Abstract: Method of using a snowboard training apparatus for transferring the feel of toe side and heel side of a snowboard from an instructor to a snowboard learner is disclosed. The training apparatus includes a training rod having a first and second end. The first end and second end of the training rod can be adapted to be supported by a snowboarder's leg, snowboarder's boot, snowboard's bindings or a snowboard itself. The training apparatus can also include a second training rod.

Abstract: The systems and methods taught herein are generally directed to a dynamic point referencing of an audiovisual performance for an accurate and precise selection and controlled cycling of portions of the performance. The dynamic point referencing can be used by a learning artist, for example, in analyzing or performing a portion of the work through an accurate and precise digital audio/video instructional method having the controlled cycling feature. Such systems and methods will be appreciated, for example, by musicians, dancers, and other enthusiasts of the performing arts.

Abstract: The present invention is intended to provide a body motion grading system that allows the grading less likely to be affected by the difference among the builds of target persons subjected to grading. The present invention provides body motion grading system (1) including body position information acquisition unit (11) configured to acquire body position information of a target person subjected to grading in time series, body part recognition unit (12) configured to recognize a position of each part in the acquired body position information in time series and relatively recognize positions of body parts with reference to a certain body part, body motion grading unit (13) configured to conduct grading by comparing a position of a body part recognized by the body part recognition unit with a preliminarily prepared comparison condition in time series, and grading result display unit (14) configured to display a grading result.

Abstract: The systems and methods taught herein are generally directed to a dynamic point referencing of an audiovisual performance for an accurate and precise selection and controlled cycling of portions of the performance. The dynamic point referencing can be used by a learning artist, for example, in analyzing or performing a portion of the work through an accurate and precise digital audio/video instructional method having the controlled cycling feature. Such systems and methods will be appreciated, for example, by musicians, dancers, and other enthusiasts of the performing arts.

Abstract: The present invention teaches a trampoline gaming system. According to one example, the present invention includes a system for projecting images onto a trampoline surface and a processing system which awards points based on how players interact with the projected images.

Abstract: The systems and methods taught herein are generally directed to a dynamic point referencing of an audiovisual performance for an accurate and precise selection and controlled cycling of portions of the performance. The dynamic point referencing can be used by a learning artist, for example, in analyzing or performing a portion of the work through an accurate and precise digital audio/video instructional method having the controlled cycling feature. Such systems and methods will be appreciated, for example, by musicians, dancers, and other enthusiasts of the performing arts.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for a dynamic user interface for interacting with computer applications by a user physically manipulating interactive floor tiles. The interactive floor tiles may be networked, and may use a communication bus 204 within the network for communicating the connection status of tiles in the network and/or any user input received by one or more tiles in the network. The tile network module may communicate data to a computer via a data collection module. The data collection module may be internal or external to the computer, and may be used to translate data from one communication format to another, for example, from RS485 framework to RS232 framework. The interactive floor tiles may be configured into various shapes at any time by a user, and the changes to the tiles may be mapped to the computer application screen in real-time.

Abstract: A computer-readable recording medium stores therein an evaluation program, the evaluation program causing a computer to execute a process including, acquiring, from a plurality of captured images obtained by sequential image capturing, a motion of a person taking a beat in the plurality of captured images, or a timing at which the person takes the beat; and outputting an evaluation on a rhythm of the motion of the person based on a rhythm indicated by the acquired motion or the acquired timing.

Abstract: The systems and methods taught herein are generally directed to a dynamic point referencing of an audiovisual performance for an accurate and precise selection and controlled cycling of portions of the performance. The dynamic point referencing can be used by a learning artist, for example, in analyzing or performing a portion of the work through an accurate and precise digital audio/video instructional method having the controlled cycling feature. Such systems and methods will be appreciated, for example, by musicians, dancers, and other enthusiasts of the performing arts.

Abstract: Example techniques are provided that may be implemented, at least in part, at a mobile device to determine certain parameters corresponding to movement of an object that is co-located with the mobile device and at least one other mobile device. In an example implementation, a mobile device may obtain measurements corresponding to sensors of a plurality of mobile devices co-located on an object, and determine at least one of an estimated speed of the object, an estimated heading of the object, or an estimated heading rate of the object based, at least in part, on all or a selected subset of the sensor measurements which are accepted for use.

Abstract: A system, equipment and process to guide a user in the experience of rhythmic exercise. Playback of an audio signal, such as a musical phrase, that has known rhythmic structure (e.g., beat pattern) is accompanied, by non-audio sensory cues such as a light signal or tactical signal (vibration) to mark rhythmic events in the audio playback (such as the beginning and end of playback and/or audio pulses (beats). In addition, equipment is provided to guide the user in performing a GDM (goal directed movement) sequence that is selected to be performed in synch with the rhythm of the audio signal. The user's motion is detected and compared to desired GDM in the selected sequence and also compared to the rhythm of the audio signal. Sensory cues are provided to guide the user in performing the GDM sequence rhythmically. The system may be implemented in cardio fitness equipment including treadmill, AMT and elliptical type exercise equipment.

Abstract: An interactive electronic exercise software program and mobile electronic device application with audible feedback resides in a human facsimile apparatus used as a dance partner during aerobic exercises. The interactive software program creates the illusion of working out with a friend, companion or personal trainer, providing interactive visual and auditory stimulus designed to make the workout enjoyable so that the user will continue to work out on a regular basis. The interactive software program is also designed to motivate the user to exercise and to continue exercising for an optimal duration. The interactive software program monitors the user's workout and provides audible feedback to the user regarding workout practices and results, and may respond to user input, such as speech or keypad entry, or may be equipped with sensors to provide feedback on the workout itself.

Abstract: Techniques for use with a game console and a camera system, the techniques include providing a first prompt to a first player to create and perform a dance move, receiving at the game console information from the camera system reflecting a position of the first player in response to the first prompt, generating, using the game console, a target frame using the received information relating to the first player, providing, using the audiovisual system connected to the game console, a second prompt to a second player to perform the dance move created by the first player, receiving at the game console information from the camera system reflecting a position of the second player in response to the second prompt, generating, using the game console, an input frame using the information relating to the second player, and comparing the input frame to the target frame to determine a comparison value.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for choreographing movement of individuals for a performance event are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method includes providing a performance event configuration having a plurality of location indicators to assist in the placing or movement of individuals conducting a performance event. The method also includes providing each individual with a wireless audio unit and transmitting body movement instruction signals to the audio units of each individual. In this embodiment, the wireless audio unit may be a wireless, cellular, or mobile telephone. The audio units are configured to receive the signals and to play audio directions for each individual that correspond to choreographed and coordinated body movements directly the individuals at, towards or away from the location indicators to carry out the performance event.

Abstract: A glove-based key entry apparatus and method for are provided. The apparatus includes at least one pair of gloves, a plurality of sensors disposed on a first side of the at least a pair of gloves, and at least two screens disposed on each side of the gloves, the second side of the at least one glove being opposite to the first side of the at least one glove.

Abstract: A data processor maintains an electronic exercise program, which defines exercise sessions defining exercise sets for a subject on one or more exercise apparatuses. The data processor makes a selection (306) between an exercise set (320) and a performance test (308). If a set is selected, instructions relating to the set are given. Each repetition is detected, a risk of injury is assessed, and if a threshold is exceeded, instructions for reducing likelihood for injury are given. Repetitions are counted until detection of a last repetition in the set (410). Feedback is given after the last repetition. If a performance test (308) is selected, instructions relating to the test are given. Subject's performance is monitored until termination of the test. After the test, the exercise program (310) is adapted based on the monitored performance data.

Abstract: A manipulator device has an arm portion and a hand portion The hand portion includes one or more finger portions that manipulate a target object. Each finger portion includes a slip sensor and multiple contact sensors, with at least one contact sensor at a position proximate to the slip sensor and at least another contact sensor at a position remote from the slip sensor. When the contact sensors at the positions remote from the slip sensor detect contact of the target object and the contact sensors arranged at the positions proximate to the slip sensors do not detect contact, a position of the finger portion is moved by a distance corresponding to the distance between the contact sensors detecting contact of the target object and the contact sensors arranged at the positions proximate to the slip such that a detecting position of the slip sensor is coincident with a position of the target object.

Abstract: The systems and methods taught herein are generally directed to a dynamic point referencing of an audiovisual performance for an accurate and precise selection and controlled cycling of portions of the performance. The dynamic point referencing can be used by a learning artist, for example, in analyzing or performing a portion of the work through an accurate and precise digital audio/video instructional method having the controlled cycling feature. Such systems and methods will be appreciated, for example, by musicians, dancers, and other enthusiasts of the performing arts.

Abstract: A dance shoe dons an accessory that provides a visual indication of the foot position of a dancer. The accessory includes an ornamental device that is releasably attachable to the side wall of the dance shoe using magnetic attraction. A method for instructing dance students comprises the step of providing the accessory on a dance shoe worn by the dance student. Instructions are called out for the dance student to show the ornamental device in accordance with a dance position. The position of the ornamental device, and thus the position of the dance student's feet, is observed. The dance student is instructed to adjust the dance student's feet if improperly positioned, as indicated by the ornamental device. A kit comprises packaging, an accessory including magnetically responsive elements and magnets within the packaging, and instructions for attaching the accessory to dance shoes.

Abstract: In an embodiment, the invention provides an exercise mat, which may be of flexible polymer foam material and which includes one or more speakers integrated thereinto. An audio interface is further integrated into the material of the mat and is configured to receive an audio signal from at least one audio source, and to output an amplified audio signal to the speakers.

Abstract: A game apparatus includes an LCD, and a game screen is displayed on the LCD. A touch panel is provided on the LCD. The game screen presents a marker image so as to be variable in position in time with performance of music, and also presents a timer circle image for indicating touch timing for the marker image. A player needs to touch a marker image to be touched with precise timing, listening to the music or watching the timer circle image. The player's touch is evaluated on the basis of the touch timing and the touch position. If the touch is evaluated as a failure, the game screen is shaken.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention may be used to both train and test instructor proficiency with a group exercise training routine. In a training mode, the graphical user interface may display visual cues indicating upcoming transitions from one activity to another. In response, the user may perform an action (e.g., clicking a button with a mouse cursor) to select the transition at the appropriate time. In a testing mode, the graphical user interface may display an indication of whether the correct selections are made, as well as made at the right time. This approach allows the user to rapidly develop substantial proficiency with the exercise routine.

Abstract: A spinning shoe having an upper and sole member in which the sole member has a spinning assembly in the forefoot. The spinning assembly is placed within a recess in the forefoot region of the sole member. Thus, the user may walk about in the spinning shoe in a normal mode or spin about a vertical axis by placing the user's weight on the forefoot region and then spin about on the vertical axis.

Abstract: A clothing attachment that serves as a practice gown by connecting over the clothing of a wearer such that the clothing attachment is configured with weight, volume, and length markers to simulate the conditions of wearing a complete dress under actual conditions of that dress. In this manner, a wearer can simulate and otherwise practice engaging in activities for a wedding or ballroom dancing without risking damage to the actual dress or gown.

Abstract: A method and system are disclosed for computerized training, monitoring, certification or re-certification of human raters in clinical trials. The invention provides an interactive computerized interview that can be compared scores obtained by human raters to monitor and train clinical raters on a continuing basis in order to reduce rater drift and variance during clinical trials. Remediation can be automatically flagged or provided to improve a deviating rater's performance. Computerized assessment of symptom severity is provided without the need for human clinical raters. The system and method enable screening of prospective patients for inclusion or exclusion from a clinical trial by automatically obtaining computerized ratings of symptom severity.

Abstract: The process or method for teaching ballet through a series of novel floor exercise steps designed to properly condition the body of a dancer. The method warms up the muscles by performing a series of stretching protocols on a floor in a predetermined series and number of repetitions that keeps the spine, hips and shoulders in proper alignment.

Abstract: A spinning shoe having an upper and sole member in which the sole member has a spinning assembly in the forefoot. The spinning assembly is placed within a recess in the forefoot region of the sole member. Thus, the user may walk about like wearing a normal shoe and then by simply placing their weight on the forefoot region, they may spin about on a vertical axis.

Abstract: A spinning shoe having an upper and sole member in which the sole member has a spinning assembly in the forefoot. The spinning assembly is placed within a recess in the forefoot region of the sole member. Thus, the user may walk about in the spinning shoe in a normal mode or spin about a vertical axis by placing the user's weight on the forefoot region and then spin about on the vertical axis.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a conditioning apparatus for conditioning the hips and core structure of a user includes a target having printed thereon a movement pattern, and an illumination source spaced apart from the target. The illumination source is configured to be positioned about the user and to project a light upon the movement pattern for use as a visual reference point in response to movement of the user.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for choreographing movement of individuals for an event are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method includes providing each individual of a group with a wireless audio unit and transmitting body movement instruction signals to the audio units of each individual of the group. In this embodiment, the wireless audio unit may consist of a wireless, cellular, or mobile telephone. The audio units are configured to receive the signals and to play audio directions for each individual that correspond to choreographed and coordinated body movements to carry out the event.

Abstract: A platform or mat for exercising and dancing that is lightweight, has non-slip features and can be folded up for storage. The platform allows a user to determine foot position without having to look down at the platform thus allowing the user to watch a display screen while exercising or dancing. The platform includes tactile indicia molded that foot placement is determined by feel by the user's foot touching the tactile indicia. The material used to make the platform surface includes ethylene vinyl acetate. The platform includes electrically conductive switches that are activated by a force from the user's foot on a segment while exercising or dancing. Placing a user's foot on a segment communicates signals about the user's foot placement to a control device. The control device includes popular video game player devices and computers and includes the use of a display screen.

Abstract: An interactive sports training device has a plurality of light sources, multiple sensor means and a processor to facilitate the manoeuvring, passing and shooting of an object. Each sensor means is associated with one of the plurality of light sources, the sensor means being adapted to be triggered when an object is brought into close proximity with an activated light source. A processor means is coupled to the light sources and sensor means and is provided with at least one training program, and the processor means controls activation of the light sources according to at least one training program. When an object is placed in close proximity to an activated light source, the sensor communicates with the processor to deactivate the activated light source and to activate another light source in accordance with a training program. In use, it provides a system for simulating the unpredictable and competitive nature of multi-player sports by allowing a user to practice on his own in a ‘real life’ environment.

Abstract: A dance training aid ‘Daryll-eyes’, for general use is disclosed to be fabricated such that it rests on the head of the user. The frame is supported by the nose and ears. The device blocks the vision of the wearer in the downward direction.

Abstract: A dance shoe, a method of detecting and signaling a predefined configuration of a dance shoe for example during dancing and the use of a detector and/or a signal means in a dance shoe is described. The dance shoe comprises a detector for detecting a configuration of the dance shoe, and a signal means operably associated with the detector so as to generate a signal upon detection of a predefined configuration by the detector. The predefined configuration is provided by a curvature of an area of the dance shoe.

Abstract: A method is generally described which includes providing training by altering a user's motional response includes directing a user to perform specified motions in accordance with a training sequence and detecting the user's motions, by a feedback sensor device, the motions associated with the user. The method also includes generating, by the control program, control data based on the data representative of the detected motions and the training sequence. The control program is configured to receive data representative of the detected motions and to receive the training sequence. The control program has a control algorithm configured to generate control data based on the data representative of the detected motions and the information. Further, the method includes running the control program by a controller configured to output control signals based on the control data.

Abstract: A method for providing a feedback-controlled exercise routine for a user by providing a predetermined sequence of movements for the user; sensing movements of the user during the sequence; measuring data related to the sensed movements; and evaluating the data to determine whether to repeat or modify the routine. The method can also include storing the user's exercise routine on a user key, displaying exercise instructions to the user from the user key to illustrate the sequence of movements, with the evaluation of the data including modifying the displayed exercise instructions, and storing an updated user exercise routine after successful completion of the routine, wherein the updated routine includes the modified exercise instructions.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system, method, and computer readable medium for choreographing and teaching dance using symbols to represent dance steps. Input via computer peripheral devices is received and mapped to one of a plurality of stored dance steps stored in memory. The dance steps can be expressed in a plurality of modes. The plurality of mapped dance steps is then ordered into a choreographed dance routine. A dance routine file containing the dance routine comprised of the plurality of ordered and mapped dance steps is then created. The dance routine file can be printed, stored, and/or displayed using computer peripheral devices.

Abstract: A musical video is made at a first time of a dancer whose head is stationary but whose feet and body are moving in synchronism with a dance song. The dancer's head is then removed from the video. At a festive occasion (e.g., a birthday party) at a subsequent time, the dance song is replayed and a video is made of the response of the head, in a stationary position, of one or more of the celebrants at the festive occasion to the dance song. The celebrant's head is combined with the dancer's body to produce two (2) videos are then combined into a single video in which the celebrant's head appears on the dancer's body.

Abstract: Systems and methods of providing sports instruction are disclosed. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the method includes the steps of each of a plurality of instructors entering a name and one or more credentials into a server based data storage unit and each of the plurality of students selecting one of the plurality of instructors based on the one or more credentials. At a server, one or more uploaded files are received from each of the plurality of students and they are stored in the data storage unit. A selected one of the plurality of instructors reviews the uploaded files and provides instruction based on the uploaded files. The students can rate the instructors based on their experience. Other aspects of online sports instruction are also disclosed.

Abstract: A method of using lights and a light system for teaching dance, particularly to students with hearing impairments. The method or dance instruction includes a light bar having a plurality of first lights and second lights. The first and second lights are visually distinguishable. The first lights are turned on and off to display a pre-selected time signature pattern, and the second lights of the light bar are turned on and off to display a pre-selected and count time signature pattern. A light system for dance instruction includes a light bar having a first lights and second lights, which are visually distinguishable, and a control unit for: a) turning the first lights of the light bar on and off to display a pre-selected time signature pattern; and b) turning the second lights of the light bar on and off to display a pre-selected and count time signature pattern.

Abstract: A video interface may include a video region configured to display a primary video demonstrating an activity. The primary video may be defined by portions of primary video demonstrating respective sub-activities of the activity. Video segments may be associated with respective portions of the primary video, where the video segments include additional information of respective sub-activities displayed in the respective portions of the primary video. A selectable indicia may be displayed in association with the video region. The selectable indicia may use a link address to cause a video segment associated with a respective portion of the primary video being displayed at a time the selectable indicia is selected by a user to be displayed.

Abstract: Provided are a method and a system for providing dance training by using a portable wireless terminal in communication with sensor-equipped shoes capable of sensing a user's foot motion. While the terminal executes a dance training program having step information, sensing modules embedded in the shoes sense a user's foot motion and transmits related data to the terminal through a short-distance wireless communication unit. Then the terminal compares the foot motion data with the step information and outputs comparison results by using a display unit and/or an audio unit.

Abstract: A device for teaching a proper elbow position is disclosed. The device comprises a lever and a base member connected by a spring loaded hinge. The lever is attached to an elbow of a student and the base member abuts against a rib cage of the student. Also provided is an alarm means engaging when the student lowers his elbow, prompting the student to correct the elbow position.

Abstract: A music-oriented game machine with a feature to increase a feeling of competitiveness between players. Based on an evaluation of a performance of the first and second players based on their steps, the number of times step timing is presented as guidance is varied. Specifically, while reference arrows (46, 48) are displayed, a plurality of timing guidance arrows (50, 62) approaching the reference arrows (46, 48) are also displayed on a game screen image (40). As a result, guidance as to where step timing is arriving is shown to the player. Then, a speed at which the reference arrows (46, 48) approach the timing guidance arrows (50, 62), respectively, is changed from a default speed to speeds of half, twice, and three-times the default speed based on the result of evaluation on the respective player's stepping performances, to thereby change the guidance level.

Abstract: An arm positioning training tool includes an elongated rod that has a first end and a second end. The rod has a length generally between 36 inches and 44 inches. Each of a pair of rings has an inner edge perimeter edge and an outer perimeter edge. Each of the rings is attached to one of the first and second ends. The rod is attached to the outer perimeter edges of the rings so that the rings extend away from the rod. Each forearm of a pair of forearms of a person is removably positioned in one of the rings so that a proper distance between the forearms is maintained.

Abstract: A game board device for directing body movements in games, exercise, or physical therapy. It employs a support frame of side-by-side modular units of relatively the same size and shape supporting a continuous matrix of contact surfaces supported in a common plane. The contact surfaces in the adjacent frames are arranged in a coordinated matrix of adjacent surfaces that are illuminatable in various colors. The contact surfaces are illuminated normally one at a time so as to cue sequential steps in a random pattern and at varying speeds in a game or predetermined patterns and adjustable speeds in exercise or therapy. Control of the sequential illumination may be manually or by a program by manually operated device or by computer. It is preferred that the individual frames be hindged to permit folding for storage and transportation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for enabling a moving person to control body movements to be performed by the person. The system comprises a video camera and a monitor for the output of the recorded video image as well as a means for inserting at least a mark indicating the position to reach during execution of a movement of a predetermined body position in the video image.

Abstract: Each of communication controllers sends a count value of a timer corresponding to the lapse of time from a starting point of reproduction during the reproduction of a music to a communication cable. Each of game controllers calculates, while a multi-play mode is executed in an other game apparatus, a reproducing position of the music in the other game apparatus based on the count value sent from the communication controller and transfers a music data from the calculated reproducing position on to a sound source memory upon the receipt of an instruction signal outputted from a confirmation button of an instructing section and representing confirmation of selection of the multi-play mode. While one game player is playing a music game, another game player can participate in this game in the middle of a music number.

Abstract: An apparatus is equipped to provide dance visualization of a stream of music. The apparatus is equipped with a sampler to generate characteristic data for a plurality of samples of a received stream of music, and an analyzer to determine a music type for the stream of music using the generated characteristic data. The apparatus is further provided with a player to manifest a plurality of dance movements for the stream of music in accordance with the determined music type of the stream of music.

Abstract: A method of dance instruction utilizing aerobics is provided. The method incorporates dance steps into an aerobics routine, so that by repeating the aerobics routine, the participant can quickly learn the dance steps. A variety of dances may be taught by this method, such as the waltz, salsa, mamba, swing, cha cha, tango, zumba, zambra, and merengue, as examples. The method comprises presenting an aerobics routine having at least one dance set, typically at a pace that allows the participant to perform the aerobics routine either with or after the presentation. The method also includes the participant performing the aerobics routine while obtaining a cardiovascular workout. The aerobics routine has at least one dance and preferably, a number of different dances run sequentially or repeating in any combination. The routine includes at least one aerobics movement between dance sets; e.g., bending at the waist, touching the floor, jumping, lunging, or stretching.