Patent attributes
A sensing base for an adjustable free weight may include a cradle, and a sensing assembly, which includes a plurality of sensors and mechanical components (e.g., pivoting levers), each associated with a respective plate well that accommodates a weight plate of the adjustable free weight such that each mechanical component actuates the state of a respective sensor upon placement or removal of the weight in a plate well. Sensor signals reflecting the states of the sensors are communicated, via a circuit, a processor to determine the weight selection of the adjustable free weight when removed from the base. The sensing assembly may be implemented using individual sensors of a variety of different types such as hall effect sensors, optical interrupt sensors, IR optical sensors, and the like. The base may be configured to automatically communicate the determined weight to an external computing device to facilitate activity tracking and/or fitness coaching.