Abstract: A dive computer that includes heart rate monitoring capability is provided. The heart rate monitoring is accomplished by a belt that fits around the diver's chest, and the information is wirelessly transmitted to the dive computer. The heart rate information may be displayed during and after a dive, and the dive computer may selectively utilize the monitored heart rate information to compensate the decompression algorithm based on workload during the dive. The dive computer can also utilize the monitored heart rate information to compensate the decompression algorithm based on workload on the surface before and/or after the dive for no fly and repetitive dive calculations.

Abstract: To enhance precision in measurement of the number of steps even when a walk cycle changes. An acceleration detecting portion outputs a walk signal corresponding to a walk of a user detected by a walk sensor. A step number counting portion of a counting portion counts each signal which is judged to be beyond a first reference cycle range by a walk cycle comparing portion among signals from the acceleration detecting portion as the number of steps for one step, and when an extra-regulation step number processing portion judges that a predetermined number of signals each within a second reference cycle range among the signals each beyond the first reference cycle range is continuously outputted, counts the predetermined number of signals as the predetermined number of steps.

Abstract: A jump takeoff position indicator system that discloses the point of takeoff of a long jump or triple jump in athletic competition or practice when an athlete's foot comes in contact with a takeoff board when beginning a jump. A plurality of light beams are emitted parallel to the edge of the takeoff board. The light beams are closely spaced, parallel to each other, and transverse to the direction of the jump. The foot position is known by the location of the beams broken at takeoff. A light beam detector detects interruption of the light beams by an athlete's foot and displays the takeoff position on a plurality of visible LEDs. The system provides a memory for storing the takeoff position and recall switch for retrieving and displaying the information after completion of the jump. The system is immune from ambient light disturbances and can easily be moved between multiple takeoff board locations. Microcontrollers are employed in a modular fashion for system control.

Abstract: Exercise device and method in which one or more generally planar blades with major surfaces are attached to the ends of an exercise bar. The bar is gripped with the hands and moved in a direction generally perpendicular to the major surfaces, with movement of the bar being resisted by air resistance encountered by the blades.

Abstract: An aerobic exercise system for encouraging a person to exercise more which includes a doll having movable extremities which at least include arms and legs which are capable of moving in a predetermined aerobic manner. An aerobic video displays predetermined movements to be performed by the doll. There is a chip disposed within such doll which is connected to the arms and legs for causing predetermined aerobic movements of the doll which correspond to movements of the aerobic video. Additionally, there is at least one aerobic type bench for the doll to perform such predetermined aerobic exercises on.

Abstract: A wrist exerciser includes a casing comprised of upper and lower casing members mounted together to form a substantially spherical shape. A rotor has opposite shafts rotatably received in the holes defined in the casing for rotatably supporting the rotor in the casing. Illumination elements are mounted on an outside surface of the rotor. A power source is fixed in the rotor for powering the illumination elements. A control circuit is in electrical connection with the power source and the illumination elements for selectively lighting the illumination elements. A transmission device is mounted in the rotor and has an interface circuit connected to the control circuit and a socket connector in connection with the interface circuit.

Abstract: A methodology is disclosed for providing a physical therapy practitioner with practice-specific prescriptive exercise routine depictions as an effective way to enhance compliance of a home-based physical therapy regimen. The method comprises various steps, including assessing a given practitioner's commonly prescribed home-based exercise prescriptions, selecting certain of the exercises for comparison relative to a previously compiled digitized motion picture library containing excerpts showing various exercises. A decision is then made as to whether a representative exercise excerpt is endemic to the physical therapy practitioner. If the excerpt(s) are deemed satisfactory, DVD's are developed and provided to the practitioner. The practitioner may then properly prescribe a home-based physical therapy regimen during an office visit at which time a select set of the developed DVD materials are delivered to the patient.

Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise amount measuring device using as an exercise signal generator an inclination detector commercially available, which can detect two-dimensional movements. Use of such inclination detectors facilitates the assembly of exercise amount measuring devices. The inclination detector 1 is connected to a counter circuit via an input circuit, and the input circuit and the counter circuit are connected to an MPU via an input-and-output port. The input circuit comprises a CR circuit or a flip-flop circuit. The counter circuit counts input pulses post-chattering exclusion, which input pulses are caused by the on-and-off switching actions, which are brought every time the contact ball touches selected contact electrodes in the inclination detector.

Abstract: A personal training device (10) adapted to assist a user in reaching performance goals, navigating, and accumulating performance statistics. In a preferred embodiment, the device broadly comprises a housing (10); an attachment mechanism (30); a GPS component (40); a user interface (50), including an input portion (52) and an output portion (54); a processor (60), including a timer (62) and a memory element (64); a data interface (70), including an input portion (72) and an output portion (74); an audio component (80); and a power supply (90). The device (10) is adapted to store goal information, monitor performance using GPS-derived data, and communicate performance information.

Abstract: A pedometer for detecting vibrations in a direction of motion is disclosed. The architecture of the device includes a main body, a vibration detector, and a counting circuit. The counting circuit is connected to the vibration detector and the counting circuit and vibration detector are installed inside the main body. Since the vibration detector is disposed orthogonal to the direction of motion, the vibration detector is able to detect the smallest vibration in the direction of motion and outputs a pulse signal to the counting circuit. The counting circuit includes a signal amplifier circuit, a signal detection circuit, and a processor. This pedometer is capable of picking up weak vibration signals to take an accurate count of the jogger's pace.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electronic wrist-worn device, such as a heart rate monitor, a sportsman's watch or a diving computer, and its control method. The outside of the casing of the device comprises a bottom surface to be placed against the wrist, a top surface (304), and a side surface (308) between the bottom surface and the top surface (304). On the top surface (304) of the casing there is provided a first display (306) connected to the control electronics. On the side surface (308) of the casing there is provided a second display (400, 402, 404; 406) connected to the control electronics. The best viewing angle of the first display (306) and the best viewing angle of the second display (400, 402, 404; 406) are at an angle of 60 to 120 degrees with respect to each other.

Abstract: A treadmill operation mode control system for use in a treadmill is disclosed include two ultrasonic transmitter receiver units respectively installed in the upright support of the base frame of the treadmill at two sides, and a microprocessor electrically connected between the ultrasonic transmitter receiver units and the instrument panel of the treadmill and adapted to accelerate the speed of the treadbase motor of the treadmill when the user moving a part of the body toward one ultrasonic transmitter receiver unit, or to reduce the speed of the treadbase motor when the user moving a part of the body toward the other ultrasonic transmitter receiver unit.

Abstract: There is provided a system capable of estimating biological data such as a pulse at the time of walking (exercise) with good reproducibility. Biological data at the time of walking is estimated indirectly by acquiring a relationship between biological data and exercise stress levels in body burden capacity acquiring means 21 prior to walking, acquiring an exercise stress level at the time of walking in means 22 for acquiring an exercise stress level at the time of walking, and relating the exercise stress level at the time of walking to the relationship between biological data and exercise stress levels in means 23 for estimating biological data at the time of walking. Further, a walking amount is also computed by use of the biological data at the time of walking in walking amount computing means 24.

Abstract: A body motion detector, to be attached to or carried by a user for detecting body motions of the user, uses a plurality of sensors each for detecting body motions in a specified direction to output a body motion signal according to the user's body motion. These sensors are disposed so as to detect the body motion in different directions. One of these sensors are selected by carrying out calculations on signals outputted from the sensors. The user's body motion is detected by using selectively output signals from the selected body motion sensor. The body motion detector may also include a component for detecting the orientation of the body motion detector itself from signals outputted from these sensors and another component for detecting the user's body motions by carrying out calculations on the signals outputted from these sensors, corresponding to the orientation as detected by the orientation detecting component.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a gait rehabilitation aid and to a method for aiding gait rehabilitation. The gait rehabilitation aid resides in a treadmill having a belt which speed matches a user's own step cycle based on let length and which provides feedback in the form of an evaluation with respect to the user's length, cadence, gait velocity and gait pattern. A controller that is responsive to a user input device is employed to input information that inputs information pertaining to any one of cadence and leg length sets the belt speed to match an appropriate step cycle. In addition, footprints are scrolled on a display together with foot falls that correspond to actual heel strike events on the treadmill belt. The footprints appear in accordance with the user's own step cycle.

Abstract: An electronic activity monitor for monitoring the performance of an activity such as an exercise comprises an activity detector responsive to motion associated with the performance of the activity to output a corresponding signal, a processor for receiving the signal and determining a starting address at which a block of corresponding sound data is stored, a memory for storing sound data corresponding to a plurality of values associated with the monitored activity, the sound data preferably comprising data representing a voice representation of the values, and a speech generator for generating a naturally-sounding human voice or reproducing a pre-stored version of an actual human voice or other audible indicia in accordance with the sound data stored in the memory. The speech generator is controlled by the processor in response to the activity detector to provide a verbal representation of the user's performance of the activity.

Abstract: Disclosed is an exercise amount measuring device using as an exercise signal generator an inclination detector commercially available, which can detect two-dimensional movements. Use of such inclination detectors facilitates the assembling of exercise amount measuring devices.

Abstract: A turning control device for a virtual stationary bike includes a video monitor and a computer program. The program is driven by a flywheel of the bike to show images of a rider on the bike on a road. A control case is fixed at the lower end of the handle with a sensor fixed inside for sending signals, with a shade plate that moves with the handle. The shade plate is positioned between two circuit boards, and has a plurality of opening for controlling lights emitted by electronic elements of the two circuit boards. The handle Controls the shade and the sensor to send out different signals so that the video monitor shows images of the rider on the bike moving in directions according to the command of the computer program, permitting the rider to feel as though he were riding on a road to enhance the pleasure of exercise.

Abstract: The invention is directed to apparatus and a method of playing a skill game, conducting exercise, or learning movements such as dance steps. Ordinarily, it would be used for contact by the feet, but it could be used for contact by the hands, particularly in connection with physical therapy activity or the like. The contact surfaces are arranged in a coordinated pattern that may consist of a matrix of adjacent colored illuminatable tiles or simply stepping stones positioned in a random array perhaps quite different from a regular matrix. 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. Changes may also be made in a regular repeatable pattern with predetermined timing rhythms of a dance or may be made variable so that they may be slowed or quickened in therapy as the patient progresses.

Abstract: An interactive video display and computer system which provides changing video images in response to a combination of signals received from repetitive body movements and voice commands. The system comprises a pace sensing apparatus which is worn on the user's body which senses the repetitive body motion, translates that motion into a signal and transmits the pace signal to a signal receiver, which translates the signal into a signal readily recognized by a computer and then delivers the signal to the computer system. The system further comprises a voice receiving mechanism for receiving voice commands and transmitting a voice signal to the computer system. The user controls the perceived rate of motion and perceived direction of travel, as well as other aspects of the video image, by pace and voice.

Abstract: A piece of exercise equipment includes an electronic game of chance connected thereto. A switch or other device may also be connected to the combination system to operate the electronic game of change when the piece of exercise equipment is in use. The combination system also includes a controller which detects a combined action of playing the electronic game of chance and using the exercise equipment. The system electronically connects the gambling device to the piece of exercise equipment and detects when an operator is using both the exercise equipment and the electronic game of chance simultaneously.

Abstract: An electronic jump rope that generates beat tracks or sound segments in response to user actuation of switches is disclosed. In one embodiment, the electronic jump rope is provided with a first handle (12), a second handle (14) and a flexible element (16) connected between the first and second handles (12, 14). One of said first and second handles (12, 14) having a first switch (22), a second switch (20), a speaker (50) and a sound generator (90) disposed therein. The sound generator (90) includes a memory (108, 110), a processor (106) and an input/output circuit (106) and is operatively coupled to said first and second switches (20, 22) and said speaker (50), said sound generator (90) being programmed to cause said speaker (50) to play a beat track when said second switch (20) is actuated and programmed to cause said speaker (50) to play a sound segment when said first switch (22) is actuated.

Abstract: A system for measuring the speed of a person while running or walking along a surface. A single acceleration sensor measures the acceleration in the forward direction and provides an acceleration signal which is amplified and subsequently sampled by analog to digital converter. The digital signal is processed by a microprocessor which executes an algorithm that determines the stride length and the stride duration from the digitized acceleration signal and calculates the speed and the distance traversed. The information thus obtained is transmitted by means of a radio frequency transmitter and received by a radio frequency receiver in a watch or other device which comprises a display which can be viewed by the runner or walker. The speed and distance traversed is displayed on the display, along with other useful information, such as average speed, maximum speed, total distance traversed, calories expended, and heart beat.

Abstract: A swing tempo training device is provided which may be used to teach proper swing tempo. The disclosed swing tempo training device comprises an accelerometer coupled to a voltage-to-frequency converter, and an output means coupled to the voltage-to-frequency converter. The accelerometer measures the real-time acceleration of a swinging object and produces a first voltage signal with a voltage level related to the measured real-time acceleration. The voltage-to-frequency converter then converters the first voltage signal into a second voltage signal with a frequency related to the first voltage level. The output means then outputs the second voltage signal. Preferably the output means comprises a frequency modulator and a FM transmitter.

Abstract: A pedometer includes a main body 1, two acceleration sensors 3 and 4 supported in an oscillating manner in a horizontal direction and a vertical direction at a substrate 2 within the main body 1, an angle detection sensor 5 for detecting an angle of inclination of main body 1 to the ground, and a pace counter for selecting output of either acceleration sensor 3 or 4 according to an output of angle detection sensor 5 for counting the number of paces thereby.

Abstract: An educational game is disclosed which uses a series of illumination devices which are sequentially illuminated to illustrate to a user a velocity. The user selectively chooses the velocity at which the illumination devices are sequenced and therefore can race against the sequence of illumination devices or monitor same. In either event, the sequence of illumination devices having been illuminated at the selected speed, allowing the user to interact, using mind and body with the phenomenon of speed allowing the user to experiment with concepts of speed and velocity. A further embodiment is shown wherein a series of audible devices in conjunction with the illumination devices are selectively actuated to illustrate to the user the velocity.

Abstract: A training apparatus for improving the performance of a swimmer. In a first aspect of the invention, a propeller rotates about an axis which is aligned with the path of the swimmer. A permanent magnet driven by the propeller attached to the swimmer produces a rotating magnetic field which acts on a magnetic field transducer to produce a pulsating signal whose frequency varies directly with the swimmer's speed. The sensor's output is multiplied, amplified and fed to an earphone worn by the swimmer. Changes in frequency immediately inform the swimmer of whether his performance has improved or deteriorated. In a second aspect of the invention, permanent magnets are mounted on vanes of an impeller which rotate about a horizontal axis which is at right angles to the path of the swimmer. Rotating magnetic fields of the permanent magnets act on a magnetic field sensor to produce a pulsating signal whose frequency varies with the swimmer's speed.

Abstract: A swing tempo training device is provided which may be used to teach proper swing tempo. The disclosed swing tempo training device comprises an accelerometer coupled to a voltage-to-frequency converter, and an output coupled to the voltage-to-frequency converter. The accelerometer measures the real-time acceleration of a swinging object and produces a first voltage signal with a voltage level related to the measured real-time acceleration. The voltage-to-frequency converter then converters the first voltage signal into a second voltage signal with a frequency related to the first voltage level. The output then outputs the second voltage signal. Preferably the output comprises a frequency modulator and a FM transmitter.

Abstract: A training method with a visual display for a swimmer. A compact apparatus is mounted on a mid-portion of a swimmer for generating a fluctuating signal which varies in frequency according to the speed of the swimmer. The swimmer changes his form and/or movement to vary the frequency of the signal. The signal is processed to produce a fluctuating visual signal which is communicated by a visual display to the swimmer to immediately inform him whether the change in form or movement has increased or decreased his speed.

Abstract: The invention presents a step count data control system allowing to walk easily and continuously in order to improve health or maintain health, which includes step counting means for counting the number of steps, input means 11 for entering the step count data, recording means 12 for recording daily step count data entered by the input means 11, operating means 14, 15, 16 for operating according to the step count data, and output means 17, 18 for issuing data, in which the step count data entered by the input means 11 and recorded in the recording means 12 is operated in the operating means 14, 15, 16, and the average in a month, the total, the target value in a month, the walking distance converted from the step count, evaluation, past record and its comparison, advice, comment and other data are issued to the output means 17, 18.

Abstract: A track runner pacing device is provided including a running track. A pacer housing is adapted to move around the running track. A control mechanism serves to effect the movement of the pacer housing about the track at a speed calculated from a distance and time entered into the control means by a user.

Abstract: A programmable pacing device for helping a user to achieve a desired pace or tempo. The device is capable of emitting a plurality of different audible signals, each signal conveying selected pacing information to the user, and may be used by athletes to help in training or race pacing. The device may comprise a single unit or two separate units; an input unit and a signaling unit and as a single unit the device may form part of a pair of swimming goggles.

Abstract: An exercise device is provided having a resilient or flexible front impact surface and a plurality of identification indicia for identifying target areas on the flexible impact surface. The exercise device preferably utilizes lights as the identification indicia that are resiliently mounted to the exercise device which are sequentially operated by a microprocessor to force an athlete to contact the identified area on the impact surface while speed, strength and agility may be measured and analyzed by the microprocessor. The software for operating the microprocessor provides a wide range of workout levels and routines and imparts the ability to identify weak areas in the performance of the athlete and provide specific future training routines to improve overall performance in speed, agility and power.

Abstract: An athletic performance evaluation device utilizes ultrasonic sensing circuitry or infrared sensing circuitry, a vibration sensitive switch, and an audio input to signal a microprocessor to start a timing function that calculates therefrom an objective evaluation of the athlete's performance. A light emitting diode (LED) may be included in the apparatus to signal the athlete to begin performance while simultaneously starting the timing function. The vibration sensitive switch may be placed on the ground adjacent to a selected position on which the athlete stands to stop the timing function. In operation, the athlete jumps and the ultrasonic sensor signals the microprocessor to begin the timing function and the vibration sensor sends a second signal to stop the timing function when the athlete lands again. The interval between signals is used in distance formula h=g(I/2).sup.

Abstract: A wafer-like alert unit is disclosed which is affixed to a body surface in a private and discrete manner and provides a private or silent stimulus such as a vibrational signal to the user at selected time intervals to remind the user to flex adjacent muscle groups or to perform isometric exercise. The alert unit is designed to be worn imperceptibly to the public and provide a private and discrete way to maintain an exercise regimen without any wires or bulky control boxes. The alert unit is mounted directly to the body using adhesive or alternatively fitted in a self-adhesive pouch or pocket which is then secured to the body. The alert unit may also be inserted into a fabric pouch that is sewn into an undergarment which is then worn in the normal manner. The alert unit includes a power source such as a battery, a motor which creates a vibrational signal, a power switch, a timer, and means for inputting variable interval settings to allow the user to tailor his or her exercise regimen as needed.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus for exercising and enhancing human agility and reaction time skills involving the mental and physical ability to act quickly and move rapidly in reacting to events and objects that invade the space immediately surrounding a person. The apparatus has one or more bases surrounding the area where the subject stands. The bases generate visible bars of light at all heights and orientations. The subject has to jump over, or duck his body to avoid intercepting the light bars. The motion of the bars is supplemented by audio which adds motion sounds as well as musical tones. The height. the rate of motion of the bars along with the orientation of their movement is settable and controllable by the user in periodic and random modes. Means are provided that enable the light bar to come to a stop against the body of the exercise subject like a physical bar.

Abstract: A physical exercise video system includes a physical exercise machine (22), a video system (24) and an interface module (26). The video system (24) has a computer (28) and a removable cartridge (34). The interface module (26) is interposed between the computer (28) and cartridge (34), and provides interactive communications between the computer (28) and exercise machine (22). A communication protocol governs this communication, and includes specifications for status and command data packets. The video system (24) and exercise machine (22) can be selectively operated as either stand-alone units, or in an interactive exercise mode, wherein the exercise data by the exercise machine (22) affects the output of the video system (24), and may also be stored in memory within the interface module (26). The video system (24) controls the operation of the exercise machine (22) generally, and specifically, controls the load resistance imposed in opposition to the movement of pedals (66).

Abstract: Cardiopulmonary interval training between a user high target heart rate and a user low target heart rate is obtained with an exercise apparatus by increasing the load of the exercise apparatus at a first predetermined rate until either the maximum machine load is obtained or the high target heart rate. When this event occurs, the load can then be maintained at a fixed level for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the load is decreased until the low target heart rate is obtained, or the user-set exercise duration expired. The heart rate of the user is monitored during the exercise. In the event that measurement of a valid heart signal is lost at any time, any increase or decrease of the load of the exercise apparatus is terminated until a valid heart rate signal is reacquired. In the case when an exercise apparatus is a treadmill, the load can be varied by increasing or decreasing both the speed adjustment and the elevation adjustment of the treadmill.

Abstract: An exercise machine providing selectively variable rhythmic audible accompaniment for torso twisting and arm thrusting motions. The machine has three rotatably mounted foot platforms and two upwardly projecting, pivotable hand levers. Two of the three foot platforms are located proximate to and equidistant from the hand levers and the remaining foot platform is located distally from the hand levers. The hand levers are adjustable as to resistance to pivoting, and alternatively may be fixed in place if arm motions are not desired. A music synthesizer controls tempo of exercises. Tempo, beat, volume, and other characteristics of the music may be controlled by the user. A microprocessor sums the number and frequency of body motions and calculates energy expended while exercising. This information is transmitted to a display visible to the user.

Abstract: Cardiopulmonary interval training between a user high target heart rate and a user low target heart rate is obtained with an exercise apparatus by increasing the load of the exercise apparatus at a first predetermined rate until either the maximum machine load is obtained or the high target heart rate. When this event occurs, the load can then be maintained at a fixed level for a predetermined time. Thereafter, the load is decreased until the low target heart rate is obtained, or the user-set exercise duration expired. The heart rate of the user is continuously monitored during the exercise. In the event that measurement of a valid heart signal is lost at any time, any increase or decrease of the load of the exercise apparatus is terminated until a valid heart rate signal is reacquired. In the case when an exercise apparatus is a treadmill, the load can be varied by increasing or decreasing both the speed adjustment and the elevation adjustment of the treadmill.

Abstract: A user-motion-response type exercise equipment capable of changing the moving speed of the moving belt surface so as to follow the running speed of the runner from the start to end of running. The equipment includes an endless belt mechanism having a moving surface for the user (runner) to walk or run on, a driving mechanism for driving the endless belt mechanism to move the moving belt surface at a speed in accordance with a control signal supplied externally, a position detector for detecting the user's position on the moving belt surface, and a controller for performing a control action combining a proportional control action and an integral control action in parallel in accordance with the user's position on the moving belt surface detected by the position detector as the controlled variable, and generating a control signal supplied externally to the driving mechanism and sending the control signal to the driving mechanism.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises an exercise mechanism, a steering mechanism, and a control mechanism for manipulation by the user to achieve exercise, to indicate a direction of motion, and to interact with virtual objects in a simulated environment. The exercise mechanism can be, for example, the steps of a stair climbing simulator or the pedals of a bicycle, preferably a recumbent bicycle. A simulated environment (e.g., an interactive simulated three-dimensional environment or an interactive simulated three-dimensional fluid environment) is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system for the user. In one embodiment, the simulated environment comprises an enclosed space representing a game field. In this embodiment, an interactive competitive ball game is played using networked exercise apparatus.

Abstract: An exercise display system for aiding a user in maintaining a desired exercise intensity level includes input means for inputting relevant physiological information about the user, calculation means for calculating a spectrum of exercise intensity levels, sensor for detecting the physiological condition of the user during exercise, and display means (32) for displaying the user's exercise intensity within a first scale (20) of at least two levels (22) of possible exercise intensities. The scale (20) includes a Below Training Zone (23), a Weight Loss Training Zone (24), a Cardiovascular Training Zone (25), and an Above Training Zone (26). The display means (32) also includes a second scale (28) of subdivisions (30) of intensity levels, e.g., maximum heart rate percentages or range of heart beat rates. The subdivisions (30) may preferably flash or may be caused to turn a specific color when the exerciser's physiological condition is represented by that subdivision.

Abstract: An exercise display system for aiding a user in maintaining a desired exercise intensity level includes input means for inputting relevant physiological information about the user, calculation means for calculating a spectrum of exercise intensity levels, sensor for detecting the physiological condition of the user during exercise, and display means (32) for displaying the user's exercise intensity within a first scale (20) of at least two levels (22) of possible exercise intensities. The scale (20) includes a Below Training Zone (23), a Weight Loss Training Zone (24), a Cardiovascular Training Zone (25), and an Above Training Zone (26). The display means (32) also includes a second scale (28) of subdivisions (30) of intensity levels, e.g., maximum heart rate percentages or range of heart beat rates. The subdivisions (30) may preferably flash or may be caused to turn a specific color when the exerciser's physiological condition is represented by that subdivision.

Abstract: A data acquisition device includes a receiver operable to receive a stream of data, a first input device operable to supply an identifier to identify data from the stream of data received by the receiver, a second input device operable to produce a signal indicative that data from the stream of data received by the receiver is valid, and storage operable to store the identifier supplied by the first input device in combination with data from the stream of data received by the receiver. The data acquisition device also includes a controller operable to operate the device in a monitor mode in which data from the stream of data received by the receiver is monitored and an actual measurement mode in which data from the stream of data received by the receiver is stored in the storage along with the identifier supplied by the first input device.

Abstract: A training apparatus for improving the performance of a swimmer. In a first aspect of the invention, a propeller rotates about an axis which is aligned with the path of the swimmer. A permanent magnet driven by the propeller attached to the swimmer produces a rotating magnetic field which acts on a magnetic field transducer to produce a pulsating signal whose frequency varies directly with the swimmer's speed. The sensor's output is multiplied, amplified and fed to an earphone worn by the swimmer. Changes in frequency immediately inform the swimmer of whether his performance has improved or deteriorated.In a second aspect of the invention, permanent magnets are mounted on vanes of an impeller which rotate about a horizontal axis which is at right angles to the path of the swimmer. Rotating magnetic fields of the permanent magnets act on a magnetic field sensor to produce a pulsating signal whose frequency varies with the swimmer's speed.

Abstract: A swimmer's goggles incorporating an electronic timer and display for displaying the times of a swimmer with a display accessible to a swimmer connected to the goggles. An accelerometer is used to determine a swimmer's movement with an electronic circuit for processing the information from the accelerometer to determine a swimmer's movements and time between movements.

Abstract: A crime prevention device including a housing adapted for positioning upon a face of a wearer over eyes thereof. An elastic band has opposing free ends secured to the housing for securement of the housing upon the face of the wearer. A plurality of pressure switches are disposed within the elastic band and an upper portion of the housing. A plurality of skin contacts are disposed within the upper portion of the inner surface of the housing between the plurality of pressure switches. A charger and transmitter is disposed within the housing. The charger and transmitter is electrically coupled with the plurality of skin contacts. A central processing unit is disposed in a location remote from the housing. The central processing unit cooperates with the plurality of skin contacts and the charger and transmitter. An alarm is disposed in a location remote from the housing. The alarm cooperates with the charger and transmitter.

Abstract: A computerized exercise game machine provides continuous and instantaneous feedback to the exerciser or user to maintain the user's exercise goal in real time. The exercise goal is updated by the computer system each time the user uses the exercise game machine. The machine includes a fixed frame and moveable component. A signal is generated in response to the speed of movement of the moveable component. The user or exerciser is prompted to maintain a video object representing the user within a shadow object or domain on the video screen. The shadow object represents the exercise goal, such as running at five miles per hour. Different video objects are utilized for users of different physical fitness levels. A shadow object (domain) or course environment is associated with each different video object. The game machine may also provide feedback to the exercise device to control the speed of movement or resistance to movement, slope, such as raising or lowering a treadmill or curve simulation.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus combined with a video game computer that allows the exerciser to interactively participate in the video game whereby the exerciser's advancement in the video game depends on his rate of exercise and hand-eye coordination. The exercise apparatus provides entertainment and a positive mental distraction from the boring physical exercising experience by enabling multi-sensor feedback between the user and video game simulation. This exercise apparatus has the ability to interface with any exercise device that the user prefers and it will also work with non-equipment exercising methods.