Title:

System for interaction with exercise device

Document Type and Number:

United States Patent 7166062

Abstract:

An exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication. The exercise device includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. Communicating with the exercise mechanism is an interface adapted for gathering a first real-time signal from the user. The interface communicates with a communication system for receiving a packetized second real-time signal including a synchronized control signal from the trainer. The exercise device includes an output device configured to reproduce the second real-time signal. The control signals carried by the second signal are used to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.

Representative Image:

System for interaction with exercise device

Inventors:

Watterson, Scott R. (Logan, UT, US)
Dalebout, William T. (Logan, UT, US)
Ashby, Darren C. (Richmond, UT, US)

Plaque It!

RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation-in-part application of patent application Ser. No. 09/349,608, filed Jul. 8, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,312,363 entitled “Systems and Methods for Providing an Improved Exercise Device with Motivational Programming” that is incorporated herein by reference. This application is also a continuation-in-part application of patent application Ser. No. 09/496,560, filed Feb. 2, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,447,424 entitled “System and Method for Selective Adjustment of Exercise Apparatus” that is incorporated herein by reference.

Claims:

What is claimed and desired to be secured by United States Letters Patent is:

1. An exercise device configured to enable the interaction of a user, the exercise device comprising: (a) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user, the exercise mechanism having one or more operating parameters; (b) interface means, communicating with the exercise mechanism, for gathering a first signal from the user; (c) communicating means, communicating with the interface means, for receiving a packetized second signal from a remote source over a network, the packetized second signal including one or more packetized control signals; and (d) means, responsive to the packetized second signal, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

2. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact in real-time communication, the first signal comprising a real time signal and the second signal comprising a real time signal and the means for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism controlling the operating parameters in real time.

3. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the packetized second signal comprises a signal selected from the group consisting of an audio signal, a visual signal, and a control signal.

4. An exercise device as recited in claim 3, wherein the control signal is synchronized with at least one of the audio signal and the visual signal.

5. An exercise device as recited in claim 3, wherein a trainer promulgates the control signal.

6. An exercise device as recited in claim 3, wherein a communication system promulgates the control signal.

7. An exercise device as recited in claim 3, wherein a third party promulgates the control signal.

8. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the interface means is selected from the group consisting of: (i) one or more audio input devices; and (ii) one or more video output devices.

9. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the interface means comprises one or more controllers.

10. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the interface means comprises a video camera integrally formed with the exercise device.

11. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the communicating means enables transmission of the first signal.

12. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the communicating means comprises one or more processors adapted to packetize the first signal gathered by the interface means.

13. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the communicating means is selected from the group consisting of (i) a translator device; and (ii) a computer.

14. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the communicating means receives the packetized second signal including synchronized control signals from a communication system that is in communication with a trainer.

15. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the communicating means communicates with a communication system that is configured to generate one or more second signals.

16. An exercise device as recited in claim 15, wherein the communication system comprises memory configured to store the second signal.

17. An exercise device as recited in claim 1 wherein the first signal comprises one or more signals representative of any measurable parameter of the exercise device.

18. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the first signal comprises one or more signals representative of any measurable parameter of the user of the exercise device.

19. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the first signal represents the status of the exercise device thereby activating the communication means to receive the packetized second signal.

20. An exercise device as recited in claim 19, wherein the status of the exercise device is selected from the group consisting of: (i) an active signal; (ii) inactive signal; and (iii) standby signal.

21. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, further comprising means for reproducing the second signal.

22. An exercise device as recited in claim 21, wherein the means for reproducing the second signal comprises one or more audio output devices and one or more video output devices.

23. An exercise device as recited in claim 21, wherein the means for reproducing the second signal comprises an output device selected from the group consisting of an audio output device and a video output device.

24. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the means for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in comprises one or more controllers configured to separate a synchronized control signal from the second signal.

25. An exercise device as recited in claim 24, wherein the means for controlling further comprises one or more actuators activated by the one or more controllers in response to the synchronized control signal.

26. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the packetized second signal comprises a signal selected from the group consisting of: (i) a packetized control signal; and (ii) a packetized control signal and a signal from a communication system.

27. An exercise device as recited in claim 1, wherein the packetized second signal comprises a packetized control signal and a signal from a trainer, the signal from the trainer comprising a signal selected from the group consisting of an audio signal and a visual signal.

28. An exercise device as recited in claim 27, wherein receipt of said packetized second signal is substantially uninterrupted during receipt of said control signal.

29. An exercise device configured to enable interaction of a user, the exercise device comprising: (a) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user, the exercise mechanism having one or more operating parameters; (b) at least one user interface device, communicating with the exercise mechanism, the at least one interface device gathering a first signal from the user; (c) a communicating mechanism, communicating with the user interface device, the communicating mechanism receiving a packetized second signal from a remote source over a network, the packetized second signal including one or more packetized control signals; and (d) a controller, responsive to the packetized second signal, configured to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

30. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the at least one user interface device is selected from the group consisting of one or more audio input devices and one or more video input devices.

31. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the communicating mechanism comprises an iFit.com button, the iFit.com button adapted to initiate communication with a communication system that enables real-time transmission of the first signal to a trainer.

32. An exercise device as recited in claim 31, wherein the communicating mechanism enables transmission of the first signal, evaluates the first signal and generates the second signal based upon the first signal.

33. An exercise device as recited in claim 32, wherein the first signal-comprises signals that represent one or more parameters of the user exercising on the exercise device.

34. An exercise device as recited in claim 33, wherein the one or more parameters comprise any measurable parameter of the user of the exercise device.

35. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the communicating mechanism comprises a translator device and computer communicating with the exercise mechanism.

36. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, further comprising a control panel, the control panel being configured to enable a user to input the first signal and to receive the second signal.

37. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein said at least one interface device comprises a manual override control, the manual override control being configured to prevent the means, responsive to the packetized second control signal, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time from controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

38. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device further comprises a safety mechanism, said safety mechanism capable of manipulating the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in the event that the packetized second control signal is interrupted.

39. An exercise device a recited in claim 29, wherein the first signal comprises a real time signal, the communicating mechanism receives a packetized second real time signal and the controller is configured to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real time.

40. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device further comprises one or more sensors, said one or more sensors being configured to sense the one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

41. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device further comprise one or more sensors, said one or more sensors being configured to identify whether a user is using the movable element.

42. An exercise device as recited in claim 41, wherein the one or more sensors identify whether the user is an adult or juvenile user.

43. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device is a device selected from the group consisting of a master device, a slave device, and a sub-slave device.

44. An exercise device a recited in claim 43, wherein the exercise device is a slave device and is configured to control one or more sub-slave devices.

45. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device further comprise a diagnostic control, said diagnostic control activating a connection with a communication system to check the status of the exercise device.

46. An exercise device as recited in claim 45, wherein the diagnostic control activates a downloading process to retrieve one or more software updates the from communication system.

47. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the exercise device further comprises a scaling control, the scaling control being configured to enable a user to select a value representative of the proportional change to be made to the packetized control signal received by the communicating means.

48. An exercise device as recited in claim 29, wherein the communicating mechanism enables transmission of the first signal.

49. An exercise device configured to enable a user to receive workout-related information, comprising: (a) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user; (b) a user interface device communicating with the exercise mechanism and configured to gather one or more user control signals from the user; (c) a communicating mechanism in communication with the user interface device and adapted to enable transmission of the user control signals to a romote communication system, the communicating mechanism being further adapted to receive a packetized second signal including synchronized control signals from the romote communication system; (d) means for reproducing the second signal; and (e) means, responsive to the synchronized control signals carried by the second signal, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

50. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the user interface device comprises one or more manually activated controls configured to generate the user control signals.

51. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the user interface device comprises a translator device and a computer.

52. An exercise device as recited in claim 49 wherein the second signal comprises one or more audio and video signals and the synchronized control signal.

53. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the communication system comprises: (a) one or more storage devices adapted to store the one or more audio and video signals; (b) a control signal generator configured to generate one or more synchronized control signals; and (c) a control processor configured to synchronize the synchronized controls signals with the one or more audio and video signals and deliver the second control signal to the communication mechanism.

54. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the communication system receives the one or more audio and video signals and the synchronized control signals from an exercise device of a trainer.

55. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the communication system receives the synchronized control signals from a third party communicating with the communication system.

56. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the exercise device communicates with the communication system via a network.

57. An exercise device as recited in claim 56, wherein the network comprises a network selected from the group consisting of a wide area network, a local area network, a home network, a packetized network, and the Internet.

58. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the communication system comprises a web site comprising one or more web pages, the web site being configured to assist with the transmission of the packetized second signal.

59. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the means for reproducing the second signal comprises one or more audio output devices and one or more video output devices.

60. An exercise device as recited in claim 59, wherein the one or more video output devices comprises one or more video displays.

61. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the communication system analyses the user control signals and generates the packetized second signals based upon the analysis of the user control signals.

62. An exercise device as recited in claim 61, wherein the communication system receives another signal from the exercise device representative of the one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism and generates the packetized second signal based upon the another signal.

63. An exercise device as recited in claim 61, wherein the communication system receives another signal from the exercise device, the another signal being representative of any measurable parameter of the user of the exercise device.

64. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the means, responsive to the synchronized control signals carried by the second signal, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism comprises: (a) a speed actuator configured to vary a speed of the movable element; (b) an incline actuator configured to vary the incline of the movable element; (c) one or more decoders configured to separate the synchronized control signals from the second signal; (d) one or more processors configured to operate the speed actuator and the incline actuator in response the synchronized control signal received from the one or more decoders.

65. An exercise device as recited in claim 49, wherein the means, responsive to the synchronized control signals carried by the second signal, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism comprises: (a) a speed actuator configured to vary a speed of the movable element; (b) a resistance actuator configured to vary the resistance applied to the movable element; (c) one or more decoders configured to separate the synchronized control signals from the second signal; (d) one or more processors configured to operate the speed actuator and the resistance actuator in response the synchronized control signal received from the one or more decoders.

66. An exercise device configured to enable a user thereof to interact with a trainer in real-time communication via a communication line, comprising: (a) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user; (b) a user interface device configured to gather a first real-time signal from the user; (c) a communication interface cooperating with the user interface device and configured to enable real-time communication of the first real-time signal to the trainer and subsequently receiving a second real-time signal from the trainer through a communication system, the communication system being adapted to generate one or more control signals that are synchronized with the second real-time signal; (d) means for reproducing the second real-time signal; and (e) means, responsive to the one or more control signals, for controlling the operating parameters of the exercise device in real-time.

67. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the second real-time signal comprises programming selected from the group consisting of an audio broadcast, a video broadcast, a combined audio and video broadcast, a webcast, a live broadcast, or a prerecorded broadcast.

68. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the second real-time signal comprises programming that is transmitted via a transmission media selected from the group consisting of the air waves, cable, satellite, the internet, radio frequency, wireless, or infra-red.

69. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the means for reproducing the another audio and video signal is integrated into the exercise device.

70. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the means for reproducing the another audio and video signal is separate and distinct from the exercise device.

71. An exercise device as recited in claim 69 or 70, wherein the means for reproducing the another audio and video signal comprises a television.

72. An exercise device as recited in claim 69 or 70, wherein the means for reproducing the another audio and video signal comprises an audio output device and a video output device.

73. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the means for controlling (a) means for decoding the control signals; and (b) means, electrically coupled to the decoding means, for driving the movable element in response to the decoded control signal.

74. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the means for controlling comprises: (a) means for decoding the control signals having an input and an output; and (b) means, electrically coupled to the output of the decoding means, for driving the moveable element in response to the decoded control signal.

75. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the reproducing means comprises a loudspeaker.

76. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the reproducing means comprises an RF transmitter configured to transmit the second signal to an output device.

77. An exercise device as recited in claim 66, wherein the reproducing means comprises an infrared transmitter configured to transmit the second signal to an output device.

78. An exercise device for enabling one or more users to select and perform an exercise program stored on a communication system, the exercise device comprising: (a) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user, the exercise mechanism being configured to enable a user to exercise in response to an exercise program selected from one or more exercise programs stored on a remote communication system in network communication with the exercise mechanism; and (b) control means, communicating with the exercise mechanism, for receiving one or more packetized control signals from the remote communication system indicative of the selected exercise program and for changing one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism based upon the selected exercise program and the one or more packetized control signals.

79. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the selected exercise signals comprise at least one audio signal and at least one video signal.

80. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the communication system comprises one or more storage devices adapted to store the one or more exercise programs.

81. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the network is selected from the group consisting of a local area network, a wide area network, and the Internet.

82. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the exercise mechanism includes one or more actuators configured to vary one or more operating parameters of the exercise mechanism.

83. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the control means comprises at least one decoder configured to decode the one or more packetized control signal and at least one processor configured to activate the one or more actuators in response so the one or more decoded control signals.

84. An exercise device as recited in claim 78, wherein the communication system comprises: (a) one or more storage devices adapted to store the one or more audio and video signals; (b) a control signal generator configured to generate one or more control signals; and (c) a control processor configured to synchronize and packetize the controls signals with the one or more audio and video signals and deliver the packetized control signal to the exercise mechanism.

85. An exercise system comprising: (a) a local system including at least one exercise apparatus to an associated local computer; (b) a remote system including a least one remote computer; and (c) a communication link for communicating packetized data between the local computer and the remote system, such that the local system may receive remote system data from the remote system, including packetized control signals for controlling operation of the at least one excercise apparatus.

86. An excercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the at least one exercise apparatus includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user, and wherein the local system is configured to receive the packetized control signals in real-time, the packetized control signals controlling the movable element in real-time.

87. An exercise system as recited and claim 85, wherein the one or more control signals correspond to an exercise program selected by a user of the least one exercise apparatus.

88. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the one or more control signals control operating parameters of the at least one exercise apparatus, the at least one exercise apparatus having one or more actuators for controlling at least two of the group selected from: speed, resistance, and incline.

89. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the remote system remotely controls an operation of the local computer based upon the packetized control signals.

90. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, further comprising one or more input devices gathering a signal from a user of the at least one exercise apparatus, the one or more input devices being selected from a group consisting of audio and video.

91. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, further comprising at least one remote exercise apparatus connected to the at least one remote computer, and wherein packetized control signals are transmitted to the local system in response to a remote user controlling the at least one remote exercise apparatus.

92. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the packetized control signals are synchronized with at least one of an audio signal or a video signal.

93. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the communication link comprises a network connection.

94. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, wherein the exercise apparatus comprises one or more sensors for detecting data representative of the status of the exercise apparatus is configured to transmit the data to the remote system via the communication link.

95. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, further comprising a safety mechanism in communication with the at least one exercise apparatus, the safety mechanism manipulating the at least one exercise apparatus in the event that a packetized control signal is interrupted.

96. An exercise system as recited in claim 85, further comprising a control module in communication with the local system, the control module being configured to automatically disconnect data communication between the local system and the remote system in response to cessation of exercise by a user of the at least one exercise apparatus.

Description:

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

This invention relates to exercise equipment and, more specifically, to systems and methods for providing improved exercise devices in combination with other users and/or a live or stored trainer via a communications network.

2. The Relevant Technology

In an attempt to improve their health and physical conditioning, consumers are purchasing home exercise devices in record quantities. One common challenge with home exercise equipment is motivating the purchaser to use the device on a consistent and ongoing basis, while providing access to experienced trainers and individually developed exercise programs from the comfort of a user's own home. In addition, many exercise devices involve repetitive actions, which can quickly become tedious to a person exercising alone.

Health clubs, on the other hand, have organized various exercise classes and routines involving a group setting. In the proper setting, a group approach to exercise creates a synergy, whereby individual members of the class derive encouragement and motivation from other members of the group.

Furthermore, while individuals exercise at a health club they are taught the correct techniques for exercising, thereby reducing the possibility of being injured during an exercise program. In addition, group settings promote a healthy sense of competition among group members. Initially, such group fitness and exercise classes typically involved aerobics, traditionally performed without the use of any ancillary exercise equipment or devices. In recent years, however, the group work out approach has been extended to classes that utilize various exercise devices. Take, for example, the recent rise in popularity of “Spinning Classes,” in which each participant operates his or her own stationery exercise cycle in a group setting, with a coach or instructor leading the group through a prescribed program or routine. Similarly, with recent advances in the design of treadmills, it is possible to have “Treadmill Classes” wherein an instructor not only leads the group, but the instructor is also able to control the operation of the treadmills of all of the class participants from a single control panel.

One of the primary disadvantages with group training, however, is that it is typically available only at health clubs and, therefore, is not as convenient as exercising in the privacy and comfort of one's own home. It would, therefore, be a definite advancement in the art of home exercise equipment to provide the desirable benefits of group exercise in a home setting. Some efforts have been made in the prior art to introduce a level of “interactivity” into exercise machines. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,489,249 discloses a video exercise control system in which a videocassette recorder (VCR) or similar device is coupled, via a hard wired connection, to an exercise machine, such as a treadmill. As an individual exercises on the treadmill, the VCR in synchronization with prerecorded audio/video presentations controls the speed and incline of the treadmill. U.S. Pat. No. 5,645,509, entitled “Remote Exercise Control System” that is incorporated herein by reference, discloses a remote exercise control system in which an exercise machine, such as a treadmill, may remotely communicate via a communications module with an evaluation module located at a remote location. Signals indicative of the operating parameters of the treadmill are transmitted from the treadmill to the evaluation module, and control signals are transmitted from the remote evaluation module for controlling the operating parameters of the treadmill. U.S. Pat. No. 5,888,172 is representative of another, in which an exercise device is coupled, via hard wired connection, to a video game device, such that the operating parameters of the exercise device are used as inputs to the video game controller, which then produces a video display based on the inputs received. However, these approaches nevertheless fail to provide many desirable benefits of group exercise.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an object of the present invention is to improve home exercise equipment by providing home exercise devices that are capable of simulating a group or class workout environment and synchronizing operation of the exercises devices with exercise programming.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an exercise device that is capable of being controlled by packetized signals received from a trainer.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an exercise device that is capable of enabling a user to communicate with a distantly located trainer.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide an exercise device that communicates with a communication system that enables real-time communication with a trainer or alternatively access to one or more stored exercise programs.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise system that enables one or more users to receive real-time signals from one or more trainers via a network.

Still yet another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise system that enables a third party to control one or more user exercise devices and one or more trainer exercise devices in real-time.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an exercise system that enables a user to access various exercise equipment and information from a variety of locations.

Still a further object of the present invention is to provide a system where one device is capable of controlling one or more operating parameters of one or more other devices.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a system where the various modules of the system may be incorporated within a variety of devices.

Another object of the invention is to provide exercise devices that incorporate modules for receiving and decoding control signals embedded in multimedia (i.e., audio and/or video) programming for controlling various operating parameters of the exercise device in synchronization with the multimedia programming.

It is another object of the invention to provide exercise devices that are responsive to control signals that are encoded in programming external to the exercise device and containing audio and/or video and that can be transmitted and received by the exercise device.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide enhanced exercise devices, the operation of which can be controlled using interchangeable, multimedia programming containing control signals that is received via the Internet.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide an improved exercise machine that facilitates live, interactive communications between a treadmill user at home and a trainer or coach in a remote location, and which enables the trainer or coach to control the operating parameters of the user's treadmill on a live, real time basis.

The present invention is directed to devices, systems, methods, programs, computer products, computer readable media, and modules for controlling the operating parameters of one or more devices by one or more distantly located, or optionally closely located, devices through the use of packetized data technology. The present invention is particularly well suited to devices that utilize one or more motors and/or other electrically driven actuators that control one or more operating parameters of a device, such as an exercise device.

In one embodiment, the exercise device is configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication and includes an exercise mechanism having a movable element for movement in performance of exercise by a user. One example of such an exercise device is a treadmill, although a variety of different exercise devices may be employed. By employing real-time communication and interaction with a trainer, an exerciser can interact with the trainer, thereby achieving many of the benefits of a group exercise session in a home environment.

The exercise device of the present invention may have a variety of different forms. However, in one exemplary embodiment, an exercise device configured to enable a user to interact with a trainer in real-time communication, comprises: (i) an exercise mechanism comprising a movable element; (ii) one or more user interface devices, that communicates with the exercise mechanism and gathers a first real time signal from the user; (iii) a communicating mechanism that communicates with the interface device and enables real-time transmission of the first signal to the trainer and receives a packetized second real-time signal. The second real time signal may comprise a variety of signals, such as control signal and/or audio and visual signals. A processor, responsive to a control signal is configured to control the operating parameters of the exercise mechanism in real-time.

Thus, according the present invention, it is possible for a user to exercise on a device, such as a treadmill, while a trainer receives data regarding the operating parameters of the treadmill (and optionally of the user of the treadmill, e.g., heart rate), such as speed, inclination, etc. Upon receiving this data, the trainer can modify the operating parameters of the user's treadmill such that the user achieves an exercise program designed by the trainer. The trainer can also communicate in real time with the user without interrupting any control signals that control the treadmill or other exercise device. The user can also communicate with the trainer without affecting any of these controls during such communication.

A variety of different options are available for achieving the desired real time communication. According to one such option, a user can receive a broadcast from a live trainer (human being) or a stored trainer (e.g., a website, video, disk, or dynamic or interactive software program) upon activating the exercise device. As another option, the user can receive programming in response to a signal sent by the user. As yet another option, the trainer can analyze information about the exercise device (e.g., speed) and/or user (e.g., heart rate) and control the operating parameters of the exercise device and/or provide recommendations to the user through audio or video communication.

Thus, the present invention relates to an exercise device capable of achieving real time communication with either: (i) a live or (ii) stored trainer. The present invention also relates to an exercise system comprising: (i) one or more user devices, such as an exercise device; (ii) one or more trainer devices, such as another similar exercise device connected to each other in a master/slave relationship. Optionally, in addition to the master and slave devices, a third party can control the master and/or slave. Examples of such third parties include an individual located at a master control console that controls the master and/or slave, such as in the setting of a spinning class.

The trainer and user may be linked in direct communication (e.g., master/slave) or indirect communication, such as by linking both the trainer and the user to a communication system that controls the operating parameters of an exercise device used by the user and/or trainer. For example, if both the trainer and the user devices are connected to a communication system, such as a website, the website may control the user device and/or the trainer device. Alternatively, the communication system may track changes of the operating parameters of the trainer device and modify the operating parameters of the user device based upon the changing parameters of the trainer device.

Optionally, a stored trainer (e.g., a website) controls a user device without requiring the services of a live trainer. The present invention also enables first and second users to compete against each other by connecting their corresponding exercise devices to a communication system, such as a website.

The present invention also relates to programming, computer products and computer readable medium including instructions designed to facilitate the above-described systems, inventions and exercises and other systems, devices, and exercises. As will be discussed in greater detail, the present invention is not limited to any particular device, although treadmills and other exercises are employed as examples to illustrate the operation and function of the present invention.

These advantages in addition to other objects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. The objects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In order that the manner in which the above recited and other advantages and features of the invention are obtained, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Understanding that these drawing depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 is an exercise system according to the teaching of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective illustration of a reorienting treadmill with the tread base positioned in a first position for a user to perform exercises to be used in the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective illustration of a reorienting treadmill of FIG. 2 with the tread base positioned in a second or storage position;

FIG. 4 is a partial plan view of portions of the reorienting treadmill illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3 with the treadmill oriented in the second or storage position and with the bottom cover removed, revealing some of the internal components of the treadmill;

FIG. 5 is a partial exploded perspective view of the incline mechanism incorporated into the treadmill illustrated in FIGS. 2 through 4;

FIG. 6 is a perspective illustration of a control panel of the reorienting treadmill of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary computer and associated system that provides a suitable operating environment for the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of a communication system of the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of the treadmill and computer with associated translator box of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of the exercise system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a more detailed functional block diagram of the exercise system of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of the illustrative modules of the communication module;

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram illustrative of process of gathering information through the login/registration module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a functional block diagram of illustrative modules of the audio program module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 15 a flow diagram illustrative of the process of selecting an audio program for a particular exercise device selected from those illustrated in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 a functional block diagram of the illustrative modules and functions of the personal training module of FIG. 12;

FIGS. 17A-D is flow diagrams representative of the processes a user performs using the competition module of FIG. 12;

FIG. 18 is a flow diagram representing the process of performing diagnostic on the treadmill of FIG. 2 from a distant location;

FIG. 19 is a flow diagram representing the actions performed by the user and communication module to create audio and video programs in accordance with the teaching of the present invention;

FIG. 20 is a functional block diagram of a master-slave system according to the teaching of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is directed to devices that include one or more motors or other electrically driven actuators used to control one or more operating parameters of the device. While the invention will be described in the context of a motorized treadmill, it should be understood that the invention is not limited to any particular type of exercise device. To the contrary, the present invention can be readily adapted to any motorized device or any other device that utilizes motors, solenoids, or any other electrically driven actuators to control any operating parameter of the device, such as speed, resistance, incline, time, temperature, or other similar operating parameters. The term “device” or “devices” shall refer broadly to any type of apparatus that includes one or more stepper motors, solenoids, or other electrically driven actuators or controllers. Additionally, the term “exercise devices” shall refer broadly to any type of device that takes the form of an exercise machine, including, but not limited to, treadmills, exercise cycles, Nordic style ski exercise devices, rowers, steppers, hikers, climbers, and elliptical or striding exercise devices.

Depicted in FIG. 1 is a representation of one illustrative system, designated by reference numeral 10 , that may incorporate the novel features of the present invention, including various novel devices, hardware and software modules, and the like that may be remotely accessed and controlled in a real-time manner. As shown, one or more exercise mechanisms, such as a treadmill 12 a - 12 n is in communication with one or more trainers at treadmill 20 a - 20 n via a translator device 13 and a personal computer 14 . The translator device 13 and personal computer 14 communicate with a network 16 that is a communication network that enables various hardware and software modules and devices to communicate one with another. Network 16 , therefore, may be a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), wireless network, packetized network, real-time network, and the like. Network 16 facilitates communication of treadmill 12 with a live trainer on treadmill 20 and/or communication system 18 (e.g. a website). Communication system 18 assists communication between a user on treadmill 12 and either a live trainer on treadmill 20 , or some other third party 21 , as will be described in more detail hereinafter. Optionally, communication system 18 acts as a stored trainer or connects to a stored trainer.

The following discussion will be directed to only a single treadmill 12 and a single treadmill 20 , however, it may be appreciated that a similar discussion may be had for multiple treadmills 12 a - 12 n , 20 a - 20 n . In addition, although only one of each element of system 10 is depicted, it may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that system 10 may have a mixture of both single and multiple elements, for example, at least one treadmill 12 , 20 , translator device 13 , personal computer 14 , network 16 , and communication system 18 . Alternatively, one or more of the elements of system 10 may be eliminated or the functionality thereof incorporated within the structure and function of one or more of the other elements of system 10 .

Similarly, although each of the elements of system 10 are shown separated one from another, it may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the hardware and/or software elements of the present invention may be incorporated within two or more elements. For example, translator device 13 and personal computer 14 may be incorporated within treadmill 12 . Similarly, the hardware and/or software elements of the communication system 18 may be incorporated within treadmill 20 .

As defined herein, the term “trainer” or “third party” 21 may include: (i) a live human being; or (ii) a stored trainer, such as a website, computer, optical media (e.g., compact disk or digital video disk), visual media, or magnetic media (e.g., videotape, readable disk), an electronic monitoring system, dynamic computer readable instructions, interactive and/or dynamic software programs, computer readable instructions, and other media and hardware and/or software modules and components, whether or not the trainer is located at treadmill 20 or at some other location. In one embodiment, the third party is another trainer.

Generally, system 10 enables exercise programming with control signals to be transmitted from a trainer at treadmill 20 , or alternatively from communication system 18 , to a user at treadmill 12 . As disclosed in U.S. patent Ser. No. 09/349,608 entitled “Systems and Methods for Providing an Improved Exercise Device with Motivational Programming,” which is incorporated herein by reference, the programming may include motivational content and/or one or more control signals that may be used to control the operating parameters of treadmill 12 in real-time in an uninterrupted manner. The control signals may be synchronized with the motivational content and designed to control one or more operating parameters of the exercise device, such as the speed, incline, difficulty of exercise program, time, distance, and the like of an exercise program performed on treadmill 12 .

As used herein, the term “motivational content” is used to broadly refer to any audio material, including dialog, narration, sound effects, and/or music, either alone or in combination with video material. In one embodiment of the present invention, the motivational content is stored in communication system 18 and includes an audio/video presentation of a personal trainer and others engaged in a series of exercises of varying difficulty. In another embodiment of the present invention, the motivational content is a live-on-live, real-time exercise program presented by one or more personal trainers that is either specific to one particular user or alternatively broadcast or optionally “webcast” to any user that it may access communication system 18 . In still yet another embodiment, the programming includes an exercise profile of the intensity of various exercise criteria, such as but limited to, speed, incline, or resistance of the exercise device, that is displayed continually or periodically to the user during the performance of the programming. In still yet another embodiment of the present invention, the user controls the period of when the exercise profile appears. One skilled in the art may appreciate that various other configurations of programming are applicable.

Generally, the second real-time signal may include both the motivational content and the control signals, whether or not such control signals are synchronized with the motivational content. Alternatively, the second real-time signal may include only the motivational content, other signals representative of measurable parameters of the exercise device (e.g. speed, inclination, resistance, etc) and/or a user of the exercise device (e.g. heart rate, blood pressure, etc), and the like. For example, treadmill 12 may transmit one or more signals to communication system 18 . The signal may include parameters such as the status of the exercise device, e.g., active status (i.e., on), deactivated status (i.e., off), standby status (i.e., waiting), and the like, and/or parameters such as speed, inclination, resistance. Additionally, the signal may include parameters regarding the user, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and the like. Alternatively, treadmill 12 may receive programming “broadcast” by communication system 18 and/or a trainer at treadmill 20 , such that any treadmill with the capabilities to receive the programming may access such, without the need to transmit one or more signals.

As mentioned above, the control signals control the operating parameters of treadmill 12 , such as speed, inclination, resistance, and the like. Such control may be achieved by a trainer at treadmill 20 , a combination of a trainer at treadmill 20 and communication system 18 , or a third party 21 interacting with treadmill 20 and/or communication system 18 . Generally, the present invention allows control of a device, such as an exercise device, without the need to interrupt the other portions of the programming, such as the real-time audio and/or video.

FIGS. 2 through 5 generally depict a typical motorized, reorienting treadmill 12 . Although the discussion herein will be directed to treadmill 12 , it may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that treadmill 20 may include all or a portion of the elements, modules, and means discussed herein

Treadmill 12 , in one embodiment, includes a control panel 22 supported on a generally upright support structure 24 and a tread base 26 . Upright support structure 24 , in this illustrative embodiment, includes two side members 28 , 30 coupled together by way of one or more cross members 32 . Side members 28 , 30 and cross members 32 may have various configurations and may be fabricated from various materials so long as they are capable of supporting control panel 22 and tread base 26 . For example, the elements of upright support structure 24 may be fabricated from, but not limited to metals, plastics, composites, combinations thereof, and the like. Additionally, one skilled in the art may appreciate that various other exercise devices may have different upright support structures, side members, and cross members, or be devoid of one or more of such structures and members.

The tread base 26 typically includes a pair of side rails 34 , 36 each having a front portion proximal to and a rear portion distal from upright support structure 24 when tread base 26 is in a downward exercisable position. As shown in FIG. 4, a front pulley 38 and a rear pulley 40 are disposed between and supported by side rails 34 , 36 , while a continuous belt 42 extends between and around front and rear pulleys 38 and 40 , respectively. Pulleys 38 , 40 and belt 42 may have various configurations and be fabricated from various materials, as known by one skilled in the art and commonly known within the exercise industry.

A deck 44 , commonly fabricated from wood, typically supports the upper run of belt 42 and supports an exercising individual resting upon belt 42 . Although deck 44 is preferably of a cellulose material such as wood, various other types of material may be used so long as deck 44 is capable of supporting belt 42 and a user exercising thereupon.

As best seen in FIG. 4, in one embodiment, front pulley 38 is mechanically coupled to an electric tread drive motor 46 by way of pulleys 48 and 50 and a drive belt 52 . In this illustrative embodiment, motor 46 further incorporates an inertial flywheel 54 that controls fluctuations in the rotational motion of a shaft of motor 46 during operation of treadmill 12 . Motor 46 is optionally electrically coupled to a treadmill controller 56 that controls the operation of motor 46 , and thus the speed of belt 42 , in response to various user inputs or other control signals. As shown, treadmill controller 56 is incorporated within tread base 26 ; however, it may be appreciated by one skilled in the art that treadmill controller 56 may be incorporated within control panel 22 or alternatively within personal computer 14 .

In addition to the ability to control and vary the speed of belt 42 , treadmill 12 also permits the degree of incline of tread base 26 relative to the floor, or other surface upon which tread base 26 rests, to be varied. Typically, this is accomplished through the use of an incline drive motor 60 that rises or lowers one end of tread base 26 relative to the other end. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 2 through 5, tread base 26 includes a pair of rear feet 62 and 64 that are rotatably attached to the rear of portion of side rails 34 , 36 . As best seen in FIGS. 4 and 5, feet 62 and 64 are mechanically coupled through a shaft 66 to incline drive motor 60 , which causes feet 62 and 64 to pivot about their points of pivotal attachment to side rails 34 , 36 , thereby selectively raising or lowering the rear end of tread base 26 relative to the front end thereof. Motor 60 is also optionally electrically coupled to, and controlled by the treadmill controller 56 .

As shown in FIG. 2, treadmill 12 (and optionally treadmill 20 ) includes control panel 22 attached to side members 28 , 30 of upright support structure 24 . Control panel 22 , in one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 6, includes one or more interface devices. Such interface devices may be either input devices or output devices. Input devices enable a user to input and vary the operating parameters of treadmill 12 . As examples of such input devices, control panel 22 includes many typical controllers for use on an exercise device, such as a treadmill. A number of illustrative input devices include but are not limited to speed controls 68 , incline controls 70 , time controls 72 , distance controls 74 , a start button 76 , a stop or pause button 78 , and heart rate controls 80 . In addition to these input devices, such as one or more controllers, control panel 22 further optionally includes an iFit.com button 82 , a manual override button 84 , and a scaling control 86 , each of which are also examples of input devices. It may be appreciated that each of the above-recited controllers or buttons may be embodied in a variety of different manners to perform their commonly utilized function. In addition, each controller, button, and the like may take the form of one or more switches, rheostats, potentiometers, touch sensitive controls, voice activated controllers, and the like. The input devices described herein are examples of structures capable of performing the function of interface means for gathering a first signal (such as a real time signal) from the user. One skilled in the art may identify various other configurations of interface means that are capable of performing the desired function. Additionally, it may be appreciated that treadmill 20 may also include such interface means.

As shown in FIG. 6, iFit.com button 82 , in one embodiment, acts as both a selector and an indicator of connectivity of treadmill 12 to communication system 18 , and optionally treadmill 20 , whether such connectivity is via translator device 13 , computer 14 , or directly from treadmill 12 . The iFit.com button 82 optionally includes an indicator light (not shown) that demonstrates when a connection has been established between treadmill 12 and communication system 18 , such as when iFit.com button 82 is depressed. Alternatively, a light emitting diode (LED) positioned in close proximity to iFit.com button 82 may be activated when iFit.com button 82 is activated.

The connection achieved by activating iFit.com button 82 may be via a variety of communication line connections. For example, as shown, control panel 22 includes a wireless port 105 that enables treadmill 12 to wirelessly communicate with network 16 (FIG. 1 ), either directly or via computer 14 and/or translator device 13 . Alternatively, wireless port 105 may be located on tread base 26 . Various other types of port or interface may be included within treadmill 12 to enable communication via one or more communication line connections. For example, treadmill 12 may include one or more ports and interfaces to enable communication line connection through existing broadcast technology, including television broadcast over the airwaves, cable or cable modems, satellite, telephone lines, whether analog or digitally based, the internet, DSL, G-Lite, wireless technology, infra-red (IR) technology, other high-speed data connections, or any other suitable transmission technology or medium. Optionally, a communication port on a user treadmill may enable communication directly with another treadmill (such as in a master/slave scenario), whether or not such communication utilizes a network.

In one embodiment, by activating iFit.com button 82 , a user of treadmill 12 , or other exercise device, connects to communication system 18 , such as a website. Such connection may be via an independently located computer, such as computer 14 , through translator device 13 or directly through a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) by way of the described communication line connections for example, or other connections known to one skilled in the art.

More specifically, by activating the iFit.com button 82 a signal is transmitted to communication system 18 to create a connection therebetween. In this manner, treadmill 12 may receive signals representative of exercise programming from communication system 18 . Additionally, the connection with communication system 18 enables the user to obtain the services of a stored trainer or a personal trainer to perform programming, ask questions, download or access programming materials, surf the web, gather and send electronic mail messages (“e-mail”), listen to audio programming, view video programming, review and update user information and statistics, load user statistics, purchase exercise programming, equipment, and materials, update exercise device software and operating parameters, research exercise materials, and the like.

Furthermore, activation of the connection with communication system 18 enables treadmill 12 , or other exercise device, to have the potential of being controlled during an exercise program by a third party, whether that third party is another personal trainer using another treadmill 20 , a stored communication system 18 , or some other individual, hardware, or software modules or components. For example, a third party individual or a stored third party trainer may operate a console controlling the operation of one or more exercise devices in a group class setting, including devices operated by a live or stored trainer and by trainee users. This may be useful in a spinning class or other class in which a trainer trains trainee users. In one embodiment, as the third party controls the operation of the exercise devices, the trainer can communicate motivational messages to the trainee users.

Similarly, activation of the connection with network 16 and/or communication system 18 enables one or more users to interact one with another, and optionally compete one against another as shall be described in detail hereinafter. For example, a first user on treadmill 12 a may receive information regarding the workout performed by a second user on treadmill 12 n via network 16 and/or communication system 18 , then compete against the second user and vice versa. This competition may be live on live or time adjusted, e.g., a workout recorded previously by the second user which the first user competes against. Greater information about communication system 18 , with its associated modules and components will be discussed in detail hereinafter.

As mentioned above, control panel 22 may include manual override button 84 . Manual override button 84 enables a user to override an action initiated by (i) a live trainer or (ii) a stored trainer, such as communication system 18 , stored programming that is located within the memory of computer 14 , or alternatively in memory stored in treadmill 12 . For example, if the exercise program accessed through communication system 18 is too difficult for the user, the user may activate manual override button 84 thereby interrupting the program delivered to treadmill 12 by communication system 18 . Furthermore, in the event that the exercise program is too easy, the user may increase the difficulty level of the exercise device. Consequently, manual override button 84 provides the user with a safety switch during operation of treadmill 12 . In an alternate configuration of treadmill 12 , the functionality of manual override button 84 is activated upon manual activation of one of the other input devices, such as but not limited to, incline controls 74 , speed controls 76 , stop/pause button 78 , and the like.

Similar to the operation of manual override button 84 , scaling control 86 enables a user to vary the operating parameters of treadmill 12 during an exercise program initiated externally to treadmill 12 . A user may activate scaling control 86 and vary the intensity of an exercise program. The scaling control 86 , therefore, enables a user to select a value representative of the proportional change to be made to the control signal received by the communicating mechanism of treadmill 12 from communication system 18 . For example, if an exercise program requires a maximum speed of 6 miles per hour (mph) with a maximum incline of 15 degrees for a period of 30 minutes, an individual may activate scaling control 86 to require only 66% intensity of the exercise program; stated otherwise, reduce the intensity by one third. Therefore, the exercise program is varied to a maximum speed of 4 mph, with a maximum incline of 10 degrees, for a period of 20 minutes. Optionally, scaling control 86 may enable the user to set maximum values for each operating parameter of treadmill 12 . In another configuration, scaling control 86 may enable the user to scale only one operating parameter of treadmill 12 while leaving other parameters unchanged. Hence, the user may vary the exercise program to their particular abilities, while obtaining the beneficial effects of exercising.

As another example of an input device of the present invention, control panel 22 may include a diagnostic control 88 . Upon activation of diagnostic control 88 , whether be depressing a button or by some other manner known to one skilled in the art, treadmill 12 communicates with communication system 18 to check the operating status of the exercise device. Communication system 18 , thereby sends signals to the internal hardware and software modules of treadmill 12 to verify that the modules are operating within the desired specifications or to determine whether treadmill 12 may include software for which an update is available. In one embodiment, in the event that one or more of the hardware and/or software modules are damages or not performing as required, communication system 18 may download one or more software updates from communication system 18 if possible. Alternatively, communication system 18 may inform the user that an error has occurred and advise that the user obtain maintenance of the hardware components of treadmill 12 .

As additional examples of input devices, according to another aspect of the present invention, control panel 22 may include an audio input device 90 and a video input device 92 . Audio and video input devices 90 , 92 enable a user to perform communication, such as real time communication, with other users of exercise devices, via communication system 18 (FIG. 1 ). The audio and video input devices 90 , 92 also enable the user to hear and/or watch (i) a live trainer or (ii) a stored trainer, such as recorded programs, educational programming, entertainment programming, and the like. The diagnostic control 88 , audio input device 90 and video input device 92 , therefore, are structures capable of performing the function of interface means, communicating with the exercise mechanism, for gathering a first signal from the user. Various other configurations of such interface means are known to one skilled in the art in view of the teachings contained herein.

In one embodiment, audio input device 90 may take the form of a microphone, while video input device 92 may take the form of a video camera. Audio input device 90 and video input device 92 may alternatively take various other configurations as known by one skilled in the art. For example, audio input device 90 may be a microphone detachable connected to control panel 22 or another part of treadmill 12 . In another configuration, audio input device 90 may be located distant from treadmill 12 , while being capable of gathering the audio inputs from the user. In still another configuration, audio input device 90 may be eliminated from treadmill 12 , while treadmill 12 includes an audio jack, such as an RCA-type audio jack, RJ-type jacks, digital audio jack, and the like. In still another configuration, audio input device 90 may be a radio frequency (RF), infra red (IR), or wireless type microphone. Similarly, video input device 92 may have the configuration of a digital video camera integrally formed within control panel 22 . Alternatively, video input device 92 may be detachably connected to control panel 22 or another part of treadmill 12 , such as wireless digital cameras. Still in another configuration, video input device 92 may be located distant from treadmill 12 , while being capable of gathering the requisite video signals to be transmitted to communication system 18 (FIG. 1 ).

In addition to the above-described audio and video input devices 90 , 92 respectively, control panel 22 may include a variety of other input devices. For example, control panel 22 may include an integrally formed mouse 100 . Additionally, control panel 22 may include a keyboard jack 102 for an external keyboard 103 , a controller port 104 for receiving one of a variety of game controller, an integrally formed mouse 100 , a touch-sensitive video display, and various other ports, jacks, or the like to receive various other external components. Each input device is adapted to allow a user operating treadmill 12 to more fully operate one or more operating parameters of treadmill 12 . Furthermore, the input devices enable the user to access communication system 18 and/or obtain educational, entertainment, or other information via network 16 , whether such information is from communication system 18 or from one of a variety of other hardware and/or software modules that are accessible via network 16 . For example, the input devices may allow the user to surf the Internet to find educational materials or entertainment. These additional input devices are further examples of are structures capable of performing the function of interface means, communicating with the exercise mechanism, for gathering a first signal from the user.

Control panel 22 , in one embodiment includes one or more output devices that provide a visual and optionally an audio indication of the operational status of treadmill 12 to the user. As with the input devices, the output devices may have various configurations and perform numerous functions. Generally, the output devices described herein are each structures capable of performing the function of means for reproducing a signal. The output devices and hence the means for reproducing a signal may have various configurations as known to one skilled in the art in view of the teaching contained herein. In one embodiment, one video output device 94 may be a video display. Generally, video output device 94 presents the user of treadmill 12 with information and data transmitted from communication system 18 , whether such data is live transmission from treadmill 20 , or alternatively stored programming accessible by communication system 18 . Additionally, video output device 94 may optionally show information and data from: (1) various other sources selected by the user, third parties, or system 10 ; (2) statistical information representative of the operational parameters of treadmill 12 , such as the speed, incline, duration of user's workout, etc.; (3) electronic mail messages (e-mail), and the like. Video output device 94 , in one embodiment is a liquid crystal display (LCD) or cathode ray tube (CRT) display.

One skilled in the art may appreciate that various other devices may be used to perform the functions of video output device 94 . For example, video output device 94 maybe an electroluminescent display (ELD), a gas-plasma display, a thin film transistor (TFT) display, a virtual reality (VR) display, and the like. In another embodiment of the present invention, control panel 22 includes multiple video output devices 94 . In still another embodiment, video output device 94 is adapted to permit split screen or layered images that are associated with picture-in-picture viewing of various images and information. For example, video output device 94 may allow a user to watch various types of entertainment and/or surf the Internet, while receiving images representative of the exercise profile that they are following whether continuously, periodically, upon activation of a user control, or the like.

As shown in FIG. 6, in one embodiment of the present invention, control panel 22 includes an audio output device 96 , such as a speaker. Audio output device 96 performs a similar function to that of video output device 94 , in that audio output device 96 provides the user with audible signals representative of the operational parameters of treadmill 12 . Additionally, audio output device 96 may deliver audio, visual, or control signals to the user from communication system 18 and treadmill 20 . Such signals may be audible and/or inaudible signals transmitted from the trainer on treadmill 20 . Various speakers are applicable and may operate as audio output device 96 , for example, hardwired and wireless speakers, such as computer speakers, audio system speakers, and the like. Control panel 22 may optionally include one or more amplifiers in cooperation with audio output device 96 . Furthermore, audio output device 96 may be circumvented through user of one of a variety of audio jacks that enable a user to listen to the audio output through headphones or similar audio transmitting device.

In addition to the output devices described above, the present invention may include various other output devices to provide information and data to the user of treadmill 12 . In one embodiment of treadmill 12 , control panel 22 includes one or more operating parameter displays. The one or more operating parameter displays give a visual display of some of the more important exercise device operating parameters, such as but not limited to, speed, incline, distance traveled, calories used, elevation climbed, wheel resistance, and the like. The one or more operating parameter displays may use a numerical display, a graphical display, combinations thereof, or such other displays known to one skilled in that art. For example, the operating parameter display may be incorporated within video output device 94 .

As shown in FIG. 1, communicating with treadmill 12 via personal computer 14 is communication system 18 and treadmill 20 . Those skilled in the art will appreciate that computer 14 may take various configurations, including personal computers, hand-held devices, multi-processor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, telephones, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Additionally, computer 14 may be part of a distributed computer environment where tasks are performed by local and remote processing devices that are linked (either by hardwired links, wireless links, or by a combination of hardwired or wireless links) through a communications network, such as network 16 . Furthermore, as suggested earlier, treadmill 12 may optionally incorporate the functionality of personal computer 14 therein or inclu

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5626539	Treadmill apparatus with dual spring-loaded treads	May, 1997	Piaget et al.
5645509	Remote exercise control system	July, 1997	Brewer et al.
5655997	Fitness feedback system for weight stack machines	August, 1997	Greenberg et al.	482/5
5663951	Delayed transmission of data packets over networks	September, 1997	Danneels et al.	370/230
5690582	Interactive exercise apparatus	November, 1997	Ulrich et al.	482/4
5695400	Method of managing multi-player game playing over a network	December, 1997	Fennell, Jr. et al.	463/42
5697834	Remote repair appliance	December, 1997	Heumann et al.
5702323	Electronic exercise enhancer	December, 1997	Poulton
5720771	Method and apparatus for monitoring physiological data from an implantable medical device	February, 1998	Snell
5722418	Method for mediating social and behavioral processes in medicine and business through an interactive telecommunications guidance system	March, 1998	Bro
5738612	Exercise apparatus having exercise-load changing function	April, 1998	Tsuda
5743833	Cabinet treadmill with door	April, 1998	Watterson et al.
5749372	Method for monitoring activity and providing feedback	May, 1998	Allen et al.
5752897	Exercise treadmill	May, 1998	Skowronski et al.
5754765	Automatic transport detection by attempting to establish communication session using list of possible transports and corresponding media dependent modules	May, 1998	Danneels et al.	709/222
5759199	System and method for ambulatory monitoring and programming of an implantable medical device	June, 1998	Snell et al.
5771354	Internet online backup system provides remote storage for customers using IDs and passwords which were interactively established when signing up for backup services	June, 1998	Crawford	709/229
5779596	Remote controller mechanism for use with a videocassette recorder or the like	July, 1998	Weber
5785630	Interactive exercise apparatus	July, 1998	Bobick et al.	482/4
5810696	Exercise apparatus and associated method including rheological fluid brake	September, 1998	Webb
5836770	Multimedia product for use in physical fitness training and method of making	November, 1998	Powers
5838906	Distributed hypermedia method for automatically invoking external application providing interaction and display of embedded objects within a hypermedia document	November, 1998	Doyle et al.	715/501.1
5845230	Apparatus and method for the remote monitoring of machine condition	December, 1998	Lamberson
5854833	Processing using DEF records	December, 1998	Hogan et al.	379/114.14
5857939	Exercise device with audible electronic monitor	January, 1999	Kaufman
5865733	Wireless optical patient monitoring apparatus	February, 1999	Malinouskas et al.
5873369	System for monitoring health conditions of an individual and a method thereof	February, 1999	Laniado et al.
5880677	System for monitoring and controlling electrical consumption, including transceiver communicator control apparatus and alternating current control apparatus	March, 1999	Lestician
5888172	Physical exercise video system	March, 1999	Andrus et al.
5890995	Interactive exercise apparatus	April, 1999	Bobick et al.
5905442	Method and apparatus for controlling and determining the status of electrical devices from remote locations	May, 1999	Mosebrook et al.
5909544	Automated test harness	June, 1999	Anderson, II et al.	709/208
5911132	Method using central epidemiological database	June, 1999	Sloane
5911687	Wide area medical information system and method using thereof	June, 1999	Sato et al.
5916063	Portable memory-mediated system and method for providing customized training program for user of plural units of exercise apparatus	June, 1999	Alessandri
5917405	Control apparatus and methods for vehicles	June, 1999	Joao
5929748	Automated home control using existing electrical lines as a communications medium	July, 1999	Odinak
5931763	System for programming training on exercise apparatus or machines and related method	August, 1999	Alessandri
5956509	System and method for performing remote requests with an on-line service network	September, 1999	Kevner	719/330
5961561	Method and apparatus for remote maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair of a motorized wheelchair	October, 1999	Wakefield, II
5964701	Patient monitoring finger ring sensor	October, 1999	Asada et al.
5967975	Home health parameter monitoring system	October, 1999	Ridgeway
5995868	System for the prediction, rapid detection, warning, prevention, or control of changes in activity states in the brain of a subject	November, 1999	Dorfmeister et al.
5997476	Networked system for interactive communication and remote monitoring of individuals	December, 1999	Brown
6010451	Method and system for giving remote emergency medical counsel to choking patients	January, 2000	Clawson
6013007	Athlete's GPS-based performance monitor	January, 2000	Root et al.
6014432	Home health care system	January, 2000	Modney
6033344	Fitness apparatus with heart rate control system and method of operation	March, 2000	Trulaske et al.
6042519	Exercise apparatus	March, 2000	Shea	482/57
6050822	Electromagnetic locomotion platform for translation and total immersion of humans into virtual environments	April, 2000	Faughn
6050924	Exercise system	April, 2000	Shea
6053737	Intelligent flight tutoring system	April, 2000	Babbitt et al.
6053844	Interactive programmable fitness interface system	April, 2000	Clem
6059692	Apparatus for remote interactive exercise and health equipment	May, 2000	Hickman
6066075	Direct feedback controller for user interaction	May, 2000	Poulton	482/8
6106297	Distributed interactive simulation exercise manager system and method	August, 2000	Pollak et al.
6132337	Exercise monitoring system	October, 2000	Krupka et al.
6152856	Real time simulation using position sensing	November, 2000	Studor et al.
6171218	Exercise apparatus	January, 2001	Shea	482/57
6193631	Force script implementation over a wide area network	February, 2001	Hickman
6211451	Music lesson system with local training terminal and remote supervisory station	April, 2001	Tohgi et al.
6231481	Physical activity measuring method and apparatus	May, 2001	Brock
6231482	System for climbing training	May, 2001	Thompson
6251048	Electronic exercise monitor	June, 2001	Kaufman
6312363	Systems and methods for providing an improved exercise device with motivational programming	November, 2001	Watterson et al.
6358187	Apparatus for monitoring and displaying exertion data	March, 2002	Smith
6450922	Electronic exercise system	September, 2002	Henderson et al.	482/8
6458060	Systems and methods for interaction with exercise device	October, 2002	Watterson et al.	482/54
6464618	Exercise system	October, 2002	Shea
6475115	Computer exercise system	November, 2002	Candito et al.
6497638	Exercise system	December, 2002	Shea
6582342	Audible electronic exercise monitor	June, 2003	Kaufman
6601016	Monitoring fitness activity across diverse exercise machines utilizing a universally accessible server system	July, 2003	Brown et al.	702/182
6616578	Computerized connection system between exercise stations for exchanging communications of related users	September, 2003	Alessandri	482/8
6645124	Interactive programmable fitness interface system	November, 2003	Clem	482/4
6736759	Exercise monitoring system and methods	May, 2004	Stubbs et al.	482/8
6749537	Method and apparatus for remote interactive exercise and health equipment	June, 2004	Hickman	482/8