Physical Education Patents (Class 434/247)
  • Publication number: 20120100514
    Abstract: Method for training of a perceptual skill, e.g. using a brain computer interface, which method comprises measuring electrophysiological activity in reaction to a sequence of perceptual stimuli. Furthermore, matching the measured electrophysiological activity signal with a predefined electrophysiological signature signal is performed, in which the predefined electrophysiological signature signal corresponds to an early electrophysiological component. Feedback is provided when a match is detected.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 2, 2010
    Publication date: April 26, 2012
    Applicant: Stichting Katholieke Universiteit, Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen
    Inventors: Petrus Wilhelmus Maria Desain, James Maurice McQueen
  • Publication number: 20120090356
    Abstract: A cylindrical gear ring assembly is provided for use as a decorative wearable ornamental device useable as a ring or other piece of jewelry, a toy, and a therapy tool, and more specifically to a ring with a rotatable mechanism comprising movable cylinders which rotate against gear mechanisms and method of using the same.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: Kinekt Design, LLC
    Inventors: Glen Liberman, Benjamin David Hopson
  • Publication number: 20120094261
    Abstract: A flow meter for a container, for monitoring the dehydration of a patient, has a sensor unit for detecting a flow through the flow meter and a control unit for recording an amount of liquid passing through during a time interval. The flow meter is an adapter for connection to a bottle or a beaker. A patient receives a warning if he should take in liquid. A base station serves for bidirectional transmission of measurement data to an external apparatus, more particularly a telemedical center.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Henning Hayn, Gabor Conrad
  • Publication number: 20120088213
    Abstract: A method including the steps determining a workstation environment of a user, providing a first reminder to the user to perform a set of exercises after an interval of work, and instructing the user to perform the set of exercises after an acceptance, by the user, of the reminder to perform the set of exercises, the set of exercises tailored to the workstation environment of the user, wherein the instructions associated with the first set of exercises and the second set of exercises include a demonstration to the user to ensure the proper execution of the exercises by the user to help reduce the probability of a workstation injury. Furthermore, an associated system is also provided.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2010
    Publication date: April 12, 2012
    Inventor: Gregory Soltanoff
  • Patent number: 8152531
    Abstract: A fitness challenge program designed to encourage physical activity as well as to entertain and engage participants. Individuals are organized into teams and compete individually as well as against other teams. The program incorporates the use of computer technology to record physical activity and track progress for individuals as well as their teams. The individual and team activity information is posted to a web site accessible to the participants. Each participant has an account and can access his or her activity data through the web site. Team progress can also be viewed in the form of activity level data as well as movement to various locations associated with activity levels. The program incorporates educational content that is tied to team progress in the challenge. The program may be organized and administered through the middle schools that student participants attend.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Humana Inc.
    Inventors: Paul Puopolo, Sandra Jean Nelson
  • Publication number: 20120077163
    Abstract: It is described a 3D monocular tracking system, being robust, having low cost, easy to install and use, useful for the upper limbs rehabilitation in a patient in need thereof, as well as a home self-directed therapy method for patients having upper limbs' movement disability. The system comprising a) a handle or gripper; b) a computational vision system comprising a video camera; c) software comprising a set of games; d) a processor; and, e) a display apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 14, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Inventors: Luis Enrique Sucar Succar, Roger Luis-Velasquez, Gildardo Azcarate-Hernandez, Ronald Sturat-Leder, David Reinkensmeyer
  • Publication number: 20120077164
    Abstract: This invention is related to systems and methods of analyzing sensory ability data. One embodiment of the present invention includes a method comprising the steps of receiving data from a remote location. The data is comprised of sensory ability data and demographic data associated with a subject. The data may then be stored. Further, the method includes identifying a potential evaluation level associated with the subject. The evaluation level is identified, at least in part, utilizing a sports tree function. The method also includes retrieving peer data associated with the potential evaluation level. Additionally, the method includes determining when the peer data is statistically powerful for use in generating a comparative profile of the sensory ability data associated with the subject. Additional embodiments develop training programs based on one or more training program functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: March 29, 2012
    Applicant: Nike, Inc.
    Inventors: Herb Yoo, Alan W. Reichow, Thomas R. Fortune, JR., Matthew Genar Hilla, Rick M. Rezinas
  • Publication number: 20120064495
    Abstract: A training system (10) has a number of motion detection units (12) which are triggered in sequence. Each motion detection unit (12) has a radar transmitter (26) for transmitting a radar beam (34), a radar receiver (28) and an indicator in the form of LED lamps (18) and a buzzer (20). A control system (13) triggers each motion detection unit (12) according to a sequence to activate the LED lamps (18) and a buzzer (20). The sequence simulates a game or a training exercise, or may be randomly generated. The motion detection units (12) are operable to de-activate the indicators when the radar receiver (28) detects a radar reflection from an object passing through the radar beam (34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Applicant: PANTHER INTERNATIONAL PTY LTD.
    Inventors: Robert Tybon, Geoff Harris
  • Publication number: 20120064494
    Abstract: An aid is disclosed for a trainer teaching a student motor skills. A magnetically-inert shield receives a magnetically-inert screen fixed to the front side thereof. A token has a magnetically-attractive material, and a token controller has a first magnet, such that the token controller may be used to move the token around on the screen when the token controller is pressed up against the rear side of the shield. One of the screens may include at least one raised portion raised off of the front surface of the screen a distance sufficient to receive the token thereunder. Various activities and games may be played with the aid, revolving primarily about the student trying to grasp a token that is moved by the trainer about the screen.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Publication date: March 15, 2012
    Inventor: Franz Vinther
  • Patent number: 8128533
    Abstract: Each time stepping motion of a player by a stepper 1 is detected, one firework object 214 appears on a television monitor 100 and then disappears. Each a predetermined number of times of the stepping motion of the player is detected, a more spectacular firework object than that of one step is displayed. If the player performs the stepping motion by frequency as a quota shown in a quota display section 212, this screen is finished.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: SSD Company Limited
    Inventors: Katsuya Nakagawa, Hiromu Ueshima, Hiroyuki Aimoto, Keiichi Yasumura
  • Patent number: 8128410
    Abstract: A multi-mode athleticism movement measurement system includes an athlete-borne acceleration sensor and an athleticism processing device to determine athleticism information based upon one or more timing measurements from the athlete-borne acceleration sensor, the athleticism information corresponding to any of multiple athleticism measurement modes available on athleticism processing device and selectable by a user. A data link between the athlete-borne acceleration sensor and the athleticism rating processing device transmits the one or more timing measurements from the athlete-borne acceleration sensor to the athleticism rating processing device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignee: Nike, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Prstojevich
  • Publication number: 20120052946
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a system and method for virtual martial arts training using a network. The system includes a user terminal, a network server, a data management unit, and a network administrator terminal. The user terminal exchanges user information with a network server, selects a training discipline and grade or an examination discipline and grade, and transmits a difference value and a correction value together with a user motion image. The network server includes user information management means, training information management means, examination information management means, examination and determination management means, image information management means, and communication means. The data management means includes a user information database (DB), a training information DB, an examination information DB, an examination and determination DB, and an image information DB, and inputs and outputs the information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2011
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Sang Bum Yun
  • Publication number: 20120052987
    Abstract: A sports training aid includes a sports accessory and a coaching instruction positioned on the accessory in a position where it can be seen by a wearer during normal use of the accessory. In one example the accessory is a football boot and the coaching instruction is provided by an elastic sleeve detachably mounted over the boot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2010
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Inventor: Joseph David GOODMAN
  • Patent number: 8123527
    Abstract: An activity device including an activity sensor generating an activity interaction signal responsive to a sustained large-muscle physical activity of a user operating the activity device; a controller, coupled to the activity monitor, generating a virtual environment supporting a virtual user frame-of-reference in the virtual environment, the controller generating a set of virtual education elements in the environment and a goal for the set virtual representation with respect to the virtual education elements wherein the controller is responsive to the activity interaction signal to produce an affected interaction of the virtual representation with the virtual education elements with the controller measuring a conformation of the goal by the affected interaction; and a feedback system, coupled to the controller, presenting the virtual environment with the frame-of-reference in relation to the virtual education elements providing the user with feedback regarding the goal and the conformation of the goal by the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: H. Christian Hölljes
  • Publication number: 20120046569
    Abstract: A method of providing cognitive training to a user, the method including, in a processing system, presenting a cognitive task to a user, the cognitive task requiring the user to view presented information and provide at least one input response; determining the at least one input response using an input device; determining from a measuring device a measure of electrical activity in the user's brain whilst performing the cognitive task; and, determining a score based on at least one of the at least one input response and the measured electrical activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF WOLLONGONG
    Inventors: Stuart John Johnstone, Steven James Roodenrys
  • Publication number: 20120035487
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for providing information to a user about a fitness activity includes receiving on a portable fitness device from a shoe having an RFID tag information relating to the shoe, wherein the shoe is for wearing during the fitness activity, receiving on the portable fitness device information about the fitness activity, and displaying to the user the information relating to the shoe and the information about the fitness activity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2011
    Publication date: February 9, 2012
    Applicant: adidas AG
    Inventors: Jon H. WERNER, Scot Doyle
  • Publication number: 20120021393
    Abstract: A method for operating a training device is provided. According to the method, a property of a user using the training device during a training session is automatically determined, and a fitness level of the user is automatically determined from the user property. Based on the fitness level of the user a performance of a virtual opponent is automatically defined, and information representing the performance of the virtual opponent is output to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: January 26, 2012
    Inventor: Ola Thörn
  • Publication number: 20120015334
    Abstract: A physical exercise apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2011
    Publication date: January 19, 2012
    Inventor: Bobbi Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8092224
    Abstract: According to some embodiments, systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture may provide for improved health care compliance. Embodiments may comprise, for example, identifying an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, determining output information associated with a game, and providing the output information to the patient. Some embodiments may comprise receiving a code associated with a patient, wherein the code includes encoded information that is indicative of an occurrence of an event associated with the taking of a substance by a patient, decoding the code to determine the information, determining whether the occurrence of the event is compliant with a condition associated with the taking of the substance, and providing, in the case that compliance with the condition is determined, one or more rewards to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventors: Jay S. Walker, James A. Jorasch, Patrick W. Nee, Jr., Carson C. K. Fincham, Evan Walker, David Bean, Rajivan Maniam
  • Patent number: 8094090
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a system which may allow a user to visualize and/or monitor motor activities during, e.g., rehabilitation exercises and/or athletic training. The system may include a camera that may be configured to capture images of a user performing a motor activity. The system may also include a computer configured to receive the captured images from the camera while the user is performing the motor activity. The computer may be further configured to provide static and dynamic augmentation of the captured images. The system may further include a display for the user. The display may be configured to receive the augmented captured images from the computer and to display the augmented captured images to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: James Brian Fisher, Fred Henry Previc
  • Patent number: 8088042
    Abstract: A method, system, measurement device and receiving device for providing feedback relating to an activity to at least one individual. In the method, activity information relating to an activity is measured with a measurement device. Activity information is transmitted to a receiving device via a communication link. The receiving device selects from the received activity information a predefined set of pieces of activity information and provides the at least one individual with feedback based on the selected activity information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventors: Ilkka Limma, Ville Kampman, Hannu Moilanen
  • Publication number: 20110311955
    Abstract: A method and corresponding apparatus for controlling physical exercise, in which an exercise program is stored and presented to a user as a computer animated instructor. The computer animated instructor is produced so that the animation corresponds to movements according to the exercise program. The animation is synchronized with music and presented to the user on a display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2009
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Applicant: KINEWARE OY
    Inventors: Juha Antero Forsten, Jukka Petri Ronkko
  • Publication number: 20110294610
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method and a device for practicing a tennis serve, learning how to perform a tennis serve, and for teaching a student how to perform a tennis serve. The method includes placing an indicator band on the server's thumb joint, placing a positioning indicator on the throat of the server's racquet, standing at the baseline in a serving position, bringing the racquet to the tossing hand and physically touching the positioning band on the thumb with the indicator band on the racquet, dropping both hands together, one hand holding the ball and one hand holding the racquet, then extending the throwing hand skyward and releasing the ball with the palm of the hand up, and bringing the racquet around and striking the ball at the apogee of its arc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 24, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventors: Deborah W. Brenner, Todd E. Sherman
  • Publication number: 20110291375
    Abstract: A skateboard accessory comprising an attachment mechanism that can be removably attached to the edge of a skateboard deck, a flexible member extending upward from the attachment mechanism, and a handle located at or near the end of said elastic member. A method of using such a device by grasping the handle and pulling upward while executing an ollie such that the skateboard is lifted completely off of the ground.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: December 1, 2011
    Inventor: Reginald Lawson
  • Patent number: 8066514
    Abstract: Embodiments of a method and system for developing a training program for a trainee are provided. In one embodiment, in a training system, the method may include profiling the trainee by processing at least one of physiological data, psychological data and training program data associated with the trainee; designing a training program for the trainee in accordance with the profile of the trainee; receiving training activity data communicated in association with the trainee performing at least one training activity; and, automatically modifying at least a portion of the training program in the training system in accordance with at least the communicated training activity data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2011
    Inventor: Mark Anthony Clarke
  • Publication number: 20110287397
    Abstract: An instrument and a system; a local training instrument which is concerning the scientific training on fundamental theories of ‘the fighting science’ about instantaneously dynamic balance and reacting of a professional contestant at standing posture. It comprises three primary components: a mechanical energy transferring subunit 1, a three-dimensional driven subunit 2, and a body holding subunit 3 or extra insert with the secondary component as a peripheral supporting subunit 4. Additionally, a global distributional each local training instrument through the internet 1300 connecting with a far end central data processing center 1301 composes an appraisal system which is with the purpose of objectively estimating the index of real fighting ability for each trainee.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Publication date: November 24, 2011
    Inventor: Chyn Herng Hwu
  • Publication number: 20110281249
    Abstract: A method and system for creating personalized workout programs are disclosed. According to one embodiment, a computer-implemented method comprises receiving first input data from a client device, the first input data comprising personal information, fitness goal information, and scheduling data. Based on the first input data, a recommended workout schedule and a recommended list of activity groups are generated. Second input data is received from the client device, the second input data comprising feedback related to the recommended list of activity groups. Based on the first input data and second input data, a personalized workout plan is generated. The personalized workout plan is transmitted and displayable on the client device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 16, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventors: Nicholas Gammell, Samuel Morrell, Dereck Rasmussen
  • Publication number: 20110281248
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method, software and/or tool for assisting users in meeting a goal. Each time an activity is undertaken, the user logs this occurrence. The method comprises determining the number of times the activity is undertaken in the cycle time period, and an indicator 100 updated to reflect whether the user is on track to achieving their goal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: Aliveware Limited
    Inventors: Mark Feenstra, Alden Gannon
  • Publication number: 20110281250
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for toilet training for children or as an aid to urinary function for adults which presents two cues to the person. The first cue is an audible sound of water flowing. The second cue is visual observation of water flowing. The cues are presented in a structure which may be a rotatable hour glass shaped liquid containing device which permits the liquid to flow from one portion of the hour glass to the other when the device is rotated. A sound of flowing water is produced from sound storage means in the device. The liquid may be refilled or it may be pre-sealed at the factory. Two plates are proved at the ends of the hour glass to house a picture in one and a mirror in the other. The structure may be utilized free-standing, or attached to a rotatable base which, in turn, may be fixedly or removably mounted on a surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Inventor: Jill M. Carman
  • Publication number: 20110275042
    Abstract: Certain embodiments of the present invention are directed to automated human-motion-training systems. These automated human-motion-training systems include a hardware platform that provides for stored-instruction processing and that includes memory, an I/O interface, and an audio-signal generation and output component, and an operating system or control program that executes on the hardware platform and that provides a program-execution environment. The automated human-motion-training systems further include components of the human-motion-training system that provide for automated proctoring of human-motion exercises and training regimes, including monitoring of a user's body position, producing feedback corresponding to a user's body position, and determining a user's performance in order to modify the exercises and training regimes so that they provide optimal-challenge-point-based training over the course of multiple repetitions and training sessions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: David J. Warman, Bertis Charles Rasco, Peter A. Handel
  • Publication number: 20110275045
    Abstract: Methods and system for providing a video overlay sports motion analysis. An embodiment method comprises receiving files containing video frames recording a professional athlete's performance of a motion and video frames of a student's performance of the motion. A stick figure representation of the professional athlete's motion is provided as a video sequence, and the video sequence is aligned to, and overlaid with, outlines of the student athlete. A playable video file providing a visual comparison between the student athlete's motion and the motion of the professional is created and delivered. Differences between the two motions are ascertained. A representation of the student performing the motion correctly is created and stored to enable playback; enabling the student to mentally visualize himself/herself performing the correct motion. The embodiments provide a turnkey system usable from anywhere worldwide by any student or coach at low cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 21, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: Foerster Bhupathi International, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Shiv Kumar Bhupathi, William Michael Foerster
  • Publication number: 20110275043
    Abstract: In one embodiment a gait training system includes a patient interface adapted to attach to a patient's thigh, the patient interface defining a channel, a cord that passes through the channel of the patient interface, and connecting means attached to a first end of the cord for connecting the cord to the patient's forefoot, wherein pulling of the cord pulls the patient interface forward and upward to emulate hip flexion and simultaneously pulls the connecting means upward to emulate ankle dorsiflexion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 6, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: The University of Kansas
    Inventor: Wen Liu
  • Publication number: 20110275044
    Abstract: A computer-implemented method and/or computer program product for developing a physical fitness regimen, including establishing individualized physical fitness parameters based upon individualized information; obtaining physical fitness data from one or more computer database sources; developing a physical fitness regimen based upon the individualized information and the physical fitness data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Jonathan D. Roche
  • Publication number: 20110275939
    Abstract: A portable system is provided for sensing and training a user to maintain correct posture while seated in a chair with a seat portion and a back portion. The system includes a first pad attachable to the seat portion of a chair, said first pad having a front area and a rear area, and a second pad attachable to the back portion of a chair and having a lower area and an upper area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventors: Michael C. Walsh, Sean Colford, Ethan Epstein, Brandon Loye, Rhonda Epstein, Matthew Davis, Wesley Koga, Alexander Saal, Victor Tung, Frank Winter
  • Publication number: 20110275041
    Abstract: A calf roping training apparatus incorporating a simulated calf, a support column and a towing structure. The support column has a spin joint and an invert joint. The calf body of the simulated calf is formed by one or more pieces of simulated skin and a simulated head fixed in anatomical form by a body frame. The support column is anchored to the towing structure. The towing structure has a tow member, a pair of long skids, a short skid, and a towing attachment device. The support column base is attached to the short skid which provides for transfer of the weight of the simulated calf to the ground. The support column top is attached to or integrated with the body frame.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: William Clark Reynolds
  • Patent number: 8047924
    Abstract: A method of providing a simulated bull ride includes guiding a rider to sit on an artificial bull in a bull chute, translating the artificial bull out of the chute along a slidably-coupled track and pivoting the artificial bull about a plurality of pivot points on an internal frame to simulate a bucking bull.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Roland Tirelli
  • Publication number: 20110262887
    Abstract: Gaze based systems and methods are used to monitor the attention of a user. One or more images are displayed to a user on a display. It is determined that an image of the one or more images is being viewed by an eye of the user from one or more measurements received from an eyetracker. One or more modifications to the image are displayed on the display over time so as to maintain the attention of the user. Whether or not the attention of the user is maintained is determined from one or more additional measurements received from the eyetracker after the one or more modifications to the image. In various embodiments, the one or more modifications to the image include moving the image on the display. In various embodiments, the one or more modifications to the image include animating the image on the display.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Inventor: Dixon Cleveland
  • Publication number: 20110262888
    Abstract: A system for encouraging a user to perform substantial physical activity. The system may include sensors that may be worn by the user while the user is performing a substantial physical activity, such as running or playing basketball. The sensors may detect the magnitude of the physical activity and may transmit data regarding the physical activity to a processing system. The processing system may display a reward to encourage the user for participating in physical activity and the reward provided may be based on the physical activity of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2011
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
    Inventors: Dhruv Thukral, Michael J. Zyda, Chang Wei-Chung, Shu Fen Lin
  • Publication number: 20110256518
    Abstract: Riding a surfboard on sizeable waves is generally very demanding and time-consuming to learn. Beginners tire quickly when paddling against incoming surf and repeatedly fall when first learning to catch and ride waves. A motorized surfboard wirelessly controllable by the instructor, the student, or both facilitates instruction and practice on a floating board moving at variable speeds in a relatively safe, controlled calm-water setting. This system provides an intermediate learning environment between dry land or still water and the vastly more challenging ocean surf. Later, in a surf zone, the board's motor propulsion assists with paddling so that the student can concentrate on wave-riding. Inland-dwelling students can use this system to learn to ride a board on an existing nearby lake, river, or large swimming pool before a holiday trip to the seashore or an artificial-surf pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2011
    Publication date: October 20, 2011
    Applicant: WAVEDRIVE SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventor: Dainuri Rott
  • Patent number: 8038446
    Abstract: A training device for nasal hygiene comprises a facial tissue sheet; where the facial tissue sheet has a first side, and where the facial tissue sheet also has a second side having an opposing planar relationship to the first side. A first-side tissue graphic is visible on the first side of the facial tissue sheet. The first-side tissue graphic comprises a permanent graphic and/or an active graphic. In addition, the first-side tissue graphic is a training mark.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Kimberly-Clark Worldwide, Inc.
    Inventors: Jason C. Cohen, Thomas G. Shannon, Eric D. Johnson, Andrew P. Bakken, Corey T. Cunningham, Steven R. Kehn, Cynthia Watts Henderson, Kathryn J. Sirovatka
  • Publication number: 20110250577
    Abstract: A method for teaching an adult or child how to breathe through an air regulator is provided. The method includes providing an air regulator and a first air pump positioned at a location proximate a residential pool and outside of the residential pool, wherein the air regulator and the air pump are operatively connected with one another via a hose that allows air to flow from the air pump and be supplied to the air regulator in an amount sufficient for a human child or adult that is able to swim to breathe. The method further includes supplying the adult or child air from the air pump via the hose and through the air regulator to allow the adult or child to breathe underwater in the residential pool.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2010
    Publication date: October 13, 2011
    Inventor: Thomas M. Aaberg
  • Patent number: 8033959
    Abstract: Portable fitness monitoring systems, and applications thereof, are disclosed. In an embodiment, a portable fitness monitoring system includes: a portable fitness monitoring device; a sensor in wireless communication with the portable fitness monitoring device for sensing performance parameters during a physical activity conducted by the user and communicating performance parameter data to the dedicated portable fitness monitoring device; a music device directly coupled to the portable fitness monitoring device; and an audio output device directly coupled to the portable fitness monitoring device, wherein music is transmitted from the portable music device to the audio output device through the portable fitness monitoring device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: adidas AG
    Inventors: Mark Arthur Oleson, Christian DiBenedetto, Ian Michael Munson
  • Patent number: 8025606
    Abstract: A physical exercise method and apparatus comprises a mat/cushion device and accessories designed for fitness interactivity using an array of variations of graphics specifically placed on the mat. The locations of the graphics are provided as an aid to guide proper body positions or postures, placement and alignment in yoga and physical exercise, and for the use of creative sequencing of movement, proper technique, and body mechanics. The apparatus is a foundation and map for physical exercise programs, games, interactive play, physical therapies and methods. The apparatus contains graphics with anthropometric measurements that may be synchronized with instruction, audio and/or video displays, and/or video games containing and delivering corresponding graphics for body placement and timing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: Phresh, LLC
    Inventor: Bobbi Hamilton
  • Patent number: 8021160
    Abstract: Disclosed is a learning assessment method and device using a virtual tutor. The device comprises at least one action acquisition module, a virtual tutor synthesis module, and a learning assessment module. The method captures and analyzes a first and a second action-feature for a first and a second targets respectively, and constructs an intrinsic model of the second target based on a reference data of the second target. A virtual tutor is synthesized by applying the first action-feature to the intrinsic model such that the virtual tutor exhibits the intrinsic characteristics of the second target but performs a synthesized action-feature similar to the first action-feature. The method then assesses the difference between the synthesized action-feature and the second action-feature.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2011
    Assignee: Industrial Technology Research Institute
    Inventor: Yao-Jen Chang
  • Publication number: 20110225007
    Abstract: In accordance with the present invention there is provided a method for distribution of medical information and patient services including providing coaches to effectuate behavioral changes in patients including addressing health, wellness, mental health, and productivity issues, wherein said coaches have undertaken coach training and use substantially the same coaching skills and methodology, and wherein the coaches are as a group heterogeneous in that some of said coaches possess credentials in nutrition and weight management, and some of said coaches possess credentials in mental health.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: September 15, 2011
    Inventor: Gerald A. Theis
  • Patent number: 8016597
    Abstract: A method and apparatus are disclosed that automatically interject brain activations into video imaging activities or other activities of daily living. During a video game, for example, an interrupt causes a pause in the game and a commencement of an activity involving but not limited to bilateral portions of the body, the peripheral vision of the game-player, and a visual pursuit-type and saccadic-type action on the video screen. Alternatively, the brain activation can be merged into the content of the video game so as to be generally indistinguishable to the user. Automatic feedback from the system encourages more frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be diminished and less frequent brain activations when performance is determined to be enhanced. The combination of events in the activity is believed to engage the frontal lobes of the brain as well as other brain structures and stimulate brain health.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: Brainon LLC
    Inventors: Lee S Becker, Donald Joergens, Vincent G Kiechlin, Gregory G Keys
  • Publication number: 20110217682
    Abstract: This invention of mine is perfect for people to prepare their bodies for the transition from a non-horse rider to a successful rider. Actually, it is used for starting to learn control, and develop the strength as well as reflexes, particularly for children needing to reduce weakness to ride. It helps the training for the tough horse riding actions. Often children never achieve to learn to ride because muscle weakness is a barrier. To do this I have created apparatus to finely tune balance and reflexes as well as to strengthen those muscles essential for horse riding. I've designed a small inflatable ball that is elevated up to an adjustable height and retained within supportive framework above a big base with curved steel runners. The inflatable ball is unstable so that the user Scan try and balance, sit or bounce on it as well as train the postures and motions for each of the horses' strides. My invention, I believe, is new.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 13, 2010
    Publication date: September 8, 2011
    Inventor: Luke William Bland
  • Publication number: 20110212424
    Abstract: The present invention method provides personal fitness trainers online training method, for use across an electronic communications network transmitting messages, exercise routines, videos, usage of the Internet and web pages “web sessions” for video and audio streaming between the personal trainer and the client one on one. The online personal fitness is a method for a database of personal trainers whom become members of the named business “Fitness Is Online” or any named business, individually consulting individual user clients, and providing all aspects of the fitness plan online, particularly email custom personalized exercise routines, workouts. The method for all purpose's including muscle building, muscle toning, cardio, aerobics, health tips, diet plans, follow up evaluation, feedback, personal workout videos, one on one web sessions, and other applicable actions implemented by the personal trainer, all personal, one on one to a client, not computer generated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Craig Smith
  • Publication number: 20110212423
    Abstract: A fly casting training apparatus includes a shaft, a ball movable within the shaft, and adjustable limit stops for setting the range of motion of the ball within the shaft. The apparatus is used to simulate a fly casting experience, with the limit stops adjustable to simulate long casting motions, short casting motions, and casting motions therebetween. The device also includes an elastic band that may be used to simulate the double haul casting method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 23, 2010
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventors: Floyd D. Dean, Janet F. Dean
  • Patent number: 8002552
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for toilet training for children or as an aid to urinary function for adults which presents two cues to the person. The first cue is an audible sound of water flowing. The second cue is visual observation of water flowing. The cues are presented in a structure which may be a rotatable hour glass shaped liquid containing device which permits the liquid to flow from one portion of the hour glass to the other when the device is rotated. A sound of flowing water is produced from sound storage means in the device. The liquid may be refilled or it may be pre-sealed at the factory. Two plates are proved at the ends of the hour glass to house a picture in one and a mirror in the other. The structure may be utilized free-standing, or attached to a rotatable base which, in turn, may be fixedly or removably mounted on a surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Inventor: Jill M. Carman