Remotivate

Remotivate is a remote exercise device that tracks users as they perform their favorite workouts. Users in different locations can compete, collaborate, and share exercise experiences.

Hardware & Use

Remotivate uses an Arduino Pro Mini to power the device and connects to a computer via discord to communicate with friends and competitors. In discord, one can send messages to friends asking to exercise together or informing them of a completed routine. This notification lights up the LEDs on the competitor’s device, which they must respond to by pressing the device’s white button.

An accelerometer tracks the orientation and speed of the device throughout space. In individual & competition mode, as a user exercises, the Arduino tracks movement repetitions via the LEDs. A buzzer rings at the beginning and end of the exercise. At activity completion, the device notifies other friends of the performed workout routine. In collaborative mode, users take turns performing an exercise. The device lights up to inform users when it is their turn.

Remotivate was the final individual product for MIT’s Design Studio: Advanced Interactions (4.044) during Spring 2021.

Design

Leather grips

Matte black plastic shell

LEDs for exercise tracking

Bluetooth enabled to collaborate with friends via discord

Loop for modular resistance band attachment

Button to start tracking and to send & acknowledge notifications

Buzzer to indicate exercise start & end

Mechanical hardware is made from 2D materials (plywood, plastic, leather), all of which can be easily laser cut and assembled

 Construction