U.S. patent application number 15/272496 was filed with the patent office on 2018-03-22 for intelligent variable resistance weight training machines.
The applicant listed for this patent is Roberto Horowitz, Anantha Pradeep, Tarek Zohdi. Invention is credited to Roberto Horowitz, Anantha Pradeep, Tarek Zohdi.
Application Number | 20180078821 15/272496 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 61617780 |
Filed Date | 2018-03-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20180078821 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pradeep; Anantha ; et
al. |
March 22, 2018 |
INTELLIGENT VARIABLE RESISTANCE WEIGHT TRAINING MACHINES
Abstract
Provided are mechanisms and processes relating to intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment such as a weight lifting
machine or weight training apparatus. In one example, a system
includes a magnetic resistance mechanism that applies and varies
magnetic resistance corresponding to gravity based weight
resistance for a user performing a weight training exercise. The
equipment may include data storage that maintains exercise profiles
and a processor that adjusts the amount of gravity based weight
resistance based on a profile identified for the user.
Inventors: |
Pradeep; Anantha; (Piedmont,
CA) ; Zohdi; Tarek; (Piedmont, CA) ; Horowitz;
Roberto; (Piedmont, CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pradeep; Anantha
Zohdi; Tarek
Horowitz; Roberto |
Piedmont
Piedmont
Piedmont |
CA
CA
CA |
US
US
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
61617780 |
Appl. No.: |
15/272496 |
Filed: |
September 22, 2016 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/00192 20130101;
A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B 24/0075 20130101; A63B 71/0619
20130101; A63B 2071/0675 20130101; A63B 2220/80 20130101; A63B
21/06 20130101; A63B 22/025 20151001; A63B 21/151 20130101; A63B
24/0087 20130101; A63B 24/0062 20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001;
A63B 2225/50 20130101; A63B 2225/54 20130101; A63B 22/0605
20130101; A63B 2071/0658 20130101; A63B 2225/15 20130101; A63B
21/0056 20130101; A63B 2209/08 20130101; A63B 21/005 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A63B 24/00 20060101
A63B024/00; A63B 71/06 20060101 A63B071/06; A63B 21/00 20060101
A63B021/00; A63B 21/06 20060101 A63B021/06; A63B 21/005 20060101
A63B021/005; A63B 22/06 20060101 A63B022/06; A63B 22/02 20060101
A63B022/02 |
Claims
1. A weight resistance machine comprising: an intelligent variable
weight resistance mechanism configured to vary the amount of weight
resistance applied for a user during a weight training exercise; a
display configured to provide an indicator of an amount of weight
resistance applied; data storage configured to maintain a plurality
of exercise profiles; and a processor configured to automatically
adjust the intelligent variable weight resistance mechanism based
on a selected exercise profile during the weight training
exercise.
2. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the
intelligent variable weight resistance mechanism comprises a
magnetic plate configured to apply a magnetic force corresponding
to a gravitational force associated with a particular weight
selected by the user.
3. The weight resistance machine of claim 2, wherein the selected
exercise profile is identified using a mobile device associated
with the user.
4. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the mobile
device is a wearable mobile device.
5. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the
intelligent variable weight resistance mechanisms comprises a
plurality of magnetic coils configured to a apply a magnetic force
corresponding to a gravitational force associated with a particular
weight selected by the user.
6. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the weight
resistance machine automatically varies the weight resistance based
on a profile associated with the mobile device of the user.
7. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the weight
resistance machine is a weight lifting machine.
8. The weight resistance machine of claim 1, wherein the weight
resistance is applied along cables connected a handle bar for the
user.
7. A system comprising: an automatic detection mechanism associated
with an intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment that
automatically identifies a user, without any manual input from the
user, when the user engages with the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment, wherein the automatic detection
mechanism includes a personal device interface that receives a
personal exercise profile associated with the user, the personal
exercise profile including information about a preferred workout
routine for the user and corresponding settings for a resistance
mechanism associated with the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment; and a processor that automatically adjusts the
resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment based on the preferred workout
routine for the user and corresponding settings for the resistance
mechanism associated with the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment.
8. The system of claim 7, wherein the personal device interface
receives a signal from a personal device associated with the user,
wherein the signal is used by the processor to identify the
user.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the signal is sent when the user
is in proximity to the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment.
10. The system of claim 8, wherein the signal is sent remotely to
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment.
11. The system of claim 7, wherein the resistance mechanism uses
electromagnetic induction to provide resistance and braking for the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment, and wherein the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment is a weight
machine.
12. A method comprising: automatically detecting a user at an
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment, wherein
detecting the user includes identifying the user without any manual
input from the user; retrieving a personal exercise profile
associated with the user, wherein the personal exercise profile
includes information about a preferred workout routine for the user
and corresponding settings for a resistance mechanism associated
with the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment; and
automatically adjusting the resistance mechanism associated with
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment based on the
preferred workout routine for the user.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein automatically detecting the
user includes using a proximity sensor to identify the user upon
detecting a personal device associated with the user.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein automatically detecting the
user includes identifying the user based on biometric information
obtained from the user.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein automatically detecting the
user includes receiving a signal from a personal device associated
with the user.
16. The method of claim 12, wherein the resistance mechanism uses
electromagnetic induction to provide resistance and braking for the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment, wherein
automatically adjusting the resistance mechanism includes adjusting
the electromagnetic induction based on the preferred workout
routine, and wherein the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment is a weight machine.
17. The method of claim 12, further comprising providing the user
with exercise options, wherein the exercise options include the
preferred workout routine.
18. The method of claim 17, further comprising receiving input to
start a workout session once the user has selected an exercise
option.
19. The method of claim 12, further comprising receiving an input
to change the preferred workout routine to an alternative workout
routine, and automatically adjusting the resistance mechanism
associated with the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment based on the alternative workout routine.
20. The method of claim 19, further comprising saving the
alternative workout routine to the personal exercise profile
associated with the user.
Description
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates to intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment. In one example, the present
disclosure relates to mechanisms and processes for intelligently
controlling resistance associated with a weight machine.
BACKGROUND
[0002] Various exercise equipment such as weight machines,
stationary bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines, and other
gravity and resistance based workout machines provide ways for
people to exercise and maintain their fitness. Because individuals
may have different fitness levels, they may prefer different
workout settings. Typically, these settings are manually entered by
a user. Weight machines involve individuals setting a particular
weight to exercise a particular muscle or muscle group. The
individuals can then set a different weight at a different time.
Treadmills may allow individuals to input data via a screen or
buttons attached to treadmill.
[0003] However, manually changing weights or inputting settings and
logging in to the electronics associated with the exercise
equipment can be time consuming and tedious, especially for users
who work out frequently. Additionally, users who like to use
different exercise machines during a workout will usually have to
log in to each machine individually, which can disrupt the workout
flow. Accordingly, various aspects of the present invention provide
improvements over typical exercise equipment systems.
SUMMARY
[0004] Provided are mechanisms and processes relating to
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment such as a weight
lifting machine or weight training apparatus. In one example, a
system includes a magnetic resistance mechanism that applies and
varies magnetic resistance corresponding to gravity based weight
resistance for a user performing a weight training exercise. The
equipment may include data storage that maintains exercise profiles
and a processor that dynamically adjusts the amount of gravity
based weight resistance based on a profile identified for the user
during and between workout sequences.
[0005] In one aspect, which may include at least a portion of the
subject matter of any of the preceding and/or following examples
and aspects, a system includes an automatic detection mechanism,
data storage, and a processor. The automatic detection mechanism is
associated with intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
and automatically identifies a user when the user engages with the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment, without any
manual input from the user. The data storage is also associated
with the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment and
stores personal exercise profiles associated with numerous users.
The processor accesses a personal exercise profile associated with
the user once the user is detected and automatically adjusts a
weight or resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment based on the personal
exercise profile for the user.
[0006] In another aspect, which may include at least a portion of
the subject matter of any of the preceding and/or following
examples and aspects, a system includes an automatic detection
mechanism and a processor. The automatic detection mechanism is
associated with intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
and automatically identifies a user when the user engages with the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment, without any
manual input from the user. The automatic detection mechanism
includes a personal device interface that receives a personal
exercise profile associated with the user that includes information
about a preferred workout routine for the user and corresponding
settings for a resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment. The processor automatically
adjusts the resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment based on the preferred
workout routine for the user and corresponding settings for the
resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment.
[0007] In yet another aspect, which may include at least a portion
of the subject matter of any of the preceding and/or following
examples and aspects, a method includes automatically detecting a
user at intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment without
receiving any manual input from the user. The method further
includes retrieving a personal exercise profile associated with the
user, where the personal exercise profile includes information
about a preferred workout routine for the user and corresponding
settings for a resistance mechanism associated with the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment. The method also includes
automatically adjusting the resistance mechanism associated with
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment based on the
preferred workout routine for the user.
[0008] These and other embodiments are described further below with
reference to the figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 illustrates one example of an intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment system.
[0010] FIG. 2 illustrates another example of an intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment system.
[0011] FIG. 3 illustrates another example of an intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment system.
[0012] FIG. 4 illustrates another example of an intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment system.
[0013] FIG. 5 illustrates one example of a flow diagram depicting a
process for intelligently and automatically adjusting magnetic
resistance in exercise equipment for a detected user.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
[0014] Reference will now be made in detail to some specific
examples of the present disclosure including the best modes
contemplated by the inventors for carrying out the present
disclosure. Examples of these specific embodiments are illustrated
in the accompanying drawings. While the present disclosure is
described in conjunction with these specific embodiments, it will
be understood that it is not intended to limit the present
disclosure to the described embodiments. On the contrary, it is
intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as
may be included within the spirit and scope of the present
disclosure as defined by the appended claims.
[0015] In the following description, numerous specific details are
set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the
present invention. Particular example embodiments of the present
invention may be implemented without some or all of these specific
details. In other instances, well known process operations have not
been described in detail in order not to unnecessarily obscure the
present invention.
[0016] Various techniques and mechanisms of the present invention
will sometimes be described in singular form for clarity. However,
it should be noted that some embodiments include multiple
iterations of a technique or multiple instantiations of a mechanism
unless noted otherwise. For example, a system uses a processor in a
variety of contexts. However, it will be appreciated that a system
can use multiple processors while remaining within the scope of the
present invention unless otherwise noted. Furthermore, the
techniques and mechanisms of the present invention will sometimes
describe a connection between two entities. It should be noted that
a connection between two entities does not necessarily mean a
direct, unimpeded connection, as a variety of other entities may
reside between the two entities. For example, a processor may be
connected to memory, but it will be appreciated that a variety of
bridges and controllers may reside between the processor and
memory. Consequently, a connection does not necessarily mean a
direct, unimpeded connection unless otherwise noted.
[0017] Exercise equipment machines such as weight lifting machines,
weight training machines, exercise bikes, elliptical machines, and
treadmills, are popular machines used for individual fitness and
health. Typically, exercise equipment includes manual or electronic
mechanisms for allowing a user to change the resistance of an
exercise machine. In some examples, a user may modify the amount of
weight resistance by attaching additional weight plates to a cable
or bar. In other examples, settings are manually input by a user,
such as by entering data through a screen or via buttons attached
to an exercise machine. In some instances, a user can log in and
retrieve preferred workout settings and routines. However,
inputting settings and logging into the electronics associated with
the exercise equipment can be time consuming and tedious,
especially for weight training equipment. With weight training
equipment, weight plates may need to be manually adjusted every
time a user wants to change the degree of difficulty of a workout.
For example, chest, arm, shoulder, and leg strength exercises
versus endurance based exercises typically involve a user adjusting
the amount or number of weight plates attached or mounted to a bar
or cable. If a user wishes to increase the weight from 1401 bs to
1701 bs, the user would have to adjust the amount or number of
weight plates attached. However, it is recognized that this may
disrupt a user's exercise experience. Furthermore, there is no way
of easily changing the amount of weight based resistance during a
sequence of repetitions or even during a single repetition.
[0018] Accordingly, various aspects of the present invention
provide improvements over typical exercise equipment systems.
Specifically, in various examples, a weight training system allows
for dynamic and intelligent adjustment of the amount of gravity
based weight applied for a user performing a weight training
activity. For example, a user performing a bench press can have the
amount of gravity based weight intelligently varied during a
sequence of repetitions without interruption to stop and change the
amount of weights attached to a bar or cable. According to various
embodiments, the amount of magnetic force applied changes based on
the workout profile selected by the user or selected for the user.
According to various embodiments, a system is provided that allows
an intelligent variable resistance exercise machine to detect a
user and user workout characteristics and adjust the workout
settings for the user automatically, without the user having to
manually input any data or login information. In particular
embodiments, the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
detects a personal device associated with the user or biometric
information provided by the user to identify the user. The
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment then accesses a
personal exercise profile for the user that provides information
about the user's preferred workout routine. For example, the user
may prefer 10 repetitions at 501bs, 20 repetitions at 1001bs, and
10 repetitions at 351bs. The intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment then automatically adjusts a resistance
mechanism designed to provide resistance based on the preferred
workout routine.
[0019] According to various embodiments, the resistance applied for
strength training is constant to approximate the constant
gravitational force applied to weight based exercise equipment. In
some examples, magnetic resistance is varied to apply constant
force. It is recognized that many rowing machines or treadmills
based on magnetic resistance do not have constant force as momentum
from a flywheel can decrease the amount of force that the user
needs to apply once the flywheel begins to rotate. By contrast, the
techniques of the present invention contemplate generating constant
force when desired by applying a variety of varying magnetic and
mechanical based resistance mechanisms.
[0020] In some examples, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment recognizes that a particular sequence of weight
training exercises may have been performed very rapidly suggesting
that the user has mastered this sequence. Additional weight or
force may then be applied to a subsequent sequence to continue to
challenge the user. In particular embodiments, the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment determines when the exercise
has become too easy or too difficult and adjusts resistance
accordingly. This system allows a user to efficiently engage in a
workout routine without having to spend time adjusting the settings
used during a workout session. Instead, the user can begin a
workout routine immediately upon approaching each intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment.
[0021] With reference to FIG. 1, shown is one example of an
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment system. As
shown, an intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115
communicates wirelessly with a personal device 101 associated with
a user. In particular, the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 115 detects the user and then automatically controls a
resistance mechanism 119 associated with the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 115 based on a personal exercise
profile associated with the user.
[0022] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 115 is designed to detect a personal device 101
associated with a user. The personal device 101 can be a mobile
device, smart phone, wearable device, tablet, computer, or the
like, which stores a personal exercise profile 107 for the user.
The personal exercise profile 107 includes information about a
preferred workout routine for the user and may also include
corresponding settings for the resistance mechanism 119 associated
with the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115.
The personal exercise profile 107 can also include any number of
workout routines that the user likes to use and any associated
settings.
[0023] According to various embodiments, personal device 101 also
includes a processor 103, memory 105, display 111, bus 113, and
exercise equipment interface 109. The processor 103 performs
various actions such as retrieving the personal exercise profile
107 and sending it to the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 115 via exercise equipment interface 109. The interface
109 may include separate input and output interfaces, or may be a
unified interface supporting both operations. The interface 109 is
typically configured to send and receive data packets or data
segments over a network. Personal device 101 uses memory 105 to
store data and program instructions and maintain a local side
cache. The program instructions may control the operation of an
operating system and/or one or more applications, for example. The
memory or memories may also be configured to store received
metadata and batch requested metadata. Display 111 can include a
touch screen, LCD, LED, or the like. Additionally, bus 113 can
include a PCI bus, or the like. Although particular components are
shown, it should be recognized that some components can be omitted
in some examples. For instance, display 111 can be omitted in some
examples if the personal device 101 is a wearable device, fitness
device, or the like.
[0024] As shown in the present example, user 135 interacts with
personal device 101, such as by wearing, holding or otherwise being
associated with the personal device 101. The personal device 101
communicates wirelessly with the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 115 via exercise equipment interface 109 and
personal device interface 117, respectively. In some examples,
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115 communicates
with personal device 101 when personal device 101 is detected
within a physical proximity to the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 115. In other examples, personal device 101 can
communicate with intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
115 remotely to prepare for an upcoming workout.
[0025] According to various embodiments, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 115 includes a personal device
interface 117, resistance mechanism 119, bus 121, processor 123,
memory 125, and display 127. These components of intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment 115 operate together to
control the resistance mechanism 119 automatically and/or remotely
using a personal exercise profile 107 associated with the user
and/or personal device 101 to provide a workout routine for the
user. Specifically, various components work together as an
automatic detection mechanism that automatically identifies the
user without any manual input from the user when the user engages
with the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
115.
[0026] In the present example, interface 117 receives a personal
exercise profile 107 from personal device 101. The personal
exercise profile may include information about a preferred workout
routine for the user and may also include corresponding settings
for a resistance mechanism 119 associated with the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment. In some examples, personal
device interface 117 also receives a signal from personal device
101 prior to receiving the personal exercise profile 107. This
signal is used by the processor 123 to identify the user.
Specifically, the signal can be sent when the user is in proximity
to the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115 in
some embodiments. Additionally, the signal can be sent remotely to
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment in some
embodiments. For instance, the signal can be sent in preparation
for the user's upcoming workout.
[0027] In some examples, interface 117 may include separate input
and output interfaces, or may be a unified interface supporting
both operations. The interface 117 is typically configured to send
and receive data packets or data segments over a network. For
instance, the interface 117 may send and receive communications to
and from personal device 101.
[0028] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 115 includes resistance mechanism 119. This
resistance mechanism 119 is adjusted to provide the desired
difficulty in a workout for the user. In particular embodiments,
the resistance mechanism 119 uses magnetic resistance.
Specifically, electromagnetic induction is used to provide
resistance and braking that can be very smooth and provide
continuous resistance. The intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 115 can be built with or retrofitted with magnetic
resistance plates so that resistance can be controlled
automatically or remotely using the personal exercise profile 107
associated with the user and/or personal device 101. For instance,
various types of exercise equipment such as an exercise bike,
elliptical machine, treadmill, weight machine, or the like, can be
built with or retrofitted with magnetic resistance plates. For a
weight machine, free weights can be replaced with magnetic
resistance that can provide the desired amount of weight that the
user would like to lift, press, etc.
[0029] In some examples, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 115 may also include electronic controls that
allow the resistance to be set by the user, as is typical of
exercise equipment using magnetic resistance. These electronic
controls can be included in a control panel on or near the
handlebars of the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 115. Although the user may be able to control and adjust
the resistance of the equipment manually by using the electronic
controls, the user can also rely on default controls provided by
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115 and
personal device 101 if the user does not want to enter any manual
inputs. Furthermore, in some examples, any inputs that the user
enters into the electronic controls can be logged in the user's
personal exercise profile 107 for future reference or settings.
[0030] Although various mechanisms and methods described herein
relate to magnetic resistance, the methods can also be used with
direct contact or other types of resistance mechanisms in exercise
equipment. For instance, exercise equipment using direct-contact
resistance such as brake pads or friction bands can also be
retrofitted with an electronic control system that would control
the mechanical aspects of the equipment in accordance with various
embodiments described. In particular, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 115 can be built with or retrofitted
with these mechanical aspects so that resistance can be controlled
automatically or remotely using a personal exercise profile
associated with the user and/or personal device 101.
[0031] In the present example, the processor 123 performs various
actions such as controlling the resistance mechanism 119 in
accordance with a chosen workout routine from the personal exercise
profile 107. Specifically, the processor 123 automatically adjusts
the resistance mechanism 119 based on a preferred workout routine
for the user, as indicated in the personal exercise profile 107
provided by personal device 101, and corresponding settings for the
resistance mechanism 119. When acting under the control of
appropriate software or firmware, the processor 123 may also be
responsible for such tasks such as optimization. Various specially
configured devices can also be used in place of a processor 123 or
in addition to processor 123. The complete implementation can also
be done in custom hardware.
[0032] According to various embodiments, intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 115 uses memory 125 to store data and
program instructions and maintain a local side cache. The program
instructions may control the operation of an operating system
and/or one or more applications, for example. The memory or
memories may also be configured to store received metadata and
batch requested metadata. Display 127 can include a touch screen,
LCD, LED, or the like. Additionally, bus 121 can include a PCI bus,
or the like. Although particular components are shown as part of
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 115, it
should be recognized that some components can be added or omitted
in some examples.
[0033] Because information and program instructions may be employed
to implement the systems/methods described in various embodiments
herein, the present invention relates to tangible, machine readable
media that include program instructions, state information, etc.
for performing various operations described herein. Examples of
machine-readable media include hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic
tape, optical media such as CD-ROM disks and DVDs; magneto-optical
media such as optical disks, and hardware devices that are
specially configured to store and perform program instructions,
such as read-only memory devices (ROM) and programmable read-only
memory devices (PROMs). Examples of program instructions include
both machine code, such as produced by a compiler, and files
containing higher level code that may be executed by the computer
using an interpreter.
[0034] With reference to FIG. 2, shown is another example of an
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment system. As
shown, an intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 205
communicates with a personal device 201 associated with a user. In
particular, the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
205 detects the user and automatically controls a resistance
mechanism 209 associated with the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 205 based on a personal exercise profile
associated with the user.
[0035] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 205 is designed to detect a personal device 201
associated with a user 235. The personal device 201 can be a
wearable device, key fob, dongle, or the like, which stores a
personal identifier 203 that includes identification information
associated with the user. The personal identifier 203 can include a
code, a tag, a name, or other identifier associated with the user.
In some embodiments, the personal device may also include
components such as a processor, memory, and display 217. These
components may be simplified to perform specific tasks such as
maintaining information associated with the personal identifier
203, in some examples.
[0036] As shown in the present example, user 235 interacts with
personal device 201, such as by wearing, holding or otherwise being
associated with the personal device 201. The personal device 201
can be detected wirelessly by a proximity sensor 207 associated
with an intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 205 when
the personal device 201 is within a particular range of the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 205. In some
examples, personal device 201 includes a tag or emits signals that
are detectable by proximity sensor 207.
[0037] According to various embodiments, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 205 includes a proximity sensor 207,
resistance mechanism 209, data storage 211, processor 213, memory
215, display 217, and bus 219. These components of intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment 205 operate together to
control the resistance mechanism 209 automatically and/or remotely
using profiles associated with the user and/or personal device 201
to provide a workout routine for the user. Specifically, various
components work together as an automatic detection mechanism that
automatically identifies the user without any manual input from the
user when the user engages with the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment.
[0038] In the present example, proximity sensor 207 detects the
personal identifier 203 associated with personal device 201. Once
the proximity sensor 207 detects the personal identifier 203, the
user can be identified by the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 205. According to various embodiments, the
proximity sensor 207 can employ technologies such as near field
communication (NFC), radio frequency identifier (RFID), or the
like, to recognize a personal identifier 203 such as an NFC tag,
RFID tag, or the like, associated with the personal device 201. In
some instances, the proximity sensor 207 can include an interface
that receives wireless signals, such as data packets or data
segments over a network, emitted from the personal device 201. In
other instances, the proximity sensor 207 can include an interface
that sends out wireless signals such as data packets or data
segments over a network, to detect if personal device 201 is
nearby. Additionally, in some instances, an interface can include
both input and output capabilities.
[0039] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 205 includes resistance mechanism 209. This
resistance mechanism 209 is adjusted to provide the desired
difficulty in a workout for the user. In particular embodiments,
the resistance mechanism 209 uses magnetic resistance.
Specifically, electromagnetic induction is used to provide
resistance and braking that can be very smooth and provide
continuous resistance. The intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 205 can be built with or retrofitted with magnetic
resistance plates so that resistance can be controlled
automatically or remotely based on a personal exercise profile
associated with the user 235. For instance, various types of
exercise equipment such as an exercise bike, elliptical machine,
treadmill, weight machine, or the like, can be built with or
retrofitted with magnetic resistance plates. For a weight machine,
free weights can be replaced with magnetic resistance that can
provide the desired amount of weight that the user would like to
lift, press, etc.
[0040] In some examples, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 205 may also include electronic controls that
allow the resistance to be set by the user, as is typical of
exercise equipment using magnetic resistance. These electronic
controls can be included in a control panel on or near the
handlebars of the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 205. Although the user may be able to control and adjust
the resistance of the equipment manually by using the electronic
controls, the user can also rely on default controls provided by
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 205 based on
the user's personal exercise profile if the user does not want to
enter any manual inputs. Furthermore, in some examples, any inputs
that the user enters into the electronic controls can be logged in
the user's personal exercise profile for future reference or
settings.
[0041] Although various mechanisms and methods described herein
relate to magnetic resistance, the methods can also be used with
direct contact or other types of resistance mechanisms in exercise
equipment. For instance, exercise equipment using direct-contact
resistance such as brake pads or friction bands can also be
retrofitted with an electronic control system that would control
the mechanical aspects of the equipment in accordance with various
embodiments described. In particular, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 205 can be built with or retrofitted
with these mechanical aspects so that resistance can be controlled
automatically or remotely using profiles associated with the
user.
[0042] In the present example, data storage 211 is used to store
personal exercise profiles for different users. Each user is
associated with a personal identifier that corresponds to a
personal exercise profile for the user. Accordingly, each personal
exercise profile is stored with information about its associated
personal identifier. A personal exercise profile may include
information about a preferred workout routine for an associated
user and may also include the corresponding settings for a
resistance mechanism 209 associated with the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment. A personal exercise profile can also
include any number of workout routines that a corresponding user
likes to use, including workout history, and any associated
settings.
[0043] In the present example, the processor 213 performs various
actions such as controlling the resistance mechanism 209 in
accordance with a chosen workout routine from a personal exercise
profile associated with user 235. Specifically, the processor 213
accesses a personal exercise profile associated with the user 211
from data storage 211 and automatically adjusts the resistance
mechanism 209 based on a preferred workout routine indicated in the
personal exercise profile and corresponding settings for the
resistance mechanism 209. When acting under the control of
appropriate software or firmware, the processor 213 may also be
responsible for such tasks such as optimization. Various specially
configured devices can also be used in place of a processor 213 or
in addition to processor 213. The complete implementation can also
be done in custom hardware.
[0044] According to various embodiments, intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 205 uses memory 215 to store data and
program instructions and maintain a local side cache. The program
instructions may control the operation of an operating system
and/or one or more applications, for example. The memory or
memories may also be configured to store received metadata and
batch requested metadata. Display 217 can include a touch screen,
LCD, LED, or the like. Additionally, bus 219 can include a PCI bus,
or the like. Although particular components are shown as part of
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 205, it
should be recognized that some components can be added or omitted
in some examples.
[0045] Because information and program instructions may be employed
to implement the systems/methods described in various embodiments
herein, the present invention relates to tangible, machine readable
media that include program instructions, state information, etc.
for performing various operations described herein. Examples of
machine-readable media include hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic
tape, optical media such as CD-ROM disks and DVDs; magneto-optical
media such as optical disks, and hardware devices that are
specially configured to store and perform program instructions,
such as read-only memory devices (ROM) and programmable read-only
memory devices (PROMs). Examples of program instructions include
both machine code, such as produced by a compiler, and files
containing higher level code that may be executed by the computer
using an interpreter.
[0046] With reference to FIG. 3, shown is another example of an
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment system. As
shown, intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 305
identifies the user based on biometric information obtained from
the user. The intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
305 then accesses a personal exercise profile associated with user
335 from data storage 311 and automatically controls resistance
mechanism 309 to implement a workout routine for the user 335.
[0047] According to various embodiments, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 305 includes a biometric identifier
307, resistance mechanism 309, data storage 311, processor 313,
memory 315, display 317, and bus 319. These components of
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 305 operate
together to control the resistance mechanism 309 automatically
using information stored in a personal exercise profile associated
with the user 335 to provide a workout routine for the user.
Specifically, various components work together as an automatic
detection mechanism that automatically identifies the user without
any manual input from the user when the user engages with the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment.
[0048] In the present example, biometric identifier 307 is designed
to identify a user 335 based on biometric information provided by
the user. For instance, physiological characteristics such as a
fingerprint, a palm print, an iris, a retina, facial features (e.g.
for facial recognition), etc. can be presented by the user 335 to
the biometric identifier 307 of the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 305. The biometric identifier 307 receives the
biometric information provided by the user and then identifies the
user. For instance, the biometric identifier 307 can retrieve a
matching template from a database of stored biometric data to
identify the user 335.
[0049] According to various embodiments, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 305 includes resistance mechanism
309. This resistance mechanism 309 is adjusted to provide the
desired difficulty in a workout for the user. In particular
embodiments, the resistance mechanism 309 uses magnetic resistance.
Specifically, electromagnetic induction is used to provide
resistance that can be very smooth and provide continuous
resistance. The intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment
305 can be built with or retrofitted with magnetic resistance
plates so that resistance can be controlled automatically using
profiles associated with the user 335. For instance, various types
of exercise equipment such as an exercise bike, elliptical machine,
treadmill, weight machine, or the like, can be built with or
retrofitted with magnetic resistance plates. For a weight machine,
free weights can be replaced with magnetic resistance that can
provide the desired amount of weight that the user would like to
lift, press, etc.
[0050] In some examples, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 305 may also include electronic controls that
allow the resistance to be set by the user, as is typical of
exercise equipment using magnetic resistance. These electronic
controls can be included in a control panel on or near the
handlebars of the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 305. Although the user may be able to control and adjust
the resistance of the equipment manually by using the electronic
controls, the user can also rely on default controls provided by
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 305 based on
the user's personal exercise profile if the user does not want to
enter any manual inputs. Furthermore, in some examples, any inputs
that the user enters into the electronic controls can be logged in
the user's personal exercise profile for future reference or
settings.
[0051] Although various mechanisms and methods described herein
relate to magnetic resistance, the methods can also be used with
direct contact or other types of resistance mechanisms in exercise
equipment. For instance, exercise equipment using direct-contact
resistance such as brake pads or friction bands can also be
retrofitted with an electronic control system that would control
the mechanical aspects of the equipment in accordance with various
embodiments described. In particular, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 305 can be built with or retrofitted
with these mechanical aspects so that resistance can be controlled
automatically or remotely based on a personal exercise profile
associated with the user.
[0052] In the present example, data storage 311 is used to store
personal exercise profiles for different users. Each user is
associated with a biometric template that corresponds to a personal
exercise profile for the user. Accordingly, each personal exercise
profile is stored with biometric information about its associated
user. A personal exercise profile may include information about a
preferred workout routine for an associated user and may also
include the corresponding settings for a resistance mechanism 309
associated with the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment. A personal exercise profile can also include any number
of workout routines that a corresponding user likes to use,
including workout history, and any associated settings.
[0053] In the present example, the processor 313 performs various
actions such as controlling the resistance mechanism 309 in
accordance with a chosen workout routine from a personal exercise
profile associated with user 335. Specifically, the processor 313
accesses a personal exercise profile associated with the user 335
from data storage 311 and automatically adjusts the resistance
mechanism 309 based on a preferred workout routine indicated in the
personal exercise profile and corresponding settings for the
resistance mechanism 309. When acting under the control of
appropriate software or firmware, the processor 313 may also be
responsible for such tasks such as optimization. Various specially
configured devices can also be used in place of a processor 313 or
in addition to processor 313. The complete implementation can also
be done in custom hardware.
[0054] According to various embodiments, intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 305 uses memory 315 to store data and
program instructions and maintain a local side cache. The program
instructions may control the operation of an operating system
and/or one or more applications, for example. The memory or
memories may also be configured to store received metadata and
batch requested metadata. Display 317 can include a touch screen,
LCD, LED, or the like. Additionally, bus 319 can include a PCI bus,
or the like. Although particular components are shown as part of
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 305, it
should be recognized that some components can be added or omitted
in some examples.
[0055] Because information and program instructions may be employed
to implement the systems/methods described in various embodiments
herein, the present invention relates to tangible, machine readable
media that include program instructions, state information, etc.
for performing various operations described herein. Examples of
machine-readable media include hard disks, floppy disks, magnetic
tape, optical media such as CD-ROM disks and DVDs; magneto-optical
media such as optical disks, and hardware devices that are
specially configured to store and perform program instructions,
such as read-only memory devices (ROM) and programmable read-only
memory devices (PROMs). Examples of program instructions include
both machine code, such as produced by a compiler, and files
containing higher level code that may be executed by the computer
using an interpreter.
[0056] With reference to FIG. 4, shown is another example of an
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment system. As
shown, an intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 405
identifies the user based using one of the automatic detection
mechanisms 425 included. Specifically, the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 405 can identify a user using a
personal device interface 429 that receives information from a
personal device, as described with regard to FIG. 1, a proximity
sensor 431, as described with regard to FIG. 2, or a biometric
identifier 427, as described with regard to FIG. 3. Using
information from a personal exercise profile obtained either from
data storage 417 or from a personal device, the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment 405 automatically controls
resistance mechanism 407 to implement a workout routine for the
user.
[0057] In the present example, various users 435 may interact with
the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 405 at
different times. Some of these users 435 may be associated with
personal devices 437, such as mobile devices, smartphones, etc.
that can be detected by intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment 405 via personal device interface 429, as described above
with regard to FIG. 1. Other users 435 may be associated with
personal devices 439, such as wearable devices, bands, fobs,
dongles, etc. that can be detected by intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 405 via proximity sensor 431, as
described above with regard to FIG. 2. Yet other users 435 may
choose to use biometric inputs to allow intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 405 to identify them using biometric
identifier 427. Accordingly, as shown in the present example,
various automatic detection mechanisms 425 can be used to identify
users.
[0058] As described above with regard to FIGS. 1-3, once a user has
been identified, a personal exercise profile for the user is
accessed and a preferred workout routine for the user is
determined. Based on this preferred workout routine, the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment 405 adjusts
resistance mechanism 407 automatically for the user. In particular,
if magnetic resistance is used, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 405 adjusts the electromagnetic induction for
magnetic resistance plates included in the intelligent variable
resistance exercise equipment 405.
[0059] In the present example, intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment 405 includes a resistance mechanism 407,
automatic detection mechanisms 425, processor, memory 411, display
413, bus 415, and data storage 417. Each of these components
operate as described with regard to the corresponding components in
FIGS. 1-3. Although various components are shown in the present
embodiment, it should be recognized that certain components can be
added or removed without deviating from the scope of this
disclosure. For instance, one of the automatic detection mechanisms
can be removed.
[0060] With reference to FIG. 5, shown is one example of a flow
diagram depicting a process for intelligently and automatically
adjusting magnetic resistance in exercise equipment for a detected
user. The process 500 includes automatically detecting a user at
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment at 502 without
requiring any manual input from the user. As described above with
regard various examples, intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment can automatically detect and identify a user by using a
personal device interface, proximity sensor, and/or biometric
identifier, along with other components. Specifically, a personal
device interface can be used to receive a signal from a personal
device associated with the user and various components of the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment can be used to
identify the user. In addition, a proximity sensor can be used to
identify the user upon detecting a personal device associated with
the user. Furthermore, a biometric identifier can be used to
identify the user based on biometric information obtained from the
user.
[0061] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment then obtains a personal exercise profile
associated with the user at 504. As described in various examples
above, the personal exercise profile may be received from a
personal device in some instances and retrieved from data storage
at the intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment in other
instances. As also described, a personal exercise profile includes
information about a preferred workout routine for the user and may
also include corresponding settings for a resistance mechanism
associated with the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment.
[0062] In particular embodiments, exercise options may be presented
to the user or a default routine may be selected at 506. For
instance, options may be presented to a user based on their workout
history or preferred workout routines. In particular examples, the
options may include the user's preferred workout routine.
Presenting options in this way can help save time for the user,
while still providing choices for the user. In other instances, a
default routine can be selected for the user without requesting any
input from the user. Specifically, a preferred workout routine
saved in the user's personal exercise profile may be chosen as the
default routine. This provides a way for the user to begin a
workout quickly and efficiently.
[0063] Next, in some examples, input is received at 508 to start a
workout session. In particular, if a user is presented with workout
options, the input from the user is received in this step. If a
default routine is selected by the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment, then this step is not necessary and can be
omitted in some applications. In other applications, even if a
default routine is selected, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment may still present a prompt to the user to
confirm that they would like to begin their session. Once the user
confirms, such as by a single touch of a button, the workout
routine begins.
[0064] In the present example, the intelligent variable resistance
exercise equipment automatically adjusts the resistance mechanism
based on the workout routine selected for the user at 510. If the
resistance mechanism uses magnetic resistance, then electromagnetic
induction provides resistance and braking for the intelligent
variable resistance exercise equipment. In this instance, the
intelligent variable resistance exercise equipment automatically
adjusts the resistance mechanism by adjusting the electromagnetic
induction based on the preferred workout routine. Similarly, if
another form of resistance mechanism is used, such as a frictional
resistance mechanism, the intelligent variable resistance exercise
equipment can automatically adjust the resistance mechanism by
adjusting the amount of contact or friction applied to the wheel or
other mechanism employed by the apparatus.
[0065] According to various embodiments, an option can be provided
to allow the user to change the settings. For instance, the user
may want to change the type or the difficulty of a current workout
routine. This feature is particularly useful if a default routine
has been selected for the user and the user would like to change
the workout routine from time to time. Specifically, a user may
enter an input to change the preferred workout routine (or other
selected routine) to an alternative workout routine.
[0066] If a request to change the current workout or any settings
in the workout is made, then this information is saved to the
user's personal exercise profile at 514 and the resistance
mechanism is then automatically adjusted to reflect the new workout
routine and/or settings selected at 510. If no request to change
the workout or any settings is made, then a query is made whether
any input has been received to end the workout session at 516. For
instance, such input can include the user explicitly selecting an
option to end the workout session or a determination can be made
that a particular workout routine has ended without any indication
from the user to continue. If no input to end the session is
received, then the process continues and the selected workout
routine continues. If an input to end the session is received, then
the workout session is stopped and the process ends.
[0067] While the present disclosure has been particularly shown and
described with reference to specific embodiments thereof, it will
be understood by those skilled in the art that changes in the form
and details of the disclosed embodiments may be made without
departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Specifically,
there are many alternative ways of implementing the processes,
systems, and apparatuses described. It is therefore intended that
the invention be interpreted to include all variations and
equivalents that fall within the true spirit and scope of the
present invention. Moreover, although particular features have been
described as part of each example, any combination of these
features or additions of other features are intended to be included
within the scope of this disclosure. Accordingly, the embodiments
described herein are to be considered as illustrative and not
restrictive.
* * * * *