Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device that is designed to track muscle fatigue and lactate levels based on exercise intensity, by monitoring key physiological metrics, such as blood pressure and heart rate, and detects rapid breathing patterns and accordingly advises users to adjust intensity to prevent muscle failure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Muscle fatigue monitoring is becoming increasingly essential for optimizing athletic performance and preventing overtraining. During intense exercise, the body produces lactate as a by-product of anaerobic metabolism, which can lead to muscle fatigue and discomfort. High lactate concentrations in the blood signal that the body is nearing its physical limits, potentially causing performance degradation and increasing the risk of injury. Monitoring lactate levels in real-time allows athletes to adjust their training intensity and recovery strategies, ensuring they stay within optimal physiological limits. Additionally, muscle fatigue is a key factor in performance and recovery, with fatigue often indicating the depletion of energy stores and muscle micro-damage. Wearable devices that track muscle contractions and other fatigue indicators, such as heart rate and breathing patterns, can help athletes identify when they are pushing beyond their physical capacity, guiding them to take corrective actions like reducing intensity or focusing on recovery exercises. For recreational users and patients undergoing rehabilitation, lactate and fatigue monitoring offers valuable insights into the body’s response to exercise, helping prevent overexertion and enhance rehabilitation outcomes. These technologies enable non-invasive, real-time monitoring, empowering users to optimize their workouts, avoid injury, and improve overall health and fitness.

[0003] Wearable equipment for lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring typically includes sensors that measure physiological markers such as lactate levels, muscle oxygen saturation, and electrical signals related to muscle activity. These devices often incorporate biosensors like electrochemical sensors for lactate, near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) for muscle oxygenation, or electromyography (EMG) sensors to detect muscle activity. Examples include products like the Moxy Monitor and the Lactate Plus system, which are worn on the body during physical activity to provide real-time data for athletes or those undergoing rehabilitation. However, the accuracy is affected by environmental factors such as temperature, sweat, or movement, leading to potential measurement errors. Additionally, sensors may suffer from calibration issues, requiring frequent recalibration to maintain reliability. Battery life can also be limited, necessitating regular recharging. Another challenge is the discomfort or inconvenience of wearing these devices for extended periods, especially during intense physical activity. Lastly, while data provided by these devices can be valuable, interpreting and acting on this information often requires expertise, which may limit their accessibility for general users without professional guidance.

[0004] JP2014104267A discloses a method for evaluating fatigue recovery of subjects by taking a break using a plurality of parameters, in which the subjects repeat incremental loading exercises twice, with the break taken there between, and the incremental loading exercises consists of a series of steps of starting a loading exercise, then incrementing the exercise, and, when the subjects cannot continue the exercise due to fatigue, finishes the loading exercise. The plurality of parameters includes; a parameter of the following (a), and at least one of parameters (b) and (c), and the parameters represent ratios of fatigue recovery of the subjects by the break. (a) (a total workload in a second incremental loading exercise) ÷ (a total workload in a first incremental loading exercise) ×100, (b) (a heart rate immediately before the first incremental loading exercise) ÷ (a heart rate immediately before the second incremental loading exercise) ×100, and (c)(a lactate level in the blood immediately before the first incremental loading exercise)÷(a lactate level in the blood immediately before the second incremental loading exercise)×100.

[0005] US2007179350A1 discloses a method for enhanced exercise training or performance utilizing intentional controlled tachypnea and somatic sensory alkalosis biofeedback training to maintain an essentially non-acidic state during exercise. A trainee is instructed to decrease measured transcutaneous CO2 levels by increased ventilation and to correlate measured transcutaneous CO2 levels with subjective somatic symptoms. Studies under exercise conditions measure the intensity of exercise correlating to an onset in blood lactate accumulation in the trainee and such level of intensity is in turn correlated with a predetermined heart rate. The trainee is then instructed to use heart rate as a guide to the need for increased ventilation to lower blood CO2. In another embodiment, the method of the instant invention utilizes intentional controlled tachypnea to increase maximum breath holding time.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to monitor muscle fatigue, however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to offering guidance to maintain optimal lactate levels throughout the workout.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to be capable of monitoring muscle fatigue and lactate concentration in response to exercise intensity, while also measuring physiological parameters like heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, the developed device needs to evaluate changes in breathing patterns, providing real-time advice to reduce exercise intensity and avoid muscle failure, ensuring effective workout management.

OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.

[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of monitoring muscle fatigue and lactate concentration in accordance to exercise being performed based on exercise intensity.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of measuring physiological parameters including blood pressure and heart rate, and enabling detection of rapid breathing patterns and based on detected parameters, informs the user to reduce exercise intensity in view of safeguarding the user from muscle failure.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of guiding the user in exercise and helps to maintain optimal lactate levels during workout.

[0012] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention relates to a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device that is capable of assessing muscle fatigue and lactate accumulation based on exercise intensity, by virtue of tracking vital signs such as heart rate, blood pressure, rapid breathing and based on the tracked parameters, alerts users to decrease exercise intensity to prevent muscle failure.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device, comprises of a wearable body having a plate adapted to fit around wrist of a user, a touch sensor is embedded at center of a bottom surface of the plate to automatically activate device functions when the body is worn by a user, a motorized roller coiled with a strap is integrated with one end of the plate to move in clockwise and counter-clockwise direction to secure the body with the wrist, an electromagnet disposed at other end of the strap to secure the strap over the wrist after the strap has been adjusted to a desired tightness, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit to monitor user’s body movements and identify type of exercise being performed, including distinguishing between aerobic and anaerobic exercises based on exercise intensity, an optical sensor embedded in the plate, utilizing near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure lactate accumulation.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device comprises of a speaker integrated with the body is activated by the microcontroller to provide audio alerts when in case the user ignores haptic feedback and continues exercising beyond optimal lactate thresholds, a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor embedded with the wearable body for measurement of physiological parameters including blood pressure and heart rate, and enabling detection of rapid breathing patterns indicative of exercise intensity, the microcontroller trigger notifications to the user via the speaker to take corrective actions such as deep breathing exercises or reducing exercise intensity, an electromyography (EMG) sensor embedded with the plate, configured to detect muscle contraction and expansion during physical activity, and the microcontroller alerts the user when muscle contraction signals an increased demand for energy and lactate production, advising a transition to aerobic activities to reduce lactate levels.

[0016] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a colorimetric sensor embedded in inner periphery of the plate to detect lactate concentrations in sweat, and providing real-time feedback to user via haptic and audio alerts based on lactate accumulation during anaerobic exercise, a conduit with a motorized valve is integrated into the body to collect sweat from user's skin and direct it to the colorimetric sensor for lactate measurement, and a micro holographic projection unit mounted at a top portion of the plate, supported by a motorized ball-and-socket joint, and operable to display real-time instructional videos and exercise guidance to user, helping maintain optimal lactate levels during workout.

[0017] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0020] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0021] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0022] The present invention relates to a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device that is capable of providing a wearable technology for monitoring muscle fatigue and lactate concentration in relation to exercise intensity, while measuring physiological parameters such as blood pressure and heart rate. The device evaluates abnormal breathing patterns and accordingly alerts users to lower exercise intensity to avoid muscle failure, and provides exercise recommendations to manage lactate levels effectively.

[0023] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device is illustrated, comprises of a wearable body 101 having a circular-shaped plate 102, a motorized roller 103 coiled with a strap 104 integrated with one end of the plate 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on the body, a speaker 106 integrated with the body, a motorized valve 107 integrated into the body, a micro holographic projection unit 108 mounted at a top portion of the plate 102, and an electromagnet 109 disposed at other end of the strap 104.

[0024] The proposed invention includes a wearable body 101 having a plate 102 preferably in curve shape incorporating various components associated with the device, developed to be fit around wrist of a user. The body 101 is made up of any material selected from but not limited to metal or plastic that ensures rigidity of the body 101 for longevity of the device.

[0025] The bottom surface of the plate 102 is embedded with a touch sensor. The device gets automatically activated for performing associated processes of the device, upon wearing of the device by the user. The touch sensor opens up an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow for powering an associated microcontroller of the device for operating of all the linked components for performing their respective functions upon actuation.

[0026] The touch sensor works like a switch, such that when there's contact, touch, or pressure on the surface of the touch sensor, it opens up an electrical circuit and allows currents to flow through it, the sensor then transmit signal to the microcontroller for processing in order to detect positioning of the body 101 over the wrist of the user.

[0027] The microcontroller, mentioned herein, is preferably an Arduino microcontroller. The Arduino microcontroller used herein controls the overall functionality of the components linked to it. The Arduino microcontroller is an open-source programming platform.

[0028] One end of the plate 102 is integrated with a motorized roller 103 coiled with a strap 104. While activation of the device, the microcontroller then actuates a direct current (DC) motor associated with the roller 103 such that rotates an integrated hub of the roller. The rotation of the hub of the roller 103 consequently results in rotation of the roller 103 in clockwise/counter-clockwise direction for wrapping/unwrapping the strap 104 to secure the body 101 with the wrist.

[0029] Simultaneously, one end of the strap 104 is integrated with an electromagnet 109 to secure the strap 104 over the wrist after the strap 104 has been adjusted to a desired tightness. The microcontroller energizes the electromagnet 109 to secure the strap 104 with the body. The electromagnet 109 consists of wire wound into a coil and a current through the wire creates a magnetic field which is concentrated in the hole, denoting the center of the coil. The magnetic field disappears when the current is turned off. The wire turns are wound around a magnetic core made from a ferromagnetic or ferromagnetic material such as iron; the magnetic core concentrates the magnetic flux and makes a more powerful magnet.

[0030] Post securing the body 101 with the user’s wrist, the microcontroller generates a command to activate an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 integrated on the body 101 for capturing multiple images of the user’s body. The imaging unit 105 is synchronized with a computer vision module such that identifies type of exercise being performed, including distinguishing between aerobic and anaerobic exercises based on exercise intensity. The imaging unit 105 incorporates a processor that is encrypted with an artificial intelligence protocol. The artificial intelligence protocol operates by following a set of predefined instructions to process data and perform tasks autonomously. Initially, data is collected and input into a database, which then employs protocol to analyze and interpret the captured images. The processor of the imaging unit 105 via the artificial intelligence protocol processes the captured images and sent the signal to the microcontroller.

[0031] The body 101 is equipped with an optical sensor embedded in the plate 102 for monitoring lactate accumulation in muscles of the user corresponding to fatigue level of the user while performing exercise. The optical sensor uses near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure lactate accumulation by detecting changes in light absorption at specific wavelengths. When near-infrared light is directed onto the skin, it penetrates the tissue and interacts with molecules in the sweat, including lactate. Lactate, like other substances, absorbs light at distinct wavelengths. The sensor measures the amount of light absorbed and the reflected light, which varies depending on lactate concentration. The resulting data is processed to determine the lactate levels. NIRS provides a non-invasive, real-time method for monitoring lactate accumulation, offering valuable insights into physical performance and metabolic conditions.

[0032] In case the microcontroller evaluates the monitored lactate levels exceed a preset threshold value, the microcontroller actuates a vibrating unit integrated in the plate 102 to provide haptic alerts to the user. The vibrating unit subjects the plate 102 to the action of moving or causing to move back and forth or from side to side very quickly leading to controlled and reproducible mechanical vibration providing haptic alerts to alert to the user to stop exercising beyond optimal lactate thresholds.

[0033] In the event, the user ignores the haptic alerts, the microcontroller alerts the user via audio commands through a speaker 106 integrated over the body 101 regarding ceasing down the activity by the user. The speaker 106 works by taking the input signal from the microcontroller, it then processes and amplifies the received signal through a series of equipment in a specific order within the speaker 106, and then sends the output signal in form of audio notification through the speaker 106 for alerting the user to stop the workout activity due to rise in lactate levels.

[0034] Simultaneously, the user’s physiological parameters are measured by a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor embedded with the wearable body. The physiological parameters include blood pressure and heart rate, and enabling detection of rapid breathing patterns indicative of exercise intensity. The FBG sensor reflects wavelength of light that shifts in response to variations in vital health parameters such as breathing patterns leading to change in refractive index permanently due to exposed light intensity and due to periodic variation in the refractive index, the FBG sensor detects vital health parameters of the user. In accordance to the detected parameters, the microcontroller notifies the user to take corrective actions such as deep breathing exercises or reducing exercise intensity via the speaker 106.

[0035] The physical activity of the user is further monitored by an electromyography (EMG) sensor which is embedded with the plate 102. The EMG sensor detects muscle contraction and expansion during physical activity. The Electromyography (EMG) sensor measures electrical activity produced by muscles during contraction and relaxation. When electrodes touch the skin of the user detect these electrical signals. The signals are amplified and sent to the microcontroller in order to detect muscular strain of the user. In case the user’s muscle contraction signals increased demand for energy and lactate production, the microcontroller advises the user to shift over aerobic activities in order to reduce the lactate levels.

[0036] The body 101 is integrated with a motorized valve 107 which is connected with a conduit to collect sweat from user's skin. The motorized valve 107 functions to collect sweat by controlling the flow of sweat into a collection chamber integrated within the plate 102. When activated, the motorized valve 107 opens to allow sweat to be captured from the user’s skin, typically through a sweat-absorbing pad or microchannel arrangement. The valve 107 is precisely controlled by an integrated system, which adjusts the opening and closing based on real-time measurements or pre-set conditions. Once the valve 107 is open, sweat is directed into the collection chamber where it is then analyzed for various biomarkers. The valve 107 then closes to seal the chamber once the desired amount of sweat is collected.

[0037] The inner periphery of the plate 102 is embedded with a colorimetric sensor to detect lactate concentrations in the collected sweat of the user. The colorimetric sensor works by detecting lactate concentrations in sweat through a chemical reaction that causes a color change. When sweat is collected, it interacts with a reagent embedded in the sensor, which reacts specifically with lactate molecules. This reaction alters the color of the sensor, with the intensity of the color change being proportional to the lactate concentration in the sweat. A sensor reading is then taken, typically by a photodetector, which measures the color shift and translates it into a quantitative lactate concentration.

[0038] The user is provided with a real-time feedback to the user via haptic through the vibration unit. The user is also alerted via the speaker 106 regarding the lactate accumulation during anaerobic exercise. During increased mechanical stress or fatigue in the muscle of the user, the microcontroller audio alerts to user, advising the user to adjust workout intensity to avoid injury.

[0039] In relation to guide the user regarding exercising and special workout regime, the microcontroller actuates a micro holographic projection unit 108 which is mounted at a top portion of the plate 102. The micro holographic projection unit 108 uses interference patterns of light to create realistic three-dimensional images in mid-air. It typically consists of a laser source, beam splitters, mirrors, and a holographic screen or projection surface. The projection unit 108 projects light onto a surface from multiple angles, using the interference of light waves to produce 3D images visible from different perspectives. In an educational setting, this allows the user to view compound exercise movements.

[0040] The articulation of the projection unit 108 is provided by a motorized ball-and-socket joint integrated in between the projection unit 108 and the plate 102. The ball and socket joint provides a 360-degree rotation to the projection unit 108 for aiding the projection unit 108 to turn at a desired angle. The ball and socket joint are a coupling consisting of a ball joint securely locked within a socket joint, where the ball joint is able to move in a 360-dgree rotation within the socket thus, providing the required rotational motion to the projection unit 108. The ball and socket joint are powered by a DC (direct current) motor that is actuated by the microcontroller thus providing multidirectional movement to the projection unit 108 to guide the user regarding exercise in a swift manner.

[0041] While guiding the user regarding the exercise, the imaging unit 105 differentiate between male and female users and tailors the exercise suggestions accordingly such that consequently based on physiological differences such as muscle fiber composition and lactate production rates.

[0042] A battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.

[0043] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the wearable body 101 as disclosed in the invention is designed to monitor and optimize the user’s exercise performance through multiple integrated sensors and the microcontroller. The plate 102, fitted around the user's wrist, contains the touch sensor that activates the device when worn. The motorized roller, coiled with the strap 104, secures the wearable to the wrist, while the imaging unit 105 with the computer vision module tracks the user's body 101 movements to identify the type of exercise and its intensity, distinguishing between aerobic and anaerobic activities. The optical sensors using near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) measure lactate levels by detecting light absorption, alerting the user with haptic feedback and audio notifications if lactate levels exceed safe thresholds. Additionally, the Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor measures vital signs like blood pressure and heart rate, while detecting rapid breathing patterns, prompting corrective actions such as deep breathing exercises. The electromyography (EMG) sensor tracks muscle contractions, advising users to switch to aerobic exercises when lactate production increases. The colorimetric sensor in the plate 102 detects lactate in sweat, providing real-time feedback during anaerobic exercise. Sweat is collected via the motorized valve 107 and directed to the sensor for analysis. Finally, the micro holographic projection unit 108 offers real-time instructional videos, ensuring the user maintains optimal lactate levels during workouts.

[0044] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A wearable lactate and muscle fatigue monitoring device, comprising:

i) a wearable body 101 having a plate 102 adapted to fit around wrist of a user, wherein a touch sensor is embedded at a center of a bottom surface of said plate 102, operable to automatically activate device functions when said body 101 is worn by a user,

ii) a motorized roller 103 coiled with a strap 104, integrated with one end of said plate 102 that is actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to move in a clockwise and counter-clockwise direction to secure said body 101 with said wrist, wherein an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 synchronized with computer vision module is mounted on said body 101 to monitor user’s body 101 movements and identify type of exercise being performed, including distinguishing between aerobic and anaerobic exercises based on exercise intensity;

iii) an optical sensor embedded in said plate 102, utilizing near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to measure lactate accumulation by detecting changes in light absorption at specific wavelengths, and providing feedback to the user via haptic alerts if lactate levels exceeds a preset threshold, wherein a speaker 106 integrated with said body 101 is activated by said microcontroller to provide audio alerts when in case said user ignores haptic feedback and continues exercising beyond optimal lactate thresholds;

iv) a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) sensor embedded with said wearable body 101 for measurement of physiological parameters including blood pressure and heart rate, and enabling detection of rapid breathing patterns indicative of exercise intensity, wherein said microcontroller trigger notifications to said user via said speaker 106 to take corrective actions such as deep breathing exercises or reducing exercise intensity;

v) an electromyography (EMG) sensor embedded with said plate 102, configured to detect muscle contraction and expansion during physical activity, and said microcontroller alerts said user when muscle contraction signals an increased demand for energy and lactate production, advising a transition to aerobic activities to reduce lactate levels;

vi) a colorimetric sensor embedded in inner periphery of said plate 102 to detect lactate concentrations in sweat, and providing real-time feedback to user via haptic and audio alerts based on lactate accumulation during anaerobic exercise, wherein a conduit with a motorized valve 107 is integrated into the body 101 to collect sweat from user's skin and direct it to said colorimetric sensor for lactate measurement; and

vii) a micro holographic projection unit 108 mounted at a top portion of said plate 102, supported by a motorized ball-and-socket joint, and operable to display real-time instructional videos and exercise guidance to user, helping maintain optimal lactate levels during workout.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein an electromagnet 109 is disposed at other end of said strap 104, to secure said strap 104 over said wrist after said strap 104 has been adjusted to a desired tightness.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said imaging unit 105 is further configured to differentiate between male and female users and tailor exercise suggestions accordingly, based on physiological differences such as muscle fiber composition and lactate production rates.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller triggers audio alerts to user when increased mechanical stress or fatigue is detected, advising said user to adjust workout intensity to avoid injury.