Equipment Control Patents (Class 482/4)
  • Patent number: 9511254
    Abstract: A treadmill and desk assembly which allows a user to comfortably exercise while simultaneously running or walking. The desk includes a work panel, an adjustable leg, and a base frame. The work panel is connected normal to the adjustable leg, which in turn is connected to and supported by the base frame. The treadmill includes a first guiding member, a second guiding member, a front housing, a belt, a front roller, and a rear roller. The first guiding member and the second guiding member are adjacently connected to the front housing. The front roller and the rear roller are connected in between the first guiding member and the second guiding member. The belt is tensionably positioned about the front roller and the rear roller, thus allowing for relative rotation. The front housing is sized to fit and interlock with a treadmill-receiving cavity of the desk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: SmartMuv Wellness, Inc.
    Inventors: Jean Patrick Netter, Clifford Ames, Jr., Craig Darryl Landfair
  • Patent number: 9505310
    Abstract: A drivable exercise machine may include an electric vehicle with human power input provided by a high output, variable-resistancepedal-driven generator. The vehicle may include a computing device with a user interface that mimics an electric exercise bicycle. Using one or more program modes, a user may activate pre-set, custom and dynamic terrain-based exercise program profiles while commuting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2016
    Assignee: RahtMobile, LLC
    Inventors: Richard Kronfeld, Lyon Smith, Russell Bockin, Steve Castellotti
  • Patent number: 9474935
    Abstract: An all-in-one smart console, which is a self-contained unit, includes a control module for controlling an operation of the exercise machine, a command system operatively linked to the control module for receiving exercise related information from the exercise machine and data from the portable wireless communication device, and a fitness analysis module operatively linked to the control module for collecting exercise related information of the exercise machine and generating an exercise result based on the exercise related information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignees: PROVA RESEARCH INC., PARADIGM HEALTH & WELLNESS INC.
    Inventors: James M. Abbondanza, Jackson Hsieh
  • Patent number: 9474673
    Abstract: Portable devices and methods for preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) by assuring that the ankle is flexed and extended sufficiently to promote blood flow in the lower leg are disclosed. The device includes an actuator with a free movement mode that allows a patient to move freely between activations or to initiate movement to delay a next automatic activation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2016
    Assignee: AlterG, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. Horst, Kern Bhugra, Thomas J. Fogarty
  • Patent number: 9415257
    Abstract: A resistance system, which can be suitable for incorporation in exercise equipment, is a “hybrid” resistance assembly having at least a first and a second resistance unit. The first resistance unit can be of a first type and the second resistance unit can be of a second type. The first resistance unit can be an inertial resistance unit, which incorporates an inertial load that creates resistance influenced by the inertia of a movable mass, such as a rotatable flywheel. The second resistance unit can be a static or non-inertial resistance unit, such as a displacement resistance unit, which incorporates a load that creates resistance influenced by displacement (e.g., linear or rotational displacement) of an input to the displacement resistance unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Douglas John Habing
  • Patent number: 9409054
    Abstract: In a first aspect, a method is provided that includes the steps of (1) providing a monitor for determining a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser and for outputting a signal representative of the performance level; (2) using the monitor to measure a level of exercise performance performed by an exerciser; (3) outputting from the monitor a signal representative of the performance level; (4) providing a video game having a character, the video game inputting and being responsive to the performance level signal output by the monitor, the video game using the performance level signal to control a performance level of the video game character; and (5) while the exerciser is not exercising, controlling a performance level of the video game character based on a performance level signal output by the monitor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Inventor: Brian M. Dugan
  • Patent number: 9364714
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are techniques and systems for evaluating exercise performance of a user of a fitness system by utilizing one or more intelligent sensors, including at least one camera-based sensor configured to detect image data of the user. The fitness system may include a stationary exercise device, a memory to store personal information about a user, and a processor to generate a set of exercise rules based, at least in part, on the personal information about the user. The fitness system may also include one or more sensors to monitor a physical state of the user, and a fuzzy system to generate an evaluation for the user based, at least in part, on i) the set of rules and ii) output from the one or more sensors. The fitness system may thereby provide real-time, constructive feedback regarding the user's exercise performance based on the sensed data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Zsolutionz, LLC
    Inventors: Sunil Koduri, John Michael Hand, Surendra P. S. Bhatia, Bobby Joe Adams, John W. Ransone, Shalini Koduri
  • Patent number: 9286946
    Abstract: A voice recording and playback device of the present invention is capable of storage management of generated voice data, to which date information has been attached, as voice files, and comprises a display section capable of calendar display, and a control section for, at the time of retrieving voice files from a storage section, performing movable identification on a calendar display, as well as retrieving voice files that have been stored in the storage section based on date information attached to the files, and performing display of results of this retrieval indicating the existence of voice files close to day display on the calendar display, wherein the control section moves the identification position based on an instruction operation by the retrieval instructions section, and generates a notification in accordance with voice files that exist on the date of the identification position that has been moved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Olympus Corporation
    Inventors: Sho Takayama, Kazushi Fujitani
  • Patent number: 9288836
    Abstract: A bracelet including a plurality of circuits. The plurality of circuits includes a wireless communication circuit configured to communicate with a first device, a near-field communication circuit configured to communicate with a second device via a near-field communication antenna, and a power supply circuit including a battery. The first device is remote from the bracelet. The power supply circuit is configured to supply power to one or more of the plurality of circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2016
    Assignee: Marvell International LTD.
    Inventors: Joelle Clement, Patrick Clement, Antoine Moret
  • Patent number: 9268405
    Abstract: In an approach to allowing a user to operate a computing device while preventing and/or rehabilitating an injury, three-dimensional gestures of a user are translated into corresponding movement of a cursor on a display device. Different gestures can indicate the same motion of the cursor. As the user gestures to move the cursor, the software determines, based on a history of use specific to the user, whether the user can continue without feeling pain or fatigue. If it is determined that continued use will cause or is likely to cause pain or fatigue, the software can request the user to take a break, or can switch the gesture or motion required by the user to move the cursor in a similar manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2016
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gemma M. Bailey, Leon Chen, James K. Hook, Melanie S. Hopper, Susannah Marie Lindsay
  • Patent number: 9242142
    Abstract: Sports electronic training systems with sport ball and electronic gaming features are disclosed. In an embodiment, a method of transferring data from a sport ball to an electronic game includes the sport ball determining the occurrence of an event and the sport ball transmitting data related to the event to the electronic game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2016
    Assignee: ADIDAS INTERNATIONAL MARKETING B.V.
    Inventors: Stephen Michael Vincent, Christian Dibenedetto, Mark Arthur Oleson, Paul Gaudio
  • Patent number: 9223936
    Abstract: Example embodiments may relate to a system, method, apparatus, and computer readable media configured for monitoring a user performing an athletic movement and/or exercise and generating a fatigue value. Fatigue values may be determined for different groups. In one embodiment, a first value is determined for a muscle fatigue value and a second value is determined for a respiratory value. In another embodiment, a first value may pertain to a first muscle group and a second value may pertain to a second muscle group. A fatigue index may be created from values obtained during an athletic movement and/or a workout session. In further embodiments, a cumulative fatigue index may be determined. A cumulative fatigue index may consider values obtained during several workout sessions. Further, data obtained outside of workout sessions may be considered in determinations relating to fatigue values and/or indices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 29, 2015
    Assignee: NIKE, Inc.
    Inventors: Tesa Aragones, Annie Chen, Adriana Guerrero, Christina S. Self, Jay C. Blahnik, Paul T. Winsper
  • Patent number: 9108106
    Abstract: Disclosed are a virtual world processing device and method. By way of example, data collected from the real world is converted to binary form data which is then transmitted, or is converted to XML data, or the converted XML data is further converted to binary form data which is then transmitted, thereby allowing the data transmission rate to be increased and a low bandwidth to be used, and, in the case of a data-receiving adaptation RV engine, the complexity of the adaptation RV engine can be reduced as there is no need to include an XML parser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignees: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., MYONGJI UNIVERSITY INDUSTRY AND ACADEMIA COOPERATION FOUNDATION
    Inventors: Seung Ju Han, Jae Joon Han, Won Chul Bang, Do Kyoon Kim, Sang Kyun Kim
  • Publication number: 20150141199
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for enabling an operator to exercise comprising a frame having a body, a base and a top. A load is positioned on the frame for providing a resistive force. A press is positioned on the frame for displacement by the operator. A linkage joins the load with the press for displacing the load upon displacement of the press by the operator. An aria extends between a support end and a user end. A support pivot secures the support end of the arm to the top of the frame for pivoting the arm about the frame. A user interface inputs and outputs data. A user pivot securing the user interface to the user end of the arm for pivoting the user interface about the arm.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2013
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Carl R. Spoeth, Jeffrey A. Pearson, Jacob Fitzgerald
  • Publication number: 20150133268
    Abstract: An apparatus with a continuously movable surface with at least two belts includes a platform with a front end and a rear end, and a first front pulley mounted inside the platform adjacent to is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the front the front end of the platform. A second front pulley end of the platform. At least a first rear pulley is mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end of the platform. A second rear pulley may also be mounted inside the platform adjacent to the rear end of the platform. A first conveyor belt is looped around the first front pulley and first rear pulley and a second conveyor belt is looped around the second front pulley and either the second rear pulley or the first rear pulley. When the first and second conveyor belts rotate between respective pulleys, a continuously movable surface forms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2013
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventor: Johann B. VERHEEM
  • Patent number: 9028258
    Abstract: The present invention provides method and apparatus to perform combined cognitive and motor rehabilitation on a computerized non-portable system or on single portable device. A patient can play a variety of games that require the patient to perform a variety of memory exercises which involve physical exertion. The activities of the patient are monitored with pattern analysis software which provides feedback to the patient. The feedback can include voice synthesis, video guidance, progression messages etc. Patient data obtained while the patient is performing each of the memory exercises is stored locally on a database module and then uploaded to a cloud server. A remote psychologist/psychiatrist monitors the patient by logging into the same cloud, and updating cognition exercises. The same therapist can have live chats with the patient for further interaction and coaching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: Bright Cloud International Corp.
    Inventor: Grigore C. Burdea
  • Patent number: 9028368
    Abstract: An exercise system includes one or more exercise devices that communicate via a network with a communication system. The communication system stores and/or generates exercise programming for use on the exercise device. The exercise programming is able to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device to simulate terrain found at a remote, real world location. The exercise programming can include images/videos of the remote, real world location. The control signals and the images/videos can be synchronized so that a user of the exercise device is able to experience, via the changing operating parameters, the topographical characteristics of the remote, real world location as well as see images of the location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren C. Ashby, Scott R. Watterson, Kirk Lorrigan, William T. Dalebout
  • Publication number: 20150111698
    Abstract: An all-in-one smart console, which is a self-contained unit, includes a control module for controlling an operation of the exercise machine, a command system operatively linked to the control module for receiving exercise related information from the exercise machine and data from the portable wireless communication device, and a fitness analysis module operatively linked to the control module for collecting exercise related information of the exercise machine and generating an exercise result based on the exercise related information.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 16, 2014
    Publication date: April 23, 2015
    Inventors: James M. Abbondanza, Jackson Hsieh
  • Patent number: 9011291
    Abstract: An apparatus and method concurrently present one or more visible tracings on a display, each of the one or more visible tracings being based upon one of a plurality of available paths actually taken by a member of an exercise device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Precor Incorporated
    Inventor: James S. Birrell
  • Patent number: 9005145
    Abstract: An apparatus of muscle and/or joint exercise adapted to reeducation and/or physical conditioning of a body part of a user, including a hollow body; a mobile member translatable inside the body; a motor-driven means arranged on the bottom of the body and adapted for driving and decelerating in displacement the mobile member in both translatory directions; a cooperating means between the body and a frame, this cooperating means being arranged on the bottom of the body and including: at least one hinge of the body on the frame, the hinge providing at least at least one degree of rotational freedom for the body around an axis of rotation; and a removable means for installing and removing the body, the removable means being designed for removably installing the body on a base slidingly mounted in the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: Marc Champsaur
  • Publication number: 20150094190
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are training devices useful for improving the agility and/or speed of a trainee, systems comprising same, and methods of improving a trainee's agility and/or speed. In one embodiment a training device comprises a first sensor operatively associated with a control mechanism, wherein the control mechanism is optionally configured to enable the device to move (a) randomly, (b) in a predetermined movement pattern, or (c) in relation to a second sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Inventors: Paul Mazzanobile, Evan Baumgarten
  • Patent number: 8992384
    Abstract: A training apparatus includes a training machine, a detecting unit, a signal generating unit, and a control unit. The training machine includes a displaceable part that is movable in response to exercise motions performed by the exerciser during training exercise. The detecting unit detects the displacement of the displaceable part or detects the displacement of the target training area of the exerciser resulting from the exercise motions. The signal generating unit generates a stimulus signal to be applied to the exerciser during the training exercise. The control unit corrects a content of processing relating to stimulus signal performed by the signal generating unit based on the displacement detected by the detecting unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: System Instruments Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Hamada, Takeshi Akiba, Hiroshi Yokoi
  • Patent number: 8986165
    Abstract: A key includes a safety mechanism operatively connectable to a safety port on an exercise device. When the safety mechanism is operatively connected to the safety port, the exercise device is placed in an operational configuration and when disconnected, the exercise device is in a non-operational configuration. The key further includes a user identification mechanism that is communicatively connectable to a user identification port on the exercise device and transmits user identification information to the exercise device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Darren C. Ashby
  • Publication number: 20150072835
    Abstract: An exercise machine with controlled motion and user force matching resistance. The machine includes a frame to which is rigidly mounted a motor driven reciprocating drive. A user engageable arm is pivotally mounted to the frame. The reciprocating drive is connected to the arm by a rigid connecting rod. The reciprocating drive drives the arm through a predetermined stroke following a pre-determined velocity profile. The user performs the exercise by applying force to the arm. The arm applies a generally equal counterforce to the force applied by the user. The pre-determined motion of the arm is generally independent of the force applied by the user. The stroke of the arm has a fixed fully contracted position and a user adjustable fully extended position. Adjustments to the fully extended position are made by changing the location of the joint between the connecting rod and the arm. Motion of the arm starts upon application of force applied by the user, and stops when the user force is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: John Frederick Kunstmann
  • Patent number: 8968161
    Abstract: Apparatus for exercising a person's balance control, the apparatus comprising: a motion stage operable to displace an object mounted thereto; a treadmill mounted to the stage and comprising a belt having a runway surface on which a person using the treadmill stands, walks and/or runs; and a controller that controls the motion stage to provide a displacement of the treadmill and thereby the treadmill runway surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Ben Gurion University of the Negev Research and Development Authority
    Inventors: Amir Shapiro, Itshak Melzer, Allan C. Entis
  • Patent number: 8968155
    Abstract: A resistance exercise system having, in certain embodiments, a DC power supply system, a DC motor connected to the DC power supply system, a drive section connected to a drive element, a resistance delivery element connected to the drive element, and an extractable exercise resistance delivery section, a predetermined variable resistance section intermediate the DC power supply system and DC motor, an electrical condition sensor, and a variable resistance section control in communication with the electrical condition sensor and the predetermined variable resistance section. In some embodiments, the resistance exercise system includes a computing facility providing the ability to configure the exercise system to provide predetermined static or variable exercise resistance during exercise, and for example, during a positive or negative exercise stroke. Some embodiments allow users to create and, if desired, display varying and complex resistance exercise routines with or without use of resistance weights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Inventor: John M. Bird
  • Publication number: 20150057127
    Abstract: An adjustable exercise system for adjusting an exercise machine such as a Pilates machine between various angles of incline with respect to a fixed base to allow for a wider range of exercises. The adjustable exercise system generally includes a base, an exercise machine pivotably connected to the base, and one or more actuators, for lifting or lowering the exercise machine into varying angles of incline with respect to the base. The rear end of the base is generally pivotably connected to the rear end of the exercise machine by a hinge or pivot connectors. A controller is also provided which communicates via a wired or wireless communications network with one or more of the adjustable exercise systems. Using the controller, an exercise instructor may adjust the adjustable exercise systems of multiple exercisers with a single command.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Sebastien Anthony Louis Lagree
  • Publication number: 20150024906
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a system and method for alleviating symptoms of a medical disorder of a patient by forced exercise. The system includes an exercise machine having movable portions that move in response to a first contribution by a patient and in response a second contribution by a motor. The system further includes at least one mechanical sensor and a control system programmed to alter the second contribution by the motor in response to the sensed data.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2014
    Publication date: January 22, 2015
    Inventor: Jay L. Alberts
  • Patent number: 8932183
    Abstract: A training system for training of part of a trainee's body includes a training machine, a control device controlling the training machine, and a display unit displaying a game screen. The training machine imposes a load on the trainee, with an MR-fluid load generating unit using MR fluid, which has viscosity varying with a magnetic field strength. The load is calculated on the basis of a target load and a relationship between the current in the MR-fluid load generating unit and the load generated by the MR-fluid load generating unit. The control device produces the game screen in correspondence with the trainee's training motion detected by a displacement detection sensor, and makes the display unit display the game screen, while controlling the load in the training machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Takei Scientific Instruments Co., Ltd., Yokohama National University
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ishii, Sizuo Takatou, Kenichi Honda, Hajime Watanabe, Kouichi Yamada, Yasuyuki Murayama, Toshihiko Shiraishi, Shin Morishita
  • Publication number: 20150005138
    Abstract: A rehabilitation device includes: an operation unit operated by a patient under rehabilitation; an operation amount detection unit that detects an operation amount of the operation unit; a driving unit that applies torque to the operation unit; a control unit that controls driving of the driving unit; and a movement state detection unit that detects a movement state of a moving part of the patient. The control unit calculates a target value of the operation amount to be performed on the operation unit based on the movement state detected by the movement state detection unit and a predetermined movement model and controls the driving unit so that the operation amount detected by the operation amount detection unit follows the calculated target value of the operation amount.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Hitoshi YAMADA, Masashi YAMASHITA
  • Patent number: 8920288
    Abstract: In general, exercise devices of the present invention include one or more fans that can increase the flow of air in particular direction. Exercise devices of the present invention also include a sensing mechanism that can sense a physiological condition of a user performing an exercise on the exercise device. The sensed physiological condition could be pulse, blood pressure, respiration, caloric expenditure, weight, perspiration, temperature, blood oxygen level, metabolic equivalent of task (MET), carbohydrates burned, cadence or another physiological condition. The speed of the air flow created by the fan can depend on the physiological condition sensed by the sensing mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: William Dalebout, Scott R. Watterson
  • Patent number: 8905761
    Abstract: Disclosed is a training system that enables a player to take a lesson with smooth and correct breathing and continuously take a lesson while overcoming frustration. An instructor image related to a yoga pose and a breathing timing are displayed on a display. A training device is a portable type, such that the player can hold the training device in one hand, and take a lesson while watching the display. In addition, the player can take the lesson with correct breathing by watching the displayed breathing timing. When it is difficult to take the same pose as the instructor image related to the yoga pose, the player selects ‘SIMPLE POSE’. Then, a simple pose is displayed on the basis of simple pose data. The simple pose has lower difficulty level than an elementary pose, and thus even a player who is lacking in limberness can take the corresponding pose.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Square Enix
    Inventor: Masanori Ichikawa
  • Patent number: 8900098
    Abstract: This invention relates to an exercise device and more particularly to an exercise device of the type that allows the user of the exercise device to exercise with part of their body in a negative pressure environment. These devices are becoming increasingly popular however the known devices are prone to frequent failure. The present invention provides a construction of exercise device that reduces the incidences of failure caused by failure of the electronics panel. The electronics panel being mounted in a separate dedicated enclosure internal the chamber with the negative pressure environment, the interior of the dedicated enclosure is isolated from the negative pressure conditions and atmosphere in the remainder of the chamber. The exercise device will be more reliable and cost effective to run. Furthermore, the construction of the present invention permits easier access to the interior of the casing for maintenance when maintenance is required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Inventor: Fiona Mary Egan
  • Patent number: 8900097
    Abstract: An apparatus providing an assist force to user moved weights of a existing weight exercise or rehab machine or stand can be supplied as a kit including servo motor/transmission/reel assembly. A cable has a first end securable to the reel and a second end configured to be coupled directly or indirectly with the user moved weights of the existing machine/stand. A control interface accepts input of variable parameters for assist control including entry of at least a user selected assist force. The kit also has a servo drive and a main digital controller connected with at least the servo motor, motor drive and control interface, the controller programmed to provide a user selected non-zero assist force essentially only during part of an exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 2, 2014
    Assignee: Omegamax Holding Company, LLC
    Inventors: Jason Griggs, Matthew Cubbler, Glenn R. Siegele, Leonard A. Dube
  • Patent number: 8894549
    Abstract: An exercise device having a selectively adjustable footpad is disclosed. More specifically, the present invention describes a footpad whose angular orientation is adjustable by a cam having at least two support sides. The cam can be positioned between the footpad and a link arm. The cam can be rotatable about an axis with each support side being a different distance from the axis. The angle of the footpad can be adjusted by selectively rotating the cam so that the footpad is resting on different support sides of the cam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 25, 2014
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Matthew D. Colledge
  • Publication number: 20140342877
    Abstract: The proposed apparatus and method relate to restorative sports medicine and patient rehabilitation with neurological motoric disorders. A patient is positioned in equilibrium by suspension devices for patient's body parts. The suspension devices are moved by actuating mechanisms with an electro-pneumatic drive and actuating components, controlled by a programmed computer, motivating the patient by controlling an object in a virtual gaming environment, to restore movements when there is an initially minimal or a complete absence of physical activity. The effectiveness is judged according to the reduction of energy consumption of the drives. The apparatus includes a base composed of two parallel guides with movable crossbars, on which the actuating mechanisms are pairwise movably arranged, monitoring and control units, the computer, sensors detecting the state of the actuating mechanisms, and power sources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2012
    Publication date: November 20, 2014
    Inventors: Ildar Farvazovich Rakhmatullin, Sergei Andreevich Kuzevanov
  • Patent number: 8876663
    Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention includes a system and method for alleviating symptoms of a medical disorder of a patient by forced exercise. The system includes an exercise machine having movable portions that move in response to a first contribution by a patient and in response a second contribution by a motor. The system further includes at least one mechanical sensor and a control system programmed to alter the second contribution by the motor in response to the sensed data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: The Cleveland Clinic Foundation
    Inventor: Jay L. Alberts
  • Patent number: 8876662
    Abstract: A table for use with a workout equipment is provided. The table includes a base, a table board and a supporting stand. The base has a front shielding portion, two lateral shielding portions, and a receiving space defined by the front shielding portion and the lateral shielding portions. The supporting stand is disposed between the base and the table board and is of a length adjustable to change the distance between the table board and the base. Accordingly, the table operates in conjunction with any workout equipments that come in various types or styles to enable a user to exercise and work concurrently and conveniently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: Dyaco International Inc.
    Inventor: Kuo-Wo Hao
  • Publication number: 20140323270
    Abstract: Disclosed is a sprinter training aid which pulls the sprinter forward in an over speed condition, for the purpose of exercise the muscles which pull the leg forward when running, such the hip flexor muscles. Two devices can be used, one pulling the sprinter forward and one pulling the sprinter backward at the start of a run. The backward pulling at the start of the run exercises the sprinter's muscles which are used when going from a stationary position, to a full speed sprint. The device which pulls the sprinter forward would take over when the rearward pulling device shut off, and pull the sprinter to an over speed condition. Include in the device is a cable and cable winder, and a motor, computer, and a wireless connection to a data compilation computer.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Publication date: October 30, 2014
    Inventor: WENDELL LAWRENCE
  • Publication number: 20140302967
    Abstract: A treadmill may comprise a drive motor positioned and configured to drive a treadbelt, and an electrical current sensor configured to measure the electrical current utilized by the drive motor. The treadmill may also include a computer programmed and configured to analyze the measured electrical current usage by the drive motor to determine the weight of a person positioned on the treadbelt. A person's weight may be determined by driving the treadbelt with the drive motor while a person is positioned on the treadbelt, measuring an electric current utilized by the drive motor, and analyzing the measured electric current to determine the weight of the person positioned on the treadbelt of the treadmill. Additionally, the measured weight may be utilized to calculate calorie expenditure.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Applicant: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Darren Ashby, Greg Law
  • Patent number: 8845493
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to exercise systems, and more particularly to exercise cycles and systems for generating exercise programs simulating real-world terrain. In accordance with at least some aspects, a stationary exercise cycle includes an incline mechanism adjusting the vertical and/or lateral incline of the stationary exercise cycle. The incline mechanism may respond to control signals that change vertical incline to simulate an ascent or descent of a hill, or a lateral incline to simulate a turn. A communication system may provide exercise programs to the exercise cycle by operating in connection with third party providers of topographical, map, or other information. Such information can be used to automatically determine corresponding incline or resistance changes, as well as visual information for an exercise program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: ICON IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Watterson, William Dalebout, Dale Buchanan
  • Patent number: 8840526
    Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus via a control interface of an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch has occurred on the surface of the touch screen and whether the touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions to move a first tag in the input zone from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. Then, the final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Andrew J Kolman, Matthew D Wittenberg, Timothy E Bank, Mark J Van Handel, Shanan Galligan
  • Patent number: 8821350
    Abstract: An exercise and communications system includes an interactive device, a remote device, and an external device, wherein the interactive device is configured to gather data relating to a user of the system and transmit the same to the remote device, and the remote device is configured to provide analyze the data and transmit a response to the interactive device, which in turn communicates the response to the user and additionally communication with an external device for retrieval of instructions, programs, and data, inter alia. An exercise and communications system facilitates communication between a plurality of users, each having an interactive device and a remote device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Richard J. Maertz
  • Publication number: 20140228173
    Abstract: Systems and methods for target training including synchronized music for providing training of a user, and the system includes an arena. The arena includes a plurality of towers, the towers located within the arena, the plurality of towers each having a plurality of lighted targets. The system includes a computing system, interconnected with the plurality of towers, the computing system configured to turn on and off the lighted targets, wherein the lighted targets are configured to be actuated by the touch of a user as well as the computing system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: MAKOTO USA, INC.
    Inventors: Marian Shaw, David Shaw
  • Publication number: 20140221158
    Abstract: A static cycling machine includes a base assembly. A front post support structure is arranged on the base assembly. A front post assembly is arranged on the front post support structure and is angled forward with respect to a support substrate, the front post assembly being adjustable in length and configured to permit a handlebar assembly to be mounted thereon. A rear post support structure is arranged on the base assembly. A rear post assembly is arranged on the rear post support structure and is angled rearward with respect to the support substrate, the rear post assembly being adjustable in length and configured to permit a seat assembly to be mounted thereon. Linear actuators are arranged on respective support structures and operatively engaged with respective post assemblies to adjust the lengths of the post assemblies. A control system controls operation of the linear actuators. A crank assembly is arranged on at least one of the base and support structures.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Inventors: Peter Mabey, Stewart Williams
  • Publication number: 20140206503
    Abstract: A body-weight support system is disclosed, including an improved lift system and method. The system enables not only the support of patients undergoing rehab therapies, but including exercise modes that are both customizable and dynamic in nature, as well as a track system, wherein the system is capable of providing alternative functionality at differing locations. Other features disclosed include a system by which a movable support unit tracks or follows a patient, adjustable and variable supportive forces for users based upon, for example, a percentage of sensed body weight, and a user-interface that may be employed in a mobile, wired or wireless manner and will allow the use of multiple lift systems on a single, looped track system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 22, 2014
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Applicant: Gorbel, Inc.
    Inventors: James G. Stockmaster, Brian G. Peets, Benjamin A. Strohman, Alexander Z. Chemyak, Blake Reese, Dean C. Wright, Yi Luo, Li-Te Liu
  • Patent number: 8784275
    Abstract: Methods and systems for use in connection with a fitness routine and/or an exercise apparatus. In one such method, fitness information is stored in a fitness analysis system and operative communication is established with an exercise apparatus and/or a wireless communication device. A fitness information request is received at the fitness analysis system, and the system sends a setting associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a workout using an exercise apparatus. The system receives exercise information corresponding to the workout, and updates fitness information during the workout. The updated fitness information is analyzed to generate associated with the exercise apparatus to facilitate a subsequent workout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Mobility II LLC
    Inventors: Jeffrey Mikan, Justin McNamara, Fulvio Cenciarelli, Anastasios L. Kefalas, John E. Lewis
  • Patent number: 8784269
    Abstract: The system provides an exercise device where resistance is provided by one or more of gyroscopic forces, centrifugal forces, magnetic forces, torus forces symmetric field physics, electro-mechanical forces, mass shaping, frequency dynamics, etc. In one embodiment, a handheld device with an internal flywheel is provided. The flywheel is spun up to a desired speed and provides a gyroscopic resistance to movement in a particular direction relative to the orientation of the device. By holding the device in a particular orientation and attempting to move the device against the gyroscopic effect, resistance is provided for exercising. The device itself is relatively light so that the resistance exists principally when the device is being moved. In one embodiment, the rate of rotation of the flywheel can be controlled via an on-board control so that the resistance can be increased or decreased during exercise movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Ken Wright
  • Publication number: 20140194249
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are training devices useful for improving the agility and/or speed of a trainee, systems comprising same, and methods of improving a trainee's agility and/or speed. In one embodiment a training device comprises a first sensor operatively associated with a control mechanism, wherein the control mechanism is optionally configured to enable the device to move (a) randomly, (b) in a predetermined movement pattern, or (c) in relation to a second sensor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2014
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventors: Paul Mazzanobile, Evan Baumgarten
  • Publication number: 20140194248
    Abstract: A method for controlling an exercise apparatus via a control interface of an exercise apparatus, including steps of controlling a touch screen to display an information field, and then monitoring the touch screen to detect whether a touch has occurred on the surface of the touch screen and whether the touch is located in an input zone which has a plurality of sensing areas in the information field. A user can use one of specific actions to move a first tag in the input zone from a first sensing area to a second sensing area. And one of the steps of the method relocates the first tag proximate to the second sensing area to have a portion of the first tag to point at the second sensing area. Then, the final step of the method operates the exercise apparatus from a first condition using a first value corresponding to the first sensing area to a second condition using a second value corresponding to the second sensing area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 10, 2013
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Inventors: Andrew J. Kolman, Matthew D. Wittenberg, Timothy E. Bank, Mark J. Van Handel, Shanan Galligan