FIELD
The present disclosure relates generally to an exercise system with a large-size display which is translatable and rotatable between portrait and landscape orientations.
BACKGROUND
Home fitness is becoming increasingly popular and the ability to display fitness content or connect to live, streaming fitness classes may provide additional motivation for an individual to engage in exercise. For example, such fitness content is now more readily available in the “home gym” through the ubiquitous use of personal electronic device such as smart phones and tablets, while exercising with or without the assistance of equipment (e.g., free weights or an exercise machine such as stationary bike, an elliptical or other). In the case of exercising with a machine, a video display is often provided and sometimes integrated into the console of the exercise machine. One advantage to this is that the video content can be displayed in proximity with biometric data recorded by the exercise machine to enhance the user's fitness experience. When exercising without the assistance of a machine, users typically rely on a personal electronic device such a smart phone or table for the delivery of video content, and may further supplement their workout experience with biometric data from a wearable device, such as a wearable activity tracker or smart watch, worn by the user. However having to hold or prop one's phone or tablet near the exercise area is inconvenient and further having to periodically peek at the display of a wearable device detracts from the workout, resulting in a sub-optimal user experience. Thus, designers and manufacturers of fitness equipment continue to seek ways to improve the user experience when exercising.
Furthermore, while many people use weights (e.g., dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, other free weights, etc.) for exercise, for example in the home, a user may not have sufficient space in their home to have a dedicated exercise area and it may be desirable for them to combine their “exercise area” with their living space, such as their living room, bedroom, or other room in the home that may be used to receive or entertain guests. Frequently, when viewing an exercise program or other coaching content on a display, it may be advantageous to have the display oriented in a portrait orientation (e.g., with the long dimension of the display oriented vertically). Such an orientation may facilitate a full view of the body of a trainer such that a user can emulate the trainer's movements in the course of an exercise routine. However, most displays in a user's living space are typically oriented in a landscape orientation (e.g., with the long dimension of the display horizontal) and cannot easily be switched between portrait and landscape modes. Most entertainment media is configured to be displayed on a landscape display. Also, viewing an exercise program or other coaching content on a display of sufficiently large size (e.g., a size significantly greater than a user's handheld device or a display of a typical exercise machine console) may improve the user experience. It is therefore desirable to provide an exercise or coaching system with a large-size display, which is easily movable between multiple orientations, e.g., a portrait orientation that may be more suitable for coaching mode, and landscape orientation that may be utilized in an entertainment mode.
BRIEF SUMMARY
An exercise system with a movable display is disclosed, as well as various embodiments of the display mount assembly. In one embodiment, the exercise system includes a tower, which includes a base, a front panel, and a mast that extends above the front panel. A display is coupled to the mast. The display is selectively movable (e.g., translatable up and down or forward and aft) relative to the front panel and rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation. In various embodiments, the display is prevented from rotation between the first and second orientation until the display is translated relative to the front panel. For example, the display is coupled to the mast by a display mount which supports the display in a first position, in which the display is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel prevents rotation of the display. The display is further configured to support the display, and enable moving the display to, a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to enable translating the display upward to move the display between the first and second positions thereby enabling rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to enable translating the display forward to move the display between the first and second positions thereby enabling rotation of the display.
An exercise system according to some embodiments includes a tower comprising a base, a front panel, and a mast extending above the front panel, a display coupled to the mast and selectively rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation, and a display mount coupling the display to the mast. The display mount is configured to support the display in a first position, in which the display is in the first orientation and is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel substantially prevents rotation of the display, and a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to translate the display vertically along the mast between the first and second positions. In some embodiments, the display mount comprises a plate fixed to the display, a pivot joint rotatably coupling the plate to the mast, and a carrier that translates the pivot joint, the display, and the plate along the mast. In some embodiments, the carrier is movably coupled to the mast via at least one slide comprising a first portion fixed to the mast, a second portion fixed to the carrier, and one or more bearings operatively arranged between the first and second portion to enable movement of the second portion relative to the first portion. In some embodiments, the carrier is movably coupled to the mast via a first slide coupled to a firstside of the mast and a second slide coupled to a second side of the mast opposite the first side. In some embodiments, the pivot joint comprises an axle extending rearwardly from the plate and into the carrier. In some embodiments, the pivot joint further comprises a first bearing non-rotatably coupled to the plate and a second bearing non-rotatably coupled to the carrier, wherein the first and second bearings are axially aligned via the axle and in contact with one another to define a sliding rotational interface between the first and second bearings. In some embodiments, the system includes a lift assist device having a first end coupled to the carrier and a second end coupled to the mast. In some embodiments, the system includes a guide that limits the translation and rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the guide comprises a track fixed to the plate and defining a predetermined path, and a follower engaged with the track to follow the predetermined path. In some embodiments, the system include a translation detent, a rotation detent, or both. In some embodiments, translation detent, the rotation detent, or both comprise a magnet. In some embodiments, the tower comprises a cabinet, and wherein a door of the cabinet forms part of the front panel. In some embodiments, the tower comprises a lower shroud defining an internal cavity of the cabinet. In some embodiments, the tower further comprises an upper shroud at least partially enclosing the mast and the display mount. In some embodiments, the width of the upper and lower shrouds is substantially the same thereby providing a monolithic appearance from a rear side of the tower. In some embodiments, the display is substantially as wide as the front panel when in the first orientation thereby providing a monolithic appearance from a front side of the tower. In some embodiments, the tower is a free-standing unit. In some embodiments, the display extends to a height of at least 40 inches above the front panel when in the first position. In some embodiments, the system includes an electronics assembly including a cover that forms part of the front panel. In some embodiments, the electronics include a speaker, a microphone, and a camera system. In some embodiments, the microphone is communicatively coupled to a processor, and wherein the processor is configured to change a content provided on the display responsive to a voice command detected by the microphone. In some embodiments, the camera system comprises a plurality of cameras communicatively coupled to the processor for generating a 3D image.
In some embodiments, an exercise system includes a tower including a base, a front panel, and a mast extending above the front panel; and a display coupled to the mast. The display is selectively movable relative to the front panel and rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation. A display mount coupling the display to the mast and is configured to support the display in a first position, in which the display is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel prevents rotation of the display, and a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation.
Any of the features of the various embodiments described herein may be used in any combination with any other feature herein. Additional aspects, features, and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description.
An exercise system with a movable display is disclosed, as well as various embodiments of the display mount assembly. In one embodiment, the exercise system includes a tower, which includes a base, a front panel, and a mast that extends above the front panel. A display is coupled to the mast. The display is selectively movable (e.g., translatable up and down or forward and aft) relative to the front panel and rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation. In various embodiments, the display is prevented from rotation between the first and second orientation until the display is translated relative to the front panel. For example, the display is coupled to the mast by a display mount which supports the display in a first position, in which the display is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel prevents rotation of the display. The display is further configured to support the display, and enable moving the display to, a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to enable translating the display upward to move the display between the first and second positions thereby enabling rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to enable translating the display forward to move the display between the first and second positions thereby enabling rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mount is configured to couple the translation and rotation motion of the display. For example, the display mount is configured, in some embodiments, such that actuation (e.g., by the user or through electronic command) of the display for translation (e.g., upward and/or forward) causes rotation of the display.
In one embodiment, an exercise system includes a tower including a base, a front panel, and a mast extending above the front panel; and a display coupled to the mast. The display is selectively movable relative to the front panel and rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation. A display mount coupling the display to the mast and is configured to support the display in a first position, in which the display is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel prevents rotation of the display, and a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation.
In one embodiment, an exercise system includes: a tower including a base, a front panel, and a mast extending above the front panel; a display coupled to the mast, wherein the display is selectively movable relative to the front panel and rotatable between a first orientation and a second orientation; and a display mount coupling the display to the mast and configured to support the display in a first position, in which the display is adjacent to the front panel such that the front panel prevents rotation of the display, and a second position in which the display is rotatable from the first orientation to the second orientation.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the front panel is fixed relative to the base.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the front panel is pivotable relative to the base.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the front panel includes a door of a cabinet supported by the base.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the tower is a free-standing unit.
Optionally, in some embodiments, a lower edge of the display is adjacent to an upper edge of the front panel when the display is in the first position and wherein the display mount is configured to translate the display vertically to a second position in which the lower edge of the display is spaced apart from the upper edge of the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, a front side of the display is substantially flush with a front surface of the front panel in both the first and second positions of the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display mount is configured to translate the display horizontally to move the display between the first and second positions.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display has a length of at least 40 inches and wherein the display mount includes a lift assist device supporting at least a portion of a weight of the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display has a length greater than a width of the display, wherein the first orientation is a portrait orientation in which the display is oriented with its length extending substantially vertically and wherein the second orientation is a landscape orientation in which the display is oriented with its width extending substantially vertically.
Optionally, in some embodiments, a rear surface of the display is aft of a front surface of the front panel when the display is in the first position and the rear surface of the display is forward of the front surface when the display is in the second position.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display mount is configured such that one of the movement of the display between the first and second positions causes and rotation of the display causes the other one of the movement of the display between the first and second positions causes and rotation of the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display mount includes a plate fixed to the display, a carrier slidably coupled to the mast, and a pivot joint pivotally connecting the plate to the carrier.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the carrier is slidably coupled to the mast via a pair of slides including a first slide on one side of the mast and a second slide on an opposite side of the mast, wherein each of the first and second slides includes a first portion fixed to the mast and a second portion fixed to the carrier, the first and second portions being movably coupled via one or more rollers or bushings operatively arranged between the first and second portion of each of the slides.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display mount further includes a lift assist device having a first end fixed to the carrier and a second end fixed to the mast.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the exercise system includes a first sliding detent and a second sliding detent at respective first and second spaced apart locations along a length of the mast, each of the first and second sliding detents configured to resist the movement of the display relative to the mast.
Optionally, in some embodiments, rotation of the pivot joint is limited by first and second rotational stops, the display mount further including a first rotational detent and a second rotational detent configured to resist the rotation of the display relative to the mast.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the pivot joint includes a collar having a flange that extends radially outward from the collar, and wherein the flange is arranged to move between the first and second stops when the display is rotated between the first and second orientations.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the pivot joint further includes a first bushing axially aligned and non-rotatably coupled to the collar and a second bushing axially aligned to the collar and non-rotatably coupled to the carrier, the pivot joint including a sliding interface between the first bushing and the second bushing.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the exercise system includes a rotational detent and a second rotational detent configured to retain the display in the first and second orientations, respectively.
In some embodiments, a fitness coaching system includes: a free-standing frame; a glass pane supported on the frame, wherein at least a portion of the glass pane is reflective to provide a mirror; and a display covered by the glass pane to provide, together with the mirror, a unitary coaching panel, wherein the coaching panel is movably coupled to the frame for adjusting a viewing angle associated with the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display does not overlap the mirror.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display and the mirror overlap at least partially.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the mirror fully overlaps the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the coaching panel is pivotable about a tilt axis extending between lateral sides of the frame.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the coaching panel is pivotable about multiple axes for adjusting a horizontal and a vertical viewing angle.
In some embodiments, a fitness coaching system includes a free-standing frame; a display coupled to the frame; and a mirror coupled to the frame independently of the display.
Optionally, in some embodiments, at least one of the display and the mirror is movable relative to the frame independent of the other one of the display and the mirror.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the display is movable to a position to at least partially overlap the mirror.
Optionally, in some embodiments, the mirror is movable to a position to at least partially overlap the mirror.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of an example exercise system in a first configuration in which the display is in the lowered position and in the portrait orientation.
FIG. 1B is a front elevation view of the exercise system of FIG. 1A in a second configuration in which the display is in the portrait orientation but in an elevated position.
FIG. 1C is a front elevation view of the exercise system of FIG. 1A in a third configuration in which the display is has been rotated to the portrait orientation following the provision of the display in the configuration shown in FIG. 1B.
FIG. 2A is a partial phantom view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 2B is a partially exploded view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2C is a partially exploded front view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2D is a partially exploded rear view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2E is a detailed exploded view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A.
FIG. 2F is a section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 1A, taken along line 2F-2F of FIG. 2G.
FIG. 2G is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 1A.
FIG. 2H is a section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 1B, taken along line 2H-2H of FIG. 2I.
FIG. 2I is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 1B.
FIG. 2J is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 2A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 1C.
FIG. 3 is a front isometric view of an example system according to the present disclosure.
FIG. 4 is a rear isometric view of the system of FIG. 3.
FIGS. 5A-5C are front elevation views of the system of FIG. 3 shown in three different configurations.
FIG. 6 is a front isometric partial enlarged view of a lower portion of the system of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 7 is a front elevation partial enlarged view of a middle portion of the system of FIG. 5C.
FIG. 8A is a side elevation view of the system of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 8B is a side elevation partial enlarged view of the portion indicated by line 8b-8b in FIG. 8A.
FIG. 9A is a top view of the system of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 9B is a rear view of the system of FIG. 5A.
FIG. 10 is a rear isometric partial view of the system of FIG. 3 with at least some of the shroud removed to expose portions of the frame and display mount.
FIG. 11 is a partially exploded view of the upper portion of the system of FIG. 3, showing the display assembly separated from the mast.
FIG. 12 is an isometric view showing a portion of the mast and display mount of the system of FIG. 3.
FIG. 13 is a front isometric exploded view of the upper portion of the tower of the system of FIG. 3.
FIG. 14A is a partial view of the upper portion of the system of FIG. 3, sectioned vertically through the pivot joint.
FIG. 14B shows the same section as shown in FIG. 14A, viewed from a rear isometric perspective, in which the display is partially rotated relative to the non-moving frame to illustrate components of the pivot joint.
FIG. 15 is a partial rear view of the display assembly of the system of FIG. 3 illustrating components thereof.
FIG. 16A-C are partial rear views of the system in the different configurations shown in FIGS. 5A-5C, respectively, each sectioned vertically through the mast to show the relative position of the guide and follower as the system is adjusted to each of the three configurations shown in FIGS. 5A-5C.
FIG. 17 is a block diagram of electronic components of an exercise system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.
FIG. 18A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 18B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 18A taken along line 18B-18B of FIG. 18A.
FIG. 19A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 19B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 19A taken along line 19B-19B of FIG. 19A.
FIG. 20A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 20B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 20A taken along line 20B-20B of FIG. 20A.
FIG. 20C is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 20D is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 20C taken along line 20D-20D of FIG. 20C.
FIG. 21A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 21B is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 21A.
FIG. 21C is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 21A.
FIG. 21D is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 21A.
FIG. 22A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 22B is a partial section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 22A taken along line 22B-22B of FIG. 22A.
FIG. 23A is a partial perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 23B is a perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 23A in a second configuration.
FIG. 23C is a perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 23A in a third configuration.
FIG. 24A is an partially exploded perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 24B is a section view of a portion of the exercise media display system of FIG. 24A taken along line 24B-24B of FIG. 24A.
FIG. 25A is a section view of a portion of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 25B is a section view of a portion of the exercise media display system of FIG. 25A taken along section 25B-25B of FIG. 25A.
FIG. 26A is a partially exploded perspective view of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 26B is a partial section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 26A taken along line 26B-26B of FIG. 26A.
FIG. 27 is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 28A is an elevation view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 28B is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 28A in a second configuration.
FIG. 28C is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 28A in a third configuration.
FIG. 29A is an elevation view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 29B is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 29A in a second configuration.
FIG. 29C is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 29A in a third configuration.
FIG. 30A is a partial phantom view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 30B is a partially exploded view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A.
FIG. 30C is a partially exploded front view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A.
FIG. 30D is a partially exploded rear view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A.
FIG. 30E is a detailed exploded view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A.
FIG. 30F is a section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 29A, taken along line 30F-30F of FIG. 30G.
FIG. 30G is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 29A.
FIG. 30H is a section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 29B, taken along line 30H-30H of FIG. 30I.
FIG. 30I is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 29B.
FIG. 30J is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 30A in the configuration of the exercise media display system shown in FIG. 29C.
FIG. 31A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 31B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 31A taken along line 31B-31B of FIG. 31A.
FIG. 32A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 32B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 32A taken along line 32B-32B of FIG. 32A.
FIG. 33A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 33B is a partial section perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 33A taken along line 33B-33B of FIG. 33A.
FIG. 33C is a perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 33A in a second configuration.
FIG. 33D is another partial section perspective view similar to the one shown in FIG. 33B but showing the display mount in the extended position.
FIG. 34A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 34B is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 34A.
FIG. 34C is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 34A.
FIG. 34D is a partial perspective view the exercise media display system of FIG. 34A.
FIG. 35A is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 35B is a partial section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 35A taken along line 35B-35B of FIG. 35A.
FIG. 36A is a partial perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 36B is a perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 36A in a second configuration.
FIG. 36C is a perspective view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 36A in a third configuration.
FIG. 37A is a partial perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 37B is a section view of a portion of the exercise media display system of FIG. 37A taken along line 37B-37B of FIG. 37A.
FIG. 38A is a section view of a portion of an example of an exercise media display system.
FIG. 38B is a section view of a portion of the exercise media display system of FIG. 38A taken along section 38B-38B of FIG. 38A.
FIG. 39A is a partially exploded perspective view of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 39B is a partial section view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 39A taken along line 39B-39B of FIG. 39A.
FIG. 40 is a perspective view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 41A is an elevation view of an example of an exercise media display system in a first configuration.
FIG. 41B is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 41B in a second configuration.
FIG. 41C is an elevation view of the exercise media display system of FIG. 41B in a third configuration.
FIGS. 42A and 42B are isometric views of a fitness coaching system according to some examples the present disclosure.
FIGS. 42C and 42D are front views of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 42A.
FIGS. 43A and 43B are isometric views of a fitness coaching system according to further examples of the present disclosure.
FIGS. 43C-43E are front views of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 43A.
FIGS. 44A and 44B are isometric views of a fitness coaching system according to yet further examples of the present disclosure.
FIG. 45A is a front view of a fitness coaching system according to the present disclosure.
FIGS. 45B-45D are side views of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 45A.
FIGS. 45E-45G are top views of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 45A.
FIG. 46A shows a view of a fitness coaching system according to further examples herein.
FIG. 46B shows an example mount for the display of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 46A.
FIG. 47 shows a side simplified view of a fitness coaching system and mounts pivotally coupling panels of the fitness coaching system according to some examples herein.
FIG. 48A shows a front view of a fitness coaching system having a stowed configuration in which the mirror panel at least partially conceals the display.
FIG. 48B shows a side view of the fitness coaching system in FIG. 48A.
FIG. 48C shows a front view of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 48A, shown here in a deployed configuration.
FIG. 48D shows a side view of the fitness coaching system in FIG. 48C.
FIGS. 48E-48G are side views of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 48C, with the display and mirror in different positions.
FIGS. 49A and 49B show top and front views, respectively, of a fitness coaching system in a stowed configuration.
FIGS. 49C and 49D show top and front views, respectively, of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 49A in a first deployed configuration.
FIGS. 49E and 49F show top and front views, respectively, of the fitness coaching system of FIG. 49A in a second deployed configuration, in which the mirror panel is located behind a plane of the display to enable rotation of the display from portrait to landscape mode.
FIG. 50 shows a fitness coaching platform having a display and mirror in a side-by-side configuration.
FIGS. 51A-51D show a fitness coaching platform having a large-size rotatable coaching panel and a weights-storage compartment integrated into a free-standing unit, with the coaching panel shown in different states and positions.
One or more of the drawings may not be to scale. In certain instances, details unnecessary for understanding the disclosure or rendering other details difficult to perceive may have been simplified or omitted. In the appended drawings, similar components and/or features may have the same reference label. The claimed subject matter is not necessarily limited to the particular examples or arrangements illustrated herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
The description of certain embodiments included herein is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the scope of the disclosure or its applications or uses. In the included detailed description of embodiments of the present systems and methods, reference is made to the accompanying drawings which form a part hereof, and which are shown by way of illustration specific to embodiments in which the described systems and methods may be practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice presently disclosed systems and methods, and it is to be understood that other embodiments may be utilized, and that structural and logical changes may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, for the purpose of clarity, detailed descriptions of certain features will not be discussed when they would be apparent to those with skill in the art so as not to obscure the description of embodiments of the disclosure. The included detailed description is therefore not to be taken in a limiting sense, and the scope of the disclosure is defined only by the appended claims.
The present disclosure pertains to an exercise system having a large-size display (also referred to as a coaching system or platform), the display being selectively rotatable between at least two rotational positions (or orientations), such as a portrait orientation and a landscape orientation. The exercise system includes a tower which has a base, a front panel, and a mast extending to a height above the front panel. The exercise system further includes a display selectively rotatably mounted to the mast via a display mount. The display mount is configured to support the large-size display in a first elevation or vertical position in which the display is adjacent to the front panel. The first elevation or vertical position may also be referred to as the lowered position. The display need not be in contact with the front panel to be considered adjacent thereto. In this first vertical position, rotation of the display is substantially prevented by the front panel. The display mount is further configured to enable translation of the display relative to the front panel, e.g., vertically, in response to the application of external force such as manipulation by the user or actuation by mechanical means, to a second elevation or vertical position, in which rotation of the display is not prevented by the front panel. The display mount is configured to stably support the display (e.g., its weight) in both vertical positions and the intermediate positions as the display is translated along the mast, as well as to stably support the display through its range of rotation (e.g., between the first and second orientations).
FIGS. 1A-1C show front perspective views of an exercise system 100 according to the present disclosure. The exercise system 100 includes a tower 103 having a base 104. The base 104 supports the exercise system (e.g., tower 103) on a support surface such as the ground or floor. In various embodiments, the base 104 is configured to support the system 100 as a free-standing unit. That is, in such embodiments the base is configured to stably supported the exercise system on a support surface such as the ground without requiring additional support of the tower, e.g., by leaning against or fixing it to a wall. In some embodiments, optional one or more brackets may be provided to additionally secure the free-standing unit to the building's structure (e.g., a wall). The tower 103 further includes a front façade or panel 116 and a mast 106, which supports a display 102. The front panel 116 may be fixed to the base 104 or it may be movably (e.g., slidably and/or pivotally) coupled thereto. For example, the front panel 116 may be a door of a cabinet, the door configured to pivot or otherwise move between its closed and open positions. In some embodiments, the front panel 116 may be a fixed housing that conceals part of the tower's frame (e.g., a portion of the base and/or mast). In various embodiments, the front panel 116 may provide an aesthetically pleasing (e.g., a seamless) look on the front side of the tower 103. The display 102 is mounted to the tower 103 at a suitable vertical position, e.g., so as to be comfortable for viewing by a user in a standing position. For example, the display 102 may be supported by the tower (e.g., by an upright support or mast 106 of the tower 103) at a height or vertical position that locates the display 102 (e.g., the lower edge of the display) above the front panel 116 (e.g., above an upper edge of the front panel 116). In use, the exercise system 100 may display any desired video content, for example a live session with a trainer or a pre-recorded video in which a trainer demonstrates an exercise. The demonstrated exercise may, or may not, make use of the one or more exercise weights. In some embodiments, the display is a large size display (e.g., a 43 inch display). This can be advantageous as it can provide a nearly life-size exercise demonstration to the user and/or allowing the user to be a substantial distance away from the display while performing exercise and still be able to comfortably and clearly view the exercise demonstration. The display may display virtually any content, whether related or unrelated to exercise. For example, when not in use for exercise, the display 102 may display a screen saver (e.g., a digital display of a dial clock or clock of user-selected format, or a decorative image or other audio-visual content unrelated to exercise. In some embodiments, the display may have a width (in at least one position of the display) that is substantially the same as the width of the front panel 116, which may further enhance the aesthetics of the exercise system. In some embodiments, the width of the display (e.g., in the portrait orientation) may substantially define the overall width of the tower.
The display 102 is movable relative to the front panel 116 (e.g., translatable, such as by sliding, relative to the mast) between a first position and a second position. In the first position the display 102 is adjacent to the front panel, which substantially prevents rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display is adjacent in that the lower edge of the display is substantially against, optionally but not necessarily in contact with, the upper edge of the front panel. The front panel 116 thus prevents rotation of the display 102 when in the first position. The display is movable to a second position in which rotation of the display is not prevented by the front panel 116. For example, the display may be translatable in the vertical direction to a position in which the display is vertically higher above the front panel 116 than in the first position. In some embodiments, the display may be translatable in the horizontal direction, to a position in which the display is forward of the front panel 116 whereby rotation of the display 102 is enabled despite the display remaining at substantially the same vertical position with respect to the front panel as in the first position. In some embodiments, the translation and rotation of the display is effected simultaneously, for example when the user applies a force to rotate the display the display mount causes the display to also translate relative to the front panel.
The display is supported on the tower 103 by a display mount which is configured to enable the display 102 to be selectively (e.g., responsive to user force) rotated relative to the front panel 116. As described herein, the display 102 is rotatable only when the display is in the second position. In the first position, the display 102 is adjacent to, although not necessarily in contact with, the front panel 116 such that the front panel substantially prevents rotation of the display 102. In some embodiments, the display is adjacent to the front panel in the first position in that the display's lower edge is just above the upper edge of the front panel, which prevents rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the front face of the display may also be substantially flush with a front face of the panel providing a substantially flush (or monolithic) appearance at the front side of the tower, which can provide, among other things, an aesthetic advantage. In some embodiments, moving (e.g., translating such as by sliding) the display relative to the front panel between the first and second positions maintains this flush relationship of the front faces of the display and the front panel. For example, in some embodiments, the display is translated up along the mast thereby providing the lower edge of the display in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the front panel, while maintaining the front faces of the display and panel substantially flush. In some embodiments, the rear side of the display is aft of the front face of the panel 116 when in the first position, and the movement (e.g., slidably translating) of the display relative to the mast and front panel to the second position provides the rear side of the display forward of the front panel, enabling rotation of the display. In some such embodiments, when the display is in the second position, the display may remain at substantially the same vertical position. Moving the display from the first position to the second position relative to the front panel, enables the display to be rotated between different orientations (e.g., portrait and landscape, as shown respectively in FIGS. 1A and 1C) which may provide a more suitable orientation for displaying different types of content. The display may be configured for operation in a plurality of different orientations, such as landscape orientation and portrait orientation. In some embodiments, the display of the coaching platform may be sufficiently large to enable viewing of the content from a distance, such as from at least a foot or multiple feet away from the display, which can provide sufficient freedom of movement for the user while performing an exercise. In some embodiments, the display may have an active area (i.e., the area that displays images) sized at about 21 inches by about 37 inches. In some embodiments, the display may have an active area of about 12 inches by about 20 inches. In some embodiments, the display mast may extend from about 20 inches to about 37 inches or more above the height of the front panel of the tower.).
FIGS. 2A-2J show views of one embodiment of a display mount assembly (or simply display mount) 200 for an exercise system according to the present disclosure, The display mount assembly 200 may be used to implement the display mount coupling the display 102 to the mast 106 of the system 100 in FIG. 1. The display mount 200 is configured to enable translation of the display 102 between the first and second positions, in this case a lowered and elevated positions, respectively. The display mount 200 also enables rotation of the display 102 between the first (e.g., portrait) and second (e.g., landscape) orientations. In various embodiments, the display mount may include a first structure coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display and defining a rotational axis of the display. This first structure forms a part of the pivot joint between the display and the mast. The display mount may further include a second structure movably coupled to the mast. This second structure also includes components that form part of the rotation joint, and further includes components that enable movement (e.g., translation) of the first structure and display relative to the mast, and consequently the rest of the tower.
In the embodiment in FIGS. 2A-2J, the display mount 200 includes a mounting plate (or simply plate) 218, which may be fixed to the rear side of the display 102. In some embodiments, the plate 218 may be movably coupled to the rear side of the display such as to enable tilting of the display, e.g., for adjusting the viewing angle. The display mount 200 further includes a carriage assembly (or simply carriage) 220, which includes a carrier 236 configured to selectively (e.g., responsive to an applied force) translate along the mast, such as to move the mounting plate 218 and display between the first, in this case the lower, vertical position, and the second, in this case the elevated, vertical position. Movement of the display 102 in the vertical direction may be limited by one or more suitable components. For example, the mast 106 may include a bracket 246 that acts as an upper limit on movement of the display 102 in the translation direction 108. In the downward direction, movement of the display may be limited by a similar bracket operatively positioned on the mast below the bracket 246 and/or by one or more other components of the assembly (e.g., the lift assist device 248, the bottom edge of slot 244 which engages the protruding portion of fastener 224, etc.). Any suitable combination of components may be used to limit translation of the display.
A rotational interface is defined between the mounting plate 218 and the carrier 236, and this rotational interface is configured to move up and down as result of the movement of the carrier along the mast. In other embodiments, the carrier may be configured to move in a different direction, such as forward and aft (e.g., parallel to the rotational axis) whereby the rotational interface also moves forward and aft. The mounting plate 218 includes an aperture 219 (see FIG. 2C). The aperture 219 may be centrally located on the plate 218 and is sized (e.g., has a diameter) to accommodate fastener 224, which couples the display to the mast and which also defines the rotation axis A of the display (see FIG. 2A). When assembled, the rotation axis A generally coincides with the center of aperture 219. In use (e.g., when changing the orientation of the display 102), the display rotates about rotation axis A. In this embodiment, the display is configured to move upward, and consequently the rotation axis A moves upward, relative to the stationary frame (e.g., front panel) to enable rotation of the display.
A collar 226 is fixed (e.g., welded) to the rear side of the mounting plate 218. The collar 226 defines a stepped through-aperture, which enables the fastener 224 to be inserted into the collar from the front side of the plate 218 and be accommodated, at least partially within the collar 226. The fastener 224 (also referred to herein as carriage bolt 224) is retained in the collar 226 by virtue of the narrower aperture on the rear side of the collar. The collar 226 has a substantially cylindrical side wall 286 and an end wall 288, which defines the narrower aperture 266 of the collar 226. The walls 286 and 288 thus form a recess 290 within the interior of the collar 226. The recess 290 is sized to accommodate one side of the fastener 224, e.g., the head 292 of the fastener 224. The aperture 266 defined by the wall 288, which is a through aperture extending through the wall 288 is sized to prevent the fastener, e.g., when suitably assembled with a washer 238, to pass through. A sliding rotational interface 282 (see e.g., FIG. 2E) is provided between the rear side of the collar 226 and the carriage assembly 220. For example, a first bushing (also referred to as display bushing) 230 is provided between the rear side of the collar 226 and the carrier 236. The bushing 230 may be non-rotatably associated with (e.g., keyed to) the collar 226 so that the bushing moves (e.g., rotates) when the display assembly, including the mounting plate and collar, is rotated. The bushing may be non-rotatably associated with the collar 226 such as by engaging a keyway 262 of the collar. The keyway 262 in the illustrated example extends along the end wall 288, radially outward from the edge of the aperture 266 and is sized to receive the key 264 of the bushing 230 thereby non-rotatably coupling the bushing 230. The bushing 230, when operatively assembled into the pivot joint of the display mount, thereby rotates in unison with the mounting plate 218.
As previously noted, the carriage assembly 220 may include a carrier 236. The carrier 236 in this example is implemented by a U-shaped bracket that wraps, at least partially, around the mast 106, which in this example is shown as a substantially rectangular tube. In other embodiments, the carrier 236 may have a different geometry, such as in the case of a circular/cylindrical mast. The carrier 236 is coupled to the mast 106 by the one or more slides 242. The slides 242 may be disposed on opposite sides of the mast 106 from one another. Each slide 242 may have a first portion 250 that is fixedly coupled to the mast 106 and a second portion 252 fixedly coupled to the carrier 236. The first portion 250 and the second portion 252 may be slidably coupled to one another, such as by a bearing, bushing or any other suitable rolling or sliding coupling element. When actuated, the second portion 252 may translate in a translation direction 108 with respect to the first portion 250 which remains fixed to the mast. As the second portion 252 translates, it translates certain other components of the carriage assembly 220 (e.g., the carrier 236), and consequently the mounting plate 218 and the display 102 whereby the display is selectively movable in the translation direction 108 with respect to the tower (e.g., mast 106). The carrier 236 defines an aperture 271 with a diameter greater than that of the fastener 224. When assembled, the fastener 224 extends from the mounting plate 218 into the carrier 236 (via the aperture 271) thus operatively coupling the display to the carriage assembly 220.
The carrier 236 may be operatively associated with a lift assist device 248. The lift assist device 248 may be a passive device configured to support, at least partially, the weight of the display assembly, such as to aid the user while lifting the assembly to the elevated position. For example, the lift assist device 248 may be provided by a gas spring or other type pneumatic, hydraulic and/or mechanical shock absorber. This may be particularly advantageous in embodiments of the system that include a large-size display (e.g., a display having a height of 30 inches or more). In some embodiments, the lift assist device 248 may include any suitable actuator, e.g., a linear actuator, which may be optionally powered such as by a servo or other motor, and which may optionally be actuated responsive to electronic command. The lift assist device 248 in the present illustrated example is provided by a gas spring arranged to support, at least partially, the weight of the display as the display 102 is translated in the translation direction 108. The lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 248 is oriented substantially vertically, with one end thereof coupled to the carrier 236 and at the other end to the mast 106 (e.g., to gas spring bracket 254, which is fixed to the mast 106). In a compressed state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 2F), the lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 248 may impart an upward force that tends to bias the display 102 upward relative to the mast 106, such as to ease the raising of the display 102. In the uncompressed state, the lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 248 may act as a damper or shock absorber when the display is lowered (in a direction opposite 208) to prevent damage of the display or other components of the tower as may be caused by a sudden drop of the display downward. The display mount assembly further includes one or more detents which resist the movement of the display in translation direction 108, thus resisting the force of the gas spring. The display mount assembly may further include one or more detents which resist rotation of the display, as described further below.
The display mount 200 is configured to support or position the display 102 in at least two vertical positions, a first (e.g., lowered) position in which rotation of the display is prevented, and a second (e.g., elevated) position in which rotation of the display is not inhibited by the front panel of the tower. In some embodiments, the display 102 may be adjustable to a plurality of vertical positions, in at least one of which rotation of the display is not inhibited by the front panel of the tower. To that end, the carrier 236 includes one or more positioners such as first ball spring 284 arranged to selectively engage (e.g., by being received in) one of a plurality of detents (e.g., the detents 260a/b along the length of the mast) in order to arrest or hold the display in one of the two positions (e.g., the lowered and elevated positions). When the display 102 is translated along the mast, its movement is arrested by the detents at one of the two positions. The detents hold the display in that position until the display is again actuated (by the application of force) to translate it along the mast. In some embodiments, actuation of the display may be by manual force, or it may be applied electronically (e.g., by a servo operatively associated with the lift assist device 248).
The carrier 236 may include one or more limiters 276a/b that cooperate with a corresponding limiter structure (e.g., flange 228 of the collar 226) to limit the movement of the display 102 in the rotation direction 110. In the illustrated example, the collar 226 includes a flange 228 extending radially outward from the side wall 286 thereof. The flange 228 cooperates with rotational stops or limiters 276a/276b and/or 278a/278b on the carrier 236 to limit the rotation of the display 102. Any other suitable cooperating structures may be used to limit the rotation of the display 102. One or both of the limiters 276a/b may be provided with a respective bumper 278a/b to dampen or soften impact or contact between the flange 228 and the carrier 236. The limiters 276a/b may be disposed at two different angular locations around the aperture 271 to define the rotational range of the display. For example, the limiter 276a may be angularly offset from the limiter 276b by an angle of about 90 degrees. The bumpers 278a/b may face one another within the offset angle of the limiters 276a/b. In another embodiment, the bumpers are provided on the opposing faces of the flange 228. The flange 228 is positioned between the limiters 276a/b and/or bumpers 278a/b and is substantially free to rotate, as the display is rotated, within the angular range defined by the limiters 276a/b. Thus, the flange 228, the limiters 276a/and/or bumpers 278a/b may limit the movement of the display 102 along the rotation direction 110.
The display mount 200 is configured to support or position the display 102 in at least two rotational positions (e.g., the portrait and landscape positions). The mounting plate 218 may have one or more apertures or detents (e.g., detents 222a/b) formed therein and suitable to bias the display 102 in one or more respective rotational positions. To that end, the carrier 236 includes one or more positioners such as a first ball spring 280 arranged to selectively engage (e.g., be received in) one or a plurality of detents (e.g., detents 222a/b arrayed around the aperture 219 formed in the mounting plate 218. When the display 102 is rotated about the aperture 219, its rotation is arrested by the receipt of the positioner 280 in one of the detents 222a/b. In some embodiments, the actuation of the display may be by manual force, or it may be applied electronically (e.g., by a servo operatively associated with the actuator 248). As described, fastener 224, which may be operatively used with one or more washer 238 and nut 240, couples the mounting plate 218 to the mast 106 via the carriage assembly 220. In some embodiments, the fastener 224 and/or one or more other components of the assembly may extend beyond the rear side of the carrier 236 which faces the mast. A slot 244 may be provided in the mast 106 to accommodate any protruding components and thus allow the mounting plate, fastener and associated components to move along the length of the mast unobstructed.
In use, as the display 102 is rotated, the display assembly, which includes the mounting plate 218, the collar 226 and the first bushing 230, slidably rotate, at the rotational interface 282, relative to the carrier 236 and components fixed thereto, which may include a second (or carrier) bushing 234. A second bushing 234 may be provided on the carrier side of the display mount and form part of the rotational interface 282. The second bushing (also referred to as carrier bushing) 234 is non-rotatably coupled to the carrier 236. Any suitable means for non-rotatably coupling bushing 234 to the carrier 236 may be used, such as by having the bushing 234 be keyed to the carrier 236, such as by engagement of a key of the bushing with a keyway of the carrier 236 (e.g., provided on ring 232 fixed to carrier 236 coaxially with the aperture 271). In other embodiments, the locations of the key and keyway may be reversed. In this manner, the bushing 234 may be non-rotatably and coaxially retained to the aperture 271 that receives the fastener 224. The bushing 234 remains in a fixed position relative to the carrier 236 when the display is rotated. The bushing 234 may be retained to the carrier 236 by a ring 232 fixed (e.g., welded) to the carrier or other suitable structure. The ring 232 defines an aperture 270 which is smaller than the outer diameter of the bushing 234. An annular protrusion of the bushing 234 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of aperture 270 such that the protrusion of the bushing extends through the aperture 270 to provide, at least partially, the carrier-side of the sliding rotational interface 282. The bushing 234 also defines a through passage, having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the nut 240 and/or optional one or more washers 238, such that the fastener 224 can be secured to the carriage assembly, with the bushings 230 and 234 retained between the plate 218 and nut 240. Other suitable rotational interfaces and components (e.g., an axle in cooperation with one or more bearings) may be used in other embodiments.
In FIG. 2F, the display 102 is in the lowered position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1A). The ball spring 284 engages the detent 260a to retain the display 102 in the lowered position. To move the display 102 to the elevated position, the user (or an actuator) exerts sufficient force to overcome the retention force (e.g., biasing force of the ball spring 284) thereby releasing the carrier from engagement with detent 260a allowing the display to move up in the translation direction 108. As the display 102 translates relative to the mast, the first portions 250 of the slides 242 are fixed, and thus remaining stationary, relative to the mast 106 while the second portions 252 of the slides 242, which are fixed to the carrier, translate together with the carrier along the mast 106 until the ball spring 284 engages another detent (e.g., detent 260b of the elevated position, as shown for example in FIG. 2H). At the elevated position, the ball spring 284 engages with (e.g., is received in) the detent 260b to retain the display in the elevated position. Once elevated, the display 102 can then be rotated relative to the mast 106 and other components of the tower 103 (e.g., front panel 116), as shown for example in FIG. 1C, without the tower (e.g., front panel 116) interfering with the rotation of the display. As the display is rotated, the ball spring 280 coupled to the carrier 236 shifts from engagement with the first detent 222a into and engagement with the second detent 222b to retain the display 102 in the landscape orientation. As described, when the display 102 is rotated to the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown by rotation direction 110) or vice versa, the display bushing 230 slides against the carrier bushing 234 and/or the forward-most surface of the carrier, in this example provided by the front side of the ring 232 providing the sliding rotational interface. A rotational force sufficient to overcome the bias of the interface of the detent 222a/b and the ball spring 284 may be applied (e.g., by manual force, or through electro-mechanical actuation) to the display 102 to cause the display 102 to rotate along the rotation direction 110 between the portrait position and the landscape position and vice versa.
In various embodiments, an exercise system includes a display supported above a support surface by a mast. A carriage assembly is coupled to the display and configured to enable the display to be moved between a portrait orientation and an landscape orientation. The carriage assembly includes a carrier slidably coupled to the mast, a display mounting plate fixedly coupled to the display and rotatably coupled to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carrier is slidably coupled to the mast by a first slide and a second slide disposed on opposite sides of the mast. The carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a translation direction. The rotatable coupling of the display mounting plate and the carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a rotation direction, as the display moves between the portrait orientation and the landscape orientation. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly defines a first aperture configured to receive a fastener for coupling the display to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly further includes a bushing non-rotatably coupled to the carrier. The bushing may be non-rotatably coupled by cooperative engagement of a key of the bushing engaging a keyway, e.g., formed in an edge of the first aperture. In some embodiments, another bushing is non-rotatably coupled to the display mounting plate, and a rotational interface is defined, by the pair of bushings, between the display and the carrier. In some embodiments, the rotational interface comprises a sliding interface wherein opposing surfaces of the pair of bushings slide against each other when the display rotates. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly includes an actuator that assists the motion of the display in the translation direction. In some embodiments, the actuator is coupled at a first end to the carrier and at a second end to the mast. In some embodiments, the collar includes a flange extending radially from a sidewall thereof and arranged to cooperate with first and second shelves fixed to the carrier to limit rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mounting plate includes a first detent and a second detent, and the carrier includes a positioner configured to alternatively engage the first detent and the second detent when the display is in the respective one of the first or second positions, to retain the display in the respective one of the first and second positions.
FIGS. 3-16
c show various views of an exercise system 3000 according to the present disclosure. The exercise system 3000 includes a tower 3003 having a base 3004 and an upright frame 3009 (se e.g., FIG. 10) extending from the base 3004. The upright frame 3009 supports a display 3002 which is selectively movable relative to the frame 3009. The base 3004 supports the exercise system (e.g., tower 3003) on a support surface such as the ground or floor. In various embodiments, the base 3004 is configured to support the system 3000 (e.g., tower 3003) as a free-standing unit. In such embodiments, the base 3004 is configured to stably supported the exercise system 3000 (e.g., tower 3003) on the support surface, irrespective of the position of the display 3002 without needing additional support (e.g., leaning it against or fixing the tower to a wall). For example, the base 3004 may have a sufficient length LB (e.g., extend a sufficient distance forward and/or aft of the mid-plane of the system 3000) to react the increased tipping force on the tower as the center of gravity shifts upward when the display is raised (or elevated). In some embodiments, the base 3004 is substantially as wide (WB) as the tower 3003, which may provide an aesthetically pleasing look and/or a minimal foot print while still providing a stable base for the system 3000. It is envisioned, however, that in some embodiments, one or more brackets or other fixing structures may be provided to additionally secure the tower 3003 to the building's structure (e.g., a wall).
The tower 3003 may include a housing or enclosure 3005 which at least partially encloses or conceals certain components of the exercise system 3000, e.g., at least a portion of the upright frame 3009 and display mount 3007, which may enhance the aesthetics of the exercise system 3000. For example, the exercise system 3000 (e.g., tower 3003) includes a front panel 3016, which may form part of the enclosure 3005. The front panel 3016 may conceal at least a portion of the lower frame of the tower 3003. In some embodiments, the enclosure 3005 may define an internal cavity that functions as a storage compartment or cabinet 3011. The cabinet 3011 may be provided at any suitable location, for example near the base 3004 of the tower 3003, at an elevation between the display 3002 and the base 3004. In the example in FIG. 3, a door 3013 of the cabinet 3011 forms part of the front panel 3016 of the enclosure 3005. The cabinet 3011 may be sized to internally accommodate internally (e.g., in a substantially enclosed or concealed manner) one or more exercise accessories 3019, such as a yoga mat 3019a or other type of exercise mat, one or more jump ropes, yoga blocks 3019b, suspension trainer straps, bungies, resistance bands or other elastic or non-elastic fitness accessories, and/or dumbbells, kettlebells, weighted balls or other free weights. In some embodiments, the enclosure 3005 includes a lower shroud 3018 which defines the internal cavity of the cabinet 3011. The enclosure 3005 may include an upper shroud 3036, which may at least partially enclose the upper portion of the frame (e.g., the mast 3006) and the display mount 3007. The upper shroud 3036 may at least partially enclose moving components of the system (e.g., the slides or other moving components of the display mount) and electronics positioned behind the display 3002. The upper shroud 3036 may include one or more vents, e.g., a grate or other permeable structure suitably arranged to allow heated air to vent from inside the shroud.
The enclosure 3005 (e.g., lower and upper shrouds 3018 and 3036, respectively) may be configured to provide the tower 3003 with a generally monolithic look or appearance. For example, the lower and upper shrouds 3018 and 3036, respectively, may have substantially the same width thereby providing the tower with a generally monolithic appearance, e.g., from the rear side thereof (see e.g., FIGS. 4 and 9B). The monolithic appearance may be enhanced by the lower and upper shrouds 3018 and 3036, respectively, also having substantially the same depth, providing a monolithic appearance of the tower also from a side view thereof (see e.g., FIG. 8a). In some embodiments, the monolithic appearance may be enhanced, e.g., from the front side of the tower, by the front panel 3016 having substantially the same width as the display 3002, when in the portrait orientation, and, optionally, the lower and upper shrouds 3018 and 3036, respectively, thereby providing a monolithic appearance also from a front side of the tower (see e.g., FIGS. 5a and 5b). In some embodiments, the width of the tower's enclosure may vary (e.g., decrease with increasing height) thereby providing a tapered monolithic appearance. In some embodiments, the lower shroud 3018 is sized such that its width that does not exceed the width WB of the base 3004, and its depth that does not exceed the LB of the base 3004. In some embodiments, the depth of the cabinet (e.g., lower shroud 3018) is about half the length LB of the base 3004 or less. In some such embodiments, the front panel 3016 (e.g., door 3013 of the cabinet 3011) is substantially centered on the base and the internal cavity of the cabinet 3011 (e.g., lower shroud 3018) is positioned to extend over only the aft portion of the base 3004 (e.g., extending only aft of the mid-plane of the system 3000). The front panel 3016 and display 3002 may remain substantially flush in any configuration of the display, enhancing the aesthetics (e.g., the monolithic look) of the tower 3003. In other embodiments, various other configurations may be used for the tower, which may or may not be monolithic in appearance, while still providing an aesthetically pleasing look.
As previously noted, the front panel 3016 may be provided at least partially by a door 3013 of a cabinet formed by the tower's enclosure. The door 3013 may be pivotable, slidable and/or otherwise translatable relative to the upright frame 3009 and/or base 3004 for opening and closing the cabinet 3011. In some embodiments, the door 3013 may be encircled, at least partially, by a casing 3015 that forms part of the front panel 3016. The door 3013 and casing 3015 may together provide a generally continuous or seamless appearance on the front side of the tower, which may enhance the monolithic look, and thus improve the aesthetics, of the tower. In some embodiments, the exercise system 3000 may additionally, optionally include an electronics panel or assembly 3027 including one or more electronic components located at a height between the cabinet and the display. An electronics panel cover 3029 may be provided over the front side of the electronics assembly 3027 and may form part of the front façade or panel 3016 of the system 3000. In some such embodiments, the cover 3029 may be provided by a fabric or other type of mesh cover that substantially conceals the electronic components from view without interfering with their operation. At least a portion of the electronics panel 3027 may be concealed behind an aesthetic façade, which may be formed, e.g., by any suitable combination of speaker fabric or grill, tinted glass (e.g., over the camera portion of the electronics panel) or other suitable materials. In various embodiments, the electronics panel (e.g., some or all of the individual electronics thereof) are mounted to the tower so as to remain fixed in use. In some embodiments, one or more of the electronic components (e.g., one or more of the cameras) may be adjustably mounted (e.g., rotatable to change a field of view of the one or more of the cameras).
In some embodiments, the electronics panel 3027 includes any suitable combination of electronics, such as one or more speakers 3027a, a camera system 3027b including one or more cameras, LiDAR devices, or the like or any combinations thereof, and/or at least one microphone 3027c. In some embodiments, a sufficient number of (e.g., at least two) speakers 3027a are included and suitably arranged to provide stereo audio. In some embodiments, the camera system 3027b includes a sufficient number of (e.g., at least two) cameras operatively arranged to function as a stereo (or depth) camera such that three dimensional (3D) image data (e.g., of the user performing an exercise in front of the system) can be obtained. In some embodiments, LiDAR technology may be additionally or alternatively be used for acquiring 3D image data (e.g., a 3D scans of a field of view in front of the tower 3003). The various electronics of the system, including the electronics of the assembly 3027 and the display 3002, may communicate with at least one processor of the system 3000. In some embodiments, the system 3000 may include one or more additional processors, which may be located in the upper portion of the tower, e.g., behind the display and enclosed by the upper shroud 3036. In some embodiments, the one or more processors of the system include at least one processor located in the intermediate cavity between the display and cabinet that houses the electronics panel. In some embodiments, the at least one processor is a GPU or other processing unit of the display 3002. In some embodiments, the at least one processor of the system is configured to process the image data acquired by the camera/LiDAR and compare it against the predicted or expect form when performing a given exercise, and to generate and provide feedback to the user for correcting his or her form. In some embodiments, the captured image data is compared to a model of the predicted/expected form. For example, the processor may use object recognition to determine various characteristics of the user, as captured in the image data, such as the user's weight, height, and/or the position of the user's arms, legs, hands, knees, elbows, head, and various other portions of the user's body. This position data may be applied to the model, which in some cases may be a suitably trained machine learning model (e.g., an object recognition model) to identify differences between the recorded and expected positions and generate form feedback for the user.
User controls 3012 (see e.g., FIGS. 8a and 8b) may be provided at any suitable location on the tower for operating various electronic components of the system 3000. The controls may include a power ON/OFF control, 3012a, a volume control 3012b and others, which and may be implemented using any suitable combination of mechanical controls (e.g., dials, buttons or switches) and/or soft controls (e.g., touch controls or GUI controls), one or more of which may be provided on the display 3002. In some embodiments, the system 3000 may be equipped with voice recognition and control, in some cases integrating the system with third party voice command services such as Alexa, Siri, or other such services currently known or later developed. Voice control may be used to control any of the electronics of the system, including the display such as to control the coaching content. For example, voice control (e.g., via an Alexa, Siri or other voice command service) may be used to start, pause and stop the displaying of coaching content (e.g., an exercise program selected by or tailored for the user). Voice control may be used to skip exercises, add additional reps or exercises otherwise modify the coaching content. Voice control may be used for other functions such as to increase or decrease the volume, adjust the brightness of the display, start, pause and stop recording or initiate, pause or terminate any other function provided by the system, such as live scanning of the user's form and/or providing feedback based on the user's form. In some embodiments, along with or in place of pre-recorded coaching content, live user-specific feedback may be provided to the user based on the observed user's form as obtained from the image data captured by the camera(s). For example, the camera(s) may be suitably arranged to capture one or more images, in some case 3D images, and provide those images to the processor. The processor may be configured to analyze the image data to determine various characteristics of the user. For example, the image data may be passed through an object recognition algorithm to identify the location of various parts of the user's body (e.g., the user's hands, feet, legs, torso, orientations thereof and various other kinematic and kinesthetic parameters which are then used by the system to analyze the user's form in relation to an expected form for a given exercise, which may be provided by an exercise model. Based on this analysis, the system may provide a recommendation, either visually through animation showing the adjusted form recommended for the user and/or through audible instructions, such as telling the user to bend a knee or elbow further, move their arms out, straighten their torso, etc. In some embodiments, the images acquired by the camera(s) may be used by the processor to count repetitions of a given exercise and thus automatically track the user's progress along the selected exercise program, and thus may automatically advance through the program (e.g., taking pauses, starting the next exercise and/or providing exercise instructions or motivation). Voice control may also be used by the user to adjust, in real time, the coaching content, for example to instruct the system to change the exercise program for example to increase the weight and/or number of reps in a given exercise sequence. Various other interactions between the user and system 3000 may be implemented using voice control and computer vision (e.g., object recognition) functions embodied in the electronic components of the system.
Referring now also to FIG. 17, a simplified block diagram of electronic components 4000 of an exercise system (e.g., system 100 or 3000) according to the present disclosure is shown and described. The electronic components 4000 of the system (e.g., exercise system 3000) include a display 4002 and one or more additional input/output output devices 4001, such as speaker(s) 4004, camera(s) 4006, and/or microphone(s) 4008. The system 3000 further includes one or more processing elements (or simply processor(s)) 4010, one or more memory components (or simply memory) 4012, network/communication interface 4016, and power source components (or simply power) 4014. The electronic components may be in direct or indirect communication with one another, via wired or wireless means 4018, such as via one or more system buses, contract traces, wiring, or via a wireless link.
The display 4002 may be implemented by any suitable display technology, for example as an LCD, plasma display, LED, organic LED (or OLED), quantum dot display (or QLED), etc. As previously noted, in some embodiments, the display is a large size display (e.g., being at least 40 inches in height when oriented in portrait mode). In some examples, more than one display portions or screens may be used to implement the display 4002. In some embodiments, the multiple display portions or screens are co-located (e.g., arranged adjacent one another) and optionally covered by the same/single transparent display cover (e.g., a glass pane). In some embodiments, the display 4002 may be, or include, a touch-sensitive (or active) display potion which may be used to provide input to the system in addition, or alternatively, to the voice commands or other input means (e.g., user controls 3012). In some embodiments, the display 4002 may be, or include, a non-touch (or passive) display. In some embodiments, commands to the system may additionally or alternatively be provided via a separate computing device (e.g., a tablet, smart phone or other personal computing device of the user), which may be directly (e.g., wirelessly) communicatively coupled to the system 3000 or indirectly coupled there to, for example via the internet (e.g., via a web-based or other hosted application). The input/output devices 4001 may additionally include any suitable combination of one or more speakers, cameras, and microphones. For example, the audio output associated with certain contend (e.g., coaching content) provided on the display may be output via the one or more speakers 4004 (e.g., speakers 3027a). In some embodiments, the audio may additionally or alternately be output to a user headset or a remote speaker (separate from the system), e.g., via Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), or other suitable wireless connection. In some embodiments, the system may additionally receive inputs via one or more biometric sensors (e.g., a heart rate sensor, a fingerprint sensor), which may be communicatively coupled to the system or the user's personal device (e.g., smartphone) via a suitable wireless connection.
The processor(s) 4010 may be implemented by any suitable combination of one or more electronic devices capable of processing, receiving, and/or transmitting instructions (e.g., one or more central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), digital signal processor (DSPs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), microprocessors, microcontrollers, a single board computers, any other suitable processing units, or combinations thereof). The processor(s) 4010 may include one or more processing elements or modules that may or may not be in communication with one another. For example, a first processing element may control a first set of the components 4000 and a second processing element may control a second set of the components 4000 where the first and second processing elements may or may not be in communication with each other. The processor(s) 4010 may be configured to execute one or more instructions in parallel locally, and/or across a network, such as through cloud computing resources or other networked electronic devices. The processor(s) 4010 may control various elements of the exercise system 3000, including but not limited to the display 4002.
The memory 4012 stores electronic data that may be utilized by the system (e.g., by the processor 4010 and/or display 4002), such as audio files, video files, document files, programming instructions, media, buffered data such as for executing programs and/or streaming content, and the like. The memory 4012 may be, for example, non-volatile storage, a magnetic storage medium (e.g., a hard disk), optical storage medium, magneto-optical storage medium, read only memory, random access memory, erasable programmable memory, flash memory, or a combination of one or more types of memory components. In some embodiments, memory 4012 may store one or more programs, modules and data structures, or a subset or superset thereof. The program and modules of the memory 4012 may include firmware and/or software, such as, but are not limited to, an operating system, a network communication module, a system initialization module, and/or a media player. The operating system may include procedures for handling various basic system services and for performing hardware dependent tasks. Further, a system initialization module may initialize other modules and data structures stored in the memory 4012 for the appropriate operation of the system. In some embodiments, the memory 4012 may store, responsive to the processor 4010, user data which may be recorded or determined by the system (e.g., captured image data of the user performing exercise, exercise repetition count(s), exercise percent completion or progress along an exercise program, user physical characteristics and biometrics such as weight, height, sex, heart rate, etc.).
The system may be coupled to external computing devices (e.g., the user's smart phone, and external storage device, etc.) via any suitable network/communication interface 4016. For example, the network/communication interface 4016 may be implemented by one or more wireless communication devices (e.g., Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, BLE, ZigBee, radio frequency (RF), or other wireless transmitters/receivers, also referred to as transceivers). In some embodiments, the network/communication interface 4016 may include a network communication module stored in the memory 4012, such as an application program interface (API) that interfaces and translates requests across the network between the network interface 4016 and other devices on the network. The network communication module may be used for connecting the system (e.g., processor 4010 and display 4002) to other devices (such as personal computers, laptops, smartphones, and the like) in communication with one or more communication networks (wired or wireless), such as the Internet, other wide area networks, local area networks, metropolitan area networks, personal area networks, and so on. The electronic components 4000 of the system are powered by any suitable power supply 4014. The power supply 4014 may include one or more rechargeable batteries, power management circuit(s) and/or other circuitry (e.g., AC/DC inverter, DC/DC converter, or the like) for connecting the components 4000 to an external power source. The power supply 4014 may include one or more power supply elements that may or may not be in communication with one another. For example, a first power supply may provide power to one or a first set of the components 4000 and a second power supply may provide power to another one or a second set of the components 4000 where the first and second power supplies may or may not be connected to one other. Additionally, the power supply 4014 may include one or more types of connectors or components that provide different types of power to the components 4000. In some embodiments, the power supply 4014 may include a connector (such as a universal serial bus) that provides power to the an external device such as a smart phone, tablet or other user device.
Referring back to FIGS. 10-16c, the upright frame 3009 includes an upright support or mast 3006 that extends to a height above the front panel 3016. In some embodiments, multiple rigid members (e.g., upright and transverse tubes 3006a and 3006b, respectively) are fixed (e.g., welded) together for form a weldment that serves as the mast 3006. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the weldment or mast may not be fully enclosed by the enclosure 3005. The display 3002 is coupled to the mast 3006 at a height above the front panel 3016. This advantageously positions the display 3002 at an elevation (or height) comfortable for viewing by a user in a standing position. In use, the exercise system 3000 may display any desired video content, for example a live session with a trainer or a pre-recorded video in which a trainer demonstrates an exercise. In some embodiments, the display is a large size display (e.g., the longer dimension of which is at least 40 inches, in some cases 43 inches or more). Thus, when positioned in the portrait orientation, the display may extend to a height of at least 40 inches above the front panel 3016 of the tower. A large size display can be advantageous as it can provide a nearly life-size exercise demonstration to the user and/or allow the user to be a substantial distance away from the display while performing exercise while still being able to comfortably and clearly view the exercise demonstration. However, utilizing a large size display also creates challenges, due to its weight, for example, in providing a stable, secure and smooth translational/rotational mount, which may be addressed by the present invention. The display 3002 may be used to display virtually any content, whether related or unrelated to exercise. For example, when not in use for exercise, the display 3002 may display a screen saver (e.g., a digital display of a dial clock or clock of user-selected format, or a decorative image or other audio-visual content unrelated to exercise). In some embodiments, the display 3002 may have a width (in at least one position of the display) that is substantially the same as the width of the front panel 3016, which may further enhance the aesthetics of the exercise system. In some embodiments, the width of the display (e.g., in the portrait orientation) may substantially define the overall width of the tower.
The display 3002 is movably coupled to the mast 3006 via a display mount 3007. The display mount 3007 is configured to enable the display 3002 to be selectively translated, in this example vertically along the mast 3006, and rotated, in this example about a rotation (or pivot) axis A (see e.g., FIG. 12). The display mount 3007 is configured to support the display 3002 in a first vertical position (also referred to as the lowered position), in which the display 3002 is adjacent to the front panel 3016. In this position, a first edge 3022 of the display 3002 may be adjacent, although not necessarily in contact with, the upper edge 3024 of the front panel 3016, e.g., as shown in FIG. 8b, whereby rotation of the display about the pivot axis A (e.g., from the portrait orientation to the landscape orientation) is substantially prevented. The display mount 3007 is configured to translate and support the display 3002 in at least one other vertical position above the first position. For example, the display mount 3007 is configured to enable translating the display 3002 to a second (also referred to as an elevated or raised) position in which the lower edge of the display is spaced sufficiently far apart from the upper edge of the front panel to enable rotation of the display 3002 between the portrait and landscape orientations. In some embodiments, the display 3002 may be translatable and/or rotatable responsive to the application of an external force such as manual force (e.g. applied by a user) or electronic actuation force (e.g. applied by a motor).
As described herein, the display 3002 is selectively rotatable between a first orientation (e.g., a portrait orientation) and a second orientation (e.g., a landscape orientation), e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5a-5c. In a first configuration of the system 3000, as shown in FIG. 5a, the display 3002 is at a first (or lower) position relative to the front panel 3016, in which the front panel 3016 prevents rotation of the display 3002. In this example, the lower edge of the display 3002 is adjacent to, although not necessarily in contact with, the upper edge of the front façade or panel 3016 of the exercise system, whereby rotation of the display 3002 between the portrait and landscape orientations is prevented when the display 3002 is in the first position. However, in other embodiments, the display may be sufficiently spaced above the front panel, and thus rotatable, even in the first (or lower) position. In a second configuration of the system 3000, as shown in FIG. 5b, the display 3002 is at a second (or higher) position relative to the front panel 3016, which may be interchangeably referred to as the raised or elevated position. In this position, the display 3002 is sufficiently spaced above the front panel 3016 to enable rotation of the display 3002 between the first (or portrait) orientation, as shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b, and the second (or landscape) orientation as shown in FIG. 5c.
With particular reference now to FIGS. 11-16c, the display mount assembly (or simply display mount) 3007 is described now in further detail. While shown as incorporated into the example system 3000, it will be understood that the display mount 3007 may be used for translatably and rotatably coupling the display of an exercise system according to any of the examples herein (e.g., system 100). The display mount 3007 may be implemented similarly to the display mount 200 previously described. For example, a mounting plate 3031, which may be similarly implemented to the mounting plate 218, is coupled to a rear side of the display 3002. In some embodiments, the mounting plate 3031 is fixed to the display 3002. In other embodiments, the mounting plate 3031 may be adjustably coupled to the rear side of the display 3002. An axle 3039 extends from the mounting plate 3031 for rotatably coupling the display 3002 to the carriage assembly (e.g., carrier 3042). The axle 3040 may be implemented by any suitable means. In the present example, the axle 3040 is implemented by a shoulder bolt 3040, having a head 3040a, an unthreaded portion or shank 3040b, and a threaded portion 3040c. A collar 3035, which is fixed to the mounting plate 3031, captures the head 3040a of the bolt 3040 and retains the bolt 3040 to the mounting plate 3031, whereby the threaded portion 3040c and at least a portion of the shank 3040b extends out of the collar 3035, rearwardly from the rear side of the display 3002. One or more washers 3043 may be provided between the head 3040a of the bolt 3040 and the collar 3035. The collar 3035 and bolt 3040, which may be similarly configured and assembled together as the collar 226 and bolt 224 to define the pivot axis A about which the display 3002 is selectively rotatable.
The axle 3039 (e.g., shoulder bolt 3040) is operatively coupled to the carrier 3042, which translates (e.g., slides) along at least a portion of the length of the mast 3006. The pivot axis A is thus configured to translate along the mast. The carrier 3042 may be implemented similar to the carrier 236. The carrier 3042 may be coupled to the mast 3006 via at least one slide 3045 to enable the translation of the carrier 3042 along the mast 3006. In the present example, the carrier 3042 is slidably coupled to the mast by a pair of slides 3045, each located on an opposite side of the mast 3006. Each slide 3045 includes a first portion 3045b fixed to the mast and a second portion 3045a fixed to the carrier 3045. The first and second portions 3045b and 3045a are operatively (e.g., slidably) coupled to one another by one or more rollers, bushings, bearings or any other suitable coupling means that enables movement of the second portion relative to the first portion. In use (e.g., when actuated), the second portion 3045a and carrier 3042 translate (e.g., slide) relative to the first portion 3045b, which remains fixed to the mast 3006, and consequently the pivot joint (e.g., axle 3039), mounting plate 3031 and the display 3002 translate along the mast 3006.
The pivot joint provides a rotational interface between the mounting plate 3031 and the carrier 3042, and this rotational interface is configured to move up and down as result of the movement of the carrier along the mast 3006. In other embodiments, the carrier may be configured to move in a different direction, such as forward and aft (e.g., parallel to the rotational axis) whereby the rotational interface also moves forward and aft. In the present example, the rotational interface is implemented as a sliding rotational interface 3061 (see e.g., FIGS. 14a and 14b) defined between the first bushing 3044 on one side and the second bushing 3046 on the opposite side of the interface. The first bushing 3044 is non-rotatably coupled to the mounting plate 3031, for example by being keyed to the collar 3035. The collar 3035 defines a central aperture which is sufficiently large to accommodate the narrower portion of the first bushing 3034 but not the wider, base portion of the first bushing 3034. When assembled, the narrow portion of the first bushing 3034 is received in the central aperture (or passage) of the collar 3035, with the base of the first bushing 3034 providing the sliding surface for the rotational interface 3061. The second bushing 3036 is non-rotatably coupled to the carrier 3042. For example, the second bushing 3036 may be retained to the carrier 3042 by any suitable structure (e.g., the retainer ring 3057 which may be fixed such as by being welded or integrally formed with the carrier 3042). The second bushing 3036 may be keyed to the retainer ring 3057 thereby non-rotatably coupling the bushing 3036 to the carrier 3042. Similar to the collar 3035, the retainer ring 3057 comprises a central aperture that accommodates the passage of the narrow portion of the second bushing 3036 but not its wider, base portion. The depth of the central aperture or passage defined by the retainer ring 3057 may be substantially the same as the height of the narrow portion of the bushing 3036, such that the second bushing 3036 is exposed through the passage to form a sliding interface with the first bushing 3034. In some embodiments, the sliding interface 3061 may also include sliding contact between the first bushing 3034 and the front surface of the retainer ring 3057, which may be suitably treated or coated with a friction reducing material to reduce the resistance and/or wear at the rotational interface.
When the display mount 3007 is assembled (see e.g., FIG. 14a), the shoulder bolt 3040 is coaxially coupled to the first and second bushings 3034 and 3036, respectively, which are arranges in series. The shoulder bolt 3040 extends into the carrier 3042 and is retained thereto by a nut 3059 coupled to the threaded portion 3040c of the bolt 3040. In some embodiments, one or more spacers may be provided between the nut 3059 and the second bushing 3046. For example, a first washer 3053, implemented here as a plain washer, may be provided between the second bushing 3046 and the nut 3059. Additionally or alternatively, a second washer 3055, which is implemented in this example as a preloaded washer 3055 may be provided between the second bushing 3046 and the nut 3059. The preload washer 3055 may be implemented by a wave washer 3055a and optionally a retained by a washer nut 3055b, as in the present example. In other examples any other suitable preload washer (e.g., a spring washer) or combinations may be used. The preload washer applies or maintains the desired preload, which may remove free play at the rotational interface and/or prevent the joint from loosening with use. Additionally or alternatively, inadvertent loosening and/or separation of the nut 3059 from the bolt 3040 may be prevented by the use of a retention mechanism 3049, implemented here by a cotter pin 3049a and custom castle nut 3049b (see e.g., FIG. 15). The custom castle nut 3049b is threaded over the nut 3059 such that its first side, which defines a cavity, encloses at least a portion of the nut 3059, and its second side comprising the notches 3049c, extends towards the free end of the bolt 3040. The cotter pin 3049a is received between a set of the notches 3049c and is inserted into a transverse through-hole 3040d in the aft portion of the bolt 3040 to prevent inadvertent separation of the nut 3059 from the bolt 3040.
The carrier 3042 may be operatively associated with a lift assist device 3050. The lift assist device 3050 may be a passive device configured to support, at least partially, the weight of the display assembly, such as to aid the user while lifting the assembly to the elevated position and/or to hold the display assembly in the elevated position. In some embodiments, the lift assist device 3051 is implemented by a gas spring or other type pneumatic, hydraulic and/or mechanical shock absorber. In some embodiments, the lift assist device 3050 may alternatively or additionally include any suitable actuator, e.g., a linear actuator, which may be optionally powered such as by a servo or other motor, and which may optionally be actuated responsive to electronic command. In the preset example, the lift assist device 3050 is shown as a gas spring, oriented substantially vertically, with one end thereof coupled to the carrier 3042 and at the other end to the mast 3006, such that the display is in the elevated position when the strut of the gas spring is extended. In other examples, the lift assist device may be differently arranged on the frame, for example to support the display in the elevated position when the extendable strut is in a retracted position, or an entirely different lift assist mechanism may be used.
Translation and rotation of the display 3002 are limited by a guide 3032. The guide 3032 may be implemented by a track 3033 operatively engaging a follower 3034. In the present example, the track 3033 is implemented by a structure having substantially parallel walls that define a non-linear travel path P for the follower 3034. The track 3033 in this example is a female track in that it receives the follower 3034 for guiding it along the travel path P. The track 3033 is fixed to the mounting plate at an operative location to restrict (or limit) the translation and rotation of the display 3002 to the desired path P. The follower 3034 in this example is implemented by a protrusion (or post) 3034a fixed to the mast 3006. A bearing 3034b is provided at the free end of the post 3034a and retained to the post by a fastener 3034c. The bearing is sized to fit into the track 3033 (see e.g., FIG. 14a) and may engage one or both of the opposite walls of the track 3033 as the follower traverses the path P. The track 3033 and follower 3034 (e.g., bearing 3034b) thus restrict the display 3002 to movement only along the defined path P. In other examples, the guide 3032 and follower 3034 may be implemented differently, for example by a male track that protrudes and is captured in a female cavity of a follower, or is otherwise cooperatively engaged by a follower to restrict the movement thereof along the desired path. The guide 3032 may reduce or substantially eliminate free play, thereby providing improved motion control. In some embodiments, the guide 3032 may obviate the need for other motion limiters (e.g., detents), and thus no detents may be included.
In some embodiments, as in the presently illustrated example, one or more detents (e.g., rotation detent 3037 and translation detents 3047 and 3048), which may further improve the motion control and/or aid the lift provided by the lift assist device 3050. The detents are configured to increase the hold (or resist separation) of the display 3002 from one of the predetermined positions/orientations (e.g., the first and/or second positions, or the landscape and/or portrait orientations) of the display. In some embodiments, one or more of the detents are implemented by magnetic means. For example, and referring e.g., to FIGS. 11 and 12, a rotation detent 3037 may be implemented by a first bracket 3037a fixed to the carrier 3042 and supporting a first magnet 3037b. The first bracket 3037a and magnet 3037b are arranged to magnetically attract (or couple with) a cooperating detent structure 3037c fixed to the display. The cooperating detent structure 3037c may be provided by a tab or other suitable structured fixed (e.g., welded, fastened or integrally formed) with the mounting plate 3031 and made from a ferromagnetic material such as steel. The structure 3037c is operatively arranged near the end of the rotational range, as defined by the track 3033, such that the magnet 3037b magnetically couples to the structure 3037c when the follower 3034 is at one end (e.g., the curved end) of the track 3 and the display is in the landscape orientation. In other embodiments, the locations of the bracket 3037a with magnet 3037b and cooperating detent structure 3037c may be reversed such that the magnet 3037b is fixed to the mounting plate 3031 and the cooperating detent structure 3037c is fixed to the carrier 3042. One or more translation detents (e.g., upper and lower translation detents 3047 and 3048) may be implemented by one or more second brackets and corresponding magnets arranged to magnetically couple with respective one or more second cooperating structures to resist translational movement of the display. Referring again e.g., to FIGS. 11 and 12, an upper bracket 3047a is fixed to the mast 3006 and supports an upper magnet 3047b. The bracket 3047a and magnet 3047b are operatively positioned to magnetically couple with an upper cooperating detent structure 3047c fixed to (e.g., integrally formed with) the carrier 3042 when the display 3002 is in the elevated position, thereby resisting translation of the carrier 3042 in the downward direction and enhancing the lifting (or holding) force of the lift assist device 3050. Optionally, a lower translation detent 3048 may also be provided to resist the lifting of the display 3002. For example, a lower bracket 3048a supporting a magnet 3048b may be fixed to the carrier 3042. The bracket 3048a and magnet 3048b are operatively arranged to magnetically couple with a lower cooperating detent structure 3048c fixed to the mast 3006 when the display 3002 is in the lower position, thereby resisting translation of the carrier 3042 and the display 3002 in the upward direction. In some embodiments, one or more of the magnets 3034b, 3047b and 3048b may be adjustably supported on their respective bracket, e.g., to vary the proximity to the magnet to the respective cooperating structure, thereby changing the magnetic attractive force between the two.
With reference again to FIGS. 5a-5c and also referring to FIGS. 16a-16c, to change the orientation of the display 3002, the display is first elevated as shown in FIGS. 5a-5b and 16a-16b by providing to it sufficient force to overcome the lower translation detent, if provided. As the display 3002, and consequently the display mount 3031, move upward, the follower 3034 which is fixed to the mast 3006 moves downward along the path P defined by the track 3033 (see e.g., FIGS. 16a-16b). Once in the second (elevated) position, the upper translation detent, if provided, engages, and the display 3002 can be rotated relative to the mast (i.e. about the axis A) from the portrait orientation (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5b) to the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown in FIG. 5c). As the display is rotated about the axis A, the follower 3034 advances along the curved portion of the path P (e.g., as shown in FIG. 16b). Once rotated to the landscape orientation, the rotation detent, if provided, engages to apply an additional holding force thereby resisting movement of the display 3002 away from the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 5c ad 16c). To return the display 3002 to the portrait orientation, this sequence is reversed. A sufficient rotational force (e.g., against the magnetic attraction force of the magnetic detent 3037) is applied to rotate the display 3002 from the landscape orientation to the portrait orientation, and then a sufficient downward force (e.g., against the magnetic attraction force of the upper detent 3047) is applied to lower the display 3002 from the second, elevated position back to the first, lowered position.
In various embodiments, an exercise media display system includes a display supported above a support surface by a mast. A carriage assembly is coupled to the display and configured to enable the display to be moved between a portrait orientation and an landscape orientation. The carriage assembly includes a carrier slidably coupled to the mast, a display mounting plate fixedly coupled to the display and rotatably coupled to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carrier is slidably coupled to the mast by a first slide and a second slide disposed on opposite sides of the mast. The carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a translation direction. The rotatable coupling of the display mounting plate and the carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a rotation direction, as the display moves between the portrait orientation and the landscape orientation. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly defines a first aperture configured to receive a fastener for coupling the display to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly further includes a bushing non-rotatably coupled to the carrier. The bushing may be non-rotatably coupled by cooperative engagement of a key of the bushing engaging a keyway, e.g., formed in an edge of the first aperture. In some embodiments, another bushing is non-rotatably coupled to the display mounting plate, and a rotational interface is defined, by the pair of bushings, between the display and the carrier. In some embodiments, the rotational interface comprises a sliding interface wherein opposing surfaces of the pair of bushings slide against each other when the display rotates. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly includes an actuator that assists the motion of the display in the translation direction. In some embodiments, the actuator is coupled at a first end to the carrier and at a second end to the mast. In some embodiments, the collar includes a flange extending radially from a sidewall thereof and arranged to cooperate with first and second shelves fixed to the carrier to limit rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mounting plate includes a first detent and a second detent, and the carrier includes a positioner configured to alternatively engage the first detent and the second detent when the display is in the respective one of the first or second positions, to retain the display in the respective one of the first and second positions.
FIGS. 18A-18B, and 19A-19B show display mounts 300 and 400, respectively, for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) according to further embodiments herein. The display mounts 300 and 400 may be similarly configured to enable rotation of the display relative to the tower (e.g., mast 106, front panel 116, etc.) after the display 102 has been translated relative to the tower (e.g., mast 106, front panel 116, etc.). In these examples, however, the display mounts 300 and 400 are configured for translating the display forward and aft, e.g., along the rotational axis or a direction parallel thereto. For enabling rotation of the display, the display mounts 300 and 400 may provide a similar sliding rotational interface, and thus include the same or similar combination of components, as described in FIGS. 2A-2J. For example, the rotational interface between the display and mast may be provided, in part, by a mounting plate 218 operatively coupled to the rear side of the display, a rotational axis defining element, such as a fastener 224 or axle that couples the mounting plate to the carriage assembly (e.g., 302 in FIGS. 18A-18B and 402 in FIGS. 19A-19B), and one or more bushings (e.g., annular bushings 230 and 234) operatively arranged to be in contact with one another to provide a sliding rotational interface.
The display mounts 300 and 400, however, have respective carriage assemblies 302 and 402 configured to translate the display transverse to the mast 106 (e.g., as shown by translation direction 108), rather than along the length of the mast 106. The carriage assemblies 302 and 402 assembly may include one or more slides 303 and 403, respectively which are arranged to enable translation of the mounting plate 218, and thus the display mounted thereto, in the horizontal plane. In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 18A-18B and 19A-19B, a pair of slides is used, each slide provided on the opposite sides of the mast. In some embodiments, fewer or greater number of slides may be used. The one or more slides 303 and 403 are oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the longitudinal direction of the mast 106, which in this embodiment is oriented substantially vertically. Also, it should be noted in this and other embodiments of the disclosure, while the various carriage assemblies shown illustrate components for operatively (e.g., slidably) coupling to one member (e.g., one tube) of the mast, it is envisioned that in some embodiments, the mast may include multiple members (e.g., two or more tubes and in such embodiments, carriers may be operatively coupled (e.g., slidably, for example vertically or transversely) to multiple members of the mast and then fixed to a carrier mounting plate which may then be rotatably coupled to the display mounting plate, such as via the same or similar rotational interface as described herein.
Each of the slides 303 and 403 may be implemented using any suitable arrangement of components. In the example in FIGS. 18A-18B, each of the pair of slides 303 includes a respective first portion 304a and 304b, which may be implemented, in part, by a track configured to capture one or more rollers 306. The one or more rollers 306 of each slide 303 are coupled to respective second portions 308a and 308b of the respective slides 303. The rollers 306 rollably engage (e.g., are received between the side walls of the track such that they roll along the track but are substantially constrained from translation in any other direction) the respective track. The term roller is used to collectively refer to any suitable rolling element such as a roller, a bearing or the like. The second portions 308a and 308b may be implemented by respective rigid members (e.g., side plates) which are part of the, or fixedly coupled to, the carrier 336. The carrier 336 may be implemented by any suitable rigid structure, such as a bracket that wraps at least partially around the mast, for example around the sides and top of the mast 106.
In the example in FIGS. 19A and 19B, each of the pair of slides 403 similarly includes a respective first portion 404a and 404b, which may be implemented, in part, by a track configured to capture at least one sliding element (e.g., bushing) 406. The sliding element(s) 406 of each slide 403 is coupled to the respective second portion (only one second portion 408b is visible in FIGS. 19A and 19B) of the respective slides 303. The sliding element 406 operatively slidably engages its respective track such it can translate along the length of the track, while translation in any other direction is substantially constrained.
Like the carriage assembly of FIGS. 2A-2J, the carriage assemblies of the display mounts 300 and 400 may be similarly configured to limit translation of the display and to retain the display, such as by resisting the relative movement of the first and second portions of the slides, in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions. Referring to the example in FIG. 19B, the carriage assembly 402 may include one or more positioners 409 (e.g., ball spring(s)) arranged to selectively engage any one of a plurality of detents 411 to retain the display in any of the plurality of predetermined positions (e.g., the extended position, in which the display is forward of the front panel and the retracted position, in which the display is flush with or behind the front panel). In this example, the detents are provided in a spaced arrangement along the length of the carrier, which is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the length of the mast 106.
FIGS. 20A-20D illustrate further examples of a display mount 500 for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) of the present disclosure. The display mount 500 is configured to enable the mounting plate 518, and consequently the display 102 (not shown in these views), to be translated between a first and second position (e.g., as indicated by arrow 108) and rotated between at least a landscape and portrait orientations (e.g., as indicated by clockwise and counter clockwise rotation direction 110). The display mount 500 is configured to enable translation along the direction of the rotational axis, which coincides with the axis of the shaft 510. In this example, the carriage assembly 502 is configured to provide both the translation and rotation interfaces. The carriage assembly 502 includes a first portion (e.g., shaft 510), which is fixed to the mast, with its axis transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the length of the mast 106. The carriage assembly 502 further includes a second portion (e.g., tube 506) which is slidably engaged with the shaft. The second portion (e.g., tube 506) may be fixed to a mounting plate 518, which in turn is operatively coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display. In the illustrated example, the first portion (e.g., shaft 510) is slidably and rotatably received within the second portion (e.g., tube 506). It is envisioned that in other embodiments, the first portion may be a tubular shaft which slidably and rotatably receives the second portion, which is coupled to the display. In this example, the translation and rotation interfaces are provided by the same component(s), e.g., a tubular bushing 508 disposed inside the tube 510, between the interior surface of the tube and the shaft 510. The bushing may be fixed to one of the tube and the shaft, in this example the bushing 508 is fixed to the tube. In some embodiments, a receptacle 512, which may be implemented by a tubular rigid member or a U-shaped rigid member, may be coupled (e.g., fixed) to the mast to guide and/or support the second portion (e.g., tube 506) of the carriage assembly 502. In use, when changing the orientation of the display, the first portion (e.g., shaft 510) remains fixed relative to the receptacle 512 while the second portion (e.g., tube 506) may slide and rotate relative to the receptacle 512. In the retracted position, at least a portion of the tube is received within the receptacle 512 and the receptacle 512, thus additional supports the weight of the display. To adjust the orientation of the display, the user may pull on the display to cause the mounting plate 518 and tube to translate horizontally along the shaft, with the tube extending out of the receptacle 512, if provided. This positions the display forward of the front panel of the tower enabling rotation of the display. Once rotated about the axis of the shaft 510, the use may retract the display while in the adjusted orientation such that the tube 506 is again received in, and supported by, the receptacle 512. A pin 504 is inserted transverse to the tube 506. The pin 504 may act as a limiter on the translational and rotational movement of the display mount. For example, the pin 504 may cooperate with a guide provided on the receptacle 512 or other suitable structure to limit the translation and/or rotation of the display. In one embodiment, the pin 504 is received in one or more slots 513 formed in the receptacle 512, the slot(s) being suitably shaped to provide a desired range of translational and rotational movement of the tube and consequently of the display. In some embodiments, the slot 513 may have a first portion which extends along the axial direction and a second portion that extends in the peripheral direction. The first portion restrict movement of the pin, and consequently the tube and display, to the axial direction, and second portion restrict movement of the pin, and consequently the tube and display, to the rotational direction. The second portion of the slot is connected to the forward end of the first portion, e.g., closest to the display, thereby the movement of the tube, and consequently the display, is restricted by the slot to the axial direction first and then subsequently, when the display is moved sufficiently forward and the pin reaches the forward end of the slot, movement is then restricted to the rotation direction. The pin 504 may additionally, optionally be operable to engage the shaft 510/bushing 508 for retaining the display 102 in a desired position and/or orientation. In some embodiments, sufficient resistance to relative movement of the tube and shaft may be provided by the bushing 508 and in some such examples, additional securing (e.g., via the pin 504) of the display may not be used.
FIGS. 21A-21C and FIG. 21D illustrate display mounts 600 and 600′, respectively, for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the display mounts 600 and 600′ use one or more linkages to provide the translation interface or mechanism that enables moving the display forward of the front panel. The display mounts 600 and 600′ may include a mounting plate 618 and 618′, respectively, which may be coupled to the rear side of the display. The mounting plate may in turn be pivotally connected to the linkage(s) of the display mount at one or more pivot locations. In the example in FIGS. 21A-21C, the display mount 600 includes a single pivot, provided by a pivotal coupling 620 between the linkage 602 and the mounting plate 618. In the example in FIG. 21D, the rotational interface is provided by a pair of followers 620 received in an arcuate guide provided on the mounting plate. The arcuate guide may be provided by any suitable structure configured to capture the followers 620 and restrict the movement of the followers 620 to a circular path. In the example in FIG. 21D, the arcuate guide is provided by a respective track 628a and 628b, each configure to receive and guide a respective one of the followers 620 along a quarter circular path, which limits the rotation of the display to 90 degrees. In other examples, the guide may be implemented by a single track and/or the rotational range provided by the guide may be greater than 90 degrees. The guide (e.g., tracks 268a and 628b) may be implemented as slots formed to extend below the rear surface of the mounting plate 618′ or by wall projecting outward from the rear surface. Any suitable structure that can restrict the path of the followers 620 along the desired arcuate path may be used.
In some embodiments, the display mounts 600 and 600′ may use the same or substantially similar linkage arrangement. As shown e.g., in FIG. 21B, the linkage 602 is implemented as a four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage includes a left and right side that are substantially similar to one another in form and function such that both sides are not described individually, for the sake of conciseness. Referring to the side of four-bar linkage visible in FIG. 21B, the four-bar linkage includes first and second links 604 and 608 pivotally coupled to the fixed frame (e.g., the mast 106). A first end of the first link 604 is pivotally coupled to the fixed frame at a first pivot point 614 and the first and of the second link 608 is pivotally coupled to the fixed frame at a second pivot point 616. The first and second pivot points 614 and 616 are spaced apart from one another and define the fixed link of the four-bar linkage, shown as a virtual link 606 extending between the two fixed locations of the pivots 614 and 616. The second end of the first link 604 is pivotally coupled to an upper frame 610 of carriage 624 to define a third pivot point 612 and the second end of the second link 608 is pivotally coupled to a spaced apart location on the upper frame 610, defining a fourth pivot point 618. The third and fourth pivot points 612 and 618 are spaced apart, in this embodiment by the same distance as the two pivot points 614 and 616, thereby the floating link 611 of the four bar linkage therebetween. In use, when the display is translated between the first and second positions, the first and second links 604 and 608, each pivots about the respective one of the first and second pivot points 614 and 616. Concurrently, the upper frame 610, and consequently the floating link 611, is pivotally displaced relative to each of the links 604 and 608, at the pivot points 612 and 618, allowing the upper frame 610, and consequently floating link 611, to translate in the forward/aft direction (or horizontally). The upper frame 610 connects the second (or upper) ends of the pivoting links 604 and 608. In this example, the upper frame 610 is generally U-shaped and provides the floating links of each of the two sides of the four-bar linkage. In some embodiments, the carriage 624 may include a lower frame 626 proximate the first (or lower) ends of the pivoting links 604 and 608. The lower frame 626 may be substantially parallel to the upper frame 610, and may have a similar a U-shape. The upper and lower frames 610 and 626 may be fixed to one another, e.g., via vertical members, to form the carriage 603. In embodiments of the display mount 600′ which uses a two pivot coupling between the display and carriage, one of the two followers may be supported (e.g., fixed to) the lower frame 626.
FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate further examples of a display mount 700 for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) of the present disclosure. Like other embodiments herein, the display mount 700 is configured to enable the mounting plate 718, and consequently the display 102 (not shown in these views), to be translated between a first and second position (e.g., as indicated by arrow 108) and rotated between at least a landscape and portrait orientations (e.g., as indicated by clockwise and counter clockwise rotation direction 110). Like the display mount 500, the display mount 700 is configured to enable translation along the direction of the rotational axis, which coincides with the axis of the shaft 706. In this example, a shaft 706 is coupled (e.g., fixed) to the mounting plate 718 and is received in a tube 710, which is fixed to the mast 106. The tube 710 may have any suitable cross-section, for example a cylindrical or a box cross-section. The shaft 706 is rotatably and translatable received in the tube 710, which in this example is through the use of rolling elements (e.g., balls 709). A plurality of rolling elements may be distributed circumferentially about the shaft, between the shaft and the tube. In some embodiments, the rolling elements are grouped into sets (e.g., first set 704a and second set 704b), the sets being spaced from one another along the length of the tube 710. The rolling elements (e.g., balls 709) provide a rolling interface or engagement between the tube 710 and the shaft 706 where by the shaft can be both rotated about and translated along its axis.
With reference to FIGS. 23A-23C, a display mount 800 for an exercise system is disclosed. The display mount 800 includes a pivoting assembly 802 that enables the display to be tilted (in the direction 108) and then rotate (in the direction 110) in order to reconfigure the display between the landscape and portrait orientations. In this embodiment, the pivoting assembly 802 includes two rotational joints with two different rotational axes, a first, fixed rotational axis that is oriented horizontally and a moving rotational axis which is perpendicular to the first rotational axis. The first rotational axis is defined by the pivot joint 804 that pivotally couples the lug 805 to the mast 106. The display mount includes a mounting plate 818 configured to be fixed to the rear side of the. A rotation joint 812 is provided between the mounting plate 818 and the lug 804. The rotational joint 812 may be implemented using the rotational interface described with reference to FIGS. 2A-2J or using any other suitable arrangement, for example via a shaft extending perpendicular to the plate 818 and operatively engaged with a suitable bearing (e.g., a bushing). The range of rotation of the pivoting assembly 802 may be limited by the cooperative and selective engagement between a pin 810 or other suitable structure with any one of a plurality of detents (e.g., first detent 808a and second detent 808b). In use, after the display is tilted at pivot joint 804 to clear the front panel of the tower, the display may be rotated between the portrait orientation (see e.g., FIG. 23B) and landscape orientation (see e.g., FIG. 23C). The initial translation of the display relative to the front panel of the tower, in this case, the tilting about the first pivot axis, disengages the pin 810 from the first detent 808a. After rotation to the landscape orientation, display 102 may be translated in the opposite direction, here tilted back to a position in which the display is substantially in the same plane with the front of the panel, this action causing the position limiter (e.g., pin 810) to engage the second detent 808b thereby preventing any accidental rotation of the display while in the first position, thereby preventing any accidental damage to the display.
With reference to FIGS. 24A-24B, a display mount 902 for rotatably and translatably coupling the display 102 to the tower of an exercise system (e.g., system 100) is described. A shaft 910 is mounted to the plate 918, which is operatively coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display 102. A tube 908, which defines a passage 916, is fixed to the mast (e.g., mast 106). The passage 916 is sized to accommodate a sleeve 905. The sleeve 905 defines a passage 917 sized to accommodate the shaft therein. The sleeve 905 is fitted over the shaft 910, and may, in some embodiments, be positioned against the plate 918. Formed on an outer surface of the sleeve 905 is a track 904. The track may follow a curved path configured to enable rotation of the display 102. A follower, implemented in this example by a pin 906, is operatively associated with the tube 908 such that it engages the track 904. For example, the pin 904 is press fit into a hole in the tube 908 such that a portion of the pin 904 extends radially inward within the passage 916. This protruding portion of the pin 904 is received, when assembled, in the track 904. In use, relative movement between the sleeve 905 and the tube 908 is constrained by virtue of the engagement of the pin 90 with the track 904. As such, movement of the sleeve 905 is constrained to a path that couples rotational and translational movement. The display 102 may be biased toward the rearward (or retracted) position. For example, the display 102 may be biased by a spring 914 (e.g., a helical spring acting in compression) which is positioned to exert a spring force between a stopper 912 fixed proximate the rear end of the shaft 910 and the rear side of the tube 908 to urge the stopper 912, and thus the shaft 910, in a rearward direction, consequently pulling the display toward the retracted position.
FIGS. 25A and 25B show a display mount 1002 for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) according to the present disclosure. The display mount 1002 is configured to enable the display 102 to move translation direction 108, in this example forward and aft, to clear other structure of the tower before it is rotated (in the rotation direction 110) between the landscape and portrait orientations. In this example, the display mount is implemented by a shaft 1006 mounted to the plate 1018. The shaft 1006 is received in a receptacle 1004 oriented transversely to the length of the mast 106. The cooperative engagement of the shaft 1006 and receptacle 1004 enable the display to be translated forward and aft of the front panel (not shown) of the exercise system. The display mount 1002 has a detent mechanism for selectively securing or retaining the display in the first and second positions. The detent mechanism in this example is provided by a pop-pin 1010 that includes the pin 1012, arranged transversely to the shaft and which biased into engagement with the shaft 1006 by a spring 1014. A plurality of detents or passages 1016 and 1017 are provided transversely in the shaft 1006 and the pin is configured to engage, at a given, one of the plurality of detents or passages 1016 and 1017 to selectively secure the display in one of the plurality of predetermined positions (e.g., the forward (or extended) and the aft (or retracted) position). The pop pin includes a handle (e.g., a knob) 1020 fixed to the pin for manipulating (e.g., pulling) the pin against the biasing force of the spring.
FIG. 26A shows an exploded view of display mount 1102 and comp for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) and FIG. 26B shows a cross-sectional illustration of the bushing 1104. The display mount 1102 is configured to enable the display 102 to move in the rotation direction 110 and/or translation direction 108, which in this example is aligned with the axis of rotation. The display mount 1102 is provided, in part, by a shaft 1108 fixed to the mounting plate 1118. The shaft is slidably and rotatably received in a receptacle 1110 fixed to the mast 106. A bushing 1104 is slidably received in the passage defined by the receptacle such that the bushing 1104 is slidable along the length of the passage. The bushing has a sufficient length to enable the shaft, and consequently the display, to be pulled out a sufficient distance forward of the mast and panel. In the retracted position, the bushing 1104 may extend aft of the receptacle and a limiter 1112 may be fixed to the aft end of the bushing 1116 to limit the translation of the bushing relative to the passage 1110 in a first direction (e.g., the extension direction). The limiter may include a washer 1113 that secures the limiter 1112 against the mast 106. For example, the washer 1113 may have a diameter larger than an aperture 1115 formed in the mast 106 that receives the bushing 1104. In some embodiments, the bushing 1104 may optionally include a flange on its forward end to limit translation relative to the passage 1110 in the opposite direction (e.g., the retraction direction). The rotational interface is provided by cooperating threads 1120 and 1122 on the shaft 1108 and on the interior of the bushing 1104, respectively. Rotational motion may be limited e.g., by a hard stop provided by pin 1119 or by operative configuration of the threads.
FIG. 27 shows an illustration of a display mount 1202 for an exercise system (e.g., system 100) of the present disclosure. The display mount 1202 is configured to enable a display 102 to be translated and rotated, and in this example, the translation and rotation motions are coupled. In other words, as the display 102 is rotated the display also translated forward or aft, along direction 108. The display mount 1202 include a mounting structure 1218 configured to be coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display. The mounting structure 1218 includes a guide 1206 (e.g., a track which may be provided by a below or above surface slot) along the peripheral wall of the mounting structure 1218, which engages a follower 1208. The guide (e.g., track) 1206 defines a curved path that extends along the outer surface of the mounting structure 1218 circumferentially as well as in the forward/aft direction. The follower 1204 is constrained to move in a vertical path. For example, the follower 1204 may be provided by a pin 1208, received in a slot 1212 that is fixed to the frame of the tower (e.g., to the mast 106) to extend vertically. The pin 1208 may be biased into engagement with the guide 1206. The display mount 1202 is configured to selectively position or maintain the display 102 at any one of a plurality of predetermined positions. In this example, the display is selectively positionable at a first position in which the display is in a portrait orientation and is closer to the mast 106 and in a second positon in which the display is in a landscape orientation and is comparatively farther from to the mast 106. The selective positioning of the display is enabled by the shape of the guide 1206. First and second detents 1210a and 1210b are provided at two different locations along the length of the guide 1206. Engagement of the pin with any of the detents retains the display in the respective position.
FIG. 28A-FIG. 28C show another example of a display mount 1302 which couples the translational and rotational movement of the display. In this embodiment, a pair of followers including a first follower 1304a and a second follower 1304b are fixed to the mounting plate 1318. Each of the followers 1304a and 1304b is engaged with a respective one of the tracks 1306a and 1306b, which are fixed to the mast 106. The first track 1306a is fixed to extend in a first direction (e.g., vertically) and the second track 1306b is fixed to extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., horizontally). As such, the first track 1306a constrains movement of the first follower to the first direction while concurrently the second track 1306b constrains movement of the second follower to the second direction. Thus, as the display 102, and consequently the mounting plate 1318, is manipulated by the user to rotate it, the coupled motion of the first follower 1304a along track 1306a and the second follower 1304b along track 1306b results in a rotational movement of the display coupled with a translation of the display along the translation direction 108. As illustrated, starting in FIG. 28A, when rotating the display from portrait orientation to the landscape orientation, the first follower 1304a initially translates up, along the track 1306a as a result of the follower 1304b translating laterally along the track 1306b, until an inflection point 1308 is reached (see FIG. 28B), following which the further translation of the follower 1304b along the track 1306b causes the first follower 1304a to now translate in the opposite, downward, direction along the track 1306a until the display becomes oriented in the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown in FIG. 28C).
In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to an exercise system having a display (also referred to as a coaching platform), the display being selectively rotatable between at least two rotational positions (or orientations), such as a portrait orientation and a landscape orientation. The exercise system includes a tower which has a base, a front panel, and a mast extending to a height above the front panel. The exercise system further includes a display selectively rotatably mounted to the mast via a display mount. The display mount is configured to support the display in a first position in which the display is adjacent to the front panel and rotation of the display is substantially prevented by the front panel. The display mount is further configured to enable translation of the display relative to the front panel, e.g., responsive to manipulation by the user, to a second position in which rotation of the display is not prevented by the front panel.
FIGS. 29A-29C show front perspective views of an exercise system 5100 according to the present disclosure. The exercise system 5100 includes a tower 5103 having a base 5104. The base 5104 supports the exercise system (e.g., tower 5103) on a support surface such as the ground or floor. In various embodiments, the base 5104 is configured to support the system 5100 as a free-standing unit. That is, in such embodiments the base is configured to stably supported the exercise system on a support surface such as the ground without requiring additional support of the tower, e.g., by leaning against or fixing it to a wall. In some embodiments, optional one or more brackets may be provided to additionally secure the free-standing unit to the building's structure (e.g., a wall). The tower 5103 further includes a front panel 5116 and a mast 5106, which supports a display 5102. The front panel 5116 may be fixed to the base 5104 or it may be movably (e.g., slidably and/or pivotally) coupled thereto. For example, the front panel 5116 may be a door of a cabinet, the door configured to pivot or otherwise move between its closed and open positions. In some embodiments, the front panel 5116 may be a fixed housing that conceals part of the tower's frame (e.g., a portion of the base and/or mas). In various embodiments, the front panel 5116 may provide an aesthetically pleasing (e.g., a seamless) look on the front side of the tower 5103. The display 5102 is mounted to the tower 5103 at a suitable vertical position, e.g., so as to be comfortable for viewing by a user in a standing position. For example, the display 5102 may be supported by the tower (e.g., by an upright support or mast 5106 of the tower 5103) at a height or vertical position that locates the display 5102 (e.g., the lower edge of the display) above the front panel 5116 (e.g., above an upper edge of the front panel 5116). In use, the exercise system 5100 may display any desired video content, for example a live session with a trainer or a pre-recorded video in which a trainer demonstrates an exercise. The demonstrated exercise may, or may not, make use of the one or more exercise weights. In some embodiments, the display is a large size display (e.g., a 43 inch display). This can be advantageous as it can provide a nearly life-size exercise demonstration to the user and/or allowing the user to be a substantial distance away from the display while performing exercise and still be able to comfortably and clearly view the exercise demonstration. The display may display virtually any content, whether related or unrelated to exercise. For example, when not in use for exercise, the display 5102 may display a screen saver (e.g., a digital display of a dial clock or clock of user-selected format, or a decorative image or other audio-visual content unrelated to exercise. In some embodiments, the display may have a width (in at least one position of the display) that is substantially the same as the width of the front panel 5116, which may further enhance the aesthetics of the exercise system. In some embodiments, the width of the display (e.g., in the portrait orientation) may substantially define the overall width of the tower.
The display 5102 is movable relative to the front panel 5116 (e.g., translatable, such as by sliding, relative to the mast) between a first position and a second position. In the first position the display 5102 is adjacent to the front panel, which substantially prevents rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display is adjacent in that the lower edge of the display is substantially against, optionally but not necessarily in contact with, the upper edge of the front panel. The front panel 5116 thus prevents rotation of the display 5102 when in the first position. The display is movable to a second position in which rotation of the display is not prevented by the front panel 5116. For example, the display may be translatable in the vertical direction to a position in which the display is vertically higher above the front panel 5116 than in the first position. In some embodiments, the display may be translatable in the horizontal direction, to a position in which the display is forward of the front panel 5116 whereby rotation of the display 5102 is enabled despite the display remaining at substantially the same vertical position with respect to the front panel as in the first position. In some embodiments, the translation and rotation of the display is effected simultaneously, for example when the user applies a force to rotate the display the display mount causes the display to also translate relative to the front panel.
The display is supported on the tower 5103 by a display mount which is configured to enable the display 5102 to be selectively (e.g., responsive to user force) rotated relative to the front panel 5116. As described herein, the display 5102 is rotatable only when the display is in the second position. In the first position, the display 5102 is adjacent to, although not necessarily in contact with, the front panel 5116 such that the front panel substantially prevents rotation of the display 5102. In some embodiments, the display is adjacent to the front panel in the first position in that the display's lower edge is just above the upper edge of the front panel, which prevents rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the front face of the display may also be substantially flush with a front face of the panel providing a substantially flush (or monolithic) appearance at the front side of the tower, which can provide, among other things, an aesthetic advantage. In some embodiments, moving (e.g., translating such as by sliding) the display relative to the front panel between the first and second positions maintains this flush relationship of the front faces of the display and the front panel. For example, in some embodiments, the display is translated up along the mast thereby providing the lower edge of the display in a spaced-apart relationship with respect to the front panel, while maintaining the front faces of the display and panel substantially flush. In some embodiments, the rear side of the display is aft of the front face of the panel 5116 when in the first position, and the movement (e.g., slidably translating) of the display relative to the mast and front panel to the second position provides the rear side of the display forward of the front panel, enabling rotation of the display. In some such embodiments, when the display is in the second position, the display may remain at substantially the same vertical position. Moving the display from the first position to the second position relative to the front panel, enables the display to be rotated between different orientations (e.g., portrait and landscape, as shown respectively in FIGS. 29A and 29C) which may provide a more suitable orientation for displaying different types of content. The display may be configured for operation in a plurality of different orientations, such as landscape orientation and portrait orientation. In some embodiments, the display of the coaching platform may be sufficiently large to enable viewing of the content from a distance, such as from at least a foot or multiple feet away from the display, which can provide sufficient freedom of movement for the user while performing an exercise. In some embodiments, the display may have an active area (i.e., the area that displays images) sized at about 21 inches by about 37 inches. In some embodiments, the display may have an active area of about 40 inches by about 20 inches. In some embodiments, the display mast may extend from about 20 inches to about 37 inches or more above the height of the front panel of the tower.).
FIGS. 30A-30J show views of one embodiment of a display mount assembly (or simply display mount) 5200 for an exercise system according to the present disclosure, The display mount assembly 5200 may be used to implement the display mount coupling the display 5102 to the mast 5106 of the system 5100 in FIG. 1. The display mount 5200 is configured to enable translation of the display 5102 between the first and second positions, in this case a lowered and elevated positions, respectively. The display mount 5200 also enables rotation of the display 5102 between the first (e.g., portrait) and second (e.g., landscape) orientations. In various embodiments, the display mount may include a first structure coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display and defining a rotational axis of the display. This first structure forms a part of the rotational joint between the display and the mast. The display mount may further include a second structure movably coupled to the mast. This second structure also includes components that form part of the rotation joint, and further includes components that enable movement (e.g., translation) of the first structure and display relative to the mast, and consequently the rest of the tower.
In the embodiment in FIGS. 30A-30J, the display mount 5200 includes a mounting plate (or simply plate) 5218, which may be fixed to the rear side of the display 5102. In some embodiments, the plate 5218 may be movably coupled to the rear side of the display such as to enable tilting of the display, e.g., for adjusting the viewing angle. The display mount 5200 further includes a carriage assembly (or simply carriage) 5220, which includes a carrier 5236 configured to selectively (e.g., responsive to an applied force) translate along the mast, such as to move the mounting plate 5218 and display between the first, in this case the lower, vertical position, and the second, in this case the elevated, vertical position. Movement of the display 5102 in the vertical direction may be limited by one or more suitable components. For example, the mast 5106 may include a bracket 5246 that acts as an upper limit on movement of the display 5102 in the translation direction 5108. In the downward direction, movement of the display may be limited by a similar bracket operatively positioned on the mast below the bracket 5246 and/or by one or more other components of the assembly (e.g., the lift assist device 5248, the bottom edge of slot 5244 which engages the protruding portion of fastener 5224, etc.). Any suitable combination of components may be used to limit translation of the display.
A rotational interface is defined between the mounting plate 5218 and the carrier 5236, and this rotational interface is configured to move up and down as result of the movement of the carrier along the mast. In other embodiments, the carrier may be configured to move in a different direction, such as forward and aft (e.g., parallel to the rotational axis) whereby the rotational interface also moves forward and aft. The mounting plate 5218 includes an aperture 5219 (see FIG. 30C). The aperture 5219 may be centrally located on the plate 5218 and is sized (e.g., has a diameter) to accommodate fastener 5224, which couples the display to the mast and which also defines the rotation axis A of the display (see FIG. 30A). When assembled, the rotation axis A generally coincides with the center of aperture 5219. In use (e.g., when changing the orientation of the display 5102), the display rotates about rotation axis A. In this embodiment, the display is configured to move upward, and consequently the rotation axis A moves upward, relative to the stationary frame (e.g., front panel) to enable rotation of the display.
A collar 5226 is fixed (e.g., welded) to the rear side of the mounting plate 5218. The collar 5226 defines a stepped through-aperture, which enables the fastener 5224 to be inserted into the collar from the front side of the plate 5218 and be accommodated, at least partially within the collar 5226. The fastener 5224 (also referred to herein as carriage bolt 5224) is retained in the collar 5226 by virtue of the narrower aperture on the rear side of the collar. The collar 5226 has a substantially cylindrical side wall 5286 and an end wall 5288, which defines the narrower aperture 5266 of the collar 5226. The walls 5286 and 5288 thus form a recess 5290 within the interior of the collar 5226. The recess 5290 is sized to accommodate one side of the fastener 5224, e.g., the head 5292 of the fastener 5224. The aperture 5266 defined by the wall 5288, which is a through aperture extending through the wall 5288 is sized to prevent the fastener, e.g., when suitably assembled with a washer 5238, to pass through. A sliding rotational interface 5282 (see e.g., FIG. 30E) is provided between the rear side of the collar 5226 and the carriage assembly 5220. For example, a first bushing (also referred to as display bushing) 5230 is provided between the rear side of the collar 5226 and the carrier 5236. The bushing 5230 may be non-rotatably associated with (e.g., keyed to) the collar 5226 so that the bushing moves (e.g., rotates) when the display assembly, including the mounting plate and collar, is rotated. The bushing may be non-rotatably associated with the collar 5226 such as by engaging a keyway 5262 of the collar. The keyway 5262 in the illustrated example extends along the end wall 5288, radially outward from the edge of the aperture 5266 and is sized to receive the key 5264 of the bushing 5230 thereby non-rotatably coupling the bushing 5230. The bushing 5230, when operatively assembled into the pivot joint of the display mount, thereby rotates in unison with the mounting plate 5218.
As previously noted, the carriage assembly 5220 may include a carrier 5236. The carrier 5236 in this example is implemented by a U-shaped bracket that wraps, at least partially, around the mast 5106, which in this example is shown as a substantially rectangular tube. In other embodiments, the carrier 5236 may have a different geometry, such as in the case of a circular/cylindrical mast. The carrier 5236 is coupled to the mast 5106 by the one or more slides 5242. The slides 5242 may be disposed on opposite sides of the mast 5106 from one another. Each slide 5242 may have a first portion 5250 that is fixedly coupled to the mast 5106 and a second portion 5252 fixedly coupled to the carrier 5236. The first portion 5250 and the second portion 5252 may be slidably coupled to one another, such as by a bearing, bushing or any other suitable rolling or sliding coupling element. When actuated, the second portion 5252 may translate in a translation direction 5108 with respect to the first portion 5250 which remains fixed to the mast. As the second portion 5252 translates, it translates certain other components of the carriage assembly 5220 (e.g., the carrier 5236), and consequently the mounting plate 5218 and the display 5102 whereby the display is selectively movable in the translation direction 5108 with respect to the tower (e.g., mast 5106). The carrier 5236 defines an aperture 5271 with a diameter greater than that of the fastener 5224. When assembled, the fastener 5224 extends from the mounting plate 5218 into the carrier 5236 (via the aperture 5271) thus operatively coupling the display to the carriage assembly 5220.
The carrier 5236 may be operatively associated with a lift assist device 5248. The lift assist device 5248 may be a passive device configured to support, at least partially, the weight of the display assembly, such as to aid the user while lifting the assembly to the elevated position. For example, the lift assist device 5248 may be provided by a gas spring or other type pneumatic, hydraulic and/or mechanical shock absorber. This may be particularly advantageous in embodiments of the system that include a large-size display (e.g., a display having a height of 30 inches or more). In some embodiments, the lift assist device 5248 may include any suitable actuator, e.g., a linear actuator, which may be optionally powered such as by a servo or other motor, and which may optionally be actuated responsive to electronic command. The lift assist device 5248 in the present illustrated example is provided by a gas spring arranged to support, at least partially, the weight of the display as the display 5102 is translated in the translation direction 5108. The lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 5248 is oriented substantially vertically, with one end thereof coupled to the carrier 5236 and at the other end to the mast 5106 (e.g., to gas spring bracket 5254, which is fixed to the mast 5106). In a compressed state (e.g., as shown in FIG. 30F), the lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 5248 may impart an upward force that tends to bias the display 5102 upward relative to the mast 5106, such as to ease the raising of the display 5102. In the uncompressed state, the lift assist device (e.g., gas spring) 5248 may act as a damper or shock absorber when the display is lowered (in a direction opposite 5208) to prevent damage of the display or other components of the tower as may be caused by a sudden drop of the display downward. The display mount assembly further includes one or more detents which resist the movement of the display in translation direction 5108, thus resisting the force of the gas spring. The display mount assembly may further include one or more detents which resist rotation of the display, as described further below.
The display mount 5200 is configured to support or position the display 5102 in at least two vertical positions, a first (e.g., lowered) position in which rotation of the display is prevented, and a second (e.g., elevated) position in which rotation of the display is not inhibited by the front panel of the tower. In some embodiments, the display 5102 may be adjustable to a plurality of vertical positions, in at least one of which rotation of the display is not inhibited by the front panel of the tower. To that end, the carrier 5236 includes one or more positioners such as first ball spring 5284 arranged to selectively engage (e.g., by being received in) one of a plurality of detents (e.g., the detents 5260a/b along the length of the mast) in order to arrest or hold the display in one of the two positions (e.g., the lowered and elevated positions). When the display 5102 is translated along the mast, its movement is arrested by the detents at one of the two positions. The detents hold the display in that position until the display is again actuated (by the application of force) to translate it along the mast. In some embodiments, actuation of the display may be by manual force, or it may be applied electronically (e.g., by a servo operatively associated with the lift assist device 5248).
The carrier 5236 may include one or more limiters 5276a/b that cooperate with a corresponding limiter structure (e.g., flange 5228 of the collar 5226) to limit the movement of the display 5102 in the rotation direction 5110. In the illustrated example, the collar 5226 includes a flange 5228 extending radially outward from the side wall 5286 thereof. The flange 5228 cooperates with rotational stops or limiters 5276a/5276b and/or 5278a/5278b on the carrier 5236 to limit the rotation of the display 5102. Any other suitable cooperating structures may be used to limit the rotation of the display 5102. One or both of the limiters 5276a/b may be provided with a respective bumper 5278a/b to dampen or soften impact or contact between the flange 5228 and the carrier 5236. The limiters 5276a/b may be disposed at two different angular locations around the aperture 5271 to define the rotational range of the display. For example, the limiter 5276a may be angularly offset from the limiter 5276b by an angle of about 90 degrees. The bumpers 5278a/b may face one another within the offset angle of the limiters 5276a/b. In another embodiment, the bumpers are provided on the opposing faces of the flange 5228. The flange 5228 is positioned between the limiters 5276a/b and/or bumpers 5278a/b and is substantially free to rotate, as the display is rotated, within the angular range defined by the limiters 5276a/b. Thus, the flange 5228, the limiters 5276a/and/or bumpers 5278a/b may limit the movement of the display 5102 along the rotation direction 5110.
The display mount 5200 is configured to support or position the display 5102 in at least two rotational positions (e.g., the portrait and landscape positions). The mounting plate 5218 may have one or more apertures or detents (e.g., detents 5222a/b) formed therein and suitable to bias the display 5102 in one or more respective rotational positions. To that end, the carrier 5236 includes one or more positioners such as a first ball spring 5280 arranged to selectively engage (e.g., be received in) one or a plurality of detents (e.g., detents 5222a/b arrayed around the aperture 5219 formed in the mounting plate 5218. When the display 5102 is rotated about the aperture 5219, its rotation is arrested by the receipt of the positioner 5280 in one of the detents 5222a/b. In some embodiments, the actuation of the display may be by manual force, or it may be applied electronically (e.g., by a servo operatively associated with the actuator 5248). As described, fastener 5224, which may be operatively used with one or more washer 5238 and nut 5240, couples the mounting plate 5218 to the mast 5106 via the carriage assembly 5220. In some embodiments, the fastener 5224 and/or one or more other components of the assembly may extend beyond the rear side of the carrier 5236 which faces the mast. A slot 5244 may be provided in the mast 5106 to accommodate any protruding components and thus allow the mounting plate, fastener and associated components to move along the length of the mast unobstructed.
In use, as the display 5102 is rotated, the display assembly, which includes the mounting plate 5218, the collar 5226 and the first bushing 5230, slidably rotate, at the rotational interface 5282, relative to the carrier 5236 and components fixed thereto, which may include a second (or carrier) bushing 5234. A second bushing 5234 may be provided on the carrier side of the display mount and form part of the rotational interface 5282. The second bushing (also referred to as carrier bushing) 5234 is non-rotatably coupled to the carrier 5236. Any suitable means for non-rotatably coupling bushing 5234 to the carrier 5236 may be used, such as by having the bushing 5234 be keyed to the carrier 5236, such as by engagement of a key of the bushing with a keyway of the carrier 5236 (e.g., provided on ring 5232 fixed to carrier 5236 coaxially with the aperture 5271). In other embodiments, the locations of the key and keyway may be reversed. In this manner, the bushing 5234 may be non-rotatably and coaxially retained to the aperture 5271 that receives the fastener 5224. The bushing 5234 remains in a fixed position relative to the carrier 5236 when the display is rotated. The bushing 5234 may be retained to the carrier 5236 by a ring 5232 fixed (e.g., welded) to the carrier or other suitable structure. The ring 5232 defines an aperture 5270 which is smaller than the outer diameter of the bushing 5234. An annular protrusion of the bushing 5234 has a diameter smaller than the diameter of aperture 5270 such that the protrusion of the bushing extends through the aperture 5270 to provide, at least partially, the carrier-side of the sliding rotational interface 5282. The bushing 5234 also defines a through passage, having a diameter smaller than the diameter of the nut 5240 and/or optional one or more washers 5238, such that the fastener 5224 can be secured to the carriage assembly, with the bushings 5230 and 5234 retained between the plate 5218 and nut 5240. Other suitable rotational interfaces and components (e.g., an axle in cooperation with one or more bearings) may be used in other embodiments.
In FIG. 30F, the display 5102 is in the lowered position (e.g., as shown in FIG. 29A). The ball spring 5284 engages the detent 5260a to retain the display 5102 in the lowered position. To move the display 5102 to the elevated position, the user (or an actuator) exerts sufficient force to overcome the retention force (e.g., biasing force of the ball spring 5284) thereby releasing the carrier from engagement with detent 5260a allowing the display to move up in the translation direction 5108. As the display 5102 translates relative to the mast, the first portions 5250 of the slides 5242 are fixed, and thus remaining stationary, relative to the mast 5106 while the second portions 5252 of the slides 5242, which are fixed to the carrier, translate together with the carrier along the mast 5106 until the ball spring 5284 engages another detent (e.g., detent 5260b of the elevated position, as shown for example in FIG. 30H). At the elevated position, the ball spring 5284 engages with (e.g., is received in) the detent 5260b to retain the display in the elevated position. Once elevated, the display 5102 can then be rotated relative to the mast 5106 and other components of the tower 5103 (e.g., front panel 5116), as shown for example in FIG. 29C, without the tower (e.g., front panel 5116) interfering with the rotation of the display. As the display is rotated, the ball spring 5280 coupled to the carrier 5236 shifts from engagement with the first detent 5222a into and engagement with the second detent 5222b to retain the display 5102 in the landscape orientation. As described, when the display 5102 is rotated to the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown by rotation direction 5110) or vice versa, the display bushing 5230 slides against the carrier bushing 5234 and/or the forward-most surface of the carrier, in this example provided by the front side of the ring 5232 providing the sliding rotational interface. A rotational force sufficient to overcome the bias of the interface of the detent 5222a/b and the ball spring 5284 may be applied (e.g., by manual force, or through electro-mechanical actuation) to the display 5102 to cause the display 5102 to rotate along the rotation direction 5110 between the portrait position and the landscape position and vice versa.
In various embodiments, an exercise media display system includes a display supported above a support surface by a mast. A carriage assembly is coupled to the display and configured to enable the display to be moved between a portrait orientation and an landscape orientation. The carriage assembly includes a carrier slidably coupled to the mast, a display mounting plate fixedly coupled to the display and rotatably coupled to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carrier is slidably coupled to the mast by a first slide and a second slide disposed on opposite sides of the mast. The carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a translation direction. The rotatable coupling of the display mounting plate and the carrier is configured to enable movement of the display in a rotation direction, as the display moves between the portrait orientation and the landscape orientation. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly defines a first aperture configured to receive a fastener for coupling the display to the carrier. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly further includes a bushing non-rotatably coupled to the carrier. The bushing may be non-rotatably coupled by cooperative engagement of a key of the bushing engaging a keyway, e.g., formed in an edge of the first aperture. In some embodiments, another bushing is non-rotatably coupled to the display mounting plate, and a rotational interface is defined, by the pair of bushings, between the display and the carrier. In some embodiments, the rotational interface comprises a sliding interface wherein opposing surfaces of the pair of bushings slide against each other when the display rotates. In some embodiments, the carriage assembly includes an actuator that assists the motion of the display in the translation direction. In some embodiments, the actuator is coupled at a first end to the carrier and at a second end to the mast. In some embodiments, the collar includes a flange extending radially from a sidewall thereof and arranged to cooperate with first and second shelves fixed to the carrier to limit rotation of the display. In some embodiments, the display mounting plate includes a first detent and a second detent, and the carrier includes a positioner configured to alternatively engage the first detent and the second detent when the display is in the respective one of the first or second positions, to retain the display in the respective one of the first and second positions.
FIGS. 31A-31B, and 32A-32B show display mounts 5300 and 5400, respectively, for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) according to further embodiments herein. The display mounts 5300 and 5400 may be similarly configured to enable rotation of the display relative to the tower (e.g., mast 5106, front panel 5116, etc.) after the display 5102 has been translated relative to the tower (e.g., mast 5106, front panel 5116, etc.). In these examples, however, the display mounts 5300 and 5400 are configured for translating the display forward and aft, e.g., along the rotational axis or a direction parallel thereto. For enabling rotation of the display, the display mounts 5300 and 5400 may provide a similar sliding rotational interface, and thus include the same or similar combination of components, as described in FIGS. 30A-30J. For example, the rotational interface between the display and mast may be provided, in part, by a mounting plate 5218 operatively coupled to the rear side of the display, a rotational axis defining element, such as a fastener 5224 or axle that couples the mounting plate to the carriage assembly (e.g., 5302 in FIGS. 31A-31B and 5402 in FIGS. 32A-32B), and one or more bushings (e.g., annular bushings 5230 and 5234) operatively arranged to be in contact with one another to provide a sliding rotational interface.
The display mounts 5300 and 5400, however, have respective carriage assemblies 5302 and 5402 configured to translate the display transverse to the mast 5106 (e.g., as shown by translation direction 5108), rather than along the length of the mast 5106. The carriage assemblies 5302 and 5402 assembly may include one or more slides 5303 and 5403, respectively which are arranged to enable translation of the mounting plate 5218, and thus the display mounted thereto, in the horizontal plane. In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 31A-31B and 32A-32B, a pair of slides is used, each slide provided on the opposite sides of the mast. In some embodiments, fewer or greater number of slides may be used. The one or more slides 5303 and 5403 are oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the longitudinal direction of the mast 5106, which in this embodiment is oriented substantially vertically. Also, it should be noted in this and other embodiments of the disclosure, while the various carriage assemblies shown illustrate components for operatively (e.g., slidably) coupling to one member (e.g., one tube) of the mast, it is envisioned that in some embodiments, the mast may include multiple members (e.g., two or more tubes and in such embodiments, carriers may be operatively coupled (e.g., slidably, for example vertically or transversely) to multiple members of the mast and then fixed to a carrier mounting plate which may then be rotatably coupled to the display mounting plate, such as via the same or similar rotational interface as described herein.
Each of the slides 5303 and 5403 may be implemented using any suitable arrangement of components. In the example in FIGS. 31A-31B, each of the pair of slides 5303 includes a respective first portion 5304a and 5304b, which may be implemented, in part, by a track configured to capture one or more rollers 5306. The one or more rollers 5306 of each slide 5303 are coupled to respective second portions 5308a and 5308b of the respective slides 5303. The rollers 5306 rollably engage (e.g., are received between the side walls of the track such that they roll along the track but are substantially constrained from translation in any other direction) the respective track. The term roller is used to collectively refer to any suitable rolling element such as a roller, a bearing or the like. The second portions 5308a and 5308b may be implemented by respective rigid members (e.g., side plates) which are part of the, or fixedly coupled to, the carrier 5336. The carrier 5336 may be implemented by any suitable rigid structure, such as a bracket that wraps at least partially around the mast, for example around the sides and top of the mast 5106.
In the example in FIGS. 32A and 32B, each of the pair of slides 5403 similarly includes a respective first portion 5404a and 5404b, which may be implemented, in part, by a track configured to capture at least one sliding element (e.g., bushing) 5406. The sliding element(s) 5406 of each slide 5403 is coupled to the respective second portion (only one second portion 5408b is visible in FIGS. 32A and 32B) of the respective slides 5303. The sliding element 5406 operatively slidably engages its respective track such it can translate along the length of the track, while translation in any other direction is substantially constrained.
Like the carriage assembly of FIGS. 30A-30J, the carriage assemblies of the display mounts 5300 and 5400 may be similarly configured to limit translation of the display and to retain the display, such as by resisting the relative movement of the first and second portions of the slides, in any one of a plurality of predetermined positions. Referring to the example in FIG. 32B, the carriage assembly 5402 may include one or more positioners 5409 (e.g., ball spring(s)) arranged to selectively engage any one of a plurality of detents 5411 to retain the display in any of the plurality of predetermined positions (e.g., the extended position, in which the display is forward of the front panel and the retracted position, in which the display is flush with or behind the front panel). In this example, the detents are provided in a spaced arrangement along the length of the carrier, which is oriented transversely (e.g., perpendicularly) to the length of the mast 5106.
FIGS. 33A-33D illustrate further examples of a display mount 5500 for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) of the present disclosure. The display mount 5500 is configured to enable the mounting plate 5518, and consequently the display 5102 (not shown in these views), to be translated between a first and second position (e.g., as indicated by arrow 5108) and rotated between at least a landscape and portrait orientations (e.g., as indicated by clockwise and counter clockwise rotation direction 5110). The display mount 5500 is configured to enable translation along the direction of the rotational axis, which coincides with the axis of the shaft 5510. In this example, the carriage assembly 5502 is configured to provide both the translation and rotation interfaces. The carriage assembly 5502 includes a first portion (e.g., shaft 5510), which is fixed to the mast, with its axis transverse (e.g., perpendicular) to the length of the mast 5106. The carriage assembly 5502 further includes a second portion (e.g., tube 5506) which is slidably engaged with the shaft. The second portion (e.g., tube 5506) may be fixed to a mounting plate 5518, which in turn is operatively coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display. In the illustrated example, the first portion (e.g., shaft 5510) is slidably and rotatably received within the second portion (e.g., tube 5506). It is envisioned that in other embodiments, the first portion may be a tubular shaft which slidably and rotatably receives the second portion, which is coupled to the display. In this example, the translation and rotation interfaces are provided by the same component(s), e.g., a tubular bushing 5508 disposed inside the tube 5510, between the interior surface of the tube and the shaft 5510. The bushing may be fixed to one of the tube and the shaft, in this example the bushing 5508 is fixed to the tube. In some embodiments, a receptacle 5512, which may be implemented by a tubular rigid member or a U-shaped rigid member, may be coupled (e.g., fixed) to the mast to guide and/or support the second portion (e.g., tube 5506) of the carriage assembly 5502. In use, when changing the orientation of the display, the first portion (e.g., shaft 5510) remains fixed relative to the receptacle 5512 while the second portion (e.g., tube 5506) may slide and rotate relative to the receptacle 5512. In the retracted position, at least a portion of the tube is received within the receptacle 5512 and the receptacle 5512, thus additional supports the weight of the display. To adjust the orientation of the display, the user may pull on the display to cause the mounting plate 5518 and tube to translate horizontally along the shaft, with the tube extending out of the receptacle 5512, if provided. This positions the display forward of the front panel of the tower enabling rotation of the display. Once rotated about the axis of the shaft 5510, the use may retract the display while in the adjusted orientation such that the tube 5506 is again received in, and supported by, the receptacle 5512. A pin 5504 is inserted transverse to the tube 5506. The pin 5504 may act as a limiter on the translational and rotational movement of the display mount. For example, the pin 5504 may cooperate with a guide provided on the receptacle 5512 or other suitable structure to limit the translation and/or rotation of the display. In one embodiment, the pin 5504 is received in one or more slots 5513 formed in the receptacle 5512, the slot(s) being suitably shaped to provide a desired range of translational and rotational movement of the tube and consequently of the display. In some embodiments, the slot 5513 may have a first portion which extends along the axial direction and a second portion that extends in the peripheral direction. The first portion restrict movement of the pin, and consequently the tube and display, to the axial direction, and second portion restrict movement of the pin, and consequently the tube and display, to the rotational direction. The second portion of the slot is connected to the forward end of the first portion, e.g., closest to the display, thereby the movement of the tube, and consequently the display, is restricted by the slot to the axial direction first and then subsequently, when the display is moved sufficiently forward and the pin reaches the forward end of the slot, movement is then restricted to the rotation direction. The pin 5504 may additionally, optionally be operable to engage the shaft 5510/bushing 5508 for retaining the display 5102 in a desired position and/or orientation. In some embodiments, sufficient resistance to relative movement of the tube and shaft may be provided by the bushing 5508 and in some such examples, additional securing (e.g., via the pin 5504) of the display may not be used.
FIGS. 34A-34C and FIG. 34D illustrate display mounts 5600 and 5600′, respectively, for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) of the present disclosure. In this embodiment, the display mounts 5600 and 5600′ use one or more linkages to provide the translation interface or mechanism that enables moving the display forward of the front panel. The display mounts 5600 and 5600′ may include a mounting plate 5618 and 5618′, respectively, which may be coupled to the rear side of the display. The mounting plate may in turn be pivotally connected to the linkage(s) of the display mount at one or more pivot locations. In the example in FIGS. 34A-34C, the display mount 5600 includes a single pivot, provided by a pivotal coupling 5620 between the linkage 5602 and the mounting plate 5618. In the example in FIG. 34D, the rotational interface is provided by a pair of followers 5620 received in an arcuate guide provided on the mounting plate. The arcuate guide may be provided by any suitable structure configured to capture the followers 5620 and restrict the movement of the followers 5620 to a circular path. In the example in FIG. 34D, the arcuate guide is provided by a respective track 5628a and 5628b, each configure to receive and guide a respective one of the followers 5620 along a quarter circular path, which limits the rotation of the display to 90 degrees. In other examples, the guide may be implemented by a single track and/or the rotational range provided by the guide may be greater than 90 degrees. The guide (e.g., tracks 5268a and 5628b) may be implemented as slots formed to extend below the rear surface of the mounting plate 5618′ or by wall projecting outward from the rear surface. Any suitable structure that can restrict the path of the followers 5620 along the desired arcuate path may be used.
In some embodiments, the display mounts 5600 and 5600′ may use the same or substantially similar linkage arrangement. As shown e.g., in FIG. 34B, the linkage 5602 is implemented as a four-bar linkage. The four-bar linkage includes a left and right side that are substantially similar to one another in form and function such that both sides are not described individually, for the sake of conciseness. Referring to the side of four-bar linkage visible in FIG. 34B, the four-bar linkage includes first and second links 5604 and 5608 pivotally coupled to the fixed frame (e.g., the mast 5106). A first end of the first link 5604 is pivotally coupled to the fixed frame at a first pivot point 5614 and the first and of the second link 5608 is pivotally coupled to the fixed frame at a second pivot point 5616. The first and second pivot points 5614 and 5616 are spaced apart from one another and define the fixed link of the four-bar linkage, shown as a virtual link 5606 extending between the two fixed locations of the pivots 5614 and 5616. The second end of the first link 5604 is pivotally coupled to an upper frame 5610 of carriage 5624 to define a third pivot point 5612 and the second end of the second link 5608 is pivotally coupled to a spaced apart location on the upper frame 5610, defining a fourth pivot point 5618. The third and fourth pivot points 5612 and 5618 are spaced apart, in this embodiment by the same distance as the two pivot points 5614 and 5616, thereby the floating link 5611 of the four bar linkage therebetween. In use, when the display is translated between the first and second positions, the first and second links 5604 and 5608, each pivots about the respective one of the first and second pivot points 5614 and 5616. Concurrently, the upper frame 5610, and consequently the floating link 5611, is pivotally displaced relative to each of the links 5604 and 5608, at the pivot points 5612 and 5618, allowing the upper frame 5610, and consequently floating link 5611, to translate in the forward/aft direction (or horizontally). The upper frame 5610 connects the second (or upper) ends of the pivoting links 5604 and 5608. In this example, the upper frame 5610 is generally U-shaped and provides the floating links of each of the two sides of the four-bar linkage. In some embodiments, the carriage 5624 may include a lower frame 5626 proximate the first (or lower) ends of the pivoting links 5604 and 5608. The lower frame 5626 may be substantially parallel to the upper frame 5610, and may have a similar a U-shape. The upper and lower frames 5610 and 5626 may be fixed to one another, e.g., via vertical members, to form the carriage 5603. In embodiments of the display mount 5600′ which uses a two pivot coupling between the display and carriage, one of the two followers may be supported (e.g., fixed to) the lower frame 5626.
FIGS. 35A and 35B illustrate further examples of a display mount 5700 for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) of the present disclosure. Like other embodiments herein, the display mount 5700 is configured to enable the mounting plate 5718, and consequently the display 5102 (not shown in these views), to be translated between a first and second position (e.g., as indicated by arrow 5108) and rotated between at least a landscape and portrait orientations (e.g., as indicated by clockwise and counter clockwise rotation direction 5110). Like the display mount 5500, the display mount 5700 is configured to enable translation along the direction of the rotational axis, which coincides with the axis of the shaft 5706. In this example, a shaft 5706 is coupled (e.g., fixed) to the mounting plate 5718 and is received in a tube 5710, which is fixed to the mast 5106. The tube 5710 may have any suitable cross-section, for example a cylindrical or a box cross-section. The shaft 5706 is rotatably and translatable received in the tube 5710, which in this example is through the use of rolling elements (e.g., balls 5709). A plurality of rolling elements may be distributed circumferentially about the shaft, between the shaft and the tube. In some embodiments, the rolling elements are grouped into sets (e.g., first set 5704a and second set 5704b), the sets being spaced from one another along the length of the tube 5710. The rolling elements (e.g., balls 5709) provide a rolling interface or engagement between the tube 5710 and the shaft 5706 where by the shaft can be both rotated about and translated along its axis.
With reference to FIGS. 36A-36C, a display mount 5800 for an exercise system is disclosed. The display mount 5800 includes a pivoting assembly 5802 that enables the display to be tilted (in the direction 5108) and then rotate (in the direction 5110) in order to reconfigure the display between the landscape and portrait orientations. In this embodiment, the pivoting assembly 5802 includes two rotational joints with two different rotational axes, a first, fixed rotational axis that is oriented horizontally and a moving rotational axis which is perpendicular to the first rotational axis. The first rotational axis is defined by the pivot joint 5804 that pivotally couples the lug 5805 to the mast 5106. The display mount includes a mounting plate 5818 configured to be fixed to the rear side of the. A rotation joint 5812 is provided between the mounting plate 5818 and the lug 5804. The rotational joint 5812 may be implemented using the rotational interface described with reference to FIGS. 30A-30J or using any other suitable arrangement, for example via a shaft extending perpendicular to the plate 5818 and operatively engaged with a suitable bearing (e.g., a bushing). The range of rotation of the pivoting assembly 5802 may be limited by the cooperative and selective engagement between a pin 5810 or other suitable structure with any one of a plurality of detents (e.g., first detent 5808a and second detent 5808b). In use, after the display is tilted at pivot joint 5804 to clear the front panel of the tower, the display may be rotated between the portrait orientation (see e.g., FIG. 36B) and landscape orientation (see e.g., FIG. 36C). The initial translation of the display relative to the front panel of the tower, in this case, the tilting about the first pivot axis, disengages the pin 5810 from the first detent 5808a. After rotation to the landscape orientation, display 5102 may be translated in the opposite direction, here tilted back to a position in which the display is substantially in the same plane with the front of the panel, this action causing the position limiter (e.g., pin 5810) to engage the second detent 5808b thereby preventing any accidental rotation of the display while in the first position, thereby preventing any accidental damage to the display.
With reference to FIGS. 37A-37B, a display mount 5902 for rotatably and translatably coupling the display 5102 to the tower of an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) is described. A shaft 5910 is mounted to the plate 5918, which is operatively coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display 5102. A tube 5908, which defines a passage 5916, is fixed to the mast (e.g., mast 5106). The passage 5916 is sized to accommodate a sleeve 5905. The sleeve 5905 defines a passage 5917 sized to accommodate the shaft therein. The sleeve 5905 is fitted over the shaft 5910, and may, in some embodiments, be positioned against the plate 5918. Formed on an outer surface of the sleeve 5905 is a track 5904. The track may follow a curved path configured to enable rotation of the display 5102. A follower, implemented in this example by a pin 5906, is operatively associated with the tube 5908 such that it engages the track 5904. For example, the pin 5904 is press fit into a hole in the tube 5908 such that a portion of the pin 5904 extends radially inward within the passage 5916. This protruding portion of the pin 5904 is received, when assembled, in the track 5904. In use, relative movement between the sleeve 5905 and the tube 5908 is constrained by virtue of the engagement of the pin 90 with the track 5904. As such, movement of the sleeve 5905 is constrained to a path that couples rotational and translational movement. The display 5102 may be biased toward the rearward (or retracted) position. For example, the display 5102 may be biased by a spring 5914 (e.g., a helical spring acting in compression) which is positioned to exert a spring force between a stopper 5912 fixed proximate the rear end of the shaft 5910 and the rear side of the tube 5908 to urge the stopper 5912, and thus the shaft 5910, in a rearward direction, consequently pulling the display toward the retracted position.
FIGS. 38A and 38B show a display mount 51002 for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) according to the present disclosure. The display mount 51002 is configured to enable the display 5102 to move translation direction 5108, in this example forward and aft, to clear other structure of the tower before it is rotated (in the rotation direction 5110) between the landscape and portrait orientations. In this example, the display mount is implemented by a shaft 51006 mounted to the plate 51018. The shaft 51006 is received in a receptacle 51004 oriented transversely to the length of the mast 5106. The cooperative engagement of the shaft 51006 and receptacle 51004 enable the display to be translated forward and aft of the front panel (not shown) of the exercise system. The display mount 51002 has a detent mechanism for selectively securing or retaining the display in the first and second positions. The detent mechanism in this example is provided by a pop-pin 51010 that includes the pin 51012, arranged transversely to the shaft and which biased into engagement with the shaft 51006 by a spring 51014. A plurality of detents or passages 51016 and 51017 are provided transversely in the shaft 51006 and the pin is configured to engage, at a given, one of the plurality of detents or passages 51016 and 51017 to selectively secure the display in one of the plurality of predetermined positions (e.g., the forward (or extended) and the aft (or retracted) position). The pop pin includes a handle (e.g., a knob) 51020 fixed to the pin for manipulating (e.g., pulling) the pin against the biasing force of the spring.
FIG. 39A shows an exploded view of display mount 51102 and comp for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) and FIG. 39B shows a cross-sectional illustration of the bushing 51104. The display mount 51102 is configured to enable the display 5102 to move in the rotation direction 5110 and/or translation direction 5108, which in this example is aligned with the axis of rotation. The display mount 51102 is provided, in part, by a shaft 51108 fixed to the mounting plate 51118. The shaft is slidably and rotatably received in a receptacle 51110 fixed to the mast 5106. A bushing 51104 is slidably received in the passage defined by the receptacle such that the bushing 51104 is slidable along the length of the passage. The bushing has a sufficient length to enable the shaft, and consequently the display, to be pulled out a sufficient distance forward of the mast and panel. In the retracted position, the bushing 51104 may extend aft of the receptacle and a limiter 51112 may be fixed to the aft end of the bushing 51116 to limit the translation of the bushing relative to the passage 51110 in a first direction (e.g., the extension direction). The limiter may include a washer 51113 that secures the limiter 51112 against the mast 5106. For example, the washer 51113 may have a diameter larger than an aperture 51115 formed in the mast 5106 that receives the bushing 51104. In some embodiments, the bushing 51104 may optionally include a flange on its forward end to limit translation relative to the passage 51110 in the opposite direction (e.g., the retraction direction). The rotational interface is provided by cooperating threads 51120 and 51122 on the shaft 51108 and on the interior of the bushing 51104, respectively. Rotational motion may be limited e.g., by a hard stop provided by pin 51119 or by operative configuration of the threads.
FIG. 40 shows an illustration of a display mount 51202 for an exercise system (e.g., system 5100) of the present disclosure. The display mount 51202 is configured to enable a display 5102 to be translated and rotated, and in this example, the translation and rotation motions are coupled. In other words, as the display 5102 is rotated the display also translated forward or aft, along direction 5108. The display mount 51202 include a mounting structure 51218 configured to be coupled (e.g., fixed) to the rear side of the display. The mounting structure 51218 includes a guide 51206 (e.g., a track which may be provided by a below or above surface slot) along the peripheral wall of the mounting structure 51218, which engages a follower 51208. The guide (e.g., track) 51206 defines a curved path that extends along the outer surface of the mounting structure 51218 circumferentially as well as in the forward/aft direction. The follower 51204 is constrained to move in a vertical path. For example, the follower 51204 may be provided by a pin 51208, received in a slot 51212 that is fixed to the frame of the tower (e.g., to the mast 5106) to extend vertically. The pin 51208 may be biased into engagement with the guide 51206. The display mount 51202 is configured to selectively position or maintain the display 5102 at any one of a plurality of predetermined positions. In this example, the display is selectively positionable at a first position in which the display is in a portrait orientation and is closer to the mast 5106 and in a second positon in which the display is in a landscape orientation and is comparatively farther from to the mast 5106. The selective positioning of the display is enabled by the shape of the guide 51206. First and second detents 51210a and 51210b are provided at two different locations along the length of the guide 51206. Engagement of the pin with any of the detents retains the display in the respective position.
FIG. 41A-FIG. 41C show another example of a display mount 51302 which couples the translational and rotational movement of the display. In this embodiment, a pair of followers including a first follower 51304a and a second follower 51304b are fixed to the mounting plate 51318. Each of the followers 51304a and 51304b is engaged with a respective one of the tracks 51306a and 51306b, which are fixed to the mast 5106. The first track 51306a is fixed to extend in a first direction (e.g., vertically) and the second track 51306b is fixed to extend in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction (e.g., horizontally). As such, the first track 51306a constrains movement of the first follower to the first direction while concurrently the second track 51306b constrains movement of the second follower to the second direction. Thus, as the display 5102, and consequently the mounting plate 51318, is manipulated by the user to rotate it, the coupled motion of the first follower 51304a along track 51306a and the second follower 51304b along track 51306b results in a rotational movement of the display coupled with a translation of the display along the translation direction 5108. As illustrated, starting in FIG. 41A, when rotating the display from portrait orientation to the landscape orientation, the first follower 51304a initially translates up, along the track 51306a as a result of the follower 51304b translating laterally along the track 51306b, until an inflection point 51308 is reached (see FIG. 41B), following which the further translation of the follower 51304b along the track 51306b causes the first follower 51304a to now translate in the opposite, downward, direction along the track 51306a until the display becomes oriented in the landscape orientation (e.g., as shown in FIG. 41C).
In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to an exercise system and more specifically to a fitness coaching platform or system having a large coaching panel which includes at least one video display configured to display video content, biometric data associated with the user and any other information or content to facilitate a user performing exercise (collectively referred to as fitness content). The at least one video display is in communication with a processor which controls the displaying and/or generation and fitness content on the display. In some embodiments, the at least one video display is positioned in close proximity (e.g., adjacent to or at least partially underneath) a mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror is part of a glass pane, a non-mirror portion of which covers the display to provide a substantially continuous, seamless user-facing surface of the coaching panel. In some embodiments, the at least one display and the mirror are separate components operatively joined to a common frame such that they are positioned to be viewed at the same time by a user performing exercise in proximity to coaching system. In some embodiments, the display and the mirror are movably coupled to the frame to provide different viewing angles. In some embodiments, the display and the mirror are each individually and independently adjustable, such as to vary the viewing angle of either one of the display and the mirror independent of the other. In some embodiments, the viewing angle of one of the display and mirror is adjustable, while the other remains in a fixed position with respect to the frame. In some embodiments, the coaching platform may have a stowed configuration in which the mirror is movable to a position in which the mirror at least partially covers or conceals at least a portion of the display. In some embodiments, the display and/or the mirror may be movable (e.g., rotatable), in some cases independent of one another, for reasons other than adjusting a viewing angle. For example, the mirror may be movable out of the way to expose the display, a storage cabinet behind the mirror, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the display may be rotatable to change the orientation of the display (i.e. between portrait and landscape) without, or independently of, changing a viewing angle of the display. In some embodiments, the display and mirror provide a large size coaching panel, which may approximately the height of an adult human (e.g., at least about 5 feet) or taller, and which is some embodiments is provided as a separate free-standing unit, which is independent of (e.g., not supported by) an exercise machine. In some embodiments, the free-standing unit is configured to be stably supported on a horizontal support surface such as the floor. In other embodiments, the frame of the coaching platform may be configured for additionally or alternatively being mount to a wall. In some embodiments, the coaching panel (e.g., display(s) and mirror) is sufficiently large to provide a reflection of substantially the full body of the user, e.g., when the user is at a distance of no more than about 5 feet from the coaching panel. Various embodiments of the coaching platform or system are now described in further details with reference to the figures.
FIGS. 42A and 42B show an embodiment of a coaching system 6100 according to the present disclosure. The coaching system 6100 includes a coaching panel 6102 supported on a frame 6104. In this embodiment, the frame 6104 is configured to stably support the coaching panel 6102 on a horizontal surface such as the floor whereby the coaching platform is a free-standing unit. In this embodiment, the coaching panel 6102 is pivotally mounted to the frame 6104, via a pivot joint 6108, to allow the user to adjust the viewing angle thereof, e.g., for optimal viewing for different types of exercises such as standing or floor-based exercises. The frame 6104 includes a base 6103 and a casing 6105 which is fixed to and extends upward (e.g., vertically) from the base 6103. In the embodiment in which the panel 6102 is in a nominal (e.g., substantially vertically-oriented) position, the casing 6105 substantially encircles the perimeter of the coaching panel 6102. In other examples, the casing 6105 may be provided by a pair of spaced apart bars that extend upward (e.g., vertically) from the base, and which may or may not be joined to one another at the top. In some embodiments, the frame members forming the casing may have a width substantially corresponding to the thickness of the panel 6102. In other embodiments, the frame members of the casing are narrower than the thickness of the panel 6102 and the panel 6102 may thus protrude forward and/or aft of the casing in the nominal position.
The coaching panel 6102 includes a mirrored portion (or simply mirror) 6120 and at least one display 6110, which in this embodiment is provided in the upper portion of the coaching panel 6102. In other embodiments, the display 6110 may be located elsewhere and/or the coaching panel 6102 may include multiple displays (e.g., two distinct, or separately-controlled, displays arranged side by side or one elevationally above the other). In some embodiments, one display is spaced apart from a second display by a mirrored portion of the coaching panel. The one or more displays 6110 are configured to display fitness content, which may include a fitness video or any other type of video content (e.g., pre-recorded or streaming live), biometric data or information derived at least in part from the biometric data, coaching, which may be personalized to the user (e.g., based on the biometric data, a user profile, user tracking for example while exercising near the coaching platform, etc.). The display(s) 6110 may be implemented using any suitable combination of display unit(s) using technologies such as, but not limited, liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting diode (LED) display, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, plasma display panel (PDP), quantum dot display (QLED), and others.
A glass pane 6107 extends substantially the full length of the coaching panel 6102. That is, the glass pane 6107 extends over the display and mirror portion of the coaching panel 6102 to provide a smooth continuous user-facing surface of the coaching panel 6102. In some embodiments, the mirror 6120 is provided by a portion of the single glass pane 6107, which also covers the display. In this example, the mirrored portion 6120 does not extend over the display. The upper edge of the mirror 6120 is vertically adjacent to or below the lower edge of the display 6110. In other embodiments, as will be described further below, the mirrored portion may extend over the display at least partially, such as in the example in FIGS. 43A-43D, or fully such as in the example in FIGS. 44A and 44B.
The mirror height (HM) and the overall height (HP) of the coaching panel which includes the height of the display (HD) may vary in different examples. In one embodiment, a coaching panel having a HP of about 70 inches and includes a 27-inch display provides a mirror having a HM of 48 inches. In another embodiment, a coaching panel with a HP of 74 inches and a 27-inch display may provide a mirror having a HM of 53 inches such as to accommodate taller users. In some embodiments, the width of the coaching panel may be in the range from about 48 inches (e.g., for the smaller (or shorter) panel) to about 53 inches (e.g., for a lager (or taller) panel).
In some embodiments, the coaching panel 6102 includes an integrated speaker assembly (e.g., a sound bar) 6112 (see e.g., FIGS. 42A and 42C). The speaker assembly 6112 may be integrated into the coaching panel 6102 such that it pivots together with the mirror and display. In other embodiments, in which the display and mirror are adjustable separately, the speaker assembly may be integrated with the mirror portion of the panel to pivot together with the mirror, or it may be incorporated with the display panel and pivot with the display panel. In some embodiments, the speaker assembly is integrated into the frame and remains fixed relative to the frame and adjusting the viewing angle of the mirror and/or display. The speaker assembly may be provided at any suitable location, for example at the lower end of the coaching panel. In the embodiment in FIG. 42C, the speaker assembly 6112 is integrated into the coaching panel at a location spaced apart from the display. In this example, the speaker assembly (e.g., sound bar) is near the lower edge 6109 of the panel 6102 and separated from the display 6110 by the mirror 6120. One or more speaker port(s) may be provided at the lateral sides, below the lower edge 6109, or exposed through one or more openings in the glass pane 6107. In other embodiments, the speaker assembly may be located in a different suitable location.
In the example in FIGS. 42A-42D, the coaching panel 6102 includes an active area, which is configured to selectively display content. The active area is provided by the display(s) 6110. The coaching panel 6102 has a passive area which does not display content but is instead configured to reflect object (e.g., a user 6101) in front of the coaching panel. In this example, the mirror 6120 does not overlap (or overlie) any portion of the display 6110 and thus the height of the active area corresponds substantially to the display height HD and the height of the passive area of the panel 6102 corresponds substantially to the mirror height HM. In such examples, the overall height (HP) of the pivoting panel 6102 may thus correspond substantially to the sum of HD and HM, plus the height of the optional speaker assembly 6112 (e.g., sound bar) if one is included. As previously described, the display 6110 may be configured to selectively display content. In some embodiments, the display 6110 is configured to present video content 6122 and customized content 6124 (e.g., a display of biometric data 6126 and/or content, such as coaching, personalized based on the biometric data or other user-specific information). In some embodiments, the customized content 6124 (e.g., biometric data 6126) may be displayed concurrently with video content 6122, for example adjacent to or as a picture-in-picture (PIP) element 6121 overlaying the video window on the display 6110.
FIGS. 43A-43E show another example of a coaching system 6200 according to the present disclosure. Similar to coaching system 6100, the coaching system 6200 includes a coaching panel 6202, which is pivotally mounted to a frame 6104. The frame 6104 may include a base 6103 for stably supporting the coaching panel 6202 onto a support surface such as the floor, whereby the system 6200 is provided as a free-standing unit. The coaching panel 6202 is pivotally coupled to an upright frame (e.g., a casing 6105 similar to the one described with reference to system 6100). The coaching panel 6202 may include an integrated speaker assembly 6112, such as a sound bar. The coaching panel 6202 may be provided in various suitable dimensions, e.g., to accommodate an average adult user. In some embodiments, the coaching panel may include a 32-inch display and have a width of about 24 inches, with an overall height (HP) of about 70 inches. A coaching panel with different dimensions and a different size display may be provided in other examples. For example, the overall height (HP) of the coaching panel may range from about 60 inches to about 74 inches in various embodiments herein.
The coaching panel 6202 includes a display 6210 and a mirror 6220 which overlap. In this embodiment, the mirror 6220 overlaps the display 6210 only partially. Similar to the system 6100, a continuous (e.g., seamless) glass pane 6107′ spans the active and passive portions of the coaching panel. In this example, the glass pane 6107′ substantially fully covers the front of the display 6210, the lower part of which is positioned behind the mirrored (or reflective) portion of the glass pane 6107′. The reflectivity of the glass pane 6107′ is different at different height locations. The upper portion of the glass pane 6107′, indicated by HG in FIG. 43B, which covers the upper portion 6213 of the display 6210 has lower reflectivity than the lower portion of pane 6107′ covering the lower portion of the display 6210. In some examples, the upper portion HG of the glass pane is substantially clear. In this example and other examples herein (e.g., in system 6100), the glass pane 6107′ may terminate at a vertical location spaced above the lower edge of the coaching panel 6202, e.g., to expose one or more speaker(s) of the speaker assembly (e.g., a sound bar). The speaker(s) may be covered by speaker cloth or any other suitable cover. The coaching system 6200 is configured as a free-standing unit having a coaching panel which is sufficiently large to substantially fit the reflection of a typical user (e.g., an adult person). In one non-limiting example, the coaching panel 6202 has approximate dimensions as shown in FIG. 43E. In this example, the coaching panel includes a 43-inch display, of which an upper portion (e.g., about 9 inches of its height) is exposed under the substantially clear glass portion, while the remaining approximately 29 inches is under the mirror portion of the glass. The width of the coaching panel (e.g., panel 6102 or 6202) may range from about 20 inches to about 50 inches. In the example in FIG. 43E, the width is approximately 21.5 inches. The glass terminates at about 6 inches above the lower edge of the panel 6202 exposing the speaker(s) associated with the speaker assembly, which in this example is located at the bottom of the panel 6202.
The active portion of the coaching panel 6202 (e.g., the display 6210) is configured to selectively (e.g., responsive to user-provided command) display fitness content, including but not limited to video content (e.g., pre-recorded videos, live streaming content, video coaching, etc.) and/or customized information including or based on biometrics of the user and/or other user-specific information. In some embodiments, customized information (e.g., biometrics 6124 and/or user-customized coaching content 6128 such as form feedback which may be customized based on tracking the user's motion) may be displayed in the upper, clear portion of the display 6210. In some embodiments, the upper portion of the display may be associated with brighter backlighting to provide a brighter display in the clear glass portion of the panel 6202. In some embodiments, the customized information (e.g., biometrics 6124) is displayed elsewhere, e.g., near the bottom portion of the display as shown in FIG. 43B. In some embodiment, the fitness content 6123 is displayed such that it overlaps, at least partially, a reflection 6125 of the user. In some embodiments, the coaching panel is further equipped with a voice interface for commanding functions of the coaching platform (e.g., the start and end of content display, pausing an exercise routine, etc.) In some embodiments, the voice interface includes one or more microphones (e.g., arranged around a perimeter of the coaching panel 6202), which are operatively coupled to the processor(s) of the coaching system 6200 to enable detection and recognition of voice commands. The coaching panel 6202 may be further equipped with a tracking system that tracks the user's motion, e.g., for customizing the content 6122. The tracking system may be camera based and may include one or more cameras (e.g., stereo cameras) operatively positioned to capture the user within their field of view. Images (e.g., stills and/or video) captured by the camera(s) may be processed using machine vision, artificial intelligence, or any other suitable algorithms to detect different features of the user's form so as to generate and provide biometric data and/or form feedback on the display.
FIGS. 44A and 44B shows another example of an exercise or coaching system 6300 having a substantially full-height coaching panel 6302, provided as a free-standing unit. In some embodiments, the coaching panel 6302 is movably coupled to a frame 6104 to enable positional adjustments (e.g., rotation about a horizontal axis to vary the viewing angle for differently situated users). In some embodiments, the frame 6104 further includes an accessory support 6144, for example an elevated stand, configured to stably support an exercise accessory, such as free weighs (e.g., dumbbells, barbell, kettlebell), at an elevated position which may enhance the ergonomics of the exercise system 6300. In some embodiments, the base 6103 of the system 6300 has a sufficiently small footprint to enable the user to place an exercise machine (e.g., a bike) or other exercise equipment (e.g., an exercise bench) in close proximity to the coaching panel 6302 for utilizing the coaching features (e.g., displaying of fitness content) thereof. In the example in FIGS. 44A and 44B, the coaching panel 6302 similarly includes at least one display 6310 (e.g., a 27-inch display or any other display having substantially the same width as the width of the panel 6302) and a mirror 6320. In this example, the mirror 6320 fully overlays the display 6310. In other words, the display 31 is positioned to be fully behind the mirrored portion of the glass pane 6107″. When the display 6310 is inactive (i.e. powered off or in standby mode such that no content is displayed on it) the entire front surface of the glass pane 6107″ functions as a mirror. The reflectivity of the glass pane 6107″ is substantially the same across its full area.
As previously noted, the coaching panel or portions thereof (e.g., the display, the mirrored, or each of the display and mirrored panel independently) may be movably supported on the frame of the coaching system to enable the user to adjust its position relative to the frame, e.g., for different viewing angles and/or for changing an orientation of the display (e.g., between portrait and landscape). FIGS. 45A-45G show various views of a unitary coaching panel 6402 (e.g., having a mirror and display integrated together into a unitary panel), which is movably supported on a frame 6404, such as for adjusting the position/orientation of the panel and thus the viewing angle. FIG. 45A shows a simplified drawing of the front side of the coaching panel 6402 of system 6400. FIGS. 45B, 45C and 45D show side views of the coaching system 6400 with the panel 6402 being positioned in three different positions/orientations, namely a nominal (or substantially vertical) position, an upwardly-oriented position and a downwardly-oriented positioned, respectively. The views in FIGS. 45B-45D illustrate examples of vertical adjustments to the viewing angle, e.g., for better viewing, from different vertical viewing locations. The coaching panel 6402 may be pivotally mounted to the frame 6404 using any suitable mount 6444, which enables rotation of the panel about a horizontal axis. In some embodiments, the mount 6444 may be implemented by a swivel mount that includes a ball joint 6446 for rotatably adjusting the coaching panel about a vertical axis such as to provide viewing angle adjustment for optimal viewing from different horizontal positions. The mount 6444 for rotatably mounting the display may be implemented using any of the examples in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 63/6131,6622, filed on Dec. 29, 62020 and titled “Swivel Mount For Display of Exercise Machine,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
In some embodiments, and referring for example to the coaching system 6500 in FIGS. 46A and 46B, the display 6510 is separate from the mirror 6520 and is independently mounted to the frame 6504, in some cases movably mounted thereto. In some embodiments, the mirror 6520 is fixed while the display is movable (e.g., pivotable). In other embodiments, both the display 6510 and mirror 6520 are movable/adjustable, independent of one another. Referring to FIG. 46B, the display 6510 may be operatively coupled proximate the upper edge of the mirror 6520 via a mount 6545 configured for repositioning (e.g., rotating) the display with respect to the frame 6504. Any suitable mount 6545 may be used, for example a swivel mount according to any of the examples in aforementioned U.S. Ser. No. 63/6131,6622. In some examples, the mount 6545 may be implemented by a linkage, e.g., including a first rigid link 6546 pivotally mounted to the frame 6504 and a second rigid link 6548 pivotally mounted to the first rigid link 6546, e.g., to the free end of the link 6546. The other end of the second rigid link is mounted to the rear side of the display 6510, in some cases pivotally mounted thereto. A linkage such as the one in the example in FIG. 46B may advantageously enable positioning the display 6510 at least partially in front of the mirror while also enabling adjustments to the viewing angle.
In another example shown in the simplified side illustration of a coaching system 6600 in FIG. 47, the mirror 6620 is mounted to the frame 6604 independently of the display 6610. The display 6610 is pivotally mounted to the frame via a first mount 6646, and the mirror 6620 is mounted by second mount 6644. In some embodiments, the mount 6644 may be configured to allow the mirror 6620 to pivot about a horizontal axis A, for adjusting the viewing angle upward and downward. In some embodiments, the mount 6644 may be implemented by a swivel mount to enable the mirror 6620 to be rotated and thus adjusted about different axes, e.g., for upward, downward and lateral adjustments. In some embodiments, the mount 6644 may be implemented by a linkage providing the desired range of adjustments. In some embodiments, the mount 6646 may be implemented by a rigid link 6647 pivotally coupled to the frame 6604 at a location above the mirror 6620. The mounts of the mirror and/or display (or an integrated coaching panel that fixes the display relative to the mirror) may include or be operatively associated with a rotational resistance brake or other suitable mechanism to selectively retain the respective panel (e.g., display panel, mirror panel, or combined mirror/display panel) in the adjusted position. Various examples of retention mechanisms that can be used with a swivel mount, for example, are described in the aforementioned U.S. Ser. No. 63/6131,6622 incorporated herein by reference.
In some embodiments, the coaching platform may have a stowed (or OFF) configuration in which the mirrored panel at least partially covers or conceals at least a portion of the display, typically used when the display is in an inactive state (e.g., powered off or in standby mode). In some such embodiments, the position of the mirrored panel is adjustable (e.g., vertically, laterally and/or pivotally) independently of the display, which may remain fixed relative to the frame in both the OFF and the ON configuration, or which may be adjustable independent from any adjustments made to the mirror. FIGS. 48A-48G show simplified views of a coaching system 6700 that includes a display 6710 and mirror 6720 separately mounted to a common frame 6704 whereby the display 6710 and mirror 6720 together provide a coaching panel 6702 which may be supported as a free-standing unit by the frame 6704 onto a horizontal support surface 6701 (e.g., the floor). FIGS. 48A and 48B show front and side views of the coaching system 6700 in a stowed configuration, in which the mirror 6720 is positioned in front of the display 6710 such that the mirror 6720 substantially fully conceals the display 6710 from the view of a user standing in front of the system 6700. In other embodiments, the articulation of the mounts of the mirror and/or display, the size of the display and mirror panels, or both may be different and may provide a stowed configuration in which the mirror only partially covers or conceals the display.
As seen in FIG. 48B, the mirror 6720 is movably mounted to the frame 6704 via an articulating mount 6744 (e.g., a linkage comprising one or more rigid links pivotally coupled to the frame and/or one another). The display 6710 is mounted to the frame 6704 via a second mount 6746, such as another articulating mount or any other suitable mount (e.g., a simple, pivot mount, a swivel mount or other) enabling viewing angle adjustments to the display. In the stowed (or OFF) configuration, the display 6710 is located between the rear side of the mirror and the frame. The coaching system may be provided into the stowed (or OFF) configuration when the display 6710 is inactive (i.e., power off or in standby). In some embodiments, the system 6700 is configured to automatically provide the display 6710 in an inactive state when the mirror 6720 is moved from a deployed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 48C) to the stowed configuration (e.g., FIGS. 48A-48B). In some embodiments, the system 6700 is configured to automatically activate the display 6710 when the mirror 6720 is moved from a stowed configuration to a deployed (or ON) configuration in which the display is visible from the front side of the system, e.g., as shown in FIG. 48C. That is, in some embodiments, moving the mirror 6720 (e.g., pulling it down towards the surface 6701) to reveal the display 6710 may automatically activate the display (e.g., powering it up, transitioning it to standby mode or providing it in a state ready for displaying content). In some embodiments, the display 6710 and mirror 6720 have substantially the same width such that when the system 6700 is provided in the deployed configuration, a substantially rectangular coaching panel 6702 is provided. In a nominal ON configuration, both the display 6710 and the mirror 6720 are oriented substantially vertically, thus the coaching panel 6702 has a substantially vertical front face as shown in FIG. 48D. The display 6710 and the mirror 6720 are each independently adjustable as shown in FIGS. 48E, 48F and 48G. In some embodiments, the second mount 6746 which mounts the display 6710 to the frame 6704 may be an articulating mount (e.g., similar to the one illustrated in FIGS. 46B and 47), allowing the display 6710 to be positioned at least partially in front of the mirror once the mirror 6720 has been moved out of the way (e.g., lowered to uncover the display 6710).
FIGS. 49A-49C show another example of a coaching system 6800 which is reconfigurable between a stowed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 49A-49B), and one or more deployed configurations (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 49C-49F). The system 6800 includes a mirror 6820 and a display 6810, each of which is provided on a different panel, independently mounted to the frame 6804 such that the mirror 6820 and/or display 6810 are independently movable relative to the frame 6804. In deployed configurations (see e.g., FIGS. 49C-49D and 49E-49F), the display 6810 and mirror 6820 are arranged generally side by side, rather than one vertically above the other as was the case in the prior example.
The display 6810 is mounted to the frame 6804 such that it is behind the mirror 6820 when stowed. In some embodiments, the display 6810 may be mounted to remain fixed to the frame 6804. In the present example, the display 6810 is rotatably mounted to the frame 6804 e.g., to enable rotating the display 6810 between portrait mode 6813-1 and landscape mode 6813-2, as shown in FIG. 49F. In the stowed configuration shown in FIGS. 49A and 49B, the mirror 6820 is in front of the display, concealing the display 6810 from view. The mirror panel may be about the same size or larger than the display panel such that the mirror 6820 substantially fully covers the display in the stowed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 49B). In other embodiments, the mirror 6820 may only partially cover or conceal the display 6810 when stowed.
The mirror 6820 is movably mounted to the frame via an articulating mount 6830. The articulating mount 6830 may include a first (e.g., upper) arm 6832-1 and a second (e.g., lower) arm 6832-2, each coupled to a respective one of the upper and lower edges of the mirror. Each of the arms 6832-1 and 6832-1 has one end pivotally coupled to the frame 6804 and its opposite end pivotally coupled to the mirror 6820 whereby the arms support the upper and lower edges of the mirror 6820 as it is articulated laterally and out of the way of the display 6810, to expose the display 6810. The arms 6832-1 and 6832-2 of the articulating mount implement a double-hinge mechanism enabling the mirrored surface 6820-1 of the mirror panel which faces the user in the stowed configuration to remain generally facing the user in the deployed configuration. When reconfiguring the system 6800 from the stowed configuration in FIG. 49A to a deployed configuration (e.g., as shown in FIG. 49B), the mirror 6820 pivots in a first direction (e.g., clockwise) about the pivot axis B while the arms 6832-1 and 6832-1 pivot in the opposite direction (e.g., counterclockwise) about the axis C as the mirror is moved laterally and out of the way to expose the display 6810. The system 6800 may be configured into a second deployed configuration, in which the mirror 6820 is pivoted further away from the stowed position so as to position the mirror behind a plane of the display (e.g., as shown in FIG. 49E), allowing for the display 6810 to be rotated between portrait and landscape orientation. To provide the system 6800 back to a stowed configuration, these operations are reversed. As in other examples herein, the system 6800 may be equipped with a motion tracking system (e.g., a camera-based tracking system). One or more cameras 6805 may be integrated into the display 6810, the frame 6804, the mirror 6820, or any combinations thereof (e.g., for providing a stereo camera system).
FIG. 50 shows yet another example of a coaching system 6900 which includes a display 6910 and a mirror 6920 supported on a common frame 6904. The display 6910 and the mirror 6920 are provided in a side by side arrangement. The display 6910 and mirror 6920 may each be provided on separate panel to enable at least one of the display 6910 or the mirror 6920 to be moveable (e.g., pivotable) independently of the other. For example, an articulating mount similar to the one described above with reference to FIGS. 49A-49F may be used for mounting the mirror 6920 to the frame 6904 such that the reflective surface 6920-1 of the mirror 6920 remains facing generally towards the user when the switching between a stowed and deployed configuration (e.g., by pivoting the mirror about axis E, while the axis E of the mirror rotates about axis D). In some embodiments, the panel that pivots is the panel including the display 6910. In yet other embodiments, the mirror and the display are fixed to the frame 6904 and thus the system 6900 does not provide a stowed configuration.
The display 6910 in this example of the coaching system 6900 as in other examples herein may be configured to provide a digital fitness interface that is configured to selectively present fitness content (e.g., exercise videos 6912, form coaching 6914, biometrics 6916, etc.) on the display. In some embodiments, form coaching or feedback may be presented concurrently with an exercise video or other fitness instruction. For example, form feedback 6914 may be provided in a PIP window 6918, which may be displayed within the window displaying an exercise video (e.g., prerecorded or live-streamed). In some embodiments, the form feedback may be event-driven (e.g., displayed only when form correction is needed). In such embodiments, the system 6900 may be configured to track (e.g., via one or more cameras of a motion tracking system) the user's motion and to generate custom form feedback based on the tracked motion. In other embodiments, the form feedback may be persistent (e.g., presented irrespective or regardless of the user's motion). In embodiments in which user motion is tracked, the coaching system 6900 is equipped with a motion tracking system, for example a camera-based motion tracking system. One or more cameras 6903 may be mounted on the display panel, on the mirror panel, or both. Multiple cameras may be used to provide stereo camera vision for an improved user experience. User motion tracking may also be used for other even-driven actions by the coaching system, such as automatically activating an instant replay of a segment of the coaching content upon detecting that a user has turned away from the display or was temporarily in a position suboptimal for viewing the display. The digital interface may include an instant replay feature, which may be configured to automatically replay video (e.g., acquired via a camera-based motion tracking system) of the user performing an exercise (e.g., a set or certain number of reps) upon completion of the exercise so as to provide form feedback to the user. The digital interface may provide additional custom content, such as displaying of various metrics. In one non-limiting example, the display may be a 43-inch display and may optionally include integrated speaker and/or camera assemblies (e.g., along a bottom and/or top edges of the display). The mirror panel may have substantially similar size to that of the display panel, which may enhance the aesthetics of the system 6900.
FIGS. 51A-51D show a coaching system 61000 according to further examples herein. The coaching system 61000 includes a large-size display 61010 configured to present a digital interface for fitness coaching. The display 61010 is configured to present, via the digital interface, a variety of fitness content, including but not limited to exercise videos, coaching, which may be personalized and/or adaptive to the user, form feedback, biometrics. The display 61010 in this and any of the other examples herein may optionally be configured to display other audiovisual content unrelated to fitness (e.g., a movie, a TV show, a music station or other), which may be accessible through a user subscription to a content service provider (e.g., Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu, Pandora, Spotify, etc.). FIG. 51A shows the coaching system 61000 in a dormant (or inactive) state in which the display 61010 is inactive (e.g., powered down or in standby mode). FIGS. 51B-51D show the coaching system in an active state in which the display 61010 is active, displaying content. In some embodiments, the display may be positioned behind a mirrored surface, which may enhance the aesthetics of the system 61000, such as during a dormant state of the system. The display 61010 and optional mirror 61020 form an integral coaching panel 61002 which is supported by a frame 61004.
The frame 61004 may include a base 61003 and a casing 61005 extending upward (e.g., substantially vertically) from the base 61003. The casing 61005 may include first and second lateral frame members 61005-1 and 61005-2, and a top frame member 61005-3, which together substantially encircle the perimeter of the coaching panel 61002, e.g., when the system 61000 is in a dormant state. In some embodiments, the frame 61004 and/or base 61003 are configured to stably support the coaching panel 61002 onto a horizontal surface (e.g., the floor) thereby providing it as free-standing unit. In some embodiments, the coaching panel 61002 is movably coupled to the frame such that it is pivotable about at least one axis. The coaching panel 61002 may be pivotable about a horizontal axis extending from the front surface of the display to enable pivoting the display between portrait and landscape orientation. In some embodiments, the coaching panel 61002 may additionally or alternatively be pivotable about a horizontal axis extending between the lateral sides of the frame (e.g., a tilt axis) to enable tilting or angling the display downward or upward for optimal viewing from the floor or while standing.
In some embodiments, the system 61000 includes a storage unit 61060, e.g., for storing exercise equipment (e.g., dumbbells or other free weights). The storage unit 61060 may be implemented by a cabinet, e.g., having a door 61061 that opens to the user-facing side of the system 61000. The depth of the storage unit 61060 may be substantially the same as the thickness of the coaching panel 61002. In other embodiments, the front side of the door 61061 may be substantially flush with the front side of the coaching panel 61002, while a rear side of storage unit 61060 may extend beyond of the rear side of the coaching panel 61002. In some embodiments, the storage unit may be implemented by a chest, which may be enclosed by a cover arranged on a top side of the storage unit. The storage unit may be differently configured in other examples. In embodiments in which the display 61010 is behind a mirrored surface, an additional mirrored pane may be attached to the outer-side of the door 61061, to extend the size of the mirror and provide a substantially full-sized reflective surface. In other embodiments, the mirror may span only the upper portion of the coaching panel 61002 (e.g., covering only a lower portion of the display, which may be implemented by 43 inch display) and be, optionally, extended below the lower edge of the display by the additional mirrored pane on the door 61061. In some embodiments the mirror may be omitted. The coaching system may include various other features, such as a tray 61063, which may be retractable into the storage unit 61060 when not in use. For example, the tray 61063 may be pivotally coupled to the door 61061 such that it flips over the top edge of the door for use. The coaching panel 61002 may be configured to nest within the casing when it is in the portrait orientation, and be further configured to be pulled out (e.g., by grasping the two opposite lateral side of the panel 61002) of the casing for rotating the display to landscape mode (see e.g., FIG. 51D).
The foregoing description has broad application. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these examples. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art. The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, various features of the certain aspects, embodiments, or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, or configurations. Moreover, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.
All directional references (e.g., proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, longitudinal, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, radial, axial, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another. The drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary.
Of course, it is to be appreciated that any one of the examples, embodiments or processes described herein may be combined with one or more other examples, embodiments and/or processes or be separated and/or performed amongst separate devices or device portions in accordance with the present systems, devices and methods. Finally, the above discussion is intended to be merely illustrative of the present system and should not be construed as limiting the appended claims to any particular embodiment or group of embodiments. Thus, while the present system has been described in particular detail with reference to exemplary embodiments, it should also be appreciated that numerous modifications and alternative embodiments may be devised by those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the broader and intended spirit and scope of the present system as set forth in the claims that follow. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative manner and are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims.
Patent Application
20230026251
