SYSTEM FOR MEASURING PHYSICAL PERFORMANCE AND FOR PROVIDING INTERACTIVE FEEDBACK

SYSTEME DESTINE A MESURER LES PERFORMANCES PHYSIQUES ET A DONNER UN RETOUR INTERACTIF

English Abstract

A computerized exercise system provides total management of fitness data. The
system can calculate a user's exercise intensity in response to received user
performance data, determine an exercise intensity indication based on a
comparison between the calculated exercise intensity and the user profile, and
provide the exercise intesity indication to the user. The system can be
updated to include health and nutrition information, so that a performance
target can be dynamically modified based on food that is consumed, or based on
user performance. A feedback module can display an indication to the user to
increase, sustain, or decrease exercise intensity. A method of providing
interactive feedback to an exerciser is also provided.

French Abstract

L'invention concerne un système d'exercice informatisé fournissant une gestion totale des données de condition physique. Le système peut calculer l'intensité des exercices d'un utilisateur en réponse à des données reçues de performances de l'utilisateur, il peut déterminer une indication d'intensité d'exercice sur la base d'une comparaison entre l'intensité d'exercice calculée et le profil de l'utilisateur, et il peut donner à l'utilisateur une indication de l'intensité d'exercice. Le système peut être actualisé afin de contenir des informations de santé et de nutrition de manière qu'une cible de performance peut être modifiée de façon dynamique sur la base du régime alimentaire consommé, sur la base des performances de l'utilisateur. Un module de retour peut afficher une indication à l'utilisateur afin d'augmenter, de soutenir ou de diminuer l'intensité de l'exercice. L'invention concerne également un procédé fournissant un retour interactif à une personne effectuant des exercices.

Claims

44
We claim:
1. A computerized physical activity system for use with exercise machines,
the system
comprising: a database comprising data about people who will be using the
system;
sensing systems, each coupled to a corresponding one of the exercise machines,
to sense
mechanical variables of activities of a person when exercising on the exercise
machines; and
a computer and communication system coupled to the database and to the sensing
systems,
wherein the computer and communication system is arranged
to process mechanical properties of the exercise machines and the mechanical
variables of
the activities to generate user performance data for each of the activities,
to perform an analysis of the user performance data based, at least in part,
on information
stored in the database for the person,
to provide feedback to the person when exercising on one of the exercise
machines based on
the user performance data and/or the analysis thereof for the activity of the
person on the one of the
exercise machines, and
to update the information stored in the database for the person based on the
analysis so that
subsequent analyses of user performance data for activities of the person are
performed based, at
least in part, on the updated information.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the user performance data for a
particular one of the
activities comprises one or more of the following:
energy exerted by the person while exercising on a particular one of the
exercise machines,
range of motion of the particular one of the activities,
speed of one or more physical components of the particular one of the exercise
machines
during the particular one of the activities, and
acceleration of one or more physical components of the particular one of the
exercise
machines during the particular one of the activities.
3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the exercise
machines is of a
different class than another of the exercise machines.




45
4. The system of any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein at least one of the
exercise machines is a
cardio exercise machine or a weight-stack exercise machine or a spinning
exercise machine or a
hydraulic exercise machine.
5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising:
acquisition modules near or affixed to the exercise machines to acquire an
identifier of the person.
6. The system of claim 5, further comprising:
a tag storing the identifier of the person,
wherein the acquisition modules are to acquire the identifier from the tag.
7. The system of any one of claims 1 to 6, further comprising:
a display coupled to the computer and communication system and which is
viewable by the
person when exercising on a particular one of the exercise machines, wherein
the computer and
communication system is arranged to show on the display, at least one of
visual feedback related to the user performance data for the activity of the
person on the
particular one of the exercise machines,
visual feedback related to the analysis of the user performance data for the
activity of the
person on the particular one of the exercise machines, and
an indication of another of the exercise machines to which the person, after
exercising on the
particular one of the exercise machines, should proceed according to an
exercise program for the
person stored in the database.
8. The system of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the computer and
communication system
comprises:
electronic controllers, each coupled to a corresponding one of the exercise
machines, which
are arranged to handle at least a portion of the processing of the mechanical
variables.
9. The system of claim 8, wherein the computer and communication system
comprises: a
computer system able to communicate with the database and able to communicate
with the electronic
controllers.




46
10. The system of claim 9, wherein the computer system is a centralized
computer system or a
distributed computer system.
11. The system of any one of claims 8 to 10, when claim 8 is dependent on
any one of claims 1
to 6, wherein at least one of the electronic controllers is able to receive
from a heart rate monitor
heart rate data of the person when exercising on the exercise machine that is
coupled to the electronic
controller, is able to process the heart rate data based on target heart rate
zone information that is
stored in the database for the person, and is able to show on a display
viewable by the person a visual
indication of a comparison of the person's heart rate and the target heart
rate zone information.
12. The system of any one of claims 8 to 10, when claim 8 is dependent on
claim 7, wherein at
least one of the electronic controllers is able to receive from a heart rate
monitor heart rate data of the
person when exercising on the exercise machine that is coupled to the
electronic controller, is able to
process the heart rate data based on target heart rate zone information that
is stored in the database
for the person, and is able to show on the display viewable by the person a
visual indication of a
comparison of the person's heart rate and the target heart rate zone
information.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein a corresponding one of the exercise
machines is a spinning
exercise machine having a flywheel and having selectable resistance settings;
and
wherein the corresponding sensing system is coupled to the spinning exercise
machine to
count rotations of the flywheel due to activity of the person when exercising
on the spinning exercise
machine.
14. The system of claim 13, wherein the user performance data for the
activity comprises one or
more of the following:
speed of the flywheel during the activity, and
energy exerted by the person while exercising on the spinning exercise
machine.
15. The system of claim 13 or claim 14, wherein the sensing system is
further able to sense the
selected resistance setting of the spinning exercise machine.




47
16. The system of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the computer and
communication system
is further arranged to display to a trainer of a spinning class visual
feedback related to the user
performance data for the person.
17. The system of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the computer and
communication system
comprises:
an electronic controller coupled to the sensing system for the spinning
exercise machine that
is arranged to handle at least a portion of the processing of the mechanical
properties, the count of
rotations and the selected resistance setting.
18. The system of claim 17, wherein the computer and communication system
comprises: a
computer system able to communicate with the electronic controller.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the computer system is a centralized
computer system or a
distributed computer system.
20. The system of any one of claims 17 to 19, wherein the electronic
controller is able to receive
from a heart rate monitor heart rate data of the person when exercising on the
spinning exercise
machine, is able to process the heart rate data based on target heat rate zone
information that is stored
in the database for the person, and is able to show on a display viewable by
the person a visual
indication of a comparison of the person's heart rate and the target heart
rate zone information.
21. The system of claim 20, further comprising:
an acquisition module near or affixed to the spinning exercise machine to
acquire an identifier
of the person.
22. The system of claim 21, further comprising:
a tag storing the identifier of the person,
wherein the acquisition module is to acquire the identifier from the tag.
23. The system of any one of claims 20 to 22, further comprising:




48
a display viewable by the person when exercising on the spinning exercise
machine, where
the display is coupled to the computer and communication system, and wherein
the computer and
communication system is further arranged to show on the display visual
feedback related to the user
performance data and/or to the analysis.
24. A method for providing feedback to a person who is exercising, the
method comprising:
sensing mechanical variables of activities of the person when exercising on
exercise machines;
processing mechanical properties of the exercise machines and the mechanical
variables of
the activities in a computer and communication system to generate user
performance data for each of
the activities;
performing an analysis of the user performance data based, at least in part,
on information
stored in a database for the person in the computer and communication system;
providing said feedback to the person when exercising on one of the exercise
machines based
on the user performance data and/or the analysis thereof for the activity of
the person on the one of
the exercise machines by the computer and communication system; and
updating in the computer and communication system the information stored in
the database
for the person based on the analysis so that subsequent analyses of the user
performance data for
activities of the person are performed based, at least in part, on the updated
information.
25. The method of claim 24, wherein the user performance data comprises an
exercise intensity,
performing the analysis comprises performing a comparison of the exercise
intensity and a target
exercise intensity stored in the database for the person, and the feedback
comprises an indication to
increase, sustain or decrease the exercise intensity based on the comparison.
26. The method of claim 24 or claim 25, further comprising:
receiving heart rate data of the person when exercising,
wherein performing the analysis is based, at least in part, on the heart rate
data.
27. The method of any one of claims 24 to 26, wherein performing the
analysis is based, at least
in part, on caloric intake information for the person and/or on exercise
targets for the person.




49
28. The method of claim 24 wherein a corresponding one of the exercise
machines is a spinning
machine,
and wherein sensing mechanical variables of activities of the person when
exercising on
exercise machine comprises counting rotations of a flywheel of the spinning
exercise machine due to
activity of the person on the spinning exercise machine; and
wherein processing mechanical properties of the exercise machines and the
mechanical
variables of the activities to generate the user performance data for each of
the activities comprises
determining a resistance setting of the spinning exercise machine; and
determining from the
resistance setting and the count of rotations energy exerted by the person
while performing the
activity.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein determining the resistance setting
comprises:
sensing pressure on a friction pad that is spring loaded against the flywheel.
30. The method of claim 29, wherein sensing the pressure on the friction
pad comprises: using a
pressure foil mechanism mounted between a plastic portion of the friction pad
and a felt portion of
the friction pad.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein determining the resistance setting
comprises:
assuming a setting of a graduated resistance known on the spinning exercise
machine.
32. The method of any one of claims 28 to 31, wherein counting the
rotations
comprises: measuring changes in flywheel rotation via an optical position
sensor, or
applying one of a magnet and a Hall-effect sensor to the flywheel, and
applying the other of
the magnet and the Hall-effect sensor to a stationary element of the spinning
exercise machine.
33. The method of claim 28 to 32, further comprising:
receiving heart rate data of the person when exercising on the spinning
exercise machine,
wherein performing the analysis is based, at least in part, on the heart rate
data.
34. The method of claim 28 or claim 33, wherein performing the analysis is
based, at least in
part, on caloric intake information for the person and/or on exercise targets
for the person.




50
35. The method of claim 24 wherein a corresponding one of the exercise
machines is a
hydraulic exercise machine and,
wherein sensing mechanical variables of activities of a person when exercising
on exercise
machine comprises, sensing displacement over- time of a first piston of the
hydraulic exercise
machine relative to its hydraulic cylinder due to displacement by the person
of a mechanism coupled
to the hydraulic cylinder;
wherein processing mechanical properties of the exercise machines and the
mechanical
variables of the activities to generate the user performance data for each of
the activities comprises
calculating a stroke of the first piston from the sensed displacement and
parameters of the hydraulic
cylinder; and determining energy exerted by the person while displacing the
mechanism based, at
least in part, on the calculated stroke and properties of the hydraulic
cylinder.
36. The method of claim 35, further comprising:
calculating a stroke of a second piston coupled to the first piston from the
sensed
displacement and parameters of a second hydraulic cylinder of the second
piston;
wherein determining the energy exerted by the person while displacing the
mechanism is
further based, at least in part, on the calculated stroke of the second piston
and properties of the
second hydraulic cylinder.
37. The system of claim 1 , wherein a corresponding one of the exercise
machines is a hydraulic
exercise machine system, comprising:
one or more hydraulic cylinders;
a mechanism coupled to at least one of the hydraulic cylinders, where
displacement of the
mechanism by the person exercising on the hydraulic exercise machine displaces
pistons of the
hydraulic cylinders relative to the cylinders; and
wherein the sensing system is a sensor assembly to sense relative displacement
of a piston
relative to its cylinder over time.
38. The system of claim 37, further comprising: a display to provide visual
feedback to the
person based, at least in part, on the analyzed data.




51
39. The method of any one of claims 24 to 36 comprising:
displaying to the person exercising on the exercise machine a color-coded non-
alphanumerical visual indication of measured heart rate data for the person
compared to a target
heart rate.
40. The method of claim 39, wherein the visual indication is a color of a
light-emitting diode.
41. The method of any one of claims 24 to 36, 39 or 40 wherein the feedback
to the person
comprises providing the feedback on a per-muscle group basis.
42. The method of claim 41, wherein providing the feedback on a per-muscle
group basis
comprises: displaying muscle group indicators on an image of a human body,
where the muscle
group indicators indicate relative levels of fitness of the various muscle
groups in the person's body.
43. The method of claim 42, wherein the indicator of a particular muscle
group indicates a
fitness level of the particular muscle group of the person relative to a
target fitness level for the
particular muscle group.
44. The method of claim 42 or claim 43, wherein the muscle group indicators
collectively
indicate where deficiencies and muscle imbalances are occurring in the
person's body.
45. The method of claim 41, further comprising:
consolidating data related to a muscle group of the person's body from data
related to
different ones of the exercise machines that affect the muscle group.
46. The method of claim 45, wherein providing feedback on a per-muscle
group basis comprises:
displaying separate visual indications for the different muscle groups, each
said visual
indication indicating a proportion corresponding to that muscle group of the
energy expended by the
person while exercising on the one or more exercise machines on a certain
date.
47. The method of claim 46, wherein the visual indications are portions of
a pie chart.




52
48. The method of claim 41, wherein providing feedback on a per-muscle
group basis comprises:
displaying for a muscle group a visual indication of energy expended by the
muscle group
while the person exercised on the one or more exercise machines on a certain
date.
49. The method of any one of claims 45 to 47, wherein providing feedback on
a per-muscle
group basis comprises:
displaying for the muscle group a visual indication of energy expended by the
muscle group
while the person exercised on the one or more exercise machines on a certain
date.
50. The method of any one of claims 24 to 36 or 39 to 48, further
comprising providing fitness
feedback for a person who has exercised on two or more exercise machines in a
single workout,
comprising:
determining a workout result number on a scale from measured performance of
the person
during the workout on each of the exercise machines;
determining a target number on the scale from target performance for the
person for the
workout for each of the exercise machines;
displaying visual indications of the workout result number and the target
number to enable a
comparison thereof; and
displaying on a per-exercise machine basis visual indications of the measured
performance
and the target performance to enable a comparison thereof.

Description

CA 02587491 2013-11-19
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FIELD OF THE INVENTION
' The present invention relates generally to human performance measurement.
More particularly, the present invention relates to a system for health
management.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
As the baby boom market continues to age and obesity in all age groups
continues to take center stage, health delivery services, in particular the
exercise and
wellness sectors are being called upon to adapt to the unique and
sophisticated needs of
the market. Clearly, the trend in today's market is to maximize the benefits
and efficiency
of physical activity without spending countless hours at a gym. People are
realizing that
ultimate health should combine nutrition and lifestyle with a balanced
exercise program
for real, lasting results and improved physical well being, whether at work,
home or play.
Companies too are feeling the squeeze from employee obesity, workplace
injuries,
absenteeism and the overall state of ill health in the workplace_
Of the 100 million individuals in the United States that participate in
exercise
programs, over SO% fail to maintain a balanced long-term health program. They
quickly
become overwhelmed with the complexities of balancing dietary intake,
nutrition, exercise
activity and lifestyle, and thus fall to devote the necessary time and
discipline needed to
impact true and lasting health. Time is a very precious commodity today; as a
result,
people can be unwilling to devote the necessary time to the manual day-to-day
management of a comprehensive health program. In most cases, individuals are
left to
their awn motivation and planning in the development and execution of their
health and
exercise programs. Some facilities provide limited guidance once members join,
but
quickly dissolve that one-on-one personal management service.
Equipment sold today lacks the technology, objectivity, science and tracking
to
successfully associate the physical functions of exercise, the physiological
outcomes of

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the body with the effectiveness of a well-balanced nutritional intake program.
This
leaves the user to experiment without any real objective, benchmark or tracked
outcome,
making it extremely difficult for users to reach and maintain optimum health.
When a person exercises, either at home or in a fitness club, they usually
have
some goal in mind, such as getting fitter, staying fit, increasing strength,
losing weight etc.
To get the most benefit from exercise it is important that the user knows
exactly what goal
they have been set and how they are performing, both on an immediate real-time
basis
and over time. This leaves the exerciser with a number of key questions: How
well have I
done? How much energy did I exert and how many Calories did I burn? Did I
perform well
against my target or exercise program? What was my target? Did I do better
this time,
compared to last time or my historical data? Am I improving and progressing my
fitness
level? Exactly how fit am I?
To set goals and track fitness can require measuring how much energy a person
has exerted during exercise, i.e. Calories, power and workload the muscles are
performing while continuously monitoring heart rate against a training zone.
The current
method of establishing a person's absolute maximum performance on any given
piece of
exercise equipment is to get that person to exercise to exhaustion while
measuring the
parameters of interest: heart rate, oxygen consumption, weight lifted etc.
This data
provides an individual's maximum performance at that point in time i.e. the
individual's
100% output or ability. However this may be only 60% of the standard for that
individual's
age or sex. Such standards (high, average, poor, etc) are available for
aerobic fitness
(V02max) as established on a treadmill, bike, or step test and some physical
performance tests.
This method, for most people, is impractical, since as you are improving in
fitness,
you would be required to re-take the tests to track any change in fitness
level. While a
person may feel that they have exercised well, and are improving, without some
absolute
measure of performance it is difficult to know for sure. Therefore a simpler,
more practical
way is required that measures performance against goals as the person is
exercising,
tracks fitness and progression and can be tailored to each individual.
There are known approaches in which a counter is used to measure revolutions
of
a weight stack. A display portion of the system allows the user to log in
using a PIN,
providing exercise execution information such as seat and weight settings,
target sets
and reps, and rep counts. A computer can be provided in a fitness club, at
which ,a user
can observe the statistics based on the user's workout. Exercise machines are
networked into a central database, and the system can be accessed on a workout
floor, a
staff computer workstation, or via the Internet. Staff can create workout
templates and
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AMENDED Z."1-iEET

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performance monitoring tools, and send members customized messages via the
system.
The performance monitoring allows staff to identify in real-time which members
need
assistance and provides targeted feedback to the staff. Progress reports and
graphs are
available to users. Non-machine activities such as jogging, swimming and
fitness classes
can be logged in to the system. Reports to management can also be generated
that detail
both member and staff demographic data.
While such known approaches provide computer-based solutions for fitness
training, those solutions are essentially electronic versions of a performance
card on
which measured repetition and set data is stored and possibly compared to a
target
value. The feedback provided is minimal, and only provides information
relating to
targets for sets and repetitions, not in terms of overall health targets.
It is, therefore, desirable to provide a health management system, or human
performance system, that overcomes some of the drawbacks of existing
solutions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one
disadvantage of previous health delivery services and health management
systems.
Embodiments of the present invention utilize proprietary technologies and
advanced scientific analysis to deliver a complete automated health management
solution
deployable to a plurality of health verticals.
Embodiments of the present invention will preferably provide users with
automated, personalized health management while tracking, assisting,
motivating and
encouraging them to achieve the maximum results in less time. This automated
technology and process can encompass many different areas, such as diet,
nutrition,
physical activity, and lifestyle.
Using proprietary wireless technology, embodiments of the present invention
can
directly communicate tracked and measured outcome data to a Human Performance
Database, a database of human function and physical performance profile
characteristics.
As described herein, embodiments of the present invention provide a human
performance measurement/management system, and a method of operation and
manufacture of that system, as well as a method of human performance
evaluation, and a
system for carrying out that method. These human performance systems and
methods
can be implemented as health management systems and methods.
In an aspect, the present invention provides a computerized exercise system
including a storage means to store a plurality of user profiles and storage
means. The
system also includes a plurality of exercise machine modules each in
communication with
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the storage means to receive a stored user profile from the central database.
Each of the
plurality of exercise machine modules includes: a sensor system for coupling
to an
exercise machine to measure user performance data; and an electronic
controller,
coupled to the sensor system, to calculate exercise intensity in response to
the measured
user performance data, to determine an exercise intensity indication based on
a
comparison between the calculated exercise intensity and the user profile, and
to provide
the exercise intensity indication as feedback to the user.
In an embodiment, the exercise intensity indication comprises a display to the

user to increase, sustain, or decrease exercise intensity. The system can
further include
an identification device for each user. The system can further include a
computer in
communication with, and to manage communication between, the storage means and
the
plurality of exercise machine modules. The computer can dynamically update the
user
profile according to a stored progression index in response to: the actual
exercise
intensity; a calculated fatigue rate; or a calculated exercise consistency
coefficient.
The system can include a caloric intake module to modify the user profile in
response to caloric intake data. The sensor system can include a heart rate
sensor to be
worn by the user to collect heart rate data as part of the measured user
performance
data. The electronic controller can include means to determine a heart rate
parameter in
response to a comparison of measured heart rate data and the user profile, and
to
provide feedback to the user regarding heart rate based on the heart rate
parameter. The
electronic controller can include means to provide an indication to the user
to increase,
sustain, or decrease heart rate.
The sensor system can include: an exercise machine sensor for mounting to a
resistive element of the exercise machine; a pressure foil mechanism for
mounting to a
spinning exercise station between a plastic portion and a felt portion of a
brake pad; an
optical position sensor for mounting to a spinning exercise station to measure
flywheel
rotation and position; a position sensor for mounting to a weight stack to
count wheel
rotation; a force load cell for mounting to a cable system used to lift a
weight stack; or a
position sensor for mounting on top of a hydraulic piston to measure a stroke
of the
piston.
The computer can include a report module to provide a user-specific muscle
group-based report based on the user profile. The computer can further include
a health
administration module to provide a trainer with global access to message flags
and to
provide a user with user-only access to user-specific message flags.
In another aspect, the present invention provides an electronic controller for
a
computerized exercise system. The electronic controller includes a user
identification unit
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to receive a user profile from a storage means. The electronic controller also
includes a
processor, in communication with the user identification unit and with a
sensor system
associated with an exercise machine, to calculate. exercise intensity in
response to
received user performance data, and to determine an exercise intensity
indication based
on a comparison between the calculated exercise intensity and the user
profile. The
electronic controller further includes a feedback module, in communication
with the
processor, to provide the exercise intensity indication to the user.
The feedback module of the electronic controller can display an indication to
the
user to increase, sustain, or decrease exercise intensity. The identification
unit can
include an acquisition module to acquire a user identification and a
transmitter to transmit
the user identification to the storage means in order to obtain the user
profile. The
user profile can include a user-specific and machine-specific exercise
profile, which can
be dynamically generated in response to user-defined targets.
In a further aspect, the present invention provides a method of providing
interactive feedback to an exerciser including the following steps:
calculating exercise
intensity in response to measured user performance data; determining an
exercise
intensity indication based on a comparison between the calculated exercise
intensity and
a target exercise intensity stored in a user profile; and providing an
indication to the user
to increase, sustain, or decrease exercise intensity based on the exercise
intensity
indication.
In a yet further aspect, the present invention provides a computer-readable
medium including statements and instructions which, when executed by a
computer,
cause the computer to perform the steps of the method described above.
In a still further aspect, the present invention provides a computerized
feedback
system for a hydraulic device including: a storage means to store a plurality
of user
profiles and machine profiles; and a plurality of hydraulic machine modules
each in
communication with the storage means to receive a stored user profile from the
storage
means. Each of the plurality of hydraulic machine modules includes: a sensor
system for
coupling to a hydraulic machine, such as a hydraulic exercise machine, to
measure user
performance data; and an electronic controller, coupled to the sensor system,
to calculate
physical exertion, or physical workload, intensity in response to the measured
user
performance data, to determine a physical exertion intensity indication based
on a
comparison between the calculated physical exertion intensity and the user
profile, and to
provide the physical exertion intensity indication as feedback to the user.
The sensor
system can include a sensor, such as a position sensor, for mounting on a
hydraulic
piston of the hydraulic machine to measure a stroke of the piston. The
measurement can
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be based on a measured piston displacement and on piston parameters, such as a

chemical property of an oil used in the piston, and other physical parameters
relating to
orifice size, force required to move oil through the piston orifice, etc.
Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to
those
-- ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of
specific
embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example
-- only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:
Fig. 1 is a block and flow diagram of a system of embodiment of the present
invention;
Fig. 2 illustrates a display module of an electronic controller according to
an
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 3 is a block diagram of a single device model of an embodiment of the
present invention;
Fig. 4 illustrates a user-specific body balance report, or overall body
summary,
according to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 5 illustrates a user-specific exercise messaging report according to an
-- embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 6 illustrates a user-specific workout report according to an embodiment
of the
present invention;
Fig. 7 illustrates a user-specific cardiovascular performance report according
to
an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 8 illustrates a user-specific strength report according to an embodiment
of the
present invention;
Fig. 9 is a block diagram of a multiple device model of an embodiment of the
present invention;
Fig. 10 illustrates an inbox screen of the health admin module according to an
-- embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 11 illustrates an admin results screen of the health admin module
according
to an embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 12 is a detailed block diagram of a multiple device model of another
embodiment of the present invention;
Fig. 13 is a block diagram of a multiple clubs model of an embodiment of the
present invention; and
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Fig. 14 illustrates a system according to an embodiment of the present
invention
including a hydraulic cylinder having a hydraulic cylinder sensor.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Generally, the present invention provides a computerized exercise system for
total
management of fitness data. The system can calculate a user's exercise
intensity in
response to received user performance data, determine an exercise intensity
indication
based on a comparison between the calculated exercise intensity and the user
profile,
and provide the exercise intensity indication to the user. The system can be
updated to
include health and nutrition information, so that a performance target can be
dynamically
modified based on food that is consumed, or based on user performance. A
feedback
module can display an indication to the user to increase, sustain, or decrease
exercise
intensity. A method of providing interactive feedback to an exerciser also
provided.
While some known systems can count repetitions and sets, and possibly compare
the data with a baseline level, such systems do not provide any indication of
a level of
exertion or human performance for a particular user when performing the
repetitions and
sets observed. There is no analysis, data management, or feedback in known
systems.
The present invention provides additional analysis tools, and provides
information on
energy exerted, calories burned, and many other useful parameters not provided
by the
known systems. It can be described as relating to automated monitoring of
exercise
equipment and the calculation or estimation of an individual energy output
during the use
of this equipment. In other words, known systems provide tracking of fitness
data while
the present invention provides total management of fitness data. Though
embodiments
will be described in relation to fitness and exercise machines, the present
invention can
be used to measure physical performance on any machine or device requiring
physical
exertion, and compare a measured value with a performance target.
An embodiment of the present invention measures a person's physical exertion
via a machine on which the exertion is being made, in such a way that it can
be
compared with a performance target. The system can be updated to include
health and
nutrition information, so that the performance target can be modified based on
food that is
consumed. Software can be used to automatically update the performance targets
based
on nutrition information.
In discussing embodiments of the present invention, the following terms will
advantageously be used. A user profile, or user-specific physical performance
profile,
includes stored information relating to a user's physical performance targets
or goals (or
exercise/fitness goals, including a target performance index value), user-
specific
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fitness/health data (body's energy burn rate, caloric intake data, etc.) as
well as user
performance data. A storage means can store a plurality of user profiles, as
well as
machine profiles. A machine-specific and user-specific training exercise,
and/or settings
for a machine-specific user-specific training exercise, can be dynamically
generated
based on a user profile and a machine profile in the storage means.
Fig. 1 is a block and flow diagram of a computerized exercise system 100 of an

embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 can preferably include an
identification device 102 for each user, and includes a storage means 104 to
store a
plurality of user profiles and performance data. The identification device
102, such as an
RFID tag, can be a microchip device worn by the user on wrist or chest. It
preferably
integrates and communicates with an optional Heart Rate detection system. The
identification device, or user identifier, 102 actuates, or activates, each
exercise station's
processor, in particular a data acquisition intelligence system.
Alternatively, each user
can have a unique personal identification number (PIN) to enter at each
exercise station.
The storage means 104 can be implemented as a central database or databank,
in which case it acts as the main system of data collection and data
management. In a
preferred embodiment, data stored in the storage means 104 is centrally
accessible, even
in the case where the storage means comprises a plurality of physical storage
devices.
This provides an option of distributed storage. The terms "central database"
and
"databank" in this description are used interchangeably with "storage means",
and
represent a means for storage of data, from which the data is centrally
accessible.
Information can be collected and stored in the databank and managed by, or on
behalf of,
each user as needed. The databank can collect information from as many local
PCs as
deployed. The databank can contain, for example, the following information:
historical
workout results; exercise programs, human performance physical profiles,
training
activity, achieved results, dietary information and various predictive
analysis and
algorithms. Other information can additionally be included, such as exercise
machine
profiles. This databank can also contain proprietary, scientific and
mathematical formulas
for calculating the various performance intensity factors for each member.
The system 100 tracks individual performance of each user. Each user is
preferably automatically identified as they commence use of an exercise
device. The
computer system can also recall a program that has been previously established
for that
user and appropriately adjust the visual or other output display of the system
to allow the
user to monitor his own progress and perform at a desired personal level. In
this way,
each piece of exercise equipment is effectively customized for the individual
user and the
system tracks the individual's performance.
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To describe it in another way, there are two main parts to the system: a
storage
means, such as a central communications server, or database or computer; and
individual components attached to each machine, or exercise machine modules.
In an
embodiment, data can be transmitted between any number of machine devices and
the
storage means by way of RFID tags which are assigned to each member. The
member
can activate each machine by waving the tag in front of the machine component.
The
user's profile is then acquired.
Referring back to Fig. 1, a plurality of exercise machine modules 108 are each
in
communication with the central database 104 via a communications network 106
to
receive a stored user profile from the central database. In this example,
the
communications network can be implemented as an Ethernet link. While only one
exercise machine module 108 is shown in Fig. 1 for simplicity of illustration,
in practice
the system 100 includes a plurality of exercise machine modules 108, as will
be
described and illustrated later. Each of the exercise machine modules 108
includes: a
sensor system, or physical performance detection system, 110; and an
electronic
controller 112.
The sensor system 110 preferably includes an exercise machine sensor, for
coupling to an exercise machine, preferably to a resistance element thereof,
to measure
performance data. For example, the sensor system 110 can include a sensor,
such as a
load cell mounted onto an exercise station weight stack, to continuously
measure the
force used for each repetition for each exercise. The sensor system can also
include an
encoder or potentiometer to be mounted on the exercise station and used to
measure
distance moved for each repetition. By adding various sensors to exercise
devices such
as bikes, treadmills, weight lifting machines, the system of the present
invention is able to
measure, calculate and provide feedback to users based on their degree of
effort and
desired goals.
The electronic controller 112 is coupled to the sensor system 110, to
determine or
calculate exercise intensity in response to the measured user performance
data, to
compare the calculated exercise intensity with the user profile; and to
provide feedback to
the user regarding exercise intensity based on a comparison of measured
performance
data and the stored user profile. The exercise controller 112 can
alternatively be
described as being coupled to the sensor system 110 to calculate exercise
intensity in
response to the measured user performance data, to determine an exercise
intensity
indicator or parameter based on a comparison between the calculated exercise
intensity
and the user profile, and to provide the exercise intensity indication as
feedback to the
user.
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The electronic controller 112 can include a user identification unit 114 to
receive a
user profile from a central database 104. The user identification unit 114, or
data
acquisition intelligence system, can read or otherwise receive a user
identifier, such as
from an identification device 102, e.g. an RFID tag. As such, the system of
the invention
can be described as including an identification module to receive a user
profile from a
storage means in response to a received user identification. The electronic
controller 112
can also include a processor 116, in communication with the user
identification unit 114
and with the sensor system 110 associated with the exercise machine, to
calculate
exercise intensity in response to received user performance data, and to
determine an
exercise intensity indication based on a comparison between the calculated
exercise
intensity and the user profile. The electronic controller 112 can also include
a feedback
module 118, such as a display, in communication with the processor 116, to
provide the
exercise intensity indication to the user. In other words, this device
includes the
intelligence to identify and communicate to the feedback system, while
measuring the
physiological and physical function of the body.
In the processor 116, a data acquisition intelligence system can be
implemented
as a card that tracks all performance data including force, distance, time,
heart rate, etc.
The processor 116 preferably includes a memory with firmware or software
comprising
sequences and instructions to determine exercise intensity and workload. The
processor
can control various LED lights on the feedback module 118, which can be
implemented
as a digital feedback unit, or display unit. The processor 116 can also
communicate data
to a computer 120. The computer 120 can be implemented as a central computer,
or in a
distributed manner where the functions of the computer can be considered as
centrally
controlled, or centrally available. The processor 116 can also track and
communicate
heart rate data.
Although the system 100 has particular application for retrofitting with
existing
equipment, it can also be used with (or alternatively integrated in) new
equipment.
Furthermore, although the system is described with respect to the addition of
sensors to
existing resistance elements on the exercise equipment, new resistance
elements can be
added which include the sensors as part thereof. Obviously, the retrofit
application
provides a cost advantage.
In an example of implementation, a user would wear a heart rate belt and scan
an
RFID tag, or user identifier 102, in front of the electronic controller 112.
Based on the
downloaded user profile, the electronic controller 112 downloads a unique set
of data
tables specifically designed for that user, and provides an indication based
on the data
tables of how much weight the user should be lifting. While the user is
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electronic controller can show the user's range of motion for the muscles,
calculate how
much energy the user has exerted, and can count down the repetitions based on
the
number of repetitions that have already been done.
The processor 116 comprises the necessary intelligence to vary the prescribed
programming to continuously challenge the user to perform at their unique
maximum
capability while ensuring safety. At the end of each exercise session, the
electronic
controller 112 preferably automatically sends all tracked and collected
outcome data to
the central computer 120 for immediate reporting.
Electronic Controller Feedback Based on Exercise Intensity
The electronic controller (EC) 112 is the communication bridge that turns the
mechanical functionality of the exercise equipment into an intelligent and
automated
personal coach that understands the needs, tracks the performance, monitors
the heart
and advises the user in real-time. Data is continuously received from one or
more
sensors mounted onto the exercise station and is processed by the processor
116 in real-
time. The sensor(s) can be mounted to the exercise system's resistance device.

Preferably, data is also received from a heart rate device worn by the user,
and is
processed by the processor 116 in real-time. The EC collects this sensor data,
calculates
exercise exertion, and tracks time, velocity, acceleration, load, power, and
energy.
The EC automatically provides feedback, preferably as a visual display showing
different degrees of physical performance intensity, or exercise intensity.
This can be
implemented with a set of glowing lights ranging from red to yellow to green,
or some
combination of two or more colors representing the amount of energy being
expended as
compared to the amount of energy specified in the personal training program.
The
objective for the user is to train and keep a measured physical performance
intensity, or
workout intensity, in the target intensity zone, based on the user profile.
Similarly, if heart
rate monitoring is used, the user aims to keep a measured heart rate in a
target heat rate
zone, based on their age and desired training outcome.
Fig. 2 illustrates a display module of an electronic controller 112 according
to an
embodiment of the present invention. The feedback module 118, or display,
preferably
includes an LED light bar for display of user performance, or outcome
summaries. The
display can include an indication of one or more of the following parameters:
prescribed
workout intensity; prescribed target heart rate; achieved heart rate; achieved
workout
intensity. The feedback module can also indicate information such as time,
reps, sets,
load, power, or any other piece of data that is measured by the sensor(s), or
is derivable
from the measured data.
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In the embodiment shown in Fig. 2, the feedback module 118 includes a physical

performance feedback indicator, or exercise intensity indicator, 122, which
provides user-
specific feedback on physical performance or exercise intensity based on a
comparison
of measured user performance and a stored user target. A heart rate
performance
feedback indicator 124 can similarly provide user-specific feedback on heart
rate based
on a comparison of measured user heart rate and a stored user target heart
rate.
When one of the intensity, or energy, indicators flashes green, this indicates
that
the user has reached the target energy burn rate, or is training at the
appropriate intensity
level required to achieve the desired weight loss/gain goals. If the user were
wearing a
heart rate monitor, the heart rate would be displayed on the electronic
controller. While it
can be preferable to remain at the "green" level, all that is necessary to
achieve what was
desired from a particular exercise is to reach the "green" level. Once the
level is reached,
the user can stop the exercise, even if the user has not completed all of the
sets of
repetitions recommended. This LED feedback indicates to the user to increase,
decrease
or sustain the current level of workout in order to reach the desired goals.
An information display 126 can provide additional information to the user. For

example, when a heart rate measure indicator 128 is activated, the information
display
can indicate an actual measured heart rate value, such as a numeric value.
When a
repetitions, or reps, indicator 130 is activated, the information display can
indicate a
number of repetitions performed by the user. When neither of those two
indicators is
activated, the information display 126 can advantageously indicate to the
user, at the end
of a workout on that station, which station number to proceed to next
according to the
user-specific exercise program. The same information display can also display
a number
of sets performed by the user. A range of motion indicator 132 indicates a
range of
motion value based on measured user performance. As shown in Fig. 2, the range
of
motion indicator can be implemented as a progressive indicator, showing a
portion or
percentage of range of motion achieved. Alternatively, the range of motion
could be
displayed as a numerical percentage in the information display 126.
The electronic controller is installed on the exercise machine, preferably so
that it
is in the user's view when using the machine. The electronic controller is
also preferably
attached to the exercise machine in an adjustable manner, such that the user
can adjust
the controller to a height and angle that is appropriate for the particular
user. A sensor or
sensors are mounted in an appropriate location based on the type of machine,
such as at
a weight stack for a weight stack machine.
While the user is exercising, the system performs an analysis to determine
whether the user is meeting the target in the user's unique profile. The
system calculates
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the amount of energy, time, or any other parameter relating to human
performance and
processes that data on board on each exercise computer, at the exercise
equipment.
The user is given real-time feedback with respect to global amounts of energy.
The
indication is preferably provided by way of three indications: red, yellow and
green. The
user is encouraged to "go for green" which means that the user's body is
training at the
proper intensity determined by the user's profile. If the indicated
performance level is not
green, this indicates that the user is not performing optimally and there is
at least one
area of improvement.
Brief Example of Application
As members join a computerized exercise system of the present invention, they
are preferably issued their own personal ID and preferably a heart rate belt.
A user's
customized profile is stored in a central database, and preferably includes
desired goals
and a training program, as well as user performance data. This training
program is
formulated based on the caloric burn, caloric intake and anticipated weight
gain/loss
expectation for that member. This information is typically provided by the
member/user.
Software performing a method according to an embodiment of the present
invention
preferably establishes a unique Performance Index (PI), a value of energy burn
ranging
from 1 to 1000 that the user is required to perform at in order to achieve the
expected
weight gain/loss goals. A PI of 1000 represents the highest level of physical
performance,
reflective of a professional athlete. A method of the present invention
includes calculating
PI based on desired fitness goals, such as caloric burn, caloric intake,
weight gain/loss
expectations, etc. In other words, a global user training program can be
generated based
on targets, the targets not including PI, but the training program including
Pl.
The information collected during each exercise is then included in the user
profile.
The user can activate the profile at a kiosk by logging in using an RFID tag,
thereby
launching the user's profile. The system of the present invention combines
fitness
programs, goal setting, real-time feedback, fitness progress tracking and
automatic goal
setting. The system preferably uses a unique measure - Performance Index (PI) -
that
standardises the energy a person uses when exercising across any piece of
exercise
equipment. An instantaneous PI level can also be calculated that will indicate
if the user is
currently performing at the proper level and a predictive PI that would
indicate if the final
PI will be achieved if the exercise is continued at the current rate. Also, a
PI value for
each movement, or stroke, of an exercise can be calculated.
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A method of the present invention includes calculating an exercise program
profile
and parameters based on Pl. Another method of the present invention includes
characterizing a machine-specific exercise program according to Pl.
Single Device Model In-Club/In-Home
There are various possible implementations of embodiments of the present
invention. Fig. 3 is a block diagram of a single device model of an embodiment
of the
present invention. The implementation of Fig. 3 can be used for in-home use,
as well as
in-club use. This embodiment can offer significant value to the unsupervised
home
exercise market. A user can simply connect an exercise machine module 108 to
their own
home computer, which acts as computer 120. Because of physical proximity,
instead of
using wireless communication, the exercise machine module can be connected to
the
computer using a universal serial bus (USB) connection; in some instances,
this option
can save time, and/or reduce the development and production cost of each
system. The
user can logon to the proprietary Human Performance DatabankTM, or storage
means
104, using the Internet, or some other communications network 106, to receive
vital
instructions for administration and management of their complete health
program. A
monthly access fee can provide each user with unlimited on-line access 24
hours per
day.
The following paragraph enumerates a general overview of an exemplary
implementation of the single device application of an embodiment of the
present
invention, such as the one shown in Fig. 3.
1. User wears a heart rate belt or wrist band.
2. User logs onto Human Performance Database through the internet
3. The station
then calls from the internet the most current user profile,
including target heart rate, target load, speed, time etc (in most cases, this
data will be
resident on the home computer).
4. The data is then uploaded through an internet connection to the station.
5. The user is prompted by a light on the station or by a message on the
computer screen that the system is ready for use.
6. The user starts their workout activity and attempts to turn on the green
light
(or green screen).
7. The system will measure the force, time, sets, reps etc, through the
load
cell and encoder and calculate the workout intensity. Since this is done on a
single
station, it can either be done using firmware or directly by the computer.
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8. The station will turn on various LED lights (Screen) based on the
calculated
workout intensity. A solid green LED bar shows the user is working at 100% of
the prescribed
intensity. Solid red LED (Screen) means the user is not (A scale to determine
the intensity of
workouts).
9. The system also tracks the user's heart rate and turns on the necessary
LED
lights (Screen) to show where the heart rate is compared to target.
10. The user uses these LED queues to alter their workout intensity for
each rep.
11. When the user is done, they move to the next exercise prompted by the
computer.
12. At the completion the exercise session, the user reviews the progress
reports.
When compared to Fig. 1, the system shown in Fig. 3 includes additional
functionality,
shown as additional modules in communication with the storage means 104. In
general, Fig. 3
shows that data review and analysis performed by a system of the present
invention can be
based, in addition to information in the human profiles and performance
databank, on measured
values, goals, actual intake, actual diet, food intake, diet plan, an other
activity. Some of these
aspects will now be described in further detail.
Automatic update of goals based on performance
In an embodiment, the system of the present invention includes dynamic, or
automatic,
modification or updating of a goal or target based on measured performance
results. The
system includes a measurement module 134 for extracting measured user
performance data
from the storage means or central database 104 and for comparing the measured
data with the
stored target data For example, the data in question can be a Performance
Index (PI). The
calculation of such a performance index is described in the inventor's
commonly-assigned PCT
Application No PCT/CA2005/001626, and published as International Publication
No.
W02006/042420 filed of even date herewith.. If the measured data shows that
the measured PI
value meets a target PI value, the target PI value can be increased slightly
so that the user is set
to improve when coming for the next workout The update or modification of the
goal, or target,
can be performed by an automatic goal update module 136. The amount by which
the goal,
such as a PI value, is increased is determined by a stored progression index,
which is preferably
stored in a memory accessible by or within, the automatic goal update module
136. The
progression index can be a percentage by which the PI value, or any other
value, is increased if
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if the user fails to reach the target. Although any suitable value can be used
and modified
by the user, a presently preferred progression index value is about 10%.
Besides providing automatic updating of goals, the system can also provide the

user the ability to manually modify parameters of an exercise, such as:
weight,
repetitions, and target performance index for that particular exercise. This
user
modification can be performed a user-accessible profile edits module 138,
which can be
accessed via a web management module 140. The profile edits module, or
training
module, can include relevant information on exercise programs as developed and

managed. It can include personal information on the user as well as desired
goals and
objectives. The section can include critical data forming the cornerstone of
health
management information. Access to the module can be provided to various users
based
on security privileges as defined by the system or by the member. A global
target, such
as a global performance index, is then preferably automatically updated based
on any
manual user modification or change to specific exercise parameters. The global
PI
preferably cannot be changed directly by the user.
The web management module, or web site, 140 can preferably be the interface
used to manage all information gathered from all the various systems and
users. It can
feature various user interfaces for members, personal trainers, physicians,
and other
professionals based on the assigned security privileges. From this main
system, users
can be prompted to and provided with the ability to manage, accept, and modify
various
health information gathered and tracked by the system.
Integration of caloric intake with exercise program
Known systems do not provide a way for a user to easily integrate dietary
intake
with an exercise program. The system of the present invention, in one
embodiment,
provides a caloric intake module 142, which can include modules to receive and
store
information relating to diet and/or intake.
Meal consumption and caloric intake
information can thus be entered into the same system that tracks fitness. As a
result, the
user performance targets, or fitness targets, for the individual can be
dynamically
modified based on meal consumption. The modified profile based on the updated
caloric
intake can then be sent to the health club or the communication module system
and the
user profile is updated accordingly.
Therefore, tomorrow's workout can be customized based on food consumed today
and the workout can even be customized within the same day, given that the
updated
information can be transferred almost immediately and the user profile will be
updated
accordingly. As a result, the fitness program can always ensure that the user
is burning
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off more calories than are being taken in. The total caloric intake can
preferably be
updated on a periodic basis, such as at the end of each day, and can
preferably be based
on knowledge of the user's caloric burn rate. A caloric value database that
interacts with
the web module of the system of the present invention preferably includes
caloric values
relating to different types of food, which the user can select when entering
the meal
consumption, such as by a drop-down menu. That way, the user does not need to
have
knowledge of calories associated with particular food types and amounts.
From home or office, the user can connect to a website module and enter their
dietary intake. Software in, or in communication with, the caloric intake
module calculates
the caloric impact on the overall training program and analyzes the impact on
weight
gain/weight loss based on tracked training proficiency. On subsequent
workouts, the
software utilizes this revised profile and only activates the LED light
feedback system
based on the new modified work intensity requirement. This cycle of
objectively
documenting intake and associating it to measured output will not only enhance
user
compliance, but substantially improve the ability for the user to achieve
their fitness goals.
The software can provide predictive analysis on various weight gain and weight

loss scenarios for 30 days, 90 days, 6 months, one year and longer, based on
observed
dietary intake and activity intensity. The software recommends changes to
future dietary
intake and training intensity. Having access to dietary intake information can
allow the
predictive engine to forecast both the short and long-term impact on the users
physical
condition and associated physical risks. The predictive engine can be
implemented as a
predictive profiles module 144, as shown in Fig. 3.
The predictive profiles module, or prediction system module, can be used by
the
member to analyze and determine weight gain/ loss scenarios based on measured
and
observed outcomes. Various algorithms and scientific principles can be
utilized in
determining the validity and effectiveness of various exercise training
programs and to
make the necessary recommendations to the user for change. A key prediction
component can be determined by the measure of physical activity in comparison
to the
desired goals and objectives of the training program. Based on such
measurements, the
system can advise the user of the anticipated time of progress to achieve the
desired
goals.
Fatigue & Variance
When exercising, a user typically experiences fatigue. However, known systems
do not provide the user with any indication of whether the amount of fatigue
being
experienced is normal. There is similarly no indication of whether the user is
being
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consistent with respect to energy expended during a workout. Inconsistency and
unusual
fatigue are signs that a user's exercise program is not suitable and needs to
be changed.
Embodiments of the present invention provide the ability to dynamically modify
a user-
specific exercise program based on measured fatigue and/or variance.
A fatigue and variance module 146 is shown in Fig. 3 as being in communication
with the central database 104, and having access to the measured user
performance
data. While this module is shown as a single module, the two functions can be
implemented separately. With respect to fatigue calculation, this can be
determined in
relation to the calculated energy per repetition and any variation there has
been between
energy per stroke by observing the slope of a line showing the energy
expended. This
shows whether the person is exerting more energy continuously or losing more
energy
continuously. In a normal healthy individual training at the full intensity, a
strength loss
rate of about 10 % is expected.
A coefficient of variance, which is a measure of consistency, illustrates how
consistently the repetitions were performed. If energy is increasing or
decreasing but the
consistency is not there, the user is not trying their best. The system looks
at the
relationship between consistency and fatigue, with ideal values being a
fatigue of about
10 % and a consistency variation of about 0 %. Within each set, the system can
collect
data relating to each individual stroke. In an embodiment, each stroke in an
exercise (or
individual exercise movement) can be summarized, with its distance, position,
range of
motion, energy, fatigue, heart rate, and performance. At the end of each
stroke, an
intensity parameter, such as a performance index (PI), is calculated. A
summary PI is
also calculated for each set. A personal trainer can use this data to
communicate with
the user and identify areas that need to be worked on. The system can
preferably
automatically update a user profile based on stored settings relating to
fatigue and
variance.
A reports module 148 is also provided in communication with the web
management module 140. The reports module can generate user-specific reports
based
on information from the central database 104, as well as the measurement
module 134,
the caloric intake module 142, and the fatigue/variance module 146. Additional
modules
can include the ability to create custom statistics and measured outcome for
published
research. The reports module 148 will now be described in further detail.
Reports Module / Kiosk
The system preferably includes a reports module, or kiosk, 148 to generate and
provide access to user-specific reports based on measured user performance. In
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physical implementation, the reports module, or kiosk, 148 can be provided at
the
computer 120. In the following description, the kiosk will be described
separately, partly
since the system can include a plurality of kiosks. The computer 120 centrally
manages
all data and communicates with all ECs in the system, preferably using
wireless
technology. The user has the option to login at the kiosk 148 before starting
an exercise
routine and accept the workout program modified by the system based on results
from
the previous workout, the amount of consumed calories and the desired goals
and
objectives. Once completed, the kiosk 148 sends the revised exercise profile
to the
various EC units for each exercise. At the end of the workout the individual
approaches
the kiosk, activating the reporting system for outcome summary of measured
performance in comparison to their pre-established goals and objectives. A one-
page
graphical report can be generated, so that the user can evaluate their
performance and
make the necessary modifications to their exercise routines.
The kiosk software can include various equipment setup parameters and can be
used for organizing the various equipment inventories in any club and
associating them to
various software parameters. All stations are preferably initially
characterized prior to first
use. The section can include, for example: Equipment calibration screens;
Product
registration screens; Equipment ID and Data Acquisition Units association
screen; Facility
setup screen; and Protocol and communication setup screens.
The kiosk software can also include various personal setup screens for
entering
all personal data including, for example: User personal setup screens; Medical
clearance
questionnaires and signoff; Various security log-in privileges for other
users; Customized
exercise program screens; Baseline testing and goal setting screen,
anticipated trends;
and Battery of standardized templates for creating training programs.
At the beginning and / or completion of any workout, the user or the
individual
responsible for the user can print various progress reports, manage and create
training
programs, and enter dietary information. At the end of each workout, the user
can have
the option to print various progress reports to review effectiveness of the
workout.
Reports can be summarized in relation to established baseline and planned
goals and
objectives and can include, for example: One page summary of current workout
results
(prints automatically at end of workout); and two to three page summary of any
number of
workouts (user defined data range).
In an embodiment, the report module, or reporting engine, 148 can
automatically
provide these results on-line or to other communication devices including
personal digital
assistant (PDA), Cell Phone or by email, such as in PDF (portable document
format) file
format, or any other suitable data format for any other device capable of data
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communications. Suitable protocols can be used to enable communication between
the
modules.
Fig. 4 illustrates a user-specific body balance report, or overall body
summary,
according to an embodiment of the present invention. The body balance summary
150
looks at the overall energy that was exerted from all the various workouts and
matches
that to the muscle groups based on the machines that were used. An overall
summary of
the muscles is provided based on whether the user was in the red, yellow or
green zones
during the exercise. This reporting result covers all cumulative information
for all
exercises, and provides an overall indication of how the user has been doing,
such as for
the last 30 days.
A female / male figure is labelled with muscle group exercise indicators 152
showing the major muscle groups used during a user's workout. Each muscle
group
exercise indicator 152 preferably includes an indication of a user-specific
muscle-specific
exercise intensity, such as by displaying different colours. A green colour on
the muscle
group indicates the user have worked that muscle sufficiently to meet the
target value, or
PI value, and will gain maximum health / fitness benefits from that exercise.
A yellow
colour indicates the muscles were not sufficiently exercised to receive
maximum health /
fitness benefits. A red color indicates this muscle group was not exercised
and will
receive no health / fitness benefits from that workout. The female / male
figure indicates
where deficiencies and muscle imbalances are occurring in workouts. It is easy
to focus
on the muscle groups that we enjoy working out the most or that give us the
best training
adaptation but the body balance chart should redirect our attention to real
work that
needs to be done. Muscular strength imbalances can set you up for injuries or
poor
performance. The user can use this chart to consistently keep on track.
The system also includes a weight graph or line 154 that allows the system to
modify the body type and shape based on the user's Body Mass Index, body
weight,
body type and actual measurements of individual body parts. This can be a user
interface
to the predictive profiles module 144 as previously described in relation to
Fig. 3. This
provides an indication of how the body can change when the user gains and
loses weight,
and gives a quick illustration of what the user will look like. The body
summary is also
provided as a percentage of the target human performance as well as with a
zone
indication, such as a colour. The percentage is an efficiency percentage based
on the
target for that user. The green zone can be defined by percentages of about 66
% to
about 100% or greater.
Fig. 5 illustrates a user-specific exercise messaging report 156 according to
an
embodiment of the present invention. Messages, or flags, are used to provide
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information on an area requiring improvement, such as what is being done wrong
or what
can be improved. The user-specific exercise messaging report can also be
referred to as
a flags summary, with a flag representing a message or alert. The report
screen as
shown in Fig. 5 can include a message listing area 158 where basic (or header)
data is
displayed reporting all messages for that user, and a message display area
160, where
text of a selected message can be viewed, and message handling options are
made
available. From the flag summary, the user can see all of the indications, or
flags, that
the system has generated for the user. This can include whether the user is
training too
hard, too soft, or not fast enough. The system identifies the problem areas
and preferably
sends a text message to the user identifying the problem areas. The flags are
sent to the
user's profile at a kiosk, and can alternatively be sent via email, text
message or other
messaging system so that the user an access the message from home, from the
office,
etc. The user can acknowledge and delete a message. The user can alternatively

indicate that assistance is needed, in which case the message will be
forwarded to a
personal trainer. In this way, the My Flags section is a communication module
between
the system of the present invention, the user and the personal trainer.
The table below provides some exemplary flag types, and possible messages or
recommendations to accompany the flag, or indication.
Flag Type Possible Message/Recommendation
Red- if active heart rate is low - Increase rate of muscular contraction
- Move quickly from one station to the next to avoid HR
to drop below training zone
- Make sure full range of motion is performed on each
exercise
Red- if active heart rate is high - Slow down rate of muscular contraction
- Slightly decrease range of motion if already at full
range
- Work at lower % of HR training zone
Yellow- Plateau - vary the order of machines used
- work at higher % of HR training zone
- increase frequency of workouts
- check status reports on all monitored variables
- see staff for variations on exercise.
Yellow- Inconsistent - re-evaluate goals of workout
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- check status reports on all monitored variables
- have staff evaluate workout based on monitored
variables
General- sporadic attendance - Workout regularly
- Try to adhere to a day-on / day-off schedule
- Workout at least three times per week.
General- heart rate high - Slow down rate of muscular contraction
- Decrease your'intensity at each cardio station
General- heart rate low - Increase rate of muscular contraction
- Move quickly from one station to the next avoiding HR
to drop below training zone
- Increase your intensity at each cardio station
General- poor gains (low - Increase the intensity of your workouts
measured progression index) - Add one more workout throughout the week
- Increase the length of your workout
- Try to "Go For Green" during your workout
Birthday "Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you,
Happy workout with Mytrak, and great Pl's too!"
Best wishes from the staff.
Membership expiry *****YOUR MEMBERSHIP HAS EXPIRED*****
Your membership has expired. Please contact us in
order to renew your membership. If you have any
questions or concerns, please press the "need assist"
button at the end of this message.
Green No message needed. Note: Green flag indicates
positive progress and a need to increase workout
intensity. This condition is met when the entire load is
performed in the entire range of motion for all reps.
Fig. 6 illustrates a user-specific workout report 162 according to an
embodiment
of the present invention. If the user wants to know specifically how the
workout went, the
user can log into a My Workout Result module shown in Fig. 6. This module
provides a
real, full summary of the workout by date. The user can observe results,
trends, and
compare these with the goals that were set for each day.
The user is assigned a scale and the intention is to progressively increase
the
scale over time. The system sets the scale to be a numeric value, measures the
person's
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workout and provides a number for the target and the workout result. If the
system
determines that the user was not able to achieve the goal that was set, the
goal is
automatically and dynamically decreased for the next workout, to make it less
challenging
for the user. The system will continually reduce the target if the user
repeatedly cannot
achieve the target that is set. The system monitors the user's performance and
increases
or decreases the target based on the results. The user can also manually
change the
target performance index goal. An overall scale is provided based on the
average of the
user's performance and the average of the Pls overall.
By selecting a particular day's workout, the user can access information
regarding
specific workouts on specific machines. The machine-specific information shows
the
measured performance and the target performance for each of the machines. The
system includes the ability to change the weight and number of reps in the
profile,
providing the user with full control over those features and parameters.
Fig. 8 illustrates a user-specific strength report 164 according to an
embodiment
of the present invention. The "My Strength" module provides a report as in
Fig. 8,
showing an indication of the total energy expended by the user. This module
provides
information relating to each muscle group, rather than relating the results to
each
machine. The system can consolidate the exercise from each of the machines
into
different muscle groups based on stored information relating to the muscle
groups being
exercised by each machine. The user can observe the overall muscle performance
for
different muscle groups, such as triceps, biceps, thighs, hamstring, back,
etc. The
module also can provide a visual indication, such as a pie chart, that shows
each of the
muscle groups and the proportion of exertion. By clicking on a particular
muscle group,
the user can observe by date the energy expended on that particular muscle
group. This
provides a useful overall, global snapshot of performance.
Fig. 7 illustrates a user-specific cardiovascular performance report 162
according
to an embodiment of the present invention. The "My Cardio" module provides
cardiovascular information, such as shown in Fig. 7, which would be collected
by a heart
rate monitor. The heart rate monitor measures the heart rate and the system
tracks the
amount of time that the heart rate was below the desired target zone, within
the desired
target zone, and above the desired target zone. For each day, there should be
red,
yellow and green portions in the graph, such as a cylinder, and ideally a
larger proportion
of the time is spent within the desired target zone. The system calculates a
target heart
rate zone with a lower limit and upper limit based on measured heart rate and
age. The
system also provides indications of the desired heart rate level for different
types of
exercise.
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Multiple Device Model / Commercial Club Applications
For commercial workout facilities, such as commercial health clubs,
embodiments
of the present invention can service the existing demand for improved
outcomes,
personal one-on-one training and automated health management. This technology
can
provide users with an overall enhanced fitness experience, along with the
added benefits
of real workout performance coaching and results.
Fig. 9 is a block diagram of a multiple device model of an embodiment of the
present invention. In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 9, the workout facility
shows a
plurality of exercise machine modules 108 that are in communication with a
computer
120, which is in turn in communication with the storage means 104 and other
data review
and analysis tools, as described in relation to Fig. 3. Fig. 9 also
illustrates that a plurality
of users can simultaneously, or substantially simultaneously, access the web
management module 140 in order to access the various data review and analysis
modules.
The following paragraph enumerates a general overview of an exemplary
implementation of the multiple device, or commercial club, application of an
embodiment
of the present invention, such as shown in Fig. 9.
1. User wears heart rate belt or wrist band with unique micro chip ID
system
or uses a smart card to communicate to the station.
2. The station then calls to the main computer the most current user
profile,
including target heart rate, target load, speed, time etc.
3. The data is then uploaded through wireless connection to the station.
4. The user is prompted by a light on the station that the system is ready
for
use.
5. The user starts their workout activity and attempts to turn on the green
light.
6. The system will measure the force, time, sets, reps etc, through the
load
cell and encoder and calculate the necessary workout intensity. This should be
done
using system firmware to provide instant LED feedback of the measured
intensity. The
station will turn on various LED lights based on the calculated workout
intensity. A solid
green LED bar shows the user is working at 100% of the prescribed intensity. A
solid red
LED means the user is not.
7. The system also tracks the user heart rate and turns on the necessary
LED lights to show where the heart rate is compared to target.
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8. The user uses these LED queues to alter their workout intensity for each
rep.
9. When the user is done, they move to the next exercise station.
10. At the completion the activity, the data collected is then sent back to
the
main computer for processing.
In particular embodiments, 1 to 250 users may be doing the same cycle at one
time. In some commercial applications, up to 50 stations may communicate to
the main
club computer simultaneously, or substantially simultaneously. Potentially,
millions of ID
chips may be used all with unique ID for each person.
Companies, more then ever are feeling the pressure from an aging employee
population. At work, access to embodiments of the present invention would
enable
employees to gain the full benefits of health and exercise programs in the
convenience of
the workplace. Employers can optionally have access to tracked outcomes
including
system utilization, compliance and physical improvement reporting. This would
allowing
an employer to, for the first time, develop effective compliance and incentive
programs for
improved employee health, thus increased productivity and overall
profitability.
Health Admin Module
Fig. 9 also illustrates a health admin module 166, which can generate and
provide
access to data from a plurality of users and a plurality of exercise machine
stations. The
health admin module 166, alternatively referred to as a health club module or
personal
trainer module, can display all of the active users in the health club as well
as the
machine that they are currently using, along with an indication of that user's
past
interactions with that particular piece of equipment. By selecting a
particular user, a list of
generated flags for that user is displayed to the health club module. The
flags also
preferably include a description of the cause of the flag. A trainer can go
into one of the
flag messages, and modify the message and send it to the user. As such, the
personal
trainer is given an opportunity to customize the message prior to sending to
the user, and
to include recommendations based on the observed performance as well as the
personal
trainer's knowledge of that user and the user's history. Once a flag is sent
to a particular
user, that flag is deleted from the health club module under that user's name
and is now
transferred now to the user profile, as well as by email or other messaging
means if
selected. This module enables two-way communication between the health club
staff and
the member. Messages can be sent directly to the user, to the personal trainer
before
being sent to the user, to the user with a delay period, and/or any variation
of these or
other delivery options. Each flag can have different default delivery
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The system also displays results for each member. This information includes
the
actual exercise sets that the user performed, including the type, muscle
group, duration,
range of motion, repetitions, energy burned, a fatigue percentage, a
consistency
percentage, and/or a peak heart rate or any other similar parameter.
Fig. 10 illustrates an inbox screen 168 of the health admin module according
to an
embodiment of the present invention. The screen, or user interface or module,
displays all
flags and messages for all members in the system. The date range filters them
by
attendance date rage selected. Any member with an icon next to their name
indicates
they have attended the club within the date range filter. "Present Attendee"
filters only
those members that are actively working out on any of the stations. These
flags might
have been generated by the system or by any club staff. Each member may have
more
than one flag. These flags are yet to be sent out to the member. Each message
has a
delay feature in days. Also flags that a client has received and then
requested assistance
to resolve that flag will appear in this first screen.
If an admin user clicks on any particular member's name in the multi coloured
list
of flags, the admin user will get a list of flags specific to that member.
These will appear in
the text box immediately below. These are the specific flag descriptions and
recommendations as created by the system of the present invention. The
"Recipient"
field indicates who the message was sent to.
In the "Status" field, one of two words will appear here, either "Created" or
"Auto".
The "Created" description indicates that the system automatically generated
this flag
based on a user's previous workout performance and it is waiting to be sent
out. If a
personal trainer has added to the message created by the system based on the
data they
have reviewed from your last workout their name will appear in the far right
column
(sender). Otherwise the word "Auto: will appear, meaning the system
automatically
generated this message.
"Assist"- This means the member, in addition to the flag message that has been

sent has requested further assistance. This option appears every time a flag
has been
generated and sent to their workout summary at the kiosk.
"Description"- This is the title given to each flag.
"Subject"- This may be of a general nature and be exactly the same as the
description of the flag. eg. Active HR (heart rate) high or if the progression
flag appears
the subject will be specific to a workout machine that requires you to
additional challenge
yourself for you to further progress.
"Created"- The date the message was created.
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"Sent"- When the message was sent. There is a delay delivery feature which can

be set by the club or trainer in the modify message section under delivery
date.
"Sender"- Auto ¨the system or the club trainer's name will appear here.
Clicking on any one of the previous categories (recipient, status,
description,
subject, created, sent, or ender) will produce a description that flag in the
text box
immediately below all the flags. The recommendations there are for both safety
and
proper health fitness progression while the user is using the system of the
present
invention.
Fig. 11 illustrates an admin results screen of the health admin module
according
to an embodiment of the present invention. This screen provides specific
detail on a user-
specific basis for particular workouts. The fields and information provided
can be
described as follows:
"Time" ¨ Date and time of the workout that produced the flag. It is worth
noting
that most machines affect more than one muscle group. For example, a chest
press
brings both back and chest muscles into play. It may appear on the screen that
more than
1 set has occurred (which in most weight training programs there will be in
fact multiple
sets) however, both eccentric and concentric contractions (because each use
different
muscle groups) will be displayed as two different results. If this is unclear
as to how many
sets were performed, look under TIME and the time of day will be identical
indicating, in
fact, that it was 1 set.
"Step"-Most machines will follow a particular order, designed by either your
trainer
or the layout of the club.
"Station"- Each station has a name of the primary exercise specific to the
primary
muscle group used at that station. One station can be assigned a primary and a
secondary muscle.
"Muscle"- This will be the name of the specific muscles used at that station.
e.g.
thigh (muscle) - Leg extension (station) etc
"Duration"- The length of time each muscle group is worked in seconds.
"Range of Motion"- The distance any particular muscle has been taken through
with resistance will be recorded as a % of your maximum range of motion. All
machines
have been calibrated during the initial setup of the club. The range of motion
for all
muscle groups is determined in the first workout and then compared against for
each
subsequent workout. An administrator should make sure members performs their
complete range of motion during the initial walk through. Use lighter weights
to ensure
they are able to reach the extreme end of their range.
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"Reps"- The number of times a resistance is lifted and lowered during your
workout.
"Energy"- The energy required by the muscle to produce the numbers of reps
required on your program. Units of measured used here are milijoules, where
1000
milijoules = 1 joule. Dividing the number of joules by 4092 = kilocalories
(Kcals).
"Fatigue"- As muscles exhaust themselves, fatigue will be set in. Too much
fatigue
too early means the weights or reps are too high. Too little fatigue as you
approach the
end of a set means the muscle probably hasn't worked hard enough to see
maximum
benefit. A value approaching -10% is ideal.
"CV (Co Variance)" - A measurement of inconsistency. Analysis stroke length
velocity and its consistency overtime. A value of over 15% will generate a
flag, indicating
an inconsistent repetition.
"Peak HR (heart rate)" - This is a measurement of the highest number of
contractions the muscle achieved at the most intense part of your workout.
This is
calculated over 60 seconds.
= means % of time in the target HR zone.
+ Means % of time spent above the zone
- Means % of time spent below the zone
"Calories"- calories expended during each activity (exercise).
"Current Performance Index" (PI) - Performance workout in the global
performance index during your last workout.
"Target Pl" (performance Index) Your target performance index.
Particular Example of Multiple Device Implementation
An embodiment of the present invention will now be described in relation to
Fig. 12, which illustrates a detailed block diagram of an embodiment of a
multiple device
implementation of the present invention. This discussion will include examples
of
development specifications and components.
As mentioned earlier, the present invention can be implemented as a health
management and communication technology used to collect and monitor physical
and
physiological data including, for example one or more of the following data,
to a
centralized database: heart rate function, muscle function, work load
performance,
workout exertion and training criteria to a centralized database. The HPS can
include
electromechanical, mechanical, components, electronics, and/or software that
communicates with one another to preferably provide an automated process of
health
management.
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The user ID 102 can include a process whereby the user is identified by the
various electronic components and the system 100. A number of technologies can
be
used including a Microchip, Smart Card or RFID device to identify the user to
the system.
Once activated by the User ID system, the most current user profile can
preferably be
uploaded to the local PC. The ID Reader 114 can be implemented as the initial
device
activated by users entering the facility. When activated, the ID reader can
communicate
the user information to the local PC, preferably logging in the presence of
the user and
the associated visitation data. This initial activation can also trigger the
local PC to
download the most current user profile information from the main databank,
such as
through an Internet connection. This can make the current user profile
available for the
user on the local PC and minimize the downtime during the actual workout.
The processor 116 can recall (preferably automatically) the most current user
profile from the local PC and save such data into memory for use during the
current
workout. This function can be triggered by the user activating the processor
116 through
the user ID system 102. Using such data, the processor can manage, display,
and
execute commands to various instructions. This management, display and
execution can
preferably be based on the measured function of activity. The ID system 102
can be worn
on the wrist by the users and activates the kiosk and each EC on the exercise
machines.
Each band can have an RFID microchip imbedded into it where the user data is
saved by
the software to identify the member.
The processor, or data acquisition unit (DAU), 116 is also the primary
controller
that manages the collection of information, and processing of data. It can
provide the
user with vital feedback and communicate with the local PC. The DAU can
feature
multiple inputs for various data collection devices integrated. A feedback
module 118 can
include an LCD display to provide the user with text message and information
instructions
in addition to the LED feedback for workout performance. The DAU can be
activated by
the user ID system and can track data from the wireless heart rate monitor,
preferably
worn by the user during exercise. The feedback module can be implemented as a
display means, such as a digital display, including an LCD display, LED
feedback, keypad
navigation and command functions, though other embodiments are possible.
Information
displayed on the digital display system can processed and management at that
processor
can be based on the measured outcome. The user can interact with the digital
display
system and can perform the various physical activities prescribed.
The system 100 includes a sensor system 110 comprising one or more sensors.
The sensors are mounted to the various parts of the exercise machine such as
the weight
stack, the hydraulic cylinder, the wheel on a bike, etc. In general, a sensor
is mounted on
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a resistance element, or resistance device, of an exercise machine. The
sensors
measure the motion, movement of the resistance device and communicate the data
to the
EC. The EC uses this data to calculate the load, time, work, energy and an
array of other
variables and provides feedback to the user. For various applications, various
sensor
types are used including infrared position, optical encoders, load cells and
potentiometers.
The sensor system 110 in Fig. 12 includes position sensors 172, each of which
can be implemented as an electronic position detection system. The sensors 172
can be
directly connected to the processor 116 and can communicate position and
movement
data as it occurs. The overall movement of position can preferably range from
1 inch to
48 inches at the extreme, though other position movement measurements are
possible.
Various applications of equipment can require various position sensing
capabilities.
The sensor system 110 in Fig. 12 also includes one or more load cells 174,
which
can alternatively be referred to as a load measuring system. The load cell 174
can be
used in weight stack applications, mounted on an existing exercise system to
measure
the load being lifted by the user. This load can be monitored by the processor
116 and
broadcasted to the local PC 120 for data storage and reporting. The processor
116 can
activate various lights and feedback system, or any other type of auditory,
visual or other
indication, to indicate the performance achieved by the user.
The sensor system 110 in Fig. 12 further includes other cardio device sensor
176,
such other cardio devices including, for example, commercial treadmills,
manual and
electronic bikes and other fitness related equipment on the market. The
processor 116
can connect to these sensors 176 and collect data from system usage, process
such data
and deliver it to the local PC 120.
The system 100 in Fig. 12 also includes a heart rate device 178 preferably
worn
on the chest to measure the user's heart rate during physical activity. The
heart rate
device 178 broadcasts the data directly to the EC for processing and feedback.
Heart rate
function can be continuously monitored to ensure the user is training at a
safe and
appropriate heart target zone. Periodic or scheduled measurement can also be
implemented, as can any other measurement scheme. In multiple user
applications, the
heart rate system can have unique IDs, tracked and associated with each user.
The equipment and methods relating to measurement of the heart rate are
optional. By including measurements relating to heart rate, further
functionality is added
to the system, providing for further feedback possibilities. An analysis of
the heart rate
allows the user to get a full picture of what is happening in the body, both
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,
Multiple Clubs Implementation
Fig. 13 is a block diagram of a multiple clubs model of an embodiment of the
present invention. In the exemplary embodiment of Fig. 13, an arrangement is
shown
where a plurality of clubs in national workout facilities can each have an
automated
human performance monitoring and tracking system 100. Each of these systems
100
can be in communication with the central database, or databank, 104 which can
itself be
communication with a plurality of users. This is an example of an
international roll out of
a multiple clubs model.
As is evident from the discussion of different implementations, embodiments of
the present invention can be designed as a common platform technology to meet
the
needs of the many vertical markets in the health space including, for example:
The Home
Exercise Market; The Boutique Hydraulic Health Club Market; The General Health
Club
Market; The Corporate Health Market; The Sports Training Market; The Hotel,
Condominium and Apartment Markets; Child Training and Development Markets;
School
and University Markets; Retirement, Extended Living and Nursing Home Markets;
and
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Markets.
In summary, people need to exercise, they want to lose weight and want to
improve their health without drastically altering their existing lifestyle.
They want to do this
using an easily understood method, in the least amount of time, and in a
convenient
location. They simply want to get healthier and are willing to spend the time
and money to
do so if associated with proven results.
The development of a computerized exercise system incorporating the
advancements in computer technology, abundant research in measured health
outcomes,
advanced training principles, diet, proper exercise and lifestyle can provide
an
advantageous solution for a health-conscious society. This solution attempts
to maximize
human performance and conform to the fundamental laws of human physical
function.
With each of the different types of machine (e.g., hydraulic, weight stacks,
spinning, treadmill, etc.) the reporting software is varied based on the type
of information
relating to that particular exercise or machine. Also, the sensor firmware is
different and is
based on the type of machine on which the sensor is being placed. For example,
the way
that information is processed on the microcontroller for hydraulic systems is
different from
the way that information is processed for spinning applications. While there
are internal
differences in these implementations, the user sees the same results with
respect to
feedback via the electronic controller and the software.
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Specific Example of Hydraulic Equipment
Previous approaches to automating the tracking of fitness information have
centered largely on weight stack machines. Hydraulic machines are used
predominately
in specialized fitness clubs, such as chains of women only fitness clubs. A
hydraulic
exercise machine is any exercise machine that uses a hydraulic piston for
resistance.
Some examples of hydraulic exercise machines include a rowing machine, a
stepper, as
well as entire lines and series of large exercise machines. Instead of using
weight stacks,
these machines use hydraulic pistons for resistance. A hydraulic system is an
isokinetic
form of resistance; so, the harder you push, the more resistance the hydraulic
piston
gives you. One of the ideas behind hydraulic training is to push as hard as
you can and
train as hard as you can, then the machine will resist you proportionately
based on your
exertion. However, while the user is pushing as hard as he can, the user is
not aware of
how much exertion he is making, and whether it is enough of too much with
respect to a
desired training program.
A system according to an embodiment of the present invention allows for
retrofitting hydraulic exercise machines. Embodiments of the present invention
can
provide a feedback system to correlate the hydraulic piston parameters with a
user's
profile and targets with respect to energy exertion in an exercise program.
For known
weight stack machines, known sensors basically comprise a counter placed on
the wheel
that counts and measures the rotation of the wheel as exercises are being
performed. It
is essentially a position sensor. The position sensor information is used to
calculate the
number of repetitions that the user is performing. However, the known systems
do not
know whether the user has performed a full repetition or not. In a more
general sense,
embodiments of the present invention provide for a feedback system for a piece
of
hydraulic equipment. Previously, there has been no non-invasive way to
determine what
a hydraulic piston is doing. Moreover there is no link between the movement
and the
work performed by the piston and the work and exercise performed by a user.
A system according to an embodiment of the present invention is designed to
effectively allow the retrofit of exercise equipment that use a hydraulic
cylinder as a
resistance element. Fig. 14 illustrates a system according to an embodiment of
the
present invention including a hydraulic cylinder having a hydraulic cylinder
sensor. The
system 200 in Fig. 14 parallels the system 100 described earlier, with the
following
elements being equivalent in function: identification devices 102 and 202;
electronic
controllers 112 and 208; communications networks 106 and 206, with 206 being
implemented as a wireless USB connection; computers 120 and 220; and sensor
systems 110 and 210. In the case of Fig. 14, the sensor system 210 comprises a
sensor
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211 retrofitted with a cylinder to determine the effective movement of the
hydraulic
cylinder during the repetitive cycles. Various arrangements are provided for
using this
measured information to calculate a performance factor for the user based on
actual use
of the specific equipment. In a preferred embodiment, the computer system
includes the
ability to enter the particular type of exercise equipment where the hydraulic
cylinders are
known and various factors have been previously determined. In this way,
existing non-
computerized equipment may be quickly adapted by the addition of the
appropriate
sensors on the resistance elements and the inputting of the appropriate factor
for the
computer system.
In an embodiment of the present invention, such as shown in Fig. 14, a sensor
system 210, comprising one or more sensors, is placed on top of a hydraulic
piston. The
displacement, or stroke, of the hydraulic piston can be measured by the
sensor. Knowing
the chemical properties of the oil, and knowing what it takes for that oil to
go through that
orifice, embodiments of the present invention can scientifically and
accurately measure
how much energy it is taking to move that orifice or piston. That value can be
translated
into human performance energy. The user can then be provided with feedback
based on
how much energy they are exerting for every stroke, in real-time. Based on how
hard and
fast the user is moving the piston back and forth, the system can determine
immediately if
the training is appropriate for the desired result.
Therefore, embodiments of the present invention have taken conventional
hydraulic machines for circuit training and turned them into fully intelligent
and automated
devices. In such embodiments, as sensor system can comprises a sensor, such as
a
position sensor, for mounting on a hydraulic piston to measure a stroke of the
piston. The
measurement can be based on a measured piston displacement and on piston
parameters, such as a chemical property of an oil used in the piston, and
other physical
parameters relating to orifice size, force required to move oil through the
piston orifice,
etc.
Embodiments of the present invention can be applied not just to hydraulic
exercise machines, but hydraulic machines, or devices, in general. An
embodiment of
the present invention can be described as a computerized feedback system for a
hydraulic device including: a storage means to store a plurality of user
profiles and
machine profiles; a plurality of hydraulic machine modules each in
communication with
the storage means to receive a stored user profile from the storage means.
Each of the
plurality of hydraulic machine modules includes: a sensor system for coupling
to a
hydraulic machine, such as a hydraulic exercise machine, to measure user
performance
data; and an electronic controller, coupled to the sensor system, to calculate
physical
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exertion, or physical workload, intensity in response to the measured user
performance
data, to determine a physical exertion intensity indication based on a
comparison
between the calculated physical exertion intensity and the user profile, and
to provide the
physical exertion intensity indication as feedback to the user.
The sensor system can include a sensor, such as a position sensor, for
mounting
on a hydraulic piston of the hydraulic machine to measure a stroke of the
piston. The
measurement can be based on a measured piston displacement and on piston
parameters, such as a chemical property of an oil used in the piston, and
other physical
parameters relating to orifice size, force required to move oil through the
piston orifice,
etc.
An Example of Communication Protocol Between RFID and EC
Communication software can be used to manage the communication between the
DAU, User ID System and Local PC. This system can be dependent of the various
communication methods and is preferably implemented using off-the-shelf
protocols as
much as possible. Specific details regarding a non-limiting particular
embodiment will be
described below, though alternatives and modifications are possible.
In a particular embodiment, the PC is configured with a Cypress wireless USB
interface so that if can network to up to 30 EC units. Each EC is identified
to the PC
through its Station ID number (set by dip switches on the PCB) and uniquely
identified by
the wireless USB hub ID that is set during the initial binding procedure. The
PC is
connected to a WUSB Hub via a conventional RS-232 link through which is sends
and
receives data to the EC units. The PC is required to interrogate the Hub to
find out which
EC's are connected and to determine their node addresses (see Cyprus
documentation
for more details on Hub/Node operations). The PC can then match node addresses
to EC
station ID. The EC is connected to the WUSB network through a Node board and
due to
the WUSB protocol will only receive messages intended for it.
The Cypress WUSB communications protocol handles data and error
management and acknowledgment that massages have been successfully sent and
received. Both the PC and EC are to ensure the successful transmission and
receipt of
messages through the ACK/NAK protocol via their respective Hub and Nodes.
RFID Tag
Exercisers are uniquely Identified through the use of an RFID tag that is
issued to
them and programmed with their ID at the PC. This tag is presented to the EC
at the start
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of an exercise routine, and this ID number used by the PC to download relevant
exercise
data to the EC.
The system uses ISO/IEC 15693 global standard for contact less integrated
circuit
cards operating at 13.56 MHz. Each card has 2K user memory.
Each tag comes with a unique ID already programmed into the first blocks of
memory. On first use at the club the PC will read the ID number and link it to
the user
profile which will include club ID membership number, name, address etc.
Block #1 of the tag memory will contain a unique client ID assigned by the PC.

The remaining 2K memory block can be used for client data storage.
On subsequent visits, the PC reads the tag ID, and uses this to call up the
user
records. The EC also reads this ID and sends it to the PC to get the exercise
profile.
Operating Sequence
The flow of data between the EC and the PC can be as follows:
1. The EC continually looks for an RFID tag
2. When an RFID tag is detected, the EC sends a Station ID Message to
the PC
3. The PC checks that the user is valid and then downloads the Exercise
Profile Message to the EC. If the client ID does not match, then the PC will
flag an error.
The EC, if it does not receive an exercise profile within 10 seconds, will
reset itself and
start looking for an RFID tag.
4. After the exercise is complete the Exercise Data is sent from the EC to
the
PC.
Message Protocols
The following details the protocol of the messages transmitted between the EC
and the PC. The length of the Station ID and Exercise Profile messages are
known and
so a message code is used at the start of each message to identify it. The
exercise data
message has the length indicated by the number of strokes.
The WUSB is set to handle message lengths of 8 bytes. Messages longer than 8
bytes are broken into 8 byte packets by the EC or PC software. Each packet
must be
acknowledged before the next is sent.
Where a number is split into 2 or more bytes, the first byte is the least
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Station ID Message
This message is sent from the Exercise Controller to the Host. The Station ID
message is shown as follows:
Message ID: 01H
User 10:4 bytes
Station ID: 1 byte
Exercise Profile Message
The Exercise Profile that is calculated by the PC. based on the machine
settings
and user profile. It contains the data that the EC requires to indicate to the
user their
exercise effort. These calculations are detailed in Performance Calculation
Specification.
This message is sent from the Host to the Exercise Controller and is required
to
be split into 8 byte sections by the PC and re-assembled by the EC. There are
96 bytes in
the message and therefore the EC should receive 12 x 8 byte messages. The
format of
the communication is as follows:
Message ID: 02H
Exercise Number: 2 bytes
Exercise Time: 2 bytes (duration of the exercise in seconds)
Performance Index Time Base: 1 byte (clock multiplier)
Heart Rate Entries: 14 bytes (HRO-HRI3)
Range of Motion Entries: 18 bytes (2 bytes for each entry ROMO-ROMI7)
Cylinder Selling Forward: 1 byte
Cylinder Setting Reverse: 1 byte
Performance Index Forward Entries: 28 bytes (2 bytes for each entry PIFO-
PIF27)
Performance Index Backward Entries: 28 bytes (2 bytes for each entry PIRO-
PIR27)
Exercise Data
The EC captures the exercise data from sensors on the machine and the heart
rate. Typically an exercise routine will be from 30 to 122 seconds, however if
the user
continues exercising can be a maximum of 10 minutes.
The message is initiated by sending a header packet to announce to the PC that

the EC is about to send exercise data. This packet indicates the number of
messages to
follow that corresponds to the number of strokes performed by the user (N).
Stroke zero
is included as this indicates the starting position. Each message is 8 bytes
in length.
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M Nr..,=.µrem.= - _
Header Message
Message Type: 03H
User 1D:4 bytes
Station ID: 1 byte
Number of Strokes: 2 bytes
Data Message (0 to N)
Message Type: 04H
Stroke Number: 2 bytes
Duration of the stroke: 2 bytes (in 0.1 s increment)
Heart Rate: 1 byte (Heart Rate at the end of each stroke)
Cylinder Position: 2 bytes (Sensor Reading at end of each stroke in mm)
An Example of Implementation in a Spinning Application
There are some modifications in terms of the Exercise Controller when used for
spinning exercise machines, including exercise bikes. This type of exercise is
different to
a weight stack or hydraulic machine in that it is intended more for
cardiovascular
conditioning rather than strength. Exercise is also performed on one piece of
equipment
and for a considerably longer time. A typical spinning workout would last 20
to 45
minutes.
Typical example workouts are as follows:
Level Workout Cardio Bike Speed Bike Resistance
Time Zone (rpm) (max 20)
(min) (% MHR)
Beginner 20 55 to 65 40 to 60 3 to 6
Intermediate 45 65 to 75 60 to 80 7 to 12
Weight Loss 20 to 30 55 to 65 40 to 50 1 to 4
_
The exercise controller will be configured with sensors to measure key
parameters
that allow the PC to calculate both Energy used and Power over the course of
the
exercise. Due to the extended exercise time, compared to weight stack and
hydraulic
equipment, the data will need to be transmitted from the EC to the PC at
regular intervals
of 10 to 30 seconds. This enables a continuous update on the PC of the
performance of
the user, which would be particularly useful in a spinning class.
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Because the exercise can be broken down into a number of steps i.e. changing
speed and/or resistance at regular intervals, the PC will need to communicate
with the EC
so that this information can be displayed to the user and the EC indicators
updated.
Workout Programs
The PC will be programmed to enable a user to define a set workout, either
from a
pre-defined standard or to customize a workout. The Exercise Controller will
gather
specific data as the user is exercising, calculate and track performance
against this
workout.
Resistance ¨ will typically be changed during the exercise. For example in an
intermediate workout, the resistance will be gradually increased every 4
minutes, or for a
weight loss program the resistance may be adjusted up and then down.
Speed ¨ similar to resistance, speed may be changed at regular intervals
during
the workout. Speed and the time can be used to calculate an equivalent
distance
travelled if the user was on a road bike.
Performance Index
Performance index for spinning will be based on the user completing the
defined
exercise program. An instantaneous PI level can also be calculated that will
indicate if the
user is currently performing at the proper level and a predictive PI that
would indicate if
the final PI will be achieved if the exercise is continued at the current
rate.
Performance can be related to energy and calories, and the power calculated as

the energy use per unit time. The PI indicator on the EC will be used in a
similar manner
to the hydraulic version, so that a colour change indicated performance from
bad through
to good.
EC Measurements
The EC will measure the flywheel speed of the spinning machine by using a Hall-

effect sensor and a magnet to count revolutions per unit time. Speed will be
calculated
every 10 seconds and transmitted to the PC in the exercise data packet.
The Range of Motion (ROM) display will be used to indicate the Resistance
setting level. This can be set as the setting they must be using on the
graduated
resistance know on the spinning machine, or could indicate the actual setting
of the
resistance if a special sensor is fitted.
Most spinning machines use a friction pad that is spring loaded against the
flywheel as the means to adjust the resistance. A special pressure sensor will
be
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developed that will measure the force of the friction pad against the
flywheel. Knowing the
coefficient of friction between the pad material and the flywheel, the
resistance force can
be calculated.
The digital display on the EC will be used to indicate to the user their
Exercise
Time, Speed and Heart Rate. Heart rate zone will also be displayed in the
usual manner.
Exercise Controller
As before the EC will send a station ID message when an RFID tag is scanned:
Message ID: 01H
User ID: 4 bytes
Station ID: 1 byte
An exercise profile will then be sent to the EC, which will be used to display
data,
performance and heart rate zone.
Message ID: 07H
Heart Rate Entries: 14 bytes (HRO-HR13)
ROM (as resistance indicator): 9 bytes (1 byte for each entry ROMO-
ROM8)
PI Entries: 28 bytes (2 bytes for each entry PI0-P127)
Data of each stroke will then be sent back to the PC at 10 second intervals.
Message Type: 08H
Time (time from exercise start in seconds): 2 bytes
Resistance setting: 1 byte
Speed (current rpm): 1 byte
Heart Rate: 1 byte (Heart Rate at the end of each stroke)
PC Data Analysis
As before, the PC will save the data received from the EC in a database and
used
to display a variety of information. For an individual user this will
summarize their workout,
energy used, calories burned, heart rate etc.
30 In a spinning class there is an added functionality where the trainer
will need to
see the users results in real time. This could be displayed on the wall with a
projector.
This would allow the trainer to focus on individual performance and generate a

competitive atmosphere.
To summarize some of the embodiments that have already been described, some
15 differences with respect to known systems include: the measurement and
use of human
performance index; the feedback system including the glowing lights of
different colours,
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i.e., the user interface; displaying heart rate as a red/yellow/green category
match rather
than a number; the use of performance index as a measure of fitness; the
identification of
a user via an RFID card for a fitness training system, in a hands-free manner;
the
wireless automatic sensing of heart rate for a particular user and relating it
to the user
profile; wireless communication between the elements of a system for fitness
training
purposes; the method of processing repetitions, sets and weight into
meaningful data
representing how the person is performing; providing a graphical interface
showing
energy distribution by muscle group regardless of the product or exercise
machine used.
While known approaches simply provide electronic display of measured results,
the present invention provides feedback by way of which recorded information
is provided
in relation to categories of health parameters that are specific to the user.
Therefore, the
presentation of recorded results as a category-based relationship (i.e. an
indication of
user response to the measured data) to user specific health parameters is
advantageously provided by the present invention,.
Systems of the present invention provide significant functionality with a
modest
financial cost. For example, the cost of implementing one of the known
tracking-only
systems for a ten machine site is about ten times the cost of the same
implementation
using a system of the present invention, and does not provide the advantageous

functionality that the present invention provides. One reason for the
significant cost
difference is that the known systems were developed based on older technology,
such as
racks and server architecture. The present invention uses cutting edge
electronic
components that can be acquired inexpensively to build a wireless feedback
system. As
such, the present invention provides a cost effective approach that is
significantly more
sophisticated in terms of the features and abilities provided.
An embodiment of the present invention can be described as a method of
providing interactive feedback to an exerciser, where the method includes the
following
steps: calculating actual exercise intensity in response to measured user
performance
data; determining an exercise intensity parameter based on a comparison
between the
actual exercise intensity and a target exercise intensity stored in a user
profile; and
providing an indication to the user to increase, sustain, or decrease exercise
intensity
based on the exercise intensity parameter. This method can alternatively be
implemented as a method of instructing a user of an exercise machine.
An embodiment of the present invention can alternatively be described as a
computerized exercise system where individual users are tracked by different
exercise
equipment and the actual results of the individual performance on the exercise
equipment
is monitored and documented for analysis over time as well as specific
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user during use of the equipment. The exercise equipment can be retrofitted
with sensors
provided to resistance elements of the exercise equipment and specific energy
factors
are provided to determine a user's energy in completing exercises. The system
can also
allow inputting of dietary performance of the user and integration of this
information with
respect to the actual exercise performance of the user to provide a indicated
level of
overall performance.
Other Industrial Applications
In addition to the examples described above in relation to the
exercise/fitness
industry, there are many other applications for embodiments of the present
invention.
For example, a central computer can store a plurality of predefined profiles.
Those
predefined profiles can include parameters, such as a PI index, used to
classify or
appraise a user by age, gender and occupation. A user's measured physical
performance
can be compared to a pre-defined profile for that type of individual. A system
can be
used to assign a muscle specific PI Index and a overall global body PI Index
to each user.
The user's measured PI value(s) can be used in the following contexts:
Work Related Job Matching:
a. Matching employees to the jobs they are expected to perform at
work.
b. Objectively identifying injury probability based on collected data from
various workouts by comparing observed performance to job profiles.
c. Modifying, or identifying potential modifications, to the
ergonomics or
physical demands of a job to closer match the physical function of an
individual
performing such a job.
d. Conditioning, or identifying potential training or conditioning
programs, to
condition the individual to better match the required physical demands of
their job.
Rehabilitation and Medical Application:
a. Tracking the physical function and improvements of people in
therapy.
b. Matching the physical function of people in rehab to identify return to
work
readiness.
c. Evaluating the effectiveness of therapy based on injury type and
physical
disability, impairment.
d. Used by insurance companies to establish the degree of functional loss
resulting from injury be objectively establishing the amount of PI loss.
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Sports Teams:
a.
Matching sports players to pre-defined ideal profiles based on played
position and actual sport.
b.
Determining and track individual muscle behaviours prior to the onset of
physical injury.
In the case of job values or profiles, a method can determine a user's
physical
performance, and compare it with a baseline value, such as a job value. The
job value
can be calculated by determining the total job energy required. For example,
in the case
of the job of lifting a box, the total job energy required can be calculated
based on a
measured weight of the box, the height that the box must be lifted, and any
other value.
Based on a knowledge of the muscles required to perform the job, a job profile
can be
generated based on a proportionate distribution of the total job energy. The
method can
provide an identification of an area of shortfall by comparing a user's
measured PI value
with a job PI value. Since muscle-group level information on the target and
the measured
values is available, the method can provide an identification of the
particular muscle
group, or part of the body, which is the cause of the shortfall. In that way,
the method can
also provide an improvement recommendation based on the identified area of
shortfall.
Software/Hardware Implementation
As will be understood by those of skill in the art, many of the methods and
system
components of the present invention can be generally be embodied as hardware,
as
firmware, and/or as software residing on a general purpose, or other suitable,
computer
having a modem or internet connection to a communications network. The
application
software embodying the methods/system components of the present invention can
be
provided on any suitable computer-useable medium for execution by the
computer, such
as CD-ROM, hard disk, read-only memory, or random access memory. In a
presently
preferred embodiment, the application software is written in a suitable
programming
language, such as C++ or Matlab, and can be organized, into software modules
to
perform the method steps. The methods could be implemented in a digital signal
processor (DSP) or other similar hardware-related implementation.
As such, embodiments of the present invention can be provided as a computer-
readable medium including statements and instructions which, when executed by
a
computer, cause the computer to perform the steps of any of the following
methods, as
described above: a method of providing interactive feedback to an exerciser; a
method of
calculating PI based on desired fitness goals; a method of generating a user
training
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program based on targets, the targets not including PI, but the training
program including
PI; a method of calculating a PI value for each movement, or stroke, of an
exercise; a
method of calculating an exercise program profile and parameters based on PI;
or a
method of characterizing a machine-specific exercise program according to Pl.
The above-described embodiments of the present invention are intended to be
examples only. Alterations, modifications and variations may be effected to
the particular
embodiments by those of skill in the art without departing from the scope of
the invention,
which is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.
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Representative Drawing