Athletic performance sensing and/or tracking system and method

Athletic Performance System

[0001] This application is a divisional application for an invention patent application with an application date of September 06, 2007, an application number of 201210405246.8, and an invention title of "sports performance system".

[0002] Related application data

[0003] This application claims priority rights based on U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/824,822 filed on September 7, 2006. The provisional patent application is fully included here and used as a reference.

[0004] Aspects of the present invention relate to and/or can be used in conjunction with the following types of systems and methods, for example, (a) U.S. Patent Application No. 11/166,351 filed in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office on June 27, 2005; (B) U.S. Patent Application No. 11/177,489 filed on July 11, 2005; and (c) U.S. Patent Application No. 11/188, 112 filed on July 25, 2005. Each of these applications is fully included herein by reference.

Technical field

[0005] The present invention relates generally to athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems and methods. Such a system may include components for sensing athletic performance data and/or components for storing and displaying desired information (eg, athletic performance information) to the user. The system according to at least some aspects of the present invention facilitates the transfer of athletic performance data from the performance sensing system to the processing system and/or display device, for example, enabling data input, storage, and storage on or by an electronic display device. Analysis and/or display, here included on known and commercially available electronic display devices or by existing electronic display devices (for example, including devices that are not typically designed and suitable for displaying athletic performance data, such as portable music And/or other audio/video displays or playback devices). Systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention allow more user control and/or changes to entertainment, motivation, and other audio/video content presented to the user via electronic devices during athletic performance.

Background technique

[0006] Contemporary technology has produced a variety of different electronic and/or communication devices that keep users in touch with each other, receive entertainment and notifications. A variety of portable electronic devices can be used for these purposes, such as: cellular phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), pagers, beepers, MP3 or other audio playback devices, radios, portable TVs, DVD players or other video playback Devices, watches, GPS systems, etc. Many people like to carry one or more of these types of devices with them when exercising and/or participating in sports, for example, to keep them in touch with other people (for example, in harsh environments, injuries or emergencies). Next, contact with coaches or practitioners, etc.), keep them entertained, and provide information (for example, time, direction, location, etc.).

[0007] Sports performance monitoring systems also benefit from the recent development of electronic devices and digital technology. The electronic performance monitoring device makes it easy and convenient to perform many physical or physiological characteristics associated with exercise or other sports performance (including, for example, speed and distance data, altitude data, GPS data, heart rate, pulse, blood pressure data, body temperature, etc.) Monitoring. However, such systems have disadvantages in, for example, their portability, convenience, customizability, and/or user-friendliness.

Summary of the invention

[0008] Aspects of the present invention relate to athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems and/or methods. This system and method can include

It includes components for measuring or sensing athletic performance data and/or components for storing and/or displaying desired information associated with athletic performance to the user (or other system). More specific examples of systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may perform one or more of the following functions: sensing one or more physical or physiological parameters associated with athletic performance; storing information about athletic performance; Present music or other media content to users during athletic performance; allow users to create and/or download workout routines, which optionally include music or other media content for presentation during training routines; allow users Store information about the content of each training routine and/or each training activity; Receive user input for ranking the difficulty or intensity of the training; Receive ranking of music or other media content included in or associated with the training routine User input; at the time of presentation of the content, the user rating information on music or other media content is associated with objective data on the users performance during the training routine; during the presentation of specific media content, based on the users personal Input and objective data on media content and/or user performance to modify training routines; provide rewards and/or enhanced features for a certain, limited number of users or specific users Recruit groups; determine the cadence of user performance associated with a variety of training activities; compare the users training characteristics with those of other users, celebrities, athletes, etc.; participate in virtual races, competitions and/or events (For example, for charity, friend competition, etc.); provide incentives and/or at pre-selected times during training and/or during scheduled events (for example, when the user approaches or achieves the goal, personal best, etc.) Reward content, optionally media content; provide special training routines based on user-selected events, characteristics, purposes, etc.; and modify and extend the training routines by adding one or more songs or additional media content to the training routine. The system and method according to the present invention can perform additional functions and/or use any or all of the aforementioned functions in any desired combination or sub-combination.

[0009] Another method of the present invention relates to the operation of the athletic performance sensing and/or tracking system and the execution of the athletic performance sensing and/or tracking method (such as operating the above-mentioned type of system and/or executing the above-mentioned type of method) User interface. Such a user interface may be presented on a display device, such as a display device of a computer and/or a display device of a portable electronic device (for example, a device carried by a user during athletic performance). User interfaces according to at least some examples of the present invention may use common interface interactive elements, features, and/or functions, such as those found in commercially available user interfaces for computers and/or electronic devices. Or functions, such as in the graphical user interface for WINDOWS-based computer systems (available from Microsoft Corporation in Washington, Redmond), MACINTOSH-based computer systems (available from Apple Computer, Inc. in Cupertino, California), etc. Elements, features, and/or functions found; in commercially available cellular phones, personal digital assistants, and/or audio/video playback devices (such as the IPOD system (available from Apple Computer, Inc., Cupertino, California)) Elements, features and/or functions found.

[0010] Aspects of the present invention relate to an athletic performance system, including: a processing system configured to store one or more training routines for a user; and a communication system configured to send at least one training routine to a separate training device, where The user on the training device must perform at least part of at least one training routine.

Description of the drawings

[0011] A more comprehensive understanding of the present invention and at least some of its features and advantages can be obtained by referring to the following description and the accompanying drawings. In the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals indicate the same features throughout the drawings, and In the attached picture:

[0012] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system and example environment in which various aspects and features of the present invention may be practiced or used; [0013] FIG. 2 illustrates an example electronic interface/output or display device combination according to at least some examples of the present invention [0014] FIG. 3 illustrates a schematic line of components provided in an example of the electronic interface device according to the present invention

Figure;

[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic line diagram showing components provided in an example of the athletic performance sensing system according to the present invention;

[0016] FIG. 5 illustrates an example of an athletic performance sensing system according to the present invention, in which an athletic performance data sensor or collection device is installed in a footwear product;

[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of electronic communication between an athletic performance sensing system and an external device according to at least some examples of the present invention;

[0018] FIG. 7 illustrates athletic performance sensing systems and remote systems (eg, systems for storing, tracking, and/or analyzing performance data and/or for providing training routines and/or systems according to at least some examples of the present invention). Or other data systems) examples of electronic communication;

[0019] FIGS. 8 to 19 illustrate various example features that may be provided in and/or controlled by the user interface of the athletic performance sensing system according to at least some examples of the present invention.

Detailed ways

[0020] In the following description of various examples of the present invention, reference is made to the accompanying drawings that form a part of the present invention, and in the accompanying drawings, various aspects in which the present invention can be used and practiced are illustrated by way of illustration. Structure, embodiments and examples. It should be understood that without departing from the scope of the present invention, other embodiments may be used and various illustrated and described elements or steps may be modified in structure and function. Aspects of the present invention relate to any components, features, elements, or steps described as part of the following systems, methods, and user interfaces, and to any desired combination or sub-combination of such components, features, elements, or steps.

[0021] I. General description of the system for practicing various aspects of the present invention

[0022] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to sports performance sensing, for example, measuring, processing, storing, and/or outputting the body and/or associated with sports events, exercise routines, or other physical or sports performances. Physiological data systems and devices (the terms "sports performance" and "training routine" are used in this document to generally refer to any type of sports, exercise, training, routine, etc., including items performed as exercises, as Projects carried out as part of the actual competition, etc.). Some more specific aspects of the present invention relate to systems and methods for providing athletic performance data to an electronic device to enable display, further processing, output, and/or storage of athletic performance information and/or data. According to at least some examples of the present invention, the electronic output device may be (and/or may include at least some functions of the following devices) existing and commercially available electronic audio, video, and/or alphanumeric display or output devices (such as cellular Phones, watches, PDAs, pagers, MP3 players, audio players, radios, portable TVs, portable DVD players, video playback devices, etc.). At least some examples of systems and methods according to the present invention may include or use "adapters" or other interface systems or devices: (a) for receiving data from the athletic performance sensing system and (b) for sending data to an output device , Optionally with There are some intervening data processing to place the data in a desired form or format, for example for direct output on an output device, for storage, for transmission, etc. The interface system or device, when present and/or necessary, can be physically plugged into an existing port or socket provided in the output device (such as a universal serial bus port, serial port, parallel port, or other data or power supply ( power)/recharger input port), including plugging into existing ports known and used in commercially available electronic devices. The advantage of this optional feature is that it provides owners of existing electronic devices (for example, the above-mentioned types of electronic devices) with the ability to display, store, output and/or retransmit physical or physiological data collected during athletic performance (For example, during walking, running, cycling, boating, etc., the user can display the MP3 audio playback device or other electronic devices

View performance data (for example, speed, distance, heart rate, etc.) on the display and/or receive audio information via headphones connected to an MP3 player or other device with audio capabilities, etc.). If desired, the electronic device can directly receive and/or process the performance data, in which case the interface device can be omitted.

[0023] More specific examples of some aspects of the invention are as follows.

[0024] A. Receive subjective user input to control training parameters

[0025] Aspects of the present invention relate to athletic performance tracking and/or control systems, methods, and computer interfaces. For example, such a system may include: (a) a display system (such as a display screen, audio/video output system, etc.) that presents training information to the user, where the training information includes information about the user's training routine; (b) user interface A system that prompts the user to enter a first input about the expected training intensity parameters of the training routine, wherein the user interface system prompts the user to enter the first input after the training routine has started; (c) an input system for receiving the first input; And (d) a processing system programmed and adopted to perform at least one function selected from the following group: (i) taking into account the first input to estimate the training routine, (ii) to provide revisions based at least in part on the first input And/or (iii) modify at least one parameter of the training routine based on the first input. If desired, some or all of these functions may be performed in and/or provided by small, hand-held or other portable electronic devices (such as devices that can be carried by the user during the training routine).

[0026] The tracking and/or control system according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include one or more sensors that sense physical or physiological characteristics related to the user's participation in the training routine. One or more sensors may sense one or more physical or physiological characteristics associated with athletic performance, for example, characteristics of the type described in more detail below. The athletic performance data presented by the display system may include information based on the output from the sensor (such as speed information, distance information, timing information, heart rate, pulse, etc.).

[0027] The user interface system may prompt the user to enter the first input at any desired time during athletic performance. For example, the user interface system can be used during the initial training activity of the entire training routine (e.g., during the first 5 to 10% of the entire training routine time period, and during the first 5 to 10% of a separate training activity within the entire training routine. The initial warm-up time period within) prompts the user to enter this first input (for example, requesting an indication of the desired training intensity level). As another example, the user interface system may prompt the user to enter the first input for the end of the training activity included in the training routine and/or toward the end of the entire training routine (for example, if the users training results up to this time make the user Be in a position where they can achieve their personal best results, achieve goals or milestones, etc.; for the end of the warm-up cycle; immediately before starting a new activity in the training routine, etc.). In some cases or under some conditions, the user interface system may request an indication whether it should be extended (for example, by a certain time period, by adding one or more songs to an existing training routine or activity, etc.) Training activities (or the entire training Regular) user input.

[0028] When appropriate (eg, in response to user input), the processing system can provide a revised training routine or modify at least one parameter of an existing training routine in a number of different ways. For example, based on user input, the training routine can be revised or modified in the following ways: increase the time period associated with at least one training activity in the training routine; reduce the time period associated with at least one training activity in the training routine; increase Resistance level associated with the use of one piece of exercise equipment for at least one training activity in the training routine; reducing the resistance associated with the use of one piece of exercise equipment for at least one training activity in the training routine Level; increase the training speed associated with the use of at least one piece of exercise equipment used in the training routine; decrease the training speed associated with the use of at least one piece of exercise equipment used in the training routine; increase the training speed associated with the use of at least one piece of exercise equipment used in the training routine The climbing, step count goal, or ascent change parameter associated with the use of at least one piece of exercise equipment in the routine; reduction is associated with the use of at least one piece of exercise equipment in the training routine

The climbing, step count goal, or ascent change parameter of the training routine; increase the distance parameter or goal associated with at least one training activity in the training routine; reduce the distance parameter or goal associated with at least one training activity in the training routine; add one or Multiple training activities to training routine; removing one or more activities from the training routine; and/or changing the activities or goals in the training routine. Other ways of modifying or revising the training routine are possible without departing from the present invention.

[0029] Another aspect of the present invention relates to methods for tracking and/or controlling training routines or activities included in athletic performance (for example, methods performed by the various systems described above, such as in one or more users portable devices). (For example, carried during a training routine) and/or one or more personal computers and/or remote computers to which the users portable device can be connected and data can be sent to and/or received from it Methods or methods performed by such devices). Examples of this method and the steps included therein are described above in terms of operating the above example system, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0030] Additional aspects of the present invention relate to a user interface for operating an athletic performance tracking and/or control system, receiving user input, and/or performing athletic performance tracking and/or control methods, for example, including the aforementioned systems and methods. Can be on one or more users portable devices (for example, carried during training routines) and/or one or more personal computers and/or remote computers (the users portable devices can be connected to it and data can be sent to it And/or receive data from) a user interface according to at least some examples of the present invention. This user interface and example components and their features are generally described above in terms of operating the above-described system and performing the above-described methods, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0031] B. Sports performance tracking system, method and user interface using subjective user input

[0032] Another aspect of the present invention relates to an athletic performance tracking system, method, and computer-presented user interface. Such a system may include: (a) a processing system that is programmed and adapted to receive a first parameter indicative of at least associated with the user's athletic performance during the training routine (e.g., physical or physiological data associated with the training routine, Such as speed information, distance information, timing information, heart rate information, pulse information, etc.); and (b) an input system that receives user input that classifies or characterizes the intensity or difficulty of the training routine. The processing system may be further programmed and adapted to present objective data (for example, speed information, distance information, timing information, heart rate information, pulse information, etc.) to users regarding training routines. Using subjective input of the user (and optionally using objective data when present), systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can better design future training routines or parameters, for example, to help better maintain the user To help users better improve their health and/or reach their health goals, and/or help prevent pain, excessive practice, etc.

[0033] The system according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include a storage system that stores data about a plurality of training routines performed by the user and/or stores user input for the intensity or difficulty rating or characterization of each training routine . This storage system can form part of the users portable device (for example, a device carried by the user and/or used during training routines), or it can be provided as a remote system, such as the users personal computer and/or A part of a remote networked computer (optionally a computer to which at least some parts of the user's portable device are connected and to which at least some parts of the user's portable device ultimately send data to and/or receive data from).

[0034] The athletic performance tracking system according to at least some examples of the present invention may further include a training routine design system for designing future training routines based at least in part on the intensity or difficulty of the training routine or characterizing user input . For example, for training classified as "too difficult" or "too strenuous", systems according to at least some examples of the present invention design future training to be slightly less difficult or strenuous (for example, to help prevent pain, excessive exercise, frustration) Wait). On the other hand, for training classified as "too easy", the system according to at least some examples of the present invention will design future training to be slightly less easy, for example, to help users improve their health and fitness better or faster. / Or achieve their health goals.

[0035] Additional aspects of the present invention pertain to methods for tracking athletic performance (e.g., methods performed by the various systems described above, such as portable devices of one or more users (e.g., carried during training routines) and / Or methods executed in one or more personal computers and/or remote computers (to which the user's portable device can be connected and data can be sent to and/or received from it) or methods executed by such devices) . Examples of this method and the steps included therein are described above in terms of operating the above example system, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0036] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a user interface for operating an athletic performance tracking system, receiving user input, and/or performing an athletic performance tracking method, for example, including the aforementioned system and method. Can be on one or more users portable devices (for example, carried during training routines) and/or one or more personal computers and/or remote computers (the users portable devices can be connected to it and data can be sent to it And/or receive data from) a user interface according to at least some examples of the present invention. This user interface and example components and their features are generally described above in terms of operating the above-described system and performing the above-described methods, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0037] C. Sports performance sensing system with media content control including the use of subjective user input

[0038] Another aspect of the present invention relates to including, for example, media content presentation as part of a training routine (optionally including media content data or data identifying desired media content as the main source of data providing or proposing desired training routines). Part) of the sports performance sensing system. Users can create their own training routines or download existing routines, and they can further control (or "mix") the media content that will be played or presented during the course of the training routine. The data providing or proposing training routine information may additionally include data for presenting the desired media content or pointing to a memory location (optionally from an external source) and/or data allowing retrieval or presentation of the desired media content. However, in addition, systems, methods, and computer interfaces according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow users to input their subjective reactions into the media content presented during the training routine. For example, such a system may include: (a) a processing system that is programmed and adapted to receive input indicative of a first parameter associated with at least the user's performance during the training routine, wherein the first parameter includes Connected physical or physiological data (for example, speed, distance, timing, pulse and/or heart rate information, etc.); (b) media content presentation system for retrieving and/or presenting media content to users during training routines (for example, Video display, audio display (such as MP3 or other music playback devices, etc.), etc.); and (c) an input system that receives user input that ranks or characterizes the user's subjective response to the presented media content. This user input can be used, at least in part, to control the future placement of the media content (e.g., increase its playback frequency, decrease its playback frequency, remove it from the playback library, raise it to an "incentive song" or "final incentive" Songs" etc.).

[0039] The processing system in at least some examples of this aspect of the invention may be further programmed and adapted to: (a) Combine the characteristics of the presented media content with at least one physical or physiological parameter (which is different from the one during the training routine). User performance correlation) correlation, and/or (b) display objective data including information about the parameter. In this way, if desired, users can also view objective data about their training before changing the state and/or future arrangement of the media content to see how the media content affects their performance (for example, when the media content is playing Has the media content been improved during the period, etc.).

[0040] Another aspect of the present invention relates to methods for sensing athletic performance data (e.g., methods performed by the various systems described above, such as portable devices of one or more users (e.g., carried during training routines). ) And/or one or more personal computers and/or remote computers (to which the users portable device can be connected and data can be sent to and/or received from it), or performed by such devices Methods). Examples of this method and the steps included therein are described above in terms of operating the above-mentioned example system, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0041] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a user interface for operating an athletic performance sensing system, receiving user input, and/or performing an athletic performance sensing method, for example, including the aforementioned system and method. Can be used on one or more users portable devices (for example, carried during training routines) and/or one or more personal computers and/or remote computers (the users portable devices can be connected to it, and data can be sent to it And/or receive data from) a user interface according to at least some examples of the present invention. Such user interfaces and example components and their features are generally described above in terms of operating the above-described system and performing the above-described methods, and they will be described in more detail below.

[0042] II. Special Examples of the Invention

[0043] Although the exemplary aspects and features of the present invention are generally described above, the following detailed description in conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 19 provides an electronic device and an athletic performance sensing system and method according to an example of the present invention, as well as for A more detailed example of an example user interface for operating this system and performing this method. Those skilled in the art should understand that the following description constitutes a description of examples of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0044] A. Description of various components of an exemplary sensing system according to the present invention

[0045] FIG. 1 illustrates an example system and environment in which various aspects of the invention may be used. As shown in Figure 1, individuals 100 involved in athletic performance or training actions may have one or more sensing devices 102(a), included on their bodies, their clothes, their shoes, their equipment, etc. 102 (b), 102 (c) and 102 (d). These sensing devices can sense data associated with athletic performance, for example, including physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance. As some more specific examples, in the environment illustrated in Figure 1, sensors 102(a) and/or 102(b) can sense foot counts and data associated with such activities (e.g., for pedometers). Type speed and/or distance measurement), GPS data (e.g., position and/or altitude data, time data, etc.), foot impact force data (e.g., for active impact attenuation control), jump height data, etc. The sensor 102(c) can sense pulse, body temperature, blood pressure, degree of hydration, etc., and the sensor 102(d) can sense heart rate, EKG data, and the like. Of course, any number of sensors can be provided, and such sensors can sense any desired type of athletic performance information (e.g., one or more physical or physiological parameters) without departing from the invention. Additional examples of possible types of data about athletic performance that can be sensed and/or collected include, but are not limited to, path data; atmospheric temperature data; atmospheric humidity data; atmospheric pressure Force data; compression data of the insole; air exhalation rate or volume data; air exhalation rate or volume data; EEG data; blood gas content data, etc.

[0046] As will be described in detail below, the user 100 of the system and method according to the example of the present invention may be involved in a wide variety of different sports performance and/or training activities, such sports performance and/or training activities including, For example: a variety of activities using exercise machines (for example, in the gym), such as treadmills, spinning machines, elliptical training machines, stationary bicycles, stair climbing machines, cross-country ski simulators, weightlifting Exercise machines, rowing machines, etc.; and a variety of sports activities that may or may not directly involve the use of exercise machines or other equipment, such as running, walking, yoga, dancing, pilates, stretching, and weightlifting (with free weights) , Fighting practice, tae bo, boxing, wrestling, crew, rowing, kayaking, team-based sports (such as baseball, softball, basketball, football, American football, etc.) , Sports tracking and venue projects, etc. Systems and methods according to at least some aspects of the present invention may receive input data indicating the type of activity the user is involved in, for example, through manual user input, automatic input via electronic communication using certain parts of the system according to the present invention, in response to The semi-automatic input of the user's command, etc., as will be described in more detail below.

[0047] Various sensors, such as 102(a) to 102(d), may also be portable and carried by the individual 100 in any desired manner without departing from the invention. For example, if desired, one or more sensors (such as sensors 102(a) and 102(b) in the illustrated example) can be installed in or on a shoe 104, In or on clothing

(For example, the armband 106 including the sensor 102(c) in this example, in a shirt, shorts, pants, socks, headband, etc.) is provided, and/or combined with a piece of sports equipment (for example, a bicycle , Clubs, rackets, clubs, vehicles, balls, etc.). As another example, as shown in FIG. 1, the sensing device 102(d) may be directly installed on the body of the athlete 100, for example, through adhesives, straps, hooks, other mechanical connectors, and the like.

[0048] The sensing system and/or device 102(a) to U102(d), and any data transmission system associated therewith (for example, such as the wireless transmission or transceiver device shown in FIG. 1 and described below) 108 (e.g., RFID components, radio transceivers, etc.) are installed on and/or in footwear, clothing, sports equipment, adhesive substrates, etc. in any desired manner, for example, the manner includes via paper clips, clips, Adhesive, needle thread, in a pocket, in a suitable container, via hooks and loops, via other fasteners or mechanical structures, etc. Alternatively, if desired, the sensing system or device 102(a) to U102 (d) can be integrally formed with and/or part of shoes, clothing, sports equipment, etc., without departing from the scope of the present invention (for example, installed therein, optionally with Permanently or freely removable, etc.). If desired, one or more sensing devices and its/their associated one or more data transmission systems 108 can be included as part of a single structure, for example, installed in a public The housing and/or mounted on a common printed circuit board, connected to each other, etc., without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, if desired, the housing (if any) can be equipped with ON/OFF switches; with operating lights ( For example, LED, etc.) or other indicators, for example, to indicate the power status (for example, On/off), power supply status (for example, charging to battery operation), remaining battery life, data receiving and/or processing status (for example, standby, receiving, sending, processing, etc.), charging or recharging level Status, etc.

[0049] According to at least some examples of the present invention, multiple sensing devices (eg, devices 102(a) to 102(d)) may collect physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance, and send the data to the output The device 110 is used for display or other output (and optionally storage, further processing, etc.). Any type of output device 110 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, including, for example, existing or "off-the-shelf" output devices 110. More specific examples of suitable output devices 110 include: electronic devices with display screens, such as LED, LCD, or plasma displays; watches; portable audio or other media content storage and/or with audio output, video display, or other output Playback devices, such as radios, tape players, CD players, MP3 players, handheld computing devices, etc.; alphanumeric display devices, such as pagers, pagers, etc.; portable video or audio/video display devices, such as portable TVs, DVD players Portable communication devices, such as cellular phones, radios, etc.; portable computing systems, such as PDAs, hand top or palm computing systems, etc. In the illustrated example, the output device 110 includes an audio or other media content playback device (such as IPOD (available from California, Purchased by Apple Computer Inc. of Cupertino)). The use of this type of arrangement is advantageous in at least some cases, because the athletic performance data can be displayed on the display system of the device 110 and/or the data can be sent to the user 100 via the headset 140 or other audio output device, and therefore The user does not need to obtain and/or carry a separate display device to enable display or transmission of athletic performance data (thus reducing weight, reducing cost, and reducing processing difficulty).

[0050] One cannot simply start sending athletic performance data from the sensing device 102(a) to U102(d) to the existing electronic device 110 and expect the device 110 to work to receive the data and display it in a desired format ( And/or in a user-controllable form or format). Therefore, as shown in FIG. 1 and illustrated in more detail in FIG. 2, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may include an electronic interface device 112 that is physically inserted into the electronic device 110 (for example, to be releasable Way) and carry it with the electronic device 110 during sports performance. As shown in more detail in FIG. 2, the electronic interface device 112 of this example includes a connector system 114 that is physically inserted and connected to an existing input port 116 provided on the electronic device 110 model. The input port 116 to which the connector system 114 of the interface device 112 is connected can be an electronic device

Any type of input ports provided on 110, such as data input ports (for example, parallel ports, serial ports, USB ports, earphones or other sockets or ports, etc.), for example, are used for data input, The input ports for synchronization, recharging, AC power, etc. are similar. The connector system 114 may include suitable connection devices, such as lines, pins, electronic connectors, etc., so as to be electrically connected with corresponding components provided in the input port 116 of the electronic device 110 or other suitable connections (for example, with Allow electronic and/or data communication between the interface device 112 and the electronic device 110). If desired or desired, additional securing elements can be provided to securely hold the interface device 112 and the electronic device 110 together, such as straps, hooks, buckles, paper clips, clips, retaining elements, mechanical Connectors, etc.

[0051] In operation, the electronic interface device 112 may receive signals from one or more external sources, such as a plurality of sensing devices 102(a) to 102(d), for example, passing the signals to the sensing device 102 ( a) to U102 (d) including the data transmission system 108 sent to the data receiving device or system 118 provided in the interface device 112 or provided by the interface device 112 (for example, wireless receiver or transceiver device, wireless transceiver, infrared Receiver, light source receiver, etc.). If desired, each of the data transmission system 108 and the data receiving system 118 may include the capability of receiving input data and transmitting output data without departing from the scope of the present invention (of course, if needed or desired, it may be in each sensing device Separate receiving and transmitting devices or systems are provided on 102(a) to 102(d) and the interface device 112). Although the wireless communication protocol is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, any desired communication method between the sensing devices 102(a) to 102(d) and the interface device 112 can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, if desired The words can include wired connections. Optionally perform data processing in the interface device 112 to place the signals from the sensors 102(a) to 102(d) after the form or format for display and/or use by the display device 110, and This signal is transmitted from the interface device 112 to the electronic device 110 via the connector system 114 (which is physically inserted into the input port 116 of the electronic device 110 in the illustrated example). Once input to the electronic device 110, the input data can be further processed if desired or required, and then displayed to the user in a desired format on the display panel 120.

[0052] Data derived from the body or physiological data from the sensing devices 102(a) to U102(d) may be provided in an appropriate form or format for display on the electronic device 100 or output from the display device 110 Any desired manner without departing from the scope of the present invention. As an example, if desired, the interface device 112 may be specifically designed and/or programmed for use with one or more specific electronic devices 110 (e.g., pre-programmed and/or connected to connect to a specific one or more devices (e.g., Specific modules, etc.) work together and provide output data in a form and format suitable for those devices). In this case, the interface device 112 can be traded and sold specifically for a specific electronic device 110. As another example, if desired, for example, by downloading the display or device driver and/or format data for a particular electronic device 110 from the Internet, a disk, or another source, etc., the interface device 112 can be accessed at a later time. It is programmed to work with many different electronic devices 110. As a more specific example, when the user inserts the interface device 112 into the electronic device 110 (e.g., for the first time), the signals exchanged between the interface device 112 and the electronic device 110 may identify the devices to each other and/or otherwise, for example, Similar to where the personal computer device recognizes newly connected hardware (e.g., mouse, printer, scanner, etc.) and/or executes and newly added hardware or The multiple setting operation modes associated with the software enable the processing system of one of the devices (for example, from a remote or external source, such as the Internet, a disk, a memory included in the interface device 112, etc.) to activate or download the driver or setting information. Of course, other ways of ensuring that the data is placed in an appropriate form or format for display, audio output, or other output can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The processing of placing the data in a form and/or format for display or other output may be in the interface device 112, in the electronic device 110, in the sensor devices 102(a) to U102(d), and/or in any Other desired components or systems occur without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0053] If desired, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the electronic interface device 112 may further include a user input system 122, such as one or more rotary input devices, switches, buttons (as shown in the illustrated example in FIG. 2 Shown),

Mouse or trackball components, touch screen, etc. The user input system 122 can be used, for example, to control one or more aspects of the processing of input data received via the data receiving device 118, to control input data reception (for example, timing, type of information received, on-demand ) Data request, etc.), control the data output to or from the electronic device 110, control the sensing devices 102(a) to U102(d) (for example, activate or deactivate them, etc.), etc. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, an input system on the electronic device 110 (eg, button 124, touch screen, digitizer/stylus-based input, rotary input device, trackball or rolling ball, mouse, etc.) can be used if desired To provide user input data to the interface device 112 and/or to the sensing devices 102(a) to U102(d) or the sensing system (for example, if the connector system 114 or other part of the interface device 112 is designed to accept data from the electronic device 110 input of). As another example, if desired, the interface device 112 and/or the electronic device 110 may be provided to the voice input system, for example, to enable the user to input via voice commands. A user input system of any other required type for controlling any system element and/or for any purpose may be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0054] The electronic device 110 may include additional input and/or output elements, such as ports 126 and 128 as shown in FIG. 2, for example, for earphones (or other audio output), power supply, wireless communication, infrared input , Microphone input, or other devices. If desired, and if these ports 126 and/or 128 are covered when the interface device 112 is attached to the electronic device 110, the interface device 112 can be equipped with external ports similar to ports 126 and/or 128, and can be installed on the interface device 112 Internal circuitry is provided to enable users to plug the same additional device into the interface device 112 as if they can plug into the electronic device 110, and still have the same functional advantages (for example, allowing the desired data, The signal, power, and/or information are delivered to the user, another output, and/or electronic device 110.

[0055] FIG. 3 includes a schematic diagram of various example components that may be included in the electronic interface device 112 according to at least some examples of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3 and described in conjunction with FIGS. 1 and 2, the interface device 112 may include a connection system 114 for physically connecting to an electronic device, and a connection system 114 for connecting from an external source (such as a sensor for sensing athletic performance data). , Computer, network, or other processing system, etc.) to receive input data data transmission and/or receiving system 118 (for example, wireless data receiver or transceiver, infrared receiver, RFID receiver, etc.). In addition, as further shown in FIG. 3, the interface device 112 may include a device for receiving, for example, input via keys, buttons, touch screen, digitizer, voice input, stylus input, rotary dial input, trackball or rolling ball input. , Mouse input, switch and other user input input system 122.

[0056] According to at least some examples of the present invention, the electronic interface device 112 may further include a processing system, for example, a microprocessor 300 for performing various operations, for example, for operating the electronic interface 112, for communicating with one or more Two external data sources for interaction, for receiving user input from one or more sources (for example, via the input system 122, via a computer or network connection, via the transceiver 118, etc.), for interacting with the electronic device 110 (for example, via The wired or pin connection 302 included in the connection system 114 is provided to the output of the electronic device 110) and so on. Any number of lines, pins, or other connections can be provided via the connection system 114 to provide suitable electronic/data communication between the interface device 112 and the external electronic device 110 (for example, in a cellular phone, MP3 player, audio /Video playback devices, PDAs, or other portable electronic devices (including electronic devices that are currently known and commercially available). The connector system 114 can be designed to match the electronic device 110 it is inserted into, so as to provide a path for electronic/data communication between the interface device 112 and the electronic device 110. In addition, if desired, according to at least some examples of the present invention, the microprocessor 300 may include operating system software and/or may process input data from one or more sensing devices 102(a) to 102(d) to Convert data to use In the appropriate form received, used, displayed, and/or output by the electronic device, the data form or format is changed to perform calculations based on the original input data, etc.

[0057] FIG. 3 further illustrates a power supply device 304 included as part of the electronic interface device 112. The power supply unit

304 may include existing batteries, for example, rechargeable or long-life batteries, which are well-known and commonly used in the electronics field. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, the power supply device 304 may receive power input from the electronic device 110 to which it is attached (for example, through input pins, wires, or wires 306 or other connection systems), and use the power input from the electronic device 110 A power source is used to operate various elements and components in the interface device 112 (for example, the microprocessor 300, the data receiving system 118, the input system 122, any operating lights or displays, etc.). As yet another example, if desired, the power source 304 may be connected to an external power source that is optionally used to recharge the rechargeable battery, such as an AC power source, an external battery power source, etc.

[0058] If desired, install, house, or include some or all of the multiple parts illustrated in FIG. 3 in or on the housing system 308, formed in or on a common printed circuit board, or otherwise Formed into a convenient module or package. The connection system 114 may extend at least partially outside the housing 308, may be integrally formed as a part of the housing 308, may be a separate element fixed to the housing 308 (for example, by an adhesive or a connector, etc.), may be at least Partially recessed within the housing, or otherwise may be available and/or included with the housing system 308.

[0059] FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic diagram of the entire athletic performance sensing or tracking system 400 according to at least some examples of the present invention. In this system 400, the electronic interface device 402 is physically inserted into the portable electronic device 404 via a mechanical connection system 406, for example, in a fixed but releasable manner (for example, via friction matching, via a lock pin, or holding Elements, via spring elements, etc.) to hold the two devices together. Optionally, if desired, other independent fixing elements may be provided to at least partially assist in holding the interface device 402 and the portable electronic display device 404 (eg, hooks, straps, snaps, paper clips, clips, buttons, holding elements, etc.) .

[0060] The example system 400 further includes a sensing system 408 for sensing and transmitting a certain type of athletic performance data. More specifically, in this example structure, the athletic performance data sensed by sensors A and/or B (for example, physical or physiological data associated with athletic performance), and data from these sensors are sent to the sensing system A processing system, such as a microprocessor, which can optionally enable storage of data (eg, in a storage system or memory (not shown in Figure 4)), further processing of data, etc. Power may be provided (inside or outside the system 408 module) to operate various components of the sensing system 408, such as sensors, microprocessors, data transfer system 410, memory, and/or any other required or desired components. If desired, the on-board microprocessor of the sensing system 408 can process the sensor data, change its form or format, or otherwise manipulate the data before sending it to other parts of the system 400, if desired. The sensing system 408 may constitute a sensor module such as the modules 102(a) to 102(d) illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0061] At a suitable or desired time (for example, when receiving data requests periodically, automatically, under user commands, etc.), the sensing system 408 may send at least a portion of its data (for example, directly from one or Raw data of a plurality of sensors, data derived at least partially from the raw data, etc.) are sent to the electronic interface device 402, for example, for final output to the user via the electronic device 404. This can be, for example, as shown in FIG. 4, via a wireless data transmission system (for example, from the wireless data transmission or transmission element 410 in the sensing system 408 to the wireless data receiving element 412 in the electronic interface device 402) or any It can be achieved in other desired ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. Any desired wireless protocol, broadcast protocol, or other data transmission protocol may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0062] Once the athletic performance data is received at the electronic interface device 402, the athletic performance data may be further processed if needed or desired, and then provided to the processing system (eg, microprocessor) of the electronic device 404. It can be implemented at any desired time or timing (for example, when a data request is received automatically, periodically, upon user request, etc.) without departing from the scope of the present invention. From here, if desired or desired, the data can be further processed, and then sent to the output device in a form suitable for output to the user (for example, in audio, video, and/or alphanumeric form, etc.).

[0063] In the illustrated example system 400, the power supply 416 for operating the electronic device 404 (for example, it may be a rechargeable battery of a cellular phone, audio playback device, or other portable electronic device) is provided for The power of the electronic interface device 402 is shown by the connection 418 between the power source 416 and the "power" element 424 via the connection system 406. The "power" element in the interface device 402 in this example may be a component that is simply used to distribute power from an external power source (for example, the power supply 416 of the electronic device 404 in this example) to multiple components of the interface device 402 . Alternatively, for example, if the internal wiring of the interface device 402 allows power transfer from the power supply 416 to all desired components of the interface device 402, the power element 424 may be omitted. As yet another example, if desired, power element 424 may constitute a rechargeable battery that can be recharged independently and/or with power provided via power source 416.

[0064] In addition, in this example system 400, user input can be supplied via the input system 420 provided in the portable electronic device 404 to control the electronic interface device 402. For example, if desired, the user may enter a specific mode of operation via an input provided on the electronic device 404 in which various features, functions, or characteristics of the electronic interface device 402 can be controlled. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the electronic interface device 402 may include its own input system (and/or its own power supply), for example, as described above in connection with FIG. 3, without departing from the scope of the present invention (but , Using these components and resources from the electronic device 404 helps reduce the overall size, weight, and cost of the interface device 402 and the system 400).

[0065] Of course, many different arrangements of various elements or components including some or all of the elements or components shown in FIG. 4 may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, additional components or elements may be included in such a system, or one or more of the illustrated components or elements may be eliminated without departing from the scope of the present invention. In addition, if desired, a single electronic interface device 402 and electronic device 404 can be operatively connected at the same time, thereby removing, for example, multiple independent sensors of the type shown with reference numeral 408 (see, for example, the arrangement of FIG. 1). The measurement system receives data input. As another example, if desired, a single sensing system 408 may communicate with multiple interface devices 402 and/or electronic devices 404 individually or simultaneously. Without departing from the scope of the present invention, many changes in the overall structure, components, and architecture of various systems are possible.

[0066] One possible advantage of the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention is that it can supplement the components and infrastructure of existing portable electronic devices (eg, cellular phones, MP3 players, PDAs, etc.) and be connected to them in combination. The electronic interface device that communicates with it electronically is used to allow the existing electronic device to additionally display, output, and/or provide athletic performance data to the user without requiring the user to obtain and carry another electronic device. As described above, supplementing the input system and/or power supply of the existing electronic device used for its display can further reduce the size, weight, cost, and complexity of the interface device, thereby providing additional advantages. Of course, if desired, a separate interface device (for example, 112 or 402) can be eliminated and a separate dedicated electronic device 404 is provided for receiving and displaying athletic performance data (and optionally performing other desired functions). As yet another example, if desired, the electronic device 404 may be configured to directly accept input from the sensing system 408, thereby making the interface device 402 unnecessary.

[0067] Athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems can be provided in many different environments without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 4, if desired, one or more sensors for sensing data (eg, physical or physiological data) associated with athletic performance may be provided in the housing 422, optionally and At least a portion of the data transmission system (eg, wireless transmission or transceiver device 410) and/or other processing or electronic components are provided together, for example, to provide an athletic performance data sensing module or system 408. When provided as a module or otherwise as a separate element, these parts of the athletic performance sensing system (e.g., 408) can be provided in any desired location without departing from the scope of the present invention, for example, assuming their data sensing, Processing, and/or delivery performance is not affected by positioning (compromise). FIG. 5 illustrates an example system and environment 500 in which the athletic performance sensing module 502 is installed in an article of athletic footwear 504. The module 502 may include, for example, one or more sports performance data sensors, data transmission systems, processing performance, power supply, etc. (for example, as shown in Figure 4

System shown 408). Any desired way of installing the module 502 in or on the article of footwear 504 may be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention, such as via a groove, cavity, or container formed in the insole midlayer (for example, in the heel or shoe Bow part); via mounting pockets or elements; via straps, adhesives, mechanical connectors, hook and loop fasteners, retaining elements, etc.; via user-removable connections; etc. Alternatively, if desired, for example, during footwear manufacturing, the module 502 may be embedded or integrally formed as part of the article of footwear 504, and/or permanently secured thereto. As a more specific example, under the footwear insole section, in a manner similar to the container provided in the "PLUSTM ready" footwear available from Beaverton, Oregons NIKE, Inc., you can The module 502 is installed in a container formed in the heel or arch portion of the article of footwear (for example, formed in the midsole portion).

[0068] As further shown in FIG. 5, the module 502 may communicate wirelessly (or otherwise) with an interface device 506, which is physically connected to an electronic device 508, such as a music playback device or a cellular device as shown in FIG. phone. The electronic device 508 may be attached to the user's body, clothing, or equipment, for example, so as to be easily carried, moved, and/or viewed during athletic performance. In general, any of the various athletic performance sensing systems, electronic interface devices, and/or portable electronic devices of the types described above in conjunction with FIGS. 1 to 4 can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. As a more specific example, if desired, a sensing device aboard module 502 can provide step count, timing, and/or other data, and the electronic interface device 506 can process this data to provide a pedometer type speed And/or distance data is used to be output by the electronic device 508. Of course, any type of data may be provided by the module 502, and any desired type of information may be displayed or otherwise output on the electronic device 508 without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0069] Given this general description of a basic athletic performance data collection system according to at least some examples of the present invention, a more detailed description of example features, content, and use of the system and method according to examples of the present invention is as follows.

[0070] B. Description of an exemplary athletic performance sensing and tracking system according to the present invention

[0071] FIGS. 6 and 7 illustrate additional features and usage environments of an exemplary performance sensing and tracking system and method according to the present invention. In addition to running or walking on an open course that uses pedometer-based speed and distance information (or other sensed information), as illustrated in FIG. 1, a system according to at least some examples of the present invention The method and method may be useful for sensing and/or tracking athletic performance characteristics in other places, such as in a gym or nursing home, training room, home, etc. The system 600 of FIG. 6 illustrates a performance module 502 (for example, carried by an athlete during performance, in a shoe 504, as shown in FIG. 5) communicating with a portable electronic device 508 via an interface device 506 (for example, as shown in FIG. Part of the athletes clothing, items worn by the athlete, etc.). See transmission indicator 602 in FIG. 6. In addition to this communication, as illustrated in FIG. 6, any or all of the modules 502, interface devices 506, and/or electronic devices 508 can be configured to communicate with one or more pieces of exercise equipment 604 or other things, for example, in a gym, nursing home Or other equipment or transceiver devices included in the athletic performance settings to exchange data.

[0072] Reference numeral 604 in FIG. 6 may indicate any type of exercise equipment and/or gym, nursing home, home, or other athletic performance settings. For example, reference numeral 604 may indicate many different types of exercise and/or exercise equipment, including, for example, exercise machines commonly found in gyms, such as treadmills, bicycle machines, elliptical exercise machines, stationary bicycles, and stair climbing machines. , Cross-country ski simulator, weightlifting machine, rowing machine, etc. Additionally or alternatively, reference numeral 604 may indicate a variety of performance venues that may or may not directly involve the use of exercise machines, such as for yoga, dancing, Pilates, fighting exercises, stretching exercises, weightlifting, taekwondo, boxing , Wrestling, etc. (for example, practice room). As another example or alternative, reference numeral 604 may represent or include an input device through which the user can enter information about sports or exercise activities that he/she has performed or planned to perform, such as tracking and/ Or field exercises or projects, team sports, free weightlifting, etc. Reference numeral 604 may also be related to physical or physiological parameter measurement systems, such as meters, heart rate monitors, blood pressure

Measuring system, body temperature measuring system, etc. Using systems such as those illustrated in Figure 6, users can use element 604 to generate inputs for tracking any desired type of sports or exercise activities they are involved in and/or physical or physiological parameters related to their exercises.

[0073] Many different types of equipment can be exchanged between exercise equipment 604 (or other training or athletic performance settings or equipment) and portable equipment held by the user (eg, module 502, interface device 506, and/or electronic device 508) Data and information. For example, if desired, the device 604 can be designed to send information to the user device (for example, via the transmission/reception system 606) about the training parameters of an individual training or practice exercise, such as: can be detected or sensed by a gym or training device Measured data, such as distance traveled, speed, ascent change, number of steps, number of layers climbed, total time, speed as a function of time or other data, calories burned, revolutions per minute, number of revolutions, resistance settings, slopes Or tilt information, amount of weight lifted, number of repetitions, weight machine used, etc. Any measured physiological characteristics can also be sent to the user's portable device, such as heart rate, pulse, blood pressure, blood oxygen level, EEG data, EKG data, body temperature, air in/out rate, etc. The transmission/reception system 606 also sends identification information, such as exercise machine identification, room identification, location identification, and other device identification information. The desired data can be sent to the user's portable device at any desired time, such as real-time (when the device 604 collects data), periodically, after the exercise is completed, when the user leaves the gym facility, etc.

[0074] For systems that use pedometer-based information, in addition to detecting speed and/or distance information, in at least some example systems and methods according to the present invention, the sensing system measures or detects information about the user's athletic performance activity. Rhythm, rhythm, or "beat" (for example, steps related to time, rotation, changes in the direction of foot movement, changes in the direction of arm movement, etc., such as steps per second, rotation per minute, stair stepper steps per second , Rowing per minute, etc.) data and information are useful. Accelerometers and/or direction change sensors can be used to determine the rhythm. The module 502 and/or other parts of the portable device (for example, the interface device 506 and/or the electronic device 508) and/or the device 604 may be used to provide data and information about the user's prosody. Rhythm information can be collected about a variety of sports performance activities, including many activities performed in the gym using exercise equipment, such as running or walking on a treadmill, cycling, elliptical exercises, stationary bike exercises, stair stepper exercises, cross-country skiing simulation, rowing Simulation etc. In addition to providing data about athletic performance, prosody information is also used in systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention for the selection of motivation, agitation, performance enhancement, or other media content during athletic performance (for example, for song selection, etc.) ) Is useful, as will be described in more detail below.

[0075] When the reference numeral 604 denotes a facility or a place, it may simply send identifying location and/or timing information (such as time spent at the place). For example, reference numeral 604 may include communicating with the users portable device to indicate when the user enters or leaves a certain room or area (such as a weight room, aerobics room, yoga room, or Pilates studio; combat training facility) Etc.) and/or an RFID or other data transmission device 606 that indicates the amount of time the user spends at the location (such as actual entry and/or departure time, date information, total time spent, etc.). If a particular place is available for multiple activities, a schedule or other information can be provided and/or sent so that the transmission device 606 can also automatically send the type of activity the user is involved in when the location or facility appears. Such data can help users create and/or maintain detailed tracking and/or complete logs of their training activities, for example, even in situations where no physical or physiological data is provided by sensors. Optionally, if desired, users can include in their training calendar or log, for example, additional information for tracking purposes, such as user location data; flight or hotel accommodation information; menstrual cycle data; sports calendar information; Goal or purpose data information; and any desired historical, future, schedule, or goal information.

[0076] Data may also be transferred from the user's portable device (eg, module 502, interface device 506, and/or electronic device 508) to exercise equipment or other training or athletic performance settings 604. For example, user ID information can be sent so that exercise equipment or other training or athletic performance settings 604 can store training data associated with a particular user. As another example, if the period

If desired, the users portable device (for example, the module 502, the interface device 506, and/or the electronic device 508) can be used at least in part to control the exercise equipment or other training or athletic performance settings 604, for example, so that the training machine settings correspond to the presets. Training programmed or downloaded to the users portable device. For example, training information downloaded from training routines stored in portable devices or available through portable devices can be used to control various features of training, such as: weight machine settings, resistance settings, incline (or slope) settings, target distance (or Other total time length or duration) settings, target calories burned (or other physiological-based parameters) settings, treadmill speed or incline settings, etc. As yet another example, if desired, the users portable device can send training identification information (eg, training 12) to the exercise device or other training or athletic performance settings 604, which can then be used The identification information is used to provide desired settings for training of identification from the information stored in the memory. If desired, data collected during training (for example, via module 502, etc.) can also be used to control exercise equipment or other training or athletic performance devices (for example, setting or changing intensity or resistance levels, shortening or extending training time, etc.) . Of course, other information can also be sent to the element 604 from the user's portable device.

[0077] As another possible option or alternatively, if desired, the user's portable equipment (eg, module 502, interface device 506, and/or electronic device 508) may be programmed and adapted to send information to exercise equipment 604, For example, for display by the exercise device 604, for transmission to a remote source (for example, via a network maintained in a gym or nursing home, etc.), and the like. As a more specific example, as described in more detail below, the electronic device 508 may be a playback device that presents audio and/or video information, such as music, video, and/or other entertainment content to the user. If desired, systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention may be arranged and adapted to send the content from electronic device 508 or through electronic device 508 (or other portable device carried by the user) to exercise equipment 604 (or another Device), so that media (or other) content can be displayed or presented on a screen or other output device (for example, an input panel, a touch panel, a TV screen, an audio output system, etc.) provided with the exercise equipment 604. In addition, if desired, in such a system, the input panel or other parts of the exercise device 604 can be programmed and adapted to receive playback features that control the media content (eg, skip songs or other content, replay songs or other content). , Select a song or other content for presentation, etc.) user input.

[0078] FIG. 7 illustrates additional features that may be presented in an example athletic performance sensing and/or tracking system and method according to the present invention. The arrangement 700 shown in FIG. 7 allows a user to send data and information to and/or receive data and information from one or more remote sources, such as from a portable device (eg, module 502, interface device 506, and/or electronic device 508 ) One to a personal computer (for example, in a users home or office) or other computer station 702 (which may include the training equipment itself and/or a computer maintained in a gym or other facility) and/or to a remote system 704 (optionally Via a network connection, such as via the Internet, the remote system 704 may be maintained and operated by the user, by a health center, by a gym, or by another third party. This arrangement 700 may allow for more convenient storage, maintenance, retrieval, and further processing of collected athletic performance data (for example, and limit the user interface, data processing, and/or computing performance of the entire system to the electronic device 508 and/or interface 506 compared to operations performed).

[0079] In addition to storing historical data and information, the arrangement 700 allows downloading data and information from one or more remote systems 704 to the user, for example, to a PC or other device 702 and/or to a portable device 508 (optionally Through the interface device 506). The data can also originate from a PC or other device 702 (without using a remote computer 704) and be sent to the user's portable device 506 and/or 508. In some cases, the remote system 704 (or system 702) can be accessed by multiple users (for example, via a network, such as the Internet or a gym-based network), and such a system can provide a wide variety of data and information to users (for example, Each individual user can have his/her own web page, user ID, password, etc.). In the following, the possible content of the exchanged data and information will be described in more detail in conjunction with FIG. 8 to FIG. 19 as an example. The downloaded data and information can be packaged

Including: pre-programmed training; music or other audio/video content; pre-programmed training that mixes music or other audio/video content including coaching and/or motivational content; comparison data; coaching, safety, and/or Incentive content, etc.

[0080] C. Description of exemplary features of the system and method according to the present invention

[0081] One feature of systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention relates to the ability to sense and track information about many types of athletic performance activities. Data about athletic performance can be automatically, semi-automatically, and/or manually entered in the system and method according to the present invention. A more specific example is as follows.

[0082] When using exercise machines (such as those found in gyms, nursing homes, homes, etc.) to perform sports activities, users can get instant feedback, data, and information about their activities on their portable electronic device 508 Information about their activities includes data and information generated by the module 502 and/or data and information collected or measured by exercise or other equipment 604. For example, this can be achieved by using a system 600 similar to the system shown in FIG. 6. If desired, the device 604 can send (automatically, in response to user input, in response to the activation of the RFID transmission system, etc.) a certain type of identification data or information so that the electronic device 508 or other parts of the portable device carried by the user can be stored Information to track one or more of the following: the type of training activity (for example, the type of machine, etc.), the length of the training, one or more parameters associated with the training, etc.

[0083] Some sports performance activities do not use machines, but they can be performed in specially designated rooms or areas of buildings or facilities. As mentioned above, a transmission device (for example, device 606) may be provided at the venue to automatically, semi-automatically, or manually send data indicating the location or room where the user exists, optionally together with the type of activity taking place there. (For example, based on schedule or other information, for example, instructing the user to participate in dancing lessons, Pilates lessons, aerobics lessons, fighting exercises, weightlifting, etc.). The room may include a wireless transmission system for sending instructions, such as the room ID, the type of activity performed in the room at that moment (for example, karate class, etc.), the user's entry time, the user's leaving time, etc. (optionally by Individual user activation, for example, by pressing a button, turning on a light, signing in, signing to leave, opening a door, etc.). For example, the sent data may be received and stored by the module 502, the interface 506, and/or the electronic device 508. In some cases, even if the machine is not directly involved, such as information about step count, heart rate, pulse, rhythm, accelerometer data, or other data, the sensors included in module 502 (if any) can detect and train these types At least some data associated. For example, the electronic device 508, the interface device 506, and/or the module 502 can derive some characteristics or parameters related to training from the data, such as Burned calories, MET, speed, distance, etc., and can store the data and information. Even if the module 502 cannot detect specific data about training (such as step count, heart rate, etc.), the transmission of room or place identification data to the electronic device 508 (optionally through the module 502) can be useful to the user, for example, Provide an indication that training has occurred and some records, and optionally at least some data indicating the type of training (the data and information can be typed in and included in the user's training history).

[0084] Even in situations where there is no machine, room, or other place 604 from which data is sent and/or even in situations where the module 502 (or the interface device 506 or the electronic device 508) cannot sense data about training Down (for example, when running, jogging or walking outdoors; when participating in dancing, aerobic activities, or other classes; fighting exercises; free weightlifting; team sports (such as baseball, softball, basketball, football, American football, etc.), etc. ), the training information can also be entered into the electronic device 508. For example, the data can be provided by manually typing training information into the electronic device 508. FIG. 8 shows an example of an electronic device 508 having a display screen 800 with an example user interface 810 that allows a user to input information about training or activities in this situation. When a variety of information and a combination of different types of information can be entered, the example interface 810 includes a panel 802 through which the type of activity to be performed is selected from the list and the type of activity through which the type of activity can be entered (for example, optionally in the panel Activities not found in 802) of the other panel 804. Also, if desired. This user

The interface 810 includes "start", "stop" and "pause" buttons that allow the user to record time and/or timing information associated with the training or activity. Third, if the sensors included in the module 502 can detect at least some data associated with these types of training, such as step count, heart rate, pulse or other data, the data can be collected, sent to the electronic device 508, stored, and displayed The screen 80 is presented and/or associated with a specific training. Even when little or no actual training data or little or no actual training data is available from the available sensors, the collection of data in this manner is useful for providing the user with a complete training history indicating him/her (e.g., training date, At least some information on attendance, length of training, etc.) is also useful.

[0085] Moreover, any desired way of inputting data into the interface screen 800 can be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention, such as keyboard, mouse, trackball, rolling ball, stylus, pen, touch screen, touch pad, rotation Input devices, etc. Such interface systems and input devices are well-known and commonly used in the field of electronic devices.

[0086] Of course, any desired data information or content can be requested and/or entered through the user interface 810 without departing from the scope of the present invention. As a more specific example, data input may be requested and/or provided at a lower level than that described above in conjunction with FIG. 8. For example, according to the type of activity, user settings, etc., more detailed information about the timing, duration, intensity, or other characteristics of the activity may be requested via the interface 810. For example, if the selected activity is "free weights" or "weight exercises", the user interface 800 according to at least some examples of the present invention may request to enter additional information, such as the type of weightlifting performed (eg, squat ), dead lift, bench press, militray press, curl, etc.); the number of groups performed; the number of repetitions in each group; the weight lifted by each group, etc.; Wait. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the weight machine and/or individual weight may include an electronic module (eg, for example) that allows certain information to be automatically transmitted to the electronic device 508 (optionally via the module 502 and/or the interface device 506) , Such as accelerometers for sensing changes in direction and transmission systems (such as RFID transmitters), the information such as repeat counting (each up/down movement of weight), weight information for each group, number of groups, etc. The transmission system can be activated automatically, manually, or semi-automatically.

[0087] The systems and methods according to examples of the present invention can provide users with a wide variety of useful information, features, and/or data. For example, systems and methods according to examples of the present invention allow users to store and retrieve data about one or more trainings. For example, the data can be stored on a local computer 702, a remote system 704, portable devices 502, 506, and / Or 508 and so on. Any sensed data, timing information, etc. can be stored, retrieved and further processed and analyzed by the user. The systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may further allow users to compare their training routines, data, and/or fitness level with other information, such as: their own stored training; stored remote system 704 of other users Training (optionally training for specific individuals, such as friends, training partners, etc.; users of the same or similar size, weight, age, gender, health, etc.); similar training for well-known athletes or celebrities; etc. As another example, if desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may further allow users to compare their training routine, data, and/or fitness level with information about sports, they can participate or can Do not participate in such sports, such as road racing, cycling events, triathlons, etc. (for example, "Where does the time now end in last year's Marine Corps Marathon", "I compare the speed of last year's Tour de France champion How to get up" etc.).

[0088] The systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can also be used to provide and/or recommend training (eg, pre-programmed training, optionally considering various factors, such as the users age, height, weight, Health level, gender, past performance, goals, etc.). Such training can be designed by health professionals, for example, for individual users, for general types and general groups of users, and so on. The training or information about the training can be downloaded to the portable electronic device 508 (for example, via the computer 702, from the remote system 704, etc.), and the training or the information about the training can be designed to be before the start of the training and/or

As the training progresses, information is optionally provided to the user in real time. For example, downloaded training can provide users with a variety of information, such as: real-time training parameter feedback (for example, speed, distance covered, steps climbed, elliptical, or other rate information, calories burned, elapsed time, etc.); Training activity or machine change information (for example, when moving to a new machine or activity, "you have finished the treadmill, move to a stationary bicycle for 20 minutes;, machine setting change information (for example, manual or automatic execution), etc.); Training or real-time comparison information with the users "personal best score").

[0089] In addition, the information downloaded and/or presented on the electronic device 508 is not limited to training information. The electronic device 508 may also provide warnings or reminders (for example, suitable warm-up or relaxation reminders, especially when a sudden change in activity is sensed (for example, by module 502), etc.; over practice warnings (for example, by relatively continuous or Training of recent dates); nutrition reminder; etc.). Moreover, because the systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can store information about the training performed by the user over time, they can recognize the users preferences and provide customized training or suggest some training or part of it, so that the user Changes to his/her training routine (to help prevent boredom) and to help him/her better achieve their goals. The systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be programmed and adapted to provide user rewards over time, for example, based on continuous usage, reaching preset goals, and so on. Any type of reward can be provided, such as gifts, prizes, coupons, discount coupons, incentive audio or video content, etc., as will be described in more detail below.

[0090] Because at least some parts of the system and method according to the examples of the present invention can receive data from multiple users, even when the users are not physically located in the same area and/or are not competing at the same time (for example, a virtual race or competition). ), users can also compete with each other and/or otherwise compare their athletic performance. These features can help motivate users and keep them interested in training routines. In addition, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can suggest new training programs to users based on training programs followed by other users (regardless of whether "other users" are known to the original user), optionally with similar dimensions. , Weight or age; the same gender; the same general health level, etc. other users follow or practice procedures. This feature can motivate users to compete and beat their friends or other users in a variety of different training routines. Changing training routines can also help users improve faster, reach their goals, break through the "platform", etc.

[0091] Although the various aspects of the present invention described in this subsection are described for providing data and information to/from the portable electronic device 508, those skilled in the art will recognize that data and information can be sent to/from other devices instead of Depart from the scope of the present invention, such as the module 502, the interface device 506, the user's PC or other input devices or exercise equipment 604 or 702, and so on.

[0092] D. Use of subjective user input and/or feedback in systems and methods according to examples of the present invention

[0093] Systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention utilize user feedback or user input in a variety of ways, for example, to better customize training; change or improve training entertainment and/or motivational content; maintain training "healthy" Wait. Fig. 9 illustrates an example of the system and method according to the present invention, in which user feedback is used to select one or more features of training before the start of the training and/or in the early stages of the training routine. As shown in the figure, in this example, the screen 800 of the electronic device 508 displays the general characteristics of the selected training (for example, a separate training activity) for the training dialog in the panel 900. At a certain time toward the start of the training (for example, before, during, or after the initial warm-up period, etc.), the user is prompted to enter information indicating how he or she "feels" today. More specifically, in the illustrated example, as the warm-up period starts or progresses (as indicated by the time slot deepened in the training schedule shown in the display panel 900), the system and method of this example require The user inputs information about the required training level for the day (for example, input buttons 902a, 902b, and 902c are provided to allow the user to indicate whether "light", "medium" or "strong" is required for the day, respectively). Any number of possible choices of training levels can be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention. Optionally, it can be combined with incentives, guidance, and/or warnings within the media The user interface is displayed to the user together, as described in more detail below (for example, the user is encouraged to select strong training level audio content, reminders of past training, etc.).

[0094] Depending at least in part on the selected training level, the characteristics or parameters of the training vary significantly. For example, if desired, the type of activities included as part of the training can be changed according to the selected training level. As another example, one or more durations of one or more activities may be changed according to the selected training level. As another example, if desired, the amount of resistance, timing/speed/distance target, calorie burn target, total training time, degree of incline, number of groups of free weights, number of repetitions per group, degree of free weights can be changed if desired One or more of the others to increase or decrease the "training level". Moreover, various combinations of the aforementioned possible changes (and other possible changes) may be used to change the "training level" for the user based at least in part on the user's input regarding the desired training level. Moreover, any desired amount of increase or decrease in training level can be performed without departing from the scope of the present invention. If desired, the system and method according to this example of the invention may allow more detailed user input indicating training level parameters, including user input selecting multiple parameters or goals for individual activities and/or overall training.

[0095] If desired, systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of this invention may allow users to "drill down" to view (and possibly change) more information about a particular training or activity. For example, if desired, the user can perform one of the identified training activities (for example, treadmill), which can open additional information about the activity (for example, treadmill, treadmill incline, treadmill preset program information, etc.) ) Another user interface/input panel. If desired, the user can modify more specific aspects of the individual training or activity, for example, through this additional user interface/input panel or in other ways. Any desired number of "continue practice" panels and/or levels for accepting user input may be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0096] The selection and/or modification of user training based on subjective user input is not limited to pre-training, warm-up and/or early training stages. Rather, systems and methods according to some examples of the present invention may periodically prompt users to indicate how they "feel" and/or indicate whether training parameters should be changed in some way. These prompts can occur automatically at a variety of different moments during training or activities, for example, uo predetermined intervals; at predetermined times during training or activities; when the system senses that the user is too difficult to "maintain" the training; when the system senses When it is too easy for the user to keep training (for example, based on pulse or heart rate data, etc.); when the user is likely to exceed his/her personal best, reach goals or milestones, etc. This feature can help motivate users and help them increase their health and/or reach their health goals faster, while helping to avoid user boredom and practice (and possible frustration).

[0097] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a display screen 800 of an electronic device 508 that provides an example user interface in which the user is prompted to provide feedback during the course of a training activity. As shown in the figure, the progress panel 1000 shows the user their current training activity (in this example, elliptical exercise) and the degree to which the activity is completed (in the example, 12% completed). At this time in the example training, the system prompts the user for their subjective feedback (area 1002), asking the user whether the training should be changed. In the illustrated example, the user interface area 1002 provides buttons indicating several user options, namely: maintain the initial training activity parameter 1002a; increase the training activity time target 1002b; reduce the training activity time target 1002c; increase the training activity distance target 1002d ; Reduce the training activity distance target 1002e; increase the training activity intensity by 1002f; reduce the training activity intensity by 1002g; change to the next activity in the selected training routine 1002h (indicating the next type of activity in the interface area 1004 is "treadmill" Training activities); pause training 1002i; or stop training 1002j. Any desired information, changing options, etc. may be included in the user interface area 1002 and/or information similar to the above-mentioned information may be made available through multiple input screens without departing from the scope of the present invention. Moreover, if desired, the user interface screen can be presented with a suitable stimulus Encouragement, guidance, and/or warning messages (for example, audio or video clips that encourage the user to increase his/her level, etc.).

[0098] Subjective user input may also be received and used by systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention after completing training. Figures 11 and 12 illustrate examples of user interface screens that can be used to analyze the situation after training. For example, as shown in Figure 11

As shown, once the training is completed, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be programmed and adapted to provide training information to the user on the display screen 800. In the illustrated example, a training summary area 1100 is provided to indicate various characteristics of training, such as: training identification code ("training 221" in this example); "covered distance" data "elapsed time" data; And "average pace" data. Any type of data or information can be provided in the training summary area 1100 without departing from the scope of the present invention, including physical or physiological data of the user. In addition, if desired, training summary data can be provided for each individual activity or segment included in the training (eg, treadmill, elliptical exercise, weightlifting, etc.), and the type of data provided for multiple different activities can be Same or different (for example, compared with other training (stationary bicycle, elliptical exercise, stair climbing machine, outdoor running, rowing, etc.), treadmill training, training summary data are different). Scroll bars, additional display screens, and/or other ways of providing additional information in the training summary area 1100 may be provided to allow information other than matching information within the area 1100 to be included and/or presented on the electronic device 508.

[0099] FIG. 11 further shows a subjective user input area 1102 on the display screen 800 associated with the post-training analysis. More specifically, the system and method according to this example of the present invention request the user to use the subjective user input area 1102 to "rate training". Although any desired rating and/or possible options may be available for subjective user rating without departing from the scope of the present invention, in the illustrated example, the user has six options for training rating, namely "too easy" 1102a , "Easy" 1102b, "Normal" 1102c, "Difficult" 1102d, "Too difficult" 1102e, and "Most difficult" 1102f. Beneficially, in at least some examples of the system and method according to the present invention, the subjective grading performance (for example, the grading area 1102) will be provided to the user immediately upon completion of the training on the portable electronic device 508 carried by the user, so that The real subjective feelings and effects of training are immediately reflected in the user's mind.

[0100] Subjective data can be used in a variety of ways by systems and methods according to examples of the present invention. For example, once a subjective user rating is received in the rating area 1102 of FIG. 11, an additional post-training analysis screen 1200 may be provided (eg, as illustrated in FIG. 12). The post-training analysis screen 1200 uses subjective grading information and compares the actual parameters of the current training with objective historical data about the same or similar training to provide users with information about the training, their fitness level, and/or whether they are reaching a preset Feedback on the progress of the goal. As shown in FIG. 12, in this example, the user ranks the training as "easy" (area 1202) The post-training analysis of the system and method according to this example of the present invention compares the training with other trainings. Although any desired parameters can be compared, in the illustrated example, compare the objective total distance and average pacing data covered by the current training with the objective data from the previous training and rank (optionally, from the same or similar conditions and / Or parameter training, including at least some training of the same activity, etc.). In addition, in this example, subjective user data is used to provide feedback (in the form of "comments" in area 1204) indicating how the subjective rating of the training compares with the previous training. Any type of annotations and/or other information can be provided in the area 1204 (or in some other way, such as via audio, via By email, etc.), for example, guidance feedback; incentive or congratulatory feedback; reward information (for example, coupons or codes for receiving discounts on sports equipment or clothing, etc.). Subjective feedback can also be used by systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention to automatically modify future training for the user, for example, adding one or more training parameters to training indicated as "easy" or "too easy" (e.g., Distance target, time target, intensity or resistance level settings, etc.), reduce one or more training parameters for training indicated as "too difficult" or "hardest", and/or modify training otherwise to continue challenging and motivating users while preventing After practice, fatigue, frustration, etc.

[0101] The comparison of subjective and/or objective training data is not limited to comparison with the effort made by an individual user and/or historical data generated by an individual user. As described above in conjunction with FIG. 7, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can communicate with remote systems (for example, via the Internet or other network connections), and multiple users can send their training data to one or Multiple identical remote systems. Therefore, subjective data about the users training can be entered into the user

And objective data is compared with training data and/or subjective input generated by other users. In this way, the system, method, and/or user can compare their training and health with other users, such as specific individuals (e.g., their friends, relatives, etc.); famous athletes or celebrities; similar body shapes or other characteristics ( For example, the same gender; the same or similar age, height, weight; the same general health level, etc.). Moreover, the system and method according to some examples of the present invention can provide completely new training for the individual, for example, based on the subjective training feedback of the user; People, similar to people of age, height, weight, health, etc.). Multiple users can participate in virtual races or other healthy competitions (for example, the first to run 100 miles, the first to lift 5000 pounds, etc.), which can help keep users motivated and improve their health. Such virtual races or competitions can also be designed to have charity beneficiaries, for example, where users receive a guarantee of money support for every mile run, etc., similar to actual (non-virtual) road races used to raise money for charity.

[0102] E. Use of music and other content in systems and methods according to examples of the present invention

[0103] Aspects of the present invention further relate to the use of music and/or other audio and/or video content in athletic performance sensing and/or tracking systems. In the system and method according to the example of the present invention, such content is useful in various ways, for example, to provide entertainment, information, guidance messages or reminders, motivational content, and the like. Advantageously, according to at least some examples of the present invention, in addition to being able to download training routines and/or data as described above, the electronic device 508 will also constitute or include an audio and/or video presentation device that allows the user to play and/or Download music, video, or other audio/video data for presentation during the training process (for example, radio, tape player, MP3 player, IPOD device (available from Apple Computer, Inc. in Cupertino, California), etc.).

[0104] Although audio or video presentation devices can be used in existing ways, for example, using user control content and/or output during the training process, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention allow More user interaction and control of content presentation. For example, systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention may allow users to pre-program and/or "mix" their own training with audio/video and/or other content, for example, to "mix" at a desired time and with regard to training The desired timing or relationship of the various stages of a routine or exercise program includes the desired audio/video content (eg, music playback, video playback, instructional or motivational content, etc.). Multiple training routines can be combined, optionally user-mixed training routines, stored and downloaded training routines (optionally including pre-selected or user-selected music), and purchased training routines (optionally including pre-selected or The music selected by the user is stored in or downloaded to the electronic device 508. Moreover, in systems and methods that utilize output devices, networked connections, or other computer base stations or remote stations, users can make their pre-programmed training available to others (for example, "publicly available" or otherwise to one of the systems Or multiple other individuals are selectively available), for example, an electronic device 508 for downloading via a network or otherwise sending to another user.

[0105] FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate a custom training routine that can be used to allow users (or others, such as coaches, practitioners, etc.) to create their own (eg, for their own use, for use by others). Example features of the user interface using etc.). Although these figures illustrate the use of electronic device 508 for user input to provide a user interface and create training routines, those skilled in the art will understand that any computer that communicates with the entire system (eg, via the Internet, via a wired connection, etc.) can be used A training routine is created without departing from the scope of the invention, such as a personal computer 702 and/or another computer in communication with the electronic device 508 and/or the remote system 704 from FIG. 7. Moreover, although specific user interface elements (eg, scroll bars, input areas, etc.) are shown and described in conjunction with FIGS. 13 and 14, other user interface elements, user input hardware, and/or receive user input may be used to create and /Or the way of changing the characteristics of the training routine without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0106] A user-created training routine according to an example of the present invention may include one or more "parts", where "parts" constitute a specific type of training activity, such as warming up, walking, running, cycling, boating, exercise equipment Or gym machines (such as treadmills, stair climbing machines, elliptical machines, exercise bikes, rowing machines, cross-country ski simulators, etc.), weightlifting (free weights or gym machines), yoga, dancing, aerobics, fighting, team sports, Cool-down and so on. In this example system and user interface, any combination of activities can be included in the training routine without departing from the scope of the present invention, for example, including gym or nursing home-based activities, outdoor or free range activities, machine-based or free (non-machine) ) Activities, team sports or individual activities.

[0107] According to an example of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 13, the user can start creating a training by selecting the "add part" button 1032 on the user interface 1300 to add a unique "part" or activity to the training routine. In this example system and interface, adding "parts" or activities to the training routine creates "parts" or activity blocks 1304a, 1304b, and 1304c. Although three activity blocks 1304a, 1304b, and 1304c are illustrated in FIG. 13, any number of activity blocks can be included in the training routine, and can be used, for example, to interact with the scroll bar 1306 or otherwise indicate the desire to watch the training routine. Section to browse other blocks about training routines.

[0108] Once a part or activity block is created, it may initially appear as a blank or a row with the provided "activity type" (see "Part C" in the activity block 1304c in FIG. 13). The user can then select the type of activity desired. For example, as shown in FIG. 13, after adding a part or activity block 1304c in the interface 1300 of this example, the user can indicate the desire to add or change by selecting the "change" block 1308 associated with the "Part C Activity Type" row "Activity type." This action can cause a list of possible "activities" to appear (for example, as a "pop-up box", as a separate screen, as an overlay, etc.), and the user can select the desired activity for training from the list, for example , Use any of a variety of user interface elements and interaction mechanisms and methods as known and used in the art.

[0109] After the activity type is selected, other rows of the activity block can optionally be filled in in a manner that can be changed by the user. The selected activity type can affect the data or information that is filled in and/or included in the remainder of the input line for "parts" or activities. For example, the selection of the type of activity using the exercise machine can be populated to other rows of sections 1304a, 1304b, and/or 1304c to include information about the machine, such as desired speed, desired degree of inclination, desired weight, or Other resistance levels, other desired training intensity characteristics, desired distance, desired calories burned, desired distance, desired total time elapsed, desired machine settings (such as ramp, random, etc.), etc. If desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow users to more finely customize training routines, for example, by providing the ability to control and/or change the desired parameters of training over time during a given activity (e.g. , Change the slope, resistance or intensity level of the machine over time, change the running speed over time, etc.). Although additional rows of a given "portion" 1304a, 1304b, and/or 1304c may be propagated by default, for example, when a portion and/or activity type is initially selected, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow users to or Others are free to customize and/or change the content of these lines, for example, to Any desired manner, if desired, includes the general manner described above for changing the "activity type". Optionally, if desired, the default settings (if any) can be determined based on any desired information, for example, the information includes historical data about the user's total recorded training history, and the user's training history for the specific activity type , Or user preferences or other historical characteristics (such as typical total training time elapsed, distance elapsed, typical speed, typical incline or resistance settings, weight, age, weight loss/increase, etc.).

[0110] As shown in FIG. 13, the data input for creating and relating to multiple training sections 1304a, 1304b, and 1304c includes "songs" (or alternatively other media or other content) that can be presented to the user during this part of the training process. ). When the electronic device 508 is a media playback device (such as an MP3 player, an IPOD device (available from California, Cupertin. Apple

Computer, Inc.) etc.), the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention can play the song list indicated by the user during this part of the training routine. If desired, the presentation of songs or other media content can be more specifically targeted to a specific time or part of the training activity. In these ways, the user can selectively and easily control the media content presented during the training routine and multiple parts of the activity during the training process without the need to adjust the settings or output of the device 508.

[0111] Multiple ways of presenting media content may be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, if desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can play back user-indicated songs in a user-specified order, in a random or changed order, in a continuous looping order, and the like. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the user may include media content in the list or row of the portion 1304a, 1304b, or 1304c that will last longer than the allocated time or duration of the activity, and the system according to the present invention And the method can be adapted to handle the situation in any desired way (e.g., by stopping playback when the activity ends or changes, and optionally when the training activity, training section 1304a, 1034b or 1034c or media content list is used next time. Position or resume playback from the interrupted song, etc.). As yet another possible option, if desired, playback may continue to guide the next training activity (eg, as indicated or sensed by module 502, user input, etc.) to continue to provide entertainment and/or between training activities Or other content to users. Other desired ways of handling these situations can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. Also, if desired, the user can be provided with the ability to replace pre-selected content with new media selections during the training process.

[0112] If insufficient media content is specified for the duration of the activity, the system and method according to the examples of the present invention can also handle the situation in any desired manner without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, the specified song or content can be repeated, and new songs or content can be automatically selected (optionally based on other user input or history, such as from the users "favorites", from the most frequently played content, from having and from the user Identifies content with one or more characteristics that are similar to the content (for example, content with similar beats, rhythms, etc.; content from the same artist or the same type; content "borrowed" from other user training including the same activity, etc.). Other desired ways of handling these situations can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0113] The training portion 1304a, 1304b, or 1304c of the illustrated example includes another feature, namely, one or more "motivation song" rows. If desired, users of systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention can select one or more "motivation songs." The one or more motivational songs (or other audio/video media content) can be played at multiple times during the training routine, for example, in an effort to help motivate users to perform better or continue. For example, when a user of a gym machine approaches a part of training with the highest intensity (such as high incline, high resistance level, increased speed, etc.), the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention can automatically output one of the motivational songs (Or other media content) in an effort to motivate users to spend additional effort to meet additional increased intensity challenges. As another example, one or more motivational songs can be triggered automatically, for example: when the user is close to the personal best (for example, the best split time (split time), the best mile time, the longest total distance, etc.) ); when the user is close to a predetermined time, distance or location in training; when the user is behind a predetermined pace; when the user is close to a pre-selected goal or milestone, etc. Any desired time, timing, or other parameters can be used to trigger the presentation of motivational content without departing from the scope of the present invention (examples of which will be described in more detail below). The Motivational content may also include alphanumeric or textual information (for example, in addition to or in place of audio and/or video content).

[0114] As yet another example, if desired, the device 508 (or 506) may include an "incentive" hardware button, the user interface may include an "incentive" icon, or otherwise the entire system may be rendered easy for the user to manually trigger during a training routine. Motivational content available locally, so that users can easily trigger the presentation of motivational songs or other content at will (for example, if they open

A sense of beginning to lethargy or another feel they have no incentive or behind the pace of their desired output or if they simply decide they want or need to accelerate the pace incentives).

[0115] FIG. 14 illustrates additional possible features available for training of users who customize and mix systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention. In addition to or instead of one or more of the aforementioned motivational song features, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow users (or others) to select audio/video "coaching" or Other "motivators", if desired, can provide encouragement to the user before the training, while the training is in progress, and/or after the training. For example, the user interface area 1402 of the interface 1400 shown in FIG. 14 can be used to select the content source (the "add" button 1410a allows the user to select one or more of the available options to use as coach/motivator voice, video, etc.). Any desired audio/video content can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, including, for example, the voice or video of the following people: the users coach or practitioner; famous athletes or celebrities (e.g., optionally from external sources) For example, the remote source 74 described above in conjunction with FIG. 7 is selected by the user; the memory stored on the electronic device 508, etc.); the spouse of the user; the child of the user; the user, etc. If desired, the user interface 1400 also includes user interaction and/or input elements, such as icons or buttons 1404a and 1404b, which allow the user to record or import (from an external source such as a remote source 704 via the network of FIG. 7) Any desired audio and/or video content to be used as coaching or motivational content (for example, the user's child's voice encourages parents to really work harder to reach a stronger goal, etc.).

[0116] As exemplified by the area 1406 of the user interface 1400 of FIG. 14, for automatically triggering or activating the coach/motivator content, many options and/or situations are available. Any number of different trigger events or situations can be selected by the user and used in a given training routine or activity without departing from the scope of the invention (optionally with some delay between successive activations of the coach/motivator content, for example, to give Opportunities for users to make additional efforts in response to previous coaching/motivator content to prevent content overlap, etc.). For example, the "add" button 1410b may be used to select one or more triggers desired by the user. Moreover, different trainings or parts thereof may include and use different triggering or stimulating events, optionally, events selected and determined by the user. Examples of possible triggers for coaching/motivator content include: falling behind a predetermined pace (for example, slower than the actual trigger pace level; a certain percentage slower than the basic or average pace, etc.); approaching personal best (or personal best) Poor performance); used for training for a predetermined elapsed time; reaching a predetermined distance or position; reaching a predetermined number of sets or repetitions; approaching difficult or severe parts of training; a drop in pulse or heart rate, etc. Moreover, if desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may have automatic or default triggers, optionally in addition to user-selected activation triggers. Live trigger. There is no need to design the system to trigger the coaching or motivator content during each trigger event, for example, if doing so will result in overexposure to the coach/motivator content.

[0117] If desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may additionally or alternatively include and present "reward content" to the user. The user can enter and/or control reward content through the area 1408 of the example user interface 1400. The reward content can take many different forms without departing from the scope of the present invention, such as audio and/or video congratulatory speeches from celebrities, famous athletes, spouses, children, coaches, practitioners, etc. (for example, similar to the above-mentioned guidance/motivation content Source). Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the bonus content may constitute a bonus song, for example, selected by the user, selected from a predetermined list created by the user, or the like. Similar to the coach/motivator content selected by using the user interface 1402, any desired user interface system or element can be used, such as the "add" button 1410c to select the content source for the reward content. The above user interface system or element allows the user interface system or element to be selected from the list Select one or more available options for rewarded content. The reward content can be derived from any desired source, such as from an external source, such as the remote source 704 described above in conjunction with FIG. 7; stored in a memory on the electronic device 508, and so on. If desired, user interaction elements such as icons or buttons 1404a and 1404b can also be used to record or import (from external sources such as remote source 704 via the network of FIG. 7) any desired audio and/or

Video (or other) content to be used as reward content. Although not shown in FIG. 14, the user interface 1400 may also accept user input to indicate the time and/or trigger for activating the reward content, for example, for the achievement of any type of goal (for example, running a lap or separating Increase the number of weights, groups or repetitions when lifting weights; increase the level of incline or resistance on the exercise machine; increase the total time or distance elapsed in the activity; success achieved by the coach or motivation The target indicated by the person, etc.). For example, an area for triggering coach/motivator content similar to area 1406 can be used to specify a reward trigger selected by the user.

[0118] Although reward content can be presented at the end of training or activity, it is not required. Rather, if desired, reward content can be presented at any relevant time during athletic performance, for example, for the achievement of any type of goal or milestone (e.g., running a lap or separated time or distance, or more than a certain pace Fast; increase the number of weights, sets or repetitions when lifting weights; increase the level of incline or resistance on the exercise machine; increase the total time or distance elapsed during the activity, etc.). Presenting reward content in multiple intermediate time periods can serve the dual purpose of providing additional incentive content to users. Bonus content may also constitute alphanumeric or text content (for example, in addition to or in place of audio and/or video content). [0119] FIG. 15 illustrates an example of the use of the display screen 800 of the electronic device 508 to provide a user interface 1500 that includes motivational content, for example, to help motivate users to extend their training, improve their performance, and/or achieve or Exceed their desired health goals or personal best. As the training routine continues in this example system and method, the electronic device 508 receives speed, distance, and timing information and compares this information with the user's past training data regarding his/her personal best. In the illustrated example, the total distance, elapsed time, and current speed are displayed to the user in the area 1502. according to. In addition, the collected data on existing training in this example indicates that the user is close to his/her personal best in terms of total distance covered. Any relevant data can be used to trigger this type of motivational content (for example, total time, total calories burned, current pace, etc.).

[0120] In this case, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may prompt the user to increase his/her effort and/or extend his/her training to strive to reach predetermined goals or milestones and/or set personal best result. The user can be notified of the presence of the prompt on the screen, using audio and/or video indicators, such as call, flashing, or icons, if desired. Multiple types of possible incentive content are described above in conjunction with FIG. 14. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, music (or other audio, video, text, or alphanumeric content) can be used as an motivator. In the illustrated example, the area 1504 of the interface 1500 tells the user that he/she is approaching a certain goal or milestone. The interface 1500 then encourages the user to extend the training, for example, for the length of time represented by at least one additional song. If the user indicates "Yes" in response to the prompt, one or more additional songs will be played and the training will be extended (if the user indicates "No", the training will continue and end at its initial designated time/distance, etc.). The type of interface shown in Fig. 15 can be used in cases where the identified goals, milestones, or personal best results will be extended in a certain way (for example, extended total time, distance, etc.) beyond the training parameters set by the previous user. It is particularly useful, for example, if desired, to give the user the opportunity to maintain his/her initial schedule.

[0121] FIG. 15 illustrates additional possible options that may be available in this situation. Rather than simply playing the next song from a list or randomly selecting a song from the songs stored in or available through the electronic device 508, the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow the user to spend this extended training period During the period, specify to use and/or choose one of their specially identified motivational songs. This can be achieved, for example, by selecting the "incentive song" icon 1506. This action can automatically select a song from the user's pre-designated motivational song list (for example, see FIG. 13), or optionally if the motivational song list includes multiple songs, randomly select from the list. Alternatively, if desired, interaction with icon 1506 may activate a list that allows the user to select a particular motivational song desired at that time. Other interfaces and ways to provide users with motivational songs can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0122] If desired, motivational song icons or buttons (or other interface elements 1506) may appear in some or even all screens of the entire system, method, and user interface according to examples of the present invention. This feature may allow users to easily access and activate motivational content. Additionally or alternatively, if desired, the electronic device 508 (or interface 506 or other device) may be provided with hardware buttons or other hardware elements to allow easy access and/or activation of the user's motivational content.

[0123] Additional examples of features and user interfaces used for motivational songs and motivational song libraries will be described in more detail in conjunction with FIGS. 16-19.

[0124] F. Use of subjective user input regarding music and/or other content in systems and methods according to examples of the present invention

[0125] As described above, for example, as described in conjunction with FIGS. 13-15, one aspect of systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention relates to providing users with entertainment, incentives, and/or reward content (e.g., audio, Video, or other media content, alphanumeric or text content, etc.), for example, strive to keep users from getting bored and/or drive users to improve their health and achieve their goals, etc. Motivation songs (or other media content) can be used at many different times during training, such as when the user has the opportunity to reach a pre-selected goal or milestone; when the user has a chance to reach his personal best; when the user actually reaches the goal, When a milestone is reached or when a personal best is set; when the user is behind a pre-selected pace or goal; when the user requests motivational songs, etc.

[0126] FIG. 16 illustrates an example user interface 1600 through which users select motivational songs based on their own personal preferences. The user interface 1600 may be available to the user in any desired location, for example, the location is provided on the electronic device 508, provided on the user's personal computer 702, downloaded from a remote system or source 704, and so on. In the illustrated example user interface 1600, activation of the interface 1600 generates a song library list 1602, through which the user can select one or more songs (for example, the highlighted "Song C" in this example), and use "Add The button icon 1606 adds it to the "Incentive Song Library" 1604. Optionally, if desired and selection of the "add" button 1606 can activate the system, method, and/or user interface to allow the user to download and purchase media content, for example, from remote, commercial, online sources, etc. The "delete" icon 1608 can be used to remove a song from the motivational song library 1604. Many changes can be made in the content, presentation, and interaction between the user and the user interface of the user interface for identifying and selecting motivational songs and controlling the content of the motivational song library without departing from the scope of the present invention. Moreover, although the above discussion (and most of the following) considers "motivation songs" to describe motivational content, those skilled in the art will recognize that motivational content can be in forms other than songs without departing from the scope of the invention, such as any desired audio, Video and/or media content; alphanumeric or text content; for example, can be presented by a portable playback device carried by the user. [0127] FIG. 16 illustrates another feature available in systems and methods according to at least some examples of this invention. The user interface 1600 of this example requests the user to select "Final Motivation Song" (see area 1610). The final motivational song may or may not be one of the songs included in the motivational song library 1604; and it can be used in a variety of ways. In the illustrated example, the final motivational song can be changed by the selection of the "change" button or icon 1612, followed by the selection of a different song (for example, from the general list 1602 or the motivational song library 1604), or vice versa. When present, other ways of selecting and changing the final motivational song can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0128] The "final motivational song" mentioned above may be used in a variety of ways in the system and method according to the example of the present invention. For example, if the "final motivational song" is one of the users favorite training songs, then designating it as the "final motivational song" may enable it to be determined by the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention compared to other identified "motivation songs". "Use it more frequently. Under this situation and arrangement, users will hear their favorite songs more frequently, but because there are other motivational songs in the library 1604, the final motivational song will not be played in every situation where the motivational song is presented. As another example, the "final motivational song" can be reserved for "special" training occasions, for example, when the user may reach a goal or

Milestones; when you can surpass your personal best, etc., you can use other motivational songs at other times, such as when stimulation is needed, when the user is behind a predetermined pace, etc. As yet another example, if desired, the final motivational song may be reserved for use in response to user input requesting the motivational song (for example, when a button or icon 1506 is selected, as described in connection with FIG. 15), while, for example, Other motivational songs in the library 1604 can be automatically (optionally randomly) selected by the system and method according to the present invention in response to the user's performance (and/or when trying to enhance the user's performance). The system and method according to the examples of the present invention may use the final motivational song (if any) in another way without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0129] Optionally, if desired, the incentive song library can be omitted in the systems and methods according to some examples of the present invention. If desired, a single motivational song (rather than a collection of songs) may be identified by the user, for example, to provide motivational and/or rewarding content.

[0130] Systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may provide additional features regarding motivational songs and/or motivational song libraries. As described above, for example, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may be connected to a remote system (for example, system 704 in FIG. 7) via the Internet or another networked connection. Because the remote system can also receive data from other users, the system and method according to examples of the present invention can propose or recommend media content (eg, motivational song content) to one user based on motivational song information provided by other users. For example, when selecting motivational songs from someone's motivational song library (as shown in FIG. 16), systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may provide suggestions or recommendations of additional motivational songs from the user's library. FIG. 17 illustrates an example of a user interface 1700 for performing this function. As shown in FIG. 17, in the case of selecting a specific song for the user's motivational song library, the system and method according to this example of the present invention can review the song and/or the selection of the motivational song library of other users of the system History (for example, using remote system 704), and provide a list 1702 of other proposed motivational songs based on the motivational song library of other users who have selected the same song for their motivational song library. Once the list 1702 is generated and presented to the user, the user can select one or Multiple songs can be included in their own motivating song library. If desired, an appropriate interface may be provided to enable the user to download and/or purchase any desired songs, for example, from commercial and/or online sources. The "free sampling" icon 1704 allows users to experience at least some parts of the proposed song or media content, such as movie clips (for example, if they do not recognize the content), to provide additional information on which their selection decision is based.

[0131] Proposals for additional songs (including motivational songs) and other media content are not limited to proposals based on specific songs (or other content) selected by the user, and they are not limited to proposals based on other users who have already used the same song (or content) Proposal of choices made. Based on the overall content of the users song library, favorite list, most played list, motivational song library, etc., systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can propose additional songs based on other factors, such as: Songs of the same artist or group as the songs included in the library or list of a user; songs of the same type as the songs included in the library or list of one or more users; have the same type as those included in the library or list of one or more users The songs included in the song have the same or similar tempo or rhythm, etc. Other similarity factors can also play a role in making these proposals, such as the similarity of age, gender, and hobby lists. For example, an appropriate interface as described above in conjunction with FIG. 17 may be provided to display a list or title of proposed songs to the user; enabling the user to download and/or purchase any desired song, for example, from commercial and/or online sources (if If desired); allow users to "sample" and so on.

[0132] In systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention, for example, subjective data input by a user can also be used to at least partially control the usage and/or status of media content (eg, songs, videos, etc.). Figure 18 illustrates an example. When the training progresses and the presentation of the song (or other media content) is complete, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may request subjective user feedback about the song or other content. As shown in Figure 18, the user interface 1800 of this example includes an area 1802 that requests the user to indicate how much they like previous content. In the illustrated example, the user can mention

Six possible responses to the query, namely: (a) Maintain the song in its current state (for example, in its current playlist, with the same playing frequency, etc.); (b) Increase its playing frequency; ( c) Add to the "incentive song library" (for example, the above-mentioned motivational songs); (d) make it a "final motivational song" (for example, the above-mentioned final motivational song); (e) reduce its playback Frequency; and (f) remove it from training. Of course, these are only examples of possible options that can be included in the area 1802. If desired, without departing from the scope of the present invention, additional options may be included, one or more of the listed options may be omitted, other ways of presenting options, etc. may be provided.

[0133] FIG. 18 illustrates another feature available in systems and methods according to at least some examples of this invention. As described above, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may include an electronic module 502 and/or other devices to sense, track, and/or store the characteristics of the users athletic performance (eg, speed and/or distance monitoring system , Rhythm detection or monitoring system, body or physiological parameter measurement system, etc.). Objective data about the user's athletic performance can be tracked with respect to music or other media content presented to the user via the electronic device 508 during training. In this way, the objective effect (if any) of the media content regarding the users athletic performance can be tracked, and the user can make decisions regarding specific media content (for example, its inclusion in the playlist, its playing frequency, its As the state of the motivational song, its state as the final motivational song, etc.), the decision is based at least in part on objective data related to the presentation of the content and the actual performance of the user. In other words, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be used to optionally identify different activity types (for example, when running, when using an elliptical machine, during weightlifting, etc.) to identify positively or negatively Songs and/or other media content that affect the users athletic performance.

[0134] As a more specific example, for at least some users, content that has a beat (e.g., music beat or rhythm) that roughly corresponds to or matches the users rhythm during the training activity (e.g., foot landing during running, bicycle Or elliptical practice machine foot pressing on or off, pulling when rowing, for example, each step or two music beats, etc.) can positively affect the user's performance. In other words, some users may consciously or subconsciously try to keep their footsteps or other performing rhythms up to the music beat. This action can help these users maintain an increased pace for a longer period of time (that is, they can try to maintain the rhythm of the music even when they are tired and will generally slow down). The opposite effect is also possible (for example, when presenting music content with a slower tempo, users can slow down their steps or perform tempo or rhythm). Therefore, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention (for example, systems and methods capable of correlating user performance characteristics with the presentation of audio/video content) can also be used for users who can enhance and/or have shown to enhance their performance. To identify music and other content. In addition, by using data about music or other content that has a positive effect on the users performance, the system and method according to this example of the present invention can identify other content having genre characteristics (for example, similar genres, beats, etc.), and the The system and method can automatically propose or present content (for example, songs) for use Household. As yet another example, if desired, systems and methods in accordance with at least some examples of the present invention may change the playback characteristics of music or other content to better match the characteristics of content that is indicated to have a positive impact on the user's performance (e.g., Speed up and/or slow down the music beat or the playback of music or other content to better match other beats that positively affect the content, better match the user's rhythm or footsteps, and/or help change the user's rhythm, etc.).

[0135] As shown in FIG. 18, the user interface 1800 includes an icon 1804 that allows the user to request objective data about their performance during the presentation of the identified song (or other media content). In the illustrated example, selecting this icon 1804 changes the interface screen 1800, as shown in FIG. 19, to present objective data about the user's athletic performance (if available) during the presentation of the song (or other media content). In the illustrated example, area 1806 of interface 1800 indicates performance change data (if any) sensed during the presentation of the identified song (or other media content). If desired, the user can then change the song status, for example, in the area 1802, based on the additional objective data, in the manner described above

change. If desired, in at least some cases (for example, when a strong positive or message performance influence is sensed), objective data can be automatically presented to the user without user interaction or selection (for example, using interface 1800 and/ Or icon 1804, etc.).

[0136] The stored information about the objective influence of music or other media content related to the user's athletic performance may be used in other ways by systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention. For example, by identifying songs (or other media content) that appear to positively affect a users performance, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be used at a desired time during training (e.g., during the intense part of the training, These songs are automatically presented when a slowdown is sensed, when a predetermined goal or milestone is about to be reached, when a new personal best is about to be reached, etc.). In fact, using objective performance data, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can automatically generate a "motivation song library" and/or identify a "final motivational song", as described above. This automatically generated or identified content can be used in addition to and/or instead of the subjective and user-identified library and/or content described above. Any desired conditions or parameters can be used to identify songs or other content to be included in the automatically generated "incentive song library" and/or "final incentive songs" (for example, increase speed or other performance parameters 1%, 2%, 3% Or more, etc.).

[0137] In addition to using objective data for media content related to output to provide an automatically generated "incentive song library" and/or "final incentive song", the objective data may be used by systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention. The data to at least partially create the user's entire training routine (including mixed music). For example, objective data can be used to create a training routine that includes one or more activity types, where music is automatically selected based on objective data (optionally based on activity type) indicating songs or other content that have positively affected the users performance in the past And/or other content to be included and presented during the training routine (for example, when trying to enhance the users performance).

[0138] In addition to using objective data from a specific individual to be included in the training routine for that individual proposal, objective data about a certain media content and its effects on performance can be shared with others, for example, via remote Source 704, via the network (such as the Internet), etc. As some more specific examples, a training routine or part (including media content) from one user can be used by the system and method according to the present invention to create a training routine or part (including media content) for one or more other users. Content) and/or present certain media content to one or more other users at certain times (found to positively affect the performance of at least one user). Optionally, the system and method according to the example of the present invention can also use objective data and media content to at least partially present training routines (including media content) from a user to one or more general Characteristic users, such as similar height, weight, fitness, training length, activity type, combination of activity type, same gender, same hobby, etc.

[0139] G. Various possible features of systems and methods according to examples of the present invention

[0140] Many variations on the above-mentioned features of the system, method, and user interface thereof can be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention, including variations on the user interface to include features known and public in the art, for example, commercially available Features of the operating system of a computer and/or electronic device. Although the following sections describe some possible and specific changes to the features of the system, method and its user interface, those skilled in the art will recognize that other changes and/or use or inclusion of other features are also possible without departing from these features. The scope of the invention. The following description of these specific features should not be construed as limiting or requiring the system, method, and user interface according to the present invention to include these specific features and/or indicating that the system, method, and user interface according to the present invention may not include additional or different features. .

[0141] 1. Reward programs and/or enhanced feature sets for certain users

[0142] The systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention are not limited to include electronic modules (eg, module 502, pedometer-type speed and/or distance measurement electronic modules, body and/or physiological parameter measurement modules, etc.) as Footwear

Part of the article or the situation and/or arrangement of installing it in the container provided in the article of footwear. Rather, electronic modules can be included in a variety of different products, such as in clothing (for example, shirts or sweatshirts, as shown in Figure 1); provided as a separate element carried or worn by the user; attached to the users body, Clothing, shoes, equipment, etc. (such as the wristband component or adhesively applied module as shown in Figure 1), etc. According to at least some examples of the present invention, any desired way of installing or carrying electronic modules may be used.

[0143] Even for modules that can be installed and effectively used in a variety of different places or locations on the users body, etc., based on the way in which the module is installed, the device to which the module is installed, the way in which the module is used, and the purchase or Obtained items or arrangements, etc., systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may provide different functionalities for modules and/or the entire athletic performance sensing and/or tracking system. As an example, if desired, when purchasing and/or using a module with equipment provided by a certain manufacturer (for example, purchasing, installing, and/or using a predetermined manufacturers clothing, footwear, and/or other equipment, etc.) Using), users of systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may receive a variety of "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets."

[0144] Any desired way of providing and/or activating "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets" may be provided without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, clothing, footwear, and/or other equipment for use with the module may include activations that interact with the electronic module in some way to provide and/or trigger the availability of "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets" And/or at least some parts of the authentication system. For example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 11/166,351 filed on June 27, 2005, U.S. Patent Application No. 11/407,328 filed on April 20, 2006, and May 3, 2006 An example of such an activation and/or authentication system is described in the filed US Patent Application No. 11/416,458. Each of these patent applications is fully incorporated herein by reference. As another example, if desired, when a user purchases an item of clothing, an item of footwear, and/or a piece of sports equipment "enabled" or "prepared" by the module, they can be given direct provision, activation and/or provision of Coupons, Internet codes, passwords, other access codes or other information for access to "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets". Other ways of activating and/or obtaining "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets" and/or authenticating the use of specific clothing items, footwear items and/or a piece of sports equipment can also be used without departing from The scope of the invention.

[0145] The "reward" and/or "enhanced feature set" may also take any desired form without departing from the scope of the present invention.

For example, as described above, "rewards" can constitute free or discounted merchandise (for example, discounts for future purchases, for electronic modules (or other devices) when buying footwear, clothing, or equipment from participating manufacturers Discounts, etc.) coupons (paper or electronic); rebate bids; free additional products along with the purchase of modules and footwear, clothing or equipment from participating manufacturers. As another example, if desired, a remote system for receiving, storing, processing, and/or managing athletic performance data (e.g., system 704 in FIG. 7, such as a website, server, etc.) or other system (e.g., in FIG. 7 on the computer 702 or running through it) can provide enhanced functionality (for example, longer data storage period, additional interface features, Additional data processing and/or display features, etc.). As yet another example, if desired, "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets" may constitute free access to a website or other computer program (optionally a limited number of free access or introduction time periods) for Module users who have purchased shoes, clothes or equipment from participating manufacturers store and process athletic performance data (but users who have not purchased shoes, clothes or equipment from participating manufacturers need to pay or higher fees to access Website or computer system, optionally monthly Or other booking type fees, etc.). Many other types of "rewards" and/or "enhanced feature sets" are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0146] 2. Sports performance data presentation

[0147] As is known, existing sports performance and exercise equipment can present users with information about their performance or training.

Data and information (for example, distance, time, speed, calories burned, metabolic equivalent ("MET"), etc.). Systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be programmed and adapted to provide performance data and/or information to users in other forms or formats, for example, to be more entertaining, motivating, goal-oriented, etc. For example, for distance, it does not only indicate the number of miles or kilometers traveled, and distance data (for example, the distance traveled for a given training, the distance traveled in two or more training sessions, the total travel distance, etc.) can be presented as An indication of the distance traveled in the "real world". As a more specific example, a map (for example, the user's local area, a state map, a map of the United States, a world map, etc.) in which the travel distance data is a relevant area may be presented, showing the distance traveled by the user on the map. This presentation tool can help provide motivation and/or help users better define and visualize goals. For example, a user may have a "goal" of running on a treadmill or riding on a stationary bicycle "across the state of their home" within a specific time period (e.g., one month), or during a specific time period (e.g., one month). Years) within the "target" of the distance "crossing the United States". Presenting such users' progress on the map helps them easily visualize their goals and current progress and/or provide incentives to continue working toward future goals. Available in a single Multiple users are shown on the map (optionally users involved in a virtual race competing with each other and/or striving to achieve a common goal), for example, for the purpose of further motivation.

[0148] The user's progress and/or goals can be presented on a map of any desired area without departing from the scope of the present invention (for example, a locally relevant map, a map of an area familiar and/or selected by the user, etc.). Additionally or alternatively, the map may be changed over time, optionally automatically by the system and/or method according to the present invention. For example, for users with long-distance running or cycling goals, the displayed map may change when approaching and/or reaching a certain milestone. For example, as the user's distance accumulates over time, the progress for treadmill or exercise bike users who have the goal of running or cycling to "cross the United States" can be displayed in a variety of ways. During training in which the cumulative distance of the user exceeds or approaches 350 miles, the system and method according to at least some examples of the present invention may display maps including California, San Di ego, and Ari zona, Phoenix, and tell the user, for example, as follows : "Congratulations, today you passed the 350-mile mark toward your goal. As shown on the map, you started running in San Diego, and you will arrive at Phoenix today! In the next time, the user will arrive 700 miles mark. On that day, the system and method according to this example of the present invention will display a map including Washington, DC, and Illinois, Chicago and tell the user, for example, as follows: "Congratulations today for you The target passed the 700-mile mark, as shown on the map, which is equal to the distance between Washingtone.C. and Illinois, Chicago. Keep going!" Of course, there are many kinds of messages, maps, start/ The end position etc. do not depart from the scope of the present invention, and user input may be provided at least in part to indicate or define these features.

[0149] "Real-world" goals for other types of training activities may include, for example: a total weightlifting goal sufficient to lift the Brooklyn Bridge (eg, # X repetition/group # of the pound X group, etc.); sufficient to climb The climbing target for the total number of floors or mountain slopes of Mount Everest; the total number of miles target for rowing enough to pass through Michigan Lake; the total number of skiing miles target enough for skiing to the North Pole, etc. Any desired "real world" goals can be presented visually or otherwise in an effort to entertain and motivate users over time and keep them interested in continuing their training routine.

[0150] It may also be useful to use "real world" terms to refer to other measured training parameters, for example, for entertainment, motivation, and/or goal-driven purposes. As another example, information about training intensity data (for example, calories burned, MET, etc.) may be presented or displayed in more "real world" forms or formats. As a more specific example, certain foods or beverages that are equivalent to "calorie" data and information can be presented in real-world terms (eg, before targeted training, during training, and/or in post-training analysis). Of course, the display can present any desired food or beverage to the user without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, if the user selects the "calories burned" goal before starting training, the system and method according to examples of the present invention may display an icon or image of food or drink corresponding to the calorie burn goal (for example,

Display on the display of the exercise equipment, display on the portable electronic device 508, for example, three hamburgers, two glasses of wine, a complete meal, etc.). Later, as the training progresses, these icons or images will disappear and/or change appearance to indicate the degree of completion of the training. Any desired way of presenting and/or changing an image or icon can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention, such as: changing the color of the icon or image (optionally partly changed with training); making the icon or image more and more More parts fade, darken, or disappear, etc.; make more and more parts of the icon or image colored or appear; display an "X" on the icon or image (for example, slowly on the food or drink icon or image Superimpose "X", "No" symbols, or similar characters or icons, etc.) and so on. Additionally or additionally, the burned calorie data and post-training (or other time) information can be displayed as (for example, on the exercise equipment, on the electronic device 508, on the post-training analysis computer (such as in Figure 7) Computer 702) etc.) Equivalent images or icons of food, drink and/or meal.

[0151] 3. Special or directed training goals

[0152] As described above, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be used to provide users with pre-programmed training (optionally, user-designed training routines, third-party-designed training routines, purchased training, download Training, its combination, etc.). Such training may include a variety of different types of activities, and optionally activities that change with training (for example, different types of activities on different days, different training parameters on different days, etc.).

[0153] Systems and methods according to certain examples of the present invention may also allow users to define their training and/or goals in other ways. For example, users can state their goals in more "real world" terms, such as: "before the wedding" (or before the dance, reunion before the course, or other events) weight loss training program; "swimsuit" training program; "muscles" "Flax arm management" training program; "blood pressure reduction" training program; "cholesterol control" training program, etc. Given these "real world goals", optionally combined with other data about the user or goal (for example, gender, height, weight, current fitness, training history, dates of events, etc.), according to at least some examples of the present invention The system and method may provide training programs designed to help users better achieve desired goals (optionally, receive input from experts).

[0154] The training program can be designed by a third party (for example, coaches, nutritionists, practitioners, physicians, etc.), optionally specially designed for specific requesting individuals, or by the system and method according to the present invention from pre-designed and stored The training programs available to the user are automatically selected. For example, the training routine for any single day can be downloaded from another source (for example, the remote computer 704 or the local computer 702 in FIG. 7 from an optical disc or other memory device, etc.) to the electronic device 508, the electronic module 502, and the interface device. 506, etc., which can optionally be used to control exercise equipment and/or other aspects of training, as described above.

[0155] 4. Other data or information presentation technology

[0156] User movement or activity when making or participating in sports or performance may make it difficult to read the screen on the small electronic device 508 in at least some situations (eg, during a particularly intense part of a training or event, etc.) Detailed information provided on 800 (for example, especially if the information is presented in small fonts, etc.). Systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention can be designed to provide users with at least some information in a manner that can be quickly identified, for example, in a manner that does not require reading a small print.

[0157] One way of providing information to the user in a quickly recognizable manner is about the background color presented on the display screen 800. For example, if desired, systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may make certain background colors corresponding to physical or physiological parameters associated with training. As a more specific example, the background color can be related to physical or physiological parameters, such as current heart rate, total calories burned, total distance performed, current pace, percentage of training completed, and so on. Although any desired relationship between background color and physical or physiological parameters can be used without departing from the scope of the invention, in some examples of the invention the color changes with the visible spectrum (for example, purple (for light/static/ The physical or physiological parameters at the beginning, such as resting heart rate, change to red (for the physical or physiological parameters at the end of the

Risk or desired maximum level of heart rate), optionally with intermediate changes through one or more of blue, green, yellow, orange, etc., to indicate the level of one or more physical or physiological parameters. Of course, any number of colors, color combinations, color change schemes, etc. (including gray levels, mesh or hatching, or font types/characters, etc.) can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. The color coding element (for example, which color to use and the way in which the color is related to the level of physical or physiological parameters) may be selected by the user; preset by the system and/or method; at least partly based on the user's personal characteristics (for example, , Age, gender, height, weight, fitness, history, etc.); and/or set in any other desired manner and/or using any other desired information.

[0158] There is no need to change or color-code the entire background of the screen 800 to obtain the advantages of these example aspects of the present invention. As another example, if desired, the border of the screen 800 may include these types of color changes and/or color coding features (if desired, a single (possibly multi-colored) border may be used to provide more than one border or multiple A color-coded parameter to provide more than one parameter information). As another example, a portion of the screen (eg, "intensity block" in the upper left corner, etc.) may be provided to include one or more of these types of color change and/or color coding features. As yet another example, the desired physical or physiological data can be presented graphically or graphically, such as through bar graphs, "progress" graphs (for example, with a graph used to show the remaining download time in a commercially available computer operating system). Graphic similar), analog display (for example, analog speedometer or tachometer type display, etc.), jumping ball or other icon elements (for example, similar to the graphical elements provided in existing sound equalizer devices and/or applications) Wait. As yet another example, the font color (rather than the background color) may be changed (for example, using the above-mentioned color scheme) to quickly and easily provide information to the user, for example, the above-mentioned type of information.

[0159] 5. Health/Training/Intensity Index

[0160] Systems and methods according to at least some examples of the present invention may allow users, equipment manufacturers, coaches, practitioners, or others to design their own parameters or indexes to track someones health, training difficulty, training intensity, And/or training characteristics. Any desired data and/or information can be used to form these index formulas, such as: age; gender; height; weight; training intensity data (for example, speed, setting resistance level, setting incline level, number of groups, number of repetitions, etc.) ; Training time/duration; elapsed time; elapsed distance; user's training history; burned calories; MET, etc. Any desired mathematical formulas, algorithms, or schemes for combining information about one or more of these data items can be used without departing from the scope of the present invention to achieve the measurement, tracking and/or comparison of one or more individual health And/or the desired "index" of training characteristics.

[0161] III. Conclusion

[0162] Although the present invention has been described with respect to specific examples including currently preferred modes for carrying out the present invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that there are many variations and permutations of the aforementioned systems and methods. For example, multiple aspects of the present invention may be used in different combinations, and multiple different sub-combinations of aspects of the present invention may be used with a single system or method without departing from the scope of the present invention. Moreover, various elements, components and/or steps mentioned above may be changed, their order may be changed, and additional elements, components and/or steps may be omitted and/or added without departing from the scope of the present invention. Additionally, although specific user interface elements and formats are shown in the illustrated examples, those skilled in the art will understand that any desired way of presenting information to users and/or receiving their input can be used without departing from the present invention Range. Also, while most of the above description relates to a user interface provided on a portable electronic device (eg, device 508) that can be carried by the user during the performance, this is not required. Alternatively or additionally, if desired, other computers, such as a personal computer (for example, PC 702), exercise equipment display or input panel, remote computer (for example, a central computer in a gym, a networked computer, etc.), etc. can be used. Access, operate, and/or control any feature of the aforementioned system, method, and/or user interface. Therefore, it should be as

Please explain the present invention as broadly as proposed.