U.S. patent application number 11/214612 was filed with the patent office on 2006-03-02 for system and method for automating and controlling a waiting list.
Invention is credited to Jonathan N. Harvey.
Application Number | 20060046898 11/214612 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 35944175 |
Filed Date | 2006-03-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060046898 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Harvey; Jonathan N. |
March 2, 2006 |
System and method for automating and controlling a waiting list
Abstract
A system and method is provided for an automated system for
managing health equipment. The system can include an exercise
machine having a control component. A user interface can be
configured to enable a user of the exercise machine to enter a
request on a waiting list to use the exercise machine when the
exercise machine is not occupied. A computing device can be
included that is in communication with the user interface and the
exercise machine. The computing device can be configured to manage
the control component of the exercise machine in order to enable or
disable the exercise machine in response to the waiting list.
Inventors: |
Harvey; Jonathan N.;
(Bluffdale, UT) |
Correspondence
Address: |
THORPE NORTH & WESTERN, LLP.
8180 SOUTH 700 EAST, SUITE 200
SANDY
UT
84070
US
|
Family ID: |
35944175 |
Appl. No.: |
11/214612 |
Filed: |
August 29, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60605285 |
Aug 27, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/8 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2225/72 20130101;
A63B 71/0697 20130101; A63B 2225/30 20130101; G16H 40/20 20180101;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 21/00 20130101; A63B 24/00 20130101;
A63B 2225/15 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/008 |
International
Class: |
A63B 71/00 20060101
A63B071/00 |
Claims
1. An automated system for managing health equipment, comprising:
an exercise machine having a control component; a user interface
configured to enable a user of the exercise machine to enter a
request on a waiting list to use the exercise machine when the
exercise machine is not occupied; a computing device in
communication with the user interface and the exercise machine, the
computing device being configured to manage the control component
of the exercise machine in order to enable or disable the exercise
machine in response to the waiting list.
2. An automated system as in claim 1, wherein the exercise machine
is a plurality of exercise machines that are configured to receive
electronic communication from the computer device.
3. An automated system as in claim 1, wherein the control component
is selected from the group consisting of an electrical switch, a
software instruction, an electronic key code and an electronic
instruction.
4. An automated system as in claim 1, wherein the computing device
is a centralized server.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND CLAIM OF PRIORITY
[0001] Priority of U.S. Provisional patent application Ser. No.
60/605,285 filed on Aug. 27, 2004 is claimed.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a system and method for automating
and controlling a waiting list for exercise machines.
BACKGROUND
[0003] In the recreation and fitness industry there is often more
demand for exercise machines than there is availability. The demand
for exercise machines is often addressed one of four ways (or a
combination thereof).
[0004] Optimally, fitness centers facilitate demand by adding more
exercise machines and facilities to accommodate them.
Unfortunately, many fitness centers cannot afford this option. Even
well funded gyms are not exempt from demand surges. For example,
during the winter months, the coupling of "New Year's Resolutions"
together with the reliance on exercising indoors often causes
demand for exercise machines to outweigh supply in even the
best-outfitted gyms. Smaller fitness centers are hit especially
hard, resulting in lost sales, overcrowding and general patron
displeasure.
[0005] Many fitness centers do not use exercise machine waiting
lists nor do they actively monitor or enforce violations of time
limits for exercise machines. In these facilities, exercise
machines are used on a first-come-first-serve basis. This often
results in informal queuing, congestion of waiting patrons,
arguments between the patrons, and overall bad customer
relations.
[0006] Some fitness centers address the demand for exercising
machines by employing an attendant to manage the machines. Adding
an additional employee is a costly alternative to a budget-minded
fitness center. Also, the tedious nature of managing a waiting list
and enforcing time limits on the exercise machines often results in
boredom and ineffectiveness. The attendant's lack of fairness and
variation in enforcement of time limits and the waiting list may
lead to customer complaints as well.
[0007] Some fitness centers use a sign-up sheet or dry erase board
as an exercise machine waiting list. Patrons often oversee and
enforce these exercise machine waiting lists and time limits.
Inherent problems exist with these waiting lists. List maintenance
is one such problem, as sometimes machines sit idle while patrons
wait for the next person on the list. If the next person on the
waiting list has left the area or failed to remove their name from
the list, the machine may sit idle for long periods of time.
Sometimes, a patron will attempt to notify the next person on the
waiting list by yelling their name across the room. In addition,
other patrons do not know about or do not heed the waiting list.
These patrons render these lists ineffective by using the first
available machine. These "cutting in line" incidents cause other
patrons to patrol or enforce the list, which often leads to patron
confrontations, bad customer relations and an overall negative
exercising experience. Some patrons do not honor the time limits on
exercise machines. Also, these waiting lists may not allow the
patron to choose their desired machine. Dry erase and chalk board
style waiting lists allow patrons to remove their names from the
top of the list, inadvertently allowing a newcomer to apply their
name to the vacant spot atop the waiting list, effectively "cutting
in line." These problems make this style of waiting list
particularly ineffective and can often lead to patron confrontation
and bad customer relations.
[0008] The prior art FIG. 1A lists more of the problems associated
with common exercise machine waiting lists in use today. Designator
A shows that the waiting list may become quite crowded depending on
how many types of exercising machines it lists. Sometimes fitness
centers use two or more lists that cause clutter and confusion.
Also, the font size on the list may vary and may cause crowding
around the board. B shows that a patron's handwriting may not be
legible. C shows that prior art did not filter out inappropriate
words and drawings. D demonstrates a patron that has correctly
removed their name from the list when their turn arises or they
wish to discontinue waiting. However, this leaves an empty spot at
the top of the list which a newly arriving patron may fill to
effectively "cut in line". E designates that patrons do not follow
rules of the waiting list. F shows that patrons can list their
names more than once for the same machine, or for different types
of machines (may be against the rules). G shows that patrons may
use different data formatting. H designates a patron that never
removed their name from the waiting list.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be
apparent from the detailed description which follows, taken in
conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which together
illustrate, by way of example, features of the invention; and,
wherein:
[0010] FIG. 1A is a drawing of a prior art exercise machine waiting
list on a dry erase board.
[0011] FIG. 1 is a layout of basic components in an example of the
invention.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of exercise node(s) in an example
of the invention.
[0013] FIG. 3 is a flow chart of operating procedure in an example
of the invention.
[0014] FIG. 4 is another flow chart of operating procedure in an
example of the invention.
[0015] FIG. 5 is an example of a stand alone (non-networked)
exercise machine programmed with a wait list.
[0016] FIG. 6 lists some components that may be configured to work
with existing standalone (non-networked) exercise equipment.
[0017] FIG. 7 is another embodiment of the invention in which the
computerized waiting list and components controls a single
machine.
[0018] FIG. 8 is another embodiment of the invention in which the
computerized waiting list and components control multiple exercise
machines from one "master" exercise machine.
[0019] Reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments
illustrated, and specific language will be used herein to describe
the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of
the scope of the invention is thereby intended.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENT(S)
[0020] The present invention solves the above problems by using a
computer-controlled waiting list for exercise machines. The waiting
list is programmed into a computer system. The waiting list is
programmed with waiting list rules and exercise machine time limits
that may be customized to the fitness center. The waiting list
controls the operation of the exercise machines. It may allow or
disallow usage of the machines based on the rules and time limits
coded in the waiting list software. The waiting list software may
control the electricity flow to the exercise machines. This control
allows the waiting list to ensure that the exercise machines are
used in accordance with its programmed rules. In another embodiment
of the invention, the waiting list may use and/or control some
other electronic or physical `key` (instead of electricity) to
control the operation of the exercise machines. This control or key
may be activated by a software command originating from the waiting
list program which the exercise machine requires for partial or
full operation.
[0021] When the user-selected workout time or the machine's
pre-determined time limit expires, the computer program may remove
the electricity or the `key` and terminate the exercise session on
the machine. Thus, the patron must request to continue using the
exercise equipment through the wait list program (or the wait list
program may allow them to continue exercising, if no one is
waiting).
[0022] The waiting list program allows patrons to sign on to wait
for their desired exercise machine, if it is currently in use. The
program lists currently available machines and/or time remaining in
the current workout session for each of the exercise machines. In
addition, after the patron signs onto the waiting list for an
exercise machine, they may workout in a different area, knowing
that when their turn arises, the computer will alert them with an
audible and/or visual message that their exercise machine is now
available. When combined with an external mixer device(s), the
current audio and/or video signals can be interrupted for the alert
and then resume the interrupted programming. Additionally, the
waiting list program may issue an alert to a waiting patron's cell
phone or pager, based on data supplied by the patron. The computer
can also remove patrons from the waiting list when they begin use
of the machine or if they do not respond to their alert(s) within
an allotted time. This frees the exercise machine for general use
or whoever is next on the machine waiting list. The present
invention also provides a way whereby the patron may remove their
name from the exercise machine waiting list.
[0023] The invention may provide sensors that monitor if the
current machine is in motion and/or if a patron is currently on the
machine. These sensors may provide feedback to the waiting list
program on the computer whereby the exercise machine waiting list
may be fully automated and managed. The present invention can
include a password protected management module, which compiles
exercise machine usage statistics into a file or database by the
computer program. These statistics may include tracking of trends
such as which exercise machine is most desired, or which machine is
most used during a certain period. This module may also allow the
facility manager to temporarily or permanently override the waiting
list program and allow the machines to operate fully without the
waiting list software.
[0024] Another password protected maintenance module may store
editable machine maintenance schedules and logs. This module may
also allow the technician or manager to specify that a machine is
out-of-order, removing or "graying out" the machine from the
waiting list program. Information from the waiting list may be
saved, edited, printed or transferred.
[0025] Each exercise machine may be controlled by its own computer
and waiting list. Alternately, one computer and waiting list
program may control multiple machines. In this case, the computer
and machines may be connected via a bi-directional wired or
wireless communication network. Parts or all of the computer and
system may be integrated into an exercise machine's electronics or
as an attachable module that does not void the exercise machine's
warranty, or as a system external to the exercise machine.
[0026] Each exercise machine may have a physical identifier (such
as a number) posted on it whereby a patron may correlate the
machine's identifier with the identifier in the waiting list
software. The waiting list enforces maximum time limits for the
machines, and other rules necessary to running the automated
waiting list. The waiting list software is designed to be fully
automated, but may be used as an aid to an attendant.
[0027] The present invention has a clear and concise graphical user
interface. This interface may have marked graphical buttons and
automated labels that show if a machine is available, or the time
remaining before it is available and if there is already a patron
or multiple patrons waiting for the desired machine. A color-coded
interface may be used (green is available, red is in use, blue is
program procedure/instructions etc.) to tell at a glance if the
machine is available. The user interface may also provide an easy
to use popup on-screen keyboard that loads a form for the patron to
insert their waiting name. In some embodiments, this may be
substituted for or used in addition to another form of waiting
identifier entry device such as a barcode scanner, magnetic strip
reader, camera, microphone, or a biometric device. The user
interface may have many forms for user controls or to relay
information to the user. In one example, a form with time increment
buttons pops up after the patron selects an exercise machine. This
form allows the patron to select the duration of their workout
session on the exercise machine causing the program to enable the
exercise machine (via electricity flow or command, etc.). The form
may display buttons in increments up to the maximum allowed
exercise session upon the machine. All user interaction forms may
be on timers, so if a patron does not respond within an adequate
amount of time, the program will remove the form and show the main
screen, essentially keeping the interface clutter-free. Each type
of exercise machine may have its own waiting list on different
forms, linked by labeled buttons on the main program form. This
allows multiple machines of many types to be displayed without
squeezing all the information onto one form or page. Maintenance
and management forms may be accessed, via password, using buttons
on the waiting list's main screen. All user input through the
on-screen keyboard may be filtered to prevent the posting of
inappropriate words into the waiting list. A waiting patron's
identification (ex. name) may also be filtered and may be unique to
prevent a patron from signing up for two machines at once (a popup
form would notify the patron of this rule at this point). The
on-screen keyboard may consist of alphanumeric keys that do not
allow a patron to access the operating system or other programs
outside of the waiting list program. Also, the waiting list program
may have no process whereby a patron may terminate the application
without an appropriate password and/or access to a physical
keyboard.
[0028] The present invention's waiting list software may allow
patrons to use the next available machine by putting them in a
general exercise machine waiting queue. Alternately, the waiting
list software may allow them to select and wait for their desired
exercise machine.
[0029] The present invention (software, interface buttons etc.) may
be implemented in hardware instead of software.
[0030] The present invention automates the fair usage of exercise
machines via a computer programmed waiting list. It also promotes
maximum usage of the exercise machines by making patrons abide by
machine time limits and rules (by controlling the electricity or
some other `key` to operating the machine), and alerting them of
machine availability. Finally, the invention is easier to use than
conventional waiting lists. The computer maintains the waiting list
in a clear, concise manner and automatically queues, alerts and
removes names.
[0031] In one example embodiment, an exercise machine's power cord
is plugged into an X10 electrical outlet. The outlet is wired into
the building's electrical wiring (communication network). The
controlling computer is coupled to an X10 wired/wireless
transceiver which is plugged into an outlet wired into the
building's electrical wiring. A patron who attempts to use the
exercise machine will find that the machine has no electricity and
will not work. The patron then approaches the computer and
instructs it, via a touch screen or some other input means, to
start the desired exercise machine. The patron then enters the time
duration of the workout using an on-screen keyboard on the touch
screen. The duration of the workout is limited by the maximum time
duration that the fitness center will allow for one session on the
exercise machine. The computer then communicates an X10
"electricity on" command through its X10 transceiver, over the
electrical wiring to the X10 electrical outlet for the desired
exercise machine. This command activates a switch in the outlet,
which allows electricity to flow through the outlet to the machine.
The exercise machine then powers on and is ready to use. The patron
then uses the machine.
[0032] The computer meanwhile has started a countdown timer based
on the patron's selected time duration. The time duration is
increased slightly to allow time for the patron to walk to the
exercise machine and prepare to use it. The patron then uses the
machine. When the countdown timer expires, the waiting list program
issues an "electricity off" command to the electrical outlet of the
corresponding machine through the building's wiring. This command
turns the outlet's switch off, causing electricity flow through the
machine's outlet to cease. The machine then powers off (terminates
the current exercise workout session).
[0033] If the patron would like to continue, they must get off the
exercise machine and again instruct the computer to start the
exercise machine they desire. In the event that the machine the
patron wants is in use or currently being waited for, the patron
may enter identification data such as their name into the computer
to wait for their desired machine. When the countdown timer for the
waited for machine expires, the computer program issues an
"electricity off" command to the waited for exercise machine, which
powers down the machine (forcing the current patron to terminate
their workout session).
[0034] Simultaneously, the computer issues an audible alert message
to a mixer device. The mixer device mutes existing music or audio
playing through the speakers and allows the alert message to
broadcast over the speaker system. The message states that the
waited for exercising machine is now available. The computer
specifies that it is reserving the exercise machine for the waiting
patron. When the waiting patron hears the alert, they walk to the
computer and instruct it to start the waited for exercise machine.
The computer simultaneously removes the patron's identification
data (such as their name) from the machine's waiting list. The
patron then enters the duration of the workout and the process
continues as stated above.
[0035] The waiting list program gives the waiting patron an
allotted time to respond to the audible alert and start a new
exercising session on the computer. If the waiting patron does not
respond before the allotted time expires, the waiting patron's name
is removed from the waiting list for that exercise machine, freeing
it for general use or for the next patron waiting in line for the
exercise machine (if applicable). The invention also determines if
the exercise machine is occupied and/or is in use.
[0036] An X10 motion sensor may determine that a patron has stopped
the exercise machine or has vacated the machine before the workout
duration countdown timer expires. The X10 sensor(s) will wirelessly
communicate (using radio frequency) to the computer's X10
transceiver. The waiting list polls the transceiver and receives
the information and then initiates an activity/occupancy countdown
timer on the computer. If the activity/occupancy countdown timer
expires without the X10 sensor(s) detecting that the patron resumed
their workout session, the computerized waiting list will then
terminate the session (via an X10 "electricity off" command). The
waiting list will then make the exercise machine available for
general use or to whoever is on the waiting list for the machine
(if applicable). If the patron again occupies/uses the machine
before the activity/occupancy countdown timer expires they may
finish their workout as per the time remaining on the workout
duration countdown timer.
[0037] In another embodiment, some or all of the computerized
waiting list and its controlling components (e.g., keying
equipment) may be added to the exercise machines. This may include
existing exercise machines, from one or multiple manufactures.
Ideally, these additions would be external to the existing exercise
machine, thereby not voiding the exercise machine's warranty.
Retrofitting existing exercise machines in this way may minimize
the investment for fitness centers.
[0038] In another embodiment of the invention some or all of the
computerized waiting list components may be integrated into the
exercise machine itself. For example, instead of switching off the
electricity externally to treadmill, the switch may be integrated
into the machine's existing electronics. Optimally, an operation
control switch (like a switch controlling electricity) would not be
used; instead a request from the controlling computer would act as
a `key` to enable the machine for patron use. Sensor(s) which
determine if the exercise machine is active (in motion) and/or if
someone is currently on the machine may be integrated into the
exercise machine. For example, an induction sensor may determine if
an exercise machine is active via its electricity draw. Also, a
contact sensor or switch may determine if someone is on the
machine. These sensor(s)/switches (or similar devices) may provide
feedback to the waiting list program on the computer. This feedback
allows the computer to terminate the workout and reissue the
machine if it is inactive or not occupied.
[0039] In another embodiment of the invention, the computerized
waiting list may control a single machine only. A patron can
approach and use the waiting list at the exercise machine. Thus,
communication to a networked computer may not be required.
[0040] FIG. 1 depicts a drawing of components of an example of the
invention. An exercise machine waiting list programmed into a
computer 105 is displayed on a touch screen with software on-screen
controls and keyboard (responds to touch) 104. Users interact with
the program via the touch screen 104, like selecting their desired
machine, or adding their name to their desired machine's waiting
list (the exercise machine identifiers on the waiting list program
correlate to the identifiers on the exercising machines 109). The
computer program communicates over a wired or wireless network 107
with the exercise machines it controls 108. These machines 108 may
also communicate information back to the computerized waiting list
105.
[0041] The exercise machines 108 may communicate machine status
information collected by sensor(s) 108 (e.g., if the machine is
occupied or if it is currently operating). These sensor(s) and
communication aid in the automation of the computerized exercise
machine waiting list 105. When a patron's exercise session expires
and another patron is on the waiting list for that particular
machine, the computer terminates the current exercise session.
[0042] Next the computer sends an audio alert to a mixer 102 and/or
a video alert to the video display 106. The video display may also
be connected to a video mixer which allows the display to be used
for other uses as well (e.g., viewing television broadcasts). The
alerts serve a message to the waiting patron that their desired
machine is available. The mixer 102, mutes the original audio (the
video may use a mixer as well, in a similar fashion) and broadcasts
the alert over the speaker system 103. After the alert is finished,
the original audio programming is again broadcast through the
speaker system 103. An alert may also be provided to a wireless
device 112 that is carried by the user such as a cell phone, PDA,
pager, or similar personal wireless device. Notification can also
take place using a visual method such as a video screen or LCD
display.
[0043] FIG. 2 depicts a system level block diagram of an example of
the invention. An exercise node 200 is comprised of an exercise
machine 201, inactivity and occupancy sensor(s) 211, and a
communication interface 202. The exercise machine 201 is connected
to the inactivity and occupancy sensor(s) 211 and the communication
interface 202. The communication interface 202 is connected to the
communication network 203 which in turn allows bidirectional
communication between an Exercise Node such as Exercise Node #1
200, with the Controller of Exercise Machines 207. In another
embodiment, the connections between the communication interface 202
and the controller of exercise machines are wireless connections
which may provide further geographic flexibility or increased rates
of data transmission.
[0044] The exercise machine 201 is any conventional exercise
machine configured to transmit exercise machine control and status
information to the communication interface 202 and receive
information relating to the control and status of the machine from
the communication interface 202. Some examples of the exercise
machines are treadmills, rowing machines, bicycles, elliptical
machines, rotating climbing walls, and stair machines.
[0045] Machine control and status information is any information,
data or file that relates to the status of an exercise node such as
200. The control and status information could be in audio, video,
data or combination of audio, video and data format. Some examples
of exercise machine control and status information are control
information from the controller of exercise machines 207 to an
exercise machine 201 to terminate the current exercising session.
Another example consists of an exercise machine's 201, inactivity
and occupancy sensor(s) 211 detecting that the status of the
exercise machine 201 is inactive and/or not occupied and
communicating this information to the controller of exercise
machines 207, via the exercise machine's 201 communication
interface and the bi-directional communication network 203.
[0046] FIG. 3 depicts a flowchart of operation of an example of the
invention. FIG. 3 begins in step 300. In step 301, the patron
determines if their desired exercise machine is in use or if it is
on hold for a waiting patron by viewing the waiting list on the
touch screen. If it is, then the patron can add their name to the
waiting list (via an on-screen keyboard) for the machine 302 or
choose another machine 303. If another machine is available 301,
then the patron selects it 304 using the computer's touch screen.
The patron then enters the length of their workout on the exercise
machine 305. The computer will enforce a maximum time limit on the
exercise machine, which may be set to the fitness center's rules.
The computer then starts a workout countdown timer based on the
patron's selected duration 306. This duration is increased by a
predetermined amount to allow for the patron to walk to the
exercise machine and other preparatory activities to use the
machine. The computer program issues a command that allows
electricity to flow to the machine or some other key that allows
the exercise machine to function 307. The exercise machine obeys
the command or key from the computer, enabling the exercise machine
to function for the patron 308. Additionally, the computer marks
the machine as in-use on the touch screen and shows the time
remaining in the workout (workout countdown timer) as well 308.
[0047] As the countdown timer decrements, it is updated on the
touch screen and/or external display to enable other patrons to
effectively determine when the machine will become available, and
to compare its wait time with other in-use machines. This allows
the patron to choose a machine based on its waiting time, or on
personal preference for a machine. The patron is now free to use
the machine 309.
[0048] If the patron stops the machine and/or exits the machine
before the workout countdown timer expires 310, then a sensor(s)
initiate a communication with the controlling computer instructing
it to start an inactivity countdown timer 311. This timer's
duration may be set to the fitness center's preference. If the
inactivity timer expires without further activity and/or
reoccupation of the exercise machine 312, then the computer checks
to see if another patron is waiting for this machine 315. If not,
the machine's operating `key` or electricity is terminated by the
computer and the machine is designated as available for use on the
computer's touch screen 325. The process now restarts 300.
[0049] If the patron reoccupies the machine and or resumes using
the machine (activity), the inactivity countdown timer 311 is reset
and the patron continues their workout. The workout continues until
the either the sensor(s) detect further inactivity and/or exiting
of the exercise machine (follow previous flow) or the workout
countdown timer reaches zero 313. In the latter case, the computer
checks to see if a patron is waiting for the machine 314. If a
patron is not waiting for the machine, the computer marks the
exercise machine as available on the computer but allows the
current occupant to continue usage of the machine until someone
requests the machine 321. Upon another patron's request for the
machine (see 304), or if the current occupant stops or exits the
machine (see 310) the current workout session is terminated by the
computer. The computer disables the machine by terminating the
electricity flow to the machine or commanding the machine to stop
responding to the patron and prohibits further exercising by the
current patron (removes the software `key`) 322.
[0050] The process restarts at 300 or at 304 if another patron has
requested the exercise machine. In the event a patron is waiting
for a particular machine (315, 323, or 324) and it becomes
available, an audio and/or visual message is issued from the
computer to alert the patron waiting for that particular machine,
that the exercise machine is available 316. The computer then
starts a patron response countdown timer for this machine that may
be set to the fitness center's specification 317. If the waiting
patron responds to the response timer before it expires 318, the
waiting patron may then select the machine on the computer (see
304) and the patron's name is removed from the exercise machine's
waiting list 320 (go to 304). If the patron fails to respond to the
patron response countdown timer before it expires 318, the patron's
name is removed from the machine's waiting list and the machine is
marked as available on the computer 319. The process then restarts
at 300.
[0051] FIG. 4 is another flow chart of operating procedure in an
example of the invention. This flow chart differs from FIG. 3 in
step 405. Step 405 enables the patron to start the exercise machine
from the machine itself (instead of starting it from the computer).
Thus, a patron may see that the machine is vacant and enter the
duration of the workout on the machine, and then this information
is transferred to the computer. Step 405 assumes that the machine
is vacant and not waiting for a patron to respond to an
availability alert 401. The exercise machine may display that the
machine is currently waiting for a patron on the waiting list.
[0052] FIG. 5 is an example of a standalone (non-networked)
exercise machine interface programmed with a wait list. Label 501
demonstrates how a switch or a sensor may be used to determine if
the exercise machine is in use. This may be an induction coil to
measure current flow or another process whereby the waiting list
may be aware if the exercise machine is in use and update itself
accordingly. Preferably, this sensor would be integrated into the
exercise machine's electronics.
[0053] Label 502 demonstrates a visual display that allows a patron
to view the time remaining in the current workout (waiting time)
and to sign-on to wait for the machine. It may be touch-sensitive
allowing the entering of alphanumeric characters to facilitate
signing into the waiting list. The display may also give a visual
alert when it is another patron's turn to use the machine. The
computer and waiting list may be integrated into this display or
may be elsewhere on the exercise machine.
[0054] Label 503 is the main console where a patron may enter the
duration of their workout. Label 504 shows that a speaker system
may be integrated into the exercise machine to announce audible
alerts. Label 505 shows that alternate input devices may be used
for entering and/or validating a waiting patron's identification,
for the exercise machine. For example a camera may take a photo of
the person waiting and add them to the waiting list. Label 506
illustrates a switch and/or sensor that may determine if a patron
is currently on the machine. This may be used in conjunction with
an activity sensor 501 to determine if the treadmill is or may be
marked available by the waiting list.
[0055] FIG. 6 lists some components that may be configured to work
with existing standalone (non-networked) exercise equipment. Label
601 is a visual display that allows a patron to view the time
remaining in the current workout (waiting time) and may allow the
patron sign-on to wait for the machine. It may be touch sensitive
allowing the entering of alphanumeric characters to facilitate
signing into the waiting list. The display may also give a visual
alert when it is another patron's turn to use the machine. A
computer and waiting list may be integrated into this display.
[0056] Label 602 is a sensor and/or switch to determine if the
machine is in use. It may include a switch to allow or disallow
electricity flow to the exercise machine. It may interface directly
with the computer. Label 603 is a switch and/or sensor to determine
if a patron is on a machine. It may interface directly with the
computer. Label 604 shows a speaker system for audible alerts that
may be integrated into another component (like the display) or an
external attachment. Label 605 illustrates an alternate input
device for entering or validating that a patron is waiting for the
machine. It may interface directly with the computer.
[0057] FIG. 7 is another embodiment of the invention in which the
computerized waiting list and components controls a single machine.
This embodiment of the invention and is either integrated into the
exercise machine's existing electronics or externally as an add-on
option. Exercise node 700 contains inactivity and occupancy
sensor(s) 701 which interface with the exercise machine 702. The
inactivity and occupancy sensor(s) may also directly interface the
controller of the exercise machine 703 (not shown on illustration)
instead of through the exercise machine 702. This interface is
bidirectional allowing for full communication between the sensors
and the computerized waiting list stored in memory 704. The memory
704 and the processor 705 store and execute the waiting list
program which automates the exercise node 700.
[0058] FIG. 8 is another embodiment of the invention in which the
computerized waiting list and components control multiple exercise
machines from one "master" exercise machine. This embodiment shows
that a master exercise node 800 may control multiple exercise nodes
808 from the controller of exercise machine 803 attached to one of
the exercise machines 802. A bidirectional communication network
807 links the master exercise node 800 with other exercise nodes
808 via a wired or wireless communication interface 806 and 810.
Inactivity and occupancy sensor(s) 801 and 809 may or may not
interface directly with the exercise machines 802 and 811. One
advantage to this embodiment is that a separate area devoted to a
controller of exercise machine 803 and supporting components is not
required. This may be useful in small or crowded exercise
rooms.
[0059] While the forgoing examples are illustrative of the
principles of the present invention in one or more particular
applications, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the
art that numerous modifications in form, usage and details of
implementation can be made without the exercise of inventive
faculty, and without departing from the principles and concepts of
the invention. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention
be limited, except as by the claims set forth below.
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