Ergometer With Feedback To Load Or With Feedback Comparison Patents (Class 482/900)
  • Patent number: 7381152
    Abstract: A virtual reality system transposes a user's position and movement in real space to virtual space. The virtual reality system includes a locomotion interface that outputs signals indicative of a user's position in real space. The locomotion interface includes a pressure-sensing mat having a base layer, a plurality of pressure sensing elements formed over the base layer, and a top layer formed over the plurality of pressure-sensing elements. The plurality of pressure sensing elements output a signal indicative of pressure applied to the top layer. A virtual reality processor uses the signals output by the locomotion interface to produce an output indicative of the user's position in the virtual space corresponding to the user's position and movement in the real space. A display uses the output from the virtual reality processor to produce an image of the virtual space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Warren C. Couvillion, Jr., Roger R. Lopez, Jian Ling
  • Patent number: 7381153
    Abstract: A virtual reality system transposes a user's position and movement in real space to virtual space. The virtual reality system includes a locomotion interface that outputs signals indicative of a user's position in real space. The locomotion interface includes a pressure-sensing mat having a base layer, a plurality of pressure sensing elements and a counter-force generating layer formed over the base layer, and a top layer formed over the plurality of pressure-sensing elements. The plurality of pressure sensing elements output a signal indicative of pressure applied to the top layer. A virtual reality processor uses the signals output by the locomotion interface to produce an output indicative of the user's position in the virtual space corresponding to the user's position and movement in the real space. A display uses the output from the virtual reality processor to produce an image of the virtual space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Warren Carl Couvillion, Jr., Roger Rene Lopez, Jian Ling
  • Patent number: 7297088
    Abstract: To enhance precision in measurement of the number of steps even when a walk cycle changes. An acceleration detecting portion outputs a walk signal corresponding to a walk of a user detected by a walk sensor. A step number counting portion of a counting portion counts each signal which is judged to be beyond a first reference cycle range by a walk cycle comparing portion among signals from the acceleration detecting portion as the number of steps for one step, and when an extra-regulation step number processing portion judges that a predetermined number of signals each within a second reference cycle range among the signals each beyond the first reference cycle range is continuously outputted, counts the predetermined number of signals as the predetermined number of steps.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2007
    Assignee: Seiko Instruments Inc.
    Inventor: Tomoharu Tsuji
  • Patent number: 7217224
    Abstract: A virtual racecourse is mapped by uniting digital pictures with GPS and inclinometer data, stored in a recorded course file, presented in distance increments of the racecourse, and accessed for individual and group competition over the internet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Inventor: Tom Thomas
  • Patent number: 7192387
    Abstract: A system for advising an exerciser about his physical activities, associated either with displacement of the exerciser itself or of an object displaced by the exerciser, or an object displaced simultaneously with the exerciser. The system comprises a first unit for monitoring the activities. This unit is not in physical contact with the exerciser or the object, displaced by the exerciser. The first unit is capable to collect raw data defining the activities either in terms of distance or acceleration. The first unit transmits the collected raw data in a wireless fashion to a second unit, which receives the transmitted raw data, processes it and calculates various parameters, defining the said physical activities, and represents the calculated parameters in a form recognizable by the exerciser. The system enables tracking, recording and updating the relevant information, provides improved feedback and thus helps to the exercising individual to improve his performances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2007
    Assignee: Dintex, Ltd.
    Inventor: Israel Mendel
  • Patent number: 7189190
    Abstract: A group program for resistance exercise training is disclosed. The group program for resistance exercise training includes the steps of: providing a plurality of convertible multi-position exercise units; providing instruction and operating the plurality of exercise units for performing a first exercise in a first configuration; providing instruction in converting the plurality of exercise units from the first configuration to a second configuration; and providing instruction in operating the plurality of exercise units in the second configuration. The exercise units include a frame, a seat positioned on the frame and an adjustable resistance engine attached to the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin Lamar, Teresa Lynn Harvey
  • Patent number: 7169085
    Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for assessments, which can be self-conducted or performed with the assistance of a healthcare provider. The system and method assist a user to interact with a user-centered system utilizing the musculo-skeletal system as a basis for generation a protocol for treatment for wellness, general health, diseases, pre employment physical capacity tests, prevention of repetitive stress, absence management, worker's compensation cost control, disease management, conditions, and athletics. The system and method disclosed assist the user in performing both physical or function capability assessment as well as physical or functional capacity assessment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Therapy Pro Inc.
    Inventors: James P. Killin, Paul Christensen
  • Patent number: 7166062
    Abstract: An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 7163490
    Abstract: An exercise monitoring and recording device includes a motion signal sensing circuit for detecting a series of motion signals of a user and a microprocessor for receiving the motion signals. The microprocessor is connected with at least one exercise expenditure distribution pattern storage for storing the motion signals and generating an exercise expenditure distribution pattern with reference to a real time signal from a real time clock generating circuit. The device includes a daily exercise expenditure distribution pattern storage for storing of daily exercise expenditure distribution pattern, a weekly exercise expenditure distribution pattern storage for storing weekly exercise expenditure distribution pattern, and a monthly exercise expenditure distribution pattern for storing monthly exercise expenditure distribution pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2007
    Inventor: Yu-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 7156773
    Abstract: A walking sensor is attached to a shoe of the user and cooperates with an input device including a detection section detecting a movement of a user's leg, a signal conversion section converting a detection result of the detection section into a control signal, and an output section outputting the control signal to an external device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Sony Corporation
    Inventors: Motoyuki Takai, Yoichiro Sako, Toshiro Terauchi, Makoto Inoue, Masamichi Asukai, Katsuya Shirai, Yasushi Miyajima, Kenichi Makino
  • Patent number: 7121982
    Abstract: A computer interactive isometric exercise system includes an effector, a sensor coupled at a selected location on the effector to measure a force applied by a user to the effector, where the applied force effects a strain on the effector, and control circuitry. The control circuitry includes a processor that receives and processes data corresponding to applied force information measured by the sensor for transference to a host computer. The processed data is transferred in a format compatible with the host computer and facilitates user interaction with the host computer in response to effector manipulation by the user. A plurality of effectors may further be combined together to form a system frame that provides a variety of isometric exercises for the user in combination with user interaction with the host computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2006
    Assignee: PowerGrid Fitness, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip Feldman
  • Patent number: 7115076
    Abstract: A microprocessor based exercise treadmill control system is disclosed which includes various features to enhance user operation. These features include programs operative to: permit a set of user controls to cause the treadmill to initially operate at predetermined speeds; permit the user to design custom workouts; permit the user to switch between workout programs while the treadmill is in operation; and perform an automatic cooldown program where the duration of the cooldown is a function of the duration of the workout or the user's heart rate. The features also include a stop program responsive to a detector for automatically stopping the treadmill when a user is no longer on the treadmill and a frame tag module attached to the treadmill frame having a non-volatile memory for storing treadmill configuration, and operational and maintenance data. Another included feature is the ability to display the amount of time a user spends in a heart rate zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Brunswick Corporation
    Inventors: Gary E. Oglesby, Emil S. Golen, Jr., James B. Fox, John Danile, Robert D. Kohan, Christopher E. Clawson, Kenneth F. Lantz, Daniel R. Willie, Timothy J. Porth
  • Patent number: 7097588
    Abstract: The present invention relates to heart rate monitor displays. More particularly, the present invention relates to methods and apparatuses for displaying a user's heart rate relative to a target heart rate. A progressive heart rate monitor display having two or more indicia adapted to indicate a users heart rate relative to a target heart rate and to signal changes in the user's heart rate is provided. The progressive heart rate monitor display can include a numeric display for representing the heart rate as a numeric value. A method of displaying a user's heart rate in which one or more of the indicia are actuated to signal changes in a user's heart rate relative to a target heart rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2006
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Kirk Lorrigan, Darren Ashby
  • Patent number: 7094180
    Abstract: A control device for a jogging machine includes a stepping board, and a plurality of non-touch sensors arranged in line spaced apart equidistantly on two sides of the stepping board for sensing the position of the two feet of a user dropping on the stepping board for a controller to figure out the speed of the user and then adjust the speed of a moving band moving on and below the stepping board. The control device automatically adjusts the speed of the moving band to suit to the speed of the user's feet. Further, the control device has two angle adjusting sensors respectively fixed on two sides of a handle for adjusting the inclining angle of the stepping board by the user extending a hand nearer to either of the two adjusting sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Assignee: Tonic Fitness Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Chin-Tang Huang, Ching-Tu Shih
  • Patent number: 7083546
    Abstract: The invention concerns a device for signal transmission from a signal transmitter which senses physical operating conditions to a separately installed signal receiver. In order to create a device by means of which the player of a PC or video game is given the possibility of interactive engagement in the course of the game, whereby said device is compatible, for purposes of control, with all of the video game consoles and PCs commonly to be found in trade, the invention proposes a device for signal transmission, wherein an electronic circuit is connected to the signal transmitter, on one hand, and to the signal receiver, on the other hand, and the signals generated by the signal transmitter may be converted, by means of said electronic circuit, to the structure required for the signal receiver, whereby the signal transmitter, in order to sense at least one physical operating condition, is connected to an exercise machine, and whereby a PC or a video game console is provided as the signal receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Inventors: Freya Zillig, Bodo Zillig
  • Patent number: 7083547
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing speed controlled eccentric exercise which include an exercise apparatus having an engagement member for engaging a user's body where the engagement member is moveable in opposite directions, means for enabling the engagement member to exert a force in a first direction at a predetermined speed, means for detecting change in the predetermined speed or pressure of the force after a user applies a force to the engagement means in a direction opposite the first force, and means for adjusting the apparatus supplied force and user supplied forces to equal one another or to maintain the predetermined speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2006
    Assignees: Arizona Board of Regents, Eccentron, LLC
    Inventors: Paul LaStayo, Stan Lindstedt, Hans Hoppeler, Henry Madden, Daniel A. Estoque, William B. Stephens, Gregory D. Volan
  • Patent number: 7074168
    Abstract: A system for improving either or both the physical well-being and physical performance of a person, such as in day-to-day activities or sports-related activities. The person's skeletal and muscular characteristics are assessed relative to such things as flexibility, movement, and strength, and the person's performance characteristics relating to an optimized performance of a task or a sports-related activity (e.g. golf swing) are determined. By matching the differences in the person's physical characteristics and performance characteristics, an optimized physical remedial course can be initiated, as well as a remedial course in improving the physical performance related more to learned defects in performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2006
    Inventors: Larry D. Farnes, Lee Caton, Jon Mortensen
  • Patent number: 7070539
    Abstract: In accordance with the method, system and program of the present invention, at least one type of exercise indicator signal associated with exercise performed by a particular user is received from a particular exercise machine in a common transmittable data format at a portable computer system provided the particular user. Cumulative fitness activity is computed and stored for the particular user at the portable computer system utilizing the at least one type of exercise indicator signal and previously accumulated fitness activity data at the portable computer system, such that an independent portable computer system associated with the particular user monitors the real-time cumulative fitness activity of the particular user from at least one type of exercise indicator signal received from at least one exercise machine over a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Brown, Kelvin Roderick Lawrence, Michael A. Paolini
  • Patent number: 7066865
    Abstract: An exercise and performance evaluation apparatus includes a revolving belt on which a subject can perform bipedal locomotion, a harness for securing the subject at a fixed position relative to the apparatus, a means for measuring the force applied by the subject to the belt, and a means for monitoring and controlling the velocity of the belt. The harnessing of the subject allows monitoring of the velocity as a function of time. An overhead harness may be used to alter the effective mass of the subject. The velocity of the belt may be controlled by a motor and brake system, where the motor may be uni-directional or bi-directional.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventor: Scott B. Radow
  • Patent number: 7063644
    Abstract: A method of developing a workout comprising a series of exercises and communicating the workout to a user is disclosed that involves identifying a muscle group to use during a workout, selecting an intensity level for exercising the muscle group, selecting an exercise from a plurality of exercises for exercising the muscle group, selecting a routine from a plurality of routines for performing each of the plurality of exercises at the selected intensity level, each of the plurality of routines comprising a number of repetitions, selecting a resistance level related to the maximum resistance the user was able to manipulate on a first exercise machine, selecting a second exercise machine for performing the selected exercise, and displaying a workout comprising an identification of the second exercise machine, a name of an exercise to be performed on the second exercise machine, a resistance level to be used in performing the named exercise on the second exercise machine, and information relating to the number of
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Activ Trax
    Inventors: Gary Albert, Eric Westbrook, Lewie Walton, Brian Razzaque
  • Patent number: 7063643
    Abstract: The physical training machine operation system of the present invention is adapted to inexpensively provide up-to-date exercise programs making use of results of medical science, exercise physiology and other sciences, specifically for individual users. A health promotion facility (10) is equipped with a plurality of training machines (12) connected to each other via a private network (11). Each training machine (12) is connected to an external network (22) via a private server (13). In a home (20), a training machine (21) connected to the external network (22) is installed, and a management server (31) connected to the external network (22) is installed in an operation business entity's facility (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: Combi Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuhiko Arai
  • Patent number: 7060008
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for controlling an exercise device with one or more control signals associated with an exercise program received from a telephone answering service. The exercise device includes an input device through which a user can request an exercise program from the telephone answering service. The telephone answering service delivers selectable options to the exercise device, which presents the options to the user. In response to the user selecting a particular option, the telephone answering service delivers the selected exercise program, including one or more control signals, to the exercise device. The exercise device identifies the one or more control signals, either by detecting the audible representation of the one or more control signals or analyzing the electronic representation of the received exercise program, and controls one or more operating parameters of the exercise device based upon such one or more control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 7060006
    Abstract: An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: ICON IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 7060000
    Abstract: A game board device for directing body movements in games, exercise, or physical therapy. It employs a support frame of side-by-side modular units of relatively the same size and shape supporting a continuous matrix of contact surfaces supported in a common plane. The contact surfaces in the adjacent frames are arranged in a coordinated matrix of adjacent surfaces that are illuminatable in various colors. The contact surfaces are illuminated normally one at a time so as to cue sequential steps in a random pattern and at varying speeds in a game or predetermined patterns and adjustable speeds in exercise or therapy. Control of the sequential illumination may be manually or by a program by manually operated device or by computer. It is preferred that the individual frames be hindged to permit folding for storage and transportation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Inventor: Carl A. Carlson
  • Patent number: 7056265
    Abstract: An exercise system includes a plurality of exercise terminals, wherein a workout of an exerciser includes at least two exercises performed at one or more of the exercise terminals. Each exercise terminal includes a communication device for communicating to the exerciser information regarding an exercise of the workout subsequent to a current exercise in the workout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2006
    Inventor: Michael J. Shea
  • Patent number: 7044891
    Abstract: An exercise cycle apparatus displays audio/visual data while in use. The apparatus includes means for displaying audio/visual data positioned at the handlebars of the cycle. A pedal mechanism generates rotational energy and energy converter is connected between the pedal mechanism and the audio/video display means. The energy converter converts the generated rotational energy into electrical energy and the electrical energy is provided to the audio/video display means for displaying the audio/video data thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2006
    Inventor: Juan Rivera
  • Patent number: 7022048
    Abstract: A fitness apparatus for providing a cardiovascular workout to a user is disclosed. The fitness apparatus includes a video display apparatus for selectively displaying video data thereon. A processor is connected to the cardiovascular workout means and the video display apparatus and a storage device connected to the processor for storing said video data thereon. The video data represents at least one exercise course and the processor retrieves the video data from the storage device and directs the video data to be displayed on the video display apparatus while the user uses the cardiovascular workout means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventors: John Fernandez, Juan Fernandez
  • Patent number: 7022047
    Abstract: A computer-implemented interface method for use with a display device associated with an exercise device includes connecting a network connection to the exercise device capable of accessing information stored over a network, partitioning a first portion of the display device associated with the exercise device to display content, partitioning a second portion of the display device associated with the exercise device to display one or more controls that control the exercise device, and providing a selectable element on the display device that upon selection removes the second portion of the display used to display the one or more controls.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Netpulse, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Alvarez Cohen, Tom Proulx, Kent Kobuchi
  • Patent number: 7008231
    Abstract: A glove for assisting the user to catch a thrown object with fingers rather than palms, including pressure sensors installed in the palm area of typical receiver gloves (providing a voltage trigger signal used to latch an indicator LED informing the athlete of palm contact, together with flex sensors in the fingers deactivating the palm pressure sensor when at least one of the user's fingers is flexed inwardly toward the palm (preventing an inadvertent palm pressure trigger signal from locking in the LED prior to a catch attempt). This allows the athlete to run with fists closed without latching the palm pressure indicator, then to open his or her hands, thereby enabling the latch circuit for the catch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Inventors: Patrick Pesnell, Glenn Erskine
  • Patent number: 7004885
    Abstract: In a wheelchair training platform, a wheelchair is connected to a computer system through the training platform, and the training platform detects signals of a rotary speed and a forward direction or a reverse direction of two rear wheels of the wheelchair, and sends the signals to a computer system. The computer system reflects the foregoing rotary speed and direction to a virtual reality interactive software/game, such that the wheelchair has an interaction with the virtual reality interactive software/game.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Taiwan Bicycle Industry R8 D Center
    Inventors: Hong-Sheng Wu, Jhong-Jie Chen, Wei-Long Chen
  • Patent number: 6997853
    Abstract: A communication interface is coupled to an exercise machine and the public communication network. The communication interface receives first exercise information from an exercise machine wherein the first exercise information indicates exercise performance. Some examples of exercise information are video and audio files for competitive tracking with voice and video interaction. The communication interface then generates first communication information based on the first exercise information. In one embodiment, the communication information is in Internet Protocol packets. The communication interface then transmits the first communication information over the public communication network. The communication interface then receives second communication information from the public communication network. The communication interface then generates second exercise information based on the second communication information wherein the second exercise information indicates a response to the exercise performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Sprint Communications Company L.P.
    Inventors: Sandy M. Cuskaden, Arvid G. Evans
  • Patent number: 6991586
    Abstract: A system for simultaneously capturing data from multiple sources from individuals training on exercise equipment is provided. The system utilizes a wireless means of either transferring data to a computer server for permanent storage and interactive analysis or to prompt the delivery of programming content or data from a computer server to the exercise units or attachments affixed thereto. The system also includes an interactive means of incorporating third-party input regarding additional characteristics about each exercise unit, entertainment system or human user that when integrated with the base line equipment data becomes highly relevant and valuable. The present invention utilizes a programmable transceiver that can receive entertainment programming and data communications from a central computer server while simultaneously receiving data from multiple devices attached to or integrated within the exercise unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: Clubcom, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas G. Lapcevic
  • Patent number: 6974403
    Abstract: An exercise method and apparatus for ensuring the completion of a predetermined number of steps each day as part of an exercise routine by integrating steps taken during a normal daily routine with steps taken on a treadmill or stepper machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2005
    Assignee: Acumen, Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Lim-Kong Wong, Ka Yiu Sham
  • Patent number: 6971973
    Abstract: Aspects of the present invention, provide customized content to a consumer on a network-enabled exercise device, include providing an exercise device having a display console, the exercise device being connected to a network, receiving user profile information associated with a consumer operating the exercise device, receiving content information identifying available content for display on the display console, the content information including selection criteria for selecting content to be displayed from the available content, selecting content for display to the consumer based on the content information and the user profile information; and presenting an impression of the selected content to the consumer on the display console.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Assignee: Netpulse, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Alvarez Cohen, Jeffrey P. Cahn
  • Patent number: 6971972
    Abstract: A methodology is disclosed for providing a physical therapy practitioner with practice-specific prescriptive exercise routine depictions as an effective way to enhance compliance of a home-based physical therapy regimen. The method comprises various steps, including assessing a given practitioner's commonly prescribed home-based exercise prescriptions, selecting certain of the exercises for comparison relative to a previously compiled digitized motion picture library containing excerpts showing various exercises. A decision is then made as to whether a representative exercise excerpt is endemic to the physical therapy practitioner. If the excerpt(s) are deemed satisfactory, DVD's are developed and provided to the practitioner. The practitioner may then properly prescribe a home-based physical therapy regimen during an office visit at which time a select set of the developed DVD materials are delivered to the patient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2005
    Inventors: Thomas P. McGovern, Steven L. Mayes
  • Patent number: 6949052
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to devices, systems, and methods for intelligent or ‘smart’ exercise equipment to indicate the location, the intent to use, and/or the amount and/or type of use of a piece of exercise equipment. More specifically, one embodiment of the invention may be used to locate or indicate the location of a portable piece of exercise equipment. Such an indicator may also indicate to other users, a particular user's intent to use the piece of equipment such that other users will not attempt to use the equipment or the current user may end their use of the equipment and pass it to the intended user. In a further embodiment, the indicator may not be activated if the piece of exercise equipment is already in use by a current user. In another embodiment of the invention, the amount of use of, e.g., repetitions done on, a piece of exercise equipment may be indicated to the user or may be logged for later viewing, downloading, or transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Inventors: Peter Millington, Ralph Galetti
  • Patent number: 6945911
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a fitness program that considers a person's fitness level, fitness goals, and body type. Specifically, the present invention provides a system and method for prescribing a fitness program that includes the proper percentage of aerobic versus anaerobic exercise for a person, the specific exercises, the sequence of the exercises, and the preferred resistance for the selected exercises. The prescribed fitness program is based on the person's fitness level, fitness goals (goals such as losing weight, gaining strength, training for a particular sport, gaining mass, enhancing cardiovascular fitness, toning, etc.) and the person's body type. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, there are four body type classifications with three fitness programs provided for each that correspond to three different fitness levels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Edward, LLC
    Inventor: Edward Jackowski
  • Patent number: 6942599
    Abstract: A control panel that that displays workout information and provides audio entertainment to a user while exercising. The control panel has an upper surface, a side surface, an interior housing, an AM/FM radio and a CD player. The upper surface of the control panel contains an exercise switchpad, a main exercise display screen, first and second exercise display windows, a multi-position lever switch, a frequency display window, two pushbutton frequency selection switches, two pushbutton volume adjustment switches and an audio jack. The upper surface is in electrical communication with the radio and the CD player, both of which are located in the interior housing. A CD drive is located in the side surface of the control panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Inventor: Jon Racine
  • Patent number: 6918858
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods for controlling an exercise device with one or more control signals associated with an exercise program received from a telephone answering service. The exercise device includes an input device through which a user can request an exercise program from the telephone answering service. The telephone answering service delivers selectable options to the exercise device, which presents the options to the user. In response to the user selecting a particular option, the telephone answering service delivers the selected exercise program, including one or more control signals, to the exercise device. The exercise device identifies the one or more control signals, either by detecting the audible representation of the one or more control signals or analyzing the electronic representation of the received exercise program, and controls one or more operating parameters of the exercise device based upon such one or more control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, William T. Dalebout, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 6916273
    Abstract: A virtual reality system transposes a user's position and movement in real space to virtual space. The virtual reality system includes a locomotion interface that outputs signals indicative of a user's position in real space. The locomotion interface includes a pressure-sensing mat having a base layer, a plurality of pressure sensing elements and a heating/refrigeration layer formed over the base layer, and a top layer formed over the plurality of pressure-sensing elements. The plurality of pressure sensing elements output a signal indicative of pressure applied to the top layer. A virtual reality processor uses the signals output by the locomotion interface to produce an output indicative of the user's position in the virtual space corresponding to the user's position and movement in the real space. A display uses the output from the virtual reality processor to produce an image of the virtual space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Assignee: Southwest Research Institute
    Inventors: Warren C. Couvillion, Jr., Roger R. Lopez, Jian Ling
  • Patent number: 6902513
    Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to a computerized fitness equipment that is designed to simulate, emulate, or implement actual race conditions with other users. An exemplar fitness equipment includes at least one operating component and sensors to monitor performance parameters of the at least one operating component (such as speed of movement). A display is also provided, along with logic to provide a visual display of a user's performance (as measured through the first performance parameters). In one embodiment, a communication interface is provided to communicate the first performance parameters to at least one remote, similarly-configured, fitness equipment. Performance parameters from the remote fitness equipment are also received through the communication interface. The fitness equipment includes logic to compare the first performance parameters with performance parameters received from remote fitness equipment and display the results in a comparative fashion to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2005
    Inventor: Daniel R. McClure
  • Patent number: 6899656
    Abstract: A method for sports training allows an athlete to move an exercise bar connected between congruent trusses freely in two dimensions. The resistance the bar offers to the movements of the user is programmable and may be varied according to predetermined parameters and also as a predetermined function of measured parameters. The parameters of the exercise may also be recorded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Genesis Alliance, L.L.C.
    Inventors: Allen Kent Johnston, Eike Mueller, Darren Krein
  • Patent number: 6881176
    Abstract: The present invention is for arousing a sense of rivalry to the user so that the user can exhibit an active will to exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2005
    Assignee: Konami Sports Life Corporation
    Inventors: Toshimitsu Oishi, Shin Terao, Takeaki Hayashino, Yurina Oguchi, Yasuhiro Shitan
  • Patent number: 6866613
    Abstract: In accordance with the method, system and program of the present invention, at least one type of exercise indicator signal associated with exercise performed by a particular user is received from a particular exercise machine in a common transmittable data format at a portable computer system provided the particular user. Cumulative fitness activity is computed and stored for the particular user at the portable computer system utilizing the at least one type of exercise indicator signal and previously accumulated fitness activity data at the portable computer system, such that an independent portable computer system associated with the particular user monitors the real-time cumulative fitness activity of the particular user from at least one type of exercise indicator signal received from at least one exercise machine over a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Brown, Kelvin Roderick Lawrence, Michael A. Paolini
  • Patent number: 6863641
    Abstract: In accordance with the method, system and program of the present invention, at least one type of exercise indicator signal associated with exercise performed by a particular user is received from a particular exercise machine in a common transmittable data format at a portable computer system provided the particular user. Cumulative fitness activity is computed and stored for the particular user at the portable computer system utilizing the at least one type of exercise indicator signal and previously accumulated fitness activity data at the portable computer system, such that an independent portable computer system associated with the particular user monitors the real-time cumulative fitness activity of the particular user from at least one type of exercise indicator signal received from at least one exercise machine over a period of time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael Wayne Brown, Kelvin Roderick Lawrence, Michael A. Paolini
  • Patent number: 6852069
    Abstract: A method and system for automatically evaluating the state of a user's physical health includes a game for maintaining the use's interest as he exercises and which automatically measures and evaluates the user's physical strength and health and provides an exercise prescription. The method has a game execution and measurement step performed via a main controller section with a display device, a memory and a virtual subject in the game space. Multiple standardized protocols are selected according to measurements reflected in the game and the virtual subject, reflecting an exercise state of the user on the basis of an exercise state of a reference person in the game. Measuring/reading/storing/displaying physical strength and health information occur after generating events for measuring the physical strength and health information such as particular situations, letters, sounds, voices, etc., in the game content.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: Codisoft, Inc.
    Inventor: Seung-Hun Park
  • Patent number: 6852068
    Abstract: A training machine including a load unit (13) and a pedal (12) or the like for providing an exerciser with predetermined exercise and a display (17) for displaying an image, further including a storage unit (24) for storing a reference range of the heart rate of the exerciser being exercising, a storage unit (24) for storing a plurality of types of images, a heart rate sensor (21A) for sensing the heart rate of the exerciser, a sensor signal detection processing unit and display-audio output processing unit (27B, 27A) for judging whether the exercising state of the exerciser is proper, wherein the display-audio output processing unit (27A) retrieves the image corresponding to the exercising state from the storage unit (24) and displays it on a display unit (17).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: CSK Corporation
    Inventor: Kiyotaka Ogawa
  • Patent number: 6827669
    Abstract: An apparatus for automatically managing the operation of an exercise device includes a timer that determines if a predetermined time interval has elapsed, and an embedded processor that identifies if the exercise device has submitted an indication that it is operational. If the exercise equipment is not operational, the embedded processor transmits a reset signal to the exercise device when the predetermined time interval has elapsed causing the equipment to restart operation properly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: Netpulse, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Alvarez Cohen, Kent Kobuchi, Kevin Folan
  • Patent number: 6827670
    Abstract: A system for treating orthopedic injuries by presenting a set of treatment protocols; approving a treatment protocol from among the presented set of treatment protocols; capturing information identifying the approved treatment protocol from among the set of presented protocols; and generating information from the captured information into a form compatible with a handheld computer adapted for connection to an orthopedic sensor system. The generated information includes parameters of the identified approved treatment protocol. The process may also include the steps of basing the presented set of treatment protocols upon a database of historic patients, orthopedic injuries, treatment protocols and outcomes, and retaining information about the current patient, the patient's injury, treatment protocol and outcome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2004
    Assignee: IZEX Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Stark, Duane Oyen, Timothy J. B. Hanson, Timothy Tracey, Steven Backes, Gary Manninen
  • Patent number: 6824499
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a control console automatically planning a personal exercise program in accordance with the physical condition measured through the whole exercise session. The control console is in connection with a heartbeat detector for any fitness equipment. A microprocessor is fitted within the control console and used to record the related change and the interactive relationship of the heartbeat value under exercise parameters of distance, speed, duration and slope during the whole exercise session whenever the operator uses the electric treadmill. Therefore, the current physical state of the certain operator can be exactly detected so as to automatically plan an optimal exercise program according to the personal physical state. In addition, this program will be saved and used for next time when the operator uses the electric treadmill again. Meanwhile, the current physical condition will be measured again so as to renew another optimal exercise program for the certain operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Inventors: Peter Wu, Leao Wang