U.S. patent application number 13/422807 was filed with the patent office on 2012-09-20 for systems, methods, and devices for interactive exercise.
Invention is credited to Mark Watterson.
Application Number | 20120237911 13/422807 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46828754 |
Filed Date | 2012-09-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120237911 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Watterson; Mark |
September 20, 2012 |
Systems, Methods, and Devices for Interactive Exercise
Abstract
An interactive exercise system includes an exercise device
having one or more movable elements that a user may move during
exercise. The movable elements may have one or more selectively
adjustable operating parameters. Other interactive features may
also be includes to enable a user to interact with the exercise
system in multiple ways. The interactive features may include
simulations of real word locations, educational programming,
multitasking features, and a voice response system.
Inventors: |
Watterson; Mark; (Logan,
UT) |
Family ID: |
46828754 |
Appl. No.: |
13/422807 |
Filed: |
March 16, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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61453484 |
Mar 16, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
434/247 ;
482/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 24/0087 20130101;
G10L 15/26 20130101; A63B 2220/808 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
434/247 ;
482/4 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00 |
Claims
1. An interactive exercise device, comprising: a movable element
that is movable in the performance of an exercise, the movable
element having at least one selectively adjustable operating
parameter; and a voice response system operatively associated with
the movable element, the voice response system being receptive to
verbal commands from a user of the exercise device, wherein the
voice response system adjusts the at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter in response to verbal commands from
the user.
2. The interactive exercise device of claim 1, wherein the voice
response system comprises a controller.
3. The interactive exercise device of claim 1, wherein the voice
response system comprises voice recognition software.
4. The interactive exercise device of claim 1, wherein the voice
response system is disposed within a control panel of the exercise
device.
5. The interactive exercise device of claim 4, wherein the control
panel comprises a browser and a display.
6. The interactive exercise device of claim 5, wherein the voice
response system controls the operation of the browser in response
to verbal commands from the user.
7. The interactive exercise device of claim 1, wherein the voice
response system enables a user to dictate electronic messages.
8. The interactive exercise device of claim 1, wherein the voice
response system enables a user to send or receive electronic
messages.
9. A fitness educational exercise system, comprising: an exercise
device having a movable element that is movable in the performance
of an exercise, the movable element having at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter; and exercise programming that
provides a fitness educational experience to a user, the exercise
programming comprising: control signals that selectively adjust the
at least one selectively adjustable operating parameter of the
movable element to simulate terrain of a real world location;
display programming that presents to the user visual images of the
simulated real world location; and audio programming that presents
to the user educational information relating to the simulated real
world location.
10. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 9, wherein the
exercise programming presents questions to the user during the
fitness educational experience.
11. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 10, wherein
the fitness educational exercise system is receptive to verbal
responses from the user in answer to the presented questions.
12. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 10, wherein
the exercise device comprises a voice response system that is
receptive to verbal responses from the user in answer to the
presented questions.
13. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 9, wherein the
exercise programming is theme based.
14. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 13, wherein
the theme of the exercise programming is selected from educational,
patriotic, somber, comedic, tragic, religious, and serious.
14. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 14, wherein
educational themed exercise programming includes education
information relating to at least one of history, geography, botany,
animals, science, music, math, and combinations thereof.
15. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 9, wherein the
exercise programming is at least partially defined by the user.
16. The fitness educational exercise system of claim 9, wherein
exercise programming comprises a plurality of segments that are
selected by the exercise system based upon fitness goals provided
by the user.
17. An interactive exercise system, comprising: an exercise device
having a movable element that is movable in the performance of an
exercise, the movable element having at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter; and interactive exercise
programming that provides a plurality of interactive exercise
experiences to a user, the exercise programming comprising: control
signals that selectively adjust the at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter of the movable element to simulate
terrain of a real world location; display programming that presents
to the user visual images of the simulated real world location; and
audio programming that presents to the user i) educational
information, and ii) questions relating to the education
information; a voice response system operatively associated with
the interactive exercise programming, wherein the voice response
system receives and processes the user's verbal answers to the
presented questions, wherein the exercise system provides awards to
the user based on the user's performance in the interactive
exercise experience.
18. The interactive exercise system of claim 17, wherein the
interactive exercise experiences are altered based on the verbal
inputs from the user.
19. The interactive exercise system of claim 18, wherein the
interactive exercise experiences are altered by adjusting the at
least one selectively adjustable operating parameter of the movable
element.
20. The interactive exercise system of claim 17, wherein the awards
include digital incentives.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application No. 61/453,484, filed on Mar. 16,
2011, and entitled SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND DEVICES FOR INTERACTIVE
EXERCISE, which is incorporated herein by reference in its
entirety
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates generally to systems and methods for
exercise. More particularly, the invention relates to systems,
methods, and devices for interacting with or controlling an
exercise device.
BACKGROUND
[0003] One common challenge with exercise equipment is motivating
the user to use the exercise equipment on a consistent and ongoing
basis. This lack of motivation can be a result of the repetitive
nature of the exercises and exercise routines that a user can
perform on a specific exercise device and the lack of intellectual
stimulation available during use of the exercise equipment.
[0004] In order to combat this lack of stimulation, many exercise
devices are equipped with a display that depicts a track indicating
progress or a hill profile representing the difficultly level of
the exercise routine. Still other exercise systems, such as the
system described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2006/0122035 to
Felix, attempt to create a virtual reality environment. For
instance, the system described in Felix includes an exercise device
that displays various types of video programming on a display.
Additionally, the system also controls the exercise device to
simulate the displayed video programming. In addition, other
exercise devices include those in U.S. Pat. No. 6,287,239, U.S.
Pat. No. 6,997,852, U.S. Pat. No. 6,458,060, U.S. Pat. No.
7,060,006, U.S. Pat. No. 6,312,363, and U.S. Patent Publication No.
2007/0265138.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] In one aspect of the disclosure, an interactive exercise
device includes a movable element and a voice response system.
[0006] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the movable element is movable in the performance
of an exercise.
[0007] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the movable element has at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter.
[0008] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system is operatively associated
with the movable element.
[0009] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system is receptive to verbal
commands from a user of the exercise device.
[0010] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system adjusts the at least one
selectively adjustable operating parameter in response to verbal
commands from the user.
[0011] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system includes a
controller.
[0012] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system includes voice
recognition software.
[0013] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system is disposed within a
control panel of the exercise device.
[0014] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the control panel includes a browser and a
display.
[0015] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system controls the operation of
the browser in response to verbal commands from the user.
[0016] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system enables a user to dictate
electronic messages.
[0017] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system enables a user to send or
receive electronic messages.
[0018] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, a fitness educational exercise system includes an
exercise device and exercise programming.
[0019] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise device has a movable element that is
movable in the performance of an exercise.
[0020] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the movable element has at least one selectively
adjustable operating parameter.
[0021] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming provides a fitness
educational experience to a user.
[0022] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes control signals
that selectively adjust the at least one selectively adjustable
operating parameter of the movable element to simulate terrain of a
real world location.
[0023] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes display
programming that presents to the user visual images of the
simulated real world location.
[0024] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes audio programming
that presents to the user educational information relating to the
simulated real world location.
[0025] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming presents questions to the
user during the fitness educational experience.
[0026] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the fitness educational exercise system is
receptive to verbal responses from the user in answer to the
presented questions.
[0027] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise device comprises a voice response
system that is receptive to verbal responses from the user in
answer to the presented questions.
[0028] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming is theme based.
[0029] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the theme of the exercise programming is selected
from educational, patriotic, somber, comedic, tragic, religious,
and serious.
[0030] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the educational themed exercise programming
includes educational information relating to history, geography,
botany, animals, science, music, math, and combinations
thereof.
[0031] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming is at least partially
defined by the user.
[0032] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes a plurality of
segments that are selected by the exercise system based upon
fitness goals provided by the user.
[0033] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, an interactive exercise system includes an exercise
device, interactive exercise programming, and a voice response
system.
[0034] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise device has a movable element that is
movable in the performance of an exercise and that has at least one
selectively adjustable operating parameter.
[0035] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the interactive exercise programming provides a
plurality of interactive exercise experiences to a user.
[0036] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes control signals
that selectively adjust the at least one selectively adjustable
operating parameter of the movable element to simulate terrain of a
real world location.
[0037] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes display
programming that presents to the user visual images of the
simulated real world location.
[0038] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise programming includes audio
programming.
[0039] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the audio programming presents to the user
educational information.
[0040] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the audio programming presents to the user
questions relating to the educational information.
[0041] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system is operatively associated
with the interactive exercise programming.
[0042] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the voice response system receives and processes
the user's verbal answers to the presented questions.
[0043] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the exercise system provides awards to the user
based on the user's performance in the interactive exercise
experience.
[0044] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the interactive exercise experiences are altered
based on verbal inputs from the user.
[0045] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the interactive exercise experiences are altered by
adjusting the at least one selectively adjustable operating
parameter of the movable element.
[0046] In another aspect that may be combined with any of the
aspects herein, the awards include digital incentives.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0047] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary exercise system according to
the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a treadmill that may be used
in the exercise system of FIG. 1.
[0049] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a stationary exercise cycle
that may be used in the exercise system of FIG. 1.
[0050] FIG. 4 is a perspective illustration of the control panel of
the treadmill of FIG. 2.
[0051] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of a process for
adjusting an operating parameter of an exercise device using verbal
commands.
[0052] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a process for
performing a multi-task function on an exercise device using verbal
commands.
[0053] FIG. 7A is a functional block diagram of a process for
performing one portion of another multi-task function on an
exercise device using verbal commands.
[0054] FIG. 7B is a functional block diagram of a process for
performing a second portion of the multi-task function of FIG. 7A
on an exercise device using verbal commands.
[0055] FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of a process of
connecting to a remote communication system and selecting one or
more options available from the remote communication system.
[0056] FIG. 9 is a flow diagram representing the actions performed
by the user and the system of FIG. 1 to create exercise programs in
accordance with the teachings of the present invention.
[0057] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of the process of
selecting an exercise device to be used in connection with the
exercise programs.
[0058] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of a process for
performing a fitness educational experience on an exercise
device.
[0059] FIG. 11A is a functional block diagram of a process for
incorporating user generated material into the exercise
programming.
[0060] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of a process of
selecting one or more themes for exercise programming.
[0061] FIG. 13 is a functional block diagram of exercise
programming according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0062] FIG. 13A is an illustration of a display showing exercise
profiles for the exercise programming.
[0063] FIG. 13B is a functional block diagram of a process for
obtaining display programming to match simulated terrain.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0064] Depicted in FIG. 1 is a representation of one illustrative
exercise system 10, which may incorporate the novel features of the
present invention, including various novel devices,
functionalities, hardware and software modules, and the like. As
shown, one or more exercise mechanisms 12, such as a treadmill 12a
and an exercise cycle 12b, are each in communication with a
communication system 14 (e.g. a website) or a portable data storage
device, such as, for example, memory card 15. Exercise programming
for controlling one or more aspects of treadmill 12a and/or
exercise cycle 12b may be stored on memory card 15 or communicated
from communication system 14 to treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle
12b.
[0065] The communication between communication system 14 and
treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b may be accomplished via a
personal computer 16. For instance, personal computers 16 may
communicate with a network 18 that is a communication network that
enables various hardware and software modules and devices to
communicate one with another. Network 18, therefore, may be a local
area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless network,
packetized network, real-time network, and the like. Network 18
facilitates communication between communication system 14 and
treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b. Communication system 14
may also assist with communication between a user on treadmill 12a
and/or exercise cycle 12b and one or more third parties 20, as will
be described in more detail hereinafter. Thus, exercise programming
may be downloaded from communication system 14 to treadmill 12a
and/or exercise cycle 12b via network 18. Likewise, the exercise
programming may also be streamed to treadmill 12a and/or exercise
cycle 12b over network 18.
[0066] In light of the disclosure herein, it will be understood
that the downloading of the exercise programming to treadmill 12a
and/or exercise cycle 12b may be a direct download from
communication system 14 to treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b,
or the exercise programming may be initially downloaded to personal
computer 16. Personal computer 16 may then communicate the exercise
programming to treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b. The
communication of the exercise programming from personal computer 16
to treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b may be through a wired
or wireless connection as discussed herein. Alternatively, the
exercise programming may be communicated from personal computer 16
to memory card 15, which may then be associated with treadmill 12a
and/or exercise cycle 12b. In still other embodiments, rather than
downloading the exercising programming and then storing it on
memory card 15, the exercise programming may be stored on memory
card 15 by communication system 14 and then memory card 15 may be
made available to a user of treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle
12b.
[0067] Memory card 15 may be in the form of any type of portable
memory device. Examples of such devices include, but are not
limited to, flash memory cards and USB-enabled memory devices. For
instance, by way of example and not limitation, memory card 15 may
be a Secure Digital (SD) card, a MultiMedia flash memory card
(MMC), DataFlash device, CompactFlash device, removable NAND-type
flash memory (e.g. SmartMedia, Sony Memory Stick),
one-time-programmable memory cards (OTP), XD cards, and the
like.
[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, connection between exercise
mechanisms 12 and network 18 can be made via a variety of
communication line connections. For example, as depicted in FIG. 1,
treadmill 12a is capable of wireless communication with network 18,
either directly or via computer 16 and/or wireless router 17.
Various other types of ports or interfaces may be included within
exercise mechanisms 12 to enable communication via one or more
communication line connections. For instance, an exercise mechanism
12 may include one or more ports and interfaces to enable
communication line connection through existing broadcast
technology, including television broadcast over the airwaves, cable
or cable modems, satellite, telephone lines, whether analog or
digitally based, the Internet, DSL, G-Lite, wireless technology,
infra-red (IR) technology, other high-speed data connections, or
any other suitable transmission technology or medium. In the
illustrated embodiment, exercise cycle 12b is shown with a hardwire
connection to personal computer 16, which has a hardwire connection
with network 18. Alternatively, exercise cycle 12b may include a
hardwire connection directly to network 18. Thus, system 10 may
allow for any type of connection between an exercise mechanism 12
and network 14, whether wired or wireless.
[0069] Although each exercise mechanism of system 10 is depicted as
communicating via a personal computer 16 and network 18 with a
single communication system 14 and two third parties 20, it is
appreciated by one skilled in the art that system 10 may be
otherwise configured. For example, treadmill 12a and exercise cycle
12b may communicate via the same personal computer 16. Similarly,
the exercise devices may communicate with multiple communications
systems 14 and third parties 20 via one or more networks 18.
Alternatively, one or more of the elements of system 10 may be
eliminated or the functionality thereof incorporated within the
structure and function of one or more of the other elements of
system 10.
[0070] Similarly, although each of the elements of system 10 are
shown separated one from another, it may be appreciated by one
skilled in the art that the hardware and/or software elements of
the present invention may be incorporated within two or more
elements. For example, personal computers 16 may be incorporated
within treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle 12b. Similarly, the
hardware and/or software elements of the communication system 14
may be incorporated within treadmill 12a and/or exercise cycle
12b.
[0071] Generally, examples of a third party 20 may include: (i) a
live human being; or (ii) a database, such as a website, computer,
optical media (e.g., compact disk or digital video disk), visual
media, or magnetic media (e.g., videotape, readable disk), an
electronic monitoring system, dynamic computer readable
instructions, interactive and/or dynamic software programs,
computer readable instructions, one or more other databases, other
media, hardware, and/or software modules and components that is/are
located external to communication system 14. In some embodiments, a
third party 20 may include MAPQUEST.COM, MAP.GOOGLE.COM, the GOOGLE
EARTH database, the GTOPO 30 database, the GOOGLE STREET VIEW
database, the MICROSOFT VIRTUAL EARTH database, the WIKIPEDIA
database, and the like. These third parties are examples of
databases that store data external to communication system 14.
[0072] Such databases store image data that can be displayed or can
be formatted or manipulated to be displayed on a display device 152
(see FIG. 4) of an exercise mechanism 12. The term "image data"
includes and/or is representative of: i) one or more static images;
and/or ii) one or more moving (i.e., video) images. For example,
image data as used herein may include a plurality of sequential
static images, a video display, and/or a single image of terrain to
be traversed by a user, such as a mountain, race course, or
street.
[0073] Furthermore, the phrase "display programming," as used
herein, includes image data and/or image data that has been
formatted or manipulated so that it can be synchronized with
control signals, audio programming, and/or displayed on a display
device of an exercise device. Examples of such display programming
that can display images on display 152 include, for example, video
programming, sequential static image programming, and/or a single
image of terrain to be traversed.
[0074] The majority of the discussion of system 10 will focus on
the use and interaction of treadmill 12a with system 10. However,
exercise cycle 12b will also be described in connection with FIG.
3. While system 10 will be described primarily in connection with
treadmill 12a, it may be appreciated that a similar discussion may
be had for exercise cycle 12b, other types of exercise mechanisms,
or multiple exercise mechanisms of the same or different type.
Thus, as illustrated in FIG. 1, exercise cycle 12b may be used in
connection with system 10 along with most of the features described
in connection with treadmill 12a.
[0075] Generally, system 10 enables exercise programming with
control signals to be accessed from memory card 15 and/or
transmitted from communication system 14, to a user on treadmill
12a. As disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,312,363, entitled "Systems and
Methods for Providing an Improved Exercise Device with Motivational
Programming," the programming may include motivational content
and/or one or more control signals that may be used to control the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a. The control signals may be
synchronized with the motivational content and designed to control
one or more operating parameters of the exercise device, such as
the speed, incline, difficulty of exercise program, time, distance,
and the like of an exercise program performed on treadmill 12a.
[0076] As used herein, the term "motivational content" is used to
broadly refer to any video or visual material, whether still or
moving, of real world environments, routes, locations, and the
like, either alone or in combination with audio material, including
dialog, narration, sound effects, and/or music. The motivational
content may be preset or preprogrammed or the motivational content
may be dynamic so that it can be changed manually or automatically
during an exercise session. In some embodiments of the present
invention, the motivational content is stored or obtained from a
third party 20. In other embodiments, the motivational content is
stored by communication system 14 and/or exercise mechanism 12.
[0077] Various terms are used herein to describe actual outdoor
exercise experiences that can be simulated on treadmill 12a, or
another exercise device. These terms include real world
environments, places, routes, trails, paths, courses, hikes,
locations, and the like. It will be appreciated that these terms
are used to broadly refer to characteristics of actual places in
the world, including the topography, appearance, and sounds
associated with the real world places. Additionally, exercise
system 10 is described as being able to simulate these real world
places. Simulating these real world places refers to providing a
user of an exercise device an experience that is similar to
actually being in the real world places. In other words, system 10
is adapted to replicate on an exercise device the topography,
sights, and/or sounds that a person would experience were the
person to actually to walk, run, ride, or the like, through the
actual real world location.
[0078] Generally, communication between treadmill 12a and
communication system 14 and/or a third party 20 may include both
the motivational content and the control signals, whether or not
such control signals are synchronized with the motivational
content. Alternatively, the communication may include only the
motivational content, other signals representative of measurable
parameters of the exercise device (e.g. speed, inclination,
resistance, etc) and/or a user of the exercise device (e.g. heart
rate, blood pressure, etc), and the like. For example, treadmill
12a may transmit one or more signals to communication system 18.
The signals may include parameters such as the status of the
exercise device, e.g., active status (i.e., on), deactivated status
(i.e., off), standby status (i.e., waiting), and the like, and/or
parameters such as speed, inclination, resistance. Additionally,
the signals may include parameters regarding the user, such as
heart rate, blood pressure, and the like. Alternatively, treadmill
12a may receive programming "broadcast" by communication system 14,
such that any treadmill with the capabilities to receive the
programming may access such, without the need to transmit one or
more signals.
[0079] As mentioned above, the control signals control the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a, such as speed, inclination,
resistance, and the like. Such control may be achieved by
communication system 14, or a combination of communication system
14 and a third party 20 interacting with treadmill 12a and/or
communication system 14. Generally, the present invention allows
control of a device, such as an exercise device, without the need
to interrupt the other portions of the programming, such as the
real-time audio and/or video.
[0080] FIG. 2 depicts a perspective view of treadmill 12a that can
be used in connection with system 10. Treadmill 12a, in one
embodiment, includes a console or control panel 22 supported on a
generally upright support structure 24 and a treadbase 26. Upright
support structure 24, in this illustrated embodiment, includes two
side members 28, 30 connected to a base frame 32. Side members 28,
30 and base frame 32 may have various configurations and may be
fabricated from various materials so long as they are capable of
supporting control panel 22.
[0081] The treadbase 26 typically includes a pair of side rails 34,
36 each having a front portion proximal to and a rear portion
distal from upright support structure 24. A front pulley 38 and a
rear pulley 40 (not shown) are disposed between and supported by
side rails 34, 36, while a continuous belt 42 extends between and
around front and rear pulleys 38 and 40, respectively. A deck 44
typically supports the upper run of belt 42 and an exercising
individual positioned upon belt 42.
[0082] As is common with electric treadmills, such as treadmill
12a, front pulley 38 is mechanically connected to an electric tread
drive motor 46 (not shown) by way of a drive belt 48 (not shown).
Motor 46 can incorporate an inertial flywheel that controls
fluctuations in the rotational motion of a shaft of motor 46 during
operation of treadmill 12a. Motor 46 is optionally electrically
connected to a treadmill controller 50 (not shown) that controls
the operation of motor 46, and thus the speed of belt 42, in
response to various user inputs or other control signals. Treadmill
controller 50 can be incorporated within treadbase 26, control
panel 22, or within personal computer 16.
[0083] In addition to the ability to control and vary the speed of
belt 42, treadmill 12a may also permit the degree of incline of
treadbase 26 relative to the floor, or other support surface upon
which treadmill 12a rests, to be varied. For instance, as described
in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2010/0248900, the disclosure of
which in incorporated herein by reference in its entirety,
treadbase 26 can be oriented in a neutral position, an inclined
position, or a declined position. In the neutral position,
treadbase 26 is substantially parallel to the support surface. In
the inclined position, the front portion of treadbase 26 is above
the rear portion of treadbase 26 to enable an exerciser to simulate
walking or running up a hill. Similarly, in a declined position the
front portion of treadbase 26 is below the rear portion of
treadbase 26 to enable an exerciser to simulate walking or running
down a hill.
[0084] Treadmill 12a may also permit treadbase 26 to be tilted from
side to side in order to more closely replicate walking or running
on outdoor terrain. More specifically, treadbase 26 can be tilted
such that one side of treadbase 26 is higher than the other (e.g.,
tilted so that side rail 34 is higher than side rail 36, or vice
versa) to simulate surfaces that are not level from side to side,
such as when walking or running across a hill.
[0085] The inclination, declination, and tilting capabilities of
treadbase 26 enable treadmill 12a to more closely replicate an
outdoor walking or running experience. The inclination,
declination, and tilting of treadbase 26 can be accomplished
through the use of various inclination and tilting mechanisms. U.S.
Patent Publication No. 2010/0248900 discloses example inclination
and tilting mechanisms that may be used in connection with the
present invention to provide these features.
[0086] Attention is now directed to FIG. 3, which illustrates
exercise cycle 12b that can be used with system 10. Exercise cycle
12b, in one embodiment, includes a support base 90 and a generally
upright support structure 92 pivotally connected thereto. Upright
support structure 92, in this illustrative embodiment, includes two
support members 94, 96. Support member 94 includes a seat 98 upon
which a user may sit when exercising on exercise cycle 12b. Support
member 96 includes a handlebar assembly 100 and a console or
control panel 102.
[0087] In the illustrative embodiment, a drive assembly 104 is
mounted on upright support structure 92. Drive assembly 104
includes a rotatable pedal assembly 106. Pedal assembly 106
includes a pair of cranks 108 that are rotatably mounted on support
member 94. Attached to each crank 108 is a pedal 110, which a user
can engage with their feet to rotate pedal assembly 106. As will be
appreciated by one skilled in the art, pedal assembly 106 can also
be mounted on support member 96 or support base 90.
[0088] Drive assembly 104 also includes a resistance assembly 112
for providing resistance to the rotation of pedal assembly 106.
Resistance assembly 112 includes a flywheel 114 and a braking
mechanism 116 mounted on support member 96. Braking mechanism 116
is adapted to selectively adjust the rotational speed of flywheel
114. Resistance assembly 112 is connected to pedal assembly 106 by
an endless belt or chain 118 such that the rotational speed of
pedal assembly 106 and flywheel 114 are related to one another.
[0089] Braking mechanism 116 can comprise a frictional brake, a
magnetic brake, or any other suitable brake for controlling the
rotational speed of flywheel 114. Braking mechanism 116 is
optionally connected to an exercise cycle controller 120 (not
shown), which is similar to treadmill controller 50. Exercise cycle
controller 120 controls the operation of braking mechanism 116, and
thus the rotational speed of flywheel 114 in response to various
user inputs or other control signals. Exercise cycle controller 120
can be incorporated within resistance assembly 112, control panel
102, or within personal computer 16.
[0090] Because resistance assembly 112 is connected to pedal
assembly 106, the braking provided to flywheel 114 by braking
mechanism 116 affects the resistance to the rotation of pedal
assembly 106. In other words, when a positive braking force is
applied to flywheel 114, it is harder for a user to rotate pedal
assembly 106. Conversely, when little or no braking force is
applied to flywheel 114, it is relatively easy for a user to rotate
pedal assembly 106. Additionally, braking mechanism 116 may also be
adapted to apply a negative resistance to flywheel 114, which may
actually provide a force that facilitates rotation of the pedal
assembly 106. Thus, if a negative resistance is present, a positive
force may be applied that tends to rotate pedal assembly 106 even
in the absence of input from the user. By adjusting the amount or
type (e.g. positive or negative resistance) of braking applied to
flywheel 114, exercise cycle 12b can thus vary speed at which a
user can pedal and/or the resistance experienced by the user as he
or she pedals on exercise cycle 12b. In this manner exercise cycle
12b is able to simulate the types of resistances and pedaling
speeds that a user may experience if riding a bicycle outdoors.
[0091] In addition to the ability to control and vary the speed and
resistance of pedal assembly 106, exercise cycle 12b also permits
the tilting of upright support structure 92 relative to the floor,
or other surface upon which exercise cycle 12b rests, to be varied.
For instance, as described in U.S. Patent Publication No.
2011/0172059, the disclosure of which in incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety, upright support structure 92 can be
oriented in a neutral position, an forwardly tilted position, or a
backwardly tilted position. In the neutral position, handle bar
assembly 100 and seat 98 are at generally the same vertical height
so that the user will feel that he or she is sitting on a bicycle
that is on a level surface. In the forwardly tilted position the
handle bar assembly 100 is vertically below seat 98 to give the
user the feel of riding down a hill. In the backwardly tilted
position the handle bar assembly 100 is vertically above seat 98 to
give the user the feel of riding up a hill. Typical bicycle rides
outside, for example, involve inclines and declines as well as flat
surfaces, each of which can be accommodated and replicated by the
tilting ability of upright support structure 92. Thus, exercise
cycle 12b is able to more closely simulate a typical outdoor
bicycle ride.
[0092] Exercise cycle 12b may also permit upright support structure
92 to be tilted from side-to-side in order to more closely
replicate riding on outdoor terrain. More specifically, upright
support structure can be tilted from side-to-side so that handle
bar assembly 100 is angled relative to a support surface on which
exercise cycle 12b is resting. The side-to-side tilting ability of
exercise cycle 12b enables a user to simulate making right and left
turns on a bicycle, for example.
[0093] The forward, backward, and side-to-side tilting capabilities
of upright support structure 92 enable exercise cycle 12b to more
closely replicate an outdoor bicycling experience. The forward,
backward, and side-to-side tilting of upright support structure 92
can be accomplished through the use of various tilting mechanisms,
such as tilting mechanism 122. Tilting mechanism 122 may be
connected between support base 90 and upright support structure 92.
Tilting mechanism 122 may extend or retract to cause upright
support structure 92 to tilt forward or backward to simulate riding
up and down hills. As with braking mechanism 116, titling mechanism
122 can optionally be connected to exercise cycle controller 120 to
control the operation of tilting mechanism 122 in response to
various user inputs or other control signals.
[0094] Attention is now directed back to system 10. The following
discussion will be directed toward how a user is able to interact
with system 10 in ways other than just exercising on exercise
mechanisms 12. For instance, in addition to being able walk, run,
ride, and the like on exercise mechanisms 12, system 10 enables a
user to, among other things, i) control various operating
parameters of exercise mechanisms 12 with verbal commands, ii)
perform multi-task functions with verbal commands, iii) select real
world routes, trails, paths, or courses so that the exercise
mechanisms 12 simulate the terrain of the selected real world
route, trail, path, or course, and display images of the selected
real world route, trail, path, or course, iv) receive educational
information, and v) interact in a fitness educational experience.
While the following discussion will be directed toward using
treadmill 12a with system 10, it will be appreciated from the
disclosure herein that other types of exercise devices, such as
exercise cycle 12b, can be used with system 10.
[0095] As noted above, exercise mechanisms 12 include a control
panel (e.g., control panels 22, 102). The following discussion will
focus on control panel 22 of treadmill 12a. Nevertheless, control
panel 102 may be designed to perform similar or identical
functions. Control panel 22, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 4,
includes one or more interface devices. Such interface devices may
be either input devices or output devices. Input devices enable a
user to input and vary the operating parameters of treadmill
12a.
[0096] As examples of such input devices, control panel 22 includes
many typical controllers for use on an exercise device, such as a
treadmill. A number of illustrative input devices include, but are
not limited to, time controls 126, distance controls 128, speed
controls 130, incline controls 132, a start button 134, a stop or
pause button 136, and heart rate controls 138. In addition to these
input devices, control panel 22 further optionally includes an
iFit.com button 140, a manual override button 142, and a scaling
control 144, each of which are also examples of input devices.
[0097] In addition to the above-described input devices, control
panel 22 may include a variety of other input devices. For example,
control panel 22 may include an integrally formed mouse 146.
Additionally, control panel 22 may include a keyboard jack 148 for
an external keyboard 150 (FIG. 2), a touch-sensitive video display
152, and various other ports, jacks, or the like to receive various
other external components. It will be appreciated that the external
components, such as keyboard 150, may be integrally formed within
control panel 22. Additionally, one or more of the input devices
may be incorporated into personal computer 16 (FIG. 1).
[0098] It is appreciated that each of the above-recited controllers
or buttons may be embodied in a variety of different manners to
perform their commonly utilized function. For instance, each
controller, button, and the like may take the form of one or more
switches, rheostats, potentiometers, touch sensitive controls,
voice activated controllers, and the like. Thus, depending on the
specific type of input device that control panel 22 includes, a
user of treadmill 12a may press a button, turn a knob, slide or
flip a switch, or otherwise activate the input devices.
[0099] By way of example, a user may press one or more buttons to
increase or decrease the speed of belt 42 or the inclination of
treadbase 26. Alternatively, control panel 22 may include or be
connected to, via a wired or wireless connection, a microphone 145
that is receptive to verbal commands or other inputs provided by
the user. Microphone 145 is connected to treadmill controller 50 so
that verbal commands or other verbal inputs received from the user
are communicated to treadmill controller 50. Treadmill controller
50 may include voice recognition software that is capable of
processing or manipulating the verbal command into one or more
control signals or executable instructions for adjusting the
operating parameters of treadmill 12b, including the speed of belt
42, the inclination of treadbase 26, the speed of a fan (not shown)
for cooling the user, and the like. Treadmill controller 50 and the
voice recognition software may be collectively referred to as a
voice response system.
[0100] For instance, as depicted in FIG. 5 at reference number 160,
a user may provide the command "Incline to 8%" to adjust the
inclination of treadbase 26. At 162, microphone 145 receives the
verbal command and, at 164, microphone 145 communicates the verbal
command to the voice response system. The voice response system
converts the verbal command into a control signal or executable
instruction (166) that is sent, at 168, to an inclination
mechanism. The control signal or executable instruction activates
the inclination mechanism to adjust the incline of treadbase 26 to
an 8% grade, as indicated at 170.
[0101] In order to filter out other verbal communications from the
user or other people, the voice response system may be programmed
to ignore verbal communications unless the communications include
certain command prompt words. For instance, the voice response
system may be programmed not to adjust the operating parameters
unless a verbal command begins with the word "Command." Thus, in
order for the user to adjust the operating parameters using verbal
commands, the user may need to begin the verbal command with the
word "Command." By way of example, rather than just saying "Incline
to 8%", the user would say "Command: Incline to 8%." Without the
command prompt word, the voice response system would ignore the
verbal communications and leave the operating parameters in their
current state. Requiring a command prompt word before accepting a
verbal command allows the user or others to speak or listen to
music while exercising without inadvertently adjusting the
operating parameters of exercise mechanisms 12.
[0102] Each input device is, thus, adapted to allow a user
operating treadmill 12a to more fully operate or adjust one or more
operating parameters of treadmill 12a. Furthermore, the input
devices enable the user to access communication system 14, third
parties 20, or other hardware and/or software modules that are
accessible via network 18. For example, the input devices may allow
a user to access the Internet to obtain exercise programming as
discussed herein. To facilitate access to the Internet, control
panel 22 may be equipped with an Internet browser or control panel
22 may communicate with personal computer 16 to use an Internet
browser thereon.
[0103] With access to network 18 (e.g., the Internet), a user of
treadmill 12a may also be able to visit various websites and/or
send and receive emails or other electronic communications. As with
adjusting the operating parameters of treadmill 12a, the various
input devices of treadmill 12a may be used to control the browser
on control panel 22 or personal computer 16. For instance, mouse
146, keyboard 150, and/or touch-sensitive display 156 may be used
to direct the browser to different websites, access/write emails or
other electronic messages, or read/write other documents.
[0104] Additionally, the voice response system may also allow a
user to perform these same functions via verbal commands rather
than requiring the user to use his or her hands. For instance, as
depicted in FIG. 6, a user of treadmill 12a may visit the iFit.com
website by providing the command "Browser: ifit.com," as indicated
at 172. Microphone 145 may receive the verbal command at 174 and
communicate the verbal command to the voice response system at 176.
The voice response system may convert the verbal command into a
control signal or executable instruction at 178. The control signal
or executable instruction may direct the Internet browser to the
iFit.com website, as indicated at 180. As discussed above, the
command prompt "Browser" may be used as an indication to the voice
response system that a command is being provided.
[0105] Similarly, a user of treadmill 12a may dictate an email or
other document while exercising. For instance, as indicated at 182
in FIG. 7A, the user may use verbal commands to open a new email
(e.g., "Email: Create New Email"). As with the other verbal
commands discussed herein, microphone 145 receives the verbal
command at 184 and communicates the verbal command to the voice
response system at 186. At 188, the voice response system converts
the verbal command into a control signal or executable instruction,
which directs an email application to create a new email, as
indicated at 190. The newly created email may be displayed on
display 152, as indicated at 192.
[0106] With a new email created, the user may provide a command to
begin dictation of an email message, as indicated at 194 in FIG.
7B. As with the aforementioned verbal commands, the dictated
message is received by microphone 145 at 196. Microphone 145
communicates the dictated message to the voice response system at
198. The voice response system transcribes the dictated message
into the email as shown at 200. As indicated at 202, the
transcribed email message may be displayed on display 152 so that
the user may review the message before sending it. Once the email
message has been transcribed, the user may provide a command to
save the draft email (e.g., "Command: Save email draft") or send
the email to the designated recipients (e.g., "Command: Send
email"), as indicated at 204.
[0107] As shown in FIG. 4, the iFit.com button 140, in one
embodiment, may act as both a selector and an indicator of
connectivity of treadmill 12a to communication system 14, and
optionally one or more third parties 20, whether such connectivity
is via computer 16, wireless router 17, or directly from treadmill
12a. The iFit.com button 140 optionally includes an indicator light
(not shown) that demonstrates when a connection has been
established between treadmill 12a and communication system 14, such
as when the iFit.com button 140 is depressed or a verbal command is
given to create such a connection. Alternatively, a light emitting
diode (LED) positioned in close proximity to the iFit.com button
140 may be activated when the iFit.com button 140 is activated.
[0108] As discussed above, the connection achieved by activating
iFit.com button 140 or through verbal commands may be via a variety
of communication line connections. For example, as shown in FIG. 4,
control panel 22 includes a wireless port 154 that enables
treadmill 12a to wirelessly communicate with network 18 (FIG. 1),
either directly or via computer 16 and/or wireless router 17.
Alternatively, control panel 22 may have a hard wire connection to
network 18, either directly or via computer 16.
[0109] In one embodiment, by activating iFit.com button 140 or by
giving a related verbal command, a user of treadmill 12a, or other
exercise device, connects to communication system 14, such as a
website. Such connection may be via an independently located
computer, such as computer 16, through a modem (not shown),
wireless router 17, or directly through a local area network (LAN)
or wide area network (WAN) by way of the described communication
line connections for example, or other connections known to one
skilled in the art. More specifically, by activating the iFit.com
button 140 or providing a verbal command (e.g., "Command: Connect
to iFit.com") a signal is transmitted via network 18 to
communication system 14 to create a connection therebetween.
[0110] As illustrated in FIG. 8, once a connection is made between
treadmill 12a and communication system 14, either directly or via
computer 16, a user may access various programs, features, and the
like of communication system 14. For example, once a connection is
made, a user can access, select, create, and/or download exercise
programming for use with treadmill 12a by selecting the Exercise
Program Generation option. As discussed herein, the exercise
programming and other features discussed herein may be stored on
memory card 15, treadmill 12a, and/or personal computer 16. Thus,
while this discussion focuses on downloading or accessing the
programs and features available from communication system 14, these
programs and features may also be available without requiring
access to communication system 14 or network 18. Rather, these
programs and features may be available from a built-in memory
device on treadmill 12a, a removable memory device, such as memory
card 15, or personal computer 16.
[0111] As discussed herein, the exercise programming can include
one or more signals that adjust one or more operating parameters of
treadmill 12a as well as provide display and/or audio programming.
With an established connection to communication system 14 (or if
the capabilities are provided on treadmill 12a, memory card 15, or
personal computer 16), the user can also select other options, such
as personal training, health information, competition, diagnostics,
and the like, as shown in FIG. 8.
[0112] In another embodiment, a user may access communication
system 14 using personal computer 16. With a connection established
between personal computer 16 and communication system 14, a user
may access the programs, features, and options mentioned above.
After the user selects the desired option, such as selecting an
exercise program, communication system 14 can communicate the
exercise program to treadmill 12a directly or via personal computer
16 or a portable memory device, such as memory card 15.
[0113] In any case, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when a user indicates
that he or she would like to select and download an exercise
program, communication system 14 may prompt the user to select the
type of exercise device upon which the exercise program will be
used. FIG. 10 illustrates a functional block diagram of the process
of selecting an exercise device to be used in connection with the
exercise program. As seen in FIG. 10, the user may be given the
option to select from among many different types of exercise
devices, including treadmills, cycles, Nordic type skiers,
climbers, hikers, steppers, ellipticals, and the like. After
selecting the type of exercise device to be used, the user can then
select the desired exercise program that is compatible with the
selected exercise device.
[0114] The exercise programming can take any one of a number of
forms. The exercise programming can include signals generated by
communication system 14 and sent to treadmill 12a. The signals may
include exercise control signals, audio programming, and/or display
programming. The exercise controls signals can be configured to
control/adjust one or more operating parameters of treadmill 12a,
such as the exercise time, the incline and/or tilt of treadbase 26,
and/or the speed of belt 42. The display and/or audio programming
can provide various types of information, including instruction,
education, and entertainment. Furthermore, as discussed below, the
exercise programming can be interactive such that the user can be
engaged with the exercise programming in ways other than just
performing an exercise.
[0115] As illustrated in the embodiment of FIG. 9, the user may
select between preprogrammed exercise programming and user defined
exercise programming. When a user selects the preprogrammed
exercise programming option, the user can view and select from
among one or more available preprogrammed exercise programs. The
signals of the selected exercise programming can then be sent over
network 18 to treadmill 12a to control the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a and/or provide display/audio programming to the user.
The exercise programming may include common exercise routines that
vary the speed and incline of treadmill 12a at various time
intervals during the routine.
[0116] The exercise programming may also be adapted to simulate a
real world environment, such as a trail, route, course, path, or
the like. By way of non-limiting example, the exercise programming
may be adapted to simulate the terrain surrounding the pyramids of
Giza or Battle Road between Lexington and Concord, Mass. More
specifically, the control signals can be adapted to adjust the
incline and tilt of treadbase 26 to replicate the hills, level
surfaces, and the like, encountered in these locations.
[0117] In addition to adjusting the physical operating parameters
of treadmill 12a, the exercise programming can include display
and/or audio programming that are related to the control signals.
The display programming can be presented on video display 152,
while the audio programming can be presented by audio output 156
(FIG. 4), such as a speaker. In the example of the exercise
programming simulating Battle Road between Lexington and Concord,
Mass., the display programming can include still or moving images
of the road, including buildings, bridges, and landscape that are
seen along the road. The display programming may also include maps,
painting, drawings, and the like relating to the simulated
location. The display programming may be presented to the user in
either 2D or 3D.
[0118] The display programming can be synchronized with the control
signals that adjust the operating parameters of treadmill 12a.
Synchronizing the control signals and the display programming
allows a user to view the real world environment at the same time
the user encounters operating parameters that simulate the viewed
real world environment. For example, as a user walks or runs on
treadmill 12a, the control signals may cause treadmill 12a to
simulate the terrain (i.e., hills, etc.) that a person would
encounter as he or she walked or ran along Battle Road. As the user
of treadmill 12a experiences the terrain of Battle Road, the user
can also view images, whether still or moving, of Battle Road and
its surroundings, which the control signals are simulating.
[0119] Similar to the display programming, the audio programming
can include typical sounds heard by a person traveling along Battle
Road, including cars, sirens, horns, nature sounds, and the like.
The audio programming may also provide information about the
location being simulated or the images presented in the display
programming. For example, the audio programming may include
information typically provided on a tour of Battle Road. More
specifically, the audio programming may include historical
information about the Battles of Lexington and Concord that
occurred during the Revolutionary War.
[0120] The audio programming can be synchronized with the control
signals and the display programming so that the sounds and/or
information provided by the audio programming is related to what
the user is seeing on display 152 and experiencing on treadmill
12a. For instance, as the user views images and experiences the
terrain of Battle Road, the user may also hear sounds typically
heard along the simulated and displayed portions of Battle Road.
Additionally, or alternatively, the user may be provided with
information in narrative form about Battle Road, the Battles of
Lexington and Concord, the Revolutionary War, and the like. While
the exercise programming has been described above in connection
with Battle Road, it will be appreciated that the exercise
programming may simulate and display, visually or audibly, other
real world environments.
[0121] As illustrated in FIG. 9, the user may also select the User
Defined Exercise Programs option. Communication system 14 may be
configured to allow a user at treadmill 12a or personal computer 16
to create or select various aspects of exercise programming that
suitable to the desires of the user. When creating a user defined
or unique exercise program, the user may have the option to select,
among other things, a desired route, display programming, and/or
audio programming. The user may also have the option to select
other exercise programming parameters, such as the exercise time,
changes in the speed of belt 42, changes in the incline and/or tilt
of treadbase 26, total calories to be burned, total distance to be
traveled, total elevation change, themes for the programming, and
the like.
[0122] By way of example, a user accessing communication system 14
may be able to select a real world environment which he or she
would like treadmill 12a to simulate. In selecting the real world
environment, the user may select a starting point, and ending
point, and a specific route between the two. Alternatively, the
user may select a starting point and an ending point, and allow
communication system 14 and/or one or more of third parties 20 to
select the route therebetween. In still other embodiments, the user
may select a starting point and allow communication system 14
and/or one or more of third parties 20 to select a route that
proceeds from the starting point for a selected time, distance, or
the like. In yet other embodiments, the user may select a
predefined route based on one or more characteristics of the route.
Such characteristics may include distance, elevation change,
historical significance, geographic characteristics, wild life, or
plant life. The real world environment may be a famous or
well-known environment, tour route, hike, or the like.
Alternatively, a user may create an exercise program that simulates
any other real world environment.
[0123] In order to generate exercise programming as described
above, communication system 14 may require access to one or more
types of data. Some types of data that may be needed to generate
the above described exercise programming include maps,
topographical data, video or image data, audio data, historical
data, geographic data, and the like. The map data allows for the
creation of a route through a real world environment which will be
simulated on treadmill 12a. The topographical data can be used to
generate control signals that adjust one or more operating
parameters of treadmill 12a to simulate the actual topography along
the real world route. The video/image data, the audio data, and
other types of data can be used to provide the user with a visual
representation of and/or audio information relating to the real
world route that is simulated on treadmill 12a.
[0124] The data used to generate the exercise programming may be
stored at treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, communication system
14, and/or at one or more other locations, such as one or more
third parties 20. Third parties 20 may be websites and/or databases
that are accessible via network 18. Disclosed herein are a few
examples of third parties 20 that can be accessed to retrieve
information and data that can be used to generate the above
described exercise programming. It is understood that the exemplary
third parties 20 noted herein are not an exclusive or exhaustive
list of available third parties 20. Rather, the identified third
parties 20 are provided simply by way of example.
[0125] There are multiple route planning and mapping software
applications and programs which can be used by communication system
14 and/or a user at treadmill 12a to develop a route for exercise
programming as described herein. Examples of such are MAPQUEST.COM,
MAPS.GOOGLE.COM, and GOOGLE EARTH (available at earth.google.com).
With these applications, a user is able to select a starting point
and an ending point. The applications provide multiple different
routes between the two points. Alternatively, the applications
allow for the creation of customized routes between the beginning
and end points by selecting intermediate points between the
beginning and ending points.
[0126] Similarly, there are multiple databases that store
topographical data for specific regions of the world. In addition,
the U.S. Geological Survey maintains a database, the GTOPO 30 or
Global Topography at 30 arc/second database (available at
edc.usgs.gov), which includes topographical data for the entire
world. Treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication
system 14 can access one or more of these databases to retrieve
information and data regarding the real world route that is to be
simulated on treadmill 12. With this data, the control signals can
be generated to control one or more of the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a, such as the incline and/or tilt of treadbase 26, to
simulate the terrain of the real world route.
[0127] Databases that store still or moving images of real world
locations can also be accessed by treadmill 12a, personal computer
16, and/or communication system 14 in order to provide to the user
of treadmill 12a a visual representation of the real world route
that is simulated on treadmill 12a. Examples of such databases
include the GOOGLE EARTH, GOOGLE STREET VIEW (available at
MAPS.GOOGLE.COM), and MICROSOFT VIRTUAL EARTH (available at
www.microsoft.com/virtualearth) databases. Other databases may
store display programming or image data that is created
specifically for incorporation into the exercise programming. Each
of these databases may provide a bird's eye view or a street level
view of a selected route or location.
[0128] Databases that store text or audio data relating to real
world locations, events, subjects, and the like can also be
accessed by treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or
communication system 14 in order to provide to the user of
treadmill 12a with additional information relating to the real
world route that is simulated on treadmill 12a. For instance,
databases that store audio recordings relating to specific
locations, events, or topics may be accessed to obtain audio
programming that can be incorporated into the exercise programming.
Alternatively, text-based databases, such as the WIKIPEDIA
database, may be accessed to obtain information about specific
locations, events, or topics. The text from these databases may be
incorporated into the exercise programming as part of the display
programming that is displayed on display 152, or the text may be
converted to audio data that is incorporated into the exercise
programming as part of the audio programming that is presented to
the user through a speaker. Other databases may store text or audio
data that is created specifically for incorporation into the
exercise programming.
[0129] With access to at least some of the data described above,
treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14
is able to generate exercise programming that allows treadmill 12a
to simulate real world environments. In one embodiment, a user of
treadmill 12a accesses an exercise program generation module via
control panel 22. The exercise program generation module, which is
resident on treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, or communication
system 14, provides a user interface that allows the user to select
a preprogrammed exercise route or create a user defined exercise
route as shown in FIG. 9. In the case of creating a user defined
exercise route, the exercise program generation module allows the
user to enter a starting point, an ending point, and/or one or more
intermediate points that will define the exercise route.
[0130] With the route defined (either predefined or user defined),
treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14
communicates with one or more third parties 20 that provide map and
topographical data relating to the selected route. The map and
topographical data provided by the third parties 20 may include a
map highlighting the selected route, total route distance, route
directions, travel times for specific speeds, as well as forward,
backward, and side-to-side elevation changes along the selected
route.
[0131] Treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication
system 14 can also communicate with one or more other third parties
20 to retrieve other data relating to the selected route. For
example, the GOOGLE STREET VIEW database can be accessed to
retrieve images of the selected route. Furthermore, other types of
databases, such as audio databases, that provide audible
information relating to the selected route, can be accessed to
retrieve audio data relating to the selected route.
[0132] Once the data has been retrieved for the selected route,
treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14
compiles the gathered data and generates the exercise program.
Treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14
uses the map and topographical data to generate a series of control
signals that control one or more operating parameters of treadmill
12a. In other words, using a correlation algorithm, treadmill 12a,
personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14 can
synchronize the topographical data with the map data to correlate
the distance and the grade or elevation change between two points
on the selected route and generate a control signal that will cause
treadmill 12a to simulate that terrain. For instance, treadmill
12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14 can use
the map data to determine that the distance between point A and
point B is 1/2 mile, and can use the topographical data to
determine that the area between points A and B has a grade of 12%.
Using this information, treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or
communication system 14 generates one or more control signals that
will cause treadmill 12a to incline treadbase 26 to a 12% grade
until the user has walked for 1/2 mile. In a similar manner,
treadmill 12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14
can use the map data, the topographical data, and other reference
points along the selected route to generate control signals that
control the tilt of treadbase 26.
[0133] In addition to generating the control signals, treadmill
12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14 can also
generate display programming to accompany the control signals. As
mentioned above, the display programming can include still or
moving images of the selected real world route, which treadmill
12a, personal computer 16, and/or communication system 14 retrieves
from one or more third parties 20. For example, the Google Street
View database may be accessed via the Google Maps API (application
programming interface) to retrieve a series of images from of the
selected real world route. When a series of images are used to
provide a visual depiction of the selected rout, the images can be
cached or buffered so that upon delivery to the user of treadmill
12a, the images provide an almost seamless, video-like depiction of
the selected real world route.
[0134] As mentioned above, the display programming can be
synchronized with the control signals. In this manner, the control
signals will adjust the operating parameters of treadmill 12a at
the same time the display programming depicts a change in the
terrain of the real world route. For instance, at the same time the
control signals begin to cause treadbase 26 to incline to simulate
a hill on the real world route, the display programming shows one
or more images of the hill on the real world route as if the user
were actually beginning to ascend the hill.
[0135] Once the control signals have been generated from the
topographical/map data and the display programming from the
retrieved images of the real world route, a correlation algorithm
can be employed to synchronize the control signals with the display
programming. In one embodiment, the correlation algorithm uses data
about the series of retrieved images, such as the number of images
along the real world route, the real world distances between the
images, and the like. Similarly, the correlation algorithm also
uses information from the retrieved topographical/map data, such as
distances between locations on the real world route, changes in
elevation between locations on the real world route, directional
changes along the real world route, and the like. Using this data,
the correlation algorithm synchronizes the control signals and the
display programming. For example, the correlation algorithm may
coordinate the first control signal with the display of the first
image of the remote real world route. The correlation algorithm may
correlate a subsequent image with a change in the map data, such as
when the map data indicates a change in a certain distance from the
previous real world location. The correlation algorithm may also
correlate subsequent images with a change in the topographical
data, such as an elevation change from the previous real world
location.
[0136] As noted above, the exercise programming can also include
audio programming that is synchronized with the control signals and
the display programming. The audio programming can include sounds
that may typically be heard along the real world route, such as
cars, sirens, animals, people, and the like. The audio programming
can also include in verbal form (e.g., narration, singing, etc.)
information about sites along the real world route. For example, if
a user chose to have treadmill 12a simulate a route through
Washington D.C. which passed by sites such as the White House, the
U.S. Capital building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington
Monument, the audio programming could provide information about
each of these sites, such as might be heard during a tour of
Washington D.C. A correlation algorithm, such as the one described
above, may be used to coordinate the presentation of the audio
programming with the display programming and the control
signals.
[0137] Once the exercise programming has been created and/or
delivered to treadmill 12a via any suitable means, such as those
described herein, treadmill 12a can run/execute the exercise
programming by processing the control signals, the display
programming, and/or the audio programming. As treadmill 12a runs
the exercise programming, treadmill 12a simulates the remote, real
world exercise route. In particular, the control signals of the
exercise programming cause treadmill 12a to adjust one or more
operating parameters, such as the incline or tilt of treadbase 26,
to replicate the terrain of the remote, real world exercise route.
In addition, treadmill 12a displays, via display 152 and speaker
156, the display programming and the audio programming relating to
the remote, real world exercise route.
[0138] As noted above, treadmill 12a can monitor the actual
operating parameters of treadmill 12a, such as the incline and tilt
of treadbase 26 and the speed of belt 42. The actual operating
parameters of treadmill 12a and the exercise programming can be
correlated so that the control signals, display programming, and
audio programming are updated or changed at the appropriate times.
For instance, the exercise programming may include control signals
that incline treadbase 26 to a 5% grade for 1/4 mile and then
decline treadbase to a 2% grade for 1 mile. The speed of belt 42
will affect the amount of time that each of the controls signals is
active or the time between control signals. If belt 42 were moving
at five miles per hour (mph), for example, the user would traverse
the 1/4 mile segment in three minutes and the one mile segment in
twelve minutes. If belt 42 were moving at two and one-half mph,
however, it would take the user six minutes to traverse the 1/4
mile segment and twenty-four minutes to traverse the one mile
segment. Thus, correlating or synchronizing the actual operating
parameters of treadmill 12a with the exercise programming allows
treadmill 12a to be controlled in such a way as to realistically
simulate the real world environment. The correlation or
synchronization of the exercise programming and the actual
operating parameters can be performed by treadmill controller 50,
control panel 22, personal computer 16, communication system 14, or
a combination thereof.
[0139] Regardless of whether the exercise programming is
preprogrammed or at least partially defined by the user, system 10
enables the fitness educational of the user. As used herein, the
term "fitness educational" broadly refers to the combination of
physical fitness and intellectual education. More specifically,
fitness educational may refer to intellectual learning that is
enabled, enhanced, or made more enjoyable through physical
activity. While people have many different learning styles, it is
generally accepted that most individuals learn best, or at least
better, when the learning experience stimulates multiple senses.
System 10 uses this understanding to provide learning experiences
that stimulate multiple senses of a user.
[0140] With reference to the Battle Road example mentioned above, a
user that experiences Battle Road on treadmill 12a is more likely
to remember that experience, including what he or she learned, than
if the user simply read or heard about the events associated with
Battle Road. More specifically, Battle Road is simulated on
treadmill 12a by adjusting the operating parameters of treadmill
12a (e.g., incline/decline and tilt of treadbase 26) and presenting
images and audible data relating to Battle Road. Thus, as a user
experiences the simulation of Battle Road, the user experiences the
sensation of walking over the terrain, seeing images of the terrain
and landmarks, and hearing information about Battle Road and
related events.
[0141] In addition to providing fitness educational relating to
historical sites and events, such as Battle Road and the Battles of
Lexington and Concord, the exercise programming of system 10 can
also provide fitness educational relating to other topics, such as
geography, animal science, music, and math, for example. For
instance, the exercise programming may simulate an African safari
experience by adjusting the operating parameters of treadmill 12a
to mimic the terrain of African while presenting display and audio
programming relating to thereto. For instance, the display
programming may display images of the terrain being traversed along
with images of the wild life that is found in the simulated area.
The audio programming may provide information about the displayed
wild life, its habitat, and the like.
[0142] With reference to FIG. 11, a fitness educational experience
provided by system 10 will be discussed. Once the exercise
programming is selected or created as discussed above, the exercise
programming is initiated on treadmill 12a, as indicated at 210.
Continuing with the Battle Road example, when the exercise
programming is initiated, the control signals begin to control the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a to simulate the topography of
Battle Road, as indicated at 212. At the same time, the display
programming and audio programming is presented to the user via
display 152 and speakers 156, as indicated at 214, 216,
respectively. The display programming may include images (e.g.,
photos, videos, drawings, paintings, etc.) of Battle Road. The
audio programming may include audible information about Battle
Road, its history, geographic location and characteristics, and the
like.
[0143] As shown at 218 in FIG. 11, educational information is
presented during the educational experience. At least part of the
simulated terrain, the audio programming, or the display
programming includes or is considered to be educational
information. Educational information can include information
presented in physical form, verbal/audible form, or visual form.
For instance, the control signals may adjust the incline, tilt, or
speed of treadbase 26 to provide physical information to the user
about characteristics of the terrain being simulated, heights of
geographic features, the speed of objects, people, or animals, and
the like. The educational information provided in visual form may
include still or moving images, drawings, paintings, and the like
depicting the simulated terrain, displayed location or objects, or
other information.
[0144] The educational information, and particularly the
information provided in visual or audio form, may be stored or
generated by communication system 14, one or more third parties 20,
or the user of system 10. For instance, the operator of
communication system 14 may generate audio programming relating to
various historic sites that may be incorporated into the exercise
programming.
[0145] In addition, or as an alternative to using educational
information available from system 14, one or more third parties 20,
or computer 16, the user of system 10 may create his own
educational information for inclusion in the audio or visual
programming. For instance, as depicted in FIG. 11A, the user may
take notes during a class or while studying. The notes may be
handwritten (220) or typed on a computer (222). The user may also
make an audio recording of himself or others that includes
educational information. These recordings may also be considers
notes. The user may then communicate the notes to system 10, as
shown in FIG. 11A. For instance, handwritten notes may be scanned
and electronically communicated to system 10 by uploading or
emailing the scanned notes to communication system 14, personal
computer 16, or treadmill 12a. Likewise, electronic notes (e.g.,
notes taken on a computer, or sound recordings) may be uploaded or
emailed to communication system 14, personal computer 16, or
treadmill 12a.
[0146] Once the notes have been submitted, as indicated at 224,
system 10 may incorporate the notes into the display or audio
programming so that they are presented, either in visual or audio
form, to the user during a fitness educational experience. For
instance, the display programming may display the notes on display
152 or the audio programming may play the recordings on speakers
156. Furthermore, system 10 may also convert the user's written or
typed notes into a sound recording that is presented on speakers
156 so that system 10 "reads" the user's notes to the user.
Conversely, system 10 may convert the user's sound recordings into
text that may be displayed on display 152 so that the user can read
the notes.
[0147] The display and audio programming may present the notes to
the user in their complete form. For instance, the display
programming may display complete pages of the written or typed
notes. Likewise, the audio programming may play the entire audio
recording. Alternatively, system 10 may present only portions of
the notes to the user. For instance, the display programming may
display individual lines or sections from the notes. By way of
example, the display programming may display a section heading and
a bullet point listed under the section heading. Alternatively, the
display programming may simply display one or two lines from
anywhere in the notes. Accordingly, the display programming may
display information to the user in such a way as to convey to the
user the context of the information, or the display programming may
display the information without providing the user with any context
for the information.
[0148] The display and audio programming may also manipulate the
notes so that the user will be able to more readily see or hear the
notes. For instance, the display programming may increase the size
of the notes when they are displayed on display 152 so that the
user may be able to easily read the notes. Similarly, the audio
programming may adjust the volume of the recordings so that the
user may easily hear the recordings when they are presented on
speakers 156.
[0149] In addition to providing educational information, the
exercise programming may present questions to the user, as
indicated in FIG. 11 at 226. The questions may be presented in
verbal form or the questions may be displayed on display 152.
Typically, but not necessarily, the questions relate to the
simulated terrain, the displayed information, or the verbally
presented information. The presentation of questions to the user
encourages the user to pay closer attention to the exercise
programming, including the educational information provided.
[0150] When a question is presented to a user, the user may respond
to answer the question, as indicated at 228. For instance, the user
may input his or her answer using one or more of the input devices
on control panel 22. The user may also respond verbally to answer
the questions. For instance, after presenting information about
Battle Road, the exercise programming may present to the user the
question, "Who travelled along Battle Road into Lexington on the
morning of Apr. 19, 1775?" The user may then be given several
possible answer choices, such as: A) Massachusetts militiamen; B)
Paul Revere; C) British Regulars; or D) George Washington. The user
may input his or her answer by pressing a button on control panel
22 or the user may speak his or her answer. If the user speaks the
answer, the verbal response can be detected and recorded in a
manner similar to the verbal commands described above.
[0151] Once the user has answered a question, the exercise
programming can indicate to the user, via an audible or visual
response (e.g., a verbal or visually displayed "That is correct"),
whether the answer was correct. In addition to providing an
indication regarding the correctness of the answer, exercise system
10 can also alter the exercise programming or fitness educational
experience based on the user's responses, as indicated at 230. For
instance, if the user answers several questions correctly or
incorrectly, system 10 may adjust the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a to increase or decrease the difficulty level of the
exercise, the level of information provided, or the difficulty of
the questions presented.
[0152] Similarly, the fitness educational experience may require
the user to select different options during the experience. For
instance, as the user travels along a simulated route, the user may
be required to decide whether to turn left or right at a displayed
intersection. The user may select the desired option by activating
one of the input devices on control panel 22 or speaking the
desired option. The voice response system can convert the audible
response into a control signal or executable instruction that
causes the exercise programming to follow the selected option. By
allowing the user to select various options, the user is able to
explore areas, subjects, and the like that are of particular
interest to the user.
[0153] As a result of the dynamic nature of the exercise
programming, a user may have an enhanced learning experience using
system 10. That is, because system 10 responds to the user's
answers and selections during the fitness educational experience,
the user is able to learn a variety of information through several
sensory stimuli, which will assist the user in retaining the
learned information.
[0154] As indicated at 232, during or upon completion of one or
more fitness educational experiences, the user may be awarded. For
instance, upon completion of a particular educational experience or
a portion thereof, the user may be awarded a 3D tour of, for
example, one of the places relating to the fitness educational
experience. The user may also be awarded credit and a grade for
completion of the fitness educational experience if the fitness
educational experience is an assignment for a class. The user may
also receive a digital award for completion of all or part of a
fitness educational experience. For instance, the user may have a
digital "passport" that is "stamped" each time the user completes
an educational experience. Furthermore, the user may be awarded
other prizes for completion of educational experiences. For
instance, once a user completes an educational experience based on
locations on all seven continents, the user may win a trophy, trip,
or other prize.
[0155] As depicted in FIG. 12, the exercise programming can also be
theme based. The various themes may be based on educational
subjects (e.g., history, geography, etc.) as mentioned above. Other
themes may include comedy, tragedy, somber, serious, religious,
patriotic, fast or slow paced, etc. One or more of the control
signals, the display programming, or the audio programming may be
selected or altered based on the theme of the exercise
programming.
[0156] For instance, two educational fitness experiences that
simulate the same tour through Washington D.C. may have different
themes. One of the Washington D.C. educational fitness experiences
may have a patriotic theme that is designed to foster a sense of
patriotism and love of country in the user. Such an educational
fitness experience may include patriotic music and may be narrated
by a well-know statesmen or politician. The other Washington D.C.
educational fitness experience may have a comedic theme. This
educational fitness experience may be narrated by a comedian who
presents the educational information in a light-hearted or funny
manner. The comedian may also point out or identify humorous things
that are displayed in the display programming.
[0157] The exercise programming may also be arranged around a
specific type of workout or specific workout goals the user may
have rather than, or in combination with, being based around a
specific location, topic, or theme. For instance, exercise
programming routines may be defined by intensity level, calories
burned, distance travelled, elevation change, heart rate, exercise
time, and the like. The user may select one or more of these
parameters and system 10 may provide exercise programming that
meets the selected criteria.
[0158] By way of example, the user may select an exercise time of
thirty minutes and system 10 will provide a thirty minute exercise
programming routine. The exercise programming may include different
segments during which the control signals, display programming,
and/or audio programming simulate and/or present information
relating to different real world locations, topics, and the like.
The different segments may be based on time, intensity, speed,
incline, or other criteria. This type of exercise programming may
be preprogrammed or preset, or system 10 may randomly select
control signals, display programming, or audio programming that
will allow the user to achieve a desired goal.
[0159] As depicted in FIG. 13, for instance, the exercise
programming may include a warm-up segment, a conditioning segment,
and a cool-down segment. As is understood, each of these segments
may include one or more sub-segments. For instance, FIG. 13A
illustrates display 152 showing exemplary profiles for various
segments and sub-segments of exercising programming. As can be seen
in FIG. 13, the exercise programming may have a specified time
duration, incline profile, and speed profile. As is understood by
one skilled in the art, the incline and speed profiles may be
depicted in a form similar to a bar chart, with the width of each
bar indicated a segment/sub-segment time duration and the height of
each bar indicating a degree of incline or speed.
[0160] With continued attention to both FIGS. 13 and 13A, exemplary
segments of the exercise programming will be discussed. During the
warm-up segment, for instance, the control signals adjust the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a to low intensity levels. For
instance, the speed of belt 42 may be relatively slow and the
incline of treadbase 26 may be relatively level, as indicated by
the height of the bars depicted in the warm-up segments in FIG.
13A. In connection with the low intensity operating parameters, the
display programming may display in display portion 152a terrain
that corresponds with the operating parameters of treadmill 12a.
For instance, since treadbase 26 is relatively level, the display
programming may display level terrain, such as a beach or level
road or trail. The audio programming may provide an introduction to
the workout routine as well as information about the location being
simulated and displayed or other educational information.
[0161] Toward the end of the warm-up segment, the display and/or
audio programming may provide the user with an indication that the
conditioning segment is about to begin. During the conditioning
segment, the control signals adjust the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a to medium or high intensity levels, as indicated by
the height of the bars depicted in the conditioning segments in
FIG. 13A. For instance, the speed of belt 42 may be increased and
treadbase 26 may be inclined or declined. The display programming
in display portion 152a may change as the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a change. For instance, the display programming may
display terrain that corresponds with the operating parameters of
treadmill 12a, such as roads, hills, or trails that have similar
grades to the incline of treadbase 26.
[0162] The terrain displayed during the conditioning segment may or
may not relate to the display programming of the warm-up segment.
For instance, the display programming may display a beach during
the warm-up segment and a trail through Yellowstone National Park
during the conditioning segment. Similarly, the conditioning
segment may include display programming that displays multiple
locations that are remote from one another so that the display
programming corresponds to the simulated terrain. Like during the
warm-up segment, the audio programming may provide information
about the location being simulated and displayed or other
educational information. Additionally, the audio programming may
also indicate to the user that the simulated and displayed real
world location has or is about to change. For instance, when the
simulated and displayed real world location changes from a beach to
Yellowstone National Park, the audio programming may play a message
telling the user what the new location is, where it is located, or
other information about it.
[0163] The display and/or audio programming during or near the end
of the conditioning segment may provide the user with an indication
that terrain being simulated and displayed is going to change. For
instance, the audio programming may indicate to the user that the
intensity level is about to be decreased or that the cool-down
segment is about to begin.
[0164] During the cool-down segment, the control signals adjust the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a back to low intensity levels,
as indicated by the height of the bars depicted in the conditioning
segments in FIG. 13A. For instance, the speed of belt 42 and the
incline of treadbase 26 may be decreased. As with the warm-up
segment, the display programming during the cool-down segment may
display relatively level terrain. The audio programming may provide
a summary of the workout or the educational information presented
during the workout as well as information about the location being
simulated and displayed or other educational information.
[0165] As discussed herein, the exercise programming may include
multiple segments that simulate the terrain and present display and
audio programming relating to multiple distinct or remote locations
regardless of whether the locations are related to one another in
any way. For instance, the exercise profile illustrated in FIG. 13A
may relate to several real world locations. More specifically, the
exercise programming of FIG. 13A may simulate and display images of
or relating to multiple remote locations throughout the world. For
instance, the warm-up segments may simulate a walk along a specific
beach while display portion 152a displays images of the particular
simulated beach. When the conditioning segment begins, the exercise
programming may simulate other real world locations, including
mountain hikes, historic tours, and the like. As noted, the
transition between simulations of different real world locations
may be accompanied by audio programming relating to the change.
[0166] Additionally, system 10 may provide exercise programming
segments on demand. For instance, a user may adjust the operating
parameters of treadmill 12a as discussed herein. In response to
these adjustments and as shown in FIG. 13B, system 10 may provide
display programming and audio programming that correspond to the
selected operating parameters. By way of example, a user may adjust
the incline of treadbase 26 to desired grade. In response,
communication system 14 may access display programming relating to
a real world location that has similar terrain or topography to the
incline of treadbase 26. As discussed herein, communication system
14 may have display programming stored locally or may obtain the
display programming from one or more third parties 20. Personal
computer 16 or treadmill 12a may also provide the display
programming. System 10 may also provide audio programming that
relates to the displayed terrain or other education
information.
[0167] As noted, the audio programming discussed herein may include
music. The music may relate to the other aspects of the exercise
programming. For instance, the lyrics of a song may relate to the
location or historical events being simulated or displayed by
treadmill 12a. The music may also be selected based upon certain
musical characteristics, such as tempo, rhythm, beats per minute,
and the like.
[0168] By way of example, system 10 may select specific music to
correspond to specific segments of a workout based on the
characteristics of the music and the workout. For instance, system
10 may select music having a relatively slow tempo when the
operating parameters of treadmill 12a are of relatively low
intensity or when the simulated terrain is relatively level. When
the operating parameters change to a higher intensity or the
simulated terrain is more varied, system 10 may select music having
a more upbeat tempo. Conversely, system 10 may simulate terrain or
adjust other operating parameters of treadmill 12a based on
characteristics of music selected by the user. For instance, if a
user selects music with an upbeat tempo, system 10 may simulate
terrain that is steep or increase the speed belt 42.
[0169] System 10 may also select music having specific
characteristics in order to teach the user about music. For
instance, the audio programming may present a song having a certain
number of beats per minute. The audio programming may also include
the voice of an instructor that describes the characteristics of
the music.
[0170] The music used in the exercise programming may be stored by
communication system 14, third parties, 20, personal computer 16,
or treadmill 12a. Examples of third parties 20 that may store music
for incorporation in the exercise programming include, but are not
limited to, the ITUNES and PANDORA databases. Additionally,
treadmill 12a or personal computer 16 may be selectively connected,
via a wired or wireless connection, to a user's portable music
device, such as an MP3 player. As a result, system 10 may select
music from any number of sources, including the user's own music
library, for inclusion in the exercise programming.
[0171] The exercise programming may also adjust the presentation of
various parts or aspects of the display or audio programming during
an exercise routine. For instance, the exercise programming may
increase or decrease the volume of certain portions of the audio
programming during certain portions of an exercise routine. By way
of example, during a fitness educational experience, the audio
programming may include both music (whether selected by system 10
or the user) and narration. The exercise programming may decrease
the volume of the music when the narrative is provided and then
increase the volume of the music when the narrative is over. Thus,
for example, a user may select a certain selection of songs to play
at a certain volume during a fitness educational experience.
However, when a narrative portion of the audio programming is
presented (such as to explain what is being seen in the display
programming), the exercise programming may decrease the volume of
the music so that the user can hear the narrative portion of the
audio programming. Once the narrative portion is complete, the
exercise programming may increase the volume of the music.
INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
[0172] In general, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to
exercise systems that enable a user to have an interactive exercise
experience. The system may include an exercise device with one or
more selectively adjustable operating parameters. The adjustable
operating parameters allow the exercise device to simulate
real-world terrain in an automatic and/or dynamic manner. For
instance, a treadmill may have one or more adjustable incline
mechanisms for allowing the treadmill to simulate a descent down a
hill, an ascent up a hill, or traversing across a hill. In addition
to simulating real-world terrain, the exercise device may also
present display and audio programming to the user. The display
programming may include visual representations of the real-world
terrain that is simulated. The audio programming may include music
or other audible sounds, including narrations. The combination of
the simulated terrain and the display programming creates a more
realistic virtual experience for the user of the exercise
device.
[0173] While exercise systems have attempted to create virtual
experiences for users, user interaction with such exercise systems
has generally been limited. For instance, such systems typically
allow the user to perform an exercise, view images on a screen, and
listen to music (typically provided by a music player that is
separate from the exercise device).
[0174] Embodiments of the present disclosure allow a more
interactive experience in a number of ways. For instance, in
addition to simulating a real-world environment, the exercise
system allows the user to perform multiple tasks at once. In
addition to exercising, the exercise system may allow the user to
perform such tasks as browsing the Internet, reading or sending
emails, dictating messages or documents, and the like. These
additional multi-task functions may be performed entirely, or at
least partially, with verbal commands. For instance, the exercise
device may be equipped with a microphone and voice recognition
software for receiving and processing verbal commands. Thus, the
user of the present system may be able to remain intellectually
stimulated or complete other tasks while exercising.
[0175] In addition to being able to perform multiple tasks with
verbal commands, the operating parameters of the exercise device
may be adjusted using verbal commands. Using verbal commands to
adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device eliminates
the need for the user to try and press buttons, turn knobs, or flip
switches while exercising. This can be particularly beneficial when
the user is exercising at a high rate, such as running Verbal
commands may be used to adjust such operating parameters of an
exercise device as speed, incline, tilt, resistance, and the
like.
[0176] To provide an even more interactive experience, some
embodiments provide fitness educational experiences. Fitness
educational experiences allow a user to experience a real world
location through the simulation of the terrain and display of
images of the real world location. In addition, the fitness
educational experiences provide educational information to the user
while the user is experiencing the real world location. The
educational information can include such things as narrations
regarding the real world location, historical events, plant and
animal life, and the like.
[0177] The fitness educational experiences also allow a user to be
questioned regarding the educational information that is provided.
The user may provide responses to the questions through physical
input devices or through verbal responses. Furthermore, a user may
interact with the fitness educational experience by selecting
various available options. For instance, the user may select which
direction to go when the display programming displays a fork in the
road. Thus, through the fitness educational experiences, the user
is able to interact with the exercise system by doing more than
just exercising or watching a monitor. As a result of this high
level of interaction, the user is able to learn at a higher level
than if the learning was done independently.
[0178] Although embodiments of the invention have been described in
the context of either a motorized treadmill or a stationary
exercise cycle, it is understood that the invention is not limited
to any particular type of exercise device. Accordingly, the term
"exercise device" shall refer broadly to any type of device that
takes the form of an exercise machine, including, but not limited
to, treadmills, exercise cycles, Nordic style ski exercise devices,
rowers, steppers, hikers, climbers, and elliptical or striding
exercise devices.
* * * * *
References