U.S. patent application number 13/216489 was filed with the patent office on 2013-02-28 for fitness equipment subscription system.
This patent application is currently assigned to PRECOR INCORPORATED. The applicant listed for this patent is Robert James Barker. Invention is credited to Robert James Barker.
Application Number | 20130053218 13/216489 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46229201 |
Filed Date | 2013-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130053218 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barker; Robert James |
February 28, 2013 |
FITNESS EQUIPMENT SUBSCRIPTION SYSTEM
Abstract
A method and apparatus receive an identification of a user at a
fitness equipment unit, retrieve a current subscription plan for
the user based upon the identification and make features for the
fitness equipment unit in the current subscription plan of the user
available for use by the user on the fitness equipment unit.
Inventors: |
Barker; Robert James; (UP
Nately, GB) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Barker; Robert James |
UP Nately |
|
GB |
|
|
Assignee: |
PRECOR INCORPORATED
Woodinville
WA
|
Family ID: |
46229201 |
Appl. No.: |
13/216489 |
Filed: |
August 24, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G16H 20/30 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/4 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00 |
Claims
1. A fitness equipment subscription system comprising: a fitness
equipment unit operable in one a base mode with one or more
selectable optional supplemental features; one or more inputs
associated with the fitness equipment unit that receives input
identifying a user using the fitness equipment unit; and a
controller in communication with the input and the fitness
equipment unit, wherein the controller is configured to make
available the one or more optional features based upon the identity
of the user and a subscription plan associated with the user.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the subscription plan is
purchased by the user.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the fitness pivot unit includes a
display and wherein the controller generates control signals
causing the one or more selectable features to be presented on the
display.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the controller is configured to
present a paid subscription status of the user that identifies
purchases of optional supplemental features.
5. The system of claim 4, wherein the controller is configured to
cause the display to present offers for additional supplemental
features not currently in the subscription plan of the user.
6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more inputs are
configured to receive payment authorization from the user for the
purchase of additional supplemental features.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the base mode is a first set of
one or more exercise motions and wherein the one or more optional
supplemental features comprises a second set of one or more
exercise paths of motion.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the fitness equipment unit
includes a display, wherein the base mode comprises a first set of
visual presentations on the display and wherein the one or more
optional supplemental features comprise a second set of visual
presentations on the display.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one input is
configured to receive a selection of a feature contained in the
subscription plan of the user.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is in
communication with a second fitness equipment unit operable in the
base mode and the one or more selectable optional supplemental
features and a second input associated with the second fitness
equipment unit, the controller further being configured to make
available the one or more optional features on the second fitness
equipment unit based upon an identity of a second user and a second
subscription plan associated with the second user.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the controller is in
communication with a second fitness equipment unit operable in a
second base mode different than the first base mode and one or more
second selectable optional supplemental features and a second input
associated with the second fitness equipment unit, the controller
further being configured to make available the one or more second
optional features on the second s fitness equipment unit based upon
an identity of a second user and a second subscription plan
associated with the second user.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more optional
features comprises forwarding at least a media resumption point
from the fitness equipment unit to an external media player.
13. A method comprising: receiving an identification of a user at a
fitness equipment unit; retrieving a current subscription plan for
the user based upon the identification; making features for the
fitness equipment unit in the current subscription plan of the user
available for use by the user on the fitness equipment unit.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the current subscription plan
is retrieved from a database of a plurality of subscription plans
for a plurality of potential users of the fitness equipment
unit.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the subscription plan comprises
features for a plurality of different fitness equipment units for
each of the plurality of potential users.
16. The method of claim 13 further comprising: making features in
the current subscription plan available for selection by the user
at the fitness equipment unit; and receiving a selection of one or
more of the features in the current description plan for the user;
and controlling the fitness equipment unit to use the one or more
features based on the selection.
17. The method of claim 13 further comprising receiving at the
fitness equipment unit from the user selections of one or more
features to add to the current subscription plan for the user.
18. The method of claim 17 comprising receiving at the fitness
equipment unit from the user payment for the one or more features
to add to the current subscription plan for the user.
19. The method of claim 13, wherein the base mode is a first set of
one or more exercise motions and wherein the one or more optional
supplemental features comprises a second set of one or more
exercise paths of motion.
20. The method of claim 13, wherein the fitness equipment unit
includes a display, wherein the base mode comprises a first set of
visual presentations on the display and wherein the one or more
optional supplemental features comprise a second set of visual
presentations on the display.
21. The method of claim 13, further comprising presenting offers
for an optional purchase of additional supplemental features not
currently in the subscription plan of the user on a display
associated with the fitness equipment unit.
22. The method of claim 13, wherein the current subscription plan
includes a first feature having a first use quantity and a second
feature having a second use quantity different than the first use
quantity.
23. A method comprising: receiving an identification of a user at a
fitness equipment unit; retrieved a current subscription plan for
the user based upon the received identification of the user at the
fitness equipment unit from a database of a plurality of
subscription plans for a plurality of potential users of the
fitness equipment unit; making features for the fitness equipment
unit in the current subscription plan of the user available for use
by the user on the fitness equipment.
24. A fitness equipment subscription system comprising: a fitness
equipment unit operable in a base mode with one or more selectable
optional supplemental features; one or more inputs associated with
the fitness equipment unit that receives input identifying a user
using the fitness equipment unit; and a controller in communication
with the input and the fitness equipment unit, wherein the
controller is configured to limit use of the fitness equipment unit
based on a subscription plan associated with the user.
25. The system of claim 24, wherein the subscription plan
associated with the user identifies a quantity of use of the
fitness equipment unit available to the user.
26. The system of claim 24, wherein the subscription plan
associated with user identifies a universal time period available
to the user for using the fitness equipment unit.
Description
BACKGROUND
[0001] In health and fitness facilities, members are often given
the same service offer for using the facilities and equipment. In
other words, all members are provided with the same access to the
same features on the various fitness equipment in the facility. As
a result, such health and fitness facilities cannot economically
offer services to satisfy both (1) members on a budget with low
experience demands and (2) more affluent members with high
experience demands.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0002] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of a fitness equipment
subscription system according to an example embodiment.
[0003] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an example visual presentation of a
current subscription plan and upgrade offer of the system of FIG.
1.
[0004] FIG. 3 is a plan view of another example visual presentation
of a current subscription plan and upgrade offer of the system of
FIG. 1.
[0005] FIG. 4 is a top left perspective view of a fitness equipment
unit according to an example embodiment with portions schematically
shown.
[0006] FIG. 4A is a top right perspective view of the fitness
equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0007] FIG. 5 is another top perspective view of a portion of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 17.
[0008] FIG. 6 is another top perspective view of a portion of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0009] FIG. 7 is another top perspective view of a portion of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0010] FIG. 8 is a right side elevational view of the fitness
equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0011] FIG. 9 is a partial rear elevational view of a portion of
the fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0012] FIG. 10 is a rear elevational view of a portion of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 17.
[0013] FIG. 11A is a diagram illustrating flexible elements of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4 at one step height setting.
[0014] FIG. 11B is a diagram illustrating flexible elements of the
fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4 at another step height
setting.
[0015] FIG. 12 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of
the fitness equipment unit of FIG. 4.
[0016] FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of the fitness equipment
unit of FIG. 4 with portions omitted for purposes of
illustration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0017] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates fitness equipment
subscription system 20 according to an example embodiment. Fitness
equipment subscription system 20 is configured to provide different
access to or different features for an exercise machine or fitness
equipment unit to different users or members at a gym or fitness
facility depending upon the individual member's subscription plan.
Fitness equipment subscription system 20 enables those members on a
budget to subscribe to lower-cost subscription options while also
enabling more affluent members, or members who desire more options,
to subscribe to higher-cost subscription options with a greater
number of features. As a result, gyms, health clubs or other
fitness facilities may customize their offerings to accommodate a
wide range of needs and budgets.
[0018] Fitness equipment subscription system 20 comprises exercise
machines or fitness equipment units 22A, 22B (collectively referred
to as fitness equipment units 22), remote subscription manager 24
and remote subscription monitor 26. Each of fitness equipment units
22 comprises an individual fitness or exercise machine or piece of
equipment configured to receive and resist force from a person
exercising. Examples of fitness equipment units include, but are
not limited to, elliptical machines, stair steppers or climbers,
treadmills, adaptive motion machines, rowing machines, bench press
machines, upright and recumbent cycles, cross trainers, strength
training equipment and the like. In the example illustrated,
fitness equipment units 22A and 22B comprise different types of
fitness equipment units configured to exercise different muscles of
a person. For example, in one embodiment, fitness unit 22A may
comprise an adaptive motion machine while fitness equipment unit
22B comprises one of elliptical machine, a treadmill or other
exercise equipment.
[0019] In another embodiment, fitness equipment units 22A and 22B
may both comprise the same type of fitness equipment unit
configured exercise generally the same muscles of a person
exercising, but where fitness equipment units 22A and 22B are made
by different manufacturers, have different available features, are
different models, are of a different age or usage, or are at
different locations within the same exercise facility (e.g., one of
fitness equipment units 22 being located next to a window, a
refreshment stand or a certain piece of exercise equipment while
the other of fitness equipment units 22 being located next to a
locker room, a water cooler or other amenity). According to one
embodiment, fitness equipment units 22A and 22B are both located at
the same fitness facility. In other embodiments, fitness community
22A and 22B may be located at distinct locations, such as distinct
fitness facilities.
[0020] Each of fitness equipment units 22 comprise one or more
force receiving members 30, display 32, identity input 34, selector
input 36, payment input 38, control instructions 40, subscription
database 42 and a controller 44. Force receiving members 30
comprise movable members or structures configured to be contacted
by an anatomy of a person exercising and to receive force from the
anatomy, wherein the force receiving members may, in turn, exert a
resistance against movement and against the force received from the
anatomy of the person exercising. Examples of force receiving
members 30, include, but are not limited to, foot pedals or foot
supports in an elliptical machine, an adaptive motion machine or
rowing machine; a belt of a treadmill; or a handle or grip of an
elliptical, and adaptive motion machine, rowing machine other
device which exercise the upper body of a person exercising.
[0021] As schematically illustrated in FIG. 1, in the example
illustrated, each of force receiving members 30 is movable through
one of a plurality of possible different paths or different ranges
of movement or motion. For example, in one embodiment wherein one
or both of fitness equipment units 22 comprise an adaptive motion
machine, force receiving members 30 may be selectively movable
through a more vertical path P1 (similar to stair stepping), a more
horizontal path P2 (similar to an elliptical machine, strider or
step machine) and a hybrid path P3. In each of such paths P1-P3,
one of the movable members 30 may have the same X coordinate
position in space but a different Y or Z coordinate position in
space, or vice versa. In other embodiments, force receiving members
30 may not offer different selectable paths or ranges of
motion.
[0022] Display 32 comprises a monitor, screen or other device
configured to present visual information to a user of the
associated fitness community 22 while the user is exercising. For
example, display 32 may comprise an LCD screen. In another
embodiment, display 32 may comprise an array or series of
individual lights or light emitting diodes that are selectively
illuminated to provide visual information. In one embodiment,
display 32 may be a part of a touch screen which may also serve as
one or more of identity input 34, selector input 36 or payment
input 38.
[0023] In one embodiment, display 32 is fixedly mounted to a frame
of the associated fitness equipment unit and supported such that a
person may view display 32 when exercising. In yet another
embodiment, display 32 may be provided by a portable device which
is removably connectable to the associated fitness equipment unit
22. For example, display 32 may be provided by a hand held personal
data device such as a personal digital assistance (PDA), portable
media player (such as an IPOD), MP3 player or similar portable
device having a display which is connected to controller 44 via a
plug-in or port or wirelessly, wherein the portable device is
supported by the frame during such exercise or is held by the user
exercising.
[0024] Identity input 34 comprises a device (and associated
firmware and software) associated with fitness equipment unit 22
that is configured to receive input identifying a particular human
user using fitness equipment unit 22. In one embodiment, input 34
may be associated with fitness equipment unit 22 by being directly
connected to, mounted upon or provided as part of fitness equipment
unit 22A and 22B. In another embodiment, input 34 may be associated
with fitness equipment unit 22A or 22B by being located within a
particular area or region of a facility containing the associated
fitness equipment unit 22. For example, input 24 may be provided on
a wall proximate to the associated fitness equipment unit 22.
[0025] According to one embodiment, input 34 comprises a user
interaction device that actively requests, prompts or receives
input directly from the person using the associated fitness of unit
22. In such embodiments, input 34 may comprise a keyboard or
keypad, a touch screen, a microphone with a computing device having
associated voice or speech recognition software, a card reader or a
biometric sensing device, wherein the person using fitness
equipment unit 34 enters his or her identification information
either manually, audibly or by positioning a card (magnetic or
electronic) in a card reader or by positioning his or her anatomy
with respect to the biometric sensing device.
[0026] In yet other embodiments, input 34 may comprise a passive
person identification device which identifies a person using the
associated fitness equipment unit 22 without any active
participation or specific actions on part of the person using
fitness equipment unit 22. For example, input 34 may comprise a
camera or other image capturing device and a computing device
having associated face recognition software. Input 34 may comprise
a sensing device that senses a security or identification token,
sometimes referred to as a key fob, assigned or designated to the
particular user or person and located within a predetermined
proximity to the sensing device, such as when the person is seated
upon a portion of the fitness equipment unit or is using the
fitness equipment unit. In some embodiments, such identification
tokens may rely on radio frequency identification tags and
transponders. Overall, input device 34 provides controller 44 with
the identity of the particular person using or about to use the
associated fitness equipment unit 22.
[0027] Selector input 36 comprises a device or mechanism by which a
person exercising may enter or input selections to controller 44.
In particular, selector input 36 is configured such that a person
may choose or select one or more optional features for use during
exercise with the associated fitness equipment unit 22, depending
upon the person's subscription plan. In some embodiments, selector
input 36 may also be configured to allow a person exercising to
upgrade his or her subscription plan while at the associated
fitness equipment unit 22. Examples of selector input 36 include,
but are not limited to, components of a touch screen incorporated
as part of display 32 or another display, a touchpad, a mouse,
stylus, a microphone with speech recognition software, keyboard or
keypad.
[0028] Payment input 38 comprises a device or mechanism located at
each of fitness community 22A and 22B by which a person may
authorize or remit payment when subscribing to a new or different
subscription plan or when upgrading the current subscription plan.
In one embodiment, payment input 38 may comprise a sensing device
(and associated firmware and software) that senses a payment
authorization token, sometimes referred to as a key fob, assigned
or designated to the particular user or person and located within a
predetermined proximity to the sensing device, such as when the
person is seated upon a portion of the fitness equipment unit or is
using the fitness equipment unit. In some embodiments, such payment
authorization tokens may rely on radio frequency identification
tags and transponders. In another embodiment, payment input 38 may
comprise a card reader, such as a magnetic card reader (configured
to read a swiped credit card, debit card, membership card or the
like). In yet other embodiments, payment input 38 may comprise the
keyboard, keypad or other input device (and associated firmware and
software) that allows the person enter his or her credit card
information authorizing payment. As such, in some embodiments,
payment input 38 may be provided as part of one or more of display
32, identification input 34 and/or selector input 36. In some
embodiments, payment input 38 may be omitted and not included as
part of a fitness equipment unit.
[0029] Payment through payment input 38 or other means outside of
payment input 38 may be in the form of any of multiple
"currencies". Payment may be the remission of "currency" comprising
monetary forms, i.e. US dollars etc. Payment may also comprise the
expenditure or redemption of non-monetary forms of "currency" or
credit such as reward points. In one embodiment, such as reward
points may be awarded to persons or earned by persons in one of
multiple avenues. For example, a person may be awarded points or
credit that may be redeemed for the purchase of a subscription plan
as part of a promotion such as when a person first signs up for a
program or joins a fitness facility. A person may be awarded points
or credit when a person makes a voluntary contribution to a charity
or food drive through the fitness or health club. These are but a
few examples of promotions by which such credits or points may be
awarded.
[0030] A person may earn such points or credit from a fitness
facility or health club based upon health or fitness related
standards or goals being satisfied or met by the person or a group
of persons. For example, a person may be rewarded with points or
credit based upon the the person or group of persons attendance
record at the fitness facility or based upon the number of hours
spent by the person or group of persons at the fitness facility or
spent by the person or group of persons on a particular exercise
machine or a particular exercise regimen. A person may be rewarded
with points or credit based upon a person or group of persons
satisfying a particular fitness goal or objective such as a target
heart rate, a number of miles, or other fitness or health metrics.
Such rewards may be awarded by a fitness facility or larger health
club, wherein an outside third party pays the fitness facility for
such rewarded credit or points. For example, a health insurance
company may partner with a fitness facility to reward a person's or
a group of person's attendance or fitness achievements.
[0031] Control instructions 40 comprise instructions or control
logic embodied as firmware or software in one or more memory
structures. Control instructions 40 provide instructions for
controller 44. Control instructions 40 comprise different blocks,
modules or sets of control programming or routines for the
operation of the associated fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B. In the
example illustrated, control instructions 40 comprises base mode
instructions 50 and optional or supplemental feature instructions
52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E (collectively referred to as supplemental
feature instructions 52).
[0032] Base mode instructions 50 comprise computer readable
programming or instructions for controller 44 so as to control the
operation of fitness equipment units 22 in a default or baseline
mode of operation. The baseline mode of operation is a minimum or
default operation characteristics for the particular fitness
equipment unit 22: the minimum number of paths or ranges of motion,
the minimum visual presentations to be presented on display 32 and
generally the minimum overall user experience. In one embodiment,
absent a subscription plan with any additional supplemental
features, controller 44 operates fitness equipment unit 22A or 22B
in the base mode. In another embodiment, a baseline subscription
plan may include the base mode of operation operating under base
mode 50 instructions but not any additional supplemental features
which would be provided by supplemental feature instructions
52.
[0033] Supplemental feature instructions 52 comprise computer
readable programming or instructions so as to control the operation
of fitness equipment units 22 with one or more additional
supplemental features. Such supplemental features may either
replace the base mode features with enhanced features or may add to
or build upon the features provided by the base mode of operation.
According to one embodiment, such supplemental features are
purchasable by the health fitness facility member or user as part
of a prescription plan upgrade. The supplemental features may
upgrade the operation of display 32, increasing the available
content or interactive features or the overall visual presentation
quantity presented by controller 44 on display 32 or may upgrade
the operation of force receiving members 30, providing a greater
range of motion, additional paths, additional or alternative
resistance options and the like.
[0034] Subscription database 42 comprises a database of current
subscription plans 54A, 54B, 54C, 54D, 54E (collectively referred
to as subscription plans 54) for different potential users of the
associated fitness equipment unit 22. In one embodiment,
subscription database 42 may additionally include a database of
different available subscription plans or features that may be
purchased along with their associated prices (schematically
represented by subscription plan 56). Each subscription plan may
include access to or make available the base mode and one or more
supplemental features as provided by base mode instruction 50 and
supplemental feature instructions 52 under the control of
controller 44.
[0035] In one embodiment, each subscription plan 54, 56 may
additionally include a pre-purchased quantity relating to the use
of fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B. For example, each subscription
plan 54, 56 may additionally include a prepurchased number of hours
that the subscriber may use a particular fitness equipment unit
22A, 22b. The hours quantity may be a total number of hours which
is gradually consumed by a subscriber during use of the fitness
pivot unit or may be a total number of hours during a predefined
time period (e.g., 5 hours per week; 15 hours per month; 5 hours
per calendar week; 15 hours per calendar year).
[0036] In another embodiment, the prepurchased quantity may be
defined in terms of a metric on the fitness equipment unit itself.
For example, each subscription plan 54, 56 may include a
prepurchased number of miles such as when the fitness equipment
unit 22A or 22B is a treadmill, elliptical machine or adaptive
motion machine. In another embodiment, the subscription plan 54, 56
may include a prepurchased number of pounds such as when the
fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B involves the listing of weights. In
yet other embodiments, the subscription plan 54, 56 may include a
pre-purchased quantity relating to wear of the fitness equipment
unit. In such a manner, the cost of prescription plan could be
directly tied to maintenance, repair or replacement of the fitness
equipment unit being used.
[0037] In yet another embodiment, the subscription plan 54, 56 may
include a pre-purchased or predefined universal time period or
range for which the particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B is
available for use. For example, the subscription plan may provide
user with access to the particular fitness equipment unit on
particular days of the week, such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday,
only on weekends, during particular hours of each day (8 AM to 11
AM), or during particular hours on selected days (8 AM to 11 AM on
Monday Wednesday and Friday, 2 PM to 3 PM on Saturday and 8 PM to
10 PM on Sunday). With such subscription plans 54, 56, prime times
or more busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B
may have a higher subscription price while less prime times or less
busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B may be
provided with a lower subscription price. As a result, available
time for use of a fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B may be allotted
at different prices to different users to accommodate different
budgets or price points for different users while the same time
maximizing income from the fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B.
[0038] Likewise, in facilities where identical fitness equipment
units are located at different locations within the facility,
subscription plans 54, 56 for each of the identical equipment units
may have different prices for an otherwise identical subscription
plan depending upon demand for a particular fitness equipment unit
at a particular location within the fitness facility (more
convenient versus less convenient location) or within close
proximity to a desired amenity (locker room, refreshment station or
other fitness equipment units).
[0039] Subscription database 42 is stored in a memory structure
embodied in fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B. In other embodiments
where similar subscription databases are maintained elsewhere, such
as subscription manager 24, subscription database 42 may be omitted
as part of the particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B. Although
each of the description database 42 is illustrated as including or
storing current subscription plans for six users, U1-U6,
subscription plans may be enlarged or reduced in size in other
embodiments.
[0040] Controller 44 comprise one or more processing units provided
as part of fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B configured to follow
instructions, contained in control instructions 40 and based in
part upon the current subscription plan for the current member
exercising on the particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B, to
control the operation of force receiving members 30 and display 32.
For purposes of this application, the term "processing unit" shall
mean a presently developed or future developed processing unit that
executes sequences of instructions contained in a memory. Execution
of the sequences of instructions causes the processing unit to
perform steps such as generating control signals. The instructions
may be loaded in a random access memory (RAM) for execution by the
processing unit from a read only memory (ROM), a mass storage
device, or some other persistent storage. In other embodiments,
hard wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with
software instructions to implement the functions described. For
example, controller 44 may be embodied as part of one or more
application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Unless otherwise
specifically noted, the controller is not limited to any specific
combination of hardware circuitry and software, nor to any
particular source for the instructions executed by the processing
unit.
[0041] In operation according to one embodiment, controller 44
awaits receipt of input or information from identification input 34
identifying a member of the fitness facility or person requesting
to use a particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B. Upon receipt
of the identification input, controller 44 accesses subscription
database 42 and retrieves the current or active subscription plan
54 associated with the particular user. In some embodiments, a
"user" may comprise an individual person. In other embodiments, a
"user" may comprise an organization or a collective group of
individuals who may have purchased a common subscription plan
together as a group possibly at a reduced price.
[0042] Once the appropriate subscription plan for the particular
user that was identified by the identifying input received from
identification input 34 has been retrieved by controller 44,
controller 44 generate control signals causing display 32 to
present a paid subscription status of the user that identifies
those features or options currently available in the current
subscription plan. Controller 44 follows by awaiting input from
selector input 36 identifying which of the available supplemental
features that the individual exercising wishes to use during the
exercise session. Upon receiving the individuals selection,
controller 44 accesses the associated control instructions 50
and/or 52 containing instructions 40. Controller 44 generate
control signals controlling one or both of display 32 and force
receiving members 30 based upon the selection.
[0043] FIG. 2 illustrates one example display presentation 60 that
may be presented by controller 44 on display 32 based upon the
identification of the person exercising and his or her current
subscription plan as retrieved from subscription database 42. As
shown by FIG. 2, presentation 60 identifies the current
subscription plan 62 for the particular fitness equipment unit 22A
or 22B at which the user is stationed. In the example illustrated,
the current subscription plan 62 includes current accessibility 66
(A), available parameters 68 (AP) and available video or visual
presentations 70 (AVP). The current accessibility 66 identifies any
limitations on the person's use of the particular fitness equipment
unit 22A, 22B, such as a quantity limitation Q (e.g., hours, days,
miles wear) or a universal time limitation T (particular days of
the week, such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday, only on weekends,
during particular hours of each day (8 AM to 11 AM), or during
particular hours on selected days (8 AM to 11 AM on Monday
Wednesday and Friday, 2 PM to 3 PM on Saturday and 8 PM to 10 PM on
Sunday)). In some embodiments, accessibility may not be limited or
may not be part of a subscription plan.
[0044] Available parameters (AP) 68 comprises various parameters
directly pertaining to the movement of force receiving members 30.
Available parameters 68 may include one or more optional or
selectable parameters (P1 to PN) such as one or more paths of
motion (such as with an adaptive motion machine) one or more ranges
of motion, and/or one or more ranges or levels of resistance
against the movement of force receiving members 30. In some
embodiments, the available parameters may not be a selectable
feature or may not be part of a subscription plan.
[0045] Available visual presentations (AVP) 70 comprise various
video content, video features or video quality choices (including
audio) (VP1 to VPN) for a person exercising. In one embodiment, the
current subscription plan for the person exercising may be provide
library of different content that the person exercising may choose
from during exercise. Examples of such content include, but are not
limited to, movies, television programming, music, or other audio
or visual content. Such content subscriptions may be individual
media choices or may comprise packages of multiple media choices.
For example, one subscription may just include major network
television stations whereas another subscription additionally
includes premium channels such as premium movie channels (HBO,
Showtime) or ESPN. In one embodiment, one subscription plan may
include Internet access or Internet surfing. In one embodiment, the
subscription plan for the person exercising may include different
levels of quality for content, such as high-definition, low
definition, three-dimensional and the like. In some embodiments,
the available visual presentation 70 in a subscription plan may
provide one or more interactive features such as games,
simulations, exercise challenges, exercise trainer assistance, or
inter or intra-facility exercise events or competitions, wherein
sensed movement of force receiving members 30 is utilized by
controller 44 as an input to the game, simulation, challenge,
trainer assistance or competition which is presented on display
32.
[0046] In one embodiment, the available visible presentation of a
particular subscription plan 54, 56 may comprise a portability
feature, wherein controller 44 (or controller 104) records the
point or location in the media presentation where the presentation
was interrupted or temporarily stopped (media resumption point)
such that when the person exercises on FEU 22A or on another
exercise device, such as FEU 22B, at a later time, the person or
display of the other exercise device or machine may automatically
resume the same media presentation at the same point. For example,
a subscription plan may allow a person to watch a movie on Monday
while exercising on a treadmill and to resume watching the same
movie from the exact point in the movie where the person left off
on Monday while exercising on an elliptical machine on Tuesday.
[0047] In one embodiment, the subscription plan may provide the
subscriber with the additional opportunity to have controller 44,
controller 104 or controller 144 forward the media with the media
resumption point (or just the media resumption point) to another
media controller or media display location as designated by the
subscriber, allowing the subscriber to resume watching the media at
the other media controller or media display location (at home, at
another location in the same home, building or facility in which
the exercise machine is located, on his or her portable media
player (IPHONE, IPAD, IPOD, personal data assistant, etc.)) at a
later time from the exact location in the media presentation where
he or she left off after finishing exercising. Such forwarding of
the media and media resumption point or just the media resumption
point may be achieved by transmission across the interne or across
a local area network (LAN), by the transferal to a portable memory
carried by the subscriber (i.e. a flash drive, thumb drive, memory
card or the like), or by direct transmission to a portable media
player temporarily connected to the controller 44 or controller 104
by a USB connection, wired connection, infrared or Bluetooth
connection etc.).
[0048] The presentation of the current subscription plan 62 for the
person exercising allows the person to see his or her current
options and to possibly select one or more of the options using
selector input 36.
[0049] According to one embodiment, controller 44 may further
generate control signals causing display 32 to present various
upgrade options or offers 72. As shown by FIG. 2, the upgrade
offers may include offers to upgrade accessibility 74 to the
particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B such as increasing
either one or more quantity limitations Q or universal time
limitations T. The upgrade offers may include one or more
additional parameters (P) 76 or one or more additional visual
presentations (VP) 78. In addition, the upgrade offers may include
prepackaged sets 80 of upgrade options, wherein each set 80
includes a different group of accessibility, additional available
parameters and additional available visual presentations. With each
offer, presentation 60 displays a price ($) 82 for the upgrade. The
cost or price of such upgrades may constitute a one-time payment, a
monthly payment, yearly payment of the like.
[0050] If the user wishes to upgrade his or her subscription plan
for the particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B while the person
is physically at the fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B, person may
select the offer using selector input 36 and may remit payment
using payment input 38. In one embodiment, actual payment may not
be required, wherein the person merely authorizes his or her
account to be billed or charged. Once an upgrade is selected and
paid or charged, controller 44 updates the person subscription plan
54 in subscription database 42.
[0051] At predetermined times, controller 44 further maintains
subscription database 42 by comparing the current date or time with
any expiration date for any feature in the subscription plan.
Controller 44 culls or removes features from the subscription plan
that have expired. In embodiments where subscriptions have a
termination or expiration date, controller 44 may additionally
generate control signals causing visual presentation 60 to
additionally inform the user of features currently in the current
subscription that are about to expire.
[0052] Subscription manager 24 comprises a central device in
communication with each of a plurality of fitness equipment units
in the same facility or in multiple different facilities. Such
communication may be provided in a wired or wireless fashion. This
communication may be across an intranet or the Internet. In other
embodiments, subscription manager 24 may indirectly communicate
with multiple fitness equipment units through use of data carrying
structures, such as cards and the like, that are written upon
and/or read from by manager 24 and multiple fitness equipment units
22, wherein the data carrying structures are manually carried
between manager 24 and the various fitness equipment units 22.
[0053] In particular embodiments, subscription manager 24
facilitates the monitoring, oversight and adjustment of a
subscription plan for a multitude of different fitness equipment
units for a single person and such subscription plans from multiple
individuals. Subscription manager 24 may be operated by a manager
or owner of a fitness facility. The description manager 24
comprises display 92, selector input 96, payment input 98,
subscription database 102 and controller 104.
[0054] Display 92 comprises a monitor, screen or other device
configured to present visual information. For example, display 92
may comprise an LCD screen. In another embodiment, display 92 may
comprise an array or series of individual lights or light emitting
diodes that are selectively illuminated to provide visual
information. In one embodiment, display 92 may be a part of a touch
screen which may also serve as one or more of selector input 96 or
payment input 98.
[0055] Selector input 96 comprises a device or mechanism by which a
person exercising may enter or input selections to controller 104.
In particular, selector input 96 is configured such that a person
may choose or select one or more optional features for modifying
the person's subscription plan. Examples of selector input 96
include, but are not limited to, components of a touch screen
incorporated as part of display 92 or another display, a touchpad,
a mouse, stylus, a microphone with speech recognition software,
keyboard or keypad.
[0056] Payment input 98 comprises a device or mechanism remotely
located from fitness equipment units 22 by which a person may
authorize or remit payment when subscribing to a new or different
subscription plan or when upgrading the current subscription plan.
In one embodiment, payment input 98 may comprise a sensing device
(and associated firmware and software) that senses a payment
authorization token, sometimes referred to as a key fob, assigned
or designated to the particular user or person and located within a
predetermined proximity to the sensing device, such as when the
person is seated upon a portion of the fitness equipment unit or is
using the fitness equipment unit. In some embodiments, such payment
authorization tokens may rely on radio frequency identification
tags and transponders. In another embodiment, payment input 98 may
comprise a card reader, such as a magnetic card reader (configured
to read a swiped credit card, debit card, membership card or the
like). In yet other embodiments, payment input 98 may comprise the
keyboard, keypad or other input device (and associated firmware and
software) that allows the person enter his or her credit card
information authorizing payment. As such, in some embodiments,
payment input 98 may be provided as part of one or more of display
92, and/or selector input 96. In some embodiments, payment input 98
may be omitted and not included as part of manager 24.
[0057] Subscription database 102 comprises a database of current
subscription plans 106A, 106B, 106C, 106D, 106E (collectively
referred to as subscription plans 106) for different potential
users of the associated fitness equipment units 22A and 22B (as
well as addition fitness equipment units 22 (not shown)). In one
embodiment, subscription database 102 may additionally include a
database of different available subscription plans or features that
may be purchased along with their associated prices (schematically
represented by subscription plan 108). Each subscription plan may
include access to or make available the base mode and one or more
supplemental features as provided by base mode instruction 50 and
supplemental feature instructions 52 under the control of
controller 44 for each of multiple fitness equipment units 22.
[0058] In one embodiment, each subscription plan 106, 108 may
additionally include a pre-purchased quantity relating to the use
of fitness equipment units 22A, 22B. For example, each subscription
plan 106, 108 may additionally include a prepurchased number of
hours that the subscriber may use a particular fitness equipment
unit 22A, 22b. The hours quantity may be a total number of hours
which is gradually consumed by a subscriber during use of the
fitness pivot unit or may be a total number of hours during a
predefined time period (e.g., 5 hours per week; 15 hours per month;
5 hours per calendar week; 15 hours per calendar year).
[0059] In another embodiment, the prepurchased quantity may be
defined in terms of a metric on the fitness equipment unit itself.
For example, each subscription plan 106, 108 may include a
prepurchased number of miles such as when the fitness equipment
unit 22A or 22B is a treadmill, elliptical machine or adaptive
motion machine. In another embodiment, the subscription plan 106:08
may include a prepurchased number of pounds such as when the
fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B involves the lifting of weights. In
yet other embodiments, the subscription plan 106:08 may include a
pre-purchased quantity relating to wear of the fitness equipment
unit. In such a manner, the cost of prescription plan could be
directly tied to maintenance, repair or replacement of the fitness
equipment unit being used.
[0060] In yet another embodiment, the subscription plan 106, 108
may include a pre-purchased or predefined universal time period or
range for which the particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B is
available for use. For example, the subscription plan may provide
user with access to the particular fitness equipment unit on
particular days of the week, such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday,
only on weekends, during particular hours of each day (8 AM to 11
AM), or during particular hours on selected days (8 AM to 11 AM on
Monday Wednesday and Friday, 2 PM to 3 PM on Saturday and 8 PM to
10 PM on Sunday). With such subscription plans 106, 108, prime
times or more busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit
22A, 22B may have a higher subscription price while less prime
times or less busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit
22A, 22B may be provided with a lower subscription price. As a
result, available time for use of a fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B
may be allotted at different prices to different users to
accommodate different budgets or price points for different users
while the same time maximizing income from the fitness equipment
unit 22A, 22B.
[0061] Likewise, in facilities where identical fitness equipment
units are located at different locations within the facility,
subscription plans 106, 108 for each of the identical equipment
units may have different prices for an otherwise identical
subscription plan depending upon demand for a particular fitness
equipment unit at a particular location within the fitness facility
(more convenient versus less convenient location) or within close
proximity to a desired amenity (locker room, refreshment station or
other fitness equipment units).
[0062] Controller 104 comprise one or more processing units
provided as part of subscription manager 24 configured to follow
instructions contained in a memory structure such as the same
memory structure containing database 102. Controller 104 and the
associated instructions contained in the memory structure are
configured to facilitate communication between manager 24 and each
of the fitness equipment units 22 being managed by manager 24. Such
communication may be in a wired or wireless fashion (intranet,
Internet). Controller 104 is further configured to revise or update
subscription plans 106 in database 102 based upon either selections
and purchases made at the individual fitness equipment unit 22 or
selections and purchases made at manager 24 itself using display
92, selector input 96 and payment input 98.
[0063] In some embodiments, controller 104 may itself be configured
to verify whether a particular user is authorized to select one or
more supplemental features based upon the use identity as received
by identity input 34 at the particular fitness equipment unit 22
and communicate to manager 24 and the particular user subscription
plan stored in database 102. In such an embodiment, controller 44
need not be configured to perform this check. In embodiments where
manager 24 is provided, database 42 may be omitted as part of one
or more of it is equipment units 22. In some embodiments, manager
24 may itself include control instructions 40, wherein controller
104, following the control instructions contained in manager 24,
directly controls force receiving members 30. In such an
embodiment, one or more of fitness equipment units 22 may omit
control instructions 40. As a result, fitness equipment units 22
may be simplified.
[0064] In operation, manager 24 enables a person to view his or her
entire subscription plan for multiple fitness equipment units 22.
Manager 24 further enables a person to revise or upgrade his or her
plan for one or more of the fitness community 22 being managed by
manager 24. In other embodiments, manager 24 may be omitted.
[0065] FIG. 3 illustrates one example display presentation 110 that
may be presented by controller 104 on display 92 based upon the
identification of the person exercising and his or her current
subscription plan as retrieved from subscription database 102. In
other embodiments, controller 44 may retrieve a subscription plan
106 from database 102 and provide presentation 110 on display 32 at
a particular fitness equipment unit 22. As shown by FIG. 3,
presentation 110 identifies the current subscription plan 112 for
multiple fitness equipment units 22A or 22B. In the example
illustrated, the current subscription plan 112 includes current
accessibility (A), available parameters (AP) and available video or
visual presentations (AVP) (each of which is discussed above) for
each of the fitness equipment units FEU.sub.1 to FEU.sub.N. The
presentation of the current subscription plan 112 for the person
exercising allows the person to see his or her current options. In
embodiments where subscription plan 102 is presented at the
particular fitness equipment unit 22 on display 32, the user person
may select one or more of the options using selector input 36.
[0066] According to one embodiment, controller 104 may further
generate control signals causing display 92 (or display 32) to
present various upgrade options or offers 114. As shown by FIG. 3,
the upgrade offers may include offers to upgrade accessibility A to
one or more of fitness equipment units 22A, 22B such as increasing
either one or more quantity limitations Q or universal time
limitations T. The upgrade offers may include one or more
additional parameters (P) or one or more additional visual
presentations (VP). In addition, the upgrade offers may include
prepackaged sets (Package) of upgrade options, wherein each Package
includes a different group of accessibility, additional available
parameters and additional available visual presentations. With each
offer, presentation 110 displays a price ($)for the upgrade. The
cost or price of such upgrades may constitute a one-time payment, a
monthly payment, yearly payment of the like.
[0067] If the user wishes to upgrade his or her subscription plan
for one or more fitness equipment units 22, the person may select
the offer using selector input 96 and may remit payment using
payment input 98. In one embodiment, actual payment may not be
required, wherein the person merely authorizes his or her account
to be billed or charged. In some embodiments, the person at one
fitness equipment unit 22 may upgrade or revise his or her
subscription plan to include additional features for use on a
different fitness equipment unit 22. Once an upgrade is selected
and paid or charged, controller 104 updates the person subscription
plan 106 in subscription database 102. Databases 42 in the
individual fitness equipment units 22 may also be updated by either
controller 104 or controller 44.
[0068] At predetermined times, controller 104 further maintains
subscription database 102 by comparing the current date or time
with any expiration date for any feature in the subscription plan.
Controller 104 culls or removes features from the subscription plan
that have expired. In some embodiments, controller 104 may
additionally modify any subscription plans contained in database 42
at each of the one or more fitness equipment units 22 to reflect
the expiration of such features. In embodiments where subscriptions
have a termination or expiration date, controller 104 may
additionally generate control signals causing visual presentation
110 (and/or visual presentation 60 at an individual fitness
equipment unit 22) to additionally inform the user of features
currently in the current subscription that are about to expire.
[0069] Subscription monitor 26 comprises an electronic device
configured to monitor an individual person's subscription plan as
stored in either a database 42 of an individual fitness equipment
unit 22 or database 102 of manager 24. Subscription monitor 26
facilitates viewing, upgrading or maintaining of a person's
subscription plan for an individual fitness equipment unit 22 or
other multiple fitness equipment units 22. Fitness equipment unit
22 communicates with each of manager 24 and one of more fitness
equipment units 22 in a wired or wireless fashion (such as through
the Internet or intranet). In one embodiment, monitor 26 may
comprise a portable electronic device such as a cell phone, tablet,
personal data assistant (PDA), laptop and the like. In another
embodiment, 26 may comprise a desktop computer, computing
television and the like.
[0070] As shown by FIG. 1, monitor 26 comprises display 132,
selector input 136, payment input 138 and controller 144. Display
132, selector input 136 and payment input 138 are substantially
similar to display 92, selector input 96 and unit input 98
described above. Controller 144 comprises one or more processing
units configured to follow instructions contained in a memory
structure. Controller 414 and the associated instructions are
configured to retrieve a subscription plan 54 from database 42 or
to retrieve the assertion plan 106 from database 102 of manager 24,
wherein the retrieve sufficient plan is displayed on display 132.
In one embodiment, controller 144 is further configured to allow a
person to upgrade, modify maintain his or her restriction plan
using selector input one 136 and payment input 138. In some
embodiments, controller 144 may additionally be configured to store
a retrieved or modify subscription plan in a memory structure
within monitor 26. In some embodiments, monitor 26 may be
omitted.
[0071] FIGS. 4-10 illustrate one example embodiment of the
particular fitness equipment unit 910 which comprises an adaptive
motion machine. In alternative preferred embodiments, other types
of exercise machines, including both cardiovascular exercise
machines/equipment and weight lifting/strength machines/equipment,
providing variable two and/or three dimensional paths of motion for
the upper and/or lower body of the user can also be used. Exercise
device or apparatus 320 allows a person to adjust a horizontal
length of his or her stride simply by the person applying force to
foot supports of the fitness equipment unit. Fitness equipment unit
322 further allows the person to also adjust a vertical length or
vertical step height. Fitness equipment unit 322 provides such
freedom of motion using flexible elements 404 and 406 in an
architecture that is compact, less complex and less expensive.
[0072] As shown by FIGS. 17-23, fitness equipment unit 322
comprises frame 324, linkage assemblies 326L, 326R (collectively
referred to as linkage assemblies 326), swing arms 327R, 327L
(collectively referred to as swing arms 327), crank system 328,
resistance system 330, coupling systems 334L, 334R (collectively
referred to as coupling systems 334), step height adjustment
mechanism 338, horizontal resistance system 340 and interface panel
523.
[0073] Frame 324 supports fitness equipment unit 322 upon a base or
floor. As illustrated in FIG. 18, frame 324 includes rear base
portion 350, front or forward post or leg 352, rear supports or
legs 354R, 354L (collectively referred to as rear supports 354),
side arms 356L, 356R (collectively referred to as side arms 356),
front support 355, front supports 346R, 346L (collectively referred
to as front supports 346), front support 347, cross-shaft 349, end
caps 351R, 351L (collectively referred to as end caps 351), covers
357R, 357L (collectively referred to as covers 357) and crank
support 353. Base portion 350 bears against the floor and is
connected to rear supports 354. The bottom of forward post 352
bears against the floor. Forward post 352 extends at a forward end
of fitness equipment unit 322 and is connected to and supports
front support 347. Front support 347 connects to and supports side
arms 356 and cross-shaft 349. Front supports 346 connect front post
352 to rear supports 354. Platform 348 connects to rear supports or
legs 354 and covers rear support 350. Front support 355 connects to
front support 347 and supports interface panel 523. Side arms 356
and front support 347 support cross-shaft 349. Rear supports or
legs 354 extend toward the rear end of fitness equipment unit 322
and are connected to side arms 356. End caps 351R, 351L
(collectively referred to as end caps 351) and covers 361R, 361L
(collectively referred to as covers 361) connect to side arms
356.
[0074] Side arms 356 extend rearwardly from leg 352 and front
support 347 on opposite sides of both linkage assemblies 326. Side
arms 356 extend substantially parallel to one another at the same
vertical height. Side arms 356 provide bars, beams or shafts by
which a person's left and right hands may grasp or rest upon when
mounting fitness equipment unit 322 or when otherwise not grasping
handle portions 366R, 366L (collectively referred to as handle
portions) of swing arms 327. Side arms 356 help retain a person on
linkage assemblies 326 and on fitness equipment unit 322 and reduce
the likelihood of a person falling off of fitness equipment unit
322. Side arms 356 assist in supporting cross-shaft 349 and
portions of coupling systems 334. Side arms 356 further serve as
shields about flexible elements of couplings systems 334. End caps
351 and covers 357 cover portions of coupling systems 334 by
attachment to side arms 356.
[0075] Forward post 352 supports front support 347, crank support
353, resistance system 330, step height adjustment mechanism 338
and horizontal resistance system 340. For ease of illustration,
portions of post 352, such as brackets or support plates extending
forwardly from post 352 are omitted.
[0076] Cross-shaft 349 supports linkage assemblies 326, swing arms
327 and portions of coupling assemblies 334. Front supports 346
provide additional support between front post 352 and rear supports
354.Crank support 353 supports portions of crank system 328 and
portions of step height adjustment mechanism 338. Crank support 353
comprises a plate, beam, bar, channel or similar element firmly
attached to the rearward side of front post 352. Crank support 353
also comprises operable attachment elements for portions of crank
system 328 and step height adjustment mechanism 338. Such operable
attachment elements include shafts, hubs, collars, pins, levers or
similar elements to allow for movement of crank system 328 potions
and step height mechanism 338 portions around a horizontal
centerline 374. In another embodiment, support for portions of step
height mechanism 338 may be omitted from crank support 353. In some
embodiments, crank support 353 may be attached forward of front
post 352 or be supported by other portions of frame 324.
[0077] Platform 348 provides a location from which the user of
fitness equipment unit 322 may mount foot pads 362R, 362L (commonly
referred to as foot pads) of linkage assemblies 326.
[0078] Linkage assemblies 326 comprise one or more members movably
supported by frame 324 and configured to elevate and support a
person's feet as the person exercising applies force to such
linkage assemblies to move such linkage assemblies relative to
frame 324. Linkage assemblies 326 are coupled to one another so as
to automatically move 180 degrees out of phase with respect to one
another when opposing forces are applied to linkage assemblies 326.
The person exercising exerts force on foot pads 362 and foot
support members 360, alternating right and left, while also pushing
and pulling on linkage assemblies 326 to create the out of phase
movement of linkage assemblies 326. In other embodiments, other
means of synchronization may be used.
[0079] As illustrated in FIG. 6, each of linkage assemblies 326
includes motion members 358R, 358L (collectively referred to motion
members 358), torque bars 359R, 359L (collectively referred to
torque bars 359), foot support members 360R, 360L (collectively
referred to as foot support members 360), hubs 361R, 361L
(collectively referred to as hubs 361), foot pads 362R, 362L
(collectively referred to as foot pads 362), saddles 363R, 363L
(collectively referred to as saddles 363), joints 364R, 364L
(collectively referred to as joints 364) and joint covers 365R,
365L (collectively referred to as joint covers 365).
[0080] Torque bars 359 are supported by cross-shaft 349. Torque
bars 359 are spool-shaped including a center portion of one
diameter and end portions of diameters larger than the diameter of
the center portion. Each of torque bars 359 includes a circular
hole located on its radial centerline and extending along its
entire length. The inside diameter of the circular hole is slightly
larger than the outside diameter of cross-shaft 349. Torque bars
359 mount on to cross-shaft 349 such as to allow rotational
movement of torque bars 359 on cross-shaft 349. The rotational
movement of torque bars 359 creates resulting rotational movement
or winding and unwinding of portions of coupling systems 334.
[0081] Each of hubs 361 is a circular element with a hollow center
that is mounted on the smaller diameter portion of one of torque
bars 359. Hubs 361 pivotally connect swing arms 327 and motion
members 358. The rearward sides of hubs 361 are attached to swing
arms 327. The bottom sides of hubs 361 are attached to motion
members 358. The forward sides of hubs 361 are attached to portions
of coupling systems 334.
[0082] Motion members 358 are essentially vertical components that
transfer movement from hubs 361 to lower portions of linkage
assemblies 326. Motion members 358 are attached to saddles 363 and
joint covers 365. Each of saddles 363 wrap around the forward side
of the lowest part of one of motion members 358 and are attached to
motion members 358. Each of saddles 363 has one or more arms that
attach to joints 364. Each of joint covers 365 attach to the
rearward side of one of motion members 358 immediately above joint
364. The combination of saddles 363, joints 364 and joint covers
365 pivotally connect motion members 358 to foot support members
360. In other embodiments, motion members 358 and foot support
members 360 may be pivotally connected other means such as knee
braces, welded hubs or the like.
[0083] Each foot support member 360 (also known as a stair arm)
serves as a force receiving member and extends substantially
horizontally from one of joints 364 and supports one of foot pads
362. Each foot pad 362 comprises a paddle, pedal, or the like
providing a surface upon which a person's foot may rest. Each foot
pad 362 further includes a toe cover or toe clip against which a
person's foot or toes may apply force in an upward or vertical
direction. Foot pads 362 may have a variety of different sizes,
shapes and configurations. In other embodiments, each motion member
358 and foot support member 360 (sometimes referred to as a foot
link) may also have different configurations, shapes and
connections. For example, in other embodiments, a lieu of foot
support member 360 having a rear end which is cantilevered, foot
support member 360 may alternatively have a rear end which is
pivotally supported by another supporting linkage extending from
one of side arms 356 or another portion of frame 324.
[0084] Swing arms 327 comprise arms having handle portions 366
configured to be grasped by a person while linkage assemblies 326
are pivoted relative to frame 324. In the example illustrated,
swing arms 327 are rigidly connected to hubs 361 which are also
rigidly connected to motion members 358. Swing arms 327, hubs 361
and motion members 358 comprise a fixed arrangement that pivots
around cross-shaft 349. As a result, swing arms 327 permit a person
to exercise his or her arms and upper body. In other embodiments,
swing arms 327 may pivot independent of linkage assemblies 326, may
have independent resistance systems for exercising the upper body
or may be rigidly or stationarily supported by frame 324. In some
embodiments, swing arms 327 may be omitted.
[0085] FIGS. 7 and 9 illustrate crank system 328 in more detail.
Flexible element portions of coupling systems 334 are omitted from
FIG. 9 for ease of illustration. Crank system 328 comprises a
mechanism configured to synchronize movement of linkage assemblies
326 and to apply a resistance to such movement. As shown by such
figures, crank system 328 crank arms or cranks 370R, 370L
(collectively referred to as crank arms 370), crank guide arms
371R, 371L (collectively referred to as crank guide arms 371),
flexible element crank guides 372R, 372L (collectively referred to
as flexible element crank guides 372) and crank shaft 376.
[0086] Cranks 370 transfer force and movement from coupling systems
334 to resistance system 330. Cranks 370 are attached to and
supported by crank shaft 376. Crank shaft 376 is supported by crank
support 353 in a manner to allow rotation of crankshaft 376 and
cranks 370 about horizontal axis 374. Because cranks 370 rotate
about a substantially horizontal axis 374 which is positioned near
forward post 352, crank system 328 is more compact. In yet other
embodiments, crank system 328 may be located elsewhere within the
confines of frame 324.
[0087] In the example illustrated, crank 370L comprises a combined
input crank and sheave in the form of a disk, wheel or the like,
wherein the disc or wheel concentrically extends about axis 374. In
other embodiments, crank 370L may comprise one or more members
configured to rotate about axis 374, wherein crank 370L does not
concentrically extend about axis 374. In other embodiments, crank
270L may rotate about a vertical axis in a manner such as
illustrated for fitness equipment unit 20.
[0088] Crank 370R is fixed to crank 370L so as to rotate with crank
370L. In the example illustrated, crank 370R comprises an arm
radially extending outward from shaft 376 and supporting guide 372R
towards its outer radial end. Crank 370R supports flexible element
crank guide 372R attached to crank arm 370R at crank guide arm
371R. Crank 370L includes flexible element crank guide 372L
attached to crank arm 370L at crank guide arm 371L.
[0089] Crank guide arms 371 and flexible element crank guides 372
are located on crank arms 370 at points that are equidistant and
radially spaced from axis 374. The locations of crank guide 372R
and crank guide 372L are positioned 180 degrees out of phase from
each other. Flexible element crank guides 372 comprise members that
are connected to and carried by cranks arms 370 so as to rotate
about axis 374 and about which front flexible elements 406 (406R,
406L) of coupling system 334 wrap so as to transmit force to crank
guides 372 and ultimately to cranks 370. In the example
illustrated, flexible element crank guides 372 comprise a pulley.
In other embodiments, flexible element crank guides 372 may
alternatively comprise a spool or disc against which a flexible
element moves or slides without rotation of the flexible element
crank guide 372.
[0090] Resistance system 330 applies additional resistance to the
rotation of crank system 328. In the particular example
illustrated, resistance system 330 provides a selectively
adjustable incremental resistance to the rotation of cranks 369 of
crank system 328. Resistance system 330 includes belt 380, speed
changer 390, belt 388 and resistance source 392. In the illustrated
embodiment, speed changer 390 comprises a step up pulley. Belt 380
wraps about one of cranks 369 and the smaller wheel of speed
changer 390. Belt 388 wraps about the larger wheel of speed changer
390 and also about the shaft of resistance source 392. The
attachment of resistance source 392 to front post 352 adjacent to
cranks 369 and with horizontal axis of rotation allows for a more
compact and efficient design for fitness equipment unit 322. In
other embodiments, chain and sprocket arrangements, gear trains and
other transmissions may be used to operatively couple cranks 370 to
resistance source 392.
[0091] Resistance source 392 comprises a mechanism configured to
rotate against a selectively adjustable resistance. In one
embodiment, resistance source 392 comprises a metal plate and one
or more magnets forming an Eddy brake. In one embodiment, the one
or more magnets comprise electromagnets, allowing the strength of
the magnetic force to be selectively adjusted to control and vary
the resistance applied against the rotation of cranks 370. In
another embodiment, resistance source 392 may comprise an electric
generator. In still another embodiment, resistance source 392 may
comprise two surfaces in frictional contact with one another to
apply a frictional resistance against rotation of cranks 370. In
another embodiment, air brakes may be utilized. In still other
embodiments, other brakes or resistance mechanisms may be
utilized.
[0092] Because resistance system 330 utilizes a two-stage
transmission between cranks 369 and resistance source 392, the
arrangement or architecture of crank system 328 and resistance
system 330 is more compact and the speed ratio between cranks 369
and resistance source 392 (approximately 12:1) provides improved
electric performance. In other embodiments, a single stage or a
transmission with greater than two stages may be employed. In yet
other embodiments, resistance system 330 may have other
configurations or may be omitted. For example, in another
embodiment, the transmission of resistance system 330 may include
gear trains, chains and sprockets or the like.
[0093] As best shown by FIGS. 4, 14A and 7, coupling system 334
operably couples or joins step height adjustment system 338 to foot
support members 360 or footpads 362. Coupling systems 334 include
front end flexible element mounts 398R, 398L (collectively referred
to as front end flexible element mounts 398), front flexible
elements 406R, 406L (collectively referred to as front flexible
elements 406), torque bar inboard flexible element mounts 401R,
401L (collectively referred to as torque bar inboard flexible
element mounts 401), torque bar outboard flexible element mounts
400R, 400L (collectively referred to as torque bar rear flexible
element mounts 404), rear flexible elements 404R, 400L
(collectively referred to as rear flexible elements 404), rear
guide elements 402R, 402L (collectively referred to as rear guide
elements 402 and foot pad flexible element mounts 412R, 412L
(collectively referred to as foot pad flexible element mounts
412).
[0094] Front flexible elements 406 and rear flexible elements 404
comprise flat belts of fiber reinforced polymer. In one embodiment,
elements 404 and 406 comprise Kevlar reinforced polyurethane. Fiber
reinforced polymer provides the advantage of durability for
flexible elements 404 and 406. In another embodiment, one or more
of front flexible elements 406 and rear flexible elements 404 may
comprise bendable members such as cables, wires, ropes, belts,
cords, strings, chains, and the like. In another embodiment, one or
more of front flexible elements 406 and rear flexible elements 404
may comprise belts of materials other than fiber reinforced
polymer.
[0095] As shown by FIG. 7, front end flexible element mount 398
(also known as a "dead end") comprises a mount or securement point
at which an end of front flexible element 406 is attached. In the
example illustrated, end mount 398 for each of coupling systems 334
is provided by step height adjustment mechanism 338. In other
embodiments in which step height adjustment mechanism 338 is
omitted, front end flexible element mount 398 may be provided by
part of frame 324. In still other embodiments in which the ends of
flexible elements 406 are directly attached to cranks 369 and do
not wrap about a flexible elements crank guide 372, end mounts 398
may be provided on cranks 369.
[0096] Torque bar inboard flexible element mounts 401 comprise the
spool ends of torque bars 359 that are located nearest to the
longitudinal centerline of cross-shaft 349. Torque bar outboard
flexible element mounts 400 comprise the spool ends of torque bars
359 that are located nearest to the longitudinal ends of
cross-shaft 349.
[0097] Front flexible elements 406 wrap around flexible elements
crank guides 372 and also wrap around from below and toward the
rearward side of torque bar inboard flexible element mounts 401. As
viewed from the left side of fitness equipment unit 322, front end
flexible elements 406 wrap around torque bar inboard flexible
elements mounts 401 in a counter-clockwise direction. The rearward
ends of front flexible elements 406 attach to torque bar inboard
flexible element mounts 401. The forward ends of rear flexible
elements 404 attach to torque bar outboard flexible elements mounts
400. Rear flexible elements 404 wrap from above and toward the
forward side of torque bar outboard flexible element mounts 400 in
a counter-clockwise direction as viewed from the left side of
fitness equipment unit 322. The method of attachment of front
flexible elements 406 to torque bar inboard flexible elements
mounts 401 and of rear flexible elements 404 to torque bar outboard
flexible element mounts 400 serves to laterally transmit torque
back and forth between elements 406 and 404 through torque bar 359
in an wind/unwind motion.
[0098] A shown by FIG. 7, the torque bar flexible element mounts
400 guide and direct movement of the rear flexible elements 404 to
the interior of side arms 356 and toward rear guide elements
402.
[0099] In the example illustrated, rear guide elements 402 comprise
pulleys rotationally supported by side arms 356 of frame 324
proximate to a rear end of fitness equipment unit 322 substantially
vertically above footpads 362 when footpads 362 are longitudinally
aligned. In other embodiments, each of rear guide elements 402 may
alternatively comprise a low friction surface which does not rotate
and against which flexible elements 404 moves or slides.
[0100] As shown by FIG. 7, each of guide elements 402 further
guides and directs flexible element 404 through an opening from an
interior of side arm 356 in a substantially vertical direction down
to foot support members 360 and footpads 362. In the example
illustrated, guide elements 402 rotate about a substantially
horizontal axis 410. Although coupling systems 334 are illustrated
as having one guide element 402, in other embodiments, coupling
systems 334 may alternatively include a greater or fewer of such
guide elements.
[0101] In the example illustrated, the rearward end of rear
flexible elements 404 is fixed to a foot support member 360 by a
mount 412 at a location transversely opposite to footpad 362 near
or proximate to a forward end of footpad 362. In the example
illustrated, each mount 412 includes a body that slides (via screw
adjustment) up and down relative to a pivoting block attached to
the associated member 360, wherein flexible element 404 is fixed or
secured to the body of the mount. Each mount 412 allows the
location of members 360 to be adjusted so as to be level with one
another. In other embodiments, mounts 412 may comprise other
securement mechanisms such as clamps, fasteners and the like. In
another embodiment, flexible element 404 may be clamped to mount
412 as described herein for fitness equipment unit 20.
[0102] Each rear flexible element 404 extends from mount 412 in a
substantially vertical direction until engaging rear guide 402.
Rear flexible element 404 wraps partially about rear guide element
402 into an interior of one of side arm 356. Rear flexible element
404 extends through the interior of side arm 356 until engaging
torque bar outboard flexible element mount 400. Movement is
translated from the rear flexible element 404 to the front flexible
element 406 through torque bar 359. Front flexible element 406
extends from torque inboard flexible element mount 401 and wraps
around flexible elements crank guides 372. Finally, the front end
of each front flexible element 406 is secured to one of front end
mounts 398.
[0103] Because each of coupling systems 334 employs flexible
elements (404 and 406) rather than rigid inflexible members or
elements, forces may be more smoothly transmitted across convoluted
paths, allowing coupling systems 334 and crank system 328 to be
more compactly arranged and to be less complex and expensive. In
addition, flexible elements (404 and 406) also have a reduced
diameter as compared to rigid elements which permits the
transmission of forces from linkage assemblies 326 to crank system
328 in even a more compact fashion. In other embodiments, at least
segments or portions of front flexible elements 406 or rear
flexible elements 404 may alternatively be replaced with rigid
inflexible members or elements.
[0104] Step height adjustment mechanism 338 is configured to
provide foot support members 360 and foot pads 362 with a multitude
of different user selectable maximum upper and lower vertical
ranges of motion. Adjustment mechanism 338 allows a person to
adjust a maximum step height or a maximum step depth of a path
through which the left and right foot supports 360 may move.
[0105] As shown by FIGS. 8-10, step height adjustment mechanism 338
comprises adjustment member 414 and actuator 416 connected by
linkage 417. Step height adjustment mechanism 338 changes the
location of front end flexible element mounts 398 which, in turn,
modifies the paths of front flexible elements 406 and rear flexible
elements 404 and adjusts the positions of foot pads 362.
[0106] Adjustment member 414 pivots vertically about a horizontal
axis at the center of its attachment to frame 324. Front end
flexible elements mounts 398 are located on the forward end of
adjustment member 414. The rearward end of adjustment member 414 is
connected to actuator 416 by linkage 417. As viewed from the left
side of fitness equipment unit 322, movement of linkage 417
downward pivots adjustment member 414 in a clockwise direction
which increases the vertical position of front flexible element
mounts 398. In the illustrated example, the pivot axis of
adjustment member 414 is coincident with axis 374 of crank system
328. As a result, movement of front end flexible end mounts 398
from the lowest position to the highest position results in an
increase in the overall step height or distance with a majority of
the increase occurring at the upper end of the range of motion. In
other words, the upper end or highest vertical height attained by
the footpads 326 during their motion will rise by an extent nearly
equaling the total increase in step height distance. The lowest
point to which the footpads 326 fall in only minimally lowered. By
way of example, it the step height or range is increased by a
distance X, the highest vertical point of foot pads 326 may
increase by a distance 4/5 X which the lowest vertical height will
only fall by a distance 1/5 X. As a result, linkage assemblies 320
may be supported at a lower elevation with a reduced risk of the
linkage assemblies 320 or their footpads 326 bottoming out as a
result of step height adjustment.
[0107] In other embodiments, adjustment member 414 and crank system
328 may pivot or rotate about different axes. For example, the axis
of adjustment member 414 and crank system 328 may be offset such
that changes in the step height or step range (the distance between
the highest and lowest points in the path of foot pads 326) are
equally distributed such that an increase or decrease in step
height or range will result in the highest vertical point and the
lowest vertical point of the path of pads 326 being raised and
lowered by substantially equal amounts. In yet other embodiments,
the axis of adjustment member 414 and crank system 328 may be
offset such that changes in the step height or step range are
largely achieved at the lower end of the range of motion, the
lowermost elevation changing by a much larger extent as compared to
the extent to which the uppermost elevation of foot pads 326
changes.
[0108] Although front end flexible element mounts 398 are
illustrated as moving in unison, front end flexible element mounts
398 may be supported so as to be movable independent of one another
to different locations--either by being rotated or by being
translated. In yet other embodiments, step height adjustment member
may move linearly through a slotted or sliding mechanism or the
like. Overall, the location of step height adjustment mechanism 338
on front post 352 with vertical movement of front end flexible
element mounts 398 provides a more compact and efficient
design.
[0109] Actuator 416 and linkage 417 comprise a mechanism configured
to rotate or move the adjustment member 414 between a plurality of
different positions so as to position and retain front end flexible
element mounts 398 at different positions with respect to frame
324, cranks 369 and flexible element crank guides 372. In one
embodiment, actuator 416 comprises a motor configured to
rotationally drive a threaded shaft or screw threadably engaging a
nut or internally threaded member connected to member 414. Rotation
of the threaded shaft or screw results in member 414 being raised
and lowered and pivoting about axis 374. In other embodiments,
actuator 416 and linkage 417 may comprise other means for raising
and lowering member 414. For example, actuator 416 may
alternatively comprise a hydraulic or pneumatic piston and cylinder
assembly. In yet another embodiment, after 416 may comprise an
electric solenoid. In still other embodiments, actuator 416 may
comprise various gears or cam arrangements.
[0110] Although actuator 417 is illustrated as being attached to
frame 324 rearward of post-352 and being further attached to member
414 rearwardly of the pivot axis of member 414, in other
embodiments, actuator 417 may alternatively be attached to the
member 414 forwardly of the pivot axis of member 414, on the same
side of the pivot axis as mounts 398. In yet other embodiment,
actuator 417 may be supported on the forward side of front post 352
or on another part of frame 324.
[0111] FIGS. 11A and 11B diagrammatically illustrate the adjustment
of travel distance achieved by the repositioning of front end
flexible elements mounts 398. Both figures present an approximate
elevation view of select components of step height adjustment
mechanism 338, crank system 328, coupling system 334 and linkage
assemblies 326. As shown by FIGS. 24A and 24B, repositioning front
end flexible element mount 398 varies the amount or extent by which
the front flexible element 406 wraps about the associated flexible
element crank guide 372. This change in the amount of wrap changes
the travel distance or travel range of foot supports 362. In one
embodiment, the maximum step height, maximum step depth or both
maximum step height and depth of the path through which footpads
362 may be adjusted.
[0112] FIG. 11A illustrates the approximate orientation of
components when adjustment member 414 is pivoted to position front
end flexible elements mounts 398 at their lowest point, L1. The
resulting step height is "Low Travel Distance", TD1, which is the
difference in the location of one of foot pads 362 at point H1 and
the location of the other foot pad 362 at point D1. FIG. 11B
illustrates the approximate orientation of components when
adjustment member 414 is pivoted to position front end flexible
elements mounts 398 at their highest point, L2. The resulting step
height is "High Travel Distance", TD2, which is the difference in
the location of one of foot pads 362 at point H2 and the location
of the other foot pad 362 at point D2.
[0113] As illustrated by FIG. 11A, when front end flexible element
mount 398 is at the lowest position L1, the combination of front
flexible element 406 and rear flexible element 404 on one side of
fitness equipment unit 322 extends along path P1 resulting in foot
pad 362 location at position H1. The combination of front flexible
element 406 and rear flexible element 407 on the opposing side of
fitness equipment unit 322 extends along path P2 resulting in foot
pad 362 at position D1. The distance between the first foot pad 362
position H1 and the second foot pad 362 position D1 is TD1, "Low
Travel Distance". TD1 represents the minimum step height.
[0114] As illustrated by FIG. 11B, when front end flexible element
mount 398 is at the highest position L2, the combination of front
flexible element 406 and rear flexible element 404 on one side of
fitness equipment unit 322 extends through path P3 resulting in
foot pad 362 position at H2. The combination of front flexible
element 406 and rear flexible element 404 on the opposing side of
fitness equipment unit 322 extends along path P4 resulting in foot
pad 362 position D2. The distance between the first foot pad 362
position H2 and the second foot pad 362 position D2 is TD2, "High
Travel Distance". TD2 represents the maximum step height.
[0115] During pivoting of adjustment member 414, the amount of wrap
of front flexible elements 406 around flexible element crank guides
372 changes. As the vertical location of front end flexible element
mounts 398 rises from L1 toward L2, the amount of wrap increases
which, in turn, changes the path of front flexible elements
406.
[0116] Each front flexible element 406 interfaces with a
corresponding rear flexible element 404 at a torque bar 359. Front
flexible element 406R wraps around and attaches to the torque bar
inboard flexible element mount 401R. Rear flexible element 404R
wraps around and attaches to torque bar outboard flexible element
mount 400R. Rotation of the torque bars 359 around cross-shaft 349
translate movement between front flexible element 406 and rear
flexible element 404. The total path length of each combination of
front flexible element 406 and rear flexible element 404 remains
essentially unchanged. A change in the position of the front
flexible element mount 398 will result in a corresponding change to
the position of foot pad flexible element mount 412, which
repositions foot pads 362.
[0117] Increasing the wrap angle of front flexible element 406
around flexible element crank guide 372 increases the mechanical
advantage of the user on the crank. Conversely, decreasing the wrap
angle reduces the mechanical advantage of the user on the crank. By
adjusting the position of front end flexible element mount 398, the
maximum height and/or the maximum depth to which foot pad 362 may
be raised or lowered may be adjusted. Likewise, the total range or
total travel distance through which foot pad 362 is moved may also
be adjusted
[0118] Adjustment member 414 can be pivoted to a continuum of
different positions and may be retained in any one position along
the continuum. In other embodiments, adjustment member 414 may
alternatively rotate between a multitude of distinct discrete
spaced positions at various predetermined angles about its pivot
point. In such an alternative embodiment, notches, detents or other
retention mechanism may be used to define the distinct spaced
positions at which adjustment member 414 may be retained.
[0119] Actuator 416 comprises a mechanism configured to move
adjustment member 414. In the example illustrated, actuator 416
comprises a powered actuator driven by electrical power. In one
embodiment, actuator 416 comprises an electric powered motor
configured to drive a worm or lead screw arrangement to generate
linear translation so as to rotate adjustment member 414 about axis
374. In yet another embodiment, actuator 416 may comprise an
electric motor, such as a stepper motor, servomotor and the like,
directly connected to a shaft secured to adjustment member 414
along axis 374 or connected to a shaft secured to adjustment member
414 by speed reducing device or gear train to selectively rotate
adjustment member 414. In still other embodiments, actuator 416 may
comprise electric solenoid or a hydraulic or a pneumatic
piston-cylinder assembly operably coupled to adjustment member 414
so as to rotate adjustment member 414.
[0120] According to one embodiment, powered actuator 416
repositions adjustment member 414 to adjust the step height in
response to control signals from a controller 446 associated with
interface panel 523. In one embodiment, such adjustment may be in
response to a person depressing a button, sliding a slider bar,
actuating a switch, entering a voice command to voice recognition
software through microphone or other input. In another embodiment,
such adjustment may be in accordance with a pre-programmed or
predetermined exercise routine stored in memory, wherein the step
height is to be adjusted during an exercise routine. Because such
adjustment is powered and does not require a person to detach or
disassemble any portion of fitness equipment unit 322, such
adjustment may be made "on-the-fly" during exercise as foot pads
362 are moving along a path. In other words, an exercise routine or
workout need not be interrupted.
[0121] In other embodiments, actuator 416 may alternatively
comprise a non-powered actuator. For example, actually 416 may
alternatively be configured to be manually powered, wherein force
or motion applied by a person is mechanically transmitted to
adjustment member 414 to reposition adjustment member 414. After
adjustment, adjustment member 414 may be retained in place by one
or more hooks, clamps, catches, detents or friction surfaces.
[0122] Although adjustment member 414 is illustrated as being
rotated so as to reposition end mounts 398 and so as to adjust the
step height of fitness equipment unit 322, in other embodiments,
the positioning of end mounts 398 may be adjusted in other
fashions. For example, in another embodiment, end mounts 398 may
alternatively be linearly movable or configured to slide or
translate between different positions relative to frame 324 and
relative to crank flexible element guides 372.
[0123] Horizontal resistance system 340 comprises a system
configured to apply additional resistance to or against horizontal
movement of foot support members 360 and footpads 362. FIGS. 21-23
illustrate horizontal resistance system 340 in more detail. FIG. 10
is a rear view of fitness equipment unit 322 with parts removed to
reveal a rear view of horizontal resistance system 340. In the
example illustrated, horizontal resistance system 340 is attached
to the rearward side of front post 352 in an essentially vertical
arrangement such that portions of resistance system 340 rotate
about one or more horizontal axes. Such arrangement provides a more
compact and efficient design of fitness equipment unit 322. In
other embodiments, resistance system 340 may be attached to a
different side of front post 352 or to another portion of frame
324.
[0124] Horizontal resistance system 340 connecting elements 428R,
428L (collectively referred to as connecting elements 428, upper
element mounts 426R, 426L (collectively referred to as upper
element mounts 426), lower element mounts 427R, 427L (collectively
referred to as lower element mounts 427), resistance source 430 and
rocker 424.
[0125] Connecting elements 428 comprise rigid linkages or rods.
Each of connecting elements 428 has an upper end attached to one of
upper element mounts 426 and a lower end attached to one of lower
element mounts 427 eccentrically located on rocker 424. Element
428R is attached to mounts 426R and 427R. Element 428L is attached
to mounts 426L and 427L. Upper element mounts 426 are attached to
hubs 361 associated with linkage assemblies 326. Lower element
mounts 427 are operably connected to rocker 424. In the example
illustrated, mounts 426 and 427 comprise swivel, universal or pivot
joints or the like. Linkage assemblies 326 rotate in opposite
directions in response to the forces imposed by upon swing arms 327
and foot supports 360 by the person exercising. As one of linkage
assemblies 326 rotates in a clockwise direction as viewed from the
left side of fitness equipment unit 322, the upper element mount
426 attached to that linkage assembly 326 correspondingly rotates.
The rotation raises the vertical position of element mount 426 and
creates upward force on and movement of the element 428 attached to
the element mount 426. The upward movement of element 428 results
in corresponding movement of lower element mount 427. The movement
of lower element mount 427 creates movement of rocker 424, which is
operably connected to resistance source 430. In other embodiments,
mounts 426 may be secured to other portions of linkage assemblies
326.
[0126] Rocker 424 and belt 422 operably connect elements 428 to
resistance source 430. Rocker 424 is rotationally driven upon
movement of elements 428 against the resistance provided by
resistance source 430.
[0127] Resistance source 430 comprises a mechanism configured to
rotate against a selectively adjustable resistance. In one
embodiment, resistance source 430 comprises a metal plate and one
or more magnets forming an Eddy brake. In one embodiment, the one
or more magnets comprise electromagnets, allowing the strength of
the magnetic force to be selectively adjusted to control and vary
the resistance applied against the rotation of hubs 361 of linkage
assemblies 326. In another embodiment, resistance source 430 may
comprise an electric generator. In still another embodiment,
resistance source 430 may comprise two surfaces in frictional
contact with one another so as to generate resistance against
rotation of hubs 361. In another embodiment, air brakes may be
utilized. In still other embodiments, other brakes or resistance
mechanisms may be utilized. In one embodiment, the resistance
applied by horizontal resistance source 430 may be selectively
adjusted by a person using fitness equipment unit 322. In one
embodiment, the resistance may be adjusted in response to control
signals generated by controller 446 associated with interface panel
523 in response to input from a person exercising or in response to
a stored exercise routine or workout. In still other embodiments,
horizontal resistance system 340 may be omitted.
[0128] Interface panel 523 comprises a mechanism facilitating
interface between fitness equipment unit 322 and a person
exercising. As schematically shown by FIG. 17, interface panel 523
comprises display 32, identity input 34, selector input 36, payment
input 38, control instructions 40, subscription database 42 and
controller 44 (each of which is described above with respect to
FIG. 1).
[0129] During use of fitness equipment unit 322, a person mounts
platform 348 while generally grasping side arms 356. While
continuing to grasp side arms 356, a person then mounts foot pads
362. The person exercising then inputs via inputs 440 desired
workout or exercise routine or selects a pre-stored workout or
exercise routine. In response to such inputs, controller 446 may
generate control signals adjusting the amount of resistance applied
by resistance sources 392 and 430. In addition, controller 446 may
generate control signals causing powered actuator 416 to reposition
front end flexible element mounts 398 to adjust the step height.
During the exercise routine, person exercising may decide to adjust
his or her stride or the path of his or her stride. This is
achieved by the person simply applying a different force to footpad
362 and linkage assemblies 326. In addition, the person exercising
may decide to increase or decrease the step height. To do this,
person may simply enter a change using input 440, wherein
controller 446 generates control signals causing actuator 416 to
reposition adjustment member 414 to adjust the step height. As
noted above, this adjustment may be made on the fly during
exercise. In other embodiments, controller 446 may automatically
adjust the resistance applied by one or both of resistance sources
392 and 430 as well as the step height controlled by step height
adjustment mechanism 338 in accordance with stored exercise routine
or workout. Such changes may be made based upon the lapse of time
from the beginning of the workout, based upon time remaining in the
workout, based upon sensed biometrics of the person exercising or
based upon predetermined speed, force or motion path objectives or
targets being met or not being met. Because fitness equipment unit
322 enables the maximum step height or maximum step depth to be
automatically adjusted by controller 446 or to be adjusted by a
person during exercise, fitness equipment unit 322 provides more
flexible or versatile exercise options and a more enjoyable
workout.
[0130] As described above, interface panel 523 (shown in FIG. 1)
includes control instructions 40, subscription database 42 and
controller 44. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 1, control
instructions 40 comprise instructions or control logic embodied as
firmware or software in one or more memory structures. Control
instructions 40 provide instructions for controller 44. Control
instructions 40 comprise different blocks, modules or sets of
control programming or routines for the operation of fitness
equipment unit 322. In the example illustrated, control
instructions 40 comprises base mode instructions 50 and optional or
supplemental feature instructions 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E (shown in
FIG. 1).
[0131] Base mode instructions 50 comprise computer readable
programming or instructions for controller 44 so as to control the
operation of fitness equipment unit 322 in a default or baseline
mode of operation. The baseline mode of operation is a minimum are
default operation characteristics for the particular fitness
equipment unit 22: the minimum number of paths or ranges of motion,
the minimum visual presentations to be presented on display 32 and
generally the minimum overall user experience. In one embodiment,
absent a subscription plan with any additional supplemental
features, controller 44 operates fitness equipment unit 22A or 22B
in the base mode. In another embodiment, a baseline subscription
plan may include the base mode of operation operating under base
mode instructions 50, but not any additional supplemental features
which would be provided by supplemental feature instructions
52.
[0132] Supplemental feature instructions 52 comprise computer
readable programming or instructions so as to control the operation
of fitness equipment units 22 with one or more additional
supplemental features. Such supplemental features may either
replace the base mode features with enhanced features or may add to
or build upon the features provided by the base mode of operation.
According to one embodiment, such supplemental features are
purchasable by the health fitness facility member or user as part
of a prescription plan upgrade. The supplemental features may
upgrade the operation of display 32, increasing the available
content or interactive features or the overall visual presentation
quantity presented by controller 44 on display 32 or may upgrade
the operation of force receiving members (footpad 326 and their
associated linkages), providing a greater range of motion,
additional paths, additional or alternative resistance options and
the like. In one example embodiment, base mode 50 may comprise a
setting wherein height adjustment member 414 (shown in FIG. 7) is
stationary or fixed such that height adjustment is not offered,
wherein optional or upgradable supplemental feature 52A allows
adjustment of the positioning of just member 414 such that height
adjustments may be made. In another embodiment, supplemental
features may include additional adjustment ranges for height. In
some embodiments, supplemental features may include different
selectable levels or types of resistance against vertical movement,
horizontal movement or both. In some embodiments, other optional
features may be provided in control instructions 40.
[0133] Subscription database 42 comprises a database of current
subscription plans 54A, 54B, 54C, 54D, 54E (collectively referred
to as subscription plans 54 and shown in FIG. 1) for different
potential users of the associated fitness equipment unit 322. In
one embodiment, subscription database 42 may additionally include a
database of different available subscription plans or features that
may be purchased along with their associated prices (schematically
represented by subscription plan 56). Each subscription plan may
include access to or make available the base mode and one or more
supplemental features as provided by base mode instruction 50 and
supplemental feature instructions 52 under the control of
controller 44.
[0134] In another embodiment, the prepurchased quantity may be
defined in terms of a metric on the fitness equipment unit itself.
For example, each subscription plan 54, 56 may include a
prepurchased number of miles. In yet other embodiments, the
subscription plan 54, 56 may include a pre-purchased quantity
relating to wear of the fitness equipment unit 322. In such a
manner, the cost of prescription plan could be directly tied to
maintenance, repair or replacement of the fitness equipment unit
being used.
[0135] In yet another embodiment, the subscription plan 54, 56 may
include a pre-purchased or predefined universal time period or
range for which the particular fitness equipment unit 322 is
available for use. For example, the subscription plan may provide
user with access to the particular fitness equipment unit on
particular days of the week, such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday,
only on weekends, during particular hours of each day (8 AM to 11
AM), or during particular hours on selected days (8 AM to 11 AM on
Monday Wednesday and Friday, 2 PM to 3 PM on Saturday and 8 PM to
10 PM on Sunday). With such subscription plans 54, 56, prime times
or more busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit 22A, 22B
may have a higher subscription price while less prime times or less
busy times for fitness equipment unit 322 may be provided with a
lower subscription price. As a result, available time for use of
fitness equipment unit 322 may be allotted at different prices to
different users to accommodate different budgets or price points
for different users while the same time maximizing income from the
fitness equipment unit 322.
[0136] Subscription database 42 is stored in a memory structure
embodied in fitness equipment unit 322. In other embodiments where
similar subscription databases are maintained elsewhere, such as
subscription manager 24, subscription database 42 may be omitted as
part of the particular fitness equipment unit 322. Although
description database 42 is illustrated as including or storing
current subscription plans for six users, U1-U6, subscription plans
may be enlarged or reduced in size in other embodiments.
[0137] Controller 44 comprise one or more processing units provided
as part of fitness equipment unit 322 configured to follow
instructions, contained in control instructions 40 and based in
part upon the current subscription plan for the current member
exercising on fitness equipment unit 322, to control the operation
of force receiving members 30 and display 32.
[0138] In operation according to one embodiment, controller 44
awaits receipt of input or information from identification input 34
identifying a member of the fitness facility or person requesting
to use fitness equipment unit 322. Upon receipt of the
identification input, controller 44 accesses subscription database
42 and retrieves the current or active subscription plan 54
associated with the particular user. In some embodiments, a "user"
may comprise an individual person. In other embodiments, a "user"
may comprise an organization or a collective group of individuals
who may have purchased a common subscription plan together as a
group possibly at a reduced price.
[0139] Once the appropriate subscription plan for the particular
user that was identified by the identifying input received from
identification input 34 has been retrieved by controller 44,
controller 44 generate control signals causing display 32 to
present a paid subscription status of the user that identifies
those features or options currently available in the current
subscription plan. Controller 44 follows by awaiting input from
selector input 36 identifying which of the available supplemental
features that the individual exercising wishes to use during the
exercise session. Upon receiving the user's selection, controller
44 accesses the associated control instructions 50 and/or 52
containing instructions 40. Controller 44 generate control signals
controlling one or more of display 32, step height adjustment
mechanism 338 of the various variable and adjustable resistance
sources based upon the selection.
[0140] FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate fitness equipment unit 520,
another example embodiment of FEU 22A or 22B. Fitness Equipment
unit 520 includes frame 522, interface panel 523, guide 524, foot
links 526, swing arms 528, connection linkages 530 and interface
panel 532. Frame 522 comprises one or more structures configured to
support the remaining structures are components of exercise device
520 relative to a wall or floor. In the particular example
illustrated, frame 522 includes a generally horizontal portion 534,
a vertical portion 536, stabilizer portions 537, 538 and swing arm
supports 540. Horizontal portion 534 extends along a floor or other
support surface while vertical portion 536 extends upwardly from
horizontal portion 534. Horizontal portion 534 supports guide 524
while portion 536 supports swing arms 528 and interface panel
532.
[0141] Stabilizer portions 537, 538 transversely extend outwardly
from horizontal portion 534 to stabilize and support horizontal
portion 534. In the example illustrated, stabilizer portion 537 is
located at a rear 600 of frame 522 while stabilizer portion 538 is
proximate a front 602 of frame 522. In other embodiments,
stabilizer portions 537, 538 may have other configurations, may be
provided in other locations along frame 522 or may be omitted.
[0142] Swing arm supports 540 transversely project from vertical
portion 536 proximate to front 602 of frame 522. Swing arm supports
540 pivotably support swing arms 528 for pivotable or rotational
movement about axis 548. In particular embodiments, swing arm
supports 540 may apply a selected and controlled varying resistance
to pivotal movement of swing arms 528. In other embodiments, this
feature may be omitted.
[0143] Guide 524 comprises an arrangement of one or more structures
or one or more mechanisms configured to facilitate movement of foot
links 526 relative to frame 522 in one or more paths or manners.
Guide 524 controls movement of foot links 526 such that motion or
movement of foot links 526 has a reciprocating component. In the
embodiment illustrated, guide 524 is configured such that foot
links 526 reciprocate in an alternating fashion with respect to one
another generally towards and away from interface panel 532 in
forward and rearward directions. In the example illustrated, guide
524 is configured such that rearward portions of foot links 526 are
constrained to move in an orbital path such that the overall motion
of foot links 526 is elliptical.
[0144] As shown in more detail by FIG. 13, guide 524 includes
orbital mechanism 610, guide tracks 612 and engagement rollers 614.
Orbital mechanism 610 comprises a mechanism operably connected to
rearward portions of foot links 526 and configured so as to
constrain movement of rear portions of foot links 526 in an orbital
path. In the embodiment illustrated, orbital mechanism 610
comprises a flywheel 616 rotationally supported about a central
axis 617 and a pair of crank arms 618, wherein one of the crank
arms 616, 618 has a first end rotationally supported about the
central axis 617 and a second end rotationally connected to one of
foot links 526 and wherein the other of the crank arms 616, 618 has
a first end rotationally supported about the central axis and a
second end rotationally connected to the other of foot links 526.
An example orbital mechanism 610 is described in co-pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 11/054,376, published on Aug. 24, 2006
as publication US 2006/0189445, the full disclosure of which is
hereby incorporated by reference.
[0145] As further shown by FIG. 13, in the example embodiment
illustrated, orbital mechanism 610 additionally includes resistance
supply 620. Resistance supply 620 is operably coupled to flywheel
616 via a belt or pulley 622. Resistance supply 620 provides
resistance against the rotation a flywheel 616 about axis 617. In
the example illustrated resistance supply 620 comprises a friction
brake assembly configured to be adjusted or set at different levels
of friction, allowing a user to select a degree a resistance that
he or she must overcome during exercise. In other embodiments,
resistance supply 620 may have other configurations or may be
omitted.
[0146] Guide tracks 612 comprise elongate surfaces proximate a
forward end of foot links 526 and configured to guide and direct
reciprocal movement of a forward end of foot links 526. In the
embodiment illustrated down a guide tracks 612 are inclined. For
example, in one embodiment, guide tracks 612 are inclined at
approximately 30 degrees. Guide tracks 612 receive engagement
rollers 614.
[0147] Engagement rollers 614 comprise rollers rotationally
supported at forward portion of foot links 526. Engagement rollers
614 are configured to roll and move along their respective guide
tracks 612. Guide tracks 612 and engagement rollers 614 cooperate
with one another to retain engagement rollers 614 relative to guide
tracks 612 in a reliable, compact and less complex manner.
[0148] Each foot link 526 comprises one or more structures
configured to engage a person's leg or foot such that movement of
the person's leg or foot causes movement of foot link 526. In the
embodiment illustrated, each foot link 526 includes a support 630
and a foot rest 632. Support 630 comprises an elongate bar, rod or
otherwise rigid structure having a forward end 624 supporting
engagement roller 614 and a rear end 626 connected to orbital
mechanism 610. Each foot rest 632 comprises a pedal or other
surface upon which a person may place his or her foot to transfer
force to foot link 526. In one embodiment, foot rests 632 are
configured to form toe straps and/or toe and heel cups which aid in
forward motion recovery at the end of a rearward or forward
striding motion of a user's foot.
[0149] As shown by FIG. 12, swing arms 528 comprise one or more
structures configured to be gripped by a person's hand and to be
reciprocated to exercise a person's arms and upper body. Each swing
arm 528 includes a gripping portion 542, an intermediate portion
544 pivotably connected to support 540 of frame 522 and an end
portion 546 pivotably connected to connection link 530. Gripping
portion 542 comprises that portion of swing arm 528 configured to
be grasped or gripped by a person's hand. Intermediate portion 544
facilitates pivotal movement of swing arm 528 about the
substantially horizontal axis 548. Although swing arms 528 are
illustrated as being bowed, in other embodiments, swing arms 528
may have other shapes, relative dimensions and configurations.
[0150] Each connection link 530 comprises one or more segments or
links configured to connect foot link 526 and swing arm 528 such
that movement of foot link 526 and swing arm 528 is coordinated. In
one embodiment, connection link 530 is configured and appropriately
connected to foot link 526 and swing arm 528 such that when foot
link 526 is moving forwardly (towards interface panel 523), swing
arm 528 is moving rearwardly. When foot link 526 is moving
rearwardly, swing arm 528 is moving forwardly. In other words, when
foot link 526 is in a forward most position, the connection between
connection link 530 and swing arm 528 is on an opposite side of
axis 548 as gripping portion 542. In some embodiments, connection
links 530 may be disconnected from either foot links 526 or swing
arms 528. In still other embodiments, connection links 530 may be
omitted, wherein swing arms 528 swing independent of foot links 526
or are stationary.
[0151] Interface panel 523 comprises an electronic device
configured to interface with a person using exercise device 520. In
one embodiment, interface 123 facilitates input of instructions or
commands by the person or from an external source. Such commands
may be used to set or establish levels of resistance, speed or
other settings to vary or control work out parameters. In one
embodiment, interface 123 may additionally or alternatively be
configured to provide the person with information or feedback
regarding the current workout. Interface 523 is additionally
configured to provide a person using exercise device 520 with
information regarding exercise goals, past workouts, recommended
settings or entertainment information, such as news, videos or
music. In one embodiment, interface panel 523 may be configured to
communicate with other external electronic devices, such as other
computers, servers or portable devices in a wired or wireless
fashion.
[0152] Similar to interface panel 342, interface panel 523 (shown
in FIG. 12) includes control instructions 40, subscription database
42 and controller 44. As discussed above with respect to FIG. 1,
control instructions 40 comprise instructions or control logic
embodied as firmware or software in one or more memory structures.
Control instructions 40 provide instructions for controller 44.
Control instructions 40 comprise different blocks, modules or sets
of control programming or routines for the operation of fitness
equipment unit 322. In the example illustrated, control
instructions 40 comprises base mode instructions 50 and optional or
supplemental feature instructions 52A, 52B, 52C, 52D, 52E (shown in
FIG. 1).
[0153] Base mode instructions 50 comprise computer readable
programming or instructions for controller 44 so as to control the
operation of fitness equipment unit 322 in a default or baseline
mode of operation. The baseline mode of operation is a minimum are
default operation characteristics for the particular fitness
equipment unit 520: the minimum number of paths or ranges of
motion, the minimum visual presentations to be presented on display
32 and generally the minimum overall user experience. In one
embodiment, absent a subscription plan with any additional
supplemental features, controller 44 operates fitness equipment
unit 22A or 22B in the base mode. In another embodiment, a baseline
subscription plan may include the base mode of operation operating
under base mode instructions 50, but not any additional
supplemental features which would be provided by supplemental
feature instructions 52.
[0154] Supplemental feature instructions 52 comprise computer
readable programming or instructions so as to control the operation
of fitness equipment units 22 with one or more additional
supplemental features. Such supplemental features may either
replace the base mode features with enhanced features or may add to
or build upon the features provided by the base mode of operation.
According to one embodiment, such supplemental features are
purchasable by the health fitness facility member or user as part
of a prescription plan upgrade. The supplemental features may
upgrade the operation of display 32, increasing the available
content or interactive features or the overall visual presentation
quantity presented by controller 44 on display 32 (as described
above) or may upgrade the operation of force receiving members
(footpad 232 and their associated linkages), providing a greater
range of motion, additional or alternative resistance options and
the like. In some embodiments, supplemental features may include
different selectable levels or types of resistance against vertical
movement, horizontal movement or both. In some embodiments, other
optional features may be provided in control instructions 40.
[0155] In one embodiment, each subscription plan 54, 56 may
additionally include a pre-purchased quantity relating to the use
of fitness equipment unit 520. For example, each subscription plan
54, 56 may additionally include a prepurchased number of hours that
the subscriber may use a particular fitness equipment unit 520. The
hours quantity may be a total number of hours which is gradually
consumed by a subscriber during use of the fitness pivot unit or
may be a total number of hours during a predefined time period
(e.g., 5 hours per week; 15 hours per month; 5 hours per calendar
week; 15 hours per calendar year).
[0156] In yet another embodiment, the subscription plan 54, 56 may
include a pre-purchased or predefined universal time period or
range for which the particular fitness equipment unit 520 is
available for use. For example, the subscription plan may provide
user with access to the particular fitness equipment unit on
particular days of the week, such as Monday, Wednesday and Friday,
only on weekends, during particular hours of each day (8 AM to 11
AM), or during particular hours on selected days (8 AM to11 AM on
Monday Wednesday and Friday, 2 PM to 3 PM on Saturday and 8 PM to
10 PM on Sunday). With such subscription plans 54, 56, prime times
or more busy times for a particular fitness equipment unit 520 may
have a higher subscription price while less prime times or less
busy times for fitness equipment unit 520 may be provided with a
lower subscription price. As a result, available time for use of
fitness equipment unit 520 may be allotted at different prices to
different users to accommodate different budgets or price points
for different users while the same time maximizing income from the
fitness equipment unit 322.
[0157] Subscription database 42 is stored in a memory structure
embodied in fitness equipment unit 322. In other embodiments where
similar subscription databases are maintained elsewhere, such as
subscription manager 24, subscription database 42 may be omitted as
part of the particular fitness equipment unit 520. Although
description database 42 is illustrated as including or storing
current subscription plans for six users, U1-U6, subscription plans
may be enlarged or reduced in size in other embodiments.
[0158] Controller 44 comprise one or more processing units provided
as part of fitness equipment unit 322 configured to follow
instructions, contained in control instructions 40 and based in
part upon the current subscription plan for the current member
exercising on fitness equipment unit 322, to control the operation
of force receiving members 232 and display 32.
[0159] Once the appropriate subscription plan for the particular
user that was identified by the identifying input received from
identification input 34 has been retrieved by controller 44,
controller 44 generate control signals causing display 32 to
present a paid subscription status of the user that identifies
those features or options currently available in the current
subscription plan. Controller 44 follows by awaiting input from
selector input 36 identifying which of the available supplemental
features that the individual exercising wishes to use during the
exercise session. Upon receiving the user's selection, controller
44 accesses the associated control instructions 50 and/or 52
containing instructions 40. Controller 44 generates control signals
controlling display 32 and adjusts resistance sources based upon
the selection.
[0160] Although the present disclosure has been described with
reference to example embodiments, workers skilled in the art will
recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without
departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter.
For example, although different example embodiments may have been
described as including one or more features providing one or more
benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be
interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one
another in the described example embodiments or in other
alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the present
disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology
are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to
the example embodiments and set forth in the following claims is
manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless
specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single
particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular
elements.
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