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Jean-Frederic Gauvin
By Jean-Frederic Gauvin on January 28, 2022

Smart Gym with Multitracker MT111

When D-Fetch needed multi-sensors to create a smart gym concept, they turned to Meshtech.

D-Fetch is delivering a unique business optimization platform built specifically for fitness club operators. They needed an all-in-one sensor that has the capability to monitor a large set of parameters. That is when Meshtech introduced the MultiTracker MT 111.

Digitalization and IoT have opened new business model possibilities, D-Fetch saw an opportunity where Fitness center owners and managers could have a machine usage overview for each training center. Most of the decisions made regarding the usage are based on manual reporting and are very fragmented. it is only a modern machine that has the possibility to report its usage. A system that could be placed on any equipment would be a perfect match.

Challenge finding the right solution

D-Fetch needed to have a simple solution that would combine several sensors and deliver the data in a comprehensive form. Most sensors supplier offers a cloud-based subscription with an API, D-Fetch was looking for a solution that could deliver the data in a standard way and avoid having to connect their platform to another cloud database.

Step 1 . Define

When we started the project, it was important for D-Fetch that the same sensor could be used for any fitness equipment. Running mil or bicycle are equipment that generates vibration when in use, while weight lifting gears just change position.

After taking into consideration all the sensor needs that D-Fetch had for monitoring gym assets, we agreed upon developing a multi-sensor that combines :

      • Motion configurable
      • Vibration detection
      • Temperature and humidity
      • Atmospheric pressure

And to make it more user friendly, we have added:

      • Green and Red LED
      • Button
      • Magnet sensor

The possibility to have feedback to the sensor makes it more user-friendly and easier to operate.

And it was also a requirement that the sensor should be easy to mount and also to replace, therefore we made a socket that can be attached with tape or screw and the sensor is easily clipped to stay in place.

 

Step 2. Capture

With the project definition in hand and a very good understanding of what was needed to achieve. Meshtech modified the MultiTracker MT 111 to make it the perfect fit for the operation and adapted to D-Fetch needs. The Multi-sensor is able to capture all the requested parameters and the same device is used for all the applications.

Using Bluetooth Low energy sensors the battery lifetime is not a challenge as we deliver a solution that has a batterie lifecycle of 5 years with a data update every 3 seconds. The resolution of the update is high and thus avoids any critical data loss.

A dedicated Bluetooth mesh network is installed at every site where coverage requirements define the number of Airmesh repeaters needed. Data, collected from every place in the facility, are delivered to the D-Fetch cloud application through the MT MeshConnect 2011 gateway. The mesh technology allows easy network expansion if additional coverage is required.  Using an MQTT integration allows easy deployment on a multi-site system.

3. Scale

With the ambition of being deployed internationally, we make sure that the solution can be used all over the world. This can be achieved for D-Fetch for that we use the standard BLE - Bluetooth Low Energy - That is approved as a worldwide standard for wireless infrastructure.

D-Fetch is deploying the solutions on many sites, and the ease of connectivity made the installation and upgrade easy. D-Fetch is using the over-the-air management system from Meshtech to give a detailed view of the state of every single sensor at the Club level. As our management system is keeping an eye on every single sensor, D-Fetch can focus on what matters most: Deliver a comprehensive overview of the Gym facility usage to both user and owner.

Published by Jean-Frederic Gauvin January 28, 2022
Jean-Frederic Gauvin