
where the Smart
Desk Controller is installed, is the same person who is using the WFD.
The WFD has sensors ,and transmitters such as proximity sensors and
geolocation ping
transmitters that help locate the WFD in a specific geographic area.
A Smart desk controller (600) connects (698) to a remote server (690) which
has a database
(691) and runs its own software (692 not shown). The Smart Desk Controller
also connects
(601) to a Workspace Fitness Device (650) or WFD. The WFD can optionally
directly connect
(699) to the same remote Server (690).
The Smart Desk Controller (600) is installed in the tabletop of the desk (not
shown), it consists
of a cabinet with a Motherboard (610) which has a memory (611), a CPU (612),
and wi-fl / LAN
connectivity (613) to connect to other devices such as other Smart Desk
Controllers (600),
Workspace Fitness Devices (650), or connection (698) with cloud services such
as a remote
server (690) with a database (691), bluetooth, Radio Frequency, Near Field
Connection (NFC),
RFID and other radio connectivity options (614), and Sensors (615) such as
proximity sensors
(616) for detecting a nearby Workspace Fitness Device (650). One familiar with
the art will
notice that there could be other types of sensors not described here and there
could be other
components necessary for the functioning of the Smart Desk Controller such as
batteries,
,
harnesses, and other such components not mentioned in this description. The
smart Desk
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
controller (600) also has a power distribution system (618) with adaptors, the
distribution system
consists of AC plugs (622) and DC USB connectors (620) located in different
parts of the Smart
Desk Controller (600) to provide power to other devices such as cell phones,
computers, and
monitors, among others. It also has AC inputs (621) from the power coming from
the leg's
cables (not shown).
The workspace fitness device (650) is one from the group consisting of an
under-the-desk
bicycle, steppers, twisters, boards, yoga balls and other similar devices used
for fitness while
using the regular desk or table, a Sit-and-Stand Desk, or other similar desks.
The workspace fitness device (650) has a controller (660) that connects to the
equipment
adjustments (670) which can include the force, weight, or torque adjustments
(671) (to name a
few). Such adjustments affect the overall performance of the user and should
be considered for
the total fitness monitoring computed within the remote server (690). The
Workspace fitness
device's controller (660) consist of a Motherboard (661 with a memory (662),
CPU (663) and
connectivity devices (656) such as the bluetooth (666), RFID and NFC (666),
sensors (667)
including proximity and other sensors as well as a LAN or Wi-Fi connection
(668). Such
connections are used to connect (601) with the Smart Desk Controller, or to
connect (699) with
the remote server (690). One familiar with the art, understands that this is a
redundant
connection between the Workspace Fitness Device (WFD), the Smart Desk
Controller, the
smart gadget, and the remote server. As such, the connectivity between each
one of those
devices can be accomplished by using the connected device as a bridge. For
example, the
WFD can be connected to the Smart Desk Controller, but not to the internet
noro the remote
server or smart gadget.ut because the WFD is connected to the Smart Desk
Controller, the
Smart Desk Controller acts as a bridge to patch the communication needed
between the WFD
and the smart gadget. For example, based on the scenario just explained, a
user can control the
torque of the WFD using his/her smart gadget even if the WFD is not connected
to the Internet
but is connected to the Smart Desk Controller.
The smart gadget is one from the group consisting of a cell phone, tablet,
smartwatch, pc,
laptop, or similar devices.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart Desk Controller has an
HDMI-out port (not
shown in the FIGS.) that connects to the secondary port of the user's monitor
that is present at
the Sit-and-Stand Desk.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
When the user is logged into the SDC, the HDMI port shuts down any signal sent
through the
HDMI port, hence, giving priority to the desktop or laptop computer's HDMI
display information
to display to the user's monitor.
When the user is not logged in and is not using the monitor on top of the Sit-
and-Stand Desk,
the SDC can send information through the HDMI port to display information such
as reservation
information from the remote management system as explained in Pat13. That
information can
only be displayed for determined periods of time at specific hours, that way
saving energy from
the monitor display.
Alternatively, in a different embodiment of the invention, the keyboard at the
SDC can wake up
the display information sent to the monitor. In this case, if a user wants to
see information
related to the SDC, the SDC can display that information to the monitor as
requested. This is
useful if someone wants to know if the Sit-and-Stand Desk is reserved as
explained in Pat13,
but may want to check until what time the reservation is valid.
FIG. 4 shows how a Smart Desk Controller (400) and a Workspace Fitness Device
communicate. A user (not shown) uses the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk (not shown)
where the
Smart Desk Controller (400) is installed. With the use of the proximity
sensor, the NFC reader or
bluetooth connectivity, the Smart Desk Controller (400) identifies the
presence of a Workspace
Fitness Device (402). The controller of the WFD (not shown) communicates with
the Smart
Desk Controller (400) and transmits all of the collected data from the user's
performance while
using the WFD.
In a different embodiment of the invention, a Smart Desk Controller (400) that
detects or
communicates in proximity to a smartwatch (401) or smart gadget such as a
tablet or
smartphone that the user is wearing or storing in his pocket (as an example).
The smartwatch
(401) is also in close proximity to a WFD (402). The SDC (400) might not
sense, see or
communicate directly with the WFD (402), but the smartwatch (401) can be the
link between the
SDC (400) and the WFD (402) in case no direct connection between the SDC and
the WFD is
possible. This is an option to determine if a WFD is located within the
workspace of the user.
One familiar with the art will understand that the determination of the use
can be completed by
having at least a couple of the devices connecting to a remote server or
connecting with each
other and determining the use of the SDC and the WFD based on time, distance,
or physical
proximity to the WFD.
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
FIG. 5 shows a flowchart in accordance with one or more embodiments of the
invention. While
the various steps in these flowcharts, part of this abplication, are presented
and described
sequentially, one of ordinary skill will appreciate that some, or all of the
steps presented may be
executed in no particular order, may be combined or omitted, and some, or all
of the steps may
be executed in parallel. Furthermore, the steps may be performed actively or
passively.
FIG. 5 shows a flowchart describing the communication between a Smart Sit and
Stand Desk
with an integrated Smart Desk Controller and a Workspace Fitness Device in
accordance with
one or more embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5 shows a Smart Desk Controller
(500) that
includes a Motherboard (510) with a memory (511), CPU (51), LAN and Wi-Fi card
(513), a
radio communication mechanism with Bluetooth, Radio Frequency, NFC and/or RFID
(514) and
proximity and other sensors (515, 516, 517), and has an optional display (523)
that is optionally
connected to a power distributor or adaptor (518) with an AC to DC converter
(519) that
provides DC power to foreign devices via a USB connector (520) and has AC
input (51) and AC
output plugs (522). That Smart Desk Controller (500) connects (598) via a
network or the
internet to a remote server (590) that also connects to a database (591). Such
a database
contains the names or personal identifications of the users and keeps track of
their performance
data,preference settings, and other relevant information such as their
prefered devices, average
times of use per devices, etc. The information in the database can be password-
protected and
access to the data can be limited by the user or groups of users. The remote
server is also open
for connections (507) to smart gadgets (505), which can access the information
contained in the
database once account access is validated. The Smart Gadget can communicate
directly to the
Smart Desk Controller (500) using one of two methods of connection, either by
connecting via
the internet relay (507) using the server (590) as a bridge or a direct
communication (506) with
the Smart Desk Controller (500) using either bluetooth or other Radio
Frequency (RF) means.
The Smart Desk Controller (500) may communicate directly to the Workspace
Fitness Device
(550) using either a local connection (501) such as NFC, Bluetooth, or other
RF means of
communication, as well as using the remote server as a relay or bridge, or by
simultaneously
accessing the information at the remote server database (591).
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the communication between the
Smart Desk
Controller and the WFD can be opened or started using one method, and once the
communication is open, switch to other methods. For example, using an NFC
reader to identify
the device, and once the device is identified, switch to Bluetooth
communication to carry all of
the data transfer needed. Alternatively, one may use the NFC as a means of
opening the
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
communication, but once identification is performed, use the joint connection
to the Remote
server to communicate between both devices.
One familiar with the art will also appreciate that in order for the WFD (550)
to access data from
the remote server database (591) a direct connection from the WFD and the
database via the
Internet may not be required, as the Smart Desk Controller (500) can be used
as a bridge or
relay to connect the WFD (550) to the Remote server (590) and then to the
database (591).
Viceversa, the Smart Desk Controller can communicate with the Remote server
and the
database without the need of an Internet connection if a connection with the
WFD is established
and the connection between the WFD and the database is active in any other
way.
FIG. 6 is a continuation of FIG. 5 from the point of view of the Workspace
Fitness Device.
Throughout this application, we have been talking about how the Smart Desk
Controller
communicates with the Remote Server and Database and how external devices such
as smart
gadgets, for example: smartphones, laptops, or tablets, can also connect to
the remote server
and access the data stored in the database This part of the invention
corresponds to a software
app. Data captured by the Smart Desk Controller and shared directly to other
devices or a
remote server can be viewed and controlled in a software app. Features of this
app include: the
total amount of time the desk is in the standing position, time in the sitting
position, and time of
use (based on picks from the wattage use and sensors in the tabletop) and
positions (up,
down). In a different embodiment of the invention, the data collection or data
sharing can
optionally be disabled by the administrator. The software administrator can be
the user of the
device, the employee, the employer or the administrator of the office facility
(to name a few).
The data collected from the Smart Desk Controller or the remote server can be
shared with
fitness tracking devices such as fitbits or smartwatches. Secondary devices
can be paired with
the Smart Desk Controller. Such secondary devices include, but are not limited
to:
smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, fitness bands, computers or laptops (to
name a few).
the invention also includes a software application and a remote cloud
environment service.
Such services, data, and features are available when the Smart Desk Controller
connects to a
= secondary wired or wireless device, the secondary device can be one from
the group of a
laptop, PC, smartphone, tablet or a remotely connected server (Remote Server)
that can share
data via an Internet connection. The software app features includes the
capability to remotely
control the height of the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk from the smartphone app,
run statistics on
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
how long the person sits or stands, or track position changes made by the
user, all of which are
monitored by the Smart Desk Controller.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the software runs sit and stand
challenges among
colleagues and other sit and stand device users,it monitors and displays the
amount of wattage
used by the devices connected to the desk, it can send alerts if intruders
open the desk
drawers,and it has display alerts when controlling the desk, such as "heads up
to see if there
aren't any objects blocking the desk when coming down".
In a different embodiment of the invention, the software application features
one-touch elevation
for when a user wants to set the height of the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk to a
predetermined
height with the single touch of a button from a remote secondary device.
Other features include sit-stand tracking - to keep track of the time of the
day and a minute
count of the minutes spent at different positions, a sit-stand reminder that
is audible, visible and
automatic, and a "do not disturb" light that is displayed on the user's
smartphone, tablet, or
similar device with a monitor light, code, or words to allow other people in
the same office space
that the user of that desk doesn't want to be disturbed.
In a different embodiment of the invention, Workspace Fitness Devices and
accessories include
a Smart Mat that can sense or measure the presence of a user. The Smart Mat
may also
capture the energy produced by the user and connects to the Smart Desk
Controller by wired or
wireless connection to provide relevant statistics and data to users.
All peripherals send data to the app, thus, that data can be. collected by
other platforms/apps
such as a fitbit for complete overall input from the user.
FIG. 7 shows a side view of an under-the-desk bike (700) that is under a desk
(720). In this
example, the under-the-desk bike is a WFD; however, one familiar with the art
will know that
there are other WFD devices, and all of them share very similar
characteristics. Some examples
include (but are not limited to) a stand, a seat (703), a backrest (702), an
adjusting knob (704),
and in the case of a bike: a set of cranks (701), a base, or rollers (705A and
705B and a
controller (710) with or without a display. The controller that reads the data
from the cranks and
adjusts the torque of the cranks to be either lighter or harder, allowing the
user to exercise at
varying intensities.
FIG. 8A and 8B show a side perspective view of a stepper (800) that acts as
WFD. The stepper
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
consists of a controller (710) and a pair of pneumatic-driven steps (801A,
801B). Moreover, the
controller is connected to the pneumatic adjustment to increase or decrease
the pressure of the
steps. FIG. 8B shows a user (810) using the stepper (800) WFD.
All of the data from the under-the-desk bike and stepper is sent to the remote
management
server either via a direct connection through a LAN or an indirect connection
via the Smart Desk
Controller at the user's desk. Another method for direct transmission to the
remote management
server is via the user's smart devices. Suitable devices include smartwatches,
tablets, or
smartphone devices that are able to connect to the WFD.
Power is generated/harvested through the turning/pedaling of the cranks (in
the case of an
under-the-desk bike) or through the up and down movement of pneumatic steps
(in the case of
a stepper). The captured energy is then transmitted to the power management
source which
can send it directly to the device's batteries or to power any of the WFD's
components, such as
the controller or motors.
Unlike devices that can be found at the gym, the Workspace Fitness Device is a
portable device
(WFD) that the user moves close to the workstation or area where the user will
use it. Unlike in
a gym, where the user goes to the machine - the machine goes to the user.
The WFD logs the user by having the user tap into the SDC, not the device.
Because the WFD
is within the geographic space or within reach of sensors of the SDC, the WFD
is identified as
being at that particular workspace. Unlike at a gym with IOT devices, where
the user taps into
the fitness device, in the invention, the user taps into the SDC, then, the
SDC connects to the
WFD. In a different embodiment of the invention, the user may tap directly to
the WFD and the
WFD may send information to the server via a direct connection between the WFD
and the
SDC, the WFD via LAN with the remote server, the WFD to the smart gadget of
the user which
then connects directly to the remote server, or the smart gadget to the SDC.
The Ul to locate the WFD could be in the smartwatch, the smart gadget, PC,
Laptop, or web
portal. The Ul has several functions: turn off an audible alarm or alarm
alert, or locate via GPS,
as some examples.
The WFD has the capability to have a GPS and an audible alarm as a means for
location
tracking. The smartwatch can request the smart desk controller to turn off an
audible alert at the
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
WFD when, for example, the user needs to locate the WFD that he/she has
reserved or he/she
wants to use when someone (or no one) is using it within a building floor or
an office space.
With the GPS, the user may track the WFD he wants to use with an audible
alert; thereby,
making it easier for the user to locate the device.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the WFD can lock itself to prevent
its use when a
user or a system-wide alert is sent to the WFD. Reasons to lock the device may
include (but are
not limited to) a timer or the fact that a different user from the one who is
using it in that moment
has it reserved for that period of time. By locking the device, it prevents
unauthorized use and
encourages people to reserve the WFD in the web-portal or management system
when
available.
When a user who has a WFD reserved is looking for it, the audible alert and
the locking of the
WFD functionality may be triggered.
The locking of the WFD can be - in the case of the under-the-desk bike - to
lock the cranks or
tighten them as high as possible so it is uncomfortable or impossible for the
user to pedal the
bike. For the stepper, the locking mechanism can also be to tighten the
adjustment so the
stepper is no longer operational. In the case of the Yoga Ball, there might
not be a locking
mechanism, but the controller could also vibrate in such a way that the yoga
ball might be
uncomfortable for the user to sit on.
The WFD device also has functionality to prevent unauthorized use of the
device in such a way
that when, for example, a child starts using the WFD in an unintended manner
(such as
pedaling excessively rapidly) the WFD device can detect the WFD is being used
in an
unintended manner and it can either lock itself, make it very hard, or turn on
the audible alarm to
prevent unauthorized use. A user can override this feature in case he/she
wants to use it for
higher performance. For example, the WFDs are meant to be used for workspace
fitness, not as
gym equipment. In this case, the WFDs are meant for low performance - i.e. low
pace fitness. In
a different embodiment of the invention a WFD could be a gym equipment
alternative.
When the WFD device has mechanical parts that cannot be adjusted automatically
from the
smart gadget controlling it or when the WFD device can sense the user's
preference while in
motion, that information is also stored and shared to the paired smart gadget
devices via means
of the remote management database system. That way, when a user is using a
WFD, the smart
gadget can display the user's preferences at that particular WFD. For example,
a user uses the
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
under-the-desk bike which has a manual seat height adjustment, thus, when the
user adjusts
the seat to sit at 12", the under-the-desk bike has a sensor that knows the
seat is set at a height
of 12". Furthermore, if the user decides to use the same model of under-the-
desk bike on a
different day and/or it is not exactly the same WFD he/she was using before,
the display on
his/her smart device will display the seat height setting; which, in this
case, will remind the user
that his/her preferred or last setting was at 12" for the seat height. In a
different embodiment of
the invention, when a sensor for the mechanical adjustment is not present, the
system may
request the user to input or take a photo of the height adjustment using
his/her smart device.
That way, the remote management database system can keep track of it.
The WFD also has a way to automatically set the desired settings adjustments
for that particular
user when he/she is using that WFD. For example, a user will start using a WFD
(i.e. an
under-the-desk bike) and it will be paired or sensed by the smart desk
controller or the login
information from the smart device and the WFD will identify the user. Then,
the WFD - in this
case, the under the desk bike - will be set to the required torque and
performance requirements
as set by the user.
In all cases, those commands can be overwritten by the user or an
administrator.
FIG. 9 shows a flowchart of the operation of the Smart Desk Controller (SDC)
acting in the
presence of a Workspace Fitness Device (WFD). One familiar with the art will
appreciate that
any reference to the Smart Desk Controller should imply that the Smart Desk
Controller is
installed or embedded within the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk. Step 900 describes
when a SDC
detects the presence of a WFD. In a normal office work day, a user may use the
Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk in the sitting position for a certain amount of time and in
the standing
position for the remainder The positions and activities on the Smart Sit-and-
Stand Desk could
vary depending on the type of position or use the user wants. Part of the
experience of using
our solution is to use peripherals such as the Workspace Fitness Devices
(WFD), including the
Smart under-the-desk bike, which, in some cases could be stored in a different
area than the
workstation, as some office spaces may be space-limited, while others may
allow the user to
share the use of WFDs with office colleagues, given that the use of the WFD
(in most cases) is
for just a small percentage of the time a user spends sitting behind the desk.
Step 902 makes a
determination if a user has signed-in to the SDC or WFD. A user can sign-in to
a SDC or to a
WFD as well, the user does not need to be signed-in on both devices at the
same time, as
described in this flowchart. If the user is not signed-in on either device,
then there is nothing
else to do. If a user is signed-in on at least one of the devices, then he/she
may proceed to step
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
903 where the SDC and the WFD share the user's preset information. One
familiar with the art
will appreciate that either device could be the one the user is signed-in to.
This makes that
device "device #1", whereas the device where the user is not signed-in to is
known as "device
#2". Device #1 is responsible for transmitting the user's preset information
via the transfer
method that was previously described in this document. Step 904 describes that
the WFD then
applies the adjustments to the presets in that device. Such presets could be
the tension, the
height, or any other variable that can be electronically manipulated while
seated at the WFD
remotely.
FIGS. 9 through 11 show the relationship between Workspace Fitness Devices,
Smart Desk
Controllers, cloud services, and Software. More specifically, an iOS and
Android application that
allows the user to setup his/her desk based on the information provided
earlier in this document.
The software or mobile application captures the input of the person's height,
then, comparing it
to a table, calculates the positioning of the elements such as the seat or the
WFD, including the
=
seat, keyboard, and screen heights in relationship with the eyes of the user.
If the user operates the under the desk bike, height and weight are also
considered.
the invention also includes two other forms of measurement that are taken into
consideration
when using our Workspace Fitness Devices (WFD) - including our under-the-desk
bike, stepper,
and balance board. Our database has the required height adjustments for the
use of those
devices and our algorithm performs calculations based on each user's specific
needs.
Also includes the elbow-height range and other data based on the ergonomy of
the person.
That is done with a table made up of different variables, or a custom input
that will match it with
the closest number in our reference table. In a different embodiment of the
invention, the input is
only done in a range instead of fixed values.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the app also calculates the
distance the monitor
should be from the face, the tilt of the monitor, or at what angle it should
be positioned.
The app also recommends the postures to adopt while standing at the Sit-and-
Stand Desk.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
In a different embodiment of the invention, the app can also collect
information, such as the ID
of the user, his/her height, preferences (custom made or from patterns
registered at our remote
server's database),or the user's favorite WFD device to use (just to name a
few).
Case scenarios for Challenges description
Mirror co-workers or classroom: a master, set by profile, day, or activity, is
the one who controls
the ergonomyx devices. For example, a teacher may be the master for the
ergonomyx devices
in that classroom. When the teacher raises his/her desk up, all of the other
desks are also
raised unless the teacher is running his/her app in teacher's mode, thus,
controlling the devices.
Mirror co-workers by challenge: a challenge may be set by a leader or by
votes. Whatever
challenge idea receives the most votes is selected to be that week's corporate
challenge. The
challenge may be among co-workers on the same workplace or families within
their separate
work areas and school classes. Online tables for social media are also
available (need to have
a University researcher develop the social media app). Every day could be more
challenging,
and just like poker, a user can choose standards that are higher than the
other members in their
workspace and then wait to see if he/she gets re-challenged to choose even
higher standards.
Surprise challenge: occurs when many sign up but they don't know what is next -
the algorithm
randomly chooses for them. The Sit-and-Stand Desk can raise or lower with just
a small time
frame notice depending on the type of challenge.
Other options available from the main menu include:
Share a photo of your sit stand desk
Share your experience (blog type)
Fun facts about Sit-and-Stand Desks
Literature about the use of Sit-and-Stand Desks
The app that also manages for example:
As the app is connected to a centrally located database management remote
server and each
of the Smart Desk Controllers, Workspace Fitness Devices (WFD), smartphones,
and smart
wearables are connected to that database or connected to each other (and at
least one of them
is connected to the remote server), the database management system can be
updated
accordingly.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
The app can manage equipment reservation within a predetermined area, be that
an office
space, building floor, an entire building, or a specific geographical area not
mentioned in this list.
The way the equipment reservation works is by understanding the needs of the
user. A regular
office worker, for example, may like to stand for one hour a day on the
"stand" position of the
desk and rest in the "sit" position for the remaining 7 hours of the work-day.
In this case, the
user may want to use the under-the-desk bike for 15 minutes (for example). By
setting up those
preferences, the user may program the smartphone or wearable device to remind
themselves
that it is time to "stand" after approximately 3 hours of work. Once the alert
goes off, the
under-the-desk bike should be used. If this is the case, in most offices it is
expected to have a
ratio of 3 Workspace Fitness Devices (WFD) per every 10 desks in the office.
Those 3 devices
could vary in the form of an under-the-desk bike, stepper, and a balancing
board. The software
algorithm manages the WFD inventory and availability. All office workers
within a certain area
can reserve the available devices to be used within a specific period of time.
The Smart Desk
Controller identifies the geographical location of the last time a particular
WFD has been used
by someone in the office. By installing additional optional Smart Desk
Controllers in closet
areas, the database system could also locate not-in-use devices that are
stored in office closets,
unused office areas, or empty offices.
Challenges or contests among locally or remotely located coworkers, friends,
or family. As all of
the devices are connected to each other either via a direct or indirect
connection and they all
pass through the same remote server, users can create challenges or contests
when using any
smart-desk-controlled devices, including the Sit-and-Stand Desk and other WFD
devices such
as the under-the-desk bike, stepper, or balance board. Those challenges may
entail
recommendations regarding when the user should undergo a specific activity
based on a
predetermined set of conditions, including the desk's height, the under-the-
desk bike resistance
level, the stepper's resistance level, and the time of day.
Remotely control the settings of the Sit-and-Stand Desk or WFDs. The user can
use the app to
modify or program settings for later use, including the tension of the under-
the-desk bike or the
height of the Sit-and-Stand Desk. Program timers to change those features or
to cancel the
features.
Users can also monitor the use of individual (or multiple) WFD devices
allocated in close
proximity to them through the database. That way, supervisors can monitor the
use of the
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
devices and the popularity. In extreme cases, mothers can monitor if their
sons are doing the
required exercising or doctors can monitor if a patient is using the required
WFDs.
Our app also works as a gateway for WFDs to connect to the remote server as an
indirect
connection. As most WFDs only have bluetooth and a local Wi-Fi connection
without internet, =
the cellphone on which the app is running can work as a gateway between the
WFDs and the
remote server to upload and download information such as settings, current
user settings,
usage data, device health, monitor, etc.
The use of a WFD in a waiting room and a way to promote its use. While waiting
for his/her
appointment, a person could use the WFD to keep active. Since this "guest" is
not a regular
user of the device, as described in this document, the "guest still does
his/her workout and
he/she might already be subscribed to a different fitness band / health
monitoring service
different from the one described above.
In this case, the user may tap, take a photo of the QR code, download our
"guest app" or simply
use the device and write a code displayed on the device.
Such code or session number is a reference to the data captured by that WFD
while that
particular user used the WFD. Once in his home, or at his smart gadget, the
user can log into
our web portal or the web portal from another company, and insert that code
into the computer
or smart gadget, the time collected at the WFD is then considered in the
overall fitness
performance of the user.
Since our platform is an open platform, other device-manufacturers can tap
into our system and
download health fitness data from any or our WFDs, users, or Smart Desk
Controllers.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart that shows how the Smart Desk Controller adjusts the
settings of the desk
based on the user identification when that user has preset preferences when
using that device -
in this case, the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk. A user preset is a setting that
the user sets. This
preset can be the desired height of the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk, the desired
height of the
WFD, or any other adjustments such as the tension of the flywheel of the Smart
Under-the-desk
bike (amongst other examples).
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Step 1000 describes how the user uses the workspace fitness device while
working at the smart
sit and stand desk. One familiar with the art will appreciate that a user may
use a workspace
fitness device from the group of a smart under-the-desk bike, a smart stepper,
or a smart yoga
ball. When using the device, it is most likely that the user will be located
in front of the desk that
has the Smart Desk Controller installed.
Step 1001 describes how the user makes adjustments to the settings at either
the Smart Desk
Controller (desk) or the Workspace Fitness Device itself.
Once the changes are made, the smart desk controller transmits any changes in
the user
presets to the remote server, where they are stored and accessible to the user
via a web portal
or through the app, as described in step 1002.
Step 1003 describes how the next time the user logs to a Smart Desk
Controller, those new
adjustments are recalled, regardless of whether or not it is the same Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk
or Workspace Fitness Device.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart that shows how the Smart Desk Controller can make a
determination of
the presence of a Workspace Fitness Device located nearby (Step 1100). In step
1101, a
determination is requested if a user is signed-in to the Smart Desk Controller
or to the
Workspace Fitness Device. If the user is not signed-in to either device, then
the process ends
(1110). Step 1102 describes, how, if the user has signed-in to at least one of
the
aforementioned devices, then a determination has to be made to check if a user
setup preset for
that type of Workspace Fitness Device has been made. For example, if this is
the first time a
user is using a Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk (workspace fitness device), then, a
user preset for
this user does not exist for this type of device. If the user preset does not
exist, then proceed to
step 1104. Alternatively, in the case that a user preset does exist, then
proceed to step 1103.
Step 1103, adjusts the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk to match the user's preset,
then the process
ends (1111). ,
Continuing with step 1104, the smart sit and stand desk must use the default
settings based on
the height of the workspace fitness device in relation to the smart Sit-and-
Stand Desk,then, the
process ends (1111).
FIG. 12 is a flowchart that describes the process from the guest or user's
perspective. Step
1200 describes that a guest uses a public WED. Public WFD are devices that are
not linked to a
personal account but are open for many people to use that same device. WED
identify
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themselves when they are used in a workspace environment and when the devices
are paired
with Smart Desk Controllers. If in the case a guest will use the WFD without
the login credentials
and simply walks up and uses the WFD. The guest may expect to collect the
information or data
captured by the WFD for that workout. In Step 1210, at the end of the workout
the guest records
the session info. The method to record the session info is from one of the
following group: by
reading a QR code displayed on the screen of the WFD or a QR code printed on
the WFD, by
using our app in his/her phone and reading the QR code displayed or printed on
the WFD, by
recording or writing the serial number of the WFD. The WFD keeps track of the
time the workout
happened and the serial number of the WFD that did the job. The WFD (as
described in other
pages of this document) is connected to a cloud server that keeps track of the
data collected by
the WFD. Step 1220, when at home, the guest logs into a web portal or app. A
web portal from
our company or from the guest's fitness-device provider that is linked to our
database where the
record of his workout is kept. Step 1230, guest enters recorded session info.
By correlating the
recorded session info with our database, the data from that recorded session
can be retrieved
by either a screen print or a data file that can be used to integrate into the
guest's fitness
tracking device or system. Step 1240, the workout info is retrieved and can
become part of that
guest's fitness tracking data. The web portal or app either integrate that
workout into the guest's
personal daily record or provide the equivalent to manually input into other
devices.
FIG. 13 shows a chart describing the relationship between the workspace
fitness ecosystem,
the user, and the machine learning/artificial intelligence database/engine.
The user (1300) is the one signing-in or using the described devices. A user
is at a Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk (1301), which, simultaneously connects to the Remote server
(1319). If a
Smart Under-the-Desk Bike (1302) is present it is connected to the Smart Sit-
and-Stand Desk
(1301) wirelessly. At the desk, a Desktop Computer, laptop, or tablet (1305)
that has a software
installed, that software produces a session as described in FIG. 17. Any
device connected to
the remote server is enabled to create a session, which, for example, is a
window of time with a
start and finish timestamp that includes the data values collected from
different devices.
Sessions can be initiated using technologies such as NFC, Bluetooth or through
a browser
using a web-app. The Desktop Computer, laptop, or tablet (1305) also connects
to a remote
server via the internet. The Desktop Computer (1305) sends data regarding the
usage of the
keyboard, mouse, and display. One familiar with the art will appreciate that
usage data of other
types of peripherals can be sent.
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Continuing on FIG. 13 in a different embodiment of the invention, usage data
may not include
the content, as it is not as much interest to the Artificial Intelligence
Engine (Al engine) as the
use of the keyboard and mouse movements. One familiar with the art will
appreciate that, when
a tablet with a touchscreen is present, there might not be a need to have a
keyboard or mouse,
as the touchscreen serves as an input device for the tablet, and thus, the
data collected
includes the touchscreen activity on the tablet.
Continuing on FIG. 13, the Desktop Computer (1305) that is operated by the
user (1300) that
has a smartphone (1303) or any other smart gadget such as a tablet with our
software
application running. One familiar with the art will appreciate that Desktop
computer may be
synonymous of a laptop, notebook or other types of computing devices. One
familiar with the art
will also appreciate that the smartphone can also have a direct connection and
communication
= with the Smart sit-and-stand Desk or Smart under-the-desk Bike at the
same time, or that the
Smart Under-the-desk bike can connect directly to the cloud services as
described in the
paragraphs above. One familiar with the art will also appreciate that, as the
smartphone is a
personal device with the user's credentials installed on it and since the
smartphone stays ON
most of the time, it recognizes that it's being operated by the owner of the
device.
Continuing with FIG. 13, the user (1300) might use headphones (1306) that are
connected by a
wired or wireless connection to the smartphone (1303). One familiar with the
art will also
appreciate that the description of the headphones are just an example to
identify that the
smartphone is providing sound output. The meaning of the presence of a pair of
headphones
can be interchanged to anything that acts as a sound output device, including
a PA system
connected wired or wirelessly to the phone, or the smartphone's built-in
speakers or speaker
box, which is connected by a wired or wireless connection to the smartphone.
The user (1300) may also wear a fitness tracking device (1304) such as a
fitness band or
smartwatch that collects fitness data such as movement and heart beats or
Beats Per Minute
(BPM) information. The fitness tracker (1304) may also be connected to the
internet and the
remote server (1319). The fitness tracker may have a built-in optical heart
rate monitor which is
a personal monitoring device that allows one to measure one's heart rate in
real time or record
the heart rate for later study. An optical heart rate monitor is largely used
by performers of
various types of physical exercise.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that any of the smart devices such
as the Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk (1301), the Smart Under-the-Desk Bike (1302), the
smartphone (1303), the
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
fitness tracking device (1304), and the Desktop Computer, laptop, or tablet
(1305) may connect
directly to the remote server,via a connection to the internet, or indirectly
to the connection
acquired by a local connection between one of these devices and a device that
is connected to
= the internet or to the remote server. For example, the Smart Under-the-
Desk Bike (1302), which
may not have a connection to the internet, but, since it is connected to the
Smart Sit-and-Stand
Desk (1301), it can use the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk (1301) as a bridge (1320)
to connect to
the remote server (1319).
The remote server is connected to the Machine learning/Artificial Intelligence
Database (1333).
The user might be using other devices (1310) that could also connect to the
ecosystem and
= feed data to the Machine learning/Artificial Intelligence Database
(1333). Other devices may
include devices that are smart or not. Smart devices are devices that connect
to the remote
server (1319) and from there, are able to send data to the workspace Fitness
ecosystem.
Non-smart devices are devices that may not connect to the remote server and
their use must be
manually reported (via the smartphone app or other mediums) to the remote
server so the
Artificial Intelligence Engine (Al engine) takes this input into
consideration. One familiar with the
art will appreciate that in this list, the other smart devices can be one from
the group of a Smart
Chair, a Smart Stepper, a Smart Treadmill, or a connected mat, to name a few.
Non smart
devices can be for example, but not limited to devices from the group of
reflexology foot paths
or acupressure boards, which are an alternative medicine tool that gives a
user the benefits of
acupressure. Most of these mats are made from plastic, cotton, or other
materials with plastic
acupuncture points that stimulate specific areas of the body to bring pain
relief or help with other
issues. The density of these acupressure points is very high, so many people
refer to them as
"bed of nails" mats.
the invention is a machine learning / Artificial Intelligence engine that is
used in combination with
Workspace Fitness Devices such as the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk and/or the
Smart
Under-the-Desk Bike. the invention analyses the collected data from a
workspace fitness
environment and determines the best type of sensory input that can influence
the activity
performance of that particular user when operating a workspace Fitness Device.
= Desk user's position and activity patterns while at the office can give
some indication regarding
the user's ergonomic deficiencies or needs. For example, Doctors recommend
that patients with
= back pain use a sit and stand desk. But doctors don't know what the best
time of day or amount
of time for that patient to use it is. The best time for that patient to use
the sit and stand desk in
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
a standing position might be right after lunch time in order to increase the
blood pressure and
reduce obesity. Other users may have the same needs, but their recommended
times of the day
and amount of time to work standing may vary. To make this more complex, a
user could stand
barefeet - or with shoes - in a carpet, hard-floor, or in an anti-fatigue mat.
The single fact that we
have a user that has been working all his life while seated and suddenly we
ask him to work
standing for X amount of time everyday has an influence in his health and work
productivity.
Some researchers have studied such influences on the personal health and work
productivity of
the users and their conclusion is that using sit and stand desks is generally
better for users'
personal health and overall productivity within the workplace. The need to
find the optimal
amount of time and the best times to work while sitting, standing, and moving
is of great
importance. Large corporations even employ ergonomic experts who evaluate, in
a person by
person basis, their employees' particular ergonomic needs. Those consultants,
most of the time
recommend what type of furniture to buy - most commonly, ergonomic chairs and
sit and stand
desks - and, as if they were a personal fitness coach at a gym, they'd give
employees a
schedule of activities to do while working - In this case, when to sit, stand,
or move. Most of the
time, this information comes in non-personalized charts that are handed to the
employees.
A Workspace Fitness experience doesn't necessarily only include a sit and
stand desk,there are
plenty of other fitness devices that can be used while working behind a sit
and stand desk,
including the under the desk bike, steppers, ellipticals, treadmills, or yoga
balls to name a few.
Once we put those components into play, we have other sensorial factors such
as ambiance
which may include: noise, music, or scents.
The need to automate the process to evaluate a person's needs and optimal
activity schedule
while working is constant and growing.
Sensorial input includes Music, Kinetic, Audible, and scent-therapy. In the
case of music, it
selects the type of music or specific song based on the music's properties,
including factors
such as (including but not limited to) rhythm and tempo.
FIG. 14 shows a diagram with the data collected from the devices. One familiar
with the art will
appreciate that the information reflected here is the description of some of
the items that are the
most interest for the Machine learning/Artificial Intelligence Database
(1333). The workspace
fitness device session data (1400) includes (but is not limited to): the User
ID, the Revolutions
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
per Minute (RPMs) and the intensity set at the Workspace Fitness Device. For
example, if the
Workspace Fitness Device is a Smart Under-the-Desk Bike, then, the user may
have an
intensity level from 0 to 10, the intensity level on a Smart sit-and-stand
desk is the resistance
level or tension on the flywheel that makes the pedaling softer or harder for
the user.
The fitness tracking device session data (1410) is the one that is collected
from the fitness
tracking device (1304 fig 13), which includes: Movement data and beats per
minute (BPM) or
Heart rate reading, which, is the speed of the heartbeat measured by the
number of
contractions (beats) of the heart per minute (BPM). The heart rate can vary
according to the
body's physical needs, including the need to absorb oxygen and excrete carbon
dioxide. It is
usually equal or close to the pulse measured at any peripheral point.
Activities that can provoke
, change include physical exercise, sleep, anxiety, stress, illness, and
ingestion of drugs.
The smartphone session data (1420) is the one that is collected from the
software application
running in the smartphone (1303 fig 13). It includes: Music being played,
Sound level, External
sound, and decibel levels. The music is identified by trackname and metadata.
It may include
the name of the artist, recording studio name, composer, and other data. The
metadata in the
track may include rhythm, tempo and timbre, among other information. The sound
level is the
output level from the smartphone to the sound output. The external sound and
decibel level
measurement comes from the microphone at the smartphone that captures the
ambience sound
and interprets what type of sound is in the ambiance, including (but not
limited to) voices,
machines in the background, engines, and others, just to name a few. In a
different embodiment
of the invention, video picked up from the microphone can also be used to
identify the light
ambience of the room where the user is operating the workspace fitness device
and the
environment around the workspace.
The Desktop Computer, tablet, or laptop session data (1430) is the one
collected from the
software installed in the Desktop Computer, tablet, or laptop (1305 fig. 13),
which includes:
kinetic data coming from typing on the keyboard and moving the mouse, and the
display data
which may include the name of the app that is selected as the app that is
running primarily
, where the input from the keyboard and mouse is happening.
FIG. 15 shows a flowchart describing how the music is classified and
correlated to stimuli
options.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Step 1501 - Music is classified and tagged based on tempo estimation and beat
tracking, and in
some cases - based on spectral features and timbre similarity with other
tagged music.
Step 1502 - Music classification is matched with the user's needs based on the
type of influence
or stimulus required to produce the expected results. We use the tagged music
with automatic
tempo estimation and beat tracking to recommend music that is specifically
tailored to the
performance needs and listening references of an individual using Workspace
Fitness Devices.
This provides a unique user experience, especially for the young-adult age
group which is
deeply connected to music. The software selects and recommends, from a
provided music
selection, based on information captured by the measurements acquired by the
sensors that are
part of the Workspace Fitness Devices, including the level of physical
activity that is acquired by
the sensors, as well as the customized fitness goals of each user.
The connection between music as a way to regulate physical activity has long
been known. For
example, music and rhythmic stimuli have been used for the rehabilitation of
gait disorders. Gait
abnormality is a deviation from normal walking (gait). Watching a patient walk
is the most
important part of the neurological examination. Normal gait requires that many
systems -
including strength, sensation, and coordination - function in an integrated
fashion.
The proposed patent application is based on using pre-classified music tracks
that had
embedded content analysis, and more specifically, tempo estimation and beat
tracking
functionalities. Automatic beat tracking algorithms connected to measured
activity have been
proposed to inform playlist generation for runners (Nuria Oliver and Lucas
Kreger-Stickles.
Papa: Physiology and purpose-aware automatic playlist generation. In ISMIR,
volume 2006,
page 7th, 2006) . In this work, the authors found that it was easier to use
music to reduce the
running pace than it was to increase it. The use of music in running was
further investigated by
other researchers (Joyce HDM Westerink, Arjan Claassen, Tijn Schuurmans,
Wijnand
Usselsteijn, Yvonne de Kort, Suzanne Vossen, Yuzhong Lin, and Guido van
Helvoort. Runners
experience of implicit coaching through music. In Sensing Emotions, pages 121-
134. Springer,
2010). Real-time auditory feedback has been shown to improve running cadences
(Jutta
Fortmann, Martin Pielot, Marco Mittelsdorf, Martin B uscher, Stefan Trienen,
and Susanne Boll.
Paceguard: improving running cadence by real-time auditory feedback. In
Proceedings of the
14th international conference on Human-computer interaction with mobile
devices and services
companion, pages 5-10. ACM, 2012). More recently, the use of heart beat
measurements has
been explored as a way to inform listening to music (Shahriar Nirjon, Robert F
Dickerson, Qiang
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Li, Philip Asare, John A Stankovic, Dezhi Hong, Ben Zhang, Xiaofan Jiang,
Guobin Shen, and
Feng Zhao. Musicalheart: A hearty way of listening to music. In Proceedings of
the 10th ACM
Conference on Embedded Network Sensor Systems, pages 43-56. ACM, 2012). We
plan to
apply adjacent concepts for office workers. The differences are big as runners
perform high
cardio physical activities vs. an office worker who can only perform low
cardio activities while at
the office by using the Smart Under-the-Desk Bike, for example.
Step 1503 - Music is made available to the user in the form of an audio file.
Music can be
presented in the form of an audio file in the user's device, an online music
service such as
Pandora or on-demand audio, stored in the cloud, or available through any
other electronic
means. One familiar with the art will appreciate that the audio files include
metadata containers
such as ID3, which is used in conjunction with the MP3 audio file format that
stores information
such as the title, artist, album, track number, and other information about
the file; in this case,
the metadata we use to classify the tempo, rhythm and other identifiers about
the audio file. One
familiar with the art will also appreciate that the audio file may be the
property of the user or the
user acquires access or rights to the music in any .other means. The music can
be tagged, for
example, but is not limited to metadata stored in the audio file itself,
making the music track part
of a playlist, storing the music file under a separate folder, or any other
similar means of
classification and indexing.
Step 1504- End
In a different embodiment of the invention, one familiar with the art will
appreciate that the
sensorial experience can vary from auditory, to kinetic, to aromatic. In such
cases, the process
is the same, classify and tag the sensorial experience content. In the case of
aromatic, the
fragrances that are known to influence the behaviour of a person in an
expected way. For
example, if the scent of pine helps the user concentrate, and the sensorial
experience required
by the user is to concentrate to think, then, the system sends commands to a
smart home
fragrance box or fragrance diffuser (i.e. a device that connects to WiFi and
can be controlled
from our application that has 2 or more different capsules or containers and
use the app to
control the level and intensity of each scent). The scents can ,be mixed &
matched between a
variety of options. The fragrance diffuser uses fans with adjustable speeds to
diffuse scents
throughout a room. Current Smart fragrance diffusers are available in the
market from brands
like Moodo, Agan Aroma, or several aroma diffuser machines coming from south
east Asia. One
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
familiar with the art will appreciate that in combination, or instead of
scents or fragrances, the
diffused product could be hormones that also help stimulate the user.
Continuing with the sensorial experiences, in the case of the kinetic
sensorial experience, it
includes(but is not limited to) the movements, vibrations and punctures that
might influence the
user's "feeling" sense. These include the use of a Smart Office Chair with
integrated motors
(insert Pat02) that provide massages or physical stimuli to the user on-demand
with signals to
power on, off, and intensity coming from the Al engine. The kinetic stimuli
may also include the
use of sensorial stimulants, such as anti-fatigue mats with or without motors,
pedals with
different types of surfaces or reflexology foot paths, and acupressure boards.
Or a smart mat.
FIG. 16 shows a flowchart describing one embodiment of the invention
Step 1601 - Determination that the user wants the Al engine to help him get a
better sensorial
experience
Step 1602 - Determination that the sensorial experience type is an auditive
experience
Step 1603 - The Al engine software receives the session data with the data
captured from the
workspace fitness devices, smart under the desk bike, smart sit-and-stand
desk, fitness tracking
device, Desktop Computer, and Smartphone.
Step 1604- the Al engine software tracks the performance of the user and,
Step 1605 - The software sends a command to the smartphone to play a specific
music at a
certain decibel level.
Step 1606 - The music plays - through the smartphone's headphones - a music
track tagged to
match the requested session experience
Step 1607 - After a set amount of time, reviews if the music recommendation
produced the
expected results. One familiar with the art will appreciate that by injecting
a sensorial experience
with music to a user using an Under-the-Desk bike while working may not change
the speed of
pedaling in the next 10 seconds after the music is inflicted, this may vary
from individual to
individual where this data is also captured by the Al engine to consider and
be used as a
baseline of expected time to view results. For example, an individual may be
pedaling at 20
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RPMs and, based on their performance goals set before the session, the user
might need to
pedal at 40 RPMs, thus, the system injects a new music track that matches the
expected
results.
Step 1608 - if the expected result is reached. Then End; if it is not met,
then back to Step 6.
FIG. 17 shows a table with the session data collected from the devices. In
this case, showing
the data collected from the Desktop Computer/laptop/tablet, the smartphone,
the fitness band,
the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk and the workspace fitness device (Smart Under-the-
Desk Bike).
The information is collected in real time but may only be represented as
averages over a
specific period of time. In this example, the table is separated by 5 minute
increments starting
when the user turned on the Desktop Computer at 9:10am, followed at the same
time by a
tapping or log-in process performed with the smartphone by tapping it to the
Smart
Sit-and-Stand Desk to initiate a session at the Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk at
the same time, it
was also detected that a Smart Under-the-Desk Bike was present and connected
to the
ecosystem. The user was wearing a fitness band, it transmitted a 50-60 heart
rate and there
was no song playing at the user's smartphone.
Continuing with the example, at 9:15am the height of the smart sit and stand
desk was identified
at 112 cm. Music (Vivaldi seasons, spring) started to play. Other information
such as music
metadata or audio levels were not captured in this example. One familiar with
the art will
appreciate that other values coming from input sources such as sensors,
input/output ports, and
others can be also collected for analysis in the machine learning / Al
database. Along the
collected session data from 9:10 am to 9:50 am there are many factors that are
considered as
input to the machine learning / Al database, one of the most important ones is
the music
selection at the smartphone, the BPM, and the RPM readings.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that = the BPM are read in real
time, but in some
embodiments of the invention, an average in a predetermined amount of time
must be used in
order to have better data to process.
At the smartphone, the music data can include the music ID and the metadata
tag. As explained
before, the metadata tag may include the rhythm, tempo, and other relevant
information. If that
= data is present, the smartphone can send that data as part of the
session.
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
In a different embodiment of the invention, when the metadata with the rhythm
and tempo is not
present, the snnartphone sends the data with the music ID. At the remote
server, the music ID
can be compared with a database of pre-classified music that has the data with
the rhythm and
tempo required.
In a different embodiment of the invention, when the workspace fitness device
that is identified
is a Smart Desk Controller (not necessarily a full Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk),
the data captured
is the same as the data needed from a Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk. Such data is
the desktop
height, time, and user ID (to name a few).
FIG. 18 shows a pair of surveys, the first one taken just 30 minutes after the
session example
from FIG. 17. The second one taken 4 hours after the same session. There could
be more
surveys collecting the same or different data. The data collected by these
surveys is just an
exemplification of the data that is collected and then fed to the Machine
Learning /Al database
engine.
These surveys are sent to the user to their smartphone via a message sent
through our
software app running in their smartphones. One familiar with the art will
appreciate that the
messages and the surveys could be sent in other means, including channels such
as (but not
limited to): SMS messages, email messages, phone interviews, observational
studies, or a
survey sent to the user via our app installed at their Desktop Computer,
laptop, or tablet. In a
different embodiment of the invention, the answers to the survey can be
collected by having the
user access a webportal or a software application at their discretion where
they can find the
questions or surveys related to their sessions.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the surveys collected from the
users are inputs of
data collected to be analysed using statistical techniques in order to find
the best combination of
tasks needed to be performed at the workspace fitness devices with the
expected results, which
is at this time, possible through the surveys. Other methods to capture such
data are through
3rd parties such as doctors or monitors who evaluate the user.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the surveys are replaced by
devices that measure
the happiness, fatigue, and energy levels of a user by evaluating chemical and
physical data
from medical equipment.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
The survey includes a timestamp and a session ID (from FIG. 17 example)
describing the time
the session started and finished. One familiar with the art will appreciate
that a session could be
any predetermined amount of time with a start and end time. For the purposes
of this
exemplification, we show a data collection (from FIG. 17 from 9:10-9:50 am on
October 10,
2018. The survey includes a timestamp of when it was sent and a second
timestamp with the
time the user answered the survey.
Next are the questions asked to the user. In this case, the questions showed
here are just
examples, actual surveys could vary depending on the type and number of
questions. A value is
giving to each answer, such values are the ones considered by the Machine
Learning / Al
database engine.
FIG. 19 is a table showing examples based on FIGS. 17 and 18 for values
collected from the
workspace fitness ecosystem. The first set of readings are from the use of a
Smart
Under-the-Desk Bike while using a Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk in a high position.
For each
relationship, a value is given as a value code. VC1 is the relationship
between the tempo of the
music and the RPMs of the pedals/crankshaft of the Smart Under-the-Desk bike.
The VC2 value
code is the relationship between the tempo of the music and the BPMs of the
user's heart rate.
VC3 is the relationship of the intensity of kinetic activity at the keyboard
and/or mouse and the
RPMs generated at the pedal/crankshaft of the smart under-the-desk bike. VC4
is the Desktop
Computer display and RPM relationship, where the Desktop Computer display data
may include
the name and type of the application that is open and active (where the mouse
and the
keyboard are inputting the data) this information is used to identify what
type of application the
user was using to identify a relationship between certain activities at a time
of the day. For
example, reading emails in the morning will include heavy use of a keyboard
and mouse, thus,
slowing the pedaling at the bike and reducing the output of RPMs detected.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that it is not necessary to capture
the content of the
keystrokes when typing, but to understand the keys per minute typed on the
keyboard. The
same goes for the mouse. For our machine learning / Al database engine, it is
not important to
understand where the mouse is pointed at or clicked, but to understand how
many times a
mouse pointer moved and for how long, in order to understand the relationship
between the use
of a mouse and other activities like standing or using the Smart Under-the-
Desk Bike.
The next set of values described in FIG. 19 are the ones collected while the
user used the
Smart Sit-and-Stand Desk in a standing position when no Smart Under-the-Desk
Bike nor other
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
workspace fitness device was present. VC5 is the relationship between the
tempo and the BPM,
VC6 is the relationship between the tempo of the music and the kinetic
activity value coming
from the use of the keyboard and mouse. VC7 is the tempo and display value
relationship.
The last set of values in this example are the ones coming from the smart sit-
and-stand desk in
a sit position where VC8 is the relationship between the tempo and the BPM.
VC9 is the
relationship between the tempo of the music and the kinetic activity value
coming from the use
of the keyboard and mouse. VC10 is the tempo and display value relationship.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the values in this example can
also be modified by
the software depending on the type of experience required by the user and on
improvements
based on the statistical techniques used to learn with the collected data.
FIG. 20 shows the collected data values and the relationship or influence
between the Value
Codes collected from the devices (2001) and the value of the data collected
from the surveys
(2002) also known as User Survey Values. By applying machine learning
statistical techniques
the goal is to have the User Survey Values to be as close as possible to the
optimal setting.
This Optimal Setting can be set by the software, the user, their employers,
medical doctors, or
any other person who may have access to modify such settings with the interest
of improving
the experience of the user while using the workspace fitness devices.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that with the data collected and
processed, the machine
learning / Al database engine will make suggestions or force the user to make
changes. The
machine learning / Al database engine will also collect data from such changes
and optimize the
recommendations, run the changes again until the software makes a
determination that the user
no longer wants to have his/her performance analysed while using a workspace
fitness device
and only wants the Workspace Fitness Device ecosystem to enforce, or recommend
the optimal
identified workspace sessions.
the invention uses a statistical technique that gives a computer system the
ability to "learn" with
data without, being explicitly programmed. By modifying the combination of
settings at the
= workspace fitness device and the sensOrial input in a specific session,
different value codes are
received. Moreover, in direct relation to those value codes, user survey
values are also received
for that session. If the survey values received are closer to the Optimal
Setting, then this
combination of settings is cataloged as "high" in the machine learning /
Artificial Intelligence
database engine (Al engine). For the next session, a new set of combination
settings is set by
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=
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
the Artificial Intelligence engine, thus, the workspace fitness devices, the
smartphone, and all
other connected devices use that new set of combination settings to try in the
next session the
user initiates. The results are again compared and new combinations are
computed until the
settings of the workspace fitness device and the sensorial input in a specific
session provide
results closer to the Optimal Settings.
Embodiments of the invention may be implemented on a computing system. Any
combination
of mobile, desktop, server, router, switch, embedded device, or other types of
hardware may be
used. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, the computing system (2100) may
include one or
more computer processors (2101), non-persistent storage (2102) (for example,
volatile memory,
such as random access memory (RAM), cache memory), persistent storage (2103)
(for
example, a hard disk, an optical drive such as a compact disk (CD) drive or
digital versatile disk
(DVD) drive, a flash memory, etc.), a communication interface (2104) (for
example, Bluetooth
interface, infrared interface, network interface, optical interface, etc.),
and numerous other
elements and functionalities.
The computer processor(s) (2101) may be an integrated circuit for processing
instructions. For
example, the computer processor(s) may be one or more cores or micro-cores of
a processor.
The computing system (2100) may also include one or more input devices (2110),
such as a
touchscreen, keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchpad, electronic pen, or any
other type of input
device.
The communication interface (2104) may include an integrated circuit for
connecting the
computing system (2100) to a network (not shown) (for example, a local area
network (LAN), a
wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, mobile network, or any other
type of network)
and/or to another device, such as another computing device.
Further, the computing system (2100) may include one or more output devices
(2106), such as
a screen (for example, an LCD display, a plasma display, touch screen, cathode
ray tube (CRT)
monitor, projector, or other display device), a printer, external storage, or
any other output
device. One or more of the output devices may be the same or different from
the input
device(s). The input and output device(s) may be locally or remotely connected
to the computer
processor(s) (2101), non-persistent storage (2102) , and persistent storage
(2103). Many
different types of computing systems exist, and the aforementioned input and
output device(s)
may take other forms.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Software instructions in the form of computer readable program code to perform
embodiments
of the invention may be stored, in whole or in p.art, temporarily or
permanently, on a
non-transitory computer readable medium such as a CD, DVD, storage device, a
diskette, a
tape, flash memory, physical memory, or any other computer readable storage
medium.
Specifically, the software instructions may correspond to computer readable
program code that,
when executed by a processor(s), is conFIG.d to perform one or more
embodiments of the
invention.
The computing system (2100) in FIG. 21 may be connected to or be a part of a
network. For
example, a network may include multiple nodes (for example, node X, node Y).
Each node may
correspond to a computing system, such as the computing system shown in FIG.
21, or a group
of nodes combined may correspond to the computing system shown in FIG. 21. By
way of an
example, embodiments of the invention may be implemented on a node of a
distributed system
that is connected to other nodes. By way of another example, embodiments of
the invention
may be implemented on a distributed computing system having multiple nodes,
where each
portion of the invention may be located on a different node within the
distributed computing
system. Further, one or more elements of the aforementioned computing system
(2100) may be
located at a remote location and connected to the other elements over a
network.
FIG. 22 shows a diagram of the Smart Mat of the invention, where a smart mat
(2300)
comprises the mat surface (2345) with different patterns .(2351), sensors
(2370) and load cells
(2371) connected to a Workspace Fitness Controler (2390) built into the Smart
Mat comprising a
CPU (2391), memory (2392), wireless communication (2395), one from the group
of Bluetooth,
NFC, Wi-Fi or RF communication. An energy management system (2393) comprising
a power
source (2361) with a battery (2394) an energy harvesting mechanism (2360),
which includes an
energy harvesting device that can pull energy directly from the human motions
and the
environment. The energy harvesting device from the group of solar power,
thermal energy, and
kinetic energy, where energy is captured, and optionally stored in the battery
(2394) for use in
our device. Energy harvesters provide a very small amount of power for low-
energy electronics,
one example are the piezoelectric effect which converts mechanical strain into
voltage or
electric current and generates electric energy from motion, weight, vibration
and temperature
changes. In a different embodiment of the invention, the Smart anti-fatigue
mat has a built-in
Solar panel. In a different embodiment of the invention the Smart anti-fatigue
mat has a built-in
human radiating-heat energy. In a different embodiment of the invention the
Smart anti-fatigue
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
mat has a built-in device that generates small amounts of electricity when it
is bent or pressed
even at the extremely low frequencies characteristic of human motion.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the different patterns (2351)
on the mat's surface
refer to patterns that provide different experiences for the user, such
patterns can be for
example a smooth surface or a specific pattern.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the CPU also has an accelerometer
(2369), compass
(2368). In another embodiment of the invention, the Smart anti-fatigue (2300)
also comprises a
built in heat pad (2340), a fan (2341), and a massage motor or vibrator (2342)
where the heat
pad provides heat to the feet of the user and the fan sends ventilation thru
the air vents (2344).
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing how the Smart anti fatigue mat (2300) with
wireless connectivity
(2395) such as wi-fl, Bluetooth or NFC, connects to a Smart Sit and Stand Desk
(2351) or
directly to the remote server (2372).
FIG. 24 shows a top view of the smart mat (2300) with different areas (2301,
2302) with different
=
textures, patterns and modes. Area 1 (2301) is a reflexology foot paths or
acupressure boards,
which are an alternative medicine tool that gives a user the benefits of
acupressure, with plastic
acupuncture points that stimulate specific areas of the body to bring pain
relief or help with other
issues. The density or pointiness of these acupressure points sometimes tend
to be very high,
so many people refer to them as "bed of nails" mats. Area 2 (2302) is where an
on-demand
motor for massage or vibration motor is located, the vibration motor is
activated on contact. One
familiar with the art will appreciate that the motor serves as a message
generator from the type
of vibration, beating, pounding or rolling. Beating and pounding is a massage
techniques used
to stimulate muscles it stimulates an increase of blood, temperature and
tissue elasticity.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the numbering on the areas is
just for
exemplification, different embodiments of the invention may include just one,
two or more areas
to an undefined number.
In a different embodiment of the invention, some areas may contain integrate
load cells or
balance sensors (2310, 2311) that send information to the Workspace Fitness
Controller, which
calculates that information in the form of the weight of the person riding the
apparatus. That
information can also be sent to the remote server for statistical or
informative purposes. The
weight can also be used to calculate the effort, calories burnt, and progress
of the user.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Continuing with FIG. 24, it shows the load cell supports (2388) connected to
the load cells
(2387). The load cell is a transducer that is used to create an electrical
signal whose magnitude
is directly proportional to the force being measured. The load cell from the
group types that
include hydraulic, pneumatic, and strain gauge. The load cell is a type of
force sensor that,
when connected to appropriate electronics in the workspace fitness controller,
return a signal
proportional to the mechanical force applied to the system, thus, calculating
the weight of the
apparatus and it's operator, if one is present. One familiar with the art will
appreciate that the
load cells are used to measure the weight of the apparatus with and without a
user or operator.
By measuring both states, the weight of the apparatus itself is the tare
weight. Once you add the
operator seated on the apparatus, the combined weight becomes the gross
weight. To get the
net weight of the operator or user, the workspace fitness controller subtracts
the tare weight
from the gross weight. That weight can be transmitted to the remote server in
real time, or just
keep that data as part of the performance data collected by the workspace
fitness device while
the user operates the apparatus.
In a different embodiment of the invention, some areas may contain sensors
(2398) from the =
group of pressure, presence, photoelectric, or resistive that send information
to the that send
information to the Workspace Fitness Controller. The data captured by the
sensors is used to
determine position of the feet in relationship with the desk. In a different
embodiment of the
invention, the sensors can sense different levels of pressure, thus,
identifying which part of the
feet is touching where as the heels have more pressure than the toes.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the data coming from this
sensors can be used for
other purposes such as posture, weight gain or loss or others.
FIG. 25A is a side view of the anti-fatigue mat (2500), with a top surface
(2501) on the side, it
shows the i/o ports including for example a USB connector and a power
conneetor.
FIG. 25B is a side cross sectional view of the smart anti-fatigue mat (2500)
showing the CPU
(2509), a heat pad (2510) and the massage motor (2511), at the end of the mat,
there's a bump
(2502) where users can rest their feet
The heating pad or heat pad (2510) is built-in in our Smart anti-fatigue mat
(2500). It is used for
warming barefeet for comfort or in order to manage pain. Localized application
of heat causes
42
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
the blood vessels in, that area to dilate, enhancing perfusion to the targeted
tissue. The electric
type of heating pad is used in our apparatus. The heat pad is connected to the
CPU (2509)
where it can turn it on or off and regulate the amount of heat created.
FIG. 26 shows a top cross sectional view of the smart anti fatigue mat
comprising a fan. The fan
is an electric driven fan (2600) that is installed inside the Smart. Air
circulation vents (2601)
inside the mat (2300) permit the air to travel to different areas of the mat.
The fans can direct
the air thru these circulation vents or directly towards the top to provide
air flow (2320) to the
feet and part of the legs of the user. The air coming from the fan can be also
used to distribute
the scent when using a smart fragrance box (not shown).
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the smart anti-fatigue mat can
be controlled
remotely using a smart gadget such as a smartphone, a smartwatch, a tablet or
a PC, when the
smart gadget is connected to the workspace fitness ecosystem via the remote
server, or locally
via a radio frequency connection.
FIG. 27A and 27B show a diagram describing the relationship of components of
the apparatus.
FIG. 27A shows a smart mattress cover (2700) comprising fabric embedded
sensors (2710)
wherein the fabric cover fits a mattress, a couch, a bed, or a cushion. The
sensors (2710)
connect to a PCBA (2720) that comprises a cpu (2721), memory (2722), and a
wireless
communication module (2727) that connects to a device (not shown), one from
the group of a
smart gadget, a smartwatch, a smartphone, a computer, a remote server.
Continuing with the
description of components, the apparatus also has a power source (2730), input
and output
ports (2740) that connect to peripherals. Continuing with FIG. 27A, in a
different embodiment of
the invention the apparatus comprises one or more load balances (2750)
connected to the
PCBA (2720), wherein the load balances install below the bed supports, wherein
the load
balances can calculate the weight of the bed with and without a user on it.
FIG. 27B shows a different embodiment of the invention, wherein the apparatus
described in
FIG. 27A also comprises motors that act as vibrators (2790) for massages and
heating pads
(2791) for heating, both as modules that are connected to the PCBA. Wherein
the modules
(vibrators and heating pads) can be controlled locally or remotely, whereby
the modules are
controlled remotely using a smart gadget or computer.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
FIG. 28A shows a diagram of the connectivity of components, the apparatus
(2700) connects to
a remote server (2800) via its wireless communication module. The remote
server (2800)
connects to a database (2801) that is administered by an operator or user. The
CPU in the
apparatus (2700) accesses the database (2801). In a different embodiment of
the invention, a
smart gadget or computer (2810) connects to the remote server (2800) and can
connect to the
apparatus (2700) using the remote server (2800) as a bridge.
FIG. 28B shows a different embodiment of the invention, wherein the apparatus
(2700)
connects (2899)- to a smart gadget or computer (2810), wherein the smart
gadget or computer
store the database (2802) and not the server. In a third embodiment of the
invention, the
database (2802) stored in the smart gadget or computer (2810) mirrors with the
database
(2801) in the remote server (2800) and reconciles with it. One famliar with
the art will appreciate
that a copy or mirror of the database running in a smart gadget of computer
comes handy when
the apparatus cannot connect to the remote server, but can connect locally
with the smart
gadget or computer, thus, still having access to recall or record the database
information.
FIG. 29 Shows the apparatus wherein the fabric cover (2900) with sensors
(2710) fits one from
the group of a mattress (2910), a couch, a bed, a cushion. One familiar with
the art will
appreciate that the mattress cover needs to fit the mattress in a particular
direction so the
sensors can collect the information required. For example, the head rests on a
pillow (2911) on
the top portion of the mattress, where the feet most of the time do not go all
the way to the
bottom (2912) of the mattress.
FIG. 30 Shows a top close-up view of the smart mattress cover (2900) with
sensors (2710),
which are one or more from the group of microphone, thermosensors,
photosensors, presence
sensors, pressure sensors, capacitive, urine sensor, flex sensor, in a
different embodiment of
the invention, the sensor is a heart rate monitor sensor that connect to a CPU
(2721) via
connecting cables or rails (3000). One familiar with the art will appreciate
that the sensors can
be connected in serial or parallel via cables, Wires or other means.
A flex sensor or bend sensor is a sensor that measures the amount of
deflection or bending.
Usually, the sensor is stuck to the surface, and resistance of sensor element
is varied by
44
= CA 3060274 2019-10-28
bending the surface. Since the resistance is directly proportional to the
amount of bend it is
used as goniometer, and often called flexible potentiometer
capacitive sensing (sometimes capacitance sensing) is a technology, based on
capacitive
coupling, that can detect and measure anything that is conductive or has a
dielectric different
from air.
Capacitive displacement sensors "are non-contact deviaes capable of high-
resolution
measurement of the position and/or change of position of any conductive
target". They are also
able to measure the thickness or density of non-conductive materials.
Capacitive displacement
sensors are used in a wide variety of applications including semiconductor
processing,
assembly of precision equipment such as disk drives, precision thickness
measurements,
machine tool metrology and assembly line testing. These types of sensors can
be found in
machining and manufacturing facilities around the world.
urine sensor is a necessary part of any bedwetting alarm. A basic urine sensor
consists of two
electricity conductors separated by moisture absorbing insulating material. A
low DC electric
voltage, provided by batteries, is applied across these conductors. This low
voltage is usually
about 3 volts, so as not to be dangerous to the user. When this insulating
material (frequently
cotton cloth as in common briefs) absorbs urine, it allows electricity to pass
through it and
between the conductors, resulting in a small electric current in the
conductors. The conductors
are attached to an alarm device, which triggers an alarm when it senses this
current. Most
sensors and alarms are engineered based on this concept. Note that unless the
urine reaches
the sensor mechanism and adequately wets the briefs (or insulator between the
conductors),
the urine may not be sensed and the alarm will not activate. Sensors are
usually classified in
terms of their attachment mechanisms to the briefs or other urine absorbing
medium. The major
sensor attachment categories are mechanical clips, sticky tape or pads for
flat surface sensors,
magnetic attachment, and wiring sewed into special briefs
FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing the detection of a human and the recording of a
session.
Step 3101 human lies in bed. A person goes on top of the bed
Step 3102 sensors make a determination of a human lying in bed, wherein the
determination comprises one from the group of: presence of a human, position
of the
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
human, activity of the human. For example, a person lies on bed on the side,
the ,
sensors may just be able to interpret one leg, one body and maybe one or two
arms and
the head
Step 3103 session is recorded in the CPU and transmitted to the database in
the remote
server or smart gadget. One familiar with the art will appreciate that the
recording of a
session can go live to te remote server and then transmitted to smart gadgets
which may
be monitoring the activity of that particular apparatus.
Step 3104 is a human still detected lying in bed? Yes back to Step 3103, no go
to step
3105
Step 3105 stop recording session.
Step 3106 upload data from session to the server, unless the recorded session
was
uploaded live to the remote server at the same time it was being recorded.
Step 3107 end
FIG. 32 shows a flowchart of how the vibration and heating features can be
controlled locally or
remotely, when remotely, using a smart gadget or computer. When locally, thru
a keypad, voice
control or other media not previously cited in the document.
Step 3201 determination of the need for a type of stimuli. The determination
can come
from a local input or remote input using a smart gadget or computer. Or
automatically
from predetermined settings at the remote server. For example, a user or
operator
presets that right after lying in bed and 30 minutes after falling asleep,
when the external
temperature is a certain degrees, to power on the heating pads to provide
heat.
Step 3202 from the database determine the type of stimuli to provide for the
user. One
familiar with the art will appreciate that the way it works for the stimuli is
similar to that
= described in FIGS. 1 to 26 of this document.
46
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Step 3203 CPU sends command to modules to provide stimuli. The modules or
features
can be the massage motors or the heating pads to provide heat to the user or
operator
of the apparatus
Step 3204 end
FIG. 33 shows the steps taken to do an identification of the people lying in
bed where the
apparatus of the invention is covering the mattress
Step 3301 detecting the presence of one or more humans. For example, a person
lies in
bed, at the moment the person lies on bed, the presence sensor is activated,
informing
the CPU of the presence of a human.
Step 3302 determining the position taken by a first human, by reading the data
collected
from the sensors. One familiar with the art will appreciate that the sensors
in the
apparatus can be one or a combination of different technologies as described
in FIG. 30.
Step 3303 correlating the position of the first human with similar positions
in the
database to determine the identification of the first human. Humans have
habits,
specially when lying in bed, by correlating a history of positions of a
person, the system
can identify who is lying in bed taking into consideration that beds are
personal pieces of
furniture (except for guest rooms and hotel rooms).
Step 3304 making a positive identification of the first human. Usually, for
individual beds,
only one human will occupy a space, in other instances a couple of humans may
occupy
space in the bed, specially married couples.
Step 3305 recording a session data for the first human. Once a first human is
identified,
a session for that human is recorded, In case there are two humans lying in
bed, once
identified, a session is recorded for each individual. In case that the
identification of one
or more humans is not a positive identification, record the session data as
unidentified
human session.
47
CA 3060274 2019-10-28
In a different embodiment of the invention the method can determine the
position taken
by a second human by correlating the position of the second human with similar
positions in the database to determine the identification of the second human,
then
proceeding to make a positive identification of the second human, and record
the
session data for the second human.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that by detecting one or 2 people
lying in bed,
once the proper identification is made, the tracking of positions and fitness
can be
performed in one mattress cover for two people at the same time.
FIG. 34 is a flowchart of the method further comprising a second
identification of the people
lying in bed comprising:
Step 3401 weighting the first and second humans in bed using the load balances
Step 3402 correlating that information with the weights recorded at the
database
Step 3403 making a determination, based on the weight, of the identification
of the
human or humans in bed,
Step 3404 correlating the results with the results from the first
identification of the people
lying in bed,
Step 3405 positive or negative id? Has a positive ID of the human lying in bed
has been
made? If so, proceed to 3406, if not proceed to 3407
Step 3406 whereby the results match, label the identification as a double
positive, then
End
Step 3407 whereby the results don't match, label the results as inconclusive
then End.
In a different embodiment of the invention, when the results are labeled as
inconclusive
the session is still recorded as unidentified human session.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
FIG. 35 shows a flow chart of how to deal with an unidentified human session
Step 3501 sending a message, comprising the session data to the apparatus
operator
requesting him/her to identify the humans in that session. The session data
comprises
one from the group of: recording the readings from the sensors in a timeline.
Step 3502 receiving a response to the message with the identification of the
humans,
Step 3503 adding the identification of the humans to the session data.
FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing the steps on how the apparatus helps to
stimulate the user
Step 3601 reading the data from the session data,
Step 3602 making a determination of the type of stimulation needed from the
first
human, the Type of the stimulation needed is one from the group of kinetic,
thermal,
aromatic, auditory or visual
Step 3603 correlating the stimulation with the right feature,
Step 3604 sending a command to the CPU with instructions comprising the type,
time
= and amount of power to operate the requested feature.
Step 3605 kinetic stimulation is one from the group of activating the
vibrating motors for
a kinetic stimulation. then step 10
Step 3606 auditive then step 10
Step 3607 visual wherein peripherals comprise one or more, or a combination of
one or
more from the group of music player, aromatic dispenser, light controller,
dimming
lights, color lights, massager, heathers.
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CA 3060274 2019-10-28
Step 3608 thermal stimulation is when heating pads are turned on and heat
emerges
from them for a specific amount of time.
Step 3609 aromatic, as explained in FIGS. 1 to 26, the aromatic experience may
involve
dispensing fragrances and aromas on command
Step 3610 the stimulation needed is performed for one,or more periods of time
within the
session, based on the database settings that are provided by the operator,
whereby in
the absence of that input, the settings in the database are default settings.
FIGS. 37A to 37F show top views of a bed with the mattress cover of the
invention with
silhouettes of 2 users, using an artificial intelligence engine running at the
remote server, the
method analyzes the possible positions of one or two persons lying in bed
determining the
pressure and number of extremities detected.
In a different embodiment of the invention, in combination with the weight
data coming from the
load balances at the bedpost, a determination of the number of people is made.
In a different embodiment of the invention, the postures shown in 37A and 37F
are examples of
silhouettes of 2 people in different positions but separate from, one another.
The data from the
postures is used to train the machine learning database. One familiar with the
art will appreciate
that once the database is trained with enough samples, the artificial
intelligence engine can be
able to differentiate 2 people even when they are not separate but together.
FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing how the machine learning data from the
artificial intelligence
engine is fed to the system
Step 3801 determining the presence of a person lying in bed. This process can
be two
persons and other methods of determining the number of people apply, like the
method
described in FIG. 37.
Step 3802 determining the positive identification of the person
Step 3803 determining the position of the person
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Step 3804 recording the session
Step 3805 apply an stimulation based on information from the presets and the
artificial
intelligence engine
Step 3806 after the session, send a message with a survey to the identified
person or
administrator to improve the data in the artificial intelligence engine.
Step 3807 feed the data to the machine learning engine
Step 3808 use the new data to improve the suggestions made to the identified
person.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the same process taken from
FIGS. 1 to 26
can be applied to the method and apparatus described in FIGS. 27 onward.
FIG. 39 is a flowchart showing how using the artificial intelligence helps to
provide a better
stimulation for the user
Step 3901 database is trained
Step 3902 using the data from the database determine the influence factors.
Influence
factors may include outside weather, internal temperature of the house, day of
the week,
calendar input from the user, for example, the user has in his calendar an
appointment
from 10pm to 12am, thus, the apparatus should not expect anyone to be lying in
bed
anytime before 12am. Thus, if the user wants to have the heating pads in his
mattress
cover to be heated 30 minutes before going to sleep, when he usually goes to
sleep at
10pm every day. The heating pads in this instance are not turned on at 10pm as
it is
regularly done, but, until 12am or approximately 30 minutes before the user is
expected
to get home. In a different example, the calendar for the user may show that
he will be
out of town for the next 3 days, thus, the artificial intelligence engine
sends a command
to the apparatus not to power on any of the features till further notice or
till the apparatus
detects the presence of the user again.
Step 3903 turn on the modules or features determined by the artificial
intelligence engine
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Step 3904 send a message to the user indicating actions. One familiar with the
art will
appreciate that the user may override any of the suggestions and automatic
features of
the artificial intelligence engine suggestions, following the adobe example,
the user may
not want the heating pads to be on while he's not in the house, so he can
override and
turn them off.
Step 3905 wait for user to lye in bed
Step 3906 determination that the user is in bed
Step 3907 turn on any features needed based on the artificial intelligence
engine
suggestions
Step 3908 determine there are no more features to turn on
Step 3909 end
FIG. 40 shows a diagram with relationship of features connected to the
artificial intelligence
engine where an Apparatus (2700) has Preset features. The apparatus connects
to a remote
server (2800), which connects to a database or device with a database that has
the user data
(4000) that includes the custom features selected by the user, access to
his/her online
presence such as facebook, calendar, instagram, snapchat with geotag and time
tags.
One familiar with the art will appreciate that the social media presence may
include input from
the feeds from facebook, instagram, whereby a photo in instagram geotagged
with the user in a
different city where the apparatus is, may indicate that the apparatus should
not execute any of
the modules or features until the user or operator comes back from vacation.
While the invention has been described with respect to a limited number of
embodiments, those
skilled in the art, having the benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate
that other embodiments
can be devised which do not depart from the scope of the invention as
disclosed herein.
Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached
claims.
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