U.S. patent application number 14/167604 was filed with the patent office on 2014-05-29 for systems and methods for facilitating group activities.
This patent application is currently assigned to Apple Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Apple Inc.. Invention is credited to Robert Edward Borchers, Sarah A. Brody, Jesse Lee Dorogusker, Glenn Gregory Gilley, Donald Ginsburg, Mihnea Calin Pacurariu, Randall Hayes Ubillos.
Application Number | 20140149235 14/167604 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39226303 |
Filed Date | 2014-05-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140149235 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gilley; Glenn Gregory ; et
al. |
May 29, 2014 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR FACILITATING GROUP ACTIVITIES
Abstract
Methods and systems for providing a lifestyle companion system
are provided. The lifestyle companion system can provide a platform
to conduct a user interview. Based on the user interview responses,
the system can suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in
modules. During performance of activities, the system can provide
audio and/or visual cues related to the activities and collect data
indicative of the user's performance. Based on the collected data,
the system can dynamically adapt the user's goals and/or activities
the user is performing or will perform. In some embodiments of the
present invention, the lifestyle companion system of the present
invention can be applied to fitness, nutrition, and/or medical
modules. The system also can be used to facilitate synchronous
group activities.
Inventors: |
Gilley; Glenn Gregory; (Los
Altos, CA) ; Brody; Sarah A.; (Santa Clara, CA)
; Ubillos; Randall Hayes; (Los Altos, CA) ;
Pacurariu; Mihnea Calin; (Los Gatos, CA) ;
Dorogusker; Jesse Lee; (Los Altos, CA) ; Borchers;
Robert Edward; (Pleasanton, CA) ; Ginsburg;
Donald; (San Francisco, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Apple Inc. |
Cupertino |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Apple Inc.
Cupertino
CA
|
Family ID: |
39226303 |
Appl. No.: |
14/167604 |
Filed: |
January 29, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13850811 |
Mar 26, 2013 |
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14167604 |
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11729131 |
Mar 27, 2007 |
8429223 |
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13850811 |
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60846414 |
Sep 21, 2006 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/15 ;
705/347 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 50/12 20130101;
G16H 20/70 20180101; H04N 9/87 20130101; G06Q 30/02 20130101; G06Q
30/0282 20130101; G09B 19/0092 20130101; G16H 20/60 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/15 ;
705/347 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/02 20060101
G06Q030/02; G06Q 50/12 20060101 G06Q050/12 |
Claims
1.-29. (canceled)
30. A portable media device comprising: a first communication
module for accepting first food provider data from a first food
provider and for accepting second food provider data from a second
food provider; first memory for storing a user nutritional profile
of a user; and a first controller configured to suggest that the
user patronize the first food provider based on the user
nutritional profile, the first food provider data, and the second
food provider data.
31. The portable media device of claim 30, wherein: the first food
provider data is related to a first plurality of nutritional
activities; the second food provider data is related to a second
plurality of nutritional activities; and the portable media device
further comprises a second controller configured to suggest a
current nutritional activity of the first plurality of nutritional
activities to the user based on the user nutritional profile and
the first food provider data.
32. The portable media device of claim 31, further comprising: a
second communication module for accepting sensor data indicative of
the user's performance metrics of the current activity; a second
memory for storing first and second adjustable parameter values
respectively associated with first and second activities of a
nutrition program, wherein at least one of the first and second
adjustable parameter values comprises an adjustable nutrition
parameter value; and a second controller configured to adjust at
least one of the first and second adjustable parameter values based
on the sensor data.
33. The portable media device of claim 30, wherein: the first food
provider comprises a first restaurant; the first food provider data
comprises a menu of the first restaurant; the second food provider
comprises a second restaurant; and the second food provider data
comprises a menu of the second restaurant.
34. A portable media device comprising: a first communication
module for accepting food provider data from a food provider,
wherein the food provider data is related to a plurality of
nutritional activities; first memory for storing a user nutritional
profile of a user; a second communication module for accepting a
secondary nutritional profile of a partner of the user; and a first
controller configured to suggest a current nutritional activity of
the plurality of nutritional activities to the user based on the
user nutritional profile, the secondary nutritional profile, and
the food provider data.
35. The portable media device of claim 34, further comprising: a
third communication module for accepting sensor data indicative of
the user's performance metrics of the current activity; a second
memory for storing first and second adjustable parameter values
respectively associated with first and second activities of a
nutrition program, wherein at least one of the first and second
adjustable parameter values comprises an adjustable nutrition
parameter value; and a second controller configured to adjust at
least one of the first and second adjustable parameter values based
on the sensor data.
36. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the user
nutritional profile comprises data about at least one of the user's
medical conditions and the user's weight loss goals.
37. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the user
nutritional profile comprises data about the user's financial
allocation for nutritional needs.
38. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein: the food
provider data comprises a menu of the food provider; and the
current activity is a menu selection of the menu.
39. The portable media device of claim 38, wherein: the first
controller is configured to suggest the current activity by
providing a visual cue related to the menu selection; and the
visual cue comprises information on a suggested portion size of the
menu selection.
40. The portable media device of claim 38, wherein the food
provider is one of a restaurant and a grocery store.
41. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein: the user
nutritional profile comprises data about the user's financial
allocation for nutritional needs; the food provider data comprises
price information about the plurality of food provider nutritional
activities; and the first controller is configured to suggest the
current activity based on the user's financial allocation for
nutritional needs and the price information.
42. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the user
nutritional profile comprises data generated from interview
responses provided by the user.
43. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the partner of
the user comprises a dining partner of the user.
44. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the user
nutritional profile is based on the user's response to a first user
interview, and wherein the secondary nutritional profile is based
on the partner's response to at least a portion of the first user
interview.
45. The portable media device of claim 34, wherein the sensor data
is representative of a characteristic of a food item that is at
least one of purchased by the user and eaten by the user.
46. The portable media device of claim 45, wherein the
characteristic is at least one of a nutritional category of the
food item, an amount of the food item, a calorie count of the food
item, and an ingredient of the food item.
47. The portable media device of claim 45, wherein the food item is
provided to the user by the food provider.
48. The portable media device of claim 35, wherein the third
communication module is configured to accept the sensor data by
scanning a barcode representative of a characteristic of a food
item that is at least one of purchased by the user and eaten by the
user.
49. The portable media device of claim 48, wherein the food item is
provided to the user by the food provider.
50. An electronic device comprising: a communication module
configured to accept food provider data from a food provider,
wherein the food provider data is related to a plurality of
nutritional activities; and a processor configured to: access a
user nutritional profile of a user; access a secondary nutritional
profile of another entity that is not the user; and suggest a
particular nutritional activity of the plurality of nutritional
activities to the user based on the user nutritional profile, the
secondary nutritional profile, and the food provider data.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application
No. 60/846,414 to Gilley et al., filed on Sep. 21, 2006 (referred
to below as "the incorporated provisional patent application"), the
entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0002] This also is related to:
[0003] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Gilley et al.,
filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "LIFESTYLE COMPANION SYSTEM,"
Attorney Docket No. 104677-0019-101/P4725US1 (referred to herein as
"the incorporated LIFESTYLE COMPANION document"), the entirety of
which is incorporated herein by reference;
[0004] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Gilley et al.,
filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING
AUDIO AND VISUAL CUES VIA A PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE," Attorney
Docket No. 104677-0019-102/P4725US2 (referred to herein as "the
incorporated AUDIO AND VISUAL CUES document"), the entirety of
which is incorporated herein by reference;
[0005] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Gilley et al.,
filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "DYNAMICALLY ADAPTIVE SCHEDULING
SYSTEM," Attorney Docket No. 104677-0019-103/P4735US3 (referred to
herein as "the incorporated ADAPTIVE SCHEDULING SYSTEM document"),
the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference;
[0006] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Gilley et al.,
filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "VARIABLE I/O INTERFACE FOR
PORTABLE MEDIA DEVICE," Attorney Docket No.
104677-0025-101/P4732US1 (referred to herein as "the incorporated
VARIABLE I/O document"), the entirety of which is incorporated
herein by reference;
[0007] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Gilley et al.,
filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "REWARDS SYSTEMS," Attorney Docket
No. 104677-0022-101/P4727US1 (referred to herein as "the
incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document"), the entirety of which is
incorporated herein by reference; and
[0008] U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ to Dorogusker et
al., filed on Mar. 27, 2007, entitled "INTEGRATED SENSORS FOR
TRACKING PERFORMANCE METRICS," Attorney Docket No.
104677-0035-101/P4768US1 (referred to herein as "the incorporated
INTEGRATED SENSORS document"), the entirety of which is
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0009] The present invention can generally relate to a lifestyle
companion system. More particularly, the present invention can
relate to a system that coordinates multiple corridors of
experiences in a person's life.
[0010] Conventional systems typically focus only on one aspect of a
person's experiences. Conventional systems typically do not
intelligently integrate multiple aspects of a person's experiences.
For example, a typical piece of software may be implemented to
measure a user's heart rate during an exercise routine. But, that
software typically cannot coordinate the heart rate information to
the user's general fitness goals, nor intelligently use that
information to assist the user in reaching his goals.
[0011] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a system that
can bridge numerous corridors of experiences in a person's life and
coordinate them for maximum efficiency and enjoyment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] In accordance with one embodiment of the present invention,
a lifestyle companion system can be provided for coordinating
multiple corridors of a user's life. The lifestyle companion system
can include devices and methods for providing a platform for
conducting user interviews, suggesting activities and references
based on interview responses, providing a platform for a user to
schedule activities, collecting data about a user during
performance of activities or throughout the user's day, and/or
providing progress reports. The method also can include assigning
user category levels (e.g., activity levels) based on interview
responses. In some embodiments of the present invention, the
lifestyle companion system can coordinate a user's fitness,
nutrition, and medical experiences.
[0013] The lifestyle companion system can integrate user-selectable
plug-in modules that are focused on specialized topics. For
example, plug-in modules can be specialized for particular periods
in a child's development, students, expectant parents, new parents,
seniors, specific sports enthusiasts, food connoisseurs,
geographical regions, health conditions, holidays, etc. Each module
can have coordinating questionnaires, suggested activities,
suggested references, instructions, logging tools, audiobooks,
videos, podcasts and other types of activities or information
tailored for the specialty of the module.
[0014] In one embodiment of the present invention, user data can be
collected using a tracking device that stores the data itself or
transmits the data to a local server, a central server, a server
dedicated to storage of user profile information, or any
combination thereof. Tracking devices can include passive tracking
devices that require the user and/or another authorized entity to
manually enter user data, active tracking devices having sensors
that automatically gather data about the user and/or activities
performed by the user, or any combination thereof. In one
embodiment of the present invention, sensors of the active tracking
devices can be attached to the user (e.g., in clothing or
accessories) or disposed in equipment used by the user.
[0015] In one embodiment of the present invention, the tracking
device also can provide a user interface for the user to, e.g.,
access the user's profile. Information stored in the user's profile
can include medical information, the user's goals and progress
towards the goals, reference information, activity information, the
user's responses to the user interview, and any other information
related to the user's interaction with the lifestyle companion
system. Activity information can include, for example, media files
and adjustable parameters associated with an activity.
[0016] In one embodiment of the present invention, media (e.g.,
audio and/or visual) cues can be provided to the user during the
user's performance of activities. Audio and visual cues can
include, for example, instructions for the activity, feedback on a
user's progress, motivational feedback, and/or entertainment
information. The media cues can be played at predetermined points
during an activity, based on performance metrics, or at the
initiation of the user. Visual cues can include graphical
information (e.g., text, still images, and/or videos).
[0017] In one embodiment of the present invention, a user's
short-term and/or long-term goals and activities can be dynamically
adapted in response to data collected about the user. The data can
include that collected during a user's performance of an activity
(e.g., performance metrics), and/or collected about the user
throughout the user's day.
[0018] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can be used to coordinate group activities. Each
person in the group can be provided with a tracking device to
facilitate their performance of predetermined group activities. A
common activity file or complementary activity files can be loaded
onto each of the tracking devices and, in one embodiment of the
present invention, synchronized by a synchronization signal. Audio
and visual cues can be provided to the users in response to each
user's own performance metrics or the performance metrics of other
group members. Data can be collected about each user's performance,
individually and as a group. Responsive to such data, the lifestyle
companions system can adjust current or future activities of each
user and/or the group.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] The above and other advantages of the present invention will
be apparent upon consideration of the following detailed
description, taken in conjunction with accompanying drawings, in
which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout, and
in which:
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart for implementing a lifestyle
companion system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates hardware for the lifestyle companion
system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 3 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness welcome screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0023] FIG. 4 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
current fitness level screen in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention;
[0024] FIG. 5 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness interest screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0025] FIG. 6 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness goals screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0026] FIG. 7 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness schedule screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0027] FIG. 8 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness summary screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0028] FIG. 9 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
health history screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0029] FIG. 10 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
workout review screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention;
[0030] FIG. 11 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an
alternative workout review screen with a repetition feature in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0031] FIG. 12 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
user workout composition screen in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention;
[0032] FIG. 13 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
user workout composition screen having a media playlist menu in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0033] FIGS. 14-21 show illustrative graphic user interfaces during
playback of a workout compilation on a portable electronic device
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 22 shows an illustrative fitness system for
facilitating collection of data about a user's fitness performance
and adaptation of a fitness activity based on the collected data in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 23A shows an illustrative progress report in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 23B shows a portion of the illustrative progress report
of FIG. 23A after it is adapted based on the user's performance
metrics in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention;
[0037] FIG. 24 shows an illustrative flow chart for facilitating
synchronous group activities in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention; and
[0038] FIG. 25 shows an illustrative flow chart for implementing a
nutrition program with the lifestyle companion system in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0039] The present invention can include a lifestyle companion
system for coordinating multiple corridors of a user's life. The
lifestyle companion system can intelligently recommend lifestyle
choices and activities based on information and data collected
about the user. As described in greater detail below with respect
to FIG. 1, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform
for conducting user interviews, suggest activities and references
based on interview responses, provide a platform for a user to
schedule activities, collect data about a user during performance
of activities or throughout the user's day, and/or provide progress
reports. The system also can assign user category levels (e.g.,
activity levels) based on interview responses. Responsive to the
data collected about the user, the lifestyle companion system can
adjust or adapt a user's goals or activities.
[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart for implementing a lifestyle
companion system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. In step 100, the lifestyle companion system can provide
a platform for conducting user interviews.
[0041] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can request that the user input information about
the user's physical and mental health. Physical health information
can include information about the medications the user is taking,
the user's physical limitations, illnesses, medical conditions
(e.g., pregnancy), and/or risk factors. A health interview also can
address nutrition, weight, breathing metrics (e.g., breaths per
minute or some other related metric), relaxation and/or sleep.
Interview questions about nutrition and weight can address weight
goals and the user's current nutritional habits. Interview
questions about illnesses and medical conditions can address, e.g.,
sexually transmitted diseases, allergies and sinus problems,
asthma, arthritis, conditions related to the brain and nervous
system, cancer, cerebral palsy, chronic diseases, chronic pain,
diabetes, fatigue, fibromyalgia, headaches and migraines, heart
disease and cardiovascular issues, infections, joints and muscle
problems, liver conditions, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's
disease, respiratory conditions, surgery recovery, or any other
medical condition.
[0042] Interview topics also can be gender or age specific. A
women's health interview can address, for example, menopause,
pregnancy, fertility, etc. A men's health interview can address,
e.g., fertility, impotence, prostate concerns, etc. A children's
health interview can be divided into sub-categories, e.g., issues
related to infants and toddlers, children, and teenagers.
[0043] A mental health interview can address, for example, anxiety,
caregiving and coping, depression, and/or drug & alcohol
addiction.
[0044] The lifestyle companion system also can interview the user
about non-health related topics, e.g., spirituality/religion,
identity (e.g., sense of belonging), relationships, career,
financial condition, environment, hobbies, interests, other
personal information, and goals regarding the same. An identity
(sense of belonging) interview may address, for example, the
organizations to which the user belongs socially and/or
professionally. A relationships interview can address, for example,
the marital and/or familial status of the user. The relationship
interview also can address the quality of the user's relationships
with his/her family. A career interview can address, for example,
the length of time the user has worked in the present job, the
user's current occupational position, and/or the user's level of
enjoyment of the user's occupation. A finance interview can
address, for example, net wealth, credit situation, spending
habits, etc. An environment interview can address, for example, the
user's home, office, clothing, transportation, fitness memberships,
access to exercise equipment, etc.
[0045] Once the user completes the user interview provided in step
100, the lifestyle companion system can establish a user profile
for the user based on the user's interview responses. As the user's
lifestyle changes (e.g., the user's goals change or the user's
familial status changes), this profile can be updated by the user
at a later date by changing responses to the interview questions.
In response to updates to the user profile, the lifestyle companion
system can alter the activities, references, and plug-in modules
suggested (e.g., as described below with respect to step 104)
and/or adapt the user's goals or scheduled activities (e.g., as
described below with respect to step 112).
[0046] The user profile also can store user-associated information
generated by the lifestyle companion system in later steps. For
example, the user profile can store information related to
categories to which the user is assigned in step 102, activities
and references suggested by the lifestyle companion system in step
104, activities created by the user in step 105, data collected
about the user in step 110, and/or rewards distributed to the user
in step 111. The user profile can store information about
activities in activity files. In one embodiment, an activity file
can include, for example, adjustable parameters associated with an
activity, media files associated with the activity for providing
media cues to the user, and any other information related to the
activity.
[0047] In step 101, the lifestyle companion system can supplement
the user's profile with data from profiles of user-authorized
entities (e.g., relatives, doctor, therapist, fitness trainer,
etc.). For example, the user profile can be supplemented with data
from the profiles of family members so that the lifestyle companion
system can suggest medical activities (e.g., exams) and references
in step 104 based on a more accurate profile of potential genetic
health risks. The user's profile also can be supplemented with data
from the profiles of workout partners so that the lifestyle
companion system can suggest, for example, fitness activities that
are appropriate for the user and his workout partners. The user's
profile also can be supplemented with the profiles of dining
partners so that the lifestyle companion system can suggest, for
example, nutritional activities (e.g., recipes, restaurants, etc.)
that are appropriate for the user and his dining partners.
Illustrative nutrition-based applications of the present invention
are described in greater detail with respect to FIG. 25.
[0048] As used herein, an entity is authorized by the user when the
user has granted the entity permission to obtain information from
the user's profile or transfer information into the user's profile.
For example, user-authorized entities can include a family member,
employer, physical therapist, psychologist, doctor, physical
trainer, coach, etc.
[0049] In step 102, the lifestyle companion system can assign or
associate certain categories to the user profile based on the
user's responses to the interview. For example, based on the user's
responses to fitness questions, the lifestyle companion system can
assign an activity level to the user's profile, e.g., beginner,
intermediate, or advanced. Based on the assigned activity level,
the lifestyle companion system can later suggest fitness activities
in step 104 that are more suited to the fitness category assigned
to the user profile, and, thus, more suited to the capabilities of
the user.
[0050] In step 104, the lifestyle companion system can suggest
activities for the user based on the user's responses to the user
interview, either directly or indirectly (e.g., based on the
category level assigned in step 102). For example, if a user
provides information about alcohol addiction in the interview, the
lifestyle companion system can limit suggestions to activities that
may be alcohol-related and/or provide suggestions to alternatives
to alcohol-related activities. If a user indicates in the interview
that he/she is a single parent, the lifestyle companion system can
provide suggestions of activities to accommodate these
circumstances, such as more nutritious "eating out" options instead
of time-consuming home food preparation. If a user indicates in the
interview that he is diabetic, the lifestyle companion system can
suggest food choices that accommodate a low-sugar, low-carbohydrate
diet. If a user inputs into the system that he/she has an asthma
condition, the system can suggest hobbies or jobs in arid and
pollution-free areas.
[0051] In step 104, the lifestyle companion system also can suggest
references for the user to consult based directly or indirectly on
the user's interview responses. For example, the lifestyle
companion system can provide information and/or website links to
specialized counselors, support groups, or specialized
organizations that are tailored to the conditions indicated by the
user's interview responses.
[0052] The lifestyle companion system can provide access to one or
more of the suggested references via a personal webpage customized
for the user. The personal webpage also can include a journal,
blog, or secure data vault in which the user can store highly
sensitive data that can be accessed, e.g., via the internet by any
entity authorized by the user. The secure data vault can be
compartmentalized by topics, e.g., medical and alternative therapy
records, family health conditions, financial information, travel
documents, etc. The personal webpage also can permit a user to
store any other information in a data repository.
[0053] In step 104, the lifestyle companion system also can suggest
plug-in modules based directly or indirectly on the user's
interview responses. Plug-in modules can contain information
tailored for a specialized topic. For example, the modules can be
specialized for particular periods in a child's development,
students, expectant parents, new parents, seniors, specific sports
enthusiasts, food connoisseurs, geographical regions, health
conditions, themed or seasonal projects, mental wellness, life
satisfaction assessment and goal setting, etc.
[0054] In one embodiment of the present invention, plug-in modules
can be co-branded by third parties (e.g., content partners). For
example, for modules tailored to food connoisseurs, the information
contained in the module can be provided and co-branded by the Food
Network.
[0055] Each module can have coordinating questionnaires, suggested
activities, suggested references, instructions, logging tools,
podcasts and other types of activities or information tailored for
the specialty of the module.
[0056] The suggested modules can be offered to a user free of
charge or for purchase, e.g., from a media management and
distribution server similar to that offered under the trademark
iTunes.TM. by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.
[0057] Once a user selects desired plug-in modules, the modules can
be installed into a user's lifestyle companion system. For those
modules containing specialized questionnaires, the lifestyle
companion system can return to step 100 to continue the user
interview using the specialized questionnaire.
[0058] The lifestyle companion system also can be pre-loaded with
one or more plug-in modules, permit a user to search for and
download specific modules from a database, permit a user to
directly identify and download a plug-in module offered by a
user-authorized entity, and/or permit user-authorized entities to
download modules into the user profile.
[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, in step 104, the
lifestyle companion system can provide a selection of activities,
references, and plug-in modules from which the user can choose.
That selection can themselves be selected from a predetermined list
of activities, references, and plug-in modules provided or
pre-approved by the user or a user-authorized entity.
[0060] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system also can suggest activities, references, and/or
plug-in modules based on other information stored in the user's
profile, e.g., data the system collects about the user in step 110.
For example, if the lifestyle companion system collects data about
the user that indicates the user is in poor physical shape, the
lifestyle companion can suggest less physically-active activities
for the user in step 104, irrespective of the level of fitness the
user indicates in the user interview of step 100. The lifestyle
companion system also can suggest activities that a user has not
performed over a predetermined amount of time or that a user has
not performed satisfactorily, as indicated by the data previously
collected in accordance with step 110.
[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can suggest activities based on a pseudo-random
protocol. The lifestyle companion system can randomly suggest
activities within a certain category. For example, the system can
randomly suggest fitness activities adapted to the same muscle
group or type of exercise.
[0062] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can suggest activities based on the frequency in
which the user has performed the activities. For example, the
system can suggest activities that the user has not performed over
a predetermined amount of time. The system also can suggest
activities that the user frequently schedules based on the
assumption that the user enjoys those activities more.
[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can select suggested activities, references, and
plug-in modules from a database. The database can be stored, for
example, in a central server, local server, or a portable
electronic device, as discussed in greater detail below with
respect to FIG. 2.
[0064] In step 105, the lifestyle companion system can provide a
platform for the user to create activities. This can include
providing a platform for the user to download activities created by
a third party into the user's profile. Third parties can include
user-authorized entities (e.g., the user's doctor, personal fitness
trainer, physical therapist, friend, family member, real estate
agent, financial advisor, etc.) and/or companies that offer themed
and/or branded activities or compilations thereof (e.g., gyms,
television networks, diet plans, nutrition-oriented companies,
etc.). The third party activities can be can be offered to a user
free of charge or for purchase, e.g., from a media management and
distribution server similar to iTunes.TM..
[0065] Activities created by the user also can include
customizations of activities suggested by the lifestyle companion
system in step 104, customizations of activities created by third
parties, activities the user creates from scratch, or compilations
of activities that are suggested, customized, or otherwise created
by the user. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
lifestyle companion system can permit a user to customize an
activity by permitting the user to set the value of one or more
adjustable parameters associated with the activity. Adjustable
parameters of an activity are discussed in greater detail below.
Once the user has completed creating activities, the user can share
these activities with user-authorized entities, e.g., the user's
doctor, trainer, physical therapist, friend, etc.
[0066] In step 106, the lifestyle companion system can provide a
platform for the user to schedule one or more activities. The
lifestyle companion system can permit the user to choose from the
activities suggested in step 104 or created or downloaded by the
user in step 105. Activities created or downloaded by the user can
include activities that the user created or downloaded in step 105
or that the user has previously created or downloaded, e.g., from
previous sessions with the lifestyle companion system.
[0067] In step 108, the lifestyle companion system can assist or
motivate the user during performance of activities by providing
audio and/or visual cues, individually or simultaneously, that are
related to the activities. Audio and visual cues can include, for
example, instructions for an activity, feedback on a user's
progress, and/or motivational feedback. The cues can be pre-loaded
or dynamically built based on a user's performance metrics, as
determined from data collected in step 110. The media cues can be
intelligently mixed with entertainment media (e.g., music or video)
the user is playing during performance of a scheduled activity.
Visual cues can include text, still images, and/or videos.
[0068] In one embodiment of the present invention, performance
metrics can include metrics that track the amount or quality of a
fitness activity that a user has performed, physiological metrics
or rate of change thereof, or any combination thereof.
[0069] The media cues can be played at predetermined points during
an activity, at unscheduled points during an activity based on
performance metrics, or at the initiation of the user. For example,
when data collected about the user's performance in step 110
indicates that a user has run his/her fastest mile, the lifestyle
companion system can provide the user with audio and/or visual cues
indicating that he has achieved a personal best and congratulating
the user for reaching a particular performance metric. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the congratulatory cue can be
in the form of a predetermined song or a predetermined video that
the user has earned through his performance.
[0070] In step 110, the lifestyle companion system can collect
additional data about the user's performance of specific activities
and/or throughout the user's day. User data can be collected using
a tracking device that stores the data itself or transmits the data
to a local server, a central server, a server dedicated to storage
of user profile information, or any combination thereof. Tracking
devices can include passive tracking devices that require the user
and/or another authorized entity to manually enter user data,
active tracking devices that automatically log data about the user
and/or activities performed by the user, or any combination
thereof.
[0071] Active tracking devices for use with the methods and systems
according to the invention can include any electronic device
coupled to or incorporating sensors that can capture information
about a user, e.g., pedometers, devices having accelerometers,
heart rate monitors, oximeters, location-tracking (e.g., GPS)
devices, devices having temperature sensors, devices having heat
flux sensors, electrocardiogram devices, scales, glucometer
devices, devices having activity tracking sensors, any other
suitable tracking device useful for capturing data about a person's
activities, any other suitable tracking device useful for capturing
data about a person's physical or mental state, or any combination
thereof. In one embodiment of the present invention, the active
tracking device can include a portable media device operatively
coupled to sensors attached to the user (e.g., in clothing or
accessories) or in equipment used by the user. The sensors and
active tracking device also can be similar to those described in
the incorporated INTEGRATED SENSORS document.
[0072] The data collected in step 110 can be stored and thereafter
analyzed, for example, by analysis software, the user, or a
user-authorized entity. The data collected in step 110 also can be
used by the lifestyle companions in other steps of FIG. 1. For
example, the lifestyle companion system can change the category
level assigned to a user in step 102 based on the collected data.
The lifestyle companion system also can use the collected data to
suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules in step 104.
The lifestyle companion system also can use the collected data to
determine when to provide audio and/or visual cues to the user and
the type or content of the cues, e.g., as described with respect to
step 108. The lifestyle companion system also can use the collected
data to dynamically adapt a user's goals and/or activities in step
110.
[0073] To motivate the user to perform the scheduled activities,
the lifestyle companion system also can use the collected data to
distribute rewards to the user in step ill, e.g., in accordance
with the incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document and the incorporated
provisional patent application. For example, the lifestyle
companion system can distribute rewards to users based on the
user's performance metrics (over a period of time or during a
single activity). Rewards can include monetary rewards, rewards
points that can be exchanged for merchandise or services, access to
features or activities, or any other reward described in the
incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document and the incorporated
provisional patent application.
[0074] Data collected in step 110 also can be stored and shared
with authorized entities, e.g., the user's personal fitness
trainer, doctor, physical therapist, sports coach, etc.
[0075] In step 112, the lifestyle companion system can dynamically
adapt the user's short-term or long-term goals based on the data
collected in step 110. For example, if the collected data (e.g.,
sensor data) indicates that the user will not reach a target
performance metric based on his performance during an individual
workout (e.g., the number of calories burned), the lifestyle
companion system can temporarily reduce the target performance
metric to a level that is more attainable during the workout in
order to maintain the user's motivation. If the collected data
indicates that the user will not reach his fitness goals based on
his performance over multiple workouts, the lifestyle companion
system can adjust the user's long-term goals to a level that may be
more attainable for the user based on his past performance. Thus, a
user's goals can be adapted either immediately or over time. In one
embodiment of the present invention, a user's goals can be stored
as goal data in the user's profile and the present invention can
adapt the user's goals by adjusting the goal data.
[0076] In step 112, the lifestyle companion system also can
dynamically adapt the user's activities based on the data collected
in step 110. The lifestyle companion system can adjust a parameter
of a current or future activity based on the collected data. For
example, if the collected data indicates that the user will not
reach a target performance metric (e.g., target number of calories
burned or target heart rate) during a current fitness activity, the
lifestyle companion system can increase the intensity or duration
of the current fitness activity or a future fitness activity. If
the collected data indicates that the user experienced activity
levels over a predetermined period of time (e.g., during one day or
over a number of days) that are lower than recommended or lower
than that needed (e.g., to reach the user's weight loss goal), the
lifestyle companion system can increase the level or intensity of
future workout(s). If the collected data indicates that the user
will not reach his fitness goals based on his performance over
multiple workouts, the lifestyle companion system can increase the
intensity or frequency of future workouts. Thus, a user's
activities can be adapted either immediately or over time based on
the collected data.
[0077] In step 114, the lifestyle companion system can provide the
user with progress reports based on the goals expressed by the user
in the user interview and the data collected about the user's
activities. Progress reports can include information about the
user's progress to date and trends in the user's progress. The
information can be provided in charts and/or text. Progress reports
also can include other information, e.g., personalized bio-rhythm
charts (with automatic feeds from local weather), women's menstrual
cycle, food types eaten, etc. Such functionality may allow a user
to determine various patterns in the user's life.
[0078] Although FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart, having sequential
steps, steps 100-114 do not have to be performed in the sequence
shown. For example, as described above, the lifestyle companion
system can suggest activities, references, and plug-in modules in
step 104 based on data previously collected in accordance with step
110. Thus, one or more steps 100-114 can be reiterated. The
lifestyle companion system also can perform one or more steps
simultaneously. For example, the lifestyle companion system can
simultaneously perform steps 108-112. In some embodiments of the
present invention, some steps may be subsumed in other steps. For
example, as described in greater detail below with respect to FIG.
7, the lifestyle companion system can provide a platform for a user
to schedule activities during a user interview.
[0079] In some embodiments of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can communicate with (e.g., obtain information
from or provide information to) third party resources that can
operate independently of the lifestyle companion system. For
example, since many lifestyle planning and tracking activities
revolve around timelines, the lifestyle companion system can be
integrated with a calendar program similar to that offered under
the trademark iCal.TM. by Apple Inc. Additional integrated programs
also can include, for example, contacts lists, task lists, and/or
group calendaring programs that permit participants, such as family
members, to coordinate their respective schedules and exercise
routines (e.g., MeetingMaker.TM. offered by PeopleCube of Waltham,
Mass.). In one embodiment of the present invention, the task lists
can include themed information, e.g., reading lists. The lifestyle
companion system can obtain information from, for example,
automatic feeds from local meteorological resources, food menus for
restaurants, movie/theater schedules, TV schedules, etc. The
progress reports provided in step 114 can be integrated into themed
logs (e.g., food diary or pregnancy log), journals, and/or planning
tools. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the
lifestyle companion system can be configured to offer one or more
of these resources itself (i.e., without communication with
independent third party resources).
[0080] FIG. 2 illustrates hardware for the lifestyle companion
system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Lifestyle companion system 200 can include active tracking device
202 and central server 204. Tracking device 202 can incorporate
electronic device 206 and one or more sensors 208. Electronic
device 206 can include a controller, memory, first communication
module 210 for receiving signals transmitted from sensors 208, and
second communication module 212 for communicating with central
server 204 and/or a local server. In an alternative embodiment of
the present invention, first and second communication module 210
and 212 can be combined as one component.
[0081] The controller of electronic device 206 can be configured to
perform one or more of the steps described above with respect to
FIG. 1. For example, the controller can be configured to accept
sensor data from sensors 208 via communication module 210, direct
the sensor data to be stored as part of the user's profile in the
memory, determine how to adapt a user's goals based on the sensor
data and goal data stored in the user's profile, and provide media
cues to the user based on the sensor data and the adapted
goals.
[0082] Sensors 208 can transmit data to first communication module
210 through a wire or by using a wireless communication protocol
known in the art or otherwise. Sensors 208 can be attached to the
user (e.g., in clothing or accessories). Alternatively, sensors 208
can be disposed within electronic device 206 or another device
utilized by the user (e.g., fitness equipment described in greater
detail below with respect to FIG. 22). If sensors 208 are disposed
only within electronic device 206, the tracking device may not need
first communication module 210. In one embodiment of the present
invention, active tracking device 202 can include a portable media
player similar to that sold under the trademark iPod.TM. by Apple
Inc., and a sensor/receiver kit similar to the Nike+iPod Sport Kit
sold by Apple Inc. and Nike, Inc. of Beaverton, Oreg.
[0083] In alternative embodiments of the present invention, data
from sensors 208 can be transmitted directly or indirectly to
central server 204 or local server 216. For example, sensors 208
can directly transmit its signals to central server 204 and/or
local server 216, in addition to or instead of electronic device
206. Sensors 208 can indirectly transmit its signals to central
server 204 and/or local server 216 using electronic device 206 as a
conduit or through another conduit. If sensor data is transmitted
indirectly through a conduit, the sensor data can undergo
processing before it is transmitted to the central and/or local
servers. As used herein, the term "sensor data" means any data
directly generated by sensors 208 or any data derived from data
directly generated by sensors 208.
[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention, central server
204 can include a controller, memory, and communication module 214.
The controller of central server 204 can perform one or more of the
steps described above with respect to FIG. 1. A user may download
data collected about his activities from his active tracking
devices 202 into central server 204. The memory of central server
204 can store the user's data in his user profile. Communication
modules 212 and 214 can be configured to transmit signals between
portable device 206 and central server 204 over a hard-wired or
wireless network (e.g., the internet). Controllers of electronic
device 206 and central server 204 can include one or more
processors, ASICs, other types of circuits, or any combination
thereof.
[0085] Lifestyle companion system 200 also can include local server
216, e.g., a user's personal computer. Local server 216 can serve
as an intermediary between active tracking device 202 and central
server 204. In some embodiments of the present invention, a user
may interact with central server 204 through local server 216. A
controller of local server 216 also can perform one or more of the
steps described above with respect to FIG. 1. Thus, the process
described above with respect to FIG. 1 can be executed by one or
more of the controllers disposed in tracking device 202, central
server 204, and local server 216. Local server 216 can communicate
with active tracking device 202 and central server 204 using
communication modules 218 and 220, which can be combined into one
component.
[0086] User profiles can be stored in the respective memories of
central server 204, local server 216, and/or tracking device 202.
For example, user profile information can be stored in local server
216 for privacy reasons. User profile information also can be
stored in central server 204 to facilitate access thereto by
multiple user authorized entities or by the user from different
geographic regions. For example, in one embodiment of the present
invention, a user can authorize access of his user profile by the
user's family member, employer, doctor, trained therapist or
physical trainer, or other authorized entity. This can permit these
user-authorized entities to review information associated with the
user's profile (e.g., data collected about the user's activities)
and/or suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in modules as
described above with respect to step 104 of FIG. 1. User profile
information also can be divided among device 202, central server
204, and/or local server 216.
[0087] In one embodiment of the present invention, central server
204 can provide a database from which the lifestyle companion
system can select activities, references, and/or plug-in modules
for suggestion to the user in step 104 of FIG. 1. Central server
204 also can permit the user to download activities, references,
and/or modules from the same database and/or from a different
database. Local server 216 can provide the platform for conducting
the user interview and creating and scheduling user activities.
This information, along with any media files providing audio and/or
visual cues related to activities the user intends to perform, can
be downloaded onto portable electronic device 206. Portable
electronic device 206, in turn, can instruct the user in performing
the activities. Advantageously, this can permit users to carry
their most important information, lists, schedules, etc. with them.
This also can permit a user to easily share such information with
other authorized entities using, e.g., infra-red technology or via
wireless or wired access to the internet or another type of
network.
[0088] In alternative embodiments of the present invention, the
central and local servers can be combined into one server. In
another alternative embodiment of the present invention, the
central server, the local server, and the portable electronic
device can be combined into one device. For example, the portable
electronic device can be configured to perform all the steps
described with respect to FIG. 1.
[0089] In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 206 can include any portable, mobile, hand-held, or
miniature consumer electronic device. Illustrative electronic
devices can include, but are not limited to, music players, video
players, still image players, game players, other media players
(e.g., an iPod.TM. sold by Apple Inc.), music recorders, video
recorders, cameras, other media recorders, radios, medical
equipment, calculators, cellular phones, other wireless
communication devices, personal digital assistances, programmable
remote controls, pagers, laptop computers, printers, or
combinations thereof.
[0090] Miniature electronic devices can have a form factor that is
smaller than that of hand-held devices. Illustrative miniature
electronic devices can include, but are not limited to, watches,
rings, necklaces, belts, accessories for belts, headsets,
accessories for shoes, virtual reality devices, other wearable
electronics, accessories for sporting equipment, accessories for
fitness equipment, key chains, or combinations thereof.
Incorporation of miniature, wearable devices into existing items
can be desirable because they require no additional effort by the
user to use them.
[0091] FIGS. 3-23 show an illustrative application of the lifestyle
companion system of FIGS. 1-2 to a fitness module in accordance
with some embodiments of the present invention. While FIGS. 3-23
illustratively relate to a fitness module for the lifestyle
companion system of the present invention, the systems and methods
described herein can be applied to any other plug-in modules,
including the nutrition module described in greater detail with
respect to FIG. 25.
[0092] FIG. 3 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness welcome screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Screen 300 can include user input section 302 in
which a user can input personal information and statistics as part
of a user interview. For example, user input section 302 can
include fields for the user's name, birth date, gender, and various
bodily characteristics (e.g., weight, frame size, and a body fat
metric). Other suitable fields also can be included on screen 300.
Screen 300 also can include one or more links 306 to websites or
other functionalities, e.g., a body fat calculator that allows a
user to determine their individual body fat metric.
[0093] Screen 300 also can include interview progress indicator
306, which can indicate the user's progress through the user
interview. Interview progress indicator 306 also can include
selectable tabs that permit a user to navigate to other parts of
the user interview. For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3,
the selectable tabs can permit a user to navigate to the parts of
the fitness interview for user input of current fitness level, user
input of fitness interests, user input of fitness goals, user input
of a preferred fitness schedule, or display of a fitness
summary.
[0094] FIG. 4 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
current fitness level screen in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention. Current fitness level screen 400 can include
various fields for obtaining information about the user's current
physical abilities. For example, fields can include a user's
current fitness level 402, activity level 404, or any other
suitable indicator. In one embodiment of the present invention,
fields 402 and 404 can have selectable menus of predetermined
options. This can permit the lifestyle companion system to define
the predetermined options in instructional section 406 of screen
400.
[0095] FIG. 5 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness interest screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Fitness interest screen 500 can include
selectable menu of fitness interests 502, gym membership indicator
field 504, and gym identifier field 506. Gym identifier field 506
can permit the user to identify the gym company and/or the specific
branch of the gym that the user visits most frequently.
[0096] FIG. 6 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness goals screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Fitness goals screen 600 can include a
selectable menu of fitness goals 602. Screen 600 also can have
fields 604 in which a user can input specific values for one or
more goals (e.g., the user's weight goals). In one embodiment,
fields 604 can include fields for the user's current weight, target
weight, and target date on which the user would like to achieve his
target weight. Fitness goals screen 600 also can include
instructional section 606, in which the lifestyle companion system
can provide the user with graphic (e.g., text, still image and/or
video) instructions and/or information related to the selectable
menu 602 and fields 604.
[0097] FIG. 7 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness schedule screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Fitness schedule screen 700 can include menu of
types of fitness activities 702 and selectable daily schedule 704.
This can permit a user to identify the type of fitness activities
the user prefers to undertake on each day of the week. This also
can permit the user to identify the day(s) of the week in which the
user is unavailable or unwilling to perform a fitness activity.
Again, screen 700 can include instructional section 706 for
providing the user with graphic instructions and/or information
about the screen.
[0098] In one embodiment of the present invention, menu 702 can
include fitness activity types suggested by the fitness module of
the lifestyle companion system based on the user's interview
responses to user fitness interests and goals (FIGS. 5-6).
Alternatively, the categories can include a generic list that is
not customized to the user.
[0099] FIG. 8 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
fitness summary screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. For example, in section 802, fitness summary
screen 800 can show a summary of the types of fitness activities
and the corresponding days the user identified in fitness schedule
screen 700 of FIG. 8. In section 804, fitness summary screen 800
also can show a summary of the user's weight statistics (e.g., the
user's current weight, the amount by which the user is overweight,
the user's target weight, and the date by which the user wishes to
achieve the target weight). The lifestyle companion system also can
calculate a user's target daily calorie burn-rate and weekly weight
loss target based on the user's interview responses, and display
that information in fitness summary screen 800 (e.g., in section
804). Again, screen 800 can include instructional section 806 for
providing the user with instructions and/or information about the
screen.
[0100] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can provide the user with the option to extend the
user interview into additional interview functions, e.g., to
compile the user's health record. Additional interview functions
can be part of advanced functions of the fitness module or part of
another plug-in module. For example, in the embodiment shown in
FIG. 8, the interview function for compiling the user's health
record can be part of the fitness module or part of a medical
module that also is installed in the lifestyle companion system of
the present invention. Thus, the lifestyle companion system of the
present invention can seamlessly integrate multiple plug-in
modules.
[0101] FIG. 9 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
health history screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Health history screen 900 can permit the user to
identify medical concerns that, for example, can affect the user's
ability to perform fitness activities. Health history screen 900
can include selectable menu 902 of health conditions that a user
may have or have had. Health history screen 900 also can have
medication indication field 904 through which the user can advise
the lifestyle companion system of the present status of medication
the user is taking. If the user indicates that he currently is
taking medication, screen 900 can be updated to permit the user to
input the name(s) of the medications the user is taking. The
lifestyle companion system then can link to an internal or external
database that can provide information about side effects of the
medication or warnings. For example, some medications caution
against increased sensitivity to sunlight. Thus, the lifestyle
companion system may suggest activities that reduce sun
exposure.
[0102] FIG. 10 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
workout review screen in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Workout review screen 1000 can provide a
platform through which the lifestyle companion system can permit a
user to review a pre-compiled workout compilation that is suggested
by the lifestyle companion system, composed by a third party and
downloaded by the user, or previously composed by the user (e.g.,
as described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 12). Each
pre-compiled workout compilation can have one or more activities
associated therewith. Thus, the lifestyle companion system of the
present invention can select fitness activities for suggestion to
the user by selecting a pre-compiled workout compilation.
[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can provide a platform through which a user can
purchase pre-compiled workout compilations from a central database
of workout compilations (e.g., iTunes.TM.). Those workout
compilations can be choreographed workouts from third parties
(e.g., for specific fitness facilities). Third parties can include,
for example, fitness content partners (e.g., Gold's Gym) or
user-authorized entities (e.g., the user's personal fitness
trainer).
[0104] Workout review screen 1000 can include navigation section
1002 for navigating among the user's different workout
compilations. Screen 1000 also can include compilation section
1004, in which building blocks 1006 of the workout compilation can
be graphically shown. Each building block 1006 can represent an
individual fitness activity or a rest time activity. As described
in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 12, each building
block 1006 can be associated with adjustable fitness parameters (or
settings) preset by the lifestyle companion system (e.g., based on
the user's interview responses or based on default values) and
adjusted by the user, e.g., in a manner described in greater detail
below with respect to FIG. 12. The associated fitness parameters
(or settings) can include duration, intensity, equipment needed,
repetitions, sets, any other suitable parameter (or setting)
related to a fitness activity, or any combination thereof. Each
building block 1006 can provide one or more graphic representation
of the associated fitness activity and/or the associated fitness
parameters (or settings).
[0105] In one embodiment of the present invention, the workout
compilation illustrated in FIG. 10 can be one that is suggested by
the lifestyle companion system based on a user's interview
responses (e.g., an interest in weight loss, an interest in
walking, and no access to fitness facilities or equipment). The
lifestyle companion system can select the entire workout
compilation from a database of pre-compiled workout compilations
based on the user's interview responses. Alternatively, the
lifestyle companion system can select the workout compilation from
the database and customize the adjustable fitness parameters (or
settings) of each building block based on the user's interview
responses.
[0106] Alternatively, the lifestyle companion system can compose
the workout compilation entirely based on the user's interview
responses. For example, the lifestyle companion system can select
each building block, arrange the order in which the user will be
instructed to perform the fitness activities associated with the
building blocks, and customize the fitness parameters (or settings)
associated with each building block based on the user's interview
responses. In one embodiment of the present invention, the
lifestyle companion system can select one or more of the building
blocks pseudo-randomly from a subset of a database of activities
(e.g., a subset that includes activities that themselves are
selected from the database based on the user's profile).
[0107] FIG. 11 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an
alternative workout review screen in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention. Like workout review screen 1000, workout
review screen 1100 also can include compilation section 1104 in
which building blocks 1102 can be provided. Workout review screen
1100 also can include repetition indicator 1106 and completion
indicator 1108. Repetition indicator 1106 can graphically indicate
the number of times the workout compilation is encoded to instruct
the user to repeat a set of fitness activities. The fitness
activities to be repeated can include those represented by the
building blocks spanned by the repetition indicator. In the
embodiment of FIG. 11, the repeated fitness activities include
jumping jacks, squats, and push-ups.
[0108] FIG. 12 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
user workout composition screen in accordance with one embodiment
of the present invention. Composition screen 1200 can provide a
platform through which the lifestyle companion system can permit a
user to (1) compose his own workout compilation, (2) customize
suggested workout compilations and fitness activities, and/or (3)
customize workout compilations and fitness activities composed by a
third party.
[0109] Composition screen 1200 can include selectable menu 1202 of
building blocks 1204. When composing a workout compilation, a user
or other authorized entity can select building blocks 1204 of
fitness activities from menu 1202 and arrange the selected building
blocks in compilation section 1206 in the order in which the
workout compilation should instruct the user to perform the
selected fitness activities. In menu 1202, fitness building blocks
1204 can be sorted according to the exercise type indicated by
user-selectable field 1208, body area or muscle group indicated by
user selectable field 1210, and the phase of the workout
compilation (e.g., warm-up, cool-down, etc.) indicated by fields
1212.
[0110] The fitness building blocks included in menu 1202 can
include a default group of building blocks, selections culled from
a database of building blocks based on the user's interview
responses, or building blocks suggested by a third party that may
or may not be authorized by the user. For example, the building
blocks included in menu 1202 can be suggested based on the user's
fitness interests, preferred types of fitness activities,
availability of equipment at the gyms frequented by the user,
etc.
[0111] Each building block can be associated with one or more
adjustable fitness parameters. By adjusting the fitness
parameter(s) associated with a fitness activity, the fitness
activity can be customized to the abilities and goals of a user.
The fitness parameters (or settings) associated with each building
block can have default values, values suggested by the lifestyle
companion system based on the user's profile (e.g., the user's
fitness or weight loss goals, the user's access to fitness
facilities and equipment), or values suggested by a third party
that may or may not be authorized by the user.
[0112] The fitness parameters also can be set based on
user-specified values. To permit a user to set one or more fitness
parameters associated with a fitness activity, screen 1200 also can
incorporate instructional section 1214, in which instructional
fitness parameters 1216 are provided. The lifestyle companion
system can permit a user or other user authorized entity to set one
or more of the displayed instructional fitness parameters by
adjusting the value of the parameter shown in instructional section
1214. Instructional section 1214 also can provide graphic
instructions on how to perform the fitness activity associated with
the selected building block. For example, instructional section
1214 can provide textual instructions, still images, and/or an
instructional video.
[0113] FIG. 13 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
user workout composition screen having a media entertainment
playlist menu in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention. Composition screen 1300 can provide a platform through
which the lifestyle companion system can permit a user to associate
entertainment media playlists with individual fitness activities
and/or the entire workout compilation. Media entertainment
playlists can include playlists of audio and/or visual (e.g., still
image or video) entertainment files. Thus, when the user is
exercising in accordance with the fitness activities associated
with a workout compilation, the user can be entertained and
motivated.
[0114] An entertainment playlist can include one or more media
files. As used herein, an entertainment playlist refers to one or
more media files containing information that is unrelated to an
activity that the user will be directed to perform during playback
of the entertainment playlist. For example, an entertainment
playlist can include one or more music files, podcasts, music video
files, TV show files, movie files, etc. In contrast, media files
that instruct the user on performance of an activity associated
with a workout compilation are considered instructional files.
[0115] Composition screen 1300 can include entertainment playlist
menu 1302. Entertainment playlist menu 1302 can include, for
example, a user's iTunes.TM. playlist menu, a video menu, a photo
menu, a song menu, a podcast menu, a radio station broadcast menu,
or any combination thereof. The user can select one or more
entertainment playlists from entertainment playlist menu 1302 and
assign an energy rank to each of the selected entertainment
playlists according to energy level of the corresponding media
tracks. The ranked entertainment playlists can be displayed in
section 1304 of screen 1300. The entertainment playlists can be
manually assigned energy ranks by the user or automatically
assigned energy ranks by the lifestyle companion system in
accordance with, for example, the tempo of songs in each
entertainment playlist.
[0116] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can suggest associations of entertainment
playlists with fitness activities. For example, the lifestyle
companion system can select one or more playlists to associate with
one or more fitness activities based on the expected intensity of
the activities and the energy ranks of the entertainment
playlists.
[0117] During performance of an activity, one or more of the
entertainment playlists can be played. The present invention can
playback entertainment playlists that have been pre-associated with
a workout or fitness activity, permit the user to manually control
the specific entertainment playlist played during an activity, or
allow the lifestyle companion system to automatically select
entertainment playlists based, for example, on the energy rank of
the entertainment playlist and the intensity of the activity.
[0118] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system also can permit a user to assign one or more media
files as "power songs." Power songs may be predetermined audio
files that a user can preferably and instantly queue up at the push
of a button for extra motivation.
[0119] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle
companion system can permit a user to manually associate one or
more playlists with one or more building blocks. Alternatively, the
lifestyle companion system can automatically associate one or more
playlists with one or more building blocks according to the
relative expected energy level required by the fitness activities
associated with the building blocks. For example, the lifestyle
companion system can automatically associate lower energy playlists
with fitness activities to be performed during the beginning or end
of a workout (e.g., warm-up or cool-down). Similarly, higher energy
playlists automatically can be associated with fitness activities
to be performed during the middle of the workout. Thus, when the
user is exercising in accordance with the workout compilation, the
lifestyle companion system can play media having energy levels that
are appropriate for the types of fitness activities being performed
by the user.
[0120] In operation, a user can begin composing a workout
composition by dragging one or more selected building blocks to
composition section 1206 and arrange them in the order desired.
Alternatively, the user can retrieve a pre-compiled workout
compilation from memory or download a pre-compiled workout
compilation from a database. If the user so desires, the user then
can set or adjust the value of one or more fitness parameters 1216
of one or more fitness activities. Thereafter, the user can
associate entertainment media playlists to the workout compilation
or permit the lifestyle companion system to associated
entertainment media playlists to the workout compilation based on
the energy rank of the playlist and the expected energy levels of
individual fitness activities and/or all of the activities
associated with the workout compilation. Thereafter, the lifestyle
companion system can compile the workout compilation, creating an
activity file. The activity file can associate all of the media
files, fitness parameters, and other information related to the
workout compilation composed by the user.
[0121] Once a user has completed the user interview and has
reviewed and/or composed one or more workout compilations, the user
can begin exercising in accordance with one or more of the workout
compilations. In one embodiment of the present invention, the user
can compose workout compilations on a local server (e.g., the
user's PC) and download the workout compilations onto a portable
electronic device that the user can carry with him while
exercising. The portable electronic device can provide both audio
and visual cues to the user that relate to the workout compilation
and to any entertainment playlists being played back during the
workout.
[0122] Once the user has composed one or more workout compilations,
the user also can share the workout compilation with
user-authorized entities, e.g., with the user's doctor, trainer,
physical therapist, friend, or any other entity authorized by the
user.
[0123] FIGS. 14-21 show illustrative graphic user interfaces during
playback of a workout compilation on an electronic device in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Electronic
device 1400 can include touchscreen display 1402 on which the
electronic device can display visual cues and user input components
1404-1412 to permit user interaction with the electronic device
and/or the workout compilation. Touchscreen display 1402 can sense
when a user's finger(s) and/or hands approaches, touches, or slides
across the screen. User input components 1404-1412 can be
hard-wired user input components or virtual user input components
that are part of touchscreen display 1402. For example, user input
components 1404-1412 can include one or more buttons, a touchpad, a
touchscreen display, electronics for accepting voice commands,
antennas, infrared ports, or combinations thereof. User input
components 1404-1412 also can include a hard-wired and/or virtual
clickwheel similar to that incorporated into some models of the
iPod.TM.. The clickwheel can have hardwired or virtual buttons and
a track around which a user can run his finger to initiate
scrolling.
[0124] FIG. 14 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
welcome screen on electronic device 1400 in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. Interface 1414 can provide
visual cues related to a workout compilation being played back by
the electronic device. For example, visual cues can include fitness
activity filmstrip 1416, progress indicator 1418, instructional
section 1420, and exercise type indicator 1422.
[0125] Fitness activity filmstrip 1416 can include graphic
representations of previous, current, and future fitness activities
that the workout compilation has, is, and will direct the user to
perform. As the user advances through the workout compilation,
electronic device 1400 will update fitness activity filmstrip 1416
accordingly based on data received by sensors 208 and/or manual
user input informative of advancement from a current activity to a
future activity. For example, when the sensor data indicates that
the user has completed the current activity (e.g., performed the
current activity in accordance with the associated fitness
parameters), electronic device 1400 can update the filmstrip by
updating the graphics (e.g., by adding a graphic representing the
next future activity and removing the graphic of the last previous
activity).
[0126] Progress indicator 1418 can indicate the progress of the
user in performing the fitness activities of the currently loaded
workout compilation. In one embodiment of the present invention,
progress indicator 1418 can indicate the total number of fitness
activities associated with the currently loaded workout compilation
and the location of the current fitness activity within the total
number. In one embodiment, electronic device 1400 can automatically
update progress indicator 1418 based on data collected from
sensor(s) 208 of FIG. 2 about the user's performance. For example,
once data collected from sensors 208 indicates that the user has
completed a fitness activity of the current workout compilation in
accordance with the associated fitness parameters, electronic
device 1400 can automatically update progress indicator 1418
accordingly, in addition to displaying visual cues for the next
fitness activity associated with the current workout compilation.
The electronic device also can update progress indicator 1418 based
on user input signals that indicate the user's desire to advance
onto the next activity.
[0127] In the welcome screen of FIG. 14, instructional section 1420
can provide visual instructions for initiating the workout and
information about the workout itself (e.g., total duration, name of
the workout, etc.). Instructional section 1420 also can include
virtual user input component 1404, which the user can actuate to
obtain more detailed information about the currently loaded workout
compilation. In one embodiment of the present invention, detailed
information accessible via virtual user input component 1404 can
include an index of the fitness activities associated with the
currently loaded workout compilation, an example of which is
described in greater detail below with respect to FIG. 21.
[0128] Exercise type indicator 1422 can indicate the type of
exercise(s) for which the currently loaded workout compilation is
targeting (e.g., strength training). Other types of exercise types
can include, for example, weight loss, yoga, calisthenics, etc.
[0129] Interface 1414 also can provide visual representations of
entertainment playlist(s) associated with the workout compilation,
e.g., as described in greater detail above with respect to FIG. 13.
For example, interface 1414 can provide entertainment filmstrip
1424 having graphics indicative of the entertainment tracks
associated with the entertainment playlist currently being played.
Interface 1414 also can provide graphics 1426 identifying the title
and artist of the entertainment track currently being played.
Interface 1414 also can provide virtual user input components 1406
and 1408, which the user can actuate to change the entertainment
playlist currently being played. For example, the user can actuate
virtual user input component 1406 when the user desires to play an
entertainment playlist having an energy rank that corresponds to a
lower energy level. The user can actuate virtual user input
component 1408 when the user desires to play an entertainment
playlist ranked having an energy rank that corresponds to a higher
energy level (e.g., when the user wants to be motivated by songs
having a faster tempo). Alternatively, electronic device 1400 can
automatically link entertainment playlists to fitness activities
and/or workout compilations based respectively on the energy ranks
of the entertainment playlists and the expected intensity of the
fitness activities and workout compilations. As described with
respect to FIG. 13, the energy levels of the entertainment
playlists can be manually ranked by the user or automatically rated
by the lifestyle companion system.
[0130] FIG. 15 shows an illustrative graphic user interface
provided by electronic device 1400 during one fitness activity in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. In
addition to one or more of the visual cues provided by interface
1414 of FIG. 14, interface 1502 also can provide additional visual
cues related to the workout compilation being played back by the
electronic device. Such additional visual cues can include timer
1504 and textual information 1506 regarding the fitness activity
the workout compilation is instructing the user to perform. Timer
1504 can be a countdown timer that indicates the amount of time
remaining in the current fitness activity or the amount of time
elapsed since the beginning of the current fitness activity.
Textual information 1506 can provide information about the fitness
activity the workout compilation is directing the user to perform,
e.g., the phase of the workout compilation (e.g., warm-up,
cool-down, etc.), the title of the fitness activity, the amount of
time in which the user should perform the indicated fitness
activity, etc. In one embodiment of the present invention,
electronic device 1400 also can provide audio cues about
information similar or identical to that provided as textual
information 1506.
[0131] Electronic device 1400 also can provide hard-wired or
virtual user input components 1410, 1412, 1508 for the user to
interact with the workout compilation currently being played. For
example, a user can actuate user input component 1508 to obtain
more detailed information about the current fitness activity. In
one embodiment of the present invention, detailed information
accessible via virtual user input component 1508 can include
instructions for performing the current fitness activity and/or
more detailed information about the fitness parameters associated
with the current fitness activity (e.g., as described in greater
detail below with respect to FIGS. 17 and 18).
[0132] A user can actuate user input component 1410 to play, pause,
and/or stop playback of the current workout compilation. For
example, a single short press of the user input component can
instruct the electronic device to pause playback of the workout
compilation, while a two short presses of the user input component
can instruct the electronic device to stop the playback of the
workout compilation.
[0133] A user also can actuate virtual user input component 1412 to
advance onto the next successive fitness activity in the workout
compilation. In an alternative embodiment of the present invention,
electronic device 1400 also can be configured to permit the user to
navigate to a different fitness activity associated with the
current workout compilation by actuating one of the graphic
representations of fitness activity filmstrip 1416. For example, to
advance onto the next fitness activity or return to a previous
fitness activity, the user can actuate the graphic representation
of that fitness activity on filmstrip 1416, e.g., by pressing on
the appropriate representation. As described in greater detail
below with respect to FIG. 19, electronic device 1400 also can
advance onto the next successive fitness activity automatically
when on the collected sensor data indicates that the user has
completed the current activity. When electronic device 1400
advances onto the next successive fitness activity, the electronic
device can update the activity information displayed on its display
to reflect information (e.g., instructions) for that next
activity.
[0134] FIG. 16 shows an illustrative graphic user interface
provided by electronic device 1400 during a rest time activity in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Like
interface 1502 of FIG. 15, interface 1602 also can have timer 1604.
To indicate that the present activity is a rest time activity,
fitness activity filmstrip 1416 can depict a graphical
representation of time (e.g., a clock). If a user is ready to begin
the next fitness activity before the time allocated for the rest
time activity has timed out, the user may manually advance the
workout compilation to the next fitness activity by actuating the
representation of the desired fitness activity on filmstrip 1416 or
actuating user input component 1412.
[0135] Interface 1602 also can incorporate instructional section
1606 to provide visual instructions for the next fitness activity.
For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 16, instructional
section 1606 can instruct the user to prepare for the next fitness
activity (e.g., biceps curl) by gathering the proper equipment for
the activity (e.g., 10 lbs. barbells). Instructional section 1606
also can include user input component 1608, which, when actuated,
can reveal more detailed information about the next fitness
activity, e.g., as described in greater detail below with respect
to FIGS. 17 and 18.
[0136] FIG. 17 shows an illustrative graphic user interface
provided by electronic device 1400 in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. Interface 1702 can provide a
platform through which the lifestyle companion system can provide
the user with more detailed information about a fitness activity.
For example, interface 1702 can provide a platform through which
the lifestyle companion system can provide the user with pictorial
instructions 1704 for the fitness activity, detailed textual
instructions 1706 for the fitness activity, and instructional
fitness parameters 1708 associated with the fitness activity.
[0137] Pictorial instructions 1704 and textual instructions 1706
can provide instructions related to the proper way to perform the
fitness activity currently being displayed on interface 1702. For
example, the instructions can relate to proper posture during the
routine, proper breathing techniques, and/or other information
related to the proper way to perform the fitness activity. If the
textual instructions require more space than available on interface
1702, electronic device 1400 can permit the user to scroll through
the textual instructions by using user-actuable scroll bar 1710 on
interface 1702 or another user interface component (e.g., a
hard-wired scroll wheel). Pictorial instructional 1704 can include
one or more still images and/or videos.
[0138] As discussed above with respect to FIG. 12, adjustable
fitness parameters 1708 can be considered as instructions that
guide the user in performing a fitness activity. Fitness parameters
1708 can include, e.g., the number of sets the workout compilation
is instructing the user to perform, the number of repetitions per
set the workout compilation is instructing the user to perform, the
equipment the workout compilation is instructing the user to use in
performing the fitness activity, the amount of time the workout
compilation is instructing the user to allocate in performing the
fitness activity, the entertainment playlist or file the user
programmed the workout module to play during the fitness activity,
etc. Fitness parameters 1708 can reflect default values, values
suggested by the lifestyle companion system based on the user's
profile or previously collected sensor data, values programmed by a
third party and downloaded by the user in step 105 of FIG. 1, or
values programmed by the user in step 105 using, for example,
interface 1200 of FIG. 12. Thus, the fitness parameters can have
default values or values customized for the user.
[0139] In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 1400 can permit the user to adjust one or more
user-programmable parameters of a fitness activity in real-time
during playback of the workout compilation. The user can select and
adjust the parameters by using a virtual or hard-wired user input
component. The electronic device can facilitate the selection by
visually distinguishing the selected parameter. Once the user has
adjusted one or more parameters, the electronic device can proceed
to continue playing back the currently loaded workout compilation
in accordance with the adjustments to the fitness parameters. For
example, if the user changes the number of sets from 3 sets to 2
sets, the adjustment can be reflected in the fitness parameters
displayed by the electronic device and in the stored information
associated with the current workout compilation. Adjustments to
fitness parameters also can be considered data collected about a
user's performance of scheduled activities. Thus, the lifestyle
companion system can adapt the user's goals, adapt later scheduled
activities, and/or suggest activities, references, and/or plug-in
modules for the user's consideration based on user-adjustments to
the fitness parameters.
[0140] Electronic device 1400 also can adjust fitness parameters
1708 and/or a user's fitness goals in real-time based on data
collected from sensors 208 of FIG. 2. For example, if the sensor
data indicates that the user is in poor physical shape, the
electronic device can adjust one or more fitness parameters
associated with one or more fitness activities to reduce, for
example, the amount of time allocated to the fitness activities
and/or the intensity level of the fitness activities. The
electronic device also can adjust the user's fitness goals to be
less ambitious to maintain the user's motivational level.
[0141] In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 1400 can adjust fitness parameters 1708 and/or the user's
fitness goals based on whether the user's performance metrics
indicate that the user is becoming fatigued. For example,
electronic device 1400 can detect fatigue by measuring changes in
one or more physiological metrics (e.g., breaths per minute, heart
rate, or pace) as compared to a predetermined value. Electronic
device 1400 also can detect fatigue by measuring changes in one or
more physiological metrics as weighted by a weighting factor
indicative of an expected intensity of the fitness activity. If the
user's physiological metrics indicate fatigue, for example,
electronic device 1400 may immediately reduce the intensity of the
current fitness activity, e.g., by reducing the number of reps or
sets the workout compilation is instructing the user to perform in
the present workout.
[0142] In another embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 1400 can adjust fitness parameters 1708 and/or the user's
fitness goals based on whether the user's performance metrics
indicate the user will meet the user's short-term or long-term
calorie burning goal. For example, electronic device 1400 can
determine the number of calories a user burns by measuring the heat
flux radiating from a predetermined location on a person's skin or
tracking the amount of movement a user undertakes (e.g., the
distance the user runs) with respect to the user's weight. Based on
the number of calories burned, the electronic device then can
project, for example, whether the user can attain the user's
calorie burning goals. If the electronic device determines that the
user will not be able to meet his goals, the electronic device can,
for example, immediately increase the intensity of the current
fitness activity by increasing the number of reps or sets the
workout compilation is instructing the user to perform in the
present workout.
[0143] Additional information about systems and methods for
adjusting of user-programmable parameters of a media file (such as
the workout compilation of the present invention) during playback
of the media file can be found in the incorporated VARIABLE I/O
document and the incorporated provisional patent application.
[0144] In addition to instructions 1704-1708, interface 1702 also
can provide additional visual cues related to the workout
compilation, including, e.g., title 1712 of the fitness activity,
progress indicator 1714, etc. Progress indicator 1714 can indicate
the user's progress through the fitness activities associated with
the workout compilation currently being played back by electronic
device 1400.
[0145] Interface 1702 also can include icon 1716, which closes
interface 1702 when actuated by the user. When interface 1702 is
closed, electronic device 1400 can return to, for example,
interface 1502 of FIG. 15, 1602 of FIG. 16, or 1902 of FIG. 19.
[0146] FIG. 18 shows an illustrative graphic user interface
provided by electronic device 1400 in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. Interface 1802 can provide a
platform through which the lifestyle companion system can provide
the user with more detailed information about a fitness activity.
Interface 1802 can be similar to interface 1702 of FIG. 17. For
example, interface 1802 also can incorporate pictorial instructions
1804 related to performance of the fitness activity,
user-adjustable fitness parameters 1806, title 1808 of the fitness
activity, progress indicator 1810, and user-actuable
close-interface icon 1812. In one embodiment of the present
invention, pictorial instructions 1804 can be larger than that of
interface 1702 of FIG. 17. Depending on the area occupied by
pictorial instructions 1804, interface may or may not incorporate
textual instructions related to performance of the fitness
activity.
[0147] FIG. 19 shows an illustrative graphic user interface
provided by electronic device 1400 during one fitness activity in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. Interface
1902 can incorporate user-adjustable fitness parameters 1904,
performance metric 1906, and progress indicator 1908. In one
embodiment of the present invention, electronic device 1400 can
automatically update performance metric 1906 based on data
collected by sensors 208 of FIG. 2. For example, if performance
metric 1906 tracks the number of sets completed by the user,
electronic device 106 can update the performance metric when the
sensor data indicates that the user has completed a set of the
prescribed activity.
[0148] Interface 1902 also can include user-actuable user input
component 1910. When actuated by the user, electronic device 1400
can display information about the current fitness activity, e.g.,
as described in greater detail above with respect to FIGS. 17 and
18.
[0149] FIG. 20 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of a
finish screen on electronic device 1400 in accordance with one
embodiment of the present invention. Interface 2002 can be similar
to interface 1414 of FIG. 14, except that instructional section
2004 can display a graphic message appropriate for the completion
of the workout compilation.
[0150] FIG. 21 shows an illustrative graphic user interface of an
index of fitness activities associated with a workout compilation
in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
Interface 2102 can provide a platform in which a user can keep
track of his progress through a workout compilation. Interface 2102
can incorporate graphic representations 2104 of the fitness
activities. The representations can be sorted in the order in which
the associated activities are to be performed.
[0151] Interface 2102 also can incorporate progress indicator 2106,
which can visually distinguish the fitness activities that the user
already has already performed from the fitness activities that the
user has yet to perform. In one embodiment, electronic device 1400
can be configured to determine which activities the user has
already performed based on collected sensor data. The electronic
device also can be configured to determine which activities the
user has already performed based on user input (e.g., user input
that indicates the user's desire to advance onto successive
activities).
[0152] Interface 2102 also can permit a user to jump around to
different activities in the workout compilation. For example, if
the user has just completed the legs lunge activity and would like
to skip to the back superman activity next, the user can indicate
this by actuating the graphic representation for the back superman
activity. Electronic device 1400 then would advance onto the back
superman activity next, rather than the biceps curl activity that
originally was scheduled next.
[0153] In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 1400 can remember the location in the workout compilation at
which a user has paused a workout compilation. When a user returns
to the paused workout compilation, e.g., after a few minutes,
hours, or days, electronic device 1400 can display index interface
2102 to remind the user of his progress through the workout
compilation.
[0154] In one embodiment of the present invention, electronic
device 1400 also can provide audio cues related to the workout
compilation and/or a user performance metric. For example, in
addition to the visual instructions on instructional section 1420
for initiating the workout, electronic device 1400 also can provide
the same instructions audibly. Other audible cues can be related
to, for example, the exercise type, the next fitness activity to be
performed, the progress of the user through the workout
compilation, instructions for a fitness activity (e.g., fitness
parameters associated with a fitness activity and/or the proper way
to perform a fitness activity), etc. In one embodiment of the
present invention, the audio cues can be provided simultaneously
with visual cues or in lieu of visual cues.
[0155] The audio cues can be provided at predetermined points in
the workout compilation (e.g., at the end of each fitness activity)
or dynamically provided based on a user's performance metrics. For
example, electronic device 1400 can provide audio cues about the
user's performance metrics, e.g., in isolation, as compared to the
user's long-term or short-term performance goals, and/or as
compared to the performance metrics of other people. The audio cues
can be motivational in nature. For example, the audio cues can
congratulate the user when the user runs her fastest mile or has
met a performance goal.
[0156] FIG. 22 shows an illustrative fitness system for
facilitating collection of data about a user's fitness performance
and adaptation of a fitness activity based on the collected data in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention. System
2000 can include exercise machine (e.g., treadmill) 2002,
integrated exercise machine sensor 2004, portable electronic device
2006 (e.g., iPod.TM.), and wearable sensors 2008 and 2010 (e.g.,
the sensor from the Nike+iPod Sport Kit and heat flux sensor).
[0157] In one embodiment of the present invention, one of the
activities of a user's workout compilation can include exercising
on exercise machine 2002. Portable electronic device 2006 can
collect data from sensors 2004 and 2008-2010 and from other data
sources (e.g., manual entry by the user). Based on the collected
data and on a user profile stored in memory of the portable
electronic device, the portable electronic device can provide media
cues to the user and control exercise machine 2002. Portable
electronic device 2006 also can store the collected data for future
analysis or for transmission to user-authorized entities.
[0158] To collect data from the sensors, portable electronic device
2006 can be equipped with a communication module (e.g.,
communication module 210 of FIG. 2) for receiving signals
transmitted by sensors 2004, 2008, 2010 and/or other data sources.
If one or more sensors are configured to transmit their data
wirelessly, the communication module can be configured to accept
the data using the same wireless protocol. If one or more of the
sensors (e.g., integrated exercise sensor 2004) are configured to
transmit data via a hard-wired connection (e.g., through a dock or
cable), the communication module also can be configured to accept
the data in the same manner.
[0159] Based on the data collected from data sources and the user
profile, portable electronic device 2006 can dynamically adapt (in
real-time) any of the adjustable fitness parameters of exercise
machine 2002 (e.g., speed setting or inclination setting). That is,
based on the collected data and the user profile, the portable
electronic device can generate control signals to influence
operation of the exercise machine. For example, if collected data
indicates that the user's heart rate is too high for his weight
class, portable electronic device can generate control signals that
instruct exercise machine 2002 to immediately reduce its speed
and/or reduce its inclination.
[0160] The computation for adjusting an exercise parameter of the
exercise machine can at least partially be based on comparison of
the user's performance metric(s) (e.g., heart rate) to target
performance metric(s) (e.g., a target heart rate for the user's
weight).
[0161] To facilitate communication and other interaction between
portable electronic device 2006 and exercise machine 2002, the two
devices can undergo a handshaking operation at the start of their
interaction. For example, at the beginning of any interaction
between the portable electronic device and the exercise machine,
exercise machine 2002 can transmit identification data to portable
electronic device 2006 to identify the exercise machine. The
portable electronic device can use the identification data to
determine the proper fitness parameters to adjust. The portable
electronic device also can use the identification data to ensure
that the collected data is linked with the correct exercise machine
when the data is stored in memory. Thus, when the stored data is
reviewed later, it can be reviewed in the proper context.
[0162] In one embodiment of the present invention, system 2000 can
have duplicative data sources. Duplicative data sources can include
multiple independent sensors that can provide data about the same
performance metric. As used herein, while duplicative data sources
can provide data about the same performance metric, duplicative
data sources also can provide data about different performance
metrics.
[0163] One advantage of using duplicative data sources to track a
user's performance of an activity is the opportunity to select and
use data from the data source providing the more accurate data. For
example, a treadmill can provide calorie count based on the weight
of the user and the miles the user has traversed. However, portable
electronic device 2006 also can receive calorie information from a
heat flux sensor (e.g., sensor 2008) that measures heat radiating
from the user. Under some circumstances, heat flux information may
be a more accurate indication of calories burned than the treadmill
information. In one embodiment of the present invention, system
2000 can determine the duplicative data source providing the more
accurate information by comparing data from each duplicative data
source to the user's historic data and/or to a reference or
calibration value or range of values. Thus, the present invention
can include the ability to manually or automatically select among
two or more data sources. Other embodiments of the present
invention described herein also can include duplicative data
sources.
[0164] While FIG. 22 illustrates a treadmill for use with the
lifestyle companion system of the present invention, other exercise
machines having adjustable exercise parameters also may be equipped
to communicate with portable electronic device 2006 in the manner
described. For example, adjustable weight machines, adjustable
elliptical trainers, adjustable rowers, adjustable stationary
bicycles, or any other suitable exercise machine can be equipped to
communicate with (e.g., by controlled by and provide data to)
portable electronic device 2006.
[0165] In one embodiment of the present invention, multiple
exercise machines in a fitness facility can be equipped to
communicate with portable electronic devices 2006. This can permit
a user to aggregate his performance metrics from multiple exercise
machines onto a single device (e.g., portable electronic device
2006). For example, the user can collect and store data from
multiple exercise machines during a single workout or multiple
workouts using portable electronic device 2006. Advantageously,
rather than aggregating and analyzing data about the user's
performance metrics in a piecemeal fashion, the user or an
authorized entity can efficiently obtain a more complete picture of
the user's performance and fitness abilities using the present
invention.
[0166] Portable electronic device 2006 can provide audio and visual
cues based on the data collected from sensors that track the user's
performance and from sensors that track other people's
performance(s) in accordance with the principles of the present
invention. For example, a user and his workout partner may be
jogging together, exercising on separate exercise machines, or
otherwise working out together. A user's portable electronic device
can be configured to accept data indicative of his own performance
metrics from sensors associated with his own user profile for
portable electronic device) and data indicative of his partner's
performance metrics. The data indicative of the user's partner's
performance metrics can be transmitted from the partner's portable
electronic device or from sensors associated with the partner's
user profile or portable electronic device.
[0167] The user's electronic device may compare the partner's
performance metrics to that of his own, and, based thereon, provide
the user with a media cue. In one embodiment, the media cues can be
indicative of the user's performance metrics and/or the partner's
performance metrics. For example, if the user's performance metrics
do not compare favorable with the partner's performance metrics,
the user's portable electronic device can instruct the user to
"Speed it up. Partner has already run 3 miles and you have only run
2 miles!"
[0168] In an alternative example, the user and his exercise partner
may be exercising on different types of exercise machines equipped
to communicate with portable electronic devices 2006. The user's
electronic device and the partner's electronic device can each log
the performance metrics of each person. The partner's electronic
device can send the partner's performance metrics to the user's
electronic device. The user's electronic device then can compare
the user's performance metrics to those of the partner with respect
to, for example, calories burned. After a predetermined period of
time, the user's electronic device can instruct the user to "Speed
it up. You have burned 50 calories in 20 minutes, while your
partner has burned 70 calories in 20 minutes."
[0169] FIG. 23A shows an illustrative progress report in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention. Progress screen 2300
can include textual indications 2302 and pictorial indications 2304
of a user's progress towards fitness goals. Progress screen 2300
also can incorporate motivational messages 2306 tailored to the
user's performance metrics (e.g., as compared with the target
metrics). For example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 23A, screen
2300 displays the following motivational message: "You are doing
great!" Progress toward other fitness goals or lifestyle goals also
can be shown in graphical interfaces (e.g., similar to screen 2300)
without departing from the spirit of the invention.
[0170] FIG. 23B shows illustrative progress report 2300 after goal
adaptation based on the user's performance metrics in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention. For example, textual
indication 2302 and pictorial indication 2304 can be updated to
show a decrease in the total number of walks the user has to
perform over a predetermined period as compared to the original
goal. In one embodiment of the present invention, the adjustment
can be visually distinguished, e.g., as blinking graphic 2308. The
adjustment can be implemented in response to the user's performance
metrics, as determined from data collected from data sources, e.g.,
sensors 208 of FIG. 2. For example, the target number of walks can
be reduced as a result of the user's poor performance through a
first predetermined time period (e.g., four weeks) of the fitness
schedule.
[0171] In accordance with another embodiment, the lifestyle
companion system of the present invention can facilitate
synchronous group activities. For example, the lifestyle companion
system can be used to ensure that each participant in a group
activity is being instructed to perform activities in concert with
the other participants of the activity. That is, each participant
can be instructed to perform the same activities as the other
participants (e.g., in group workouts) or activities that
complement the activities the other participants are being
instructed to perform (e.g., in a band, theatrical production, or
interactive sport activity).
[0172] FIG. 24 shows an illustrative flowchart for facilitating
synchronous group activities in accordance with one embodiment of
the present invention. In step 2402, the lifestyle companion system
can transmit activity files to multiple member electronic devices
to be used by the members of the group. The activity files can be
downloaded onto each member electronic device (e.g., a portable
media device similar to the iPod.TM.) from a local server, a
central server, or a participating electronic device (e.g., a
master electronic device). In one embodiment of the present
invention, the activity file can be created by a group organizer
(e.g., fitness trainer, band leader, drill sergeant, theatrical
director, athletic coach, etc.) in accordance with the systems and
methods described herein.
[0173] In one embodiment of the present invention, the same
activity file (e.g., a workout compilation) can be downloaded to
all of the member devices. Alternatively, each member electronic
device can be provided with different activity files. For example,
the activity files can be different because the activity files may
store different media items corresponding to different but
complementary activities. When the activity files are played back
on the member devices, the different activity files can instruct
each group participant to perform at least one activity that is
different than an activity another group participant is being
directed to perform (e.g., in a band, theatrical production, or
interactive sport activity). Alternatively, the activity files can
be different because the activity files may store different
parameters associated with the same activities. When the activity
files are played back on the member devices, the activity files can
instruct the group participants to perform the same activity, but
in accordance with different parameters (e.g., different weights in
a bicep curl activity).
[0174] In one embodiment of the present invention, an activity file
can include a file in which all media items and parameters
associated with an activity or compilation of activities are
stored. Alternatively, an activity file can include multiple files
in which all media items and parameters associated with an activity
or compilation of activities are stored. For example, an activity
file can include a first file in which the media items are stored
and a second file in which the parameters are stored. Activity
files can be considered different when they share the same media
items but different parameters.
[0175] Once the activity file has been downloaded into each
participating electronic device, the group members can begin
performing the activity. In step 2404, one or more member
electronic devices can send one or more synchronization signals to
one or more of the other member electronic devices via wired or
wireless communication protocols. For example, a master electronic
device (e.g., used by the group organizer) can send out a
synchronization signal to the other electronic devices to indicate
that each device should begin playback of the downloaded activity
file. During subsequent playback of the activity file, the master
electronic device can continue to periodically send synchronization
pulses to the other member devices to ensure that each member
electronic device continues to play back the downloaded activity
file in concert with the other member electronic devices.
[0176] In step 2406, each member electronic device can provide
audio and/or visual cues to their respective participants in
accordance with the systems and methods described herein. The audio
and/or visual cues provided by each member device can be the same
as those provided to the other members. Alternatively, the audio
and/or visual cues provided by one or more of the member devices
can be different than those provided to the other members. For
example, when two or more participants are instructed to perform
different but complementary activities (e.g., in a band, theatrical
production, or interactive sport activity), each participant's
electronic device can provide audio and/or visual cues that are
appropriate for the activity that participant is being instructed
to perform.
[0177] In one embodiment, the media cues can be related to data
collected in step 2408. For example, the portable electronic
devices can collect data indicative of the users' performance
metrics before the devices provide media cues related thereto. The
media cues also can be related to a member's performance as
compared to the performance of one or more other members (as
discussed above with respect to FIG. 22). For example, a first
member device can receive data indicative of performance metrics of
first and second members of the group activity. The first member
device can compare the two sets of data and transmit a media cue to
the first member based on the comparison.
[0178] In one embodiment of the present invention, the audio and/or
visual cues related to the group activity can be blended or
overlaid with entertainment media tracks that each participant has
selected for playback on their respective electronic device. For
example, each participant may choose to play different music while
working out to a group fitness activity. The present invention can
blend audio cues for the group fitness activity into the different
music being played on each member electronic device.
[0179] In step 2408, the lifestyle companion system can collect
data about the performance of the group participants. For example,
each participating device can collect data from sensors associated
therewith in accordance with the systems and methods described
herein. The participating devices also can transmit the sensor data
to other participating devices, such as the master device and/or
another member device. Alternatively, the master device can be
configured to accept the sensor data from the sensors directly
without having to wait for transmission from another participating
device.
[0180] In step 2410, one or more participating electronic devices
(including a master electronic device) can be provided with at
least partial operational control of one or more of the other
member electronic devices. For example, a master electronic device
can be provided with the ability to dynamically adjust parameters
of the activity as discussed in greater detail below with respect
to step 2412. Alternatively, each participating electronic device
can have the ability to generate and send control signals to
influence operation of the other participating electronic devices
and/or the master device. The control signals can, for example,
pause playback of the activity file or temporarily reduce the
volume on the other electronic device(s) in the group. For example,
when one person wants to communicate with the other person(s) in
the group activity, the participating electronic devices can have
the ability to lower the volume on or pause the other electronic
device(s), e.g., in response to speech or activation of a user
input by the first group member.
[0181] In step 2412, the lifestyle companion system can permit a
member's own electronic device and/or a master electronic device to
dynamically adapt one or more of the user's goals based on the data
collected in step 2408. The lifestyle companion system also can
permit a member's own electronic device and/or a master electronic
device to dynamically adapt the parameters of the current activity
based on the collected data. For example, a master electronic
device can be configured to adapt a user's goals or the parameters
of an activity on one or more of the participating electronic
devices by generating and transmitting control signals to the
target electronic device over a wireless or wired link, even while
the participating electronic devices are playing the currently
loaded activity file. The control signals can influence operation
of the recipient electronic device by, for example, changing the
parameters of the activities stored in the activities files on
those electronic devices.
[0182] In step 2414, the lifestyle companion system can distribute
rewards to the users, as described, for example, in the
incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS document and the incorporated
provisional patent application.
[0183] FIG. 27 shows an illustrative flow chart for implementing a
nutrition program with the lifestyle companion system in accordance
with one embodiment of the present invention. In step 2502, the
lifestyle companion system can provide a platform for conducting an
interview related to nutrition. Interview questions can be directed
to, e.g., weight-loss goals, the user's current diet, food
allergies, food preferences, medical conditions, medications,
financial allocation for nutritional needs, religion, time
available to prepare food, other lifestyle information, etc. Based
on the user interview responses, the lifestyle companion system can
generate a user nutritional profile to which the lifestyle
companion system can later refer in steps 2504-2506 and
2526-2520.
[0184] In step 2503, the lifestyle companion system can supplement
the user's profile with the profiles of dining partners so that the
lifestyle companion system can suggest, for example, nutritional
activities (e.g., recipes, restaurants, etc.) that are appropriate
for the user and his dining partners.
[0185] In step 2504, the lifestyle companion system can assign
nutritional category levels based on the user's interview
responses. For example, users may be labeled as vegan, vegetarian,
kosher, lactose intolerant, dieter, etc.
[0186] In step 2506, the lifestyle companion system can suggest
nutrition activities, references, and/or plug-in modules based
directly or indirectly on the user's interview responses. For
example, the lifestyle companion system can recommend the user
patronize certain restaurants in the area's hometown. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the lifestyle companion system
can be linked to the menus of restaurants and the lifestyle
companion system can suggest menu selections based, for example, on
the user's nutritional needs and restrictions and/or on the user's
availability of funds.
[0187] In one embodiment of the present invention, a user can be
provided with a portable electronic device on which is stored his
user nutrition profile. The user can be dining at a suggested
restaurant and desire the lifestyle companion system to suggest
menu selections based on his dietary and financial restrictions. If
the user's portable electronic device already has the restaurant's
menu stored in its memory, the user's device can immediately
cross-reference the user's profile with the menu to select
appropriate menu selections. However, if the user's portable
electronic device does not have the restaurant's menu stored in its
memory, the user can download the menu by linking his device to the
restaurant's server. This can be accomplished, for example, by
coupling the communication module on the user's device to an
internet link or a dock coupled to the restaurant's server. Once
the restaurant's menu is downloaded into the user's device, the
device can select the appropriate menu selections. The user's
device can provide the suggestions audibly and/or through graphics
(e.g., text, still images, and/or video) on a display.
[0188] The lifestyle companion system also can suggest recipes
and/or meal plans tailored to the needs of the user. The recipes
and meal plans can be suggested based on the user's nutritional
needs and/or restrictions, any specific diets the user is trying,
relevant life events (e.g., a user's birthday and/or the user's
exercise schedule), etc. In one embodiment of the present
invention, the system can receive input from local food providers
(e.g., grocery stores). Thus, the recipes and meal plans suggested
by the lifestyle companion system also can be influenced by a
variation of prices at the local food providers.
[0189] The lifestyle companion system also can suggest websites or
plug-in modules for special diet plans, e.g., diet plans branded by
Jenny Craig or Weight Watchers. The lifestyle companion system can
be pre-loaded with plug-in modules related to nutrition or the user
can download nutrition plug-in modules from a database of such
offerings, e.g., from iTunes.TM..
[0190] In step 2508, the lifestyle companion system can provide a
platform for the user to create nutrition activities. For example,
the lifestyle companion system can provide an interface similar to
interface 1200 of FIG. 12 for the user to plan meals or customize
meal plans suggested by the lifestyle companion system in step
2506. However, rather than building blocks of fitness activities,
the nutrition interface can offer building blocks of recipes or
food dishes sorted, for example, by the food groups and/or courses
(e.g. appetizer, entree, or dessert).
[0191] In step 2510, the lifestyle companion system can provide a
platform for the user to schedule nutrition activities. For
example, the user can schedule shopping trips to local food
providers identified with respect to the recipes suggested in step
2506. The user also can schedule dining out opportunities at the
restaurants suggested in step 2506.
[0192] In step 2512, the lifestyle companion system can provide
audio and/or visual cues related to the nutritional activities. For
example, the lifestyle companion system can provide nutritional
information about a selected restaurant and/or menu selection. The
lifestyle companion system also can indicate how the menu
selections affect the user's nutritional plan and/or goals.
[0193] Another example of a visual cue can include graphic
indications of suggested portion size. For example, if a recipe or
diet plan calls for a certain portion of an ingredient or food, the
lifestyle companion system can provide visual comparisons of the
suggested portion size to an everyday object. Illustratively, if a
recipe or meal plan calls for a cup of broccoli, the lifestyle
companion system can graphically indicate that a cup of broccoli
may have a size comparable to a baseball.
[0194] In step 2514, the lifestyle companion system can collect
data about the user's performance of an activity. For example, the
user can carry a portable electronic device having a scanner that
can scan a barcode representing the food purchased and/or eaten by
the user. Alternatively, the user can couple his portable
electronic device into a dock at a restaurant. A server at the
restaurant then can download nutritional information about the
user's meal into the user's device.
[0195] In step 2516, the lifestyle companion system can dynamically
adapt the user's nutritional goals and/or activities based on the
data collected in step 2514. For example, if a user consumes too
many calories, the lifestyle companion system can reduce the user's
future allotment of calories by, for example, suggesting different
recipes or menu selections in step 2506, suggesting different
portions in steps 2506 and 2512, and/or changing the ingredients in
suggested recipes. The lifestyle companion system also can adjust
the user's nutritional goals if data collected over a predetermined
period of time indicate that the user's nutritional habits will not
enable the user to reach the user's nutritional goals.
[0196] In step 2518, the lifestyle companion system can provide
progress reports related to the user's nutritional habits, goals,
and/or activities.
[0197] In step 2520, the lifestyle companion system can distribute
rewards to the user based on nutrition data collected in step 2514,
as described, for example, in the incorporated REWARDS SYSTEMS
document and the incorporated provisional patent application.
[0198] Although particular embodiments of the present invention
have been described above in detail, it will be understood that
this description is merely for purposes of illustration.
Alternative embodiments of those described hereinabove also are
within the scope of the present invention. For example, alternative
embodiments of the present invention can incorporate any one or
more of the steps described with respect to FIGS. 1, 24, and 25.
For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, the
lifestyle companion system can permit a user to compile and play
back a compilation of activities without the user having to go
through an interview and/or without collected data about the user's
activities. Also, alternative embodiments of the present invention
also can provide any one or more of the screens and user interfaces
described herein.
[0199] Furthermore, various embodiments described herein or
portions thereof can be combined without departing from the present
invention. For example, fitness partners can use the lifestyle
companion software described with respect to FIGS. 12-13 to compose
separate workout compilations customized for each individual, use
their respective portable electronic devices to control and collect
data from exercise machines as described with respect to FIG. 22,
and use their respective portable electronic devices to influence
operation of each other's portable electronic device as described
with respect to FIG. 24.
[0200] The above described embodiments of the present invention are
presented for purposes of illustration and not of limitation, and
the present invention is limited only by the claims which
follow.
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