Electronic weighing device and server system

An electronic weighing device is provided. The electronic weighing device comprises an elongate frame; a head unit, wherein the head unit is supported by the frame. The electronic weighing device further includes a scale platform coupled to a base of the frame, and a load-cell module residing in the scale platform, wherein the load-cell module is configured to convert a force on the scale platform when a user stands on the scale platform, into a measurable electrical output signal. The electronic weighing device further includes an electronic display device in the head unit, an electronics module coupled to the load-cell module and to the electronic display device, wherein the electronics module is configured for interacting with a user via the electronic display device and determining the weight of the user based on an electrical output signal from the load-cell. The electronic weighing device further comprises a communication module configured for communicating with a remote device via a communication link.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to weighing scales, and in particular, to electronic weighing scales.

2. Description of Related Art

Traditional scales for weighing a human being are generally portable units providing limited information. The scales do little more than show bodyweight in response to a user standing thereupon. Conventional scales typically utilize a compression spring.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one embodiment, the present invention provides an electronic weighing device, comprising an elongate frame; a head unit, wherein the head unit is supported by the frame; a scale platform coupled to a base of the frame; a load-cell module residing in the scale platform, wherein the load-cell module is configured to convert a force on the scale platform when a user stands on the scale platform, into a measurable electrical output signal; an electronic display device in the head unit; an electronics module coupled to the load-cell module and to the electronic display device, wherein the electronics module is configured for interacting with a user via the electronic display device and determining the weight of the user based on an electrical output signal from the load-cell; and a communication module configured for communicating with a remote device via a communication link.

In another embodiment, the present invention provides a method for electronically weighing a user, comprising: when a user stands on a scale platform of the electronic weighing device, generating output data including the weight of the user based on an electrical output signal from a load-cell in the scale platform, wherein the load-cell converts a force on the scale platform into a measurable electrical output signal; and transmitting the output data to a remote device via a communication link.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following description is made for the purpose of illustrating the general principles of the present invention and is not meant to limit the inventive concepts claimed herein. Further, particular features described within can be used in combination with other described features in each of the various possible combinations and permutations. Unless otherwise specifically defined herein, all terms should be given their broadest possible interpretation including meanings implied from the specification as well as meanings understood by those skilled in the art and/or as defined in dictionaries, treatises, etc.

Embodiments of the invention provide an electronic weighing system, comprising a scale apparatus (device) and health monitoring processes implemented therein. In one embodiment, the electronic weighing system includes a scale device, a communication module for data communication (such as via Internet, cellular network, local area network, etc.), a user interface module such as a touch-screen driven by a user interface application, memory, and a storage module for storing information such as user data. In one embodiment, a touch-screen user interface device and a hardware processor module are embedded within the electronic weighing system (such as in the scale apparatus), wherein the processor implements a process for electronically weighing a user according to the invention.

Referring now to the embodiments of the invention shown in the drawings,FIGS. 1 and 2illustrate a front view and a perspective view of an electronic weighing system100, respectively, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electronic weighing system100comprises a scale having a head unit102, an elongate frame106and a rectilinear box platform110having an essentially planar upper surface for a human user to stand on. The head unit102is attached to an upper portion of the frame106. The base of the frame is attached to the platform110, wherein the platform110further supporting the scale on a surface such as a floor or ground. In one embodiment, the head unit102comprises a rectilinear housing having a front face plate102F and a back cover102A (FIG. 2).

In one embodiment, the electronic weighing system100further comprises a housing107located proximate the lower portion of the frame106, between the head unit102and the platform110. The housing107contains a power module108and an electronics module300configured for providing electrical power and control to the electronic weighing system100. The platform110, located at the base of the frame106, includes load-cell module320.

The electronic weighing system100may be configurable in different ways, one of which is exemplified inFIGS. 1 and 2as a kiosk-style scale having a touch-screen LCD device104in the head unit102as part of the user interface. The touch-screen LCD device104may comprise a high resolution touch-screen LCD optimally angled (e.g., about 30°+/−2°) on the frame106for user interface and interaction. In one embodiment, the frame106comprises hollow metal (e.g., aluminum, steel, etc.) which facilitates routing cables and/or wires (e.g., electrical, data, etc.) therein between components of the weighing system100, such as between the power module108, the load-cell320, the head unit102, and the electronics module300. A user places his/her weight on the top surface of the platform110, the force of the weight of the user is transferred to the load-cell320under the platform110.

FIG. 3illustrates a block diagram of the electronics module300of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electronics module300comprises a processing module302(e.g., CPU, processor, computer, etc.), a memory module304(e.g., RAM, ROM, EEPROM, etc.), a storage module306(e.g., disk drive, solid state disc (SSD), etc.), a communication module310, along with a user interface module308including a graphical user interface (GUI)326. The electronics module300further comprises device drivers314, an operating system316, and an application module318.

In one embodiment, the communication module310may implement wireless communication, for example, according to IEEE 802.11 wireless standards, cellular communication, virtual private network (VPN), etc. In one embodiment, communication module310may include multiple wireless radios, each implementing a particular wireless communication scheme allowing the electronic weighing system100to establish wireless communication with diverse devices and/or networks, and further performed simultaneous communications via the multiple radios. In one embodiment, the communication module310may implement wireline communication such as Ethernet to establish wireless communication with diverse devices and/or networks. In another embodiment, the communication module may implement both wireless and wireline communication schemes.

In one embodiment, the application module318comprises hardware, software or combination of hardware and software, for configuring the processing module302to perform data processing and manage system components including the load-cell module320, a currency module324, the user interface module308, the communication module310, and the data storage module306. The processing module302can also be configured to initialize and/or calibrate the load-cell module320using functions in the application module318.

In one embodiment of the invention, the electronics module300further includes ports322(e.g., COM, USB, IEEE 1394, etc.) which facilitate communication with the optional currency module324, the power module108, and the load-cell module320coupled to the electronics module300. The ports320may also facilitate communication between the electronics module300and one or more remote servers (e.g., servers404,FIG. 4).

In one embodiment, the electronics module300interacts with the currency module324, the power module108, the load-cell module322, and the remote server(s)404, according to embodiments of the invention as described further below. In one embodiment, a remote server404may comprise a computer system including hardware processor, memory, storage devices, communication devices, network interfaces, operating system, software applications, application programs, web server modules, etc. In another embodiment, a remote server404may comprise an information technology system including multiple computer systems and database systems.

The load-cell module320comprises a transducer configured for converting force (e.g., a user weight) into a measurable electrical output, as well known in the art. In one example, the load-cell320is universal serial bus (USB) compliant transmitting weight information to a port322of the electronics module300via a cable routed through the frame106, for processing by the processing module302.

In one embodiment, the processing module302is configured such that based on input data received from a user, from the load-cell module320, and from other sources (e.g., Internet402, remote server(s)404, data storage module306, etc.), the processing module302generates output data customized (tailored or personalized) for that user. Example user input data may include user profile information such as sex, height, age, date of birth (DOB), body shape (e.g., thin, stocky, athletic, etc.), activity level, etc. Example output data may include the current weight, ideal weight, body mass index (BMI), suggested caloric intake, and biorhythm cycle values, for the user standing on the platform110. The data storage module306is configured to store various information such as the input data received from the user as well as the output data that is generated by the processing module302. The processing module302also provides input and output interfaces for initializing the load-cell port322, initializing the load-cell module320, and calibration of the same.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the electronics module300tracks user payments using the currency module324. When a user deposits currency to the currency module324, the currency module324then triggers the processing module302to generate the aforementioned output data tailored to the user. In this embodiment the user interface module308may display limited or no advertisements to the user through the GUI326. The electronics module300may also periodically transmit payment information to the remote server(s)404through the Internet402.

In an alternative embodiment, a user may receive his/her tailored (customized or personal) output data generated by the processing module302, without being required to pay currency. In this embodiment, the currency module324is either disabled and/or removed from the electronic weighing system100and the user interface module308may optionally display advertisements to the user through the GUI326for display on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1).

In one embodiment, the electronics module300can also customize advertisements displayed via the GUI326, such as suggesting a specific product or establishment to the user based on information inputted by the user. For example, advertisements may include nutritional supplements, health club memberships, dietary supplements and/or programs, fitness equipment and/or apparel, local fitness activities, etc. In one embodiment of the invention, the products and establishments advertised may geographically reside within close proximity to the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2).

Alternatively, the advertised products and establishments may reside within close proximity to the geographical location of the residence of the user. In one embodiment, advertisement data may reside in the data storage module306of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1), and may be selectively displayed on the GUI326based on input received from the user (e.g., sex, height, date of birth (DOB), body shape, activity level, etc.). Alternatively, advertisement data may reside on the remote server(s)404and be transmitted to the system100(FIG. 1) for display on the GUI326via a connection to the Internet402.

The processing module302, using the application module318, can also dynamically customize advertisements based on user input. For example, if a user identifies his sex as male, advertisements displayed to the user can suggest male-based products and/or establishments. This feature can be implemented regardless of where the advertisement data resides (i.e., data storage module306or remote server(s)404).

In one embodiment, the application module318implements functions that allow authorized personnel to monitor/view the currency collected by the currency module324. The application module318may also allow authorized personnel to monitor information transmitted between the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2) and remote server(s)404through the Internet402.

In one embodiment of the invention, using the Internet402and communication module310, a remote server404can dynamically modify (e.g., install, uninstall, update, upgrade, etc.) functionality of the application module318of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). A remote server404may also modify (e.g., upload, download, overwrite, delete, etc.) data residing in the data storage module306of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1).

In one embodiment of the invention, the communication module310comprises a wireless communication module which utilizes the antenna312to provide wireless connectivity (e.g., radio frequency) to the Internet402. The communication module310may utilize a fixed internet protocol (IP) address from an international Internet service provider (ISP) providing coverage over multiple countries (e.g. Canada, United States, Puerto Rico, etc.). In another embodiment, the communication module310comprises a wired communication module to provide wired connectivity to the Internet402.

FIG. 4illustrates a communication system400including one or more electronic weighing systems (i.e., electronic scales)100, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the system400, each electronic weighing system100may be connected to the Internet402via its communication module310(FIG. 3) wherein the weighing system100is capable of communicating through the Internet402with at least one remote server404. Each weighing system100is also capable of sending information (e.g., electronic mail, text message) to one or more user personal electronic devices (i.e., remote user devices)408such as cell phones, mobile electronic data communication devices, personal computers, etc., utilizing a Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) server406.

Further, one or more remote servers404are capable of communicating through the Internet402with one or more electronic weighing systems100. For example, a remote server404may request that an electronic weighing system100to transfer user-inputted data for analysis and/or marketing. The requesting server includes functionality such as software/hardware for performing such analysis.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an electronic weighing system100captures information for each user of that weighing system100, including, for example, location of the weighing system100, selected language, date, time, sex, date of birth, height, body shape, activity level, weight, overweight/underweight, BMI, biorhythm cycle values, and email address. Requesting user data from the electronic weighing systems100by a remote server404may automatically occur periodically or alternatively authorized personnel may manually initiate such a request. Moreover, user data can be used to offer consumer products to a specific user. At an aggregate level, user data may also help determine a potential customer base for a retail establishment, health center, or any location the electronic weighing system100is utilized.

In another embodiment, information including user data may be transmitted from one or more electronic weighing systems100to one or more remote servers400, automatically periodically, automatically on demand, or based on a command from authorized personnel.

FIG. 5Aillustrates an example screen image500generated by the GUI326(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100for display on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2), according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one example, the image500comprises information such as an advertisement504, instructions506for interacting with the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1), and language options508, etc. In one example, the advertisement504invites a user to check his/her weight. The advertisement504may include multimedia information, images, text, video, audio, or combinations thereof. The instructions506describe how a user may interact with the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2). The language options508provides a list of languages the electronic weighing system100can display.

FIG. 5Billustrates an alternative screen image501generated by the GUI326(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100for display on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2), according to an embodiment of the present invention. In this image501, an advertisement510invites a user to find his/her ideal body weight. Moreover, advertisements such as advertisements510and504(FIG. 5A) may rotate and/or cycle through several images to entice the user to utilize the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2).

FIG. 5Cillustrates an alternative screen image502generated by the GUI326(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100for display on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2), according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown, the screen image502comprises an on-screen keyboard512, and an advertisement514spanning a portion of the image502. The on-screen keyboard512is provided to allow a user to input his/her personal information (e.g., height, age, sex, email address, etc.). Instead of, or in addition to, an on-screen keyboard512, the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2) may include a physical keyboard (not shown) such as a keypad for data entry.

FIG. 5Dillustrates an alternative screen image503generated by the GUI326(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100for display on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2), according to an embodiment of the present invention.FIG. 5Dillustrates a screen image503comprising output data516, an advertisement514, and input controls518for the user. The output data516in this example includes customized information for a user, such as biorhythm data values. The advertisement514spans only a portion of the image503. The input controls518present operation options to the user, such as moving to a next screen or a prior screen, selecting certain information, etc. In the example screen image503, the input controls518identify that the user may discontinue using the electronic weighing system, return to a previous image, or continue to the next screen image.

According to embodiments of the present invention, the information displayed by the GUI326, and interactions with the user via the GUI326(such as receiving input data, control commands, etc.), are provided by the user interface module308which is controlled by the processing module302as configured by the application module318(FIG. 3). According to embodiments of the present invention, all operations of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) are controlled by the processing module302as configured by the application module318(FIG. 3).

FIG. 6illustrates a flowchart of process blocks of a process600for calibrating the load-cell320(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The process600begins with process block602by prompting authorized personnel to remove items from the scale platform110(FIG. 2). The prompt may be presented to an authorized personnel via the GUI326controlled by the user interface module308(FIG. 3), and displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). Process block602further requests a calibration value (e.g. 3 lbs, 5 kg, etc.) from the authorized personnel, the calibration value being equal to the weight of an object that will subsequently be placed on the platform110to calibrate the load-cell module320(FIG. 3). In order to calibrate the load-cell module320(FIG. 3) properly, the weight of the object should be known beforehand. In one embodiment, the authorized personnel provides the calibration value using an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C), while in other embodiments the value may be entered using a physical keyboard attached to the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2). Process block602is complete once the calibration value is provided.

Process block604prompts the authorized personnel to place the object used to calibrate the load-cell module320on the scale platform110(FIG. 2). Process block604is complete when the load-cell320detects pressure (due to the object being placed thereupon) and sends information to the processing module302(FIG. 3).

Process block606displays both the weight entered by the authorized personnel and the weight calculated by the load-cell module322(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). In one embodiment, the authorized personnel may fine tune the displayed calibration settings using input controls518(FIG. 5D). Process block606is complete after displaying the calibration values via the GUI326(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2).

Process block608prompts the authorized personnel with two options: recalibrate the load-cell module320(FIG. 2) or end the calibration session. The authorized personnel may select recalibration to ensure the load-cell module320is properly calibrated by testing the scale platform110(FIG. 2) with another object of known weight. If the authorized personnel chooses to recalibrate the load-cell module320, process block602begins prompting the removal of items from the scale platform110(FIG. 2).

However, if the authorized personnel is satisfied with the calibration results from process block606, the authorized personnel may choose to end the calibration session. In this instance process block608is complete and process block610stores the calibration information to the data storage module306(FIG. 3). After storing the calibration information to the data storage module306(FIG. 3), the process600ends. In one embodiment of the invention, the process600is implemented by the processing module308as configured by the application module318(FIG. 3).

FIG. 7illustrates a flowchart of process blocks of a process700for electronically weighing a user, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The process700begins with process block702which displays information to potential users, as discussed above. Process block702presents animations and/or animated advertisements504(FIG. 5A) to potential users via the GUI326(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). Process block702is complete when a user selects his/her desired language508(FIG. 5B).

In one embodiment of the invention, the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2) is not currency-based wherein when process block702is completed process block708(exemplified by the dashed line inFIG. 7) is initiated. In another embodiment of the invention, the electronic weighing system100is currency-based as represented by process blocks704-706. Process block704comprises prompting the user for currency payment for using the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Payment may be provided by, for example, currency (e.g., banknotes or coins), ATM charge card, credit card, wire transfer, electronic fund transfer (EFT), internet money transfer, etc. If the user provides the requisite currency, process block704signals the currency module324(FIG. 3) to reflect the same.

Alternatively, payment may be provided in the form of a charge assessed to the user personal electronic device408(e.g. cellular telephone;FIG. 4). In this scenario, the user may send a text message with a specific set of characters to a telephone number presented on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). After receiving payment from the user, process block704is complete, the currency module324(FIG. 3) is updated by process block706, and process block708begins gathering user personal information.

Specifically, process block708prompts the user for personal information including, for example, gender, height, date of birth (DOB), build type (e.g., small, medium, large), and user activity level (e.g., inert, slow, active). In one embodiment, the user provides his/her information utilizing an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C) displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the user uses a physical keyboard attached to the frame106of the electronic weighing system100to input information (FIG. 2). Process block708is complete after receiving all of the user personal information.

Process block710calculates the user weight using the load-cell module320in the scale platform110(FIG. 2). The user, by standing on the scale platform110, exerts a force upon the scale platform110which in turn exerts a force upon the load-cell module320(FIG. 2) residing therein. The load-cell module320converts the force into a measurable electrical output and sends the output to the electronics module300(FIG. 3) for processing. The processing module302(FIG. 3) converts the electrical output into a value (weight) easily understood by the user (e.g., pounds, kilograms, etc.). Process block710is complete after calculating the user weight.

Based on the user input data and calculated weight, process block712calculates the user Body Mass Index (BMI) value. In one embodiment of the present invention, process block712further calculates the user ideal weight using a formula (e.g., formula based on Build Study, 1979, compiled by the Society of Actuaries and Association of Life Insurance Medical Directors of http://www.bcbst.com/mpmanual/!SSL!/WebHelp/HW.htm). Moreover, process block712calculates the user suggested caloric intake utilizing the same formulae. Finally, process block712calculates the user biorhythm cycle values based on his/her date of birth (DOB) provided in process block708. Process block712concludes after calculating the user results. Examples of the above-mentioned calculations/formulas are provided in Table 1, further below. Other calculations/formulas may also be utilized.

Process block714prompts the user via the GUI326(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2) about how the user would like to receive his/her personalized results. One option is to display the user personalized results (customized results) immediately on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2) via the GUI326(FIG. 3). Another option is to send the user personalized results to a user personal electronic device408(e.g., by electronic mail, cellular telephone) for later viewing (FIG. 4).

If the user chooses to immediately receive his/her personalized results, process block716displays the user results (personalized results) via the GUI326(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). In one embodiment, user results are displayed in a single image on the touch-screen LCD device104. In an alternative embodiment, each user result is displayed alone and the user may view each user result before continuing to the next result using input controls518(FIG. 5D). Process block716is complete after displaying the user results.

If the user chose to have his/her personalized results sent to a personal electronic device408(FIG. 4), process block718prompts the user for contact information including: electronic mail (email) address, telephone number, and mailing address. In one embodiment, the user provides his/her contact information utilizing an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C) displayed via the GUI326(FIG. 3) on the touch-screen LCD104(FIG. 2). The user may be prompted to provide one unit of information at a time, or alternatively the user may be prompted to enter all the requested contact information before proceeding. In an alternative embodiment, the user uses a physical keyboard attached to the electronic weighing system100to input his/her contact information. Process block718is complete after receiving the user contact information.

In one embodiment, process block720delivers the user results to the provided email address via an SMTP server406(FIG. 4). In another embodiment, the electronic weighting system100provides the user personalized information to the user in multiple ways, including by displaying on the GUI326(FIG. 3), by email, by text message, etc., as may be desired by the user.

In one embodiment of the present invention, for each user of the weighing scale100, the process block722stores the user personal and contact information along with the user results in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) residing in the electronics module300(FIG. 3) of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Additionally, process block722may store data pertaining to the electronic weighing system100including, for example, date of use, time of use, duration of user experience, number of advertisements displayed to the user, etc. Alternatively, process block722may store the available user personal information, contact information, user personalized results, and system data in a remote server(s)404connected to the electronic weighing system100through the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block724presents an informational message, such as a greeting message, to the user via the GUI326(FIG. 3) and displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 2). The thank you message is designed to inform the user that the electronic weighing system100has finished providing service thereto. After thanking the user, process block724is complete and the process700ends. Alternatively, after completion of process block724, the process700returns to process block702and presents animations and/or animated advertisements504(FIG. 5B) to entice additional users. In one embodiment of the invention, the process700is implemented by the processing module308as configured by the application module318(FIG. 3).

In another embodiment of the invention, the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) allows the user to utilize a personal electronic device408(FIG. 4), such as smart phone, to establish a direct wireless connection (e.g., Bluetooth, IEEE 802.11 wireless connection, etc.) with the electronic weighing system100for interacting with the electronic weighing system100, including receiving the user personalized results. In another embodiment, the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) allows the user to utilize a personal electronic device408(FIG. 4), such as smart phone, to establish a direct wired connection (e.g., via a USB cable).

FIG. 8illustrates a flowchart of process blocks of a process800for interaction between a remote server404and one or more electronic weighing systems100via a communication link, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment of the invention, the process800may be performed by a controller module404C in a remote server404(FIG. 4) in conjunction with an electronic weighing system100(FIG. 40).

In one embodiment of the invention, prior to process block802, a remote server404(FIG. 4) requests information such as user data (e.g., personal information, contact information, calculated user results, etc.) from a weighing systems100. In one embodiment, a remote server404requests such information from a plurality of electronic weighing systems100(FIG. 4).

Such a request may be sent after a specific period of time (e.g., 1 hour, day, week, month, etc.) and/or the electronic weighing system100may submit the user data automatically after a specific period of time, after a specific number of transactions, or after a specific number of advertisements have been displayed. Moreover, the electronic weighing system100may submit user data immediately upon receiving the same from a user. Process block802is complete after receiving user data.

According to process block804, storing the received user data may occur locally in a storage module within the remote server404(FIG. 4) and/or in a data base404D. The remote server may store the user data in a network attached storage (NAS), storage area network (SAN), or a third-party hosted storage facility.

After process block804concludes, in an advertisement-based version of a weighing system100, process block806generates customized advertisements based on the stored user data. In process block806, custom advertisements may be generated with particular care to, for example, user sex, age, weight, body shape, and/or physical activity level. Further, customized advertisements may take into account the electronic weighing system100location, date, time, etc. Further, customized advertisements may take into account details from a plurality of user data and/or data from a plurality of electronic weighing systems100.

In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, customized advertisements are generated by an electronic weighing system100itself and, as such, process blocks806and808are optional. Process block808is complete after sending the custom advertisements to the electronic weighing system100(e.g., via the Internet402FIG. 4).

Process block810determines whether the application module318(FIG. 3) in an electronics module300(FIG. 3) of an electronic weighing system100requires updating. This decision may take into account the period of time since a previous update (e.g., weeks, months, etc.). The decision may also take into account whether a new update was provided to the remote server(s)404(FIG. 4). Furthermore, authorized personnel may determine the need for an update.

If a decision is made to update an electronic weighing system100, process block812begins waiting for a last update status from the electronic weighing system100. However if the decision is made to forego updating the electronic weighing system100, process block818determines whether to wait for additional user data or to end.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a request for update status is made to the electronic weighing system100prior to process block812. The requests may be sent after a specific period of time (e.g., 1 hour, day, week, month, etc.); after a decision to update is made pursuant to process block818, or alternatively the electronic weighing system100may submit its update status after a specific period of time, number of transactions, etc. Process block812is complete after receiving the update status from the electronic weighing system100.

Process block814compares the latest update status received from the electronic weighing system100with the latest update residing on the remote server(s)404(FIG. 4). In one example, where the electronic weighing system100update status matches the update on the remote server, then the application module318in the electronics module300(FIG. 3) residing on the electronic weighing system100is current and process block814ends. However, if the electronic weighing system100update status fails to match the update status on the remote server(s)404(FIG. 4), process block816updates the on the electronic weighing system100.

According to process block816, in one embodiment of the present invention, the application module318in the electronics module300(FIG. 3) residing on the electronic weighing system100is immediately updated by the remote server(s)404(FIG. 4). Alternatively, the remote server404may update the application module318in the electronics module300(FIG. 3) residing on the electronic weighing system100at a predetermined time (e.g., after business hours), or a specific day of the week (e.g., Sunday). Process block816is complete after the update is transmitted through the Internet402(FIG. 4) to the electronic weighing system100.

Process block818determines whether to wait for subsequent user data, or to end the process800. The decision may take into account the current time and likelihood of receiving additional user data (e.g., time of day, day of week, data received over a recent period of time, etc.). In one embodiment process block818always returns to process block802and awaits further user data.

In another embodiment of the invention, a remoter server404transmits the personalized user data generated by, and received from, a weighing system100to destinations indicated by the user. Examples of such destinations include email address of the user, a personal device of the user, text message address of the user, etc. In this embodiment, the weighing system100need not (but may) transmit the personalized user data to the user and may simply display the personalized user data in the GUI326on the display104.

FIG. 9illustrates a flowchart of process blocks of a process900for electronically weighing a user, according to another embodiment of the present invention. The process900illustrates operational scenarios for a weighting system100. In one implementation, process block902comprises displaying multimedia information such as looping animation on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3).

Example animations displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3) according to process block902are illustrated inFIGS. 5A-5B. The animation according to process block902may comprise the language options508(FIG. 5A) which provides a list of languages the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2) can display. Process block902receives a language selected by the user from the list of languages displayed in the language option508(FIG. 5B). Process block902further stores the user selected language, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3).

Process block904comprises displaying a welcome screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). Process block904further prompts the user for currency payment for using the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). In an alternative embodiment of the invention where the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 2) is not currency-based, process block904is optional.

Process block906comprises displaying a gender screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). Process block906prompts a user to select his/her gender from the displayed options: male or female. Alternatively, process block906may prompt a user to enter his/her gender, for example, by typing the letter “M” for male or the letter “F” for female utilizing an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C). Process block906stores the gender information received from a user, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block906stores the user gender information in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block908comprises displaying a height screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block908displays a plurality of heights (e.g., 55 inches, 56 inches, 5 ft and 1 inch, 5 ft and 2 inches, etc.) and prompts a user to select the value matching his/her height. Alternatively, process block908may display a drop-down list and prompt a user to select a value matching his/her height. In another embodiment, process block908prompts a user to enter his/her height, for example, utilizing an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C). Process block908stores the height information received from the user, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block908stores the user height information in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block910comprises displaying a date of birth (DOB) screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block910prompts a user to select from drop-down lists the month, day, and year he/she was born. Alternatively, process block910may prompt a user to enter his/her date of birth (e.g., mm/dd/yy, dd/mm/yyyy, yyyy/mm/dd, etc.) using, for example, the on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C). Process block910receives the date of birth for a user and stores the same, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block910stores the user date of birth information in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block912comprises displaying a body shape screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block912prompts a user to select, from a drop-down list, a body shape that best describes the user (e.g., small, medium, large, thing, stocky, athletic, etc.). Process block912stores the body shape information received from the user, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block912stores the user body shape information in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block914comprises displaying an activity screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block914prompts a user to select, from a drop-down list, and activity level that best describes the user (e.g., low, medium, high, etc.). Process block914stores the user activity level information, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block914stores the user activity level information in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block914further comprises calculating the user weight using the load-cell module320in the scale platform110(FIG. 2). The user, by standing on the scale platform110, exerts a force upon the scale platform110which in turn exerts a force upon the load-cell module320(FIG. 2) residing therein. The load-cell module320(FIG. 1) converts the force into a measurable electrical output (e.g., user weight). Process block914obtains the user weight from the load-cell module320and stores the same, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block914stores the user weight in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block916comprises displaying a confirmation screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block916displays all information received and/or obtained from a user (process blocks906-914) and prompts the user to confirm the information is accurate. In one embodiment, the user may utilize an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C) or input controls518(FIG. 5D) to confirm or deny the accuracy of the displayed information.

Process block918comprises displaying a wait message on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment of the invention, process block918displays the wait message after a user confirms his/her inputted personal information (process block916) and before displaying user personal results (process blocks922-926).

Process block920comprises displaying an electronic mail (email) screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). In one embodiment, process block920prompts a user to enter his/her electronic mail (email) address utilizing an on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C). Alternatively, a user may enter his/her electronic mail (email) address using a physical keyboard attached to the L-shaped frame106of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Process block920stores the user electronic mail (email) address, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block920stores the user electronic mail (email) address in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block920further comprises calculating user personalized results including the user Body Mass Index (BMI) value; the user ideal weight using a formula derived from the Society of Actuaries and Association of Life Insurance Medical Directors of America Build Study; the user suggested caloric intake; and the user biorhythm cycle values based on his/her date of birth (DOB). Process block stores the user personalized results, for example, in the data storage module306(FIG. 3) of the electronics module300residing in the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). Alternatively, process block920stores the user personalized results in a remote server404via a connection to the Internet402(FIG. 4).

Process block922comprises displaying a first results screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). The first results screen comprises weight of a user calculated in process block914and both the user ideal weight and suggested caloric intake calculated in process block920. Process block922may display the first results screen for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). Alternatively, process block922may display the first results screen until a user selects otherwise using input controls518(FIG. 5D) displayed by the GUI326(FIG. 3).

Process block924comprises displaying a second results screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). The second results screen comprises a Body Mass Index (BMI) of a user as calculated in process block920. Process block924may display the second results screen for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). Alternatively, process block924may display the second results screen until a user selects otherwise using input controls518(FIG. 5D) displayed by the GUI326(FIG. 3).

Process block926comprises displaying a third results screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). The third results screen comprises user biorhythm cycle values calculated in process block920as well as user lucky numbers derived from the user biorhythm cycle values. Process block926may display the third results screen for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). Alternatively, process block926may display the third results screen until a user selects otherwise using input controls518(FIG. 5D) displayed by the GUI326(FIG. 3).

Process block928comprises displaying a thank you screen on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). The thank you screen is designed to inform the user that the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) has finished providing service thereto. Process block928may display the thank you screen for a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 seconds, 1 minute, etc.). Alternatively, process block928may display the thank you screen until a user selects otherwise using input controls518(FIG. 5D) displayed by the GUI326(FIG. 3).

Process block930comprises testing for events indicating a user no longer wishes to receive personalized results from the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). In one embodiment, process block930periodically (e.g., every 15 seconds, 30 seconds, etc.) requests user weight from the load-cell module320residing in the scale platform110of the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1). If the load-cell module320returns a user weight below a minimum threshold, process block930may conclude that a user stepped off the scale platform110(FIG. 1). In one embodiment, the minimum threshold user weigh may be set and/or modified by authorized personnel.

Process block930further calculates an elapsed time since receiving information and/or a command from a user (using an on-screen keyboard512,FIG. 5C). If the elapsed time exceeds a maximum threshold, process block930may conclude that a user abandoned his/her request for personalized results. In one embodiment, the maximum threshold of elapsed time may be set and/or modified by authorized personnel.

Process block930further detects whether a user terminates his/her request for personalized results. In one embodiment of the invention, a user may terminate his/her request for personalized results by pressing a specific button on the on-screen keyboard512(FIG. 5C) displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). Alternatively, a user may terminate his/her request by pressing a specific input control518(FIG. 5D) displayed on the touch-screen LCD device104(FIG. 1) using the GUI326(FIG. 3). Upon detecting that a user terminated his/her request for personalized results, process900may end or loop back for a next user.

In one embodiment, the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) may reside in high foot-trafficked locations such as retail shopping centers, health club facilities, grocery stores, etc. The electronic weighing system100is modular by design with no permanent installation requirements.

FIG. 10illustrates a computer system1000which may perform the processes600calibrating the load-cell (FIG. 6), the process700electronically weighing a user (FIG. 7), the process800managing the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 8), and/or the process900for electronically weighing a user (FIG. 9), according to an embodiment of the present invention. The computer system1000comprises a processor1008, an input device1006coupled to the processor1008, an output device1010coupled to the processor1008, and memory devices1002and1012each coupled to the processor1008. The input device1006may be, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a keypad, a touch screen, a voice recognition device, a sensor, a network interface card (NIC), a Voice/video over Internet Protocol (VOIP) adapter, a wireless adapter, a telephone adapter, a dedicated circuit adapter, etc. The output device1010may be, for example, a printer, a plotter, a computer screen, a magnetic tape, a removable hard disk, a floppy disk, a NIC, a VOIP adapter, a wireless adapter, a telephone adapter, a dedicated circuit adapter, an audio and/or visual signal generator, a light emitting diode (LED), etc.

The memory devices1002and1012may comprise a cache, a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, a floppy disk, a magnetic tape, an optical storage such as a compact disc (CD) or a digital video disc (DVD), network attached storage (NAS), storage area network (SAN), etc. The memory device1012includes a computer code1014which is a computer program that comprises computer-executable instructions. The computer code1014includes, for example, an algorithm used for calibrating the load-cell320(FIG. 3), electronically weighing a user, and managing the electronic weighing system100(FIG. 1) according to the present invention. The processor1008executes the computer code1014. The memory device1002includes input data1004. The input data1004includes input required by the computer code1014. The output device1010displays output from the computer code1014. Either or both memory devices1002and1012(or one or more additional memory devices not shown inFIG. 10) may be used as a computer usable medium (or a computer readable medium or a program storage device) having a computer readable program embodied therein and/or having other data stored therein, wherein the computer readable program comprises the computer code1014. Generally, a computer program product (or, alternatively, an article of manufacture) of the computer system1000may comprise the computer usable medium (or program storage device).

WhileFIG. 10shows the computer system1000as a particular configuration of hardware and software, any configuration of hardware and software, as would be known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, may be utilized for the purposes stated supra in conjunction with the particular computer system1000ofFIG. 10. For example, the memory devices1002and1012may be portions of a single memory device rather than separate memory devices.

FIG. 11illustrates a high level block diagram showing an information processing system1100useful for implementing one embodiment of the present invention. The system1100includes one or more processors, such as processor1102. The processor1102is connected to a communication infrastructure1104(e.g., a communications bus, cross-over bar, or network).

The computer system can include a display interface1106that forwards graphics, text, and other data from the communication infrastructure1104(or from a frame buffer not shown) for display on a display unit1108. The computer system also includes a main memory1110, preferably random access memory (RAM), and may also include a secondary memory1112. The secondary memory1112may include, for example, a hard disk drive1114and/or a removable storage drive1116, representing, for example, a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, or an optical disk drive. The removable storage drive1116reads from and/or writes to a removable storage unit1118in a manner well known to those having ordinary skill in the art. Removable storage unit1118represents, for example, a floppy disk, a compact disc, a magnetic tape, or an optical disk, etc. which is read by and written to by removable storage drive1116. As will be appreciated, the removable storage unit1118includes a computer readable medium having stored therein computer software and/or data.

In alternative embodiments, the secondary memory1112may include other similar means for allowing computer programs or other instructions to be loaded into the computer system. Such means may include, for example, a removable storage unit1120and an interface1122. Examples of such means may include a program package and package interface (such as that found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM, or PROM) and associated socket, and other removable storage units1120and interfaces1122which allow software and data to be transferred from the removable storage unit1120to the computer system.

The computer system may also include a communications interface1124. Communications interface1124allows software and data to be transferred between the computer system and external devices. Examples of communications interface1124may include a modem, a network interface (such as an Ethernet card), a communications port, or a PCMCIA slot and card, etc. Software and data transferred via communications interface1124are in the form of signals which may be, for example, electronic, electromagnetic, optical, or other signals capable of being received by communications interface1124. These signals are provided to communications interface1124via a communications path (i.e., channel)1126. This communications path1126carries signals and may be implemented using wire or cable, fiber optics, a phone line, a cellular phone link, a radio frequency (RF) link, and/or other communications channels.

In this document, the terms “computer program medium,” “computer usable medium,” and “computer readable medium” are used to generally refer to media such as main memory1110and secondary memory1112, removable storage drive1116, and a hard disk installed in hard disk drive1114.

Computer programs (also called computer control logic) are stored in main memory1110and/or secondary memory1112. Computer programs may also be received via communications interface1124. Such computer programs, when run, enable the computer system to perform the features of the present invention as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when run, enable the processor1102to perform the features of the computer system. Accordingly, such computer programs represent controllers of the computer system.

Table 1 illustrates pseudo code and formulas that may be utilized to calculate a user suggested weight and caloric intake are as follows:

The present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof; however, other versions are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.

As is known to those skilled in the art, the aforementioned example architectures described above, according to the present invention, can be implemented in many ways, such as program instructions for execution by a hardware processor, as software modules, microcode, as computer program product on computer readable media, as logic circuits, as application specific integrated circuits, as firmware, as consumer electronic devices, etc., in wireless devices, in wireless transmitters/receivers, in wireless networks, etc. Further, embodiments of the invention can take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment or an embodiment containing both hardware and software elements.

The terms “computer program medium,” “computer usable medium,” “computer readable medium”, and “computer program product,” are used to generally refer to media such as main memory, secondary memory, removable storage drive, a hard disk installed in hard disk drive, and signals. These computer program products are means for providing software to the computer system. The computer readable medium allows the computer system to read data, instructions, messages or message packets, and other computer readable information from the computer readable medium. The computer readable medium, for example, may include non-volatile memory, such as a floppy disk, ROM, flash memory, disk drive memory, a CD-ROM, and other permanent storage. It is useful, for example, for transporting information, such as data and computer instructions, between computer systems. Furthermore, the computer readable medium may comprise computer readable information in a transitory state medium such as a network link and/or a network interface, including a wired network or a wireless network, that allows a computer to read such computer readable information. Computer programs (also called computer control logic) are stored in main memory and/or secondary memory. Computer programs may also be received via a communications interface. Such computer programs, when executed, enable the computer system to perform the features of the present invention as discussed herein. In particular, the computer programs, when executed, enable the multi-core processor to perform the features of the computer system. Accordingly, such computer programs represent controllers of the computer system. The computer program instructions may also be stored in a computer readable medium that can direct a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer readable medium produce an article of manufacture including instructions which implement the function/act specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.