Exercise Device With Wireless Controll

Abstract

Wireless control commands adjust one or more operating parameters of an exercise device while a user is exercising. A control ring or a handle of the exercise device includes user input mechanisms and a wireless transmitter. The user input mechanisms may be selectively activated by the exerciser. Upon activation of the user input mechanisms, the wireless transmitter wirelessly communicates a control command to a resistance mechanism in order to adjust the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to systems, methods, and devices for exercise. More particularly, the disclosure relates to wireless communication of exercise parameters that can be communicated without interrupting a user's physical exercise.

BACKGROUND

Exercise devices are being used at an ever increasing rate. Individuals use exercise devices to improve their health and fitness level. Many exercise devices are used when an individual's schedule or inclement weather prohibits the individual from exercising outdoors. Additionally, some exercise devices, such as treadmills, are used to train for competitions. For instance, distance runners often use treadmills to train for upcoming races. Such training allows the individual to conveniently monitor various aspects of their performance (e.g., pace, cadence, speed, distance, time, etc.) during their training session since many treadmills track and display such information. Additionally, treadmills with adjustably inclining treadbases can also simulate the terrain the user will experience during the upcoming race. As a result, individuals do not have to train at the actual location of an upcoming race to be familiar with the race course.

While exercise machines can be useful in exercising and training for a race or building muscle, some individuals find it difficult to manipulate an exercise machine's controls, and thereby adjust the operating parameters of the exercise machine, while exercising. The difficulty in manipulating the controls often increases as individuals increase the speed or resistance of their workout. Not only can it become more difficult to manipulate the exercise machine's controls as effort levels increase, but reaching to manipulate the machine's controls can also have a negative impact on the individual's exercise performance. For instance, it may be difficult for an individual to maintain his/her pace and/or form when reaching to manipulate a treadmill's controls. Furthermore, it may be necessary for an individual to interrupt the performance of the exercise, and even get off of the exercise device, in order to manipulate the exercise device's controls in order to adjust the operating parameters of the exercise device.

Various exercise devices have been developed that allow for the adjustment of an exercise device's operating parameters without requiring an individual to manipulate controls on a console of the exercise device. For instance, U.S. Pat. No. 5,910,070 discloses a hand-held controller for remotely controlling an exercise device such as a treadmill. The hand-held controller includes buttons and a transceiver that communicates with the treadmill to adjust the operating parameters of the treadmill. Similarly, U.S. Patent Publication No. 2007/0004562 discloses a remote control for wirelessly communicating with a treadmill to control the treadmill. Other exercise devices that allow for the adjustment of operating parameters without manipulation of console controls are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,643,418, U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,337, U.S. Pat. No. 5,314,391, U.S. Pat. No. 5,368,532, U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,924, and U.S. Pat. No. 6,740,009.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one example embodiment of the disclosure, an exercise system includes a frame, a resistance mechanism, and a movable element. The resistance mechanism is associated with the frame and provides a selectively adjustable level of resistance to selectively adjust a difficulty of performing an exercise. The movable element is operatively associated with the resistance mechanism and is movable to perform an exercise. The movable element includes a handle graspable by a user during the performance of an exercise. Additionally, the movable element can include one or more user input mechanisms associated with the handle and that may be selectively activated. The movable element also includes a transmitter associated with the one or more user input mechanisms. The transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the level of resistance of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises a paddle.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the paddle is selectively connectable to the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises a retractable cable.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism biases the retractable cable towards a retracted position.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise system comprises a strength training machine.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the strength training machine comprises a first arm and a second arm that are selectively movable between a plurality of positions.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises the handle and a cable.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism comprises a cable and pulley system.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the transmitter comprises a wireless transmitter.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise system also includes a wireless receiver associated with the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance increase button, the transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance decrease button, the transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the transmitter may be selectively paired with only one resistance mechanism at any given time.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the transmitter communicates with the resistance mechanism only when the handle is within a predetermined range of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise system includes a processor associated with the one or more user input mechanisms and the transmitter.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the processor generates the control command upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a paddling exercise system includes a body support.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a paddling exercise system includes a support structure connected to the body support.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the support structure includes an extension member.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a paddling exercise system includes a resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism is connected to the extension member.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism includes a retractable cable and connector connected to an end of the retractable cable.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism is elevated relative to the body support.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a resistance level provided by the resistance mechanism is selectively adjustable to change a difficulty in extending the retractable cable from the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a paddling exercise system includes a paddle that is selectively connectable to the connector of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the paddle includes one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the one or more user input mechanisms may be selectively activated.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a wireless transmitter is associated with the one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance increase button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance decrease button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the paddling exercise system includes a processor associated with the one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the processor generates the control commands in response to activation of the one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a strength training exercise device includes a frame.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a strength training exercise device includes a resistance mechanism connected to the frame.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism provides a selectively adjustable level of resistance to selectively change a difficulty of performing an exercise.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the resistance mechanism provides a movable element connected to the resistance mechanism, the movable element being movable in the performance of an exercise.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises a handle.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises one or more user input mechanisms associated with the handle.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the one or more user input mechanisms may be selectively activated.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the movable element comprises a wireless transmitter associated with the one or more user input mechanisms.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the level of resistance of the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance increase button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the level of resistance provided by the resistance mechanism.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, upon activation of the resistance decrease button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the level of resistance provided by the resistance mechanism

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an exercise system according to one example embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the exercise system of FIG. 1 with an exerciser exercising therewith.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the exercise system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of a process for controlling an exercise device using a control ring.

FIG. 5 illustrates different spatial zones which affect the functionality of the exercise system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a spatial zone which affects the functionality of the exercise system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates an exercise control ring according to one example embodiment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an exercise control ring according to another example embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another example exercise system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, the exercise system including a paddling simulation apparatus and a detached paddle.

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the exercise system of FIG. 9.

FIG. 11 is a bottom plan view of the exercise system of FIGS. 9 and 10.

FIG. 12 is a front plan view of the exercise system of FIGS. 9-11.

FIG. 13 is a rear plan view of the exercise system of FIGS. 9-12.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are side plan views of the exercise system of FIGS. 9-13.

FIG. 16A is a perspective view of an example paddle that may be used in connection with the exercise system of FIGS. 9-15.

FIG. 16B is a perspective view of the example paddle in FIG. 16A, the paddle having an adjustable length and shortened relative to the paddle in FIG. 16A.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a paddle with user input mechanisms for controlling operating parameters of the paddling simulation apparatus of FIGS. 9-15.

FIGS. 18A-18D illustrate a user performing a single blade paddling stroke using the exercise system of FIGS. 9-15.

FIG. 19 shows a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an exercise device according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 shows an enlarged, cut-away view of the area where an arm connects to a flange on the backrest of the exercise device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 21 shows an alternate perspective view of the exercise device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 22 shows an alternate perspective view of the exercise device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 23 shows an alternate perspective view of the exercise device of FIG. 19 with various possible locations in which its arms may be rotated and positioned for different exercises.

FIG. 24 shows an enlarged view of the resistance assembly of the exercise device of FIG. 19.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of an exercise device handle with user input mechanisms for controlling operating parameters of the exercise device of FIG. 19.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure is directed to systems, methods, and devices for exercise. Depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 is a representation of one illustrative exercise system 100, which may incorporate the novel features of the present invention, including various novel devices, functionalities, hardware and software modules, and the like. As shown, exercise system 100 includes an exercise device 102 and a control ring 104. In FIG. 2, an exerciser is shown exercising on exercise device 102 while wearing control ring 104 on a finger.

In the presently illustrated embodiment, exercise device 102 is depicted as a treadmill and includes a console or control panel 106 having user input mechanisms 107 that may be used to control various aspects of exercise device 102. Control panel 106 is illustrated as being supported on a generally upright support structure 108. Upright support structure 108, in this illustrated embodiment, includes two side members 110, 112 connected to a base frame 114. Side members 110, 112 and base frame 114 may have various configurations and may be fabricated from various materials so long as they are capable of supporting control panel 106.

A treadbase 116 is connected to support structure 108 and typically includes front and rear pulleys 118, 120 with a continuous belt 122 extending between and around front and rear pulleys 118, 120, respectively. Treadbase 116, front and rear pulleys 118, 120, and continuous belt 122 may be considered, individually or collectively, as movable elements that are movable during the performance of an exercise. A deck 124 typically supports the upper run of belt 122 and an exercising individual positioned upon belt 122.

As is common with electric treadmills, at least one of front pulley 118 and rear pulley 120 may be mechanically connected to an actuator, such as an electric belt drive motor 126. In the illustrated embodiment, belt drive motor 126 turns front or rear pulley 118, 120 in order to rotate belt 122. Belt drive motor 126 is electrically connected to a controller 128 that controls the operation of belt drive motor 126, and thus the speed of belt 122, in response to various inputs. The speed of belt 122 is one example of an adjustable operating parameter of exercise device 100.

Controller 128 can be incorporated within treadbase 116, control panel 106, or another portion of exercise device 100. Controller 128 may take the form of a computer, a processor, a microprocessor, a microcontroller, state machine or other similar device that includes circuitry for controlling the operation of one or more features on exercise device 100, including the operating parameter(s) of the movable element(s). As will be discussed in greater detail below, controller 128 may also perform other functions, such as receiving and implementing control commands received from control ring 104.

In addition to the ability to control and vary the speed of belt 122, exercise device 100 may also permit variations in the degree of incline of treadbase 116 relative to base frame 114, the floor, or other support surface upon which exercise device 100 rests. For instance, treadbase 116 can be oriented in a neutral position, an inclined position, or a declined position. In the neutral position, treadbase 116 may be generally parallel to the support surface, as shown in FIG. 2. In the inclined position, the front portion of treadbase 116 (e.g., the end of treadbase 116 adjacent to support structure 114) is vertically higher than the rear portion of treadbase 116 to enable an exerciser to simulate walking or running up a hill. Similarly, in a declined position the front portion of treadbase 116 is vertically lower than the rear portion of treadbase 116 to enable an exerciser to simulate walking or running down a hill.

The inclining and declining capabilities of treadbase 116 provide exercise device 100 with additional operating parameters that may be adjusted to vary the intensity of exercises performed on exercise device 100. The inclination and declination of treadbase 116 can be accomplished through the use of one or more actuators, such as an inclination mechanism. One example inclination mechanism includes an extension mechanism 130 connected between support structure 108 and treadbase 116. Extension mechanism 130 can include an incline motor 132 that may be controllable by controller 128 to cause an extension member 134 of extension mechanism 130 to extend or retract in order to move treadbase 116 between the declines, neutral, and inclined positions.

As shown in FIG. 1, control ring 104 includes a body 136 that has an interior surface 138 and an exterior surface 140. Interior surface 138, and optionally all of body 136, is generally arcuate in shape. Interior surface 138 may be sized and shaped such that control ring 104 can be worn on a finger of an exerciser, as shown in FIG. 2. That is, interior surface 138 may be curved or otherwise shaped to generally correspond to the shape of an exerciser's finger.

Control ring 104 includes straps 142a, 142b that may be used to selectively secure body 136 on an exerciser's finger. A fastener or fastening means may be used to secure straps 142a, 142b together. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, straps 142a, 142b include a hook and loop fastener such as VELCRO®. More specifically, strap 142a includes a loop fabric on one side and strap 142b includes a hook fabric on one side, such that straps 142a, 142b can be secured together to hold body 136 on an exerciser's finger. In other embodiments, straps 142a, 142b may be secured together using clips, buckles, and the like. Straps 142a, 142b and the fasteners/fastening means may cooperate to make the size of control ring 104 adjustable so that control ring 104 can be worn on fingers of different sizes.

Control ring 104 also includes user input mechanisms 144, 146. In the illustrated embodiment, user input mechanisms 144, 146 are disposed on or extend from exterior surface 140 of body 136. As discussed in greater detail below, user input mechanisms 144, 146 may be selectively activated by an exerciser in order to adjust the operating parameters of exercise device 102. For instance, user input mechanism 144 may be a speed increase button and user input mechanism 146 may be a speed decrease button. Upon activation of user input mechanism 144, control ring 104 may communicate a control command to exercise device 102 that results in an increase in the speed of one or more of the movable elements of exercise device 102. Similarly, upon activation of user input mechanism 146, control ring 104 may communicate a control command to exercise device 102 that results in a decrease in the speed of one or more of the movable elements of exercise device 102.

With continued attention to FIGS. 1 and 2, attention is now directed to FIG. 3, which illustrates a block diagram of system 100. As shown in FIG. 3, control ring 104 includes a processor 148 that is in communication with user input mechanisms 144, 146. Upon activation of user input mechanisms 144, 146, processor 148 generates control commands that correspond or relate to the user inputs received by user input mechanisms 144, 146. For example, upon activation of user input mechanism 144, processor 148 may generate a control command that will result in the speed of belt 122, or another movable element of exercise device 102, being increased. Likewise, upon activation of user input mechanism 146, processor 148 may generate a control command that will result in the speed of belt 122, or another movable element of exercise device 102, being decreased.

In addition to user input mechanisms 144, 146 that may be used to control the speed of a movable element of exercise device 102, control ring 104 may optionally include one or more other user input mechanisms for controlling other operating parameters of exercise device 102 (e.g., incline, resistance) or aspects of an exercise session (e.g., duration, distance). In FIG. 3, for example, control ring 104 is illustrated with an optional emergency stop button 150. Upon activation of emergency stop button 150, processor 148 may generate a control command that will result in exercise device 102 stopping the movement of a movable element, such as belt 122. Emergency stop button 150 may be used when an exerciser falls or become overly fatigued.

Processor 148 may communicate the generated control commands to a transmitter 152 that is part of control ring 104. Transmitter 152 may communicate the control commands to exercise device 102 via a wireless connection between control ring 104 and exercise device 102. The wireless connection between control ring 104 and exercise device 102 may be any type of wireless connection, including Bluetooth, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), and the like. Accordingly, transmitter 152 may be a Bluetooth, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), or other type of wireless transmitter.

As shown in FIG. 3, exercise device 102 includes a receiver 154 that may receive the control commands communicated from control ring 104. Similar to transmitter 152, receiver 154 may be a Bluetooth, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), or other type of wireless receiver that is able to wirelessly communicate with transmitter 152.

Upon receipt of the control commands, receiver 154 may optionally communicate the control commands to controller 128 of exercise device 102. Controller 128 may process the received control commands and then generate and communicate new control commands to actuator 126. Alternatively, controller 128 may, with or without processing the received control commands, communicate the received control commands to actuator 126. In other embodiments, receiver 154 may, upon receipt of the control commands, communicate the received control commands directly to actuator 126. Regardless of whether actuator 126 receives the control commands directly from control ring 104 or via controller 128, in response thereto, actuator 126 may adjust the operating parameters of belt 122 or another movable element of exercise device 102.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 4, which illustrates a flow diagram of an exemplary method 160 that may be implemented to adjust one or more operating parameters of exercise device 102. Method 160 may optionally begin with step 162 in which an exercise program is run on an exercise device, such as exercise device 102. The exercise program may include one or more control commands that adjust the operating parameters of the exercise device. For instance, the exercise program may periodically adjust the resistance, incline, or speed of the exercise device and/or the movable elements of the exercise device to vary the intensity of the exerciser's workout or to simulate a real world course. Alternatively, the exercise program may simply be the initial exercise device settings selected by the exerciser. The running of the exercise program may be initiated via one or more of the user input mechanisms 107 on the exercise device.

Method 160 may also include (at step 164) receiving one or more user inputs at a control ring (e.g., 104) worn by an exerciser that is exercising on the exercise device. The user inputs received at the control ring may relate to one or more desired adjustments to be made to the operating parameters of the exercise device. For instance, the user inputs may relate to a desired increase or decrease in the speed, resistance, or incline of the exercise device.

In step 166, control commands may be generated in response to the user inputs received at the control ring. The control command may be representative of the user input received at the control ring, and thus representative of the desired adjustments to be made to the operating parameters of the exercise device.

After generation, the control commands are communicated from the control ring to the exercise device, as indicated in step 168. As noted elsewhere herein, the control commands may be communicated from the control ring to the exercise device via a wireless connection therebetween. In step 170, the control commands are received by the exercise device.

After the exercise device has received the control commands, the exercise device may optionally process the control commands in step 172. Finally, the one or more actuators of the exercise device may adjust the operating parameters of the exercise device in response to the user inputs received at the control ring and in order to reflect the desired changes in the operating parameters.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 5. Exercise system 100 may include one or more control or safety features. For instance, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be paired with one another in such a manner that exercise device 102 only responds to control commands received from control ring 104 and not from other control rings.

The pairing between exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be accomplished in a variety of ways. For instance, exercise device 102 may be designed to respond to control commands from only control ring 104. Similarly, control ring 104 may be designed to communicate with only exercise device 102. This dedicated pairing between exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be accomplished by encrypting the control commands from control ring 104.

Alternatively, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be selectively paired with one another. For instance, a virtual handshake may be created between exercise device 102 and control ring 104. When exercise device 102 and control ring 104 are selectively paired via a virtual handshake, exercise device 102 may be designed to ignore or otherwise not respond to control commands from other control rings. When exercise device 102 and control ring 104 are not paired with one another, exercise device 102 may be paired with and respond to control commands from another control ring. Similarly, when exercise device 102 and control ring 104 are not paired with one another, control ring 104 may be paired with and communicate control commands to another exercise device.

In still other embodiments, the pairing between exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be created based on their proximity to one another. For instance, transmitter 152 of control ring 104 may have a limited communication range. Likewise, exercise device 102 may be designed to communicate only with other devices that are within a predetermined range. As a result, control ring 104 may communicate with exercise device 102 and exercise device 102 may respond to control ring 104 when control ring 104 is within a predetermined range of exercise device 102.

As shown in FIG. 5, an example of predetermined range is shown encompassed by dashed line 180. When control ring 104 is within predetermined range 180, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be paired with one another. In contrast, when control ring 104 is not within predetermined range 180, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may not be paired with one another. Accordingly, exercise device 102 may be paired with and respond to control commands from only one control ring at any given time. Likewise, control ring 104 may optionally be paired with only one exercise device at a time.

Predetermined range 180, as shown in FIG. 5, optionally includes two zones. The first zone 182 includes the area encompassed by dashed line 184 and the second zone 186 is the area between dashed lines 180, 184. Exercise device 102 and/or control ring 104 may be designed so that control ring 104 is fully functional when control ring is within first zone 182. In other words, when control ring 104 is within first zone 182, control ring 104 may communicate any type of control command to exercise device 102 and exercise device 102 may be responsive thereto. For instance, when control ring 104 is within first zone 182, control ring 104 may communicate control commands relating user selected adjustments to be made to the operating parameters of exercise device 102. Additionally, exercise device 102 may respond to the received control commands by adjusting the operating parameters when control ring 104 is within first zone 182.

In contrast, control ring 104 may have limited functionality when control ring 104 is within second zone 186. In other words, when control ring 104 is within second zone 186, control ring 104 may communicate only certain types of control commands to exercise device 102 and/or exercise device 102 may respond to only certain types of control commands. For instance, when control ring 104 is within second zone 186, control ring 104 may communicate an emergency stop control command to exercise device 102 and/or exercise device 102 may only respond to an emergency stop control command from control ring 104. Exercise device 102 may respond to the received emergency stop control command by stopping the movement of one or more movable elements of exercise device 102. When control ring 104 is within second zone 186, control ring 104 may not generate and/or communicate and/or exercise device 102 may not respond to other types of control commands, such as speed increase control commands.

When control ring 104 is within second zone 186, the emergency stop control command may be generated in at least one of multiple ways. For example, as discussed above, emergency stop button 150 may be activated in order to generate an emergency stop control command. Alternatively, if control ring 104 moves from first zone 182 to second zone 186, control ring 104 may automatically generate an emergency stop control command. Upon generation of an emergency stop control command, control ring 104 may communicate the emergency stop control command to exercise device 102 in order to stop the movement of one or more of the movable elements of exercise device 102. In still other embodiments, if exercise device 102 detects that control ring 104 moves from first zone 182 to second zone 186, exercise device 102 may generate an emergency stop control command to stop the movement of one or more of the movable elements of exercise device 102.

Various technologies may be used to determine when control ring 104 is within predetermined range 180, first zone 182, or second zone 186. For instance, one or more sensors may be positioned on exercise device 102 which are capable of detecting the presence of control ring 104 within predetermined range 180, first zone 182, or second zone 186. Such sensor may include, but are not limited to infrared sensors, metal detectors, proximity sensors, sonar sensors, radar sensors, Doppler sensors, or combination thereof.

Attention is now directed to FIG. 6, which illustrates another example of a predetermined range 190 shown encompassed by dashed lines. Predetermined range 190 is illustrated as a generally rectangular cube shaped area around exercise device 102. When control ring 104 is within predetermined range 190, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may be paired with one another. In contrast, when control ring 104 is not within predetermined range 190, exercise device 102 and control ring 104 may not be paired with one another.

Similar to the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, when control ring 104 is within predetermined range 190, control ring 104 may communicate control commands to exercise device 102 and exercise device 102 may be responsive thereto. For instance, when control ring 104 is within predetermined range 190 (such as when worn by an exerciser on exercise device 102), control ring 104 may communication control command (e.g., increase/decrease speed) to exercise device 102. Exercise device 102 may respond to the control command by adjusting the appropriate operating parameters of exercise device 102. If control ring 104 is outside predetermined range 190, however, control ring 104 may not be able to communicate control commands to exercise device 102 or exercise device 102 may not respond to control commands from control ring 104.

If control ring 104 moves from inside to outside of predetermined range 190 while exercise device 102 is operating, control ring 104 and/or exercise device 102 stop certain operations of exercise device 102. For instance, if an exerciser intentionally or unintentionally gets off of exercise device 102 while exercise device 102 is still operating (e.g., movable element(s) are still moving), control ring 104 may communicate an emergency stop control command to exercise device 102 and/or exercise device 102 may respond to only an emergency stop control command from control ring 104. The emergency stop control command may be automatically generated by control ring 104 when control ring 104 leaves predetermined range 190. Alternatively, the emergency stop control command may be generated by the exerciser activating emergency stop button 150. In yet other embodiments, if exercise device 102 detects that control ring 104 moves from inside to outside predetermined range 190, exercise device 102 may generate an emergency stop control command. In any case, exercise device 102 may respond to the received emergency stop control command by stopping the movement of one or more movable elements of exercise device 102. When control ring 104 outside of predetermined range 190, control ring 104 may not generate and/or communicate and/or exercise device 102 may not respond to other types of control commands, such as speed increase control commands.

Like the embodiment of FIG. 6, it may be determined that control ring 104 is inside or outside predetermined range 190 using such technologies as infrared sensors, metal detectors, proximity sensors, sonar sensors, radar sensors, Doppler sensors, or combination thereof.

FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate alternate embodiments of control rings for use in controlling exercise devices. FIG. 7 illustrates a control ring 200 that includes a body 202. Body 202 has an interior surface 204 and an exterior surface 206. Interior surface 204, and optionally all of body 205, is generally arcuate in shape. Interior surface 204 may be sized and shaped such that control ring 200 can be worn on a finger of an exerciser, as shown in FIG. 2. That is, interior surface 204 may be curved or otherwise shaped to generally correspond to the shape of an exerciser's finger.

Like control ring 104, control ring 200 includes user input mechanisms 208, 210. In the illustrated embodiment, user input mechanisms 144, 146 are disposed on or extend from exterior surface 206 of body 202. Like user input mechanisms 144, 146, user input mechanisms 208, 210 may be selectively activated by an exerciser in order to adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device. For instance, user input mechanism 208 may be a speed decrease button and user input mechanism 210 may be a speed increase button. Upon activation of user input mechanism 208, control ring 200 may communicate a control command to an exercise device that results in a decrease in the speed of one or more of the movable elements of the exercise device. Similarly, upon activation of user input mechanism 210, control ring 200 may communicate a control command to an exercise device that results in an increase in the speed of one or more of the movable elements of the exercise device.

Control ring 200 also includes strap 212 that may be used to selectively secure body 202 on an exerciser's finger. Strap 212 is connected to opposing ends of body 202 so that body 202 and strap 212 define an aperture 214 through control ring 200. Aperture 214 may be sized such that control ring 104 can be worn on a finger of an exerciser, as shown in FIG. 2. That is, aperture 214 may have a diameter that generally corresponds to a diameter of an exerciser's finger. Optionally, strap 212 may be made from a stretchable material (e.g., spandex, nylon, foam, rubber, fabric) so that the size of aperture 214 may be adjusted to accommodate fingers of different sizes

FIG. 8 illustrates a control ring 220 that includes a body 222 that has a generally circular ring shape. More specifically, body 222 includes an interior surface 224 and an exterior surface 226. Interior surface 224 at least partially defines an aperture 232 in body 222. Aperture 232 may be sized such that control ring 220 can be worn on a finger of an exerciser, as shown in FIG. 2. That is, aperture 232 may have a diameter that generally corresponds to a diameter of an exerciser's finger.

Similar to the other control rings described herein, control ring 220 includes user input mechanisms 228, 230 that may be activated by an exerciser to adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device. In addition, control ring 220 optionally includes a selector 234 that may be selectively moved between one or more positions. Selector 234 may be used to change the functionality of user input mechanisms 228, 230. For instance, when selector 234 is in the position shown in FIG. 8, user input mechanisms 228, 230 may be used to change the speed of a movable element on an exercise device. In contrast, when selector 234 is moved to another position within channel 236, user input mechanisms 228, 230 may be used to change the incline of a movable element on an exercise device.

Control ring 220 can also optionally include one or more indicators, such as indicators 238, 240. Indicators 238, 240 may indicate to the exerciser what operating parameters control ring 220 is set to control. That is, when selector 234 is set so that user input mechanisms 228, 230 control the speed of a movable element of an exercise device, indicator 238 may be activated so that the exerciser will know that activation of user input mechanisms 228, 230 will change the speed of the movable element. Likewise, when selector 234 is set so that user input mechanisms 228, 230 control the incline of a movable element of an exercise device, indicator 240 may be activated so that the exerciser will know that activation of user input mechanisms 228, 230 will change the incline of the movable element.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 9-17 which depict a representation of another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 9-17 depict an illustrative exercise system 300, which may incorporate the novel features of the present invention, including various novel devices, functionalities, hardware and software modules, and the like. As shown, exercise system 300 is depicted in the form of a paddling training device. In the illustrated embodiment, the exercise system 300 includes a body support 302 connected to a resistance mechanism 304. A paddle 306 may also be included and can be connected to the resistance mechanism 304 for use during a paddling exercise as described herein.

The body support 302 may include a seat 308 on which a user may sit, stand or kneel. In general, the seat 308 may be oriented to be generally horizontal, and can have a generally planar top surface. In other embodiments, however, the seat 308 may be angled, contoured, or otherwise configured. For instance, the top surface may be contoured to generally correspond to the shape and/or size of a user's knees to allow a user to comfortably kneel thereon.

The seat 308 may include a front end 310 and an opposing rear end 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the front end 310 is connected to the resistance mechanism 304 by means of an elongated support structure 314. The elongated support structure 314, in this example embodiment, includes a first extension member 314a extending longitudinally outward from the front end 310 of the seat 308. The first extension member 314a may be fixedly secured to the seat 308, or may be movable with respect thereto. When fixed, the seat 308 may be fixed in place to generally restrict or prevent movement of the seat 308 relative to the elongated support structure 314 during use.

The first extension member 314a may be generally horizontal and/or parallel to a top surface of the seat 308; however, such an arrangement is illustrative only. Indeed, as best shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, the first extension member 314a may extend longitudinally outward while being inclined relative to a horizontal and/or the top surface of the seat 308. In such an embodiment, the first extension member 314a may extend both outward and upward relative to all or a portion of the seat 308. Such a first extension member 314a may be linear, curved, or have any other suitable configuration or construction.

In at least some embodiments, the resistance mechanism 304 may be connected to the elongated support structure 314 in a manner that positions the resistance mechanism 304 higher relative to the seat 308. Such a position may be facilitated by, for instance, an inclined first extension member 314a that extends outward and upward relative to the front end 310 of the seat 308. The resistance mechanism 304 may be connected to a distal end of the first extension member 314a which can be positioned at a higher elevation than the seat 308. In one embodiment, for instance, when the exercise system 300 is upright such as in the embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the resistance mechanism 304 may be located at an elevation between about six and about thirty-six inches above the top surface of the seat 308. More particularly, in some embodiments, the resistance mechanism 304 may be between about twelve and about twenty-four inches above the top surface of the seat 308. In still other embodiments, the resistance mechanism 304 may be between about nine and about eighteen inches above the top surface of the seat 308. In yet additional embodiments, the resistance mechanism 304 may be elevated more than about thirty-six inches above the seat 308 or less than about six inches above the seat 308.

In other embodiments the resistance mechanism 304 may connect to the first extension member 314a using one or more intermediate components. In FIGS. 9-15, for instance, a second extension member 314b is located between the first extension member 314a and the resistance mechanism 304. More particularly, the illustrated second extension member 314b may provide a transition from the first extension member 314a to a connection member 317 that attaches to the resistance mechanism 304. As best shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, for instance, the second extension member 314b may change the direction in which the elongated support structure extends. More particularly, the second extension member 314b may change the extension from an outward (and optionally upward) direction to a substantially upward direction. The second extension member 314b of the illustrated embodiment, for instance, has a distal end that is directed substantially vertically, although other embodiments contemplate second extension members that extend in different directions or have different orientations.

Transitioning to an upward, vertical direction may facilitate connecting the second extension member 314b to a connection member 317 and/or a housing 316 of the resistance mechanism 304. In embodiments that include a connection member 317, the connection member 317 may have any suitable form or structure. In some embodiments, for instance, the connection member 317 may include a mechanical fastener such as a screw, pin, rivet, clamp, or other device, or any combination thereof. In other embodiments the connection member 317 may be a bracket, brace, or other component that can be fastened to each of the second extension member 314b and the housing 316 to connect the resistance mechanism 304 to the elongated support structure 314.

While the first and second extension members 314a, 314b are described as separate elements that may be connected together, it should be appreciated that such elements are merely illustrative and that other elements may be used, or that the elements may be integrally formed as part of a single component. For instance, the first and second extension members 314a, 314b may be integrally formed from a single piece of material. That material may be cut, bent, cast, molded, or otherwise formed to have a shape that defines the first and second extension members 314a, 314b. Thus, the first and second extension members 314a, 314b may be formed of a metal, alloy, composite material, polymer, organic material (e.g., wood), or another material, or any combination of the foregoing. The original structure of the materials used to form the first and second extension members 314a, 314b may thus be a bar, rod, tube, beam, slab, post, panel, or other similar structure, or may even have the form of pellets, molten or other liquid materials, or other structure depending on the manner in which the first and second extension members 314a, 314b are to be formed. In still other embodiments the first and second extension members 314a, 314b may be formed separately in any suitable manner and thereafter connected or otherwise directly or indirectly joined.

As described herein, the resistance mechanism 304 may be connected to the elongated support structure 314, whether by using a second extension member 314b, a connection member 317, or in some other manner. The resistance mechanism 304 may generally be configured to provide a resistance, and optionally a variable resistance, to a user using the exercise device 300 to simulate a paddling or rowing stroke. In particular, and as shown in FIGS. 9-15, the resistance mechanism 304 may include a housing 316 enclosing a resistance assembly. The resistance assembly may take any suitable form. In one embodiment, for instance, the resistance assembly may include a wheel around which a cable 320 is coiled. The wheel may be spring loaded or otherwise biased to rotate in a direction that causes the cable 320 to retract within the housing 316. More particularly, the cable 320 may be wound around the interior wheel, and can be retracted fully, or substantially fully, within the housing 316. For instance, when substantially fully retracted, the cable 320 may be located within the housing 316 except for a portion directly adjacent a connector 322 abutting the housing 316. As the interior wheel rotates in a first direction (e.g., clockwise), the cable 320 may wind around the wheel, whereas rotation in a second direction (e.g., counterclockwise) may unwind the cable 320 around the wheel. The wheel may be frictionally or otherwise engaged with the cable 320 such that movement of the cable 320 in an outward direction relative to the housing 316 may cause the interior wheel to rotate.

The resistance mechanism 304 may include one or more components for resisting the movement of the cable 320 outward from the housing 316. In one embodiment, for instance, an interior wheel within the housing 316 may be linked to a frictional brake, a damper, a spring, or some other component. For instance, the same spring that biases the interior wheel to rotate in one direction may provide resistance to counter-rotation that allows the cable 320 to unwind from the wheel and move outward from the housing 316. A brake, damper, or other component may provide a similar effect.

In some embodiments the resistance may be variable. For instance, in FIGS. 9-14 the housing 316 of the resistance mechanism 304 is connected to a knob 318. The knob 318 is one example of a suitable element that may be used to selectively adjust the resistance provided by the resistance mechanism 318. As an illustration, a user may rotate the knob 318. The knob 318 may extend into the housing 316 and connect to a component that biases the interior wheel or which resists counter-rotation of the interior wheel.

As an illustration, the resistance mechanism 304 may include an interior wheel that is spring loaded. The knob 318 may be linked to one or more springs within the housing 316. By rotating the knob 318, the effective length of the springs acting upon the interior wheel may be varied. Rotating the knob 318 in one direction may, for instance, increase the effective length of the interior spring and reduce resistance to unwinding of the cable 320. In contrast, rotating the knob 318 in an opposing direction may decrease the effective length of the interior spring and increase resistance to unwinding of the cable 320. In another embodiment, the housing 316 may house a frictional brake. Rotation of the knob 318 in one direction can increase the coefficient of friction between the brake and the interior wheel to increase resistance to unwinding of the cable 320. The coefficient of friction can be increased by causing the frictional brake to have increased engagement with the interior wheel. Conversely, by rotating the knob 318 in an opposing direction, the coefficient of friction can be reduced by reducing the engagement between the interior wheel and the frictional brake. As a result, the resistance felt in rotating the interior wheel to unwind the cable 320 can be reduced.

It should be appreciated that the resistance mechanism 304 can operate in other manners. For instance, the resistance mechanism 304 may include a magnetic brake and rotating the knob 318 may vary the magnetic resistance for unwinding and/or winding the cable 320 within the housing 316. In other embodiments, rather than using a knob 318, a digital or electronic control may be used to control any suitable components for creating resistance to withdrawal of the cable 320 from the housing 316 or to rotation of a wheel in one or more directions within the resistance mechanism 304.

The resistance mechanism 304 may be used to simulate varying environmental and/or training conditions that can occur in the real world. For instance, if a person is canoeing on a river, the difficulty in paddling may vary based on a variety of factors. Such factors may include the speed and direction of the water current, the speed and direction of surface wind, and the like. Still other factors may include the depth of the stroke by the user. For instance, a canoeist may make a canoeing stroke with half of the blade within the water, with the entire blade in the water, or with any other portion of the blade in the water. In general, assuming the paddle is moved at the same speed, the larger the surface area of the blade within the water, the greater the resistance that will be felt in making the paddling stroke. Accordingly, by increasing or decreasing the resistance to be applied to the cable 320 by the resistance mechanism 304, any of numerous different conditions may be simulated.

A paddle, oar, or other tool is typically used to manually power an aquatic vehicle such as a kayak, canoe, row boat, or the like. To simulate such exercise, the exercise system 300 of FIGS. 9-15 may further include a paddle 306. The paddle 306 is illustrative of any suitable type of instrument that may be used to manually propel an aquatic vehicle through water. Thus, while the paddle 306 generally has the form of a paddle that may be used with a canoe, in other embodiments the paddle 306 may take the form of a kayak paddle or an oar. In still other embodiments, the paddle 306 may not have the same form as a paddle, oar or the like, and may instead have another form. For instance, the paddle 306 may instead be a rod.

The paddle 306 of FIGS. 9-15 is illustrated in additional detail in FIGS. 16A and 16B. In particular, the paddle 306 may include a variety of components, including a handle 324 connected to an upper end of an elongate shaft 326. At an opposing end of the elongate shaft 326, there may be an optional blade 328.

Each component of the paddle 306 may be varied or customized as desired, and may even be selectively adjustable by a user. The blade 328, for instance, may have any of a variety of different forms. By way of example, the blade 328 may generally mimic a blade of a paddle used in the water to propel a canoe or other aquatic vehicle. For instance, a common paddle blade has rounded distal ends and measures approximately eight inches wide by twenty inches in length. The blade 328 may, but is not required to, have similar dimensions. Other paddles for use with embodiments of the present disclosure have different blade sizes and/or shapes, and the blade 328 of paddle 306 could be varied in a similar manner. For instance, the blade 328 may be made narrower or wider, may be longer or shorter, or may have a different shape. A different shape may include, for instance, a square-tipped blade rather than a rounded blade. Accordingly, the blade 328 optionally simulates the shape and configuration of an actual paddle blade. Indeed, in at least some embodiments the paddle 306 may be used out of the water as a training device in conjunction with the exercise system 300 of FIGS. 9-15 as well as in the water to propel a canoe or other vehicle. In other embodiments, however, the paddle 306 may be intended solely for use with the exercise system 300 of FIGS. 9-15. According to at least some embodiments, the blade 328 may even be eliminated entirely, or may bear little or no resemblance to a blade of a water-bearing blade. The blade 328 may also be selectively removable to allow different blades to be interchangeable or replaceable due to wear, user preference, or any other of myriad factors.

As noted herein, the components of the paddle 306 may be varied in a number of manners. The paddle 306 is shown as having a T-shaped handle 324, although other embodiments may include other handles or grips. For instance, the T-shaped handle 324 may be replaced with a pear grip. Optionally, the handle 324 is detachable relative to the shaft 326 so as to allow different sizes, shapes or types of handles 324 to be interchangeable.

The shaft 326 may also have any suitable configuration. In accordance with one embodiment, the shaft 326 has a circular or elliptical cross-sectional shape. The shaft 326 may generally extend from the handle 324 to the blade 328, and can be of any suitable length, and such length may be fixed or adjustable. In the illustrated embodiment in FIGS. 16A and 16B, for instance, the length of the shaft 326 is adjustable. One manner of adjusting the length of shaft 326 may be to use telescoping components. More particularly, the illustrated shaft 326 may include a plurality of components 332-338. Such components may include an upper portion 332 that connects to a locking member 336. The upper portion 332 may be sized to be larger than a lower portion 338 of the shaft 326, so as to allow the lower portion 338 to be at least partially received within the upper portion 332. The lower portion 338 may be slidably disposed relative to the upper portion 332 to allow selective adjustment of the working length of the shaft 326.

The locking member 336 may be used to selectively lock the upper and lower portions 332, 338 of the shaft 326 at a particular length. In one embodiment, the locking member 336 can be rotated as shown in FIG. 16A. Such rotation may increase or decrease the frictional engagement between the upper and lower portions 332, 338 of the shaft 326. Thus, by rotating the locking member 336 in one direction, friction can be decreased to allow the upper portion 332 of the shaft 332 to move relative to the lower portion 338 of the shaft 332. If the upper portion 332 is moved in the direction shown in FIG. 16A, the length of the shaft 326 can be reduced as shown in FIG. 16B. When the locking member 336 is rotated in an opposite direction, friction can be increased to effectively fix the relative positions of the upper and lower portions 332, 338 of the shaft.

It should be appreciated that such a locking member 336 is merely illustrative. In other embodiments, for instance, the locking member 336 may include a helical component such as a worm gear or screw so that rotation of the locking member 336 may move the upper portion 332 relative to the lower portion 338 of the shaft. In another element, the locking member 336 may include a slot or pin that corresponds with the location of a slot or pin on the lower portion 338 of the shaft 326. The locking member 336 may be moved axially and then rotated to release from a corresponding locking component and allow relative movement to change the length of the shaft 326. Of course, any number of other locking members 336 may be used, including pins, clasps, clamps, and the like. Moreover, in other embodiments the shaft 326 may have an adjustable length without necessarily having telescoping components. For instance, whole sections of the shaft 326 may be selectively removable to allow the shaft length to change.

The components of the paddle 306 as described herein are merely illustrative and fewer or additional components may be included. In FIGS. 16A and 16B, for instance, the upper portion 332 of the shaft 336 may include or be attached to a grip 334. The illustrated grip 334 can extend longitudinally along a length of the shaft 326 and provide a place for a user to position one of his or her hands. More particularly, a user may use one hand to grasp the handle 324 while a second hand is placed on the grip 334. The grip 334 may optionally be configured for comfort. For instance, a soft or resilient material such as foam, rubber, or the like can be placed around the upper shaft 332 to provide a comfortable grip. In other embodiments, the grip 334 may be contoured. For instance, according to at least one embodiment, oval indexing may be applied to the shaft 336 so that the grip 334 has an elliptical shape while other portions of the shaft 326 may be generally circular. In another embodiment, grooves for fingers may be provided on the grip 334.

The shaft 326 is also shown as being straight. Other embodiments contemplate a bent shaft. When used in water, a bent shaft may enhance efficiency of a stroke by helping the paddle remain upright in the water during the power phase of the stroke. The angle of any bend may vary. In some embodiments the angle is up to about twenty degrees, or more particularly between about six and about fifteen degrees, although the angle may be larger or smaller in other embodiments. If a user is accustomed to a bent shaft in water, the user may also prefer a bent shaft out of water in connection with the exercise system 300 of FIGS. 9-15.

As shown in FIG. 17, the paddle 306 may include user input mechanisms 342, 344. In the illustrated embodiment, user input mechanisms 342, 344 may be disposed on or extend from handle 324 of paddle 306. User input mechanisms 342, 344 may be selectively activated by an exerciser in order to adjust the operating parameters of resistance mechanism 304. For instance, user input mechanism 342 may be a resistance increase button and user input mechanism 344 may be a resistance decrease button. Upon activation of user input mechanism 342, paddle 306 may communicate a control command to resistance mechanism 304 that results in an increase in the resistance of resistance mechanism 304. Similarly, upon activation of user input mechanism 344, paddle 306 may communicate a control command to resistance mechanism 304 that results in a decrease in the resistance of resistance mechanism 304.

The communication of wireless control commands described above may be implemented with respect to this embodiment of the invention. More specifically, paddle 306 may include a processor and a transmitter to generate and transmit control commands upon activation of user input mechanisms 342, 344. A receiver and actuator may be associated with resistance mechanism 304. The receiver may receive the control commands from the transmitter in paddle 306. The receiver may then pass the control commands to the actuator. In response to the control commands, the actuator may adjust the resistance of resistance mechanism 304.

Similar to the additional user inputs described above in connection with FIG. 8, paddle 306 may include other user input mechanisms for controlling other operating parameters or aspects of exercise system 300. In addition, as described in connection with FIGS. 5 and 6, exercise system 300 may include control or safety features such as pairing capabilities to ensure that exercise system 300 only responds to control commands received from paddle 306 and not from other paddles.

The paddle 306 may be used in connection with an exercise system for simulating paddling of an aquatic vehicle. In some embodiments the paddle 306 may therefore include a connection element 330 for connecting the paddle 306 to a corresponding exercise system. In FIGS. 16A and 16B the connection element 330 is shown as being located at a distal end of the blade 328 of the paddle 306 although a connection element 330 may be located in any other suitable location. Indeed, inasmuch as blade 328 may be eliminated or removed, in other embodiments the connection element 330 may be placed on the shaft 326 of the paddle 306. In a more specific embodiment, a connection element 331 (FIG. 15) may be located somewhere other than the distal end of the blade 328, such as along a portion of the shaft 326.

The connection elements 330, 331 are shown as including an opening or loop. In one embodiment, the loop or opening of the connection element 330 is bounded by the body of the blade 328 on the sides and proximal end of the blade 328, and by a post 340 on the distal end thereof. The loop may be circular, semi-circular, parabolic, or have any other suitable shape. The loop of the connection element 330 shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B is open in the interior which may provide a space in which a corresponding connector of an exercise system may be located to connect the paddle 306 to the exercise machine. In some embodiments, the open interior of the loop may also provide a space to allow movement of the connector of the exercise system during exercise or other training in which the paddle 306 moves relative to the exercise system.

A particular manner in which the paddle 306 may be used in connection with an exercise system is shown in FIGS. 18A-18D, which generally illustrate a manner in which a user can perform a single blade paddling stroke using the exercise system of FIGS. 9-15.

In particular, and as shown in FIG. 18A, a user may position himself or herself on the body support 302 of an exercise system 300. In the illustrated example, the user may kneel on the seat 308 of the body support 302. The user's feet may then extend rearward towards a rear end of the seat 308 while the user's torso extends generally upward from the seat 308.

The user may grasp or otherwise hold the paddle 306. To begin an exercise or training routine the user may connect the paddle 306 to the resistance mechanism 304 of the exercise system 300. In this embodiment, the paddle 306 may include a connection element 330 (see FIG. 16A) while the resistance mechanism 304 may include a corresponding connector 322 (see FIG. 9). The connector 322 and the connection element 330 may have complementary structures. As described herein, for instance, the connection element 330 may define an opening or loop. The connector 322 of the resistance mechanism 304 may have a corresponding hook or other fastener thereon that can mate with the loop of the connection element 330. For instance, a hook may be sized to have an internal diameter sized to receive the post 340 defining a portion of the loop (see FIG. 16A). The hook may then be placed around the post 340. The hook may also be configured to remain connected to the post 340 even during movement. For instance, a latch or other structure may optionally be included to close the hook over the post 340. The latch may be selectively actuated so that a user can engage or disengage the latch at any time to allow the paddle 306 to be removed from the resistance mechanism 304. The connector 322 and connection element 330 may of course have any number of other structures or configurations as would be appreciated by one skilled in the art in view of the disclosure herein.

In accordance with some embodiments of the present disclosure, a user may first connect the paddle 306 to the resistance mechanism 304 and then begin an exercise routine in which forward paddle strokes are simulated. In FIG. 18A, for instance, the paddle 306 is connected to the resistance mechanism 304 while the user holds the handle 324 and grip 334 of the paddle 306. The blade 328 of the paddle 306 is positioned near the resistance mechanism 304 and is elevated relative to the seat 308 and may even be elevated relative to the elongated support structure 314 and/or the housing 316 of the resistance mechanism 304.

From the illustrated position, the user may move the paddle into the catch and power phases of a stroke. In particular, as shown in FIG. 18B, the user may cause the blade 328 of the paddle to move downward and rearward from the position shown in FIG. 18A. As the user moves the blade 328 downward and rearward, the blade 328 may be positioned to one side of the elongated support structure 314 and the distance from the resistance mechanism 304 may increase. In doing so, the connector 322 and connection element 330 may remain engaged. The connector 322 can be connected to the cable 320. As a result, as the connector 322 is moved away from the resistance mechanism 304, the cable 320 may be extended from the housing 316 of the resistance mechanism 304. In FIG. 18B, the cable 320 is shown as extending downward and rearward from the housing 316 to the distal tip of the paddle blade 328 where the connection element 330 is located.

As the user moves the paddle 328 in the described manner, the resistance mechanism 316 can resist such movement. For instance, as described herein, a spring, damper, frictional brake, magnetic brake, or other component, or some combination of the foregoing, may provide a resistance to the cable 320 as it is extended out of the housing 316, and the user's effort to move the paddle 304 overcomes the resistance provided by the resistance mechanism 304. The amount of resistance that is provided may be varied, and can in some cases be selectively controlled by the user with a control mechanism such as the knob 318. Additionally or alternatively, the user may selectively vary the resistance by activating user input mechanisms 342, 344.

In a real-world environment, the user may position a paddle in the water and at a forward position along a side of the canoe. The user can then begin to pull the paddle blade backwards in the main part of the stroke during which the power is produced to move the canoe forward. This portion of the stroke may be considered the power phase, a portion of which is generally illustrated in FIG. 18B. In particular, the illustrated position may be obtained after moving the paddle blade 328 forward and to the side of the elongated support structure 314 and then drawing the blade 328 backwards. As the user does so, the angle of the paddle 306 may change relative in the exercise system 300. The change in angle may be produced by moving the blade 328 rearward. In some cases, the user's hands and the handle 328 and grip 334 may also move rearward but at a different rate than the blade 328 so that the angle of the paddle 306 changes. In other embodiments, the user's hands and the handle 328 and grip 334 may remain relatively stationary or may even move forward to increase the rate at which the angle of the paddle 306 changes.

As the user continues to draw the blade 328 of the paddle 306 rearward, the user may continue to paddle in the power phase of the stroke. FIG. 18C illustrates an additional embodiment in which the user has drawn the blade 328 rearward during a power phase. With continued rearward movement of the blade 328, the paddle 328 may come to the end of the power phase of the stroke, which may also correspond generally to the recovery phase where the paddle would be removed from the water and moved to the beginning of the setup or catch phase to cycle through the next stroke. FIG. 18D generally illustrates the end of the power phase. As seen in FIGS. 18C and 18D, when the stroke is completing the power phase, the paddle 306 may have the blade 328 drawn to the side and optionally past a rear end 312 (see FIG. 9) of the seat 308. As such movement occurs, the resistance mechanism 306 may remain connected to the paddle 306 and the cable 320 can be further extended from the housing 316. In such a position, the angle of the paddle 306 may be further changed from the angle shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, either by maintaining the user's hands stationary, moving the user's hands forward, or moving the user's hands rearward at a rate less than the rate the blade 328 is moved rearward.

In some embodiments, a change in paddle angle may cause the connector 322 to be repositioned relative to the connector 330 and/or paddle 306. In particular, the angle of the cable 320 may also change as the angle of the paddle 306 changes. The connector 322 may generally be configured to remain about parallel or collinear relative to the cable 320. Thus, the change in paddle angle and cable angle may change the angle of the paddle 328 relative to the connector 322. In some embodiments, the connector 322 has freedom to move or change position. For instance, the connection member 330 of the paddle 328 may define a loop or opening. The loop or opening may be sized to allow the connector 322 to rotate at least partially therein as the paddle 306 moves relative to the cable 320 and resistance mechanism 304. The loop or opening may further be configured in a manner that allows the connector 322 freedom to move or reposition for a variety of different types of strokes, including a forward stroke, j-stroke, or other type of paddling stroke.

When the user has completed the power phase of the paddle stroke, the user may then lift the paddle blade 328 and move the paddle blade 328 forward. For instance, the user may lift the blade 328 above and/or to a side of the seat 308 and then forward to a position above all or a portion of the elongate support structure 314 as shown in FIG. 18A. The user may then continue to cycle the paddle 306 through strokes as shown in FIGS. 18A-18D.

While FIGS. 18A-18D illustrate a paddle stroke in which the stroke is made on the right side of the user's body, it should be appreciated that such an embodiment is merely illustrative. Indeed, the user may selectively choose which side of his or her body, and which side of the exercise system 300 the user may use for a paddle stroke. Thus, when a user completes a stroke as shown in FIGS. 18A-18D, the user may start a new stroke and choose whether to make the stroke on the same side, or on a different side, relative to the most recently completed stroke.

One aspect of the exercise system 300 as described herein is thus the ability to simulate the stroke for propelling an aquatic vehicle such as a canoe while on land and without a canoe or other boat. Moreover, such simulation can be done to allow strokes to occur on both sides of the user's body to simulate a typical real-world environment where a user would paddle on both sides of the boat. Further still, resistance can be applied to simulate real-world conditions including the drag of the paddle in the water, and varied to match different environmental or other conditions such as the speed and direction of water current or wind, or the depth of a paddling stroke.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 19-24 which depict a representation of another embodiment of the present invention. Specifically, FIGS. 19-24 depict an illustrative exercise system 400, which may incorporate the novel features of the present invention, including various novel devices, functionalities, hardware and software modules, and the like. As shown, exercise system 400 is depicted in the form of a strength machine.

In the illustrated embodiment, as shown in FIG. 19, the exercise device 400 comprises a frame 415, a base plate 410, a seat 420, a backrest 430, and arms 440 and 450 that can be rotated and positioned according to the user's wishes for a desired exercise. Each arm 440 and 450 is movably connected to the frame 415 by means of respective “shoulders” or flanges 442 and 452 and are adjustable by means of respective knobs 441 and 451 that move into and out of holes 443 and 453 located on each flange 442 and 452, respectively. Arms 440 and 450 further respectively comprise pulleys 449 and 459 attached at their distal ends, cable strands 444 and 454, and handles 445 and 455 attached to the cable strands for performing all arm-related exercises.

FIG. 20 shows an enlarged, cut-away view of the area where arm 450 connects to flange 452 on the backrest 430 by means of the adjustment knob 451, flange 452 and its holes 453. Arm 450 is pivotally connected to flange 452. When adjustment knob 451 is moved out of one of holes 453, arm 450 may be selectively pivoted to a desired orientation. Once arm 450 is in the desired orientation, knob 451 may be moved back into one of holes 453 to selectively secure arm 451 in place. Arm 440 connects to flange 442 in the same manner.

FIG. 21 shows another perspective view of the exercise device 400 of FIG. 19. In FIG. 19, the arms 440 and 450 have been rotated differently from that of FIG. 19 so that they form a 180 degree angle and are in position for a different exercise. FIG. 22 shows another perspective view of the exercise device 400. In FIG. 22, the arms 440 and 450 have been rotated differently from that of FIGS. 19 and 21 so that they are in position for yet a different exercise. FIG. 23 shows another perspective view of the exercise device 400 with various possible locations in which the arms 440 and 450 may be rotated and positioned for different exercises.

FIG. 24 shows an enlarged view of a resistance assembly of the exercise device 400 of FIG. 19, which includes a cut-away side view of the rear area of the exercise device 400 where the user can adjust the resistance level on the exercise machine 400. FIG. 24 shows a rear base 412, the frame 415, the backrest 430, and the resistance assembly, which comprises two gas springs 460, cable strands 464, resistance arm 466, a pulley 468, and an adjustment handle 462. One option for increasing the amount of resistance provided by the resistance assembly includes the user squeezing the adjustment handle 462 and moving the handle 462, which is connected to the gas springs 460, along adjustment arm 466 and away from the backrest 430, and then releasing the handle 462 in the desired position on the adjustment arm 466. To decrease the amount of resistance, the user can squeeze the handle 462 and move the handle 462 toward the backrest 430, and then release the handle in the desired location on the adjustment arm 466. Note that cable strands 464 and cable strands 444 and 454 are part of the same cable, all interconnected for the performance of exercises. Strands 464 are connected to cables 444 and 454 through rear base 412 and frame 415, as shown in FIG. 24.

Rather than using handle 462 to adjust the resistance of the resistance assembly, one or both of handles 445, 455 may include user input mechanisms that may be used to adjust the resistance of the resistance assembly. For instance, as shown in FIG. 25, the handle 445 may include user input mechanisms 470, 472. The user input mechanisms 470, 472 may be selectively activated by an exerciser in order to adjust the operating parameters of exercise system 400. For instance, user input mechanism 470 may be a resistance increase button and user input mechanism 472 may be a resistance decrease button. Upon activation of user input mechanism 470, handle 445 may generate (e.g., via a processor) and communicate (e.g., via a wireless transmitter) a control command to the resistance assembly that results in an increase in the resistance of the strength machine. Similarly, upon activation of user input mechanism 472, handle 445 may generate (e.g., via a processor) and communicate (e.g., via a wireless transmitter) a control command to exercise system 400 that results in a decrease in the resistance of the strength machine.

As described above in connection with FIG. 8, other user input mechanisms for controlling other operating parameters or aspects of the exercise system 400 may be implemented with respect to this embodiment of the invention.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

In general, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to exercise systems, devices, and methods that enable an exerciser to control operating parameters of an exercise device using wireless control commands while continuing to exercise. The systems, devices, and methods of the present disclosure allow an exerciser to adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device using a control ring that is worn on the exerciser's hand, buttons on the handle of a paddle machine, or buttons on the handle of a strength machine.

When exercising on an exercise device, an exerciser may desire to adjust one or more operating parameters of the exercise device in order to change one or more aspects of the exercise being performed. For instance, the exerciser may want to increase or decrease the speed of the exercise device's movable element(s) in order to change the speed at which the exercise is performed. In other situations, the exerciser may want to increase or decrease the resistance provided by the exercise device and/or the incline at which the exercise is performed.

The systems and devices disclosed herein enable an exerciser to adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device using wireless control commands. Such commands may come from a control ring that the exerciser wears, from the handle of a paddling exercise device, or from the handle of a strength machine. Significantly, adjusting the operating parameters with wireless control commands as disclosed herein reduces or eliminates the need for the exerciser to manipulate controls on the console of the exercise device or to stop exercising or dismount from the exercise device in order to adjust the operating parameters.

Manipulating controls on an exercise device, such as on the console of the exercise device, can be difficult, especially during the performance of an exercise. For instance, when an exerciser is running on a treadmill, it can be difficult to reach the treadmill console and press the desired buttons in order to achieve the desired operating parameter adjustments. Furthermore, manipulating console controls can also negatively impact the exercisers exercising form and/or performance. For instance, reaching for the console controls may cause the exerciser to undesirably change his/her pace, stride length, speed, and/or lose his/her balance. Still further, to adjust the operating parameters of some exercise devices, the user must stop exercising, and even dismount from the exercise device, in order to make the desired adjustments.

In contrast to manipulating controls on an exercise device console or having to stop exercising in order to adjust operating parameters, the embodiments disclosed herein enable the exerciser to more easily adjust the operating parameters of the exercise device without negatively impacting the exerciser's form and/or performance. The exerciser can simply activate one of the user input mechanisms in order to achieve the desired operating parameter change. For instance, rather than having to interrupt the exerciser's form in order to reach forward to manipulate a console control, the exerciser can simply use a finger on the same hand that wears the control ring to press a button on the control ring. Similarly, rather than stopping the exercise and dismounting from the exercise device to adjust operating parameters, the use can simply activate a user input mechanism on a paddle/handle of the exercise device that the user holds while exercising. As a result, the user can quickly and easily adjust operating parameters without having to stop exercising or significantly alter the user's exercise movements.

While the invention provides an easier and simpler way of adjusting the operating parameters of an exercise device, it does not negatively impact the exerciser's performance. In the case of a control ring, for instance, since the control ring is worn on a finger, the exerciser does not have to constantly hold or carry the control ring with his/her hand. Rather, when not using the control ring to adjust the operating parameters, the exerciser can relax his/her hand and without worrying about dropping the control ring. Furthermore, the control ring is lightweight enough as to not be bothersome or burdensome to the exerciser. Likewise, a user on the paddle machine or the resistance machine can continue paddling or exercising while changing the resistance.

The disclosed devices/systems also provide various safety features. For instance, the control ring, paddle, or handle, depending on the embodiment, and/or the exercise device may be paired with one another so that control commands from only one control ring, paddle, or handle cause adjustments to be made to the operating parameters of the exercise device. The pairing of the exercise device and the control ring, paddle, or handle may prevent a second control ring, paddle, or handle from causing adjustments to be made to the exercise device without the exerciser's knowledge or approval.

Another safety feature of the disclosed devices/system is the emergency stop feature. An emergency stop control command may cause the exercise device to stop the movement of a movable element or resistance mechanism. An emergency stop control command may be generated as a result of an exerciser activating a button on the control ring or the handle of a paddle or strength machine. For instance, when the exerciser feels overly fatigued, loses his/her balance, or falls, the exerciser can press an emergency stop button on the control ring or the handle of the paddle or strength machine to cause the exercise device to stop the movable element or resistance mechanism. Alternatively, the emergency stop control command may be automatically generated upon a predetermined occurrence. For instance, if an exerciser falls off or leaves the exercise device, an emergency stop control command may be generated, either by the control ring, handle of the paddle or strength machine, or the exercise device, in order to stop a movable element or resistance mechanism of the exercise device.

In the case of a control ring, the control ring may be a closed loop. For instance, the body of the control ring may form a closed loop that defines an aperture extending through the ring. In other embodiments, the body and a fastener may cooperate to form a closed loop. In other embodiments, however, a control ring may not be a closed loop. Rather, a control ring may include an opening or a space between opposing ends to allow an exerciser's finger to pass therethrough in order to put the ring on the exerciser's finger.

A control ring or handle may include user input mechanisms that only adjust one operating parameter of an exercise device. For instance, the user input mechanisms may only adjust the speed of a movable element or the resistance of a resistance assembly. Alternatively, a control ring or handle may include multiple user input mechanisms that adjust multiple operating parameters of an exercise device. Alternatively still, a control ring or handle may include a single set of user input controls that adjust the operating parameters of an exercise device. In this case, the control ring or handle may include a selector that determines which operating parameters will be adjusted upon activation of the user input controls. When the selector is in one position, activation of the user input controls may adjust one operating parameter. When the selector is in another position, activation of the user input controls may adjust a different operating parameter.

While embodiments of the invention have been described in the context of a motorized treadmill, a paddling exercise device, and a strength machine, it is understood that the invention is not limited to any particular type of exercise device. Accordingly, the term “exercise device” shall refer broadly to any type of device that takes the form of an exercise machine, including, but not limited to, treadmills, exercise cycles, Nordic style ski exercise devices, rowers, steppers, hikers, climbers, and elliptical or striding exercise devices. These various types of exercise devices may include adjustable operating parameters similar to those described above (e.g., speed, incline, resistance, etc.). Accordingly, a wireless control commands may be used to adjust the operating parameters of various types of exercise devices so an exerciser does not have to manipulate controls located on the exercise device itself or have to interrupt the performance of an exercise device in order to make adjustments to the operating parameters.

Claims

1. An exercise system, comprising: a frame;a resistance mechanism associated with the frame, the resistance mechanism providing a selectively adjustable level of resistance to selectively adjust a difficulty of performing an exercise;a movable element operatively associated with the resistance mechanism, the movable element being movable to perform an exercise, the movable element comprising: a handle graspable by a user during the performance of an exercise; andone or more user input mechanisms associated with the handle, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms may be selectively activated; anda transmitter associated with the one or more user input mechanisms, wherein the transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the level of resistance of the resistance mechanism.

2. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the movable element comprises a paddle.

3. The exercise system recited in claim 2, wherein the paddle is selectively connectable to the resistance mechanism.

4. The exercise system recited in claim 3, wherein the movable element comprises a retractable cable.

5. The exercise system recited in claim 4, wherein the resistance mechanism biases the retractable cable towards a retracted position.

6. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the exercise system comprises a strength training machine.

7. The exercise system recited in claim 6, wherein the strength training machine comprises a first arm and a second arm that are selectively movable between a plurality of positions.

8. The exercise system recited in claim 6, wherein the movable element comprises the handle and a cable.

9. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a cable and pulley system.

10. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the transmitter comprises a wireless transmitter.

11. The exercise system recited in claim 10, further comprising a wireless receiver associated with the resistance mechanism.

12. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button, wherein: upon activation of the resistance increase button, the transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the resistance level of the resistance mechanism, andupon activation of the resistance decrease button, the transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

13. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the transmitter may be selectively paired with only one resistance mechanism at any given time.

14. The exercise system recited in claim 1, wherein the transmitter communicates with the resistance mechanism only when the handle is within a predetermined range of the resistance mechanism.

15. The exercise system recited in claim 1, further comprising a processor associated with the one or more user input mechanisms and the transmitter, wherein the processor generates the control command upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms.

16. A paddling exercise system, comprising: a body support;a support structure connected to the body support, the support structure including an extension member;a resistance mechanism connected to the extension member, the resistance mechanism including a retractable cable and connector connected to an end of the retractable cable, wherein the resistance mechanism is elevated relative to the body support, and wherein a resistance level provided by the resistance mechanism is selectively adjustable to change a difficulty in extending the retractable cable from the resistance mechanism;a paddle that is selectively connectable to the connector of the resistance mechanism, the paddle comprising: one or more user input mechanisms, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms may be selectively activated; anda wireless transmitter associated with the one or more user input mechanisms, wherein the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

17. The paddling exercise system of claim 16, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button, wherein: upon activation of the resistance increase button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the resistance level of the resistance mechanism, andupon activation of the resistance decrease button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the resistance level of the resistance mechanism.

18. The paddling exercise system of claim 16, further comprising a processor associated with the one or more user input mechanisms, wherein the processor generates the control commands in response to activation of the one or more user input mechanisms.

19. A strength training exercise device, comprising: a frame;a resistance mechanism connected to the frame, the resistance mechanism providing a selectively adjustable level of resistance to selectively change a difficulty of performing an exercise;a movable element connected to the resistance mechanism, the movable element being movable in the performance of an exercise, the movable element comprising: a handle;one or more user input mechanisms associated with the handle, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms may be selectively activated; anda wireless transmitter associated with the one or more user input mechanisms, wherein the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism upon activation of the one or more user input mechanisms to adjust the level of resistance of the resistance mechanism.

20. The strength training exercise device of claim 19, wherein the one or more user input mechanisms comprise a resistance increase button and a resistance decrease button, wherein: upon activation of the resistance increase button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to increase the level of resistance provided by the resistance mechanism, andupon activation of the resistance decrease button, the wireless transmitter communicates a control command to the resistance mechanism to decrease the level of resistance provided by the resistance mechanism.