U.S. patent number 10,881,909 [Application Number 16/582,327] was granted by the patent office on 2021-01-05 for training instrument and input device.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Nintendo Co., Ltd.. The grantee listed for this patent is Nintendo Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Kazuhiro Hosoi, Hiroki Ikuta, Xiaoming Jin, Ryoji Kuroda, Takanori Okamura, Satoru Osako, Hitoshi Tsuchiya, Shinji Yamamoto.
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United States Patent |
10,881,909 |
Kuroda , et al. |
January 5, 2021 |
Training instrument and input device
Abstract
A non-limiting example training instrument comprises a hollow
main body formed of an aluminum alloy. The main body is constituted
by two gripping portions opposite to each other with a space
therebetween and a coupling portion coupling the two gripping
portions. A load sensor is arranged in the coupling portion inside
the main body. The load sensor is a load cell, a strain gauge
affixed to an interior of the main body, and a part of the main
body to which the strain gauge is affixed functions as a strain
body. Therefore, if a user applies a force so as to bring the two
gripping portions close to each other or a force so as to move the
two gripping portions away from each other, a load thereof is
detected by the load sensor.
Inventors: |
Kuroda; Ryoji (Kyoto,
JP), Yamamoto; Shinji (Kyoto, JP), Ikuta;
Hiroki (Kyoto, JP), Okamura; Takanori (Kyoto,
JP), Jin; Xiaoming (Kyoto, JP), Tsuchiya;
Hitoshi (Kyoto, JP), Hosoi; Kazuhiro (Kyoto,
JP), Osako; Satoru (Kyoto, JP) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Nintendo Co., Ltd. |
Kyoto |
N/A |
JP |
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Assignee: |
Nintendo Co., Ltd. (Kyoto,
JP)
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Family
ID: |
55746491 |
Appl.
No.: |
16/582,327 |
Filed: |
September 25, 2019 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20200016460 A1 |
Jan 16, 2020 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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15487803 |
Apr 14, 2017 |
10471303 |
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PCT/JP2015/076622 |
Sep 18, 2015 |
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Foreign Application Priority Data
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Oct 16, 2014 [JP] |
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2014-211713 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B
24/0059 (20130101); A63B 24/0062 (20130101); A63B
23/0355 (20130101); A63F 13/245 (20140902); A63B
71/0622 (20130101); A63B 21/4035 (20151001); A63B
24/0087 (20130101); A63F 13/24 (20140902); G09B
19/003 (20130101); A63B 2209/00 (20130101); A63B
2208/02 (20130101); A63B 2024/0068 (20130101); A63B
2220/803 (20130101); A63B 2225/74 (20200801); A63B
2208/0204 (20130101); A63B 2024/0009 (20130101); A63B
2208/0223 (20130101); A63B 2208/0233 (20130101); A63B
2071/065 (20130101); A63B 2071/0625 (20130101); A63B
2225/50 (20130101); A63B 2220/40 (20130101); A63B
2230/50 (20130101); A63B 2071/0655 (20130101) |
Current International
Class: |
A63B
24/00 (20060101); A63F 13/24 (20140101); A63F
13/245 (20140101); A63B 21/00 (20060101); G09B
19/00 (20060101); A63B 23/035 (20060101); A63B
71/06 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;463/37 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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101143262 |
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102243934 |
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105457316 |
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106896912 |
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2001-104636 |
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Apr 2001 |
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JP |
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2007-307284 |
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2009-020656 |
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2010-088724 |
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2011-076440 |
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2014-164657 |
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JP |
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2018-099430 |
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Jun 2018 |
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JP |
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2018-110680 |
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Jul 2018 |
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JP |
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10-0293879 |
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Sep 2002 |
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KR |
|
2011/119052 |
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Sep 2011 |
|
WO |
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WO 2011/119052 |
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Sep 2011 |
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WO |
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2014/038049 |
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Mar 2014 |
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WO |
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2016/059943 |
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Apr 2016 |
|
WO |
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2018/131239 |
|
Nov 2019 |
|
WO |
|
Other References
US. Appl. No. 16/656,968, filed Oct. 18, 2019; Tamura et al. cited
by applicant .
U.S. Appl. No. 16/656,994, filed Oct. 18, 2019; Niwa et al. cited
by applicant .
International Search Report for PCT/JP2015/076622, dated Dec. 22,
2015, 4 pages. cited by applicant .
Extended European Search Report dated May 4, 2018 issued in
European Application No. 15850661.8 (7 pgs.). cited by applicant
.
U.S. Appl. No. 16/656,991, filed Oct. 18, 2019; Niwa et al. cited
by applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Elisca; Pierre E
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Nixon & Vanderhye PC
Parent Case Text
CROSS REFERENCE STATEMENT
This application is a continuation of application Ser. No.
15/487,803 filed Apr. 14, 2017, which is a continuation of
International Application No. PCT/JP2015/076622 filed Sep. 18,
2015, which claims priority to Japanese patent application No.
2014-211713 filed on Oct. 16, 2014, the entire contents of each of
which are hereby incorporated by reference in this application.
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A training instrument, comprising: a main body comprising first
and second grip areas spaced apart from one another by at least a
curving portion; a strain gauge remote from the first and second
grip areas; a first electromechanical connector; and a pocket
shaped and arranged to have a controller removably provided
thereto, the controller including a battery, a processor, a
transceiver, and a second electromechanical connector configured to
physically engage with the first electromechanical connector when
the controller is provided to the pocket; wherein the strain gauge
is configured to be powered by the battery and to output to the
controller data indicative of a deformation of the training
instrument caused by a force applied to the first and second grip
areas by a user, when the controller is provided to the pocket, via
the first and second electromechanical connectors.
2. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the strain gauge is
provided in the curving portion.
3. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the strain gauge is
provided to the training instrument in a region remote from the
curving portion.
4. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the grip areas are
provided at opposing sides of the main body.
5. The training instrument of claim 1, further comprising handgrips
provided to the first and second grip areas.
6. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the main body is
U-shaped.
7. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the transceiver is
configured to transmit to an external terminal data generated at
the training instrument.
8. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the transceiver is
configured to transmit to an external terminal data indicative of a
deformation of the training instrument output from the strain
gauge.
9. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the controller
further comprises an inertia sensor configured to be powered by the
battery and to output to the controller sensed data, when the
controller is provided to the pocket.
10. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the controller
further comprises a user-operable button.
11. The training instrument of claim 10, wherein the user-operable
button is a power button.
12. The training instrument of claim 11, wherein the user-operable
button is a power button that is usable to turn on power for the
training instrument when the controller is provided to the
pocket.
13. The training instrument of claim 11, wherein the user-operable
button is a power button that is usable to cause the strain gauge
to start outputting data when the controller is provided to the
pocket and provided that a connection is established between the
controller and the training instrument.
14. The training instrument of claim 10, wherein the grip areas are
arranged in a first plane in which the training instrument is able
to deform, and wherein the button is depressible in a second plane,
the first and second planes being orthogonal to one another.
15. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the controller
further comprises a light and/or a speaker configured to be powered
by the battery when the controller is provided to the pocket.
16. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the pocket is
formed in a hollow portion of the main body.
17. The training instrument of claim 1, wherein the main body is
circularly-shaped.
18. A training instrument, comprising: a main body comprising first
and second grip areas spaced apart from one another by at least a
curving portion; a strain gauge remote from the first and second
grip areas; and a receiving portion configured to have a controller
detachably attached thereto, the controller including a battery, a
processor, and a transceiver; wherein the strain gauge is
configured to be powered by the battery and to output to the
controller data indicative of a deformation of the training
instrument caused by a force applied to the first and second grip
areas by a user, when the controller is attached to the receiving
portion.
19. The training instrument of claim 18, wherein the controller
further comprises a user-operable power button.
20. The training instrument of claim 19, wherein the power button
is usable to turn on power for the training instrument when the
controller is attached to the receiving portion.
21. The training instrument of claim 19, wherein the power button
is usable to cause the strain gauge to start outputting data when
the controller is attached to the receiving portion and provided
that a connection is established between the controller and the
training instrument.
22. The training instrument of claim 19, wherein the grip areas are
arranged in a first plane in which the training instrument is able
to deform, and wherein the power button is depressible in a second
plane, the first and second planes being orthogonal to one
another.
23. The training instrument of claim 19, wherein the controller
further comprises a light and/or a speaker configured to be powered
by the battery when the controller is attached to the receiving
portion.
24. A training system comprising, comprising: a controller; and a
training instrument, comprising: a main body comprising first and
second grip areas spaced apart from one another by at least a
curving portion; a strain gauge remote from the first and second
grip areas; a first electromechanical connector; and a pocket
shaped and arranged to have the controller removably provided
thereto, the controller including a battery, a processor, a
transceiver, and a second electromechanical connector configured to
physically engage with the first electromechanical connector when
the controller is provided to the pocket; wherein the strain gauge
is configured to be powered by the battery and to output to the
controller data indicative of a deformation of the training
instrument caused by a force applied to the first and second grip
areas by a user, when the controller is provided to the pocket, via
the first and second electromechanical connectors.
25. The training system of claim 24, further comprising an external
terminal, wherein the transceiver of the training instrument is
configured to transmit to the external terminal data indicative of
a deformation of the training instrument output from the strain
gauge.
26. A training system comprising, comprising: a controller; and a
training instrument, comprising: a main body comprising first and
second grip areas spaced apart from one another by at least a
curving portion; a strain gauge remote from the first and second
grip areas; and a receiving portion configured to have the
controller detachably attached thereto, the controller including a
battery, a processor, and a transceiver; wherein the strain gauge
is configured to be powered by the battery and to output to the
controller data indicative of a deformation of the training
instrument caused by a force applied to the first and second grip
areas by a user, when the controller is attached to the receiving
portion.
27. A training method comprising: having a training instrument
including a main body comprising first and second grip areas spaced
apart from one another by at least a curving portion; a strain
gauge remote from the first and second grip areas; a first
electromechanical connector; and a pocket shaped and arranged to
have a controller removably provided thereto, the controller
including a battery, a processor, a transceiver, and a second
electromechanical connector configured to physically engage with
the first electromechanical connector when the controller is
provided to the pocket; wherein the strain gauge is configured to
be powered by the battery and to output to the controller data
indicative of a deformation of the training instrument caused by a
force applied to the first and second grip areas by a user, when
the controller is provided to the pocket, via the first and second
electromechanical connectors; and wherein the controller is
provided to the pocket; and transmitting, to an external terminal
via the transceiver, data indicative of a deformation of the
training instrument output from the strain gauge.
28. A training method comprising: having a training instrument
including a main body comprising first and second grip areas spaced
apart from one another by at least a curving portion; a strain
gauge remote from the first and second grip areas; and a receiving
portion configured to have a controller detachably attached
thereto, the controller including a battery, a processor, and a
transceiver; wherein the strain gauge is configured to be powered
by the battery and to output to the controller data indicative of a
deformation of the training instrument caused by a force applied to
the first and second grip areas by a user, when the controller is
attached to the receiving portion; and wherein the controller is
attached to the receiving portion; and transmitting, to an external
terminal via the transceiver, data indicative of a deformation of
the training instrument output from the strain gauge.
Description
FIELD
This application describes a training instrument and an input
device that detect at least a load.
SUMMARY
A first aspect is a training instrument comprising a main body, a
load sensor, and a communication portion. The main body has two
gripping portions opposite to each other with a space therebetween
and a coupling portion that is non-movably joined to each of the
two gripping portions and couples the two gripping portions. The
load sensor is provided inside the main body, and configured to
detect a load applied to the main body. The communication portion
is configured to wirelessly transmit a detected value of the load
sensor.
According to the first aspect, since the load applied to the
gripping portions is detected, there are very little restriction in
a posture of a user and a use manner, and it can be used for
various training. Therefore, a range of training can be
expanded.
A second aspect is the training instrument according to the first
aspect, wherein the load sensor is configured to repeatedly detect
the load applied to the main body, and the communication portion is
configured to repeatedly transmit the detected value of the load
sensor.
A third aspect is the training instrument according to the first
aspect, further comprising an inertial sensor that is provided
inside the main body and configured to detect at least one of a
tilt and a motion of the main body. The communication portion is
configured to transmit the detected value of the load sensor and a
detected value of the inertial sensor.
According to the third aspect, the range of training can be
expanded like the first aspect.
A fourth aspect is the training instrument according to the first
aspect, further comprising a correction value storing portion. The
correction value storing portion is configured to store a
correction value of the detected value of the load sensor. For
example, the correction value for eliminating an error between the
load value of the load applied to the main body and the load value
detected at that time by the load sensor is stored. The
communication portion is configured to transmit a detected value of
the load sensor corrected by using the correction value that is
stored in the correction value storing portion.
According to the fourth aspect, since the detected value of the
load sensor is corrected, it is possible to eliminate a measurement
error due to individual differences of training instruments, for
example.
A fifth aspect is the training instrument according to the first
aspect, wherein the communication portion is configured to perform
a communication with an external terminal.
According to the fifth aspect, it is possible to transmit the
detected load to the external terminal.
A sixth aspect is the training instrument according to the fifth
aspect, wherein the detection value of the load sensor is
accumulated in the external terminal, and the external terminal
comprises a calculation portion configured to perform the
predetermined calculation processing with using the detected value
of the load sensor accumulated for a predetermined time period.
According to the sixth aspect, it is possible to reduce the number
of times of the calculation processing.
A seventh aspect is the training instrument according to the fifth
aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to present to a
user at least one of load information based on the detected value
of the load sensor and information based on the load information
concerned.
According to the seventh aspect, the user can know easily whether
the training is performed correctly.
An eighth aspect is the training instrument according to the fifth
aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to execute a
predetermined application, and to present information related to a
training method to a user.
According to the eighth aspect, since the user only needs to
perform training according to the information related to a training
method, even a user who does not know a training method can easily
perform the training.
A ninth aspect is the training instrument according to the eighth
aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to execute the
application, and to compare the load information based on the
detected value of the load sensor with a predetermined value that
is set in advance.
A tenth aspect is the training instrument according to the eighth
aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to execute the
application, and to determine whether the load information based on
the detected value of the load sensor exists within a predetermined
range, and to present load correction information for urging the
user to correct the load that is applied to the gripping portions
when the load information exists out of the predetermined
range.
According to the tenth aspect, since the external terminal urges
the user to correct the load, it is possible to guide the user to
apply a correct load.
An eleventh aspect is the training instrument according to the
seventh aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to
calculate a training result (history) based on the load information
as an index so as to present to the user.
According to the eleventh aspect, since the training result is
presented to the user as an index, the user can perform training
continuously while confirming the achievement of training.
A twelfth aspect is the training instrument according to the
seventh aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to
perform presentation to the user by a screen display or a sound
output.
According to the twelfth aspect, the presentation to the user is
performed by the screen display or the sound output, and therefore,
the user can know a content to be presented while performing the
training.
A thirteenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
fifth aspect, wherein the external terminal is configured to
transmit at least one of the load information and the information
obtained from the load information concerned to a server, and the
server is configured to receive the at least one of the load
information and the information obtained from the load information
concerned, and to accumulate the same.
According to the thirteenth aspect, it is possible to manage on a
side of a server at least one of the load information and the
information obtained from the load information concerned.
A fourteenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
thirteenth aspect, wherein the server is configured to accumulate
at least one of the load information and the information obtained
from the load information concerned for each user.
According to the fourteenth aspect, the server can provide a
service per user.
A fifteenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
fourteenth aspect, wherein the server is configured to transmit to
the external terminal at least one of load information of a further
user and information obtained from the load information concerned.
The external terminal is configured to associate at least one of
the load information of the user of the external terminal concerned
and the information obtained from the load information concerned
with at least one of the received load information of the further
user and the information obtained from the load information
concerned so as to present to the user. For example, a result of
comparison of the load information of the user and the information
obtained from the load information concerned with the load
information of the further user and the information obtained from
the load information concerned is presented to the user.
According to the fifteenth aspect, since at least one of the load
information and the information obtained from the load information
concerned is presented to the user in association with those of the
further user, it seems that competitiveness of the user is
encouraged and motivation to continue the training is enhanced, for
example.
A sixteenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
thirteenth aspect, wherein the server comprises a providing portion
configured to provide a content or service to the external terminal
based on at least one of the received load information and the
information obtained from the load information concerned.
According to the sixteenth aspect, since the server provides a
content or service to the external terminal at least, it is
possible to enhance motivation to perform the training and the
training continuously.
A seventeenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
sixteenth aspect, wherein the server comprises a condition judging
portion configured to judge whether at least one of the received
load information and the information obtained from the load
information concerned satisfies a predetermined condition. The
providing portion is configured to provide the content or service
to the external terminal when the condition judging portion judges
that the predetermined condition is satisfied.
According to the seventeenth aspect, since the content or service
is provided when satisfying the predetermined condition, it is
possible to more enhance motivation to perform the training and the
training continuously.
A eighteenth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, further comprising a socket portion that is attached
to the main body so that a part thereof is accommodated inside the
main body, wherein the communication portion is provided inside the
socket portion.
According to the eighteenth aspect, since the communication portion
is provided inside the socket portion that is attached to the main
body, the communication portion can be provided inside the main
body.
A nineteenth aspect is a training instrument comprising a main
body, a load sensor, and an inertial sensor. The main body has two
gripping portions opposite to each other with a space therebetween
and a coupling portion that is non-movably joined to each of the
two gripping portions and couples the two gripping portions. The
load sensor is provided inside the main body, and configured to
detect a load applied to the main body. Then, the inertial sensor
is provided inside the main body, and configured to detect at least
one of a posture and a motion of the main body.
According also to the nineteenth aspect, a range of training can be
expanded like the first aspect.
A twentieth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the load sensor is configured to detect a
first load acting in a direction to bring the two gripping portions
close to each other or a second load acting in a direction to move
the two gripping portions away from each other.
A twenty-first aspect is the training instrument according to the
twentieth aspect, further comprising a load value storing portion
configured to store a load value corresponding to the first load or
the second load detected by the load sensor.
A twenty-second aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the load sensor is arranged in a position
except the two gripping portions of the main body.
According to the twenty-second aspect, since the load sensor is
arranged in a position other than the gripping portions, when the
user holds the gripping portions to apply a load to the main body,
the load sensor can detect the load.
A twenty-third aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the coupling portion is configured to couple
the two gripping portions so that the main body forms a
substantially U-letter shape, and the load sensor is arranged in a
portion corresponding to a bottom side of the U-letter shape.
A twenty-fourth is the training instrument according to the first
aspect, wherein the main body is formed in a hollow cylindrical
shape.
According to the twenty-fourth aspect, it is possible to
incorporate the load sensor and other electronic components in the
main body.
A twenty-fifth aspect is the training instrument according to the
twenty-fourth aspect, wherein the load sensor and the inertial
sensor are arranged inside the main body.
A twenty-sixth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein in a cross-sectional shape of each of the
gripping portions, an inner side that the two gripping portions are
opposed is made narrow and an outer side is made wide.
According to the twenty-sixth aspect, each of the two gripping
portions is formed in a shape that the user tends to apply a
force.
A twenty-seventh aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein each of the gripping portions is provided
with a positioning portion for hand or finger of the user.
According to the twenty-seventh aspect, since the positioning
portion is provided, when the user uses the training instrument,
the user grips the same or approximately the same position each
time. Therefore, it is possible to stably detect (measure) the load
that is applied to the main body.
A twenty-eighth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the main body is not plastically
deformed.
A twenty-ninth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, further comprising a power button on the main body,
wherein the power button is arranged in a position except the two
gripping portions.
According to the twenty-ninth aspect, the power button does not
interfere with the training.
A thirtieth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, further comprising at least one of a light emitting
portion, a sound outputting portion and a vibrating portion on the
main body.
According to the thirtieth aspect, it is possible to notify
predetermined information to the user by at least one of light
blinking, sound and vibration.
A thirty-first aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the main body contains a battery.
A thirty-second aspect is the training instrument according to the
nineteenth aspect, wherein the inertial sensor is at least one of
an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor.
According to the thirty-second aspect, it is possible to detect a
change of tilt (posture) and a motion of the training instrument.
Therefore, a posture and a motion of the user who holds the
training instrument can be detected.
A thirty-third aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the load sensor is a distortion sensor.
A thirty-fourth aspect is the training instrument according to the
nineteenth aspect, wherein the distortion sensor is a load cell.
For example, a strain gauge is affixed to an interior of the main
body, and a portion of the main body to which the strain gauge is
affixed functions as a strain body.
According to the thirty-fourth aspect, the load that is applied to
the gripping portions can be detected with simple structure.
A thirty-fifth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, further comprising an attaching portion for an
assistance member.
According to the thirty-fifth aspect, since it is possible to
further use the assistance member, the range of training can be
further expanded.
A thirty-sixth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the gripping portions and the coupling
portion are integrally formed.
A thirty-seventh aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the gripping portions and the coupling
portion are separately formed.
A thirty-eighth aspect is the training instrument according to the
first aspect, wherein the gripping portions and the coupling
portion are integrally formed by extrusion molding.
A thirty-ninth aspect is a training instrument, comprising a main
body having two gripping portions held by both hand of a user; a
load sensor that is provided inside the main body and configured to
detect a load acting in a direction to bring the two gripping
portions close to each other or a load acting in a direction to
move the two gripping portions away from each other; a correction
value storing portion configured to store a correction value of the
detected value of the load sensor; and a communication portion
configured to wirelessly transmit a detected value of the load
sensor that is corrected by using the correction value that is
stored in the correction value storing portion.
One or more of the features of the sixth to seventeenth aspects and
features of the twentieth to thirty-eighth aspects can be suitably
employed in this forty-eighth aspect.
A fortieth aspect is an input device of game apparatus, comprising
a main body, a load sensor, a direction input portion, and a
communication portion. The main body has two gripping portions held
by both hands of a user and a coupling portion that is non-movably
joined to each of the two gripping portions and couples the two
gripping portions. The load sensor is provided inside the main
body, and configured to detect a load applied to the main body. The
direction input portion is provided within a range capable of being
operated in a state where the user holds the gripping portions of
the main body. The communication portion is configured to transmit
to the game apparatus at least one of a detected value of the load
sensor and an operation signal of the direction input portion.
According to the fortieth aspect, it is possible to provide a novel
input device of a game apparatus, which inputs not only the signal
of the direction input portion but a load.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
FIG. 1(A) is a front view of the training instrument viewed from
the front, FIG. 1(B) is a top view of the training instrument
viewed from the above, and FIG. 1(C) is an illustration view
showing an outline of a configuration of a socket portion provided
on the training instrument.
FIG. 2 is an illustration view showing a non-limiting example
training system using the training instrument shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing non-limiting example electric
structure of the training instrument shown in FIG. 1 and FIG.
2.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing non-limiting example electric
structure of a portable terminal shown in FIG. 2.
FIG. 5(A) is an example of a menu screen, and FIG. 5(B) is an
example of a setting screen.
FIG. 6(A) is an example of a selection screen, and FIG. 6(B) is an
example of a training screen.
FIG. 7(A) is a further example of the training screen, and FIG.
7(B) is a still further example of the training screen.
FIG. 8 is an illustration view showing the other non-limiting
example training screen displayed on the portable terminal.
FIG. 9(A) is an illustration view that expresses with an avatar a
posture of a user in a state where the user stands upright at time
of squat, and FIG. 9(B) is an illustration view that expresses with
an avatar the posture of the user in a state where the user sits
down at the time of squat.
FIG. 10 is an illustration view showing a non-limiting example
memory map of a RAM incorporated in the training instrument shown
in FIG. 3.
FIG. 11 is an illustration view showing a non-limiting example
memory map of a RAM incorporated in the portable terminal shown in
FIG. 4.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a part of non-limiting example
control processing of a processor incorporated in the training
instrument shown in FIG. 3.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart of another part of the non-limiting example
control processing of the processor incorporated in the training
instrument shown in FIG. 3, following FIG. 12.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the other part of the non-limiting
example control processing of the processor incorporated in the
training instrument shown in FIG. 3, following FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a part of non-limiting example
muscle training processing of the processor incorporated in the
portable terminal shown in FIG. 4.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing another part of the non-limiting
example muscle training processing of the processor incorporated in
the portable terminal shown in FIG. 4, following FIG. 15.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the other part of the non-limiting
example muscle training processing of the processor incorporated in
the portable terminal shown in FIG. 4, following FIG. 16.
FIG. 18 is an illustration view showing non-limiting example
network system using the portable terminal shown in FIG. 2 and FIG.
3.
FIG. 19 is an illustration view showing non-limiting example
management information stored in a measurement value database shown
in FIG. 18.
FIG. 20 is an illustration view showing non-limiting example reward
information managed in a server shown in FIG. 18.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing non-limiting example reward
determination processing of a CPU of the server shown in FIG.
18.
FIG. 22(A) is a front view of the training instrument viewed from
the front, FIG. 22(B) is a top view of the training instrument
viewed from the above, FIG. 22(C) is a side view of the training
instrument viewed from a right side, and FIG. 22(D) is a cross
sectional view at a line IIXIID-IIXIID in FIG. 22(A).
FIG. 23(A) is a front view of the training instrument viewed from
the front, FIG. 23(B) is a top view of the training instrument
viewed from the above, FIG. 23(C) is a side view of the training
instrument viewed from a right side, and FIG. 23(D) is a cross
sectional view at a line IIXIIID-IIXIIID in FIG. 23(A).
FIG. 24(A) is an illustration view of the training instrument
having a main body in a shape of ring, and FIG. 24(B) is an
illustration view of the training instrument having a main body in
a shape of 8-letter with sideways.
FIG. 25 is an illustration view showing a non-limiting example
input device using the training instrument shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 26 is an illustration view showing a further non-limiting
example training instrument shown in FIG. 1.
FIG. 27(A) is an illustration view showing a part of state where
the training instrument is attached with a tube member and FIG.
27(B) is an illustration view showing of a fixture of the tube
member.
FIG. 28(A) is an illustration view showing a state where the
training instrument is attached with a handle and FIG. 28(B) is an
illustration view showing a state where the training instrument is
attached with another handle.
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
With referring to FIG. 1(A), a non-limiting example training
instrument 10 of an embodiment comprises a hollow main body 12, and
the main body 12 is constituted by two gripping portions 12a and a
coupling portion 12b. As shown in FIG. 1(A), in this embodiment,
the main body 12 is formed in a U-letter shape when viewing from
the front. In this embodiment, the above-described gripping
portions 12a are vertical bar portions of the U-letter of the main
body 12, and the other portion (a curve line portion or curved
portion of the U-letter) is the coupling portion 12b. That is, in
this embodiment, the coupling portion 12b is non-movably coupled
(joined) with each of the two gripping portions 12a. However, since
the main body 12 of this embodiment is integrally formed by a
molding method described later, in fact, a process that the two
gripping portions 12a and the coupling portion 12b are coupled
(joined) to each other is not performed.
In addition, it should be noted that each of the two gripping
portions 12a and the coupling portion 12b may be separately and
independently formed, and each of the two gripping portions 12a may
be non-movably coupled or joined (fixed) to the coupling portion
12b.
In this embodiment, since it is used when a user performs training,
an instrument or device (10) shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B) is called
a training instrument, but may be called a health appliance or
sports equipment. Moreover, it may be also referred to as a
measurement device that detects (measures) a load value,
acceleration, angular velocity, etc. Furthermore, it may be
referred to as a transmission device or an input device that
transmits or inputs the measured load value, acceleration, angular
velocity, etc. to an external terminal or apparatus.
Moreover, the main body 12 is formed of an aluminum alloy, for
example, and a thickness of the aluminum alloy is set to
approximately 3 mm. This is for preventing the main body 12 from
being plastically deformed even if a force (load) is applied
thereto, which pushes the two gripping portions 12a in an opposite
direction (pushing the two vertical bars of the U-letter inwardly),
or pulls the two gripping portions 12a in a direction reverse to
the opposite direction (pulling the two vertical bars of the
U-letter outwardly), or twists the two gripping portions 12a in a
direction perpendicular to the opposite direction (twisting the two
vertical bars of the U-letter in a back-and-forth direction).
Strictly speaking, when a force greater than a predetermined
magnitude (a load exceeding approximately 150 kg) is applied to the
main body 12, the main body 12 may be deformed. However, the
training instrument 10 of this embodiment is not used by athletes,
it is assumed that ordinary men and women from the late teens to
around 60 generations use it, and therefore, strength of the main
body 12 is sufficient. That is, the main body 12 is excellent in
durability.
However, it does not need to be limited to an aluminum alloy, and
the main body 12 may be formed of titanium, stainless steel,
carbon, etc.
For example, the main body 12 is formed by extrusion molding an
aluminum alloy into a pipe shape having a predetermined
cross-sectional shape, cutting the molded pipe at a predetermined
length, and then subjecting the pipe to bending processing.
However, the main body 12 may be formed by injection molding. That
is, the main body 12 is integrally molded. As seen from FIG. 1(B)
that the training instrument 10 is viewed from the above, in this
embodiment, the predetermined cross-sectional shape is a triangle
with rounded corners. Moreover, the main body 12 is formed so that
one vertex of the triangle that is a cross-sectional shape faces
(located inside) on the two gripping portions 12a when bending the
pipe. Therefore, a side opposing to that one vertex becomes in a
direction reverse to a direction that the two gripping portions 12a
face (located outer side).
Since the cross-sectional shape of the main body 12 is formed in
such a manner, when the user holds the main body 12 (training
instrument 10) by the both hands and applies a force that pulls the
two gripping portions 12a outwardly (in a separating direction), a
joint of a finger can be hooked on a side corresponding to the
above-described one vertex of the triangle located an inside.
Moreover, when the user holds the main body 12 by the both hands
and applies a force that pushes the two gripping portions 12a
inwardly, it is possible to press a palm against an outside surface
that is opposed to the side that the finger is hooked. Therefore,
the user easily imposes (applies) a force. However, the
cross-sectional shape of the main body 12 is not necessarily
limited to a triangular shape with rounded corners, and may be a
circular shape, other polygonal shape (square, pentagon, hexagon,
etc.) with rounded corners, etc.
Moreover, the main body 12 comprises a control board 14 and a load
sensor 16 that are incorporated in the main body 12. As shown in
FIG. 1(B), the load sensor 16 is arranged in a portion except the
gripping portions 12a (the coupling portion 12b, in this
embodiment), and is electrically connected to the control board 14
(processor 30) using a connector 16a and a cable 16b. In this
embodiment, the load sensor 16 is arranged inside the lowermost
portion of the main body 12 formed in the shape of a U-letter shape
(portion corresponding to a bottom side of the U-letter), i.e., a
portion that the main body 12 curves. As shown also in FIG. 1(A),
the load sensor 16 is arranged in a position that is an inside of
the main body 12 and an outer periphery side of the curved
portion.
As shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(C), the control board 14 is provided
inside a socket portion 18a inserted into one opening portion of
the main body 12. The socket portion 18a (a socket portion 18b
described later is also the same) is formed by a resin such as an
epoxy resin, phenol resin, polyurethane, for example. Moreover, the
connector 14a is provided with a connector 14a into which the
connector 16a is inserted. Various kinds of circuit components
described later are mounted in this control board 14 (see FIG.
3).
Moreover, as shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(C), the socket portion 18a
is formed with a level difference that functions as a stopper when
attached to the main body 12, and an LED lamp 20 of a ring shape is
provided in this level difference portion. This LED lamp 20 is
electrically connected to the control board 14 (processor 30).
Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 1(B), a power button 22 is provided
on the socket portion 18a, and a depressing portion of the power
button 22 is provided on an upper surface of this socket portion
18a. That is, the power button 22 is arranged in a position
different from the gripping portions 12a. This power button 22 is
also electrically connected to the control board 14 (processor 30).
Since the power button 22 is provided in one end portion of the
main body 12, and it does not become obstructive even if holding
the main body 12. That is, the power button 22 is arranged in a
position that does not become an obstacle of training. Therefore,
it is possible to prevent the power button 22 from being
accidentally depressed during training.
Furthermore, as shown in FIGS. 1(A) and 1(C), the socket portion
18a is provided with a connector 24 for connecting a charging cable
for charging a secondary battery 34 (see FIG. 3) as described
later.
FIG. 2 is an illustration view showing an example of a training
system 100 using the training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 1. As
shown in FIG. 2, the training system 100 includes the training
instrument 10 and a portable terminal 110. The training instrument
10 and the portable terminal 110 are connected
wireless-communicably. However, the training instrument 10 and the
portable terminal 110 may be connected with a cable.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing electric structure of the
training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2. As shown in FIG.
3, the training instrument 10 includes a processor 30, and the
processor 30 is connected with a power supply circuit 32, a RAM 36,
a flash memory 38, a wireless communication circuit 40, a buzzer
44, an acceleration sensor 46, a gyro sensor 48, a temperature
sensor 50 and a vibrating motor 52. Moreover, the above-described
load sensor 16, LED lamp 20 and power button 22 are also connected
to the processor 30. Furthermore, the power supply circuit 32 is
connected with the above-described connector 24 and the secondary
battery 34. Furthermore, an antenna 42 is connected to the wireless
communication circuit 40.
Moreover, out of the circuit components shown in FIG. 3, the
circuit components except the load sensor 16, the LED lamp 20, the
power button 22, the connector 24 and the vibrating motor 52 are
mounted on the above-described control board 14.
The processor 30 manages overall control of the training instrument
10. The power supply circuit 32 supplies a power supply (voltage)
from the secondary battery 34 to respective circuit components
under instructions of the processor 30. The power supply circuit 32
includes a charge control circuit, and a charging voltage obtained
by stepping down and rectifying commercial power source is supplied
to the charging control circuit via the charging cable and the
connector 24, whereby the secondary battery 34 can be charged by
the charging control circuit.
The RAM 36 is used as a buffer memory and a working memory of the
processor 30. The flash memory 38 is a main storage of the training
instrument 10, which stores a control program(s) of this training
instrument 10, and stores information (correction value of load)
unique of the training instrument 10, and stores the number of
times of use of the training instrument 10 (number of measurement
times of a load equal to or larger than a predetermined value).
The wireless communication circuit 40 has a short-distance wireless
communication function and wirelessly communicates with a further
device (the portable terminal 110, in this embodiment) via the
antenna 42 under the control of the processor 30. In this
embodiment, the wireless communication circuit 40 operates
according to Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard. This is an
example, and as the wireless communication circuit 40, a
communication circuit that performs short distance wireless
communication of a Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) system. However, Wi-Fi
is a name that has been certified by a predetermined certification
organization concerning interconnectivity among wireless devices
using communication standards of IEEE 802.11 series (IEEE
802.11a/b/g/n etc.). Otherwise, the wireless communication circuit
40 may adopt mobile communication that conforms to the standard
(specification) such as 3G (third generation) or 4G (fourth
generation). However, 4G is also called LTE (Long Term
Evolution).
In addition, in a case where communication according to the Wi-Fi
system or mobile communication is adopted, the training instrument
10 can communicate with a server 1002 described later directly or
via a network 1004 (see FIG. 18).
The buzzer 44 is a general-purpose small electronic buzzer. The
buzzer 44 is sounded under control of the processor 30.
The acceleration sensor 46 is an example of a motion (inertial)
sensor, and is a three-axis acceleration sensor of an electrostatic
capacitance system, for example. However, as the acceleration
sensor 46, acceleration sensors of other systems can be used. As
shown in FIG. 1(A), the acceleration sensor 46 is provided in a
manner capable of measuring an acceleration in a horizontal
direction (an X-axis direction), an acceleration in a vertical
direction (a Y-axis direction) and an acceleration in a depth
direction (a X-axis direction) when viewed the training instrument
10 from the front. Data of the measured (detected) accelerations
are given to the processor 30. Therefore, based on the acceleration
detected by the acceleration sensor 46, at least one of a tilt
(posture) and motion of the main body 12 can be detected.
The gyro sensor 48 is an example of a motion (inertial) sensor, and
is a three-axis gyro sensor of a piezo-electric vibration type, for
example. However, as the gyro sensor 48, gyro sensors of other
systems can be used. The gyro sensor 48 is provided in a manner
capable of measuring each of angular velocities around the X axis,
the Y axis and the Z axis for the training instrument 10. Data of
the measured (detected) angular velocities are given to the
processor 30. Therefore, based on the angular velocity detected by
the gyro sensor 48, at least one of a tilt (posture) and motion of
the main body 12 can be detected.
The temperature sensor 50 is a general-purpose semiconductor
temperature sensor, and measures a temperature of environment where
the training instrument 10 is used (strictly, an inside of the main
body 12). Data of the measured (detected) temperature is given to
the processor 30.
The vibrating motor 52 is a motor (eccentric motor) that is
attached with an eccentric weight, and driven by the control of the
processor 30. For example, the vibrating motor 52 is affixed to an
interior of the main body 12. Therefore, if the vibrating motor 52
is driven, a vibration is generated and the vibration is propagated
to the user who holds the main body 12 (training instrument
10).
The load sensor (distortion sensor) 16 is a load cell, and in this
embodiment, a strain gauge is affixed to an interior of the main
body 12, and a part of the main body 12 to which the strain gauge
is affixed functions as a strain body. Data of the measured
(detected) load is given to the processor 30.
The LED lamp 20 is a lighting device using a general-purpose
LED(s), and includes one or two or more LEDs emitting blue light
and one or two or more LEDs emitting red light, for example. In the
LED lamp 20, each LED is controlled by the processor 30 so as to be
turned on, turned off or blinked. Therefore, the LED lamp 20 is
turned on in blue or red color, or blinked in blue or red color,
for example.
The power button 22 is a push button, and inputs a signal to the
processor 30 for turning on/off the power supply according to a
depressing operation by the user. According to the signal for
turning on/off the power supply, the processor 30 controls the
power supply circuit 32, thereby to supply or stop the power supply
to each circuit component.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing electric structure of the
portable terminal 110 shown in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the
portable terminal 110 includes a processor 120, and this processor
120 is connected with a power supply circuit 122, a RAM 128, an HDD
130, a first wireless communication circuit 132, a second wireless
communication circuit 136, an operation button 140, a touch panel
control circuit 142, a display control circuit 146 and a D/A
converter 150. Moreover, the power supply circuit 122 is connected
with a secondary battery 124 and a connector 126. Furthermore, an
antenna 134 is connected to the first wireless communication
circuit 132, and an antenna 138 is connected to the second wireless
communication circuit 136. Moreover, a touch panel 144 is connected
to the touch panel control circuit 142. Furthermore, a display 148
is connected to the display control circuit 146. A speaker 152 is
connected to the D/A converter 150.
The processor 30 manages overall control of the portable terminal
110. An RTC 120a is incorporated in the processor 30, and the RTC
120a measures (time counts) date and time (year, month, day, time).
The power supply circuit 122 supplies a power supply (voltage) from
a secondary battery 124 to respective circuit components under
instructions of the processor 120. The power supply circuit 122
includes a charge control circuit, and a charging voltage obtained
by stepping down and rectifying the commercial power source is
supplied to the charging control circuit via the charging cable and
a connector 126, whereby the secondary battery 124 can be charged
by the charging control circuit.
The RAM 128 is used as a buffer memory and a working memory of the
processor 120. The HDD 130 is a main storage of the portable
terminal 110, which stores a control program(s) of this portable
terminal 110, and stores an application program(s) installed in the
portable terminal 110, and stores data such as data necessary to
execute respective programs, etc. However, instead of the HDD 130,
other nonvolatile memory such as a flash memory may be used.
The first wireless communication circuit 132 has a short-distance
wireless communication function and wirelessly communicates with a
further device via the antenna 134 under the control of the
processor 120. In this embodiment, the further device is the
training instruments 10. Moreover, in this embodiment, the first
wireless communication circuit 132 operates according to Bluetooth
(registered trademark) standard like the wireless communication
circuit 40 of the training instrument 10. However, according to the
communication standard of the wireless communication circuit 40, a
communication circuit that performs a short-distance wireless
communication of a Wi-Fi system as the first wireless communication
circuit 132.
However, when the wireless communication circuit 40 of the training
instrument 10 performs mobile communication according to the
standard (specification) like 3G or 4G (LTE), the mobile
communication according to the standard (specification) like 3G or
4G (LTE) is adopted also for this first wireless communication
circuit 132.
Under the control of the processor 120, the second wireless
communication circuit 136 can perform a short-distance wireless
communication of a Wi-Fi system so as to connect to a wireless LAN
through the antenna 138, whereby a wireless communication can be
performed with a further device. In this embodiment, the further
device is a server 1002 (see FIG. 18).
The operation button 140 includes various kinds of manual operation
buttons each of which is constituted by a push button. For example,
the operation button 140 includes a power button, a home button, a
volume adjustment button, etc. It should be noted that the home
button means a button for displaying a home screen or a main menu
screen, and a function to return to a previous position is also
assigned.
The touch panel control circuit 142 supplies a necessary voltage
etc. to the touch panel 144, and detects a touch operation within a
touch effective range of the touch panel 144, and outputs
coordinate data indicative of a position of the touch operation to
the processor 120. The touch panel 144 is provided associated with
a display 148 described later. For example, the touch panel 144 is
provided on a displaying surface of the display 148. Therefore,
based on the coordinate data indicative of the position of touch
operation, the processor 120 detects a position on the display 148,
and determines images (GUI etc.) designated on the display 148.
In addition, the touch operation includes a touch, a release, a
slide, a flick, etc. Moreover, the touch panel 144 is a
general-purpose touch panel, and a touch panel of arbitrary
systems, such as an electrostatic capacitance system, an
electromagnetic induction system, a resistance film system, an
infrared system, etc. can be used. In addition, the touch operation
may be performed by not only a finger of the user but a stylus pen
etc.
The display control circuit 146 includes a GPU, a VRAM, etc., and
under instructions of the processor 120, the GPU produces display
image data in the VRAM using image data such as polygon data,
texture data, etc., and outputs the same to the display 148. The
D/A converter 150 converts data for a voice or sound (music)
(hereinafter, referred to as "sound data") applied from the
processor 120 into an analog signal (sound signal) so as to output
to the speaker 152.
In addition, the portable terminal 110 is a multifunctional
information terminal, and various information processing terminals
such as a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a notebook PC, a wearable
terminal, etc. can be used as the portable terminal 110. However,
when the portable terminal 110 is a smartphone, in the block
diagram showing in FIG. 4, a circuit component for a telephone
function is further provided.
In the training system 100 having such structure, an application
program (hereinafter, called "training program") for performing
training using the training instrument 10 is installed in the
portable terminal 110. This training program is downloaded
(acquired) by the portable terminal 110 from a server (1002 etc.)
that provides various contents, for example. However, the training
program may be installed in the portable terminal 110 from a medium
such as a DVD, a USB memory, etc.
If the training program is started when a user operates the
portable terminal 110, the portable terminal 110 performs
connection processing with the training instrument 10. However,
pairing is performed only when the connection processing is
performed for the first time. For example, in the pairing, devices
(in this example, the training instrument 10) existing within a
range that a radio wave reaches is searched, and a user selects a
device he/she wants to connect out of the searched devices and
inputs the same identification number (authentication number) in
both of the training instrument 10 and the portable terminal 110,
whereby mutual authentication can be performed. However, in this
embodiment, an identification number is set in advance, and when
performing the pairing in the training instrument 10, the
identification number is automatically input. Once the pairing is
performed, the training instrument 10 and the portable terminal 110
will be automatically connected to each other after next time.
In addition, although illustration is omitted, at the time of first
starting of the training program, prior to the above-described
connection processing is started, a screen to which information of
the user is to be registered is displayed, and information (user
information) such as a user name, sexuality, an age and an address
(mail address), etc. is registered in the screen concerned.
If performing the connection processing of the training instrument
10 and the portable terminal 110, a menu screen (initial screen)
200 as shown in FIG. 5(A), for example is displayed on the display
148. In addition, as described above, the touch panel 144 is
provided on the displaying surface of the display 148. The same is
applied in the following. However, if the connection processing is
performed, after the user is notified of a connection result
(success or failure), the menu screen 200 is displayed. If
connection fails, it is possible to manually connect later.
As shown in FIG. 5(A), an icon 202, an icon 204, an icon 206 and
icon 208 are displayed on the menu screen 200. Moreover, in the
menu screen 200, an icon 210 and an icon 212 are displayed below
the icon 208.
Each of the icons 202-208 is an icon for selecting a purpose of
training set in advance. Although a first purpose, a second
purpose, a third purpose and a fourth purpose are described in an
example of the menu screen 200 shown in FIG. 5(A), a purpose of
training may include, for example, a purpose of making a slender
and tough body, a purpose of maintaining health, a purpose of
preventing occurrence of a disorder in an exerciser, a purpose of
preventing progress of disorder caused in an exerciser and a
purpose of making a body that looks younger than age. When any one
of the icons 202-208 is touched (selected), processing for
performing training according to a purpose corresponding to a
touched icon (202, 204, 206 and 208) is started as described
later.
Moreover, the icon 210 is an icon for performing the connection
processing manually. As described above, if the icon 210 is touched
when the portable terminal 110 fails to connect with the training
instrument 10, the connection processing is executed again.
The icon 212 is an icon for setting (registering or change)
information (muscle power information) about a muscle power of a
part of the user. If this icon 212 is touched, a setting screen 250
as shown in FIG. 5(B) is displayed on the display 148. A display
area 252, a display area 254, a display area 256 and a display area
258 are provided in the setting screen 250 aligned vertically.
Moreover, an icon 260 is displayed on the setting screen 250 below
the display area 258.
The display area 252 is an area for displaying (setting) a measured
maximum load of a thigh muscle. The display area 254 is an area for
displaying (setting) a measured maximum load of a latissimus dorsi
muscle. The display area 256 is an area for displaying (setting) a
measured maximum load of a triceps brachialis muscle. The display
area 258 is an area for displaying (setting) a measured maximum
load of a rectus abdominis muscle.
The user touches the display area (252, 254, 256 and 258)
corresponding to a part (muscle) that he/she wants to set, and
then, measures a maximum load of the part using the training
instrument 10. In addition, data of a measurement value is
transmitted to the portable terminal 110 from the training
instrument 10. If completing the setting by the user, the setting
screen 250 is non-displayed according to an operation by the user,
and displaying is returned to the menu screen 200 shown in FIG.
5(A).
The icon 260 is an icon for displaying a video that explains a
measurement method of measuring a maximum load of each part. For
example, when the icon 260 is touched after the display area (252,
254, 256 and 258) corresponding to a part (muscle) to be set is
touched, a video of the measurement method that measures the
maximum load of the part to be set is displayed on the display
148.
When the icon 260 is touched, not only the measurement method but
also a part (muscle) to be set may be displayed by
illustration.
Moreover, there is no necessity that a maximum load of all the
parts is set, and as for a part(s) not set, it is indicated that a
maximum load thereof is not set by displaying a star mark
(asterisk), for example.
Furthermore, it is not necessary to set a maximum load of each part
at each time the training program is started.
Furthermore, since the maximum load of each part varies when
continuing or interrupting the training, the training program
prompts resetting of the maximum load as necessary.
Returning to FIG. 5(A), if training for the first purpose is
selected by touching the icon 202, for example, as shown in FIG.
6(A), a selection screen 300 capable of selecting contents of
training for performing training with the first purpose is
displayed on the display 148.
As shown in FIG. 6(A), an icon 302, an icon 304 and an icon 306 are
displayed on the selection screen 300. Moreover, an icon 308 is
displayed on a lower part of the selection screen 300. The icons
302-306 are icons for selecting training. Specifically, the icon
302 is an icon for selecting isometric 1. The icon 304 is an icon
for selecting slow training 1. The icon 306 is an icon for
selecting a squat beginner class.
In addition, numerals etc. added after a training name represent
differences in levels and the contents (menu) of training.
Moreover, as for an item that the training has been already ended,
a mark indicating it is displayed in a manner superposed on a
corresponding icon (here, icons 302, 304 or 306), or the
corresponding icon is displayed in a gray out manner. For example,
when the same training is performed a predetermined number of times
or a predetermined condition is satisfied by performing training,
it is determined that the training is ended.
Moreover, the icon 308 is an icon for displaying a training
history. For example, when the icon 308 is touched, the contents of
the previous training or the past several training, the load and
posture when performing the training, and accuracy of the posture
when performing the training are displayed along with the year,
month, day and time (date and time) when the training was
performed. This is only an example, it should not be limited, and
how to display a history is various, such as in graphs and tables.
Since the training history (result) is thus presented as an index,
it is thought that the user can know the outcome of the training,
thereby to enhance motivation for continuously performing training.
However, information that accumulates a result of training for
every training is a training history.
In the selection screen 300 shown in FIG. 6(A), if the isometric 1
is selected by touching the icon 302, processing about training of
this isometric 1 is started. As shown in FIG. 6(B), a training
screen 350 for performing training of the isometric 1 is displayed
on the display 148. Moreover, instructions about the training are
output from the speaker 152 by voice if needed.
Then, that user can perform training while seeing the training
screen 350 or hearing the voice that is output from the speaker
152. Therefore, even a beginner user who does not know training can
perform training easily.
Moreover, during the training, the user uses the training
instrument 10. The portable terminal 110 displays a current load
value measured by the training instrument 10 on the display 148,
and displays a posture of the user calculated based on at least one
of the acceleration and the angular velocity both measured by the
training instrument 10 on the display 148.
That is, the user can know whether an instructed load (load value)
is applied to the training instrument 10, and can know whether a
posture of him/her during the training is correct.
Moreover, a difference between the measured current load value and
the instructed load value (target load value) is detected, and the
accuracy of the load is calculated. Moreover, a difference between
the calculated posture of the user and the correct posture of
training is detected, and the accuracy of the posture is
calculated. According to such the accuracy, advice on the training
is presented to the user. Therefore, the user can adjust the load
to be applied to the training instrument 10, and correct his/her
posture in the training.
In addition, an acceleration and an angular velocity in a state
where the user correctly holds the training instrument 10 and
stands up with a posture that becomes a base (basic posture) are
stored as a reference acceleration and a reference angular
velocity, and by comparing them with a current acceleration and a
current angular velocity, the current posture can be detected
(calculated). However, in this embodiment, the posture means a tilt
with respect to the horizontal plane or the vertical plane about a
part of the user to be paid attention.
Returning to FIG. 6(B), display areas 352, 354 and 356 are provided
in the training screen 350. Moreover, the display area 360 is
provided below the display area 356. The display area 352 is an
area for displaying the current load. Moreover, the display area
354 is an area for displaying the accuracy of the current posture.
For example, the accuracy of the posture is an index that indicates
whether an angle of the part the user pays attention becomes a
correct angle. However, the angle of the part the user pays
attention about the correct posture is set in the training program,
and the accuracy is calculated in comparison with this. The same is
applied in the following. Furthermore, the display area 360 is an
area for displaying a way (method) of training (training of
isometric, here) with an animation. In this embodiment, a way of
training means how to have the training instrument 10 and the
posture (angle of a part) or motion of the user at the time of
training. The animation displayed in the display area 360 shows
that the training instrument 10 is held by both hands in front of a
chest, that a force is applied so that both hands are brought close
to each other so as not to move the training instrument 10, and
that a force is applied so that both hands are moved away from each
other, for example. However, as described later, the display area
360 is used also when displaying using an avatar of the user the
posture and motion of the user at the time of training. Therefore,
for example, the user can know an appearance or situation of own
training through the avatar. However, an avatar of the user may be
used even when displaying the above-described training method with
an animation. These are the same about other training screens 400,
450 and 500 described later.
Moreover, when starting processing of training, contents of
instructions about the training concerned are output with a voice,
as described above. For example, in the training of the isometric
1, a voice having contents such as "hold .DELTA..DELTA. sec. with
load of .largecircle. .largecircle. % of maximum load" is output
from the speaker 152. However, about the contents of the
instructions for the training may be displayed on the display 148
in a text, instead of a voice or together with a voice. The same
applied in the following.
However, numerals correspond to .largecircle. and .DELTA. are
values by taking a past training result into consideration, and
automatically determined based on information of them by the
training program so that excessive training can be prevented and
the training can be performed safely. In the following, the same is
applied to a case where the contents of instructions for further
training are output with a voice.
Moreover, FIG. 7(A) shows an example of a training screen 400 about
the slow training 1, and FIG. 7 (B) shows an example of a training
screen 450 about the squat beginner class. Furthermore, FIG. 8
shows an example of a training screen 500 for a squat upper
class.
If the slow training 1 is selected by touching the icon 304 in the
selection screen 300 of FIG. 6(A), the training screen 400 shown in
FIG. 7(A) is displayed on the display 148. A display area 402, a
display area 404 and a display area 406 are provided in the
training screen 400. Moreover, a display area 410 is provided below
the display area 406. The display area 402 is an area for
displaying the current load. Moreover, the display area 404 is an
area for displaying the accuracy of the current posture. Then, the
display area 406 is an area for displaying the number of
reciprocation times of the current motion. For example, it is
possible to know the number of reciprocation times from a change in
the acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor 46 provided in
the training instrument 10 or a change in the angular velocity
detected by the gyro sensor 48. In the slow training, since a kind
of motion is reciprocated, when the motion is reversed, positive
and negative signs before and after the motion are reversed in the
detected acceleration in a certain axial direction and the detected
angular velocity around an axis. Furthermore, the display area 410
is an area for displaying how to perform the slow training with an
animation. The animation displayed in the display area 410 shows
that the training instrument 10 is held by both hands in front of a
chest, that a force is applied so that both hands are brought close
to each other, and that a force is applied so that both hands are
kept away from each other, and that the training instrument 10 is
reciprocately moved by being slowly moved left and right in
parallel with a floor (ground).
Moreover, in the slaw training 1, a voice having contents such as
"move left and right with interval of .DELTA. sec. with load of
.largecircle..largecircle. % of maximum load" is output from the
speaker 152.
If the squat beginner class is selected by touching the icon 306 in
the selection screen 300 of FIG. 6(A), the training screen 450
shown in FIG. 7(B) is displayed on the display 148. A display area
452, a display area 454 and a display area 456 are provided in the
training screen 450. Moreover, a display area 460 is provided below
the display area 456. The display area 452 is an area for
displaying a current thigh angle. However, the angle is the thigh
angle at the time of rendering a level (plane parallel to
horizontal surface) 0 (zero) degrees, and when the user is standing
upright, the angle becomes approximately 90 degrees, for example.
Moreover, the display area 454 is an area for displaying the
accuracy of the current posture. Then, the display area 456 is an
area for displaying the number of times of squat. Furthermore, the
display area 410 is an area for displaying how to perform a squat
with an animation. The animation displayed in the display area 410
shows, for example, that from a standing upright state, bend and
stretch so that the knee does not come out in front of the tiptoe,
sitting down until the knee reaches 90 degrees, then return to the
upright state.
In addition, although not shown in FIG. 7(B), in the squat beginner
class, an animation of an appearance of squatting in a state where
the training instrument 10 held by one hand is pressed against the
thigh is displayed. At this time, an image of the training
instrument 10 is displayed so that the vertical bars of the
U-letter shape of the main body 12 are rendered in parallel with
the thigh. Therefore, the number of squat times can be calculated
from the number of times that the sign of the angular velocity
around the X-axis of the gyro sensor 48 is reversed.
Moreover, in the squat beginner class, a voice having contents such
as "move up and down with interval of .DELTA. sec. while pressing
training instrument against thigh" is output from the speaker
152.
For example, if the squat upper class is selected when a further
purpose of training is selected, a training screen 500 shown in
FIG. 8 is displayed on the display 148. A display area 502, a
display area 504 and a display area 506 are provided in the
training screen 500. Moreover, a display area 510 is provided below
the display area 506. The display area 502 is an area for
displaying the current load. Moreover, the display area 504 is an
area for displaying the accuracy of the current posture. Then, the
display area 506 is an area for displaying the number of squat
times. Furthermore, the display area 510 is an area for displaying
how to perform the squat with an animation. Although it is
difficult to understand in the drawing, the animation displayed in
the display area 510 shows that the training instrument 10 is held
by both hands in front of a chest, that a force is applied so that
both hands are brought close to each other, and that a force is
applied so that both hands are kept away from each other, and that
the squat is performed while holding the training instrument 10 in
front of the chest.
In the squat upper class, on the assumption that the user can
perform basic motion of the squat, the accuracy of an angle of an
upper body (the accuracy of posture) in a state where a load of
.largecircle..largecircle. % of the maximum load is applied to the
training instrument 10 is calculated. Therefore, in the squat upper
class, the number of squat times can be calculated from a change of
the acceleration of the Y-axis direction of the acceleration sensor
46.
Moreover, in the squat upper class, a voice having contents such as
"move up and down with interval of .DELTA. sec. while holding
training instrument in front of chest with applying load of
.largecircle..largecircle. % of maximum load" is output from the
speaker 152.
The training screens (200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450 and 500) shown
in FIG. 6-FIG. 8 are exemplified about some training, and should
not be limited. A training screen is prepared for each training,
and a design and contents of the training screen can be changed as
appropriate.
Moreover, although loads and postures (angle of parts) detected
during training are displayed as numerical values in FIG. 6-FIG. 8,
the loads and postures may be displayed with images.
As an example, as described above, the current posture of the user
during training is displayed using an avatar. Taking the case of
the squat beginner class as an example, instead of an animation
instructing training on the training screen 450, the current
posture of the user is displayed in the display area 460 using an
avatar.
For example, when the user stands upright, an upright avatar is
displayed in the display area 460 as shown in FIG. 9(A), and it is
indicated by an angle image displayed beside the avatar that its
thigh forms an angle of 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal.
In addition, the angle image means an image that a fan shape image
having a size corresponding to the angle to be displayed is
superimposed on an image imitating a part of a protractor.
Moreover, when the user bends the knee and drops the waist, as
shown in FIG. 9(B), an avatar in a state where the waist is dropped
is displayed in the display area 460, and an angle image showing an
angle formed by its thigh with respect to the horizontal is
displayed beside the avatar.
In this squat beginner class, a thigh of a right leg is a part to
be paid attention, and measuring the angle of this part is
instructed, and the user performs the squat while pressing the
training instrument 10 against the thigh of the right leg.
Moreover, the detected posture (here, angle of thigh) is shown by a
posture of the avatar and the angle image beside it. At this time,
the avatar is displayed so that it can be visually recognized that
a part to be paid attention is a thigh. A spot pattern is applied
to the thigh of the right leg of the avatar in FIGS. 9(A) and
9(B).
Since the current posture of the user is thus presented using the
avatar and the angle image, the user can know at a glance whether
the posture is correct and at a glance how the posture should be
corrected. Therefore, it is possible to lead the user so that
effective training can be performed.
Moreover, based on the load and the accuracy of posture that are
detected (calculated) during training, advice is presented to the
user.
For example, when the detected load does not reach the instructed
load, according to a difference therebetween, a voice such as
"strongly" or "little more strongly" is output from the speaker
152. Inversely, when the detected load exceeds the instructed load,
according to a difference therebetween, a voice such as "weakly" or
"little more weakly" is output from the speaker 152. Moreover, when
the detected load is the same or approximately the same as the
instructed load, a voice such as "good" or "keep it" is output to
the speaker 152.
Therefore, even if the user does not see the screen of the portable
terminal 110, he/she can perform the training correctly by hearing
advice with voice.
Furthermore, if ending the training, contents (trained part etc.),
score or evaluation (index with ranking), etc. of this training are
displayed on the display 148. However, the score or evaluation is
calculated (determined) in accordance with the load, the accuracy
of the posture, stability, the number of times, etc. Moreover, when
some kind of reward is given (distributed) according to the
performance of training or the training score or evaluation,
information on the reward to be distributed is displayed on the
display 148 along with the score (evaluation) of the training. For
example, the reward may be an avatar item, a training program, a
virtual coin that can be used in other application programs, etc.
Detailed description of determination on whether a reward is to be
distributed, distribution processing, etc. will be described
later.
FIG. 10 shows an example of a memory map 600 of the RAM 36
incorporated in the training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 3. As
shown in FIG. 10, the RAM 36 includes a program storage area 602
and a data storage area 604. The program storage area 602 is stored
with a control program of the training instrument 10. This control
program is constituted by a main processing program 602a, a
communication program 602b, a detection program 602c, a correction
program 602d, a number-of-times count program 602e, a state
detection program 602f, a state notification program 602g, etc.
The main processing program 602a is a program for processing a main
routine that controls the training instrument 10. The communication
program 602b is a program for performing communications with other
apparatus (portable terminal 110 in this embodiment). The detection
program 602c is a program for detecting measurement values of the
load sensor 16, the acceleration sensor 46, the gyro sensor 48 and
the temperature sensor 50. The correction program 602d is a program
for correcting, using correction data 604f, the measurement value
of the load sensor 16 detected according to the detection program
602c. At this time, the measurement value of the temperature sensor
50 is taken into consideration.
The number-of-times count program 602e is a program for counting
the number of times (number of measurement times) that the load
equal to or larger than a predetermined value (load causing
deformation of the strain gauge) is detected by the training
instrument 10. However, when the load is changed to the load equal
to or larger than the predetermined value, the number of
measurement times is counted, if the load equal to or larger than
the predetermined value continues, the number of measurement times
is not counted.
The state detection program 602f is a program that detects an
operating state (start, stop, charge, communication, overload,
etc.), a battery residual quantity and an exhaustion state of the
training instrument 10. The start or stop of the training
instrument 10 is detected based on a signal of on/off of the power
button 22. Moreover, since the processor 30 performs transmission
and reception, the processor 30 can grasp whether the training
instrument 10 is under communication. The battery residual quantity
can be known by detecting a voltage value of the secondary battery
34, for example. The exhaustion state is detected based on the
number of measurement times detected according to the
number-of-times count program 602e. The overload is detected if the
measurement value of the load sensor 16 exceeds a predetermined
threshold value (150 kg, for example).
The state notification program 602g is a program for notifying, by
making operate at least one of the blinking of the LED lump 20, the
sounding of the buzzer 44 and the driving of the vibration motor 52
according to various kinds of states such as the operating state,
the battery residual quantity, the exhaustion state, the overload,
etc. detected according to the state detection program 602f, the
various kinds of states. For example, the LED 20 is controlled an
emitting color and the lighting or blinking thereof. Moreover, the
buzzer 44 is controlled the number of times of sounding and
temporal duration thereof. Furthermore, the vibration motor 52 is
controlled the number of driving times and temporal duration
thereof. These controls are suitably performed according to a state
to be notified. However, how to perform (notify) the control is
determined in advance for each state.
Moreover, load data 604a, acceleration data 604b, angular velocity
data 604c, temperature data 604d, transmission data 604e,
correction data 604f and number-of-times data 604g are stored in
the data storage area 604.
The load data 604a is data of a measurement value of the load
sensor 16 detected by the detection program 602c. That is, it is
data of a load (load value) applied to the main body 12. The
acceleration data 604b is data of a measurement value of the
acceleration sensor 46 detected by the detection program 602c. The
angular velocity data 604c is data of a measurement value of the
gyro sensor 48 detected by the detection program 602c. The
temperature data 604d is data of a measurement value of the
temperature sensor 50 detected by the detection program 602c.
The transmission data 604e is data to be transmitted to the
portable terminal 110. In this embodiment, the transmission data
604e is data including the load data 604a that is corrected
according to the correction program 602d, the acceleration data
604b and the angular velocity data 604c.
The correction data 604f is data for correcting the detected load
data 604a. As described above, the main body 12 is formed by
bending a pipe-shaped aluminum alloy, and the load sensor 16
(strain gauge) is affixed on an interior of the main body 12.
Therefore, respective training instruments 10 (main body 12) have
individual differences. Moreover, since a position where the load
sensor 16 is affixed and the gripping portion 12a are separated
from each other, what is actually detected is the moment of the
force applied to the gripping portions 12a. Therefore, the
correction data 604f includes data that corrects the load data 604a
in order to absorb the individual difference etc. Such a correction
value is determined based on a difference between the load measured
by the load sensor 16 and the predetermined load actually applied
to the main body 12. Moreover, an error occurs in the load detected
by the load sensor 16 depending on the ambient temperature.
Therefore, the correction data 604f includes data that corrects the
load data 604a in order to absorb the error due to the temperature.
However, the correction data 604f may be stored (saved) within the
processor 30.
The number-of-times data 604g is data on the number of measurement
times that is counted according to the number-of-times count
program 602e when the load equal to or larger than or equal to the
predetermined value is detected by the load sensor 16. Since the
number of measurement times is cumulatively counted, when the power
of the training instrument 10 is turned on, it is read from the
flash memory 38 and stored in the RAM 36, and when the power of the
training instrument 10 is turned off, stored in the flash memory
38. In addition, along with the number of measurement times, the
load detected for each time may also be stored.
Although illustration is omitted, in the data storage area 604,
data such as data of a lighting pattern of the LED lamp 20, data of
a sounding pattern of the buzzer 44, data of a driving pattern of
the vibrating motor 52, etc. are stored, and a timer(s)
(counter(s)) and a flag(s) necessary to execute the control program
are provided.
FIG. 11 shows an example of a memory map 700 of the RAM 128 of the
portable terminal 110 shown in FIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 11, the RAM
128 includes a program storage area 702 and a data storage area
704. The program storage area 702 is stored with an information
processing program of the portable terminal 110d. This information
processing program is constituted by a main processing program
702a, a communication program 702b, an image producing program
702c, an image display program 702d, a sound output program 702e, a
training program 702f, etc.
The main processing program 702a is a program for processing a main
routine that controls the portable terminal 110. The communication
program 702b is a program for performing communications with other
apparatus (training instrument 10 in this embodiment) using the
first wireless communication circuit 132, or with other apparatus
(PC, a server, etc.) via the wireless LAN using the second wireless
communication circuit 136.
The image producing program 702c is a program by which the GPU
produces, on the VRAM, in the display control circuit 146 under
instructions of the processor 120, display image data corresponding
to various kinds of screens (200, 250, 300, 350, 400, 450, 500,
etc.) to be displayed on the display 148 using image producing data
704a described later. The image display program 702d is a program
by which the GPU outputs, in the display control circuit 146 under
instructions of the processor 120, the display image data produced
according to the image producing program 702c to the display
148.
The sound output program 702e is a program for outputting sound
data 704d described later to the speaker 152 via the D/A converter
150. However, the sound data 704d is data for outputting a
plurality of kinds of messages with a voice, and is output
selectively.
The training program 702f is an application program for performing
training of this embodiment.
Although illustration is omitted, in the program storage area 702,
other application programs such as an application program about an
email, are stored. Moreover, when the portable terminal 110 is a
smartphone, a program for performing a telephone call function is
also stored.
Moreover, image producing data 704a, setting data 704b, target
value data 704c, sound data 704d, measurement data 704e and history
data 704f are stored in the data storage area 704.
The image producing data 704a includes data for producing the
display image data, such as polygon data, texture data, icon image
data, animation data, avatar data, data of an avatar item, etc.
The setting data 704b is numeral data about a maximum load for each
part that is set in the setting screen 250. However, NULL data is
described for a part that the maximum load is not set.
The target value data 704c is numeral data about a target value of
the maximum load for each part that is set by the training program
702f. For example, the target value is set, per purpose of
training, based on the sexuality and age of the user, and a
training history of the user and so on. However, the target value
may be set by the user.
The sound data 704d is data about synthetic sound for outputting a
plurality of messages instructing the contents of training and a
plurality of messages for advising on training with a voice.
The measurement data 704e is data that the transmission data 604e
transmitted from the training instrument 10 are stored according to
the time series. That is, the measurement data 704e is data that
the load data detected and corrected by the training instrument 10,
the acceleration data and the angular velocity data are accumulated
in time series.
The history data 704f is data on a training history, in which data
concerning the date and time (time) of the training, a content of
the training, a load (load value) and posture (also including
acceleration and angular velocity) detected during the training and
the accuracy of the posture when performing the training are
described in time series for each training. As described above, if
the icon 308 is touched in the selection screen 300, the training
history is displayed on the display 148 according to the history
data 704f. However, the date and time information included in the
history data 704f is acquired from the RTC 120a when the
transmission data 604e is received, and added to the transmission
data 604e (measurement data 704e).
Although illustration is omitted, in the data storage area 704,
other data required for execution of the information processing
program is stored and a timer(s) (counter(s)) and a flag(s) are
provided.
FIG. 12-FIG. 14 are flow charts of control processing of the
processor 30 of the training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 3. In
addition, it is pointed-out in advance that processing in
respective steps in the flow charts shown in FIG. 12-FIG. 14 are
mere examples, and if the same result is obtained, an order of the
respective steps may be changed. Moreover, in this embodiment, it
is assumed that the processor 30 executes the processing of each
step of the flowcharts shown in FIG. 12-FIG. 14; however, some
steps may be executed by a processor(s) other than the processor 30
or a dedicated circuit(s).
If the power button 22 is turned on by the user, the power supply
of the training instrument 10 is turned on and the control program
is executed, as shown in FIG. 12, the processor 30 starts the
control processing. The processor 30 searches the portable terminal
110 in a step S1. In a next step S3, it is determined whether
connection is established. If "NO" is determined in the step S3,
that is, if connection is not established, the process directly
returns to the step S1. However, as described above, when
connection fails, connection processing can be manually performed
on a side of the portable terminal 110 later, and therefore, if
"NO" is determined in the step S3, after waiting for a
predetermined time period, 10 seconds to 30 seconds, for example,
the process may be returned to the step S1. On the other hand, if
"YES" is determined in the step S3, that is, if connection is
established, the process proceeds to a step S7.
In the step S7, a temperature is detected. That is, the processor
30 acquires a measurement value of the temperature sensor 50 and
stores corresponding temperature data 604d into the data storage
area 604. In a step S9, a load is detected. That is, the processor
30 acquires a measurement value of the load sensor 16 and stores
corresponding load data 604a into the data storage area 604. Next,
it is determined, in a step S11 shown in FIG. 13, whether there is
an overload. Here, the processor 30 determines whether the load
detected in the step S9 exceeds a maximum value (150 kg, for
example) that a developer of the training instrument 10, etc.
assumes.
If "NO" is determined in the step S11, that is, if there is no
overload, the process directly proceeds to a step 15. On the other
hand, if "YES" is determined in the step S11, that is, if there is
an overload, in a step S13, in order to notify an overload, the
processor 30 makes the buzzer 44 sound, and the process proceeds to
the step S15. Although the buzzer 44 is sounded when notifying an
overload, instead of the buzzer 44 sounding, the LED lamp 20 may be
made to be lighted or blinked in a predetermined color, or the
vibrating motor 52 may be made to be driven. Otherwise, an overload
may be notified by any two or more of sounding of the buzzer 44,
lighting (blinking) of the LED lamp 20 and driving of the vibrating
motor 52. This is also true for a case where urging (informing)
replacement of the training instrument 10 as described later.
It is determined, in the step S15, whether a load is changed to a
load equal to or larger than a predetermined value. Here, the
processor 30 determines whether a load detected by the load sensor
16 is changed from a load of 0 (zero) or less than the
predetermined value to a load equal to or larger than the
predetermined value. However, the predetermined value is a
reference value used for judgment to urge the replacement of the
training instrument 10, as described later.
If "NO" is determined in the step S15, that is, if the load is less
than the predetermined value or the load equal to or larger than
the predetermined value continues, the process directly proceeds to
a step S23 shown in FIG. 14. On the other hand, if "YES" is
determined in the step S15, that is, if the load is changed to a
load equal to or larger than the predetermined value, the number of
measurement times of the load is incremented by 1 (one) in a step
S17, and it is determined, in a step S19, whether the number of
measurement times reaches the predetermined number of times (15000
times, for example). If "NO" is determined in the step S19, that
is, the number of measurement times does not reach the
predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to the step
S23. On the other hand, if "YES" in the step S19, that is, if the
number of measurement times reaches the predetermined number of
times, the buzzer 44 is made to be sounded in a step S21 in order
to urge (notify) the replacement of the training instrument 10, and
the process proceeds to the step S23.
Although detailed description is omitted, in the training
instrument 10 of this embodiment, when the number of times that the
load becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined value becomes
the predetermined number of times (15000 times, for example), it is
determined that a life of the training instrument 10 (load sensor
16) has come, and therefore, the replacement of the training
instrument 10 is urged. This is because the load cannot be
accurately measured due to metal fatigue of the main body 12 or
deterioration of the load sensor 16 (strain gauge) or both
factors.
An acceleration is detected in the step S23 shown in FIG. 14. That
is, the processor 30 acquires a measurement value of the
acceleration sensor 46 and stores corresponding acceleration data
604b into the data storage area 604. An angular velocity is
detected in a step S25. That is, the processor 30 acquires a
measurement value of the gyro sensor 48 and stores corresponding
angular velocity data 604c into the data storage area 604. Then, in
a step S27, transmission data 604e is produced by correcting the
load, acceleration and angular velocity. Here, the processor 30
corrects with using the correction value the detected load with
reference to the correction data 604f. Moreover, in the step S27,
the transmission data 604e including the corrected load data 604a,
acceleration data 604b and angular velocity data 604c is produced.
Then, the transmission data 604e is transmitted to the portable
terminal 110 in a step S29, and the process returns to the step S7
shown in FIG. 12.
In addition, although omitted in FIG. 12-FIG. 14, as described
above, the processor 30 controls lighting/putting-out of the LED
lamp 20 according to turning on/off of the power supply, and
changes a color that the LED lamp 20 is lighted according to
battery residual quantity. Moreover, the processor 30 makes the LED
lamp 20 blink by a predetermined color during communication.
FIG. 15-FIG. 17 are flow charts of muscle training processing of
the processor 120 of the portable terminal 110 shown in FIG. 4. In
addition, it is pointed-out in advance that processing in
respective steps in the flow charts shown in FIG. 15-FIG. 17 are
mere examples, and if the same result is obtained, an order of the
respective steps may be changed. Moreover, in this embodiment, it
is assumed that the processor 120 executes the processing of each
step of the flowcharts shown in FIG. 15-FIG. 17; however, some
steps may be executed by a processor(s) other than the processor
120 or a dedicated circuit(s).
If the user operates the portable terminal 110 to start the
training program 702f, the processor 120 starts the muscle training
processing, and search, in a step S1, the training instrument 10.
In a next step S53, it is determined whether connection with the
training instrument 10 is established.
If "NO" is determined in the step S53, that is, if connection with
the training instrument 10 is not be established, the process
returns to the step S51. On the other hand, if "YES" is determined
in the step S53, that is, if connection with the training
instrument 10 is established, communication processing is started
in a step S55. That is, although illustration is omitted, in
parallel to processing of a training program, the processor 120
performs communication processing and receives the transmission
data transmitted from the training instrument 10 so as to
additionally store as the measurement data 704e in the data storage
area 704 in a time series.
In a next step S57, the menu screen 200 as shown in FIG. 5(A) is
displayed on the display 148. Subsequently, it is determined, in a
step S59, whether a purpose of training is selected. Here, the
processor 120 determines whether any of the icons 202-208 is
touched. However, the processor 120 determines that the icon (202,
204, 206 and 208) displayed on a position that touch coordinate
data from the touch panel 144 indicates. In the following, this is
true for a case where other icons and display areas is touched.
If "YES" is determined in the step S59, that is, if the purpose of
training is selected, the process proceeds to a step S71 shown in
FIG. 16. On the other hand, if "NO" is determined in the step S59,
that is, if a purpose of training is not selected, it is
determined, in a step S61, whether it is a setup of muscle power
information. Here, the processor 120 determines whether in the icon
212 is touched.
If "NO" is determined in the step S61, that is, if it is not a
setup of muscle power information, the process returns to the step
S59. In processing of this training program, since it is premised
on connection with the training instrument 10 having been
established, illustration is omitted, but when touching the icon
210 in the menu screen 200, the connection processing with the
training instrument 10 is performed. For example, the icons 202-208
are displayed in an untouchable state prior to connection
processing with the training instrument 10 is established, and if
connection with the training instrument 10 is established, the
icons 202-208 are changed into a touchable state.
On the other hand, if "YES" is determined in the step S61, that is,
if it is a setup of muscle power information, after displaying the
setting screen 250 as shown in FIG. 5(B) on the display 148 in a
step S63 and performing setting processing in a step S65 according
to an operation of the user, the process returns to the step S57.
Although detailed description is omitted, as described above, a
maximum load of a part to be set is registered (set or changed) in
the step S65. The muscle power information that is set here is
stored (updated) as the setting data 704b in the data storage area
704.
If a purpose of training is selected in the menu screen 200 as
described above, as shown in FIG. 16, the selection screen 300 as
shown in FIG. 6(A) about the selected purpose on the display 148 in
the step S67. In a next step S69, it is determined whether there is
any selection of training. Here, the processor 120 determines
whether any of the icons 302-306 is touched in the selection screen
300.
If "NO" is determined in the step S69, that is, if there is no
selection of training, it is determined, in the step S71, whether a
history is to be displayed. Here, the processor 120 determines
whether the icon 308 is touched. If "NO" is determined in the step
S71, that is, if it is not display of history, the process directly
returns to the step S67. On the other hand, if "YES" is determined
in the step S71, that is, if it is the display of history, after
displaying a history corresponding to the history data 704f on the
display 148 in a step S73, the process returns to the step S67.
However, in fact, if there is an instruction from the user, the
display of history is ended, and the process returns to the step
S67.
Moreover, if "YES" is determined in the step S69, that is, if there
is selection of individual training, presentation of instruction
content about the selected individual training is started in a step
S75. Subsequently, the training screen (300, 350, 400, 450, 500,
etc.) as shown in FIG. 6-FIG. 8 about the selected individual
training on the display 148 in a step S77, and the process proceeds
to a step S79 shown in FIG. 17. Here, as described above, in the
training screen, an animation about how to perform the individual
training is displayed, and the instruction about the individual
training is output from the speaker 152 with a voice. Moreover, as
described above, the load and the number of times both included in
the instruction are automatically determined by the training
program 702f. Therefore, according to the presented instruction,
the user holds the training instrument 10 and performs a
predetermined motion or maintains a predetermined posture while
applying the load to the training instrument 10 being held.
However, depending on a kind of training, like the squat beginner
class, the user merely holds the training instrument 10 and may not
apply the load. In addition, although detailed description is
omitted, steps S75-S93 are performed about the individual training
that is selected in the selection screen 300. Therefore, in fact,
there is provided with processing (program) for each individual
training.
As shown in FIG. 17, in the step S79, a measurement value is
acquired. Here, the processor 120 acquires the transmission data
604e that is transmitted from the training instrument 10 and
received by the antenna 134 and the first wireless communication
circuit 132 so as to additionally stores as the measurement data
704e. In a next step S81, it is determined whether the measurement
value is accumulated for a predetermined time period (0.5 seconds,
for example). However, since the processor 120 performs processing
with using the measurement values for each predetermined time
period, this predetermined time period means a time period after
performing the processing using the measurement values at a
previous time.
If "NO" is determined in the step S81, that is, if the measurement
value is not accumulated for the predetermined time period, the
process returns to the step S79. On the other hand, if "YES" is
determined in the step S81, that is, if the measurement value is
accumulated for the predetermined time period, accuracy of load is
calculated in a step S83. In this embodiment, the processor 120
determines whether the load exceeds the presented load, and when
the load is less than the presented load, calculates a difference
therebetween.
In a subsequent step S85, a posture of the user is detected from at
least one of the acceleration and the angular velocity that are
indicated by the measurement data 704e. If saying strictly, the
processor 120 detects angles of a predetermined part of the user
with respect to a horizontal direction and a vertical direction
from the acceleration and the angular velocity.
Then, in a step S87, accuracy of the posture is calculated. Here,
the processor 120 calculates a degree of coincidence between the
posture of the user that is detected in the step S85 and a correct
posture that is set in advance in the training program 702f.
In a subsequent step S89, the user is presented with at least one
of the detected load and the detected posture. As described above,
here, the processor 120 performs processing that displays a numeral
value of the load that the user currently applies to the training
instrument 10 and the detected current posture (angle of the part
to be paid attention) of the user, performs processing that
displays the accuracy of the posture, and performs processing that
displays temporal duration and the number of times of motion.
Subsequently, advice according to the accuracy is presented in a
step S91. As described above, here, the processor 120 performs
processing that displays the current posture of the user with using
an avatar, and performs processing that outputs with a voice advice
to strengthen or weaken the load and advice to increase or decrease
a bending angle of a joint.
Then, it is determined, in a step S93, whether it is an end of
training Here, the processor 120 determines whether the user
performs the selected training to the last, or whether an
instruction to end the training is given by the user. If "NO" is
determined in the step S93, that is, if it is not the end of
training, the process returns to the step S79. On the other hand,
if "YES" is determined in the step S93, that is, if it is the end
of training, it is determined, in a step S95, whether it is an end
of the training program 702f. Here, it is determined whether the
end of the training program 702f is instructed by the user. If "NO"
is determined in the step S95, that is, if it is not the end of the
training program 702f, the process returns to the step S67 shown in
FIG. 16. That is, the display returns to the selection screen 300
of individual training according to the selected purpose. However,
the process may be returned to the step S57 (menu screen 200). On
the other hand, if "YES" is determined in the step S95, that is, if
it is the end of the training program 702f, information on the
training at this time is saved in a step S97, and the muscle
training processing is terminated. That is, in the step S97, the
processor 120 saves the date and time (time) of the training, the
content of training, the load and the posture (including
acceleration and angular velocity) that are detected from the
transmission data 604e (measurement data 704e) received from the
training instrument 10 during the muscle training processing, and
the data about the accuracy of the posture when performing the
training concerned in the HDD 130, as history data, or add these to
the history data having been saved in the HDD 130. However, the
information on the training may be saved in the HDD 130 at an
arbitrary timing according to an instruction of the user.
According to this embodiment, there are provided with the load
sensor, the acceleration sensor and the gyro sensor in the training
instrument capable of being held by both hands, and the load
applied to the training instrument is detected and the posture and
the motion of the training instrument are detected, and therefore,
in performing the training, there is no constraint on the posture
and the motion of the user due to a problem of a configuration of
the training instrument. Therefore, it is possible to make various
kinds of training performable. That is, it is possible to expand
the range of training.
Moreover, according to this embodiment, a general-purpose portable
terminal such as a smartphone can be used.
Furthermore, according to this embodiment, it is sufficient to
prepare a portable terminal such as a smartphone in addition to the
training instrument, and therefore, it is not necessary to provide
a dedicated system. Moreover, since the portable terminal has no
choice of an installation place under a situation capable of
performing a communication with a base station, a place of training
is not restricted.
In addition, although there are provided with the acceleration
sensor and the gyro sensor in order to detect at least one of the
tilt (posture) and motion of the main body of the training
instrument in this embodiment, even if providing only either, at
least one of the tilt (posture) and motion of the main body can be
detected.
Moreover, although the measurement value for the predetermined time
period is accumulated on a side of the portable terminal in this
embodiment, the measurement value for the predetermined time period
may be accumulated on a side of the training instrument, and be
transmitted to the portable terminal.
Furthermore, although the load is corrected on a side of the
training instrument in this embodiment, the load may be corrected
on a side of the portable terminal. In such a case, the correction
value is transmitted to the portable terminal from the training
instrument, and stored in the portable terminal. Moreover, the data
of the detected temperature is also transmitted to the portable
terminal, in this case.
Furthermore, since the current load and the accuracy of the posture
are presented to the user during the training, the current load,
the posture and the accuracy of the posture are calculated in the
portable terminal; however, when presenting to the user a change of
the load and a change of the accuracy of the posture after ending
of the training, the load, the posture and the accuracy of the
posture may be calculated by a further computer different from the
portable terminal. The further computer corresponds to a server
1002 (see FIG. 18) described later. In this case, at least the load
data, the acceleration data and the angular velocity data that are
detected during the training are transmitted from the portable
terminal to the further computer (server 1002).
Moreover, although the current load, the accuracy of the posture,
etc. are presented to the user during the training in this
embodiment by performing at least one of a screen display and a
voice output in the portable terminal 110, it does not need to be
limited to this. For example, by determining the load and the
accuracy of the posture by the processor 30 of the training
instrument, the load and that the posture is correct or incorrect
may be notified (presented) by means of at least one of the
blinking of the LED lamp 20, the sounding of the buzzer 44 and the
driving of the vibration motor 52. Therefore, the training
instrument 10 may be configured to provide with any one of the LED
lamp 20, the buzzer 44 and the vibrating motor 52. However, the
load and the accuracy of the posture may be determined by the
processor 120 of the portable terminal 110, and a determining
result may be transmitted to a side of the training instrument
10.
Furthermore, the training instrument shown in this embodiment is a
mere example, and should not be limited. For example, it may be
provided with a speaker in the training instrument. Specifically, a
D/A converter is mounted on a control board incorporated in the
main body of the training instrument in a manner capable of
performing communication with the processor, and the speaker is
connected to this D/A converter. In this case, the buzzer may be
omitted. The speaker is operated to exert the same function as the
buzzer described in the above embodiment. Moreover, when providing
a speaker in the training instrument, a sound or voice (music) that
is output from the speaker provided in the portable terminal may be
output from the speaker provided in the training instrument instead
of the speaker provided in the portable terminal or along with the
speaker provided in the portable terminal. In such a case, sound
data corresponding to the sound or voice that is output from the
speaker is transmitted to the training instrument from the portable
terminal.
Furthermore, although the history data is stored in the portable
terminal in this embodiment, such information may be managed by a
further computer different from the portable terminal. For example,
a server that provides a predetermined service may manage the
history data. An example of a system using such a server will be
described.
A network system 1000 shown in FIG. 18 includes a server 1002. This
server 1002 is a general-purpose server, and comprises a CPU 1010
and a memory 1012. The memory 1012 includes an HDD, ROM and RAM.
Although illustration is omitted, the server 1002 is provided with
further circuit components such as a communication module, etc.
Through a network 1004 like the Internet, the server 1002 is
connected with two or more portable terminals 110 communicably.
Moreover, a database (measurement value DB) 1006 is directly
connected to the server 1002. Although the measurement value DB
1006 is provided outside the server 1002 in the example shown in
FIG. 18, it may be provided inside the server 1002. Moreover, the
server 1002 and the measurement value DB 1006 may be connected
communicably through the network 1004.
Moreover, the server 1002 manages the measurement value for each
user using the measurement value DB 1006. For example, as shown in
FIG. 19, information to be managed (management information)
includes a user ID, a user name, sexuality, generation (age), a
friend, a mail address, a training history, etc.
Although detailed description is omitted, the user accesses using
the portable terminal 110, for example a site that is operated by
the server 1002, thereby to register the user information, i.e.,
the user name, the sexuality, the age and the mail address.
Moreover, the user registers his/her friend user (a user name or
user ID) if needed. Then, after the user performs training,
according to an operation of the user, or automatically, the
portable terminal 110 transmits data (result data) about a result
of the training at this time to the server 1002. It should be noted
that the result data is data about the training result that
includes the date and time (time) of the training, a content of the
training, a load (load value) and posture (also including
acceleration and angular velocity) detected during the training and
the accuracy of the posture when performing the training. The
server 1002 receives the result data, and updates the training
history (history data) in the measurement value DB 1006
corresponding to the user (user ID).
The user ID is unique identification information for identifying a
user, and in order to manage the above-described information for
each user by the server 1002, for example, it is given to the user
or the portable terminal 110 that the user concerned uses.
The user name is a name or nickname etc. of the user. The sexuality
is distinction of a man or a woman. The friend is a user name or a
user ID of a further user who is registered by the user as a
friend. However, a person capable of being registered as a friend
is limited to a user who utilizes this site. Moreover, friends need
not be restricted to real-world friends in a strict sense, but may
be family members or company colleagues.
Although a mail address is basically a mail address that is set in
the portable terminal 110 that the user uses, may be a mail address
that is set in a further terminal that the user concerned uses.
Since the history of training is the content of the above-described
history data, duplicate description is omitted here.
For example, the server 1002 can provide a service in accordance
with the result of training (result data), which includes
distributing an additional application capable of performing
further training, distributing purchase benefit of other
applications, giving points (virtual coins) that can be used for
purchasing applications, or distributing an avatar, an avatar item,
etc. Hereinafter, the application, the purchase benefit, the
virtual coins and the avatar and avatar item that the server 1002
distributes are collectively called "contents". If doing this way,
it is thought that motivation for the user to perform the training
or the user to continuously perform the training can be
enhanced.
However, what is distributed or given to the user does not need to
be limited to digital contents. For example, goods (analog
contents) such as tools or instruments, books, DVDs, food, etc.
about training, diet or health may be distributed. In such a case,
an address, a telephone number, etc. of the user, for example are
also managed as the user information.
For example, the server 1002 determines, using reward information
(gift information) as shown in FIG. 20, whether a reward (digital
or analog contents) is to be distributed, and determines a reward
to distribute. Table data of reward information as shown in FIG. 20
is stored in the memory 1012, and the CPU 1010 performs, with
reference to this table data, reward determination processing (see
FIG. 21) described later.
As shown in FIG. 20, rewards are described in the reward
information corresponding to distribution conditions. The
distribution condition includes a kind of training, a level (menu)
of training, a score (evaluation) of training and the number of
continuing days. However, all of the level of training, the score
of training and the number of continuing days do not need to be
imposed as the distribution condition, and any one or two
combination may be sufficient. In FIG. 20, items that are not
imposed as distribution conditions are indicated by drawing cross
bars.
The above-described type (identification information) of training
is described in a column of the type of training. In a column of
the level (menu) of training, numeral values (1, 2 - - - ) of
levels and menu information (beginner class, middle class, upper
class, etc.) are described. A range (standard value) of the score
(evaluation) is described in a column of the score (evaluation) of
training. A standard value of days (duration) is described in a
column of the number of continuing days. In a column of the reward,
there are described kinds (identification information) of the
analog or digital contents to be distributed when satisfying the
corresponding condition of distribution to the user or the portable
terminal 110 that the user concerned owns.
For example, in a case where the training that the user performs
this time is isometric, the level thereof is 1 and the score is
less than 80 points, distributing a reward A is determined.
Moreover, for example, in a case where the training that the user
performs at this time is isometric and the number of continuing
days is one week, distributing a reward E is determined.
Descriptions are omitted, but the same applies to other cases.
When distributing a reward is determined, if a reward is digital
data, the server 1002 sets the data concerned in a downloadable
manner to the user (user ID) who gains the reward, and notifies to
the portable terminal 110 that the user concerned owns by email
that the user gains the reward and that the user can download the
reward, and so on. When a reward is goods, a manager of the server
1002 etc. arranges for sending the goods to the user who gains the
reward, and notifies to the portable terminal 110 that the user
concerned owns by an email that the user gains the reward and that
the reward is sent to the user, and so on.
In addition, the reward information (distribution condition) shown
in FIG. 20 is a mere example, and should not be limited. For
example, even when the distribution condition does not include the
number of continuing days, it may be determined whether a reward is
to be distributed based on not only the result of this training but
the result of the past training, i.e., the training history.
Moreover, in consideration of not only the distribution condition
but the user information, it may be determined whether a reward is
to be distributed, and a reward to be distributed. In such a case,
as the user information, not only the age and sexuality but also
presence or absence of exercise experience, nationality,
residential area, etc. may be taken into consideration. In
addition, the presence or absence of exercise experience, the
nationality, the residential area, etc. are included in the
management information.
Specifically, the CPU 1010 of the server 1002 performs reward
determination processing shown in FIG. 21. It should be noted that
the reward determination processing is performed for each portable
terminal 110 by which the result data is transmitted. Therefore, if
the server 1002 receives the result data from the portable terminal
110, as shown in FIG. 21, the CPU 1010 starts the reward
determination processing for the portable terminal 110
concerned.
First, in a step S201, the training history of training
corresponding to the user ID concerned is updated by the received
result data. In a next step S203, it is determined whether there is
any reward that satisfies a distribution condition through
reception of a result of training. Here, the CPU 1010 determines,
with reference to the reward information, whether there is any
reward that satisfies a distribution condition.
If "NO" is determined in the step S203, that is, if there is no
reward satisfying a distribution condition, the reward
determination processing is ended. On the other hand, if "YES" is
determined in the step S203, that is, if there is a reward
satisfying a distribution condition, reward distribution processing
is performed in a step S205. Here, the CPU 1010 sets so that the
portable terminal 110 (user) having transmitted the result data can
download digital data as a reward, or sends an email addressing a
terminal of a person in charge that notifies to the user of the
portable terminal 110 having transmitted the result data
arrangement of delivery of a reward goods.
Then, it is notified to the user in a step S207 that a reward is
distributed, and then, the reward determination processing is
ended. For example, in the step S207, the CPU 1010 sends an email
to the portable terminal 110 having transmitted the result data,
which notifies that the digital data of the reward becomes
downloadable, or that arrangement for delivering the reward goods
is performed.
Moreover, the server 1002 can also provide various services for a
user with using the training history.
For example, the server 1002 can provide various kinds of services,
such as presenting a training history in graph form or the like
(spreadsheet), presenting an absolute evaluation (change in the
maximum load for each part) based on the result of training,
introducing recommended training, introducing training books, diet
books, etc., and so on.
Moreover, the server 1002 can provide services, such as presenting
the average value of the calculated maximum load, the extracted
maximum value, the extracted minimum value, etc. for each category
of sexuality, age, etc., presenting a comparison result of the
training history compared with a further user that has a profile
similar to the user and/or a further user that the user registers
as a friend, and presenting a ranking. For example, a comparison
result about the accuracy of the posture or training progress is
presented. Moreover, the server 1002 can also provide such a
service that advises on the training progress of the user based on
at least one of the training history of the user and the comparison
result of the training history with those of the further user.
Furthermore, the server 1002 can also provide a service that
notifies to the user a further user who is performing training at
the same time as the user among other users having been registered
as a friend. By providing such a service, for example, it is
thought that competitive spirit of the user can be encouraged and
motivation to continue training can be enhanced.
Thus, information related to a further user or a training history
of the further user is presented to the user, such as presenting
the average value of the calculated maximum load value, the
extracted maximum value, the extracted minimum value, etc. for each
category, presenting a comparison result of the training history
with those of the further user, presenting a ranking.
In addition, although the comparison result of the training history
and the comparison result of training progress are presented to the
user, training histories and training progress of the user and the
further user may be presented without comparing. In such a case,
the user compares own training history (result) with the training
history (result) of the further user, or compares own training
progress with training progress of the further user. In such a
case, about the training history (result) and the training
progress, it is not necessary to simultaneously present those of
the user and those of the further user, and may be switchedly
presented according to an operation of the user. Moreover, even in
such a case, it is possible to present the training history and the
training progress for a further user with some relevance such as
having a profile similar to the user (further user associated with
the user).
Moreover, the user may be presented with own training history,
while for the further user, only the training result of the
previous training may be presented.
Thus, there are various methods of presenting various information,
such as the training history (result), the training progress, a
comparison result about these with the further user, and should not
be limited to the example described above.
Furthermore, the server 1002 can also provide a service that sends
a message prompting to perform the training to the user who is not
training more than a predetermined period (three days, for example)
or more based on the training history.
Moreover, the server 1002 may manage management information on a
group basis. A group in such a case is classified on company basis,
for example. Therefore, in a company, for example, an employer
distributes the training instrument 10 and the training program
702f to each employee. The server 1002 or its operator provides a
service that presents to the employer and the employees a training
situation for each employee. If doing this way, the employer can
know the training situation of the employee and a health condition
of the employee estimated from the training situation thereof.
Moreover, the server 1002 can compare the training progress and the
training histories of the employees, and advise about a meal to the
employees according to health condition, and propose and sell
suitable supplement for employees. Moreover, the server 1002
notifies to the employee a name of a further employee who is
training at the same time.
In addition, in order to provide such a service, the server 1002 or
the administrator or operator of the server 1002 notifies a message
or the like to the portable terminal 110 or the like of the user,
so that the above-described management information includes mail
addresses. Moreover, the above-described various information to be
presented are indicated or attached to an email, or indicated on a
predetermined page provided in the site, or distributed from the
site concerned.
Moreover, although load value data is transmitted to the portable
terminal 110 from the training instrument 10 and the result data
about the training concerned is transmitted to the server 1002
after the end of training in the above-described example, it does
not need to be limited to this. The load value data may be directly
or via the network 1004 transmitted from the training instrument 10
to the server 1002 during training. In this case, the server 1002
may calculate the posture of the user and the accuracy of the
posture during training, or may calculate a score (evaluation)
about training. Moreover, when calculating the posture and the
accuracy of the posture during training by the training instrument
10, the result data about training may be transmitted to the server
1002 from the training instrument 10.
Moreover, a shape of the training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 1 is
a mere example, and should not be limited. As shown in FIG.
22(A)-22(D) and FIG. 23(A)-23(D), if shapes of the socket portion
18a and the socket portion 18b are changed, shapes of end portions
of the main body 12 may be changed so as to receive the changed
socket portions 18a and 18b. However, in the training instrument 10
shown in FIG. 22(A)-22(D) and FIG. 23(A)-23(D), the power button 22
and the connector 24 are provided on a side of the socket portion
18b, and the control board 14 is provided on a side of the socket
portion 18b.
FIG. 22(A) is a front view showing a training instrument 10 of the
further example viewed from the front, FIG. 22(B) is a top view of
the training instrument 10 of the further example viewed from the
above, FIG. 22(C) is a side view of the training instrument 10 of
the further example viewed from a right side, and FIG. 22(D) is a
cross sectional view at a line IIXIID-IIXIID in FIG. 22(A). In
addition, in FIG. 22(D), the control board 14 is omitted.
As shown in FIGS. 22(A) and 22(B), in the training instrument 10 of
the further example, convex portions (elongated protrusion) 1800
protruding in directions opposite to each other are formed on the
socket portions 18a and 18b. As for the elongated protrusion 1800,
a protruding amount is made larger in a part thereof (lower end
part in FIG. 22(A)). That is, the elongated protrusion 1800
consists of a first portion 1802 having a larger protruding amount
and a second portion 1804 except it. Although illustration is
omitted, in the training instrument 10 of the further example,
notches 12c capable of each receiving the elongated protrusion 1800
are formed in both end portions of the main body 12.
In addition, in the training instrument 10 of the further example
shown in FIGS. 22(A)-22(C), the elongated protrusion 1800 is formed
so as to be entirely protruded from the main body 12, but may be
formed so that only the first portion 1802 is protruded from the
main body 12.
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 22(B), in the training instrument 10 of
the further example, the power button 22 and the connector 24 are
provided on a side of the socket portion 18b, and although
illustration is omitted, the control board 14 is provided inside
the socket portion 18b. This control board 14 and the load sensor
16 are electrically connected to each other. Moreover, as shown in
FIGS. 22(B) and 22(C), in the training instrument 10 of the further
example, the connector 24 is provided in a right-hand side of the
socket portion 18b.
For example, when the user uses the training instrument 10 of the
further example, the user hangs his/her index finger and/or thumb
on the second portion 1804 of the elongated protrusion 1800 and
grasps the training instrument 10 of the further example by the
both hands so as to sandwich the first portion 1802 with the index
finger and the middle finger. However, some users may grasp the
further training instrument 10 by the both hands so as to sandwich
the first portion 1802 with the middle finger and the third finger.
In any case, since the elongated protrusions 1800 (the first
portions 1802) are provided, the user can perform training while
holding the training instrument 10 of the further example in the
same way at every time. That is, the elongated protrusions 1800
(the first portions 1802) function as a positioning member when the
user holds the main body 12 (gripping portions 12a). Therefore, the
gripping positions do not change every time, whereby occurrence of
variations in the measurement of the load can be reduced. Moreover,
since the finger is only hung to a portion of the elongated
protrusion 1800, no more load than necessary is applied to the
socket portions 18a and 18b formed of a resin with weak
strength.
A training instrument 10 of a still further example for obtaining
such a purpose and effect is shown in FIG. 23(A)-23(D). FIG. 23(A)
is a front view of the training instrument 10 of the still further
example viewed from the front, FIG. 23(B) is a top view of the
training instrument 10 of the still further example viewed from the
above, FIG. 23(C) is a side view of the training instrument 10 of
the still further example viewed from a right side, and FIG. 23(D)
is a cross sectional view at a line IIXIIID-IIXIIID in FIG. 23(A).
In addition, in FIG. 23(D), the control board 14 is omitted.
As shown in FIGS. 23(A) and 23(B), in the training instrument 10 of
the still further example, convex portions 1810 protruded in
directions opposite to each other of the head portions that are not
inserted into the main body 12 are formed in the socket portions
18a and 18b. That is, as shown in FIG. 23(B), when the socket
portion 18a and the socket portion 18b are viewed from the above,
portions of a side corresponding to a vertex of the opposing
triangles are brought closer than the training device 10 shown in
FIGS. 1(A) and 1(B).
Moreover, as shown also in FIG. 23(D), in the training instrument
10 of the still further example, a notch 12d is formed in a part of
the gripping portion 12a. A partial gripping portion 1812 having
the same shape as the notch 12d is formed on the socket portion 18b
(the same on the socket portion 18a) so as to form a part of the
gripping portion 12a. As shown in FIG. 23(A), the convex portion
1810 and the partial gripping portion 1812 are coupled by a
connecting portion 1814 having a smooth slope surface. The slope
surface of this connecting portion 1814 is formed so that the
finger of the user grasping the gripping portion 12a fits
exactly.
Furthermore, as seen from FIGS. 23(A)-23(C), in the training
instrument 10 of the still further example, the connector 24 is
formed on an opposite side of the partial grip portion 1812 with
the main body 12 interposed therebetween so as to extend in an
attaching direction of the socket portion 18b. Therefore, there is
formed with a notch 12e in the main body 12 for providing the
connector 24 on a side opposite to the notch 12d. However, the
connector 24 may be provided in a position not covering the main
body 12 as similar to the training instrument 10 shown in FIG. 1
and the training instrument 10 of the further example shown in FIG.
22(A)-22(D).
Therefore, when using the training instrument 10 of the still
further example, the user hangs the index finger or/and the thumb
on the partial gripping portion 1812 and the connecting portion
1814, and holds the training instrument 10 of the still further
example by the both hands. That is, the connecting portion 1814
that connects the convex portion 1810 and the partial gripping
portion 1812 functions as a positioning member when the user holds
the main body 12 (gripping portions 12a).
Moreover, although the main body 12 is formed in a U-letter shape
in the above-described embodiments, it does not need to be limited
to this. Other shapes can be adopted as long as two gripping
portions are coupled to each other and the user can hold the
gripping portions by the right and left hands and apply a force so
as to bring the both hands closer to or away from each other.
For example, as shown in FIG. 24(A), as a yet further example of
the training instrument 10, the main body 12 may be formed in a
ring shape (an O-letter shape, doughnut shape). However, when the
main body 12 is formed in a ring shape, a pattern is displayed on
the gripping portions 12a in order to make the gripping portions
12a intelligible. However, the gripping portion may be provided
with a grip. It is because a load cannot be measured if the user
holds a position where the load sensor 16 is affixed. Moreover, in
the ring-shaped main body 12, a portion except the gripping
portions 12a is the coupling portion 12b.
In addition, a form of a ring may be a form of an ellipse or
track-shaped. Moreover, the main body 12 may be formed in a
C-letter shape by lacking a part of the ring shape.
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 24(B), it is also possible to form the
main body 12 in such a shape that the numeral 8 or the symbol
.theta. (theta) is oriented sideways. In such a case, the load
sensor 16 can be arranged in the middle of the two gripping
portions 12a. Therefore, a load that user applies can be measured
directly. Also in this case, a portion except the two gripping
portions 12a of the main body 12 is the coupling portion 12b.
In addition, although illustration is omitted, as other examples,
the main body 12 may be formed in an N-letter shape, or may be
formed in a shape that an S-letter is oriented sideways.
Moreover, although the control board 14, the power button 22 and
the connector 24 are omitted in FIGS. 24(A) and 24(B), the control
board 14 can be provided in an arbitrary position inside the main
body 12, and the connector 24 is provided near it. The power button
22 is provided in a portion different from the gripping portions
12a.
Moreover, although the training instrument 10 is used for training
by detecting the load, and detecting the posture based on the
acceleration or angular velocity is explained in the
above-described embodiments, the training instrument 10 can be also
applied to an input device for a game machine (computer). For
example, it is possible to make the above-described portable
terminal 110 function as a game machine.
In addition, in this case, the training instrument 10 and the game
machine are connected in a manner capable of performing a wireless
communication. However, the training instrument 10 and the game
machine may be connected by a cable.
In FIG. 25, an example of an input device 2000 that is provided
with a cross button 2002 and four push buttons 2004, 2006, 2008 and
2010 on the main body 12 of the training instrument 10 is shown. As
for the cross button 2002 and the four push buttons 2004-2010,
functions are assigned to respective buttons according to a game
played on the game machine, like a usual game controller. For
example, when the cross button 2002 is operated, a player object
(game character) is moved in a virtual game space. Moreover, when
the push buttons 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2010 are operated, arbitrary
actions are performed, such that the player object jumps, punches,
kicks, grasps (acquires) a non-player object, throws a non-player
object, uses a predetermined item, or the like.
However, the cross button 2002 and the four push buttons 2004-2010
do not need to be provided.
Moreover, with the input device 2000 as shown in FIG. 25, since a
load, an acceleration and an angular velocity can also be input
into the game machine, it is possible to perform the following game
processing. For example, a game parameter can be changed according
to a changing amount of the load or a magnitude of the load.
According to the changing amount of the load, a height that a
player object jumps is changed, or a speed that a punch and kick is
unleashed is changed. Moreover, according to a magnitude of the
load, an offensive strength and defense power of the player object
is changed.
Moreover, it is possible to adjust a force or power of the player
object by applying a load that is designated by the game to the
input device 2000. For example, in a basketball game, when causing
the player object to perform a free throw, it is possible to adjust
a force to throw a ball.
Moreover, by applying a constant or more load to the input device
2000 continuously, it is possible to hold the player object or the
non-player object held by the player object. For example, a screen
that displays a predetermined course provided in a virtual space is
horizontally scrolled automatically, and in this course, an iron
stick object is moved up and down according to a load value
measured by the input device 2000 so as not to be brought into
contact to a frame that forms the course concerned. For example,
when the load value is 0 (zero), the stick object is located in the
center (reference position) in the screen. Moreover, the stick
object is moved toward a screen upper part, as a force is applied
to a direction that the two gripping portions 12a of the input
device 2000 are brought close to each other, that is, as the load
value to the direction to make approach becomes larger. Inversely,
the stick object is moved toward a screen lower part, as a force is
applied to a direction that the two gripping portions 12a of the
input device 2000 are brought away from each other, that is, as the
load value to the direction to separate becomes larger. If the
stick object is brought into contact to the frame, it becomes a
game over, and if the stick object reaches the goal without
touching the frame, the game (course) is cleared.
Moreover, a music game can be also played by applying a load to the
input device 2000 in time with a timing instructed by the game.
Moreover, by adjusting duration that the load is applied to the
input device according to a length of a sound instructed by the
game, a score can be calculated by taking into account not only the
timing that the load is applied but the duration that the load is
applied.
Moreover, a total sum of loads applied to the input device during a
predetermined time period can be reflected in the game parameter.
For example, according to the total sum of the loads, an offensive
strength and defense power of the player object is changed, a level
of techniques unleashed by the player object is changed, a kind of
techniques unleashed by the player object, or a level of a defense
item that the player object uses is changed.
Moreover, it is possible to make the player object perform a
repetitive motion by applying a load to the input device 2000
repeatedly. For example, it is possible to cause the player object
to swim in underwater of a virtual space, if a load is applied with
a predetermined cycle, a speed that the player object swims is made
fast. Inversely, when a load is not applied periodically, a speed
that the player object swims can be made slow. Moreover, it is
possible to cause the player object to perform an iterative motion
such as cutting a tree object or a log object in a virtual space.
In such a case, it is possible to change a speed of cutting the
tree or log object between when a load is periodically applied and
when it is not.
Moreover, it is possible to perform game processing using both of
the load sensor and the motion sensor (inertial sensor) in such a
manner that the player object is caused to perform a first motion
with a load applied to the input device 2000 and a second motion
different from the first motion with at least one of the
acceleration and the angular velocity that are detected according
to a movement and tilt (posture) of the input device, or the like.
For example, in a shooting game, it is possible to move the player
object in a game field based on values of the acceleration and the
angular velocity by moving and tilting the input device, and it is
possible to cause the player object to shoot a gun by applying a
load to the input device, that is, based on a load value. Moreover,
for example, in a car racing game, a direction of a car object is
changed in a virtual racing field by using an input device like a
handle, and by applying a force to the input device, a moving speed
of the car object is temporarily changed or a gear is shifted.
Furthermore, although the load sensor 16 is arranged inside a lower
most portion of the main body 12 that is formed in a U-letter shape
(portion corresponding to a bottom side of the U-letter), that is,
a portion that the main body 12 is curved in the above-described
embodiments, as described above, the load sensor may be arranged in
other positions as long as it is in the coupling portion 12b except
the gripping portions 12a.
For example, as shown in FIG. 26, when viewing the training
instrument 10 from the front, the load sensor 16 is arranged inside
the coupling portion 12b near a position where the gripping
portions 12a and the coupling portion 12b are coupled. Moreover, as
shown also in FIG. 26, the load sensor 16 is arranged on a side of
the socket portion 18a in which the control board 14 is provided in
the coupling portion 12b.
Moreover, in the above-described embodiments, only describing a
case where the training is performed by using the training
instrument 10 as it is, but it does not need to be limited to this.
For example, variation of training can be increased by providing an
assistance member.
For example, as shown in FIG. 27(A), a tube member 3000 for tube
training can be attached to the training instrument 10. As shown in
FIG. 27(A), the tube member 3000 includes a rubber tube 3002, and
there is provided in an end portion of the rubber tube 3002 with a
fixture 3004 for fixing the tube member 3000 to the training
instrument 10. As shown in FIG. 27(B), when viewing the fixture
3004 shown in FIG. 27(A) from the above, roughly dividing, the
fixture 3004 consists of a ring-shaped main body 3006 and a lever
3008. If the lever 3008 is opened, a diameter of the main body 3006
is made large, and if the lever 3008 is closed, the diameter of the
main body 3006 is made small. Therefore, if the main body 3006 is
inserted into the main body 12 of the training instrument 10 while
opening the lever 3008 is opened, and if closing the lever 3008,
the tube member 3000 is fixed to the training instrument 10. Thus,
since the tube member 3000 is fixed to the training instrument 10
using the fixture 3004, the tube member 3000 is prevented from
being detached during training. However, since the socket portion
18b is attachable and detachable, in place with the socket portion
18b, a fixing member that is attached to (inserted into) the main
body 12 to fix the tube member 3000 may be provided. In addition,
the rubber tube 3002 is omitted in FIG. 27(B).
Moreover, as shown in FIG. 28(A) and FIG. 28(B), the main body 12
can also be attached with a further holding portion (handle) 4000
as an assistance member. By thus attaching the handle 4000 to the
main body 12, it is possible to apply a force by a single hand in a
direction that the two gripping portions 12a of the training
instrument 10 approach. That is, grip strength can be measured. The
handle 4000 shown in FIG. 28(A) is formed with a hole 4002 that
receives an end portion of the main body 12 on a side of the socket
portion 18b, and that end portion is inserted into this hole 4002.
Moreover, the handle 4000 shown in FIG. 28(B) is a formed with a
projection 4004 to be inserted into the main body 12 in the end
portion from which the socket portion 18b is detached, and the
projection 4004 is inserted into the main body 12 instead of the
socket portion 18b.
Although certain example systems, methods, storage media, devices
and apparatuses have been described herein, it is to be understood
that the appended claims are not to be limited to the systems,
methods, storage media, devices and apparatuses disclosed, but on
the contrary, are intended to cover various modifications and
equivalent arrangements included within the spirit and scope of the
appended claims.
* * * * *