New patent application published for: VOICE-ACTIVATED AUTOMATED SPOTTING AND WEIGHT-LIFTING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM

A voice-activated automated spotting system includes a spotting unit for free-weight exercise stations that includes a stand having a floor-supported base and an upright column. The column carries a linear rack with evenly spaced rack teeth. A carriage assembly rides on the column and supports a J-shaped hook sized to cradle a barbell sleeve. The carriage assembly houses a pinion gear engaged with the rack teeth and an electric motor that turns the pinion to move the hook along the column. A controller mounted on the stand contains a processor, non-volatile memory, and a voice-assist module. The controller energizes the motor in response to a predetermined spoken command so the hook can lift the bar off the user or return it to a start height. The architecture permits hands-free, incremental assistance and provides a foundation for additional features such as load sensing, wireless synchronization between multiple units, and battery-powered portability.