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.

Abstract: An electronic hand-muscle developer which includes a casing having a connector; a hollow flexible grip filled up with air and connected to the connector; a pressure inductor mounted in the connector to detect pressure from the hollow flexible grip; a pressure converter circuit mounted in the casing and connected to the pressure inductor to converts the pressure signal detected by the pressure inductor into a frequency signal; a microprocessor mounted in the casing to receive the frequency signal from the pressure converter, and to calculate the frequency signal so as to obtain a value; and a liquid crystal display connected to the microprocessor to display the value obtained by the microprocessor.

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 communication 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 generated 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: An exercise device having at least one shaft, and a weight attached to the shaft. The weight may be attached in a variety of ways, and the amount of weight may be varied depending on the users needs.

Abstract: A hand-held personal defense apparatus for protecting a user against an attacker includes a hollow housing defining an elongate handgrip. An aerosol canister of a defense fluid, such as tear gas, MACE.RTM. or (cayenne) pepper gas, and a battery-powered siren are positioned within the housing. The apparatus further includes a strike bar connected to the housing and extending forwardly in spaced relation from the handgrip so that the hand of the user may surroundingly grip the handgrip with the strike bar exposed on the outside of the hand. The strike bar serves as a visible deterrent to an attacker may be used as a defensive weapon against the attacker. The apparatus further includes a movable actuator button for selectively activating the alarm or the alarm and the canister of defense fluid.

Abstract: An exercise system using a plurality of exercise cycles with the users applying user exercise force at user exercise speed. The exercise system includes a display displaying user indicators moving along respective paths of travel on the display simulating the movement of cycles therealong. The paths of travel are displayed to simulate the travel of a plurality of cycles racing against each other. The exercise system further includes a display control measuring the exercise speed of the plurality of users applied to their respective exercise cycles, and determining the applied cumulative exercise efforts of the users. The display control also determines a lead user based upon which of the users has the greatest cumulative exercise effort, and determines when the cumulative exercise effort of particular ones of the users are within a preselected range less than the cumulative exercise effort of the lead user.

Abstract: A pulse controlled exercise system is disclosed which incorporates an exercise device, a monitor capable of displaying images formed from television signals, a pulse rate sensor for sensing the pulse rate of a user of the pulse controlled exercise system, and a controller. The controller is coupled to the pulse rate sensor, to the exercise device, and to the monitor. The controller is used to control the exercise device's speed and other states and to cause the pulse rate of the user to be displayed on the monitor as the user progresses through his or her exercise regimen. Moreover, disclosed is an exercise device which has circuitry to generate a television type signal which may be displayed on a monitor which is capable of displaying images formed from such television type signals.

Abstract: A pace calculation device including an oscillator and a frequency divider used for timing purposes, an amplifier and a speaker for generating a signal sound, and a CPU for performing an operation. Times taken for a runner to run any first distance twice each at a different pace to the signal sound are measured. The CPU draws a relation between a pace and a run time on the basis of data on two different paces at each of which the runner run the first distance and data on the run times taken for the runner to run. A run time taken for the runner to run at any pace any second distance which the runner should run in a target run time is measured. The CPU calculates a pace at which the runner runs the second distance in the target run time on the basis of the relation, data on the pace at which the runner run the second distance, and the run time taken for that run. The speaker generates a signal sound on the basis of data on the pace calculated by the CPU.

Abstract: An interactive exercise monitor which computes and displays time, distance, pace, and energy expended by a user performing a repetitive workout around a predetermined course employs a stationary transmitter located along the workout course and a receiver carried by the user. The stationary transmitter emits a limited range signal that is detected by the receiver each time the user passes the transmitter during the workout. The receiver includes a central processing unit into which the precise distance of the course may be preprogrammed and that is then capable of computing distance accumulated by the user, elapsed time, and other desired parameters. In addition, the user may enter information such as his or her weight and a desired time, distance, and pace of the workout into the receiver.

Abstract: A pace generating device which output a desirable pace signal automatically without stopping an exerciser from exercising and which can save consumption power. A walking detector outputs a walking signal. A walking pace calculator calculates a pace from a period of the detected walking signal and stores it. A pace comparing means compares a predetermined pace with a detected walking pace, and outputs a pace generating signal when the result of the above comparison between the detected walking pace and the predetermined pace is out of a predetermined range.

Abstract: The invention interfaces a user-powered exercise machine to a personal computer, creating a dual-mode exercise and training system with new methods of pacing ones activity in order to achieve a goal. The user determines when the exercise period will end, and sets a goal. The computer constantly displays THE REQUIRED SPEED, which is the speed that will enable the user to achieve his goal. The CALCULATED FINAL OUTCOME predicts the outcome of the exercise period, assuming that the user will continue at his current speed for the remainder of the exercise period. The user always knows how fast he will have to go to reach his goal, and always knows what the outcome will be if he maintains his current speed. This allows the user to vary his speed and still maintain a regulated overall level of activity. In the STANDARD MODE, the exercise period is a period of time, and the goal is a TARGET DISTANCE. In the TRAINING MODE, the exercise period ends when the end of the course is reached, and the goal is a TARGET TIME.

Abstract: Exercise treadmill with motor driven tread belt and means for varying the tread belt speed by a speed control system which makes available to the treadmill user a plurality of nominal speeds and also a plurality of rates of restoration of the tread belt speed upon the occurrence of a change in load on the moving tread belt resulting from the user's foot plant impact on the tread belt. By selection by the user of one of the plurality of available rates of restoration of tread belt speed, the user through the user operated speed control can select a desired "stiffness" or "softness", otherwise known as "feel", to reduce user foot plant induced stress or trauma. The preferred speed control system involves a variable speed DC motor with a microprocessor controlled SCR phase control power module, the microprocessor including program memory with plural sets of program values, each with respective delta gain, loop gain and maximum power values.

Abstract: When a lap switch is operated, data of a lap time stored in a register T is stored in a lap register pointed out by a pointer PR. An average pace for a section of a course is calculated on the basis of data of a step count for that section stored in a register H and data on the lap time for that section stored in the register T. Data on a calculated average pace is stored in a lap register. A pace difference between the present and the immediately preceding average pace is calculated and data on the pace difference is stored in an appropriate lap register. Thereafter, the pointer PR is incremented by one.

Abstract: An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and body. The apparatus comprises an exercise mechanism and a steering mechanism for manipulation by the user to achieve exercise and to indicate a direction of motion. A simulated environment is generated by a computer and displayed on a display system for the user. The user manipulates the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely navigate through the simulated environment. The computer monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display is periodically updated by the computer to provide a continuous visual display of the user's position as the user travels through the simulated environment. A plurality of the interactive exercise apparatus can be networked together to allow group participation in the simulated environment.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for pacing an athlete along a predetermined course having at least one visual marker located thereon to be used in conjunction with a prerecorded narrative message indicating when the athlete should be adjacent the visual marker and for providing motivational support to the athlete along the length of the course. The device includes a means worn by the athlete for playing back any one of a plurality of prerecorded messages, each corresponding to a specific distance and performance goal. The plurality of messages may be stored on an archival medium such as a magnetic tape or electronic chip which, when played back, produces an audio narrative message heard by the athlete. Each narrative message continuously provides the athlete an update of the time into the event, the remaining in the event, the time between successive visual markers, and motivational support.

Abstract: An apparatus for evaluation of a limb of a test subject. The apparatus generally includes a pedal or grip to secure the distal end of the limb to the apparatus and a seat to secure the proximal end of the limb to the apparatus. A motor and transmission assembly is coupled to the pedal or grip to provide a controlled load to the distal end of the limb. The apparatus also includes a measurement and control system to determine the load to be applied, and to measure and compute the force on each joint of the limb while the controlled load is applied to the limb.

Abstract: A user interface console for programming exercise parameters relating to the operation of an exercise device, including a display for displaying the value of each of the exercise parameters and a selector for selecting one of the exercise parameters to be programmed. The interface console further includes a programmer for programming the selected exercise parameter with a desired value; the programmer includes an encoder unit having a rotatable shaft, wherein the user programs the selected exercise parameter by rotating the rotatable shaft. In response, the encoder unit generates electrical signals representative of the incremental motion of the rotatable shaft. The interface console further includes a microprocessor, coupled to the programming means and the display, for receiving the electrical signals and for responsively adjusting the value of the selected exercise parameter.

Abstract: An exercise management system is disclosed for maintaining a user's level of exercise intensity (such as measured by heart rate) at a target level while exercising. In one embodiment, the system includes a movement member (such as pedals) which is engaged by the user to provide an exercise movement. The movement member is selectively adjustable to varying the intensity of exercise performed by the user. A heart rate sensor indicates the user's heart rate, and a computer adjusts the movement member in accordance with the heart rate signal to establish and maintain the user's heart rate near the target level. The user may periodically disengage the heart rate sensor for a limited time, during which time the computer maintains the user's heart rate near the target level by adjusting load in accordance with the user's rate of exercise (such as measured by rpm).

Abstract: A device which provides an exercising person information at any desired period of time about his pulse rate at that instant. The information is given as vocal information, and the device comprises an ECG unit with electrodes adapted to be attached to the human body, one of which forms part of an earphone, filter and amplification means, a speech synthesizer, and means for evaluating instantly the ECG and for giving a vocal indication of the instant pulse rate. The device is of special value for the monitoring of the pulse rate during jogging and similar types of exercise, the information being provided vocally. A preferred embodiment comprises a wireless set and/or tape recorder, with means for dimming the output of such radio or tape while a pulse rate is announced at predetermined intervals.

Abstract: A multi-functional hand weight for use by runners having a weighted body with a first end portion and a second end portion and a hand grip portion. The hand weight has sufficient weight for enhancing exercise. A signal means is provided for emitting either a light or sound signal. Switches are provided for controlling the light and the alarm. A battery selectively provides power to the light and alarm. A motion detection switch indicates a vertical orientation of the handweight by emitting light through the light transmitting first end portion and indicating a horizontal orientation by not emitting light through the first end portion.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for introducing gradual changes to an audio signal so that the changes are subliminal. The changes can involve tempo and volume, for example, and can take the form of a gentle gradient having ever increasing/decreasing ramp-like changes over a sufficient duration, or a more complex program involving several gentle gradients. In the preferred embodiment, an enhanced audio play-back device such as a portable audio cassette recorder can be programmed to subliminally alter the characteristics of a standard pre-recorded tape containing music, for example. As a motivational tool during walking, jogging or other repetitive exercise, the tempo is gradually increased over a period of time to encourage a corresponding gradual (and subliminal) increase in physical exertion by a user whose rate of movement is proportional to the tempo of the music.

Abstract: A stepping exercise apparatus with a motivational display is disclosed. The apparatus has a computer linked with the display and programmed to generate a pair of icons. One icon (the pace icon) represents a fictitious competitor exercising at a target pace, and the other icon (the user icon) represents the user. When the user exercises more slowly or more quickly than the target pace, the user icon moves behind or ahead of the pace icon, respectively. The computer is programmed to accept a user-selected target pace. Thus the user is motivated to improve his performance by competing against the pace icon. The display also contains a progress display indicating to the user his progress toward a target distance.

Abstract: A jumping machine for assisting handicapped children or children with motor deficiencies in learning how to jump rope. The machine includes a rigid or semi-rigid U-shaped jumping loop pivotally connected to a support frame. The jumping loop having handles which can be grasped by the user in order to control the position of the jumping loop.