Abstract: A runaway protection mechanism is provided which is truly nondestructive in nature and which is highly advantageous for an electric motor used in, for example, an exercise treadmill for driving its moving treadmill belt. In use, the electric motor is connected to an electric power source, such as an alternating-current wall outlet. The runaway protection mechanism includes a disconnect mechanism for disconnecting the motor from the electric power source and thereby deenergizing the motor. The runaway protection mechanism further includes a safety mechanism for comparing the actual motor speed with a desired motor speed and activating the disconnect mechanism when the actual speed exceeds the desired speed by a predetermined amount. In this manner, an orderly and nondestructive shutdown of the motor is accomplished when a fault condition is recognized.

Abstract: An abdominal breathing device is composed of an air pump, an inhaling-exhaling mechanism, and an air bag connected with the inhaling-exhaling mechanism by an air tube. The air bag is strapped around the abdomen of a person undertaking the abdominal breathing and is then inflated by the air pump in conjunction with the inhaling-exhaling mechanism, so as to force the abdomen of the person to contract to exhale air. The inflated air bag is deflated by the abdominal expansion caused by the inhaling of air by the person in conjunction with the inhaling-exhaling mechanism.

Abstract: A training apparatus includes a training device, an operation detection unit, a training condition calculation unit, an image display processing unit, and a display unit. The training device has a movable unit which is displaced according to an action of a trainee who is training with reference to a training image. The operation detection unit detects a displacement of the movable unit during training. The training condition calculation unit calculates a training condition of next time on the basis of a detection result from the operation detection unit in training immediately before and a training condition immediately before. The image display processing unit prepares, on the basis of the training condition obtained by the training condition calculation unit, training image data which changes according to the detection result from the operation detection unit in training under the obtained training condition.

Abstract: A method and system for passively exercising a selected portion of a human body by applying a partial vacuum pressure to the selected portion of the human body; maintaining the partial vacuum pressure applied to the selected portion of the human body for a first predetermined period of time; releasing the partial vacuum pressure so that substantially atmospheric pressure is applied to the selected portion of the human body; and maintaining the substantially atmospheric pressure applied to the selected portion of the human body for a second predetermined period of time.

Abstract: A system providing for personalized real-time instructions for physical fitness training. A data storage medium stores data comprising a set of instructions for physical fitness training on one or more tracks. A playback device reads the instructions stored on the data storage medium and converts them to an audio signal. An audio speaker connected to the playback device provides the audio signal, comprising the set of instructions, to a user located proximate the speaker.

Abstract: A data-using game system 10 comprises data forming devices 11, 12 and 13 which form operational data based on results of operation by an operator, a data card 16 in which the operational data formed by the data forming device are written, and game devices 14 and 15 which read the operational data from the data card to reflect the operational data on game play of the game devices 14 and 15. The data-using game system 10 enables the operator of the system to positively participate in both games and physical training by using operational data that the operator has obtained.

Abstract: An interactive aerobic exercise machine has a support frame assembly with two parallel, spaced apart vertical frames, an obstacle rod rotatably mounted on each vertical frame, and a motor for rotating each obstacle rod at selected rotation speeds. The rotating obstacle rods allow a user to exercise a variety of different muscles while the user is also developing depth perception, timing, reaction, agility, coordination, and aerobic fitness. In a particular embodiment, each motor is slidably mounted on the vertical frame for vertically positioning the obstacle rods at a variety of vertical locations. The machine may further include a crank rod connected to the motor and a pivot block assembly connecting the crank rod to the obstacle rod, where the pivot block assembly permits the obstacle rod to move in any direction in response to encountering an obstacle to prevent injury to a user.

Abstract: A method and system for providing physical therapy to a human client having a physical condition includes the steps of providing an electronic communication link between the client and a therapist, instructing the client to move in a particular manner, or to assume a sustained posture or perform a test. Then, feedback is requested from the client. The feedback relates to bodily sensation corresponding to the movement or sustained posture and can be audio, video, and/or data type feedback. The communication link communicates the feedback to the therapist. Accordingly, the therapist utilizes the feedback to assess the physical condition of the client. The therapist also communicates remedial movements or a remedial sustained posture to the client to address the physical condition. Various postural measurements and testing devices are be used in conjunction with the present invention to facilitate assessment and help address the physical condition in accordance with accepted physical therapy techniques.

Abstract: A bedside wellness system is provided with an exercise load providing unit for providing a load of a physical exercise for a user who lies in bed, and for measuring a movement of the user who is doing the physical exercise, a virtual reality environment providing unit for providing the user with a virtual reality environment which causes user's plural human senses to work according to the contents of the virtual reality environment, and a control unit for controlling the virtual reality environment provided by the virtual reality environment providing unit according to the user's movement measured by the exercise load providing unit.

Abstract: An exercise machine having a user interface engaged by a user to perform exercises using the exercise machine is disclosed in which an electric, direct current (DC), servo control motor is used as the force producing element to which the user interface is mechanically connected and in which a digital data processor, operatively connected to the electric motor, is used for monitoring the position and direction of movement of the linkage relative to the electric DC servo motor and for controlling the electric DC servo motor to operate as one of a generator or a motor depending upon the determined position and direction of movement of the linkage is disclosed. The force exerted by the electric motor, whether it is operating as a motor or a generator, is dependant upon the position and direction of movement of the mechanical linkage as well as upon the force exerted by the user on the mechanical linkage, and other parameters, depending upon which one of three modes of operation is selected.

Abstract: An exercise and game playing system combined, forming a method in which the user gets large muscle physical exercise while at the same time is challenged with game play. There is a torso and limb mounted electronic section incorporating accelerometers, strain gauges, and other instruments, and a microprocessor, and a short range radio or wire link to a stationary base station and a display station. Body activity and exercise produce a display icon responsive to the degree and vigor of body activity. The display is a TV type screen or a head band mounted assembly or goggles of a virtual reality system. The accelerometer signals are double integrated and manipulated to produce useful display on the screen. There is net cursor advancement activity on the screen even when the body returns to the same location, accomplished by introduction of a dead zone in the accelerometer integration paths.

Abstract: An exercise bed is composed of a front bed frame, a rear bed frame fastened pivotally with the front bed frame, a movable frame fastened with the rear bed frame and provided with a plurality of soft rollers arranged at various levels, a transmission motor mounted under the rear bed frame and connected with the movable frame, and an elastic cord fastened under the front bed frame and the rear bed frame. As the transmission motor is started, a pivoting portion of the front bed frame and the rear bed frame is actuated to bulge to urge the backbone and the back muscles of a person lying on the exercise bed.

Abstract: A computer can be built into a pre-existing exercise machine so that the person using the machine can view the screen on the computer monitor while engaged in aerobic exercise activity. Keyboard mechanisms are secured to hand rails of the machine, whereby the person can operate the keyboards without releasing his grip on the hand rails. The computer monitor is adjustably supported to provide persons of different heights and head positionments a good view of the viewing screen on the monitor.

Abstract: An exoskeleton for the support of a patient's body is jointed opposite the hip and knee articulations, and is provided with a number of small actuators that are designed to move jointed parts of the exoskeleton in accordance with the human gait. A control unit is programmed to control the operation of the actuators so as to impress on the exoskeleton the movements of the human gait. A remote control for operation of the control unit allows the patient to transmit commands to the unit in order to start or stop the lower limbs, as well as to adjust the step speed. An electronic virtual reality unit transmits to the patient, through a special helmet, virtual reality pictures and stimulation interactive with the walking movement that is impressed by the exoskeleton on the patient's body. A framework can be used to steady and support the person and allow the person to walk at the same time, and has grips having operating push buttons for the remote control unit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for exercise equipment and exercise is provided. One or more exercise monitors are attached to a piece of exercise equipment and/or an exerciser. During exercise, each exercise monitor measures a performance level of the exerciser and outputs a performance level signal to a video game player. The video game player monitors the performance level signal and controls the performance level of a video game character based on the performance level of the exerciser. Many exerciser performance levels may be monitor such as pulse rate, exercise rate, distance traveled, time exercised, etc. and can be used to control such video game character performance levels as speed, striking force, energy level, lifetime, game level, etc. The video game player preferably comprises a hand-held video game player.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for recording, displaying, and analyzing data regarding a weightlifting workout, specifically, weight, repetitions, and sets performed for each of various exercises. The apparatus includes a data memory and a means for inputting a plurality of data sets into the data memory. The method includes the step of inputting a plurality of data sets into a data memory. Each of the data sets comprises a weight and a number of repetitions.

Abstract: A data-using game system 10 comprises data forming devices 11, 12 and 13 which form operational data based on results of operation by an operator, a data card 16 in which the operational data formed by the data forming device are written, and game devices 14 and 15 which read the operational data from the data card to reflect the operational data on game play of the game devices 14 and 15. The data-using game system 10 enables the operator of the system to positively participate in both games and physical training by using operational data that the operator has obtained.

Abstract: A wearable device that includes a flexible body that can be secured around a wearer. The flexible body includes an integrated circuit, a flexible display element, and circuitry for controlling the display element.

Abstract: A system for programming training on exercise apparatus, with a series of exercises defining a personalized program, includes a central unit with first processor and a bi-directional data transferor; a portable medium, with a portable memory for data storage; a plurality of stations, not connected to one another by a data transmission line, and located at the exercise apparatus, with a second processor and a bi-directional data transferor from and to the portable medium, so as to receive as input the data in the portable memory relative to the exercise to be performed on an individual apparatus, for programming the apparatus, and so as to transfer as output to the portable memory upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the performance of the exercise so as to allow such data to be controlled.

Abstract: An improved user monitor 102 is a component of the illustrated monitoring system. This system includes a master data processor in the form of a computer 101 arranged to store physical parameter data for a plurality of users. Each user is provided with a user monitor 102 which is arranged to monitor at least one physical parameter of the user during exercise and store data relating to the physical parameter. This data can subsequently be transmitted to the master data processor by pulse transmission from the user monitor down a telephone line 103. The master data processor then compares the received data with the stored data for the user in order to enable monitoring of the progress of the user in an exercise regimen which has been preset for him.At the end of each exercise, the exercise monitor screen shows an effort rating of "EFFORT 12".The client can alter the number anywhere from 6 to 20 by using the keypad 14 on the face of the exercise monitor.

Abstract: A system for programming training on exercise apparatus, with a series of exercises defining a personalized program, includes a central unit with first processor and a bi-directional data transferor; a portable medium, with a portable memory for data storage; a plurality of stations, not connected to one another by a data transmission line, and located at the exercise apparatus, with a second processor and a bi-directional data transferor from and to the portable medium, so as to receive as input the data in the portable memory relative to the exercise to be performed on an individual apparatus, for programming the apparatus, and so as to transfer as output to the portable memory upon completion of the exercise, data relative to the performance of the exercise so as to allow such data to be controlled.

Abstract: A hand-held transceiver (48) remotely controls a device (24) that is electrically coupled to a receiver (44) capable of receiving an electromagnetic transmission (46) and generating a first electrical signal (52) in response thereto. The device is controlled by the first electrical signal received from the receiver. The transceiver includes a body (56) configured to be hand-held by the person and a housing (43) to house a switch (50) that generates a second electrical signal in response to actuation of the switch. A transmitter (49) is also contained in the housing and is electrically connected to the switch for receiving the second electrical signal. In response thereto, the transmitter generates an electromagnetic transmission for receipt by the receiver (44) to in turn control the device. A weight (62) is couplable to the body for weighting the transceiver.

Abstract: A walk simulation apparatus usable for walk training of crippled persons or for a simulator of virtual reality. By the apparatus participants can experience simulations of walking horizontally and on slopes and steps with full reality at the same position. The apparatus is of use also in quantitatively evaluating quality of performances of artificial legs for patients who lost legs. The apparatus comprises a head mounted display showing a participant programmed images in the form of three-dimensional images, a walk surface mechanism having a function of performing simulations of horizontal walk and walk on slopes and steps, a control device, walk plates, and load sensors detecting loads applied on the walk plates individually. The control device has a function of comparing data detected by the load sensors with standard data to analyze a state of walk of the participant.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a pivot axis supported by the frame, a pedal lever, a coupler for pivotally coupling a first end of the pedal lever to the pivot axis at a predetermined distance from the pivot axis such that the first end moves in an arcuate pathway around the pivot axis, a guide member supported by the frame and engaging a second end of the pedal lever such that the second end of the pedal lever moves in a reciprocating pathway as the first end of the pedal lever moves in the arcuate pathway, and a pedal having a toe portion and a heel portion, the pedal being pivotally coupled with the second end of the pedal lever such that the toe portion is intermediate the heel portion and the pivot axis and the heel portion is raised above the toe portion when the second end moves in the reciprocating pathway in a direction away from the pivot axis.

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: 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: A virtual-reality system provides a full-body, digitally programmed, kinesthetic display in the form of a foot-haptic system incorporating a pair of footpads, one associated with each foot of a user, and a multi-axis electromechanical interface responsive to user position and orientation. A computer, in communication with the electromechanical interface, permits the user to interact with a virtual terrain, vertical features, or other users. In a preferred physical realization, the system includes three major components: a locomotion simulator, a ground plane 104, and a vertical feature emulator. A head-mounted display provides all visual clues. The system may be operated in a first mode of operation, wherein the user's feet and the footpads remain in constant contact with each other, or an alternative mode of operation, wherein the user makes and breaks contact with the footpads in a cyclical manner.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for reducing, preventing, lessening and treating the incidence and severity of Repetitive Strain Injuries ("RSI") comprising a combination of computer software and hardware that provides a "prompt" and system whereby the computer operator exercises their upper extremities during data entry and word processing thereby maximizing the excursion (range of motion) of the joints involved directly and indirectly in computer operation. In summary, the apparatus and method of the present invention includes 1) specialized target means with optional counters which serves as "goals" or marks towards which the hands of the typist are directed during prolonged key entry, 2) software that directs the movement of the limbs to and from the keyboard, and 3) software that individualizes the frequency and intensity of the exercise sequence.

Abstract: An active and continuous passive motion (CPM) devices for exercising and/or providing therapy to the upper and lower extremities comprising a frame, a disc pivotally mounted to the frame and hand or feet support members attached to the disc. A motor is provided and is coupled to the disc for rotating the disc in the active mode. A control circuit is provided for adjusting the speed of the disc in the passive mode and for adjusting the resistance to movement of the disc in the active mode.

Abstract: A device for connecting fitness equipment such as an exercise bicycle to a computer equipped with a game control device including a continuously variable resistance (e.g. industry standard architecture computers such as IBM PC/AT and compatibles equipped with a joystick adapter). The two states of the exercise bicycle (pedaling or not pedaling) are converted to the three states required by racing simulations (braking, coasting, accelerating) by means of a non-linear element in such a way that pedaling at speeds lower than a certain cross-over value is converted to various degrees of braking while pedaling at speeds higher than this value is converted to various degrees of acceleration. The cross-over pedaling speed which is converted to a resistance equal to that of a joystick in its middle position is lower than half the maximum speed. Within the range of possible pedaling speeds of the exercise bicycle, a smaller portion is used for braking and a greater portion is used for accelerating.

Abstract: A device for exercising the abdominal muscles and method comprising an informing unit having a sensor, an announciator with a signal-controlling circuit board and a signal reproducer, and elements to enable positioning and retaining the informing unit on the user's belly. The abdominal muscles are exercised by flexing them using the information from the sensor. These attract the user's attention to the exercising of abdominal muscles, by reproducing an exercise command or musical note, serving to indicate to the user to contract muscles, and stop the command, therefore resulting in more efficient development of the abdominal muscles.

Abstract: An exercise machine mounted above one end of a bed, occupied by a bedridden patient or other supine user, has one or more double-ended ropes, each rope having a handle or a stirrup on each of its ends and a central loop tractively encircling a torque drum. Each torque drum is mounted for rotation against adjustably variable braking torque, which may be canceled in one direction of angular rotation by a one-way clutch. The handles and stirrups have adjustable rope engaging features, achieving infinitely variable rope lengths. Pulleys guide the ropes for substantially horizontal pulling reciprocation by the supine user, whose position may be braced or stabilized by torso-positioning rigid arms, such as adjustable telescoping spacer tubes, extending from the exercise machine to the user.

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: A system to reducing repetitive motion injury (RMI) risks comprises a wrist-resting device having one or both of a heater and a vibrator in the device. In preferred embodiments edges of a support pad for the device are rounded significantly to avoid the possibility of sharp edges impeding a user's blood circulation. In another aspect a control system is provided for monitoring user activity and weighting each instance of activity according to stored parameters to accumulate data on user stress level. In the event a prestored stress threshold is reached, a media player is invoked to provide rest and exercise for the user.

Abstract: A therapeutic wrist rotator provides for the passive rotation of the wrist of a user of the device for rehabilitation of the wrist after injury or disease. The device includes a case which is adapted to be immovably affixed to a stationary object in order to resist the forces applied during use. The case includes an electric motor driving a reduction drive to provide relatively slow rotational speed and relatively high torque to an output shaft. The output shaft includes a handgrip extending therefrom. On/off and rotational direction switches are provided to control the operation of the device, which may be powered by conventional alternating current or by one or more batteries. A protractor dial surrounding the output shaft provides an indication of the rotation achieved during use of the device, and a pair of indicators provides an indication of the maximum rotational movement in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing feedback to a user of a weight stack machine having weights for lifting has an enclosure adapted for attachment to the weight stack machine. A weight sensor weight for determining the number of weights lifted is provided as well as an means for detecting the motion of the weights during a lift. An electronic detector is operatively coupled to the weight sensor and the encoder for computing data describing the number of weights lifted. An interface for transmitting the computed data from the electronic detector to a central storage and the display is provided. The interface also receives information from the central storage and displays it on the display.

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 device is provided which includes a surface for supporting a body of a user and a frame for supporting the surface above a floor. Mechanism(s) may be provided for changing the orientation of the surface relative to the floor during an exercise routine. Resistance device(s) are connected to the device for providing resistance to movement of the user. Display device(s) may be provided to display various information relating to an exercise routine to the user and to others. Computer control(s) may be included for controlling the amount of resistance provided by the resistance devices and for controlling the orientation of the support surface relative to the floor. Memory device(s) may be associated with the computer control for storing exercise routines, recording the results of performed exercise routines and other information.

Abstract: A remote controller mechanism for use with a piece of exercise equipment such as an exercise bicycle or apparatus and a remotely controllable electronic device wherein the piece of exercise equipment has an electronic sensor that outputs a train of electronic pulses as a function of the speed at which the piece of exercise equipment is operated and wherein the remotely controllable electronic device has a first and a second operational mode, the remote controller mechanism including an interface mechanism for receiving the train of electronic pulses; a speed determination mechanism coupled to the interface mechanism for receiving the train of electronic pulses and then determining a present speed based upon the train of electronic pulses; a speed selection mechanism for allowing a desired minimum speed to be set by the user; a comparator mechanism coupled to the speed determination mechanism and the speed selection mechanism for comparing the present speed to the minimum speed and then outputing a result of t

Abstract: The instant invention provides an article of manufacture comprising providing a computer program operable within a virtual reality device which is designed for perfecting mental visualization within the mind of a subject. It also provides the program in combination with a virtual reality device and a method of using the same. The steps of the method include: operatively interfacing the program with the device and mounting the device on the subject; and, running the program. The program can be designed to communicate a metaphoric scenario to the subject which is designed for perfecting mental visualization within the mind of the subject. It can also be further designed to effect preconditioning of the subject's mind, such as inducing a state of meditation or hypnosis, or combinations thereof. The scenario of the program can be designed to exist in real time, real space, compressed time, compressed space, expanded time, expanded space, or any combination thereof.

Abstract: A biofeedback system for training the abdominal muscles uses a belt or waistband with a buckle which includes switches, at least one switch modifying a music tape source which is, for example, mounted on the belt. The belt buckle is expandable so that with the abdominal muscles (abs) relaxed, a switch will be in one position, and with the abs tensed, it will be in another, to appropriately modify the sound source. This is fed back to the user via the headphones so that when he recognized the modification the user will be encouraged to re-tense the abs.

Abstract: A movement training device includes a crank including crankarms and pedals disposed on the crankarms, the pedals being connectable to feet or arms of a person training; an electric motor transmission-connected to the crank for driving and braking the crank in both directions of rotation; a four-quadrant power electronics device operatively connected to the motor for supplying current thereto to drive and brake the crank; and a computer for detecting an angular position, a speed of rotation and a torque of the crank including respective directions thereof as instantaneous actual characteristic quantities of a crank movement and for placing the instantaneous actual characteristic quantities in a digital and thereby freely utilizable form.

Abstract: A new design of therapeutic traction modality with closed loop traction force control based on EMG signals from selected muscle is developed for rehabilitation. This modality includes main traction controller, a high signal-to-noise ratio EMG scanning and processing units, A/D and D/A computer interface hardware, on-line self-adjusted traction force actuating unit, biofeedback control software, and audio/visual alarms. This new traction modality provide a breakthrough milestone for the open loop control architecture of conventional motorized traction machine. The kernel of this invented modality is to adaptively adjusting traction force based on real time detected EMG signals to ensure the safety, comfort, and effectiveness of traction therapy.

Abstract: The present invention discloses an exercise, rehabilitation and extremity testing method and apparatus having a cycloidal speed reducer. A multiposition chair is rotatably mounted to a stand which is slidingly mounted to a track on a platform. A dynamometer is mounted on a pedestal on the platform such that it is capable of rotating about a horizontal axis and a vertical axis. The vertical height of the dynamometer can also be adjusted. An input apparatus capable of engaging the limb or body segment of a user is mounted to an input shaft of the dynamometer. A motor controls the movement of the input shaft through a cycloidal speed reducer. Consequently, the motor controls the movement of the input arm and the user's limb or body segment. The user exercises his muscles by applying force to the input apparatus according to a number of different protocols.

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand which includes structure for detecting the cardinal movements of the hand and translating the movements into rotational data for the system, the structure for detecting effectively isolating the movements of the hand so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also generally includes an assembly for providing a selective variable resistance to the structure for detecting and for ascertaining the force applied to the structure for detecting by the movements of the hand.

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: An aerobic wheelchair trainer (10) is provided. The wheelchair trainer includes a ramp (12) having a plurality of level steps (24-28). The steps lead a wheelchair inserted into the wheelchair trainer onto a platform (13). The wheelchair trainer also includes a support mechanism (16) that supports the weight of the wheelchair (22) and wheelchair occupant. A load mechanism (18) including a resistance roller (70) and an eddy current brake (110) is also included. The load mechanism provides a variable resistance to movement of the wheels (20) of the wheelchair. The wheelchair trainer (10) also includes a lift mechanism (14) that lifts the rear end of the wheelchair up and into or out of the support mechanism (16). The load mechanism (18) is connected to a controller (144). The wheelchair trainer (10) may be used either individually or may be connected to another compatible wheelchair trainer (10) over a phone line (152).

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand which includes apparatus for detecting the cardinal movements of the hand and translating the movements into rotational data for the system, the apparatus for detecting effectively isolating the movements of the hand so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also generally includes a mechanism for providing a selective variable resistance to the apparatus for detecting and for ascertaining the force applied to the apparatus for detecting by the movements of the hand.

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. 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. The user manipulates. the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to travel substantially unrestricted throughout the simulated environment. The computer controls the exercise mechanism and monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to determine user position in the simulated environment. The display provides a visual display of the user's position in the simulated environment.

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.