Abstract: In one aspect, a system for people to simulate flying motion may include a plurality of supporting posts, one or more control units, and each of the control unit is connected to the user's body through a string, and a sensor is disposed on each string. The sensor can detect the tension change of the string and transmit the signal to the control unit to adjust the tension accordingly. When the user moves the wings, the change of the tension can be detected by the sensor and transmitted to the control unit to further adjust the tension of each string by pulling or releasing the strings to enable the user to enjoy the flying motion.

Abstract: A method for the continuous ranking of a competitor during a race of a slalom skiing type sports discipline includes the following iterative steps: a step of measuring the variation in the lateral angle of the gliding board about a predefined axis, a step of detecting the moment when the angle passes through a predefined value, a step of recording the competitor's run time corresponding to the detected moment, a step of comparing the stored run time with those of the preceding competitors for the corresponding detected moment, and a step of ranking the competitor with respect to the preceding competitors as a function of the run time of each competitor. A ranking system implements the method.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable storage media for improving physical activity performance analysis, and more specifically to a system and method for using motion, pressure and position sensors embedded in equipment or footwear of a user to assess physical activity performance. The sensors can collect pressure related data, transmit the data to a server for processing, and the user can receive feedback based on their performance.

Abstract: A multipurpose exercise device having a base that rests on a support surface and a user platform upon which the user stands. The lower end of a perpendicular support post is mounted to the base to axially pivot thereon and the upper end of the post is pivotally mounted to the lower surface of the user platform. The user platform pivots with the support post in a horizontal plane parallel to the support surface and pivots on the support post in a vertical plane perpendicular to the horizontal support surface. Resistance elements are provided having one end mounted to the support post and the other end mounted to the base to control the velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the horizontal plane. Preferably, a plurality of resistance elements are provided having one end mounted to the base and the other end mounted to the user platform to control the velocity and angle of pivot of the user platform in the vertical plane.

Abstract: The invention is a human-computer interface device which permits the user to control their movement within a Virtual Reality (VR) simulation and receive lifelike physical feedback. The platform will allow the user to stand on top of it and control their movement within a VR Environment by leaning in a direction. The platform's weight sensor system will detect which direction the user is leaning and output that information to the PC. The PC will calculate send the feedback controls to the platform, causing it to move and vibrate as applicable. The physical feedback will result in a more realistic experience while reducing the motion sickness associated with existing VR systems. This invention has a modular design that allows the user to utilize attachments for additional purposes such as a driving simulator. Although the invention was initially designed for VR, any interactive computer entertainment system could benefit.

Abstract: An snow ski training apparatus and methods of use are provided comprising a longitudinal T-beam having a central axis aligned generally between front and rear vertical supports, with a sliding pivot point assembly operatively engaging the T-beam for longitudinal movement. A pair of unparallel ski arms are provided, each having a plurality of axially spaced holes along the length of each respective ski arm, which are pivotally mounted overlapping each other on the sliding pivot point assembly enabling each ski arm to freely and independently pivot around the same vertical axis point. A foot pad is selectively configured at the tail end of each ski arm, enabling a user's feet to rotate along the same, congruent and overlapping arc. An achievement disc is provided concentrically with the sliding pivot point assembly enabling correlation between angles achieved by a user in operation of the apparatus with varying degrees of difficulty of downhill turns in assimilation of parallel snow skiing.

Abstract: A training apparatus/device has a frame and two elongated pedal elements, which are pivotally connected to the frame. The pedal elements are each provided with a footrest and a pedal axle and are, by a coupling element connected to each other, so that the pedal elements, in use of the training apparatus, are held parallel to each other. Further, the training apparatus has a transmission mechanism, which is connected via the coupling element with the pedal elements, as well as resistance mechanism, which is connected to the transmission mechanism and is driven by lateral displacement of the pedal elements. The coupling element is formed by an elongated element, whereby near each of the ends of the pedal elements is connected to the pedal element axles via a ball joint. As a result, this makes the training device less susceptible to interference and compact.

Abstract: A snowboard controller includes a base placeable on an upper surface of a board for a snowboard, a plurality of joints that join the base to the upper surface of the board. The plurality of joints include one joint being a direct joint at which the base is directly joinable to the board in a rotatable manner, and other joints being indirect joints at which the base is indirectly joinable to the board with joining members. The indirect joints control bending of the board using the direct joint as a base point.

Abstract: The invention concerns a device and methods for unilateral or bilateral physical therapy of lower limbs of a person. The device comprises a curved rail mounted on a base and a pair of support members on which the legs are disposed. The curved rail is configured to allow lateral movements of the lower limbs with the support members, the lateral movements being driven by a force of the lower limbs. The initial reinforcement of the lower limbs of the person is improved by the use of this device, which reduces friction or resistance caused by the device during prescribed movements. The invention provides to patients with severe lower limb disability a physical therapy device that is easy to use with minimum supervision by a physical therapist.

Abstract: A slide trainer for a softball or baseball student features a resilient pad and a load-spreading member. The load-spreading member distributes the load of a student landing on the load-spreading member over a relatively large are and hence volume of the resilient pad. The resilient pad may be thinner and hence less bulky and less costly than a resilient pad without the load-spreading member. For embodiments where the load-spreading member is not covered by a fabric, the load-spreading member provides a relatively slippery surface on which the student may slide.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for automatic game generation are described. The method may include collecting, by a hardware processor of a server over a network, first information associated with a first video game player, second information associated with a second video game player related to the first video game player, and a plurality of events that the first video game player and the second video game player have participated in. The method may also include creating a comparison tree for each of a plurality of event types associated with the plurality of events. The method may further include evaluating the comparison tree against a plurality of video game results to determine outcomes that are satisfied, and for each of the outcomes, generating a plurality of templates.

Abstract: A snowboard trainer (SBT) includes an SBT platform, a slide rail, slide supports, a central stand, and a front interface. The slide rail extends from a first end to a second end. The slide supports connect the slide rail to the SBT platform. The slide supports are configured to support the slide rail relative to the SBT platform. The central stand is positioned relative to the slide rail on the SBT platform and positioned between the first end and the second end of the slide rail. The central board receiver is connected to the central stand. The front interface is configured to be secured to a front portion of a snowboard. The front interface includes a roller bearing sized to be retained in the central board receiver such that when the roller bearing is received in the central board receiver, the front interface three-dimensionally rotates relative to the central stand.

Abstract: An obstacle apparatus is disclosed for an individual to traverse. The obstacle apparatus comprises a chassis and a frame. A hinge pivotably couples the chassis and the frame for positioning the frame in an inclined orientation relative to the chassis. A first drum is rotatably coupled to the frame. A second drum is rotatably coupled to the frame. A belt encircles the first drum and the second drum for defining a continuous loop belt system. A drive engages the continuous loop belt system for creating a displacement in the belt. The belt defines an upper belt surface for the individual to traverse.

Abstract: A body weight support (BWS) system is disclosed. The BWS system includes a harness coupled to a plurality of cables, wherein the harness is worn by a subject, an actuator for each of the plurality of cables, each actuator configured to place a tension on a corresponding cable in response to an electrical signal, at least one force sensor configured to provide an electrical signal corresponding to forces applied to the harness, at least one motion sensor configured to provide an electrical signal corresponding to changes in acceleration of the subject, and a controller configured to control the plurality of actuators.

Abstract: One example embodiment includes a mobile action sports ramp. The mobile action sports ramp includes an incline portion connected to a vehicle portion by a hinge. The incline portion includes a lower incline portion connected to an upper incline portion by a hinge. The lower incline portion folds onto the upper incline portion and the incline portion then rests upon the vehicle portion when the mobile action sports ramp is collapsed and capable of transportation. The lower incline portion unfolds into alignment with the upper incline portion and the incline portion then raises up when the mobile action sports ramp is erected and capable of use in various action sports. Methods for erecting and collapsing a mobile action sports ramp are also provided.

Abstract: A variable stiffness treadmill system having a variable stiffness mechanism, a split-belt treadmill, a counterweight system, and a body weight support for supporting an individual and varying the stiffness below the individual on the treadmill for research and rehabilitation.

Abstract: A multi-axis adjustable exercise machine which is pivotable about both a pitch axis and a roll axis with respect to a base for allowing an exerciser to perform a wide range of exercises on a pitched or rolled exercise machine. The multi-axis adjustable exercise machine generally includes an exercise machine which is adjustable with respect to a base. The exercise machine may be pivoted about a roll axis to adjust the roll angle of the exercise machine or may be pivoted about a pitch axis to adjust the pitch angle of the exercise machine. One or more actuators may be connected between the base and the exercise machine to effectuate the pivoting of the exercise machine about either or both axes with respect to the base.

Abstract: A system and computer-implemented method of providing haptic effects to a first user of a multi-user application. The method includes executing a first instance of the multi-user application on a first computing platform associated with the first user. The multi-user application is configured to interface with an object based on control inputs received from the first user and based on control inputs received from a second user via a second computing platform executing a second instance of the multi-user application, and responsive to performance of a first control input by the second user on the second computing platform, the method includes generating a first haptic effect for the first user on the first computing platform, the first haptic effect conveying information to the first user about the effect of the first control input.

Abstract: An apparatus interacting with an external device by using a pedal module is provided. The apparatus includes: a pedal module; a parallel position-measuring sensor for sensing a degree of a parallel motion; a rotary position-measuring sensor for sensing a degree of a rotary motion; and a control part for ordering the external device to be driven by referring to at least either of the degree of the parallel motion sensed by the parallel position-measuring sensor or that of the rotary motion sensed by the rotary position-measuring sensor or for receiving a control signal from the external device and driving a motor group including at least one motor to apply force feedback to the pedal module by referring to the control signal.

Abstract: A wakeboarding system and pool are provided. The wakeboarding system includes a deck, a pool of water adjacent the deck, a pad having a top surface and a bottom surface, the pad being fixedly coupled to the deck and protruding therefrom over a portion of the pool of water, the bottom surface of the pad being in contact with the pool of water and the pad being configured to float, and a flow of water over the top surface of the pad. The pad has an outer edge that opposes the deck, the outer edge being configured in a semi-circle. The pad further includes protrusions on the pad, the protrusions being configured on the top surface of the pad to allow a wake boarder to engage the protrusions. The apparatus further includes a towing mechanism and a tow device coupled thereto for towing the wake boarder.

Abstract: A ski training harness comprising: (a) an adjustable, releasable waist strap; (b) a pair of retractable leashes connected to the waist strap at a left-side and right-side location relative to a child, wherein each of the retractable leashes comprises a handle adapted to allow an adult wearing ski gloves to easily grasp the leash handle, a portion of each of the leashes extending from each of the handles; and (c) means for securing the pair of leash handles to the waist strap.

Abstract: A method of instructing an individual to ski includes attaching at least a portion of a bottom surface of a first apparatus to at least a portion of a top surface of a left ski. A top surface of the first apparatus may include indicia that instructs the individual how to maneuver the ski when moving downhill. The method may further include attaching at least a portion of a bottom surface of a second apparatus to at least a portion of a top surface of a right ski. A top surface of the second apparatus may include indicia that instructs the individual how to maneuver the ski when moving downhill. The indicia of the second apparatus may be presented in a different layout than the indicia of the first apparatus.

Abstract: A snow ski training device for a child has a harness with harness straps for partially enclosing and supporting a torso of the child. The harness is affixed to a companion backpack. The training device also includes a pair of leash reel bodies, each housing a retractable leash which is removably attached to either the harness or backpack. Each of the retractable leashes has a distal end attached to the backpack or harness and a proximate end which is received about a spool contained within the respective leash reel body. The leash reel bodies have lock mechanism which can be actuated to tether the child at various distances from a trainer holding the leashes.

Abstract: Ski restraint harnesses and methods of using ski restraint harnesses are described herein. One ski restraint harness can comprise two vertical straps, at least one horizontal strap to position and tighten around a torso of the person when wearing the ski restraint harness, and a rear training ring connected to material of the ski restraint harness and designed to be positioned on the rear of the person when wearing the ski restraint harness. The two vertical straps include a first vertical strap designed to be positioned around a first shoulder and a first leg of a person when wearing the ski restraint harness and a second vertical strap designed to be positioned around a second shoulder and a second leg of the person wearing the ski restraint harness.

Abstract: Apparatus for sport activity, in particular for skiing and/or snowboarding, usable for example by a skier, suited to splay the legs of the skier, includes a spacer element to which ends fastening mechanisms are coupled in order to couple the spacer element to each leg of the skier by the fastening mechanisms. Consequently, when the skier uses the apparatus, he/she has his legs open by a distance equal to the length of the spacer element.

Abstract: Described is an apparatus to facilitate training for skiing, skating, rollerblading, and the like, where an experienced person may assist or direct a novice. The apparatus includes a central support bar with three crossbars, one for the experienced person to grasp and two for the novice to hold onto and sit on or put behind the knees, respectively.

Abstract: A system and method for improving skating speed and strength of skaters, particularly ice skaters, employs an inclined skating ramp. The skating surface itself may be any of the conventional or yet-to-be-invented artificial ice surfaces. The inclination of the ramp provides a greater challenge for the skating student than a conventional flat skating surface. While the inclined ramp may have more than one lane, so that more than one student may skate side-by-side in competition with each other, it is preferred to have only a single lane and employ a timing system so that a student is skating “against the clock” and therefore focused on improvement of individual performance.

Abstract: A ski instructional apparatus and method for teaching young children that allows for dry land training of a student on skis. The apparatus includes a pole that the student straddles. The pole has a cross piece that extends behind the students legs and beneath the buttocks and handlebars for the student to hold onto. Pulling the pole forward causes the cross piece to push the student from behind so little or none of the student's arm strength is needed to pull the student on skis along a dry surface. The tips of the skis are connected by a tether and a line attached to the tether is connected to the pole. The arrangement allows the instructor to move the student forward and, at the same time, to move the ski tips one towards the other or allow the tips to move apart by respectively raising or lowering the pole.

Abstract: A floatable skier training device that includes a first floatable support comprising a first leading end and a second end, a second floatable support a first leading end and a second end, a seat (e.g., an arcuate seat) extending from the first floatable support to the second floatable support, the arcuate seat having a first forward section, a second rearward section, a top and a bottom, when the device is placed on a body of water, the bottom forms an angle with the surface of the body of water that is no greater than 45 degrees, and a method of using the same to allow a user to start from a position above the water.

Abstract: The present Invention provides a surfing device comprising at least one energy projecting means and at least one energy projecting structure for supporting and positioning the energy projecting means. The energy projecting structure positions the energy projecting means at one or more energy projecting positions. Energy is projected from the energy projecting means from positions to enable a person to surf at least partially solely via the projected energy. The present invention also provides a surface for a surfing device, either the device of the present Invention or another surfing device. The surface, is designed for a person to surf on either via the projected energy of the surfing device of the present Invention or by at least partially direct contact with the surface via fluid projected out of, over or upon it. The surface has an Impact absorption material.

Abstract: A method and device are provided that allow a competent skier to train and/or assist a trainee downhill skier with the acquisition of basic downhill skiing techniques. The trainee skier is tethered to an uphill instructing skier by a pair of reins attached to the trainee at the ankles, ski tips, or to the ski tips via ski tip handles. The instructing skier has substantially independent control over each tethering point to assist or train the novice skier to execute turns, control speed, and promote proper balance and stance for the maneuver and terrain at hand. The method and device may also comprise the use of adjustable ski tip couplers that limit divergence, and optionally convergence, of the trainee's ski tips. Handicapped skiers may be assisted and guided in downhill skiing using this method and device.

Abstract: In one example, an apparatus for teaching a student how to snow ski includes a removably attachable instructor component, a removably attachable student component, and means for temporarily securing the instructor component and student component together. The instructor component has a first end defining a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of an instructor's ski pole and a second end disposed opposite the first end. The student component has a first end configured to attach to a portion of a student's ski equipment and a second end disposed opposite the first end.

Abstract: A ski instructional apparatus and method for teaching young children that allows for dry land training of a student on skis. The apparatus includes a pole that the student straddles. The pole has a cross piece that extends behind the students legs and beneath the buttocks and handlebars for the student to hold onto. Pulling the pole forward causes the cross piece to push the student from behind so little or none of the student's arm strength is needed to pull the student on skis along a dry surface. The tips of the skis are connected by a tether and a line attached to the tether is connected to the pole. The arrangement allows the instructor to move the student forward and, at the same time, to move the ski tips one towards the other or allow the tips to move apart by respectively raising or lowering the pole.

Abstract: A training device has a frame and which is provided with a substantially elongated left-hand pedal element and a substantially elongated right-hand pedal element disposed substantially parallel thereto. A front part of each of the pedal elements is provided with a pedal shaft extending both at an upper side and at a bottom side of the pedal element. The training device may be used by a user to simulate a skiing motion.

Abstract: A trampoline board includes a resilient body with a foam core. At least one flex zone (e.g., a channel) which acts as a living hinge extends from a first lateral edge to a second lateral edge to facilitate bending to conform to the shape of a depressed trampoline surface. Sandal-like trampoline board bindings are threadedly coupled to inserts molded into the resilient body. Each binding includes a shock absorbing midsole and is devoid of any potentially harmful structures that extend above the ankle of a user, such as the molded support behind the heel characteristic of snowboard bindings. Adjustable cushioned straps secure the sandal-like trampoline board bindings to a user's feet. The insert pack includes a base with a plurality of parallel threaded shanks extending perpendicularly therefrom.

Abstract: An assembly provided for the practice of a gliding, rolling, or walking sport, such as snowboarding, skateboarding, or snowshoeing, for example, the assembly including a device for receiving a foot or a boot, as well as a board. The assembly includes a system for marking the position of the receiving device with respect to the board (3), the marking system including a first marking arrangement associated with the receiving device, as well as a second marking arrangement associated with the board, the first and second marking arrangements being provided to cooperate with one another.

Abstract: An exercise device for the crossover step, including an upper wheel supported, the upper wheel having a skating surface and being rotatable; a lower wheel joined to the upper wheel via a hub, the lower wheel having idler wheels supporting the upper wheel; upper legs and lower legs, the upper and lower legs being joined to the lower wheel; a track joined to the upper legs and lower legs, the track adapted to allow the upper wheel, lower wheel, upper legs and lower legs to be stored vertically against a wall and positioned for use adjacent a floor; and mechanism for controlled increase of simulated G-forces applied to a skater skating on the skating surface.

Abstract: A floatable skier training device that includes a first floatable support comprising a first leading end and a second end, a second floatable support a first leading end and a second end, a seat (e.g., an arcuate seat) extending from the first floatable support to the second floatable support, the arcuate seat having a first forward section, a second rearward section, a top and a bottom, when the device is placed on a body of water, the bottom forms an angle with the surface of the body of water that is no greater than 45 degrees, and a method of using the same to allow a user to start from a position above the water.

Abstract: In one example, an apparatus for teaching a student to ski or snowboard includes a removably attachable instructor component and a removably attachable student component. The instructor component has a first end and a second end. The first end defines a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of an instructor's ski pole. The first end is configured to be removably secured to the bottom end of the instructor's ski pole. The second end is disposed opposite the first end. The student component is configured to be removably secured to a student's ski or snowboard equipment and is also configured to be removably secured to the second end of the instructor component.

Abstract: In one example, an apparatus for teaching a student how to snow ski includes a removably attachable instructor component, a removably attachable student component, and means for temporarily securing the instructor component and student component together. The instructor component has a first end defining a cavity configured to receive a bottom end of an instructor's ski pole and a second end disposed opposite the first end. The student component has a first end configured to attach to a portion of a student's ski equipment and a second end disposed opposite the first end.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to a device for practicing water board sports. The device includes a water stream to artificially create a water flow on a support where the user can practice sports and one or more distributors which assist in controlling the created water flow according to the position or to motions on the support of the user or an object moving with the user.

Abstract: A device to assist in the teaching of downhill skiing which is fabricated of a resilient material and is configured and graphically adorned to encourage the proper positioning of the upper body and hands to maintain control.

Abstract: An ice skating training device including an arcuate conveyor belt, the belt having a skateable surface; and a plurality of conical rollers supporting said arcuate conveyor belt, at least one of said frusticonical rollers being driven by a motor, ends of said rollers being mounted so that one end is vertically adjustable relative to the opposite end depending on the speed that the ice skater is going.

Abstract: A method and device are provided that allow a competent skier to train and/or assist a trainee downhill skier with the acquisition of basic downhill skiing techniques. The trainee skier is tethered to an uphill instructing skier by a pair of reins attached to the trainee at the ankles, ski tips, or to the ski tips via ski tip handles. The instructing skier has substantially independent control over each tethering point to assist or train the novice skier to execute turns, control speed, and promote proper balance and stance for the maneuver and terrain at hand. The method and device may also comprise the use of adjustable ski tip couplers that limit divergence, and optionally convergence, of the trainee's ski tips. Handicapped skiers may be assisted and guided in downhill skiing using this method and device.

Abstract: The invention relates to a unit for training in water-based traction board sports and for recreational purposes, formed by an essentially rectangular liquid-filled pool (1) comprising the following components arranged from one end of the pool to the other, namely: a liquid suction and backflow area (2), an area (3) in which a wave of the liquid is created and conditioned, a gliding area (4), and a liquid recovery area (5). The invention is suitable for use in training in water-based board sports and for recreational purposes.

Abstract: An exercise device for the crossover step, including an upper wheel supported, the upper wheel having a skating surface and being rotatable; a lower wheel joined to the upper wheel via a hub, the lower wheel having idler wheels supporting the upper wheel; upper legs and lower legs, the upper and lower legs being joined to the lower wheel; a track joined to the upper legs and lower legs, the track adapted to allow the upper wheel, lower wheel, upper legs and lower legs to be stored vertically against a wall and positioned for use adjacent a floor; and mechanism for controlled increase of simulated G-forces applied to a skater skating on the skating surface.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a portable apparatus for training a user in increasing levels of skill, control and maneuverability of a board for a board sport. The portable apparatus comprises a foot placement mat and a support unit. The foot placement mat comprises multiple placement zones for indicating a first location for positioning a support unit and second locations for placing the user's feet. The support unit comprises laterally opposite support members and hand placement platforms. Each of the laterally opposite support members comprises an elongated section and a lower protruding section. The hand placement platforms are detachably attached to the elongated section or the lower protruding section of the laterally opposite support members for enabling placement of the user's hands in an elevated position or a lower position respectively.

Abstract: A water sport training device is disclosed comprising, in one embodiment, a raft having a distal nose portion and a proximal rear portion. A relatively rigid platform is positioned within the raft and configured to provide a stable surface for the person during use of the device. A tow rope attachment means is secured to the raft for selectively towing the device over a body of water, the attachment means comprising at least one tow rope attachment point located on the nose portion of the raft, below a nose portion mid-plane. The device is configured such that a back half of the device has a center buoyancy sufficient for providing a stable surface to support the weight of a person while floating on water both at standstill and as being pulled through the water as by a boat.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for maneuvering a snowboard includes a removable strap that straps around a boot that attaches to a board. The removable strap includes an upper strap portion, a lower strap portion, and a securing strap portion. The securing strap portion is positioned under the boot and is attached to the lower strap portion. The lower strap portion is strapped to the boot and the upper strap portion is strapped above the lower strap portion. Attached to an outward facing section of the upper strap portion is a first handle which has a semi-rigid loop portion. By pulling the loop portion, an end section of the board may be maneuvered. Attached to an inward facing section of the lower strap portion is a second handle for assisting in stabilizing the board and used as leverage in pulling up into a standing position.

Abstract: An assembly provided for the practice of a gliding, rolling, or walking sport, such as snowboarding, skateboarding, or snowshoeing, for example, the assembly including a device for receiving a foot or a boot, as well as a board. The assembly includes a system for marking the position of the receiving device with respect to the board (3), the marking system including a first marking arrangement associated with the receiving device, as well as a second marking arrangement associated with the board, the first and second marking arrangements being provided to cooperate with one another.