Rfid triggered personal athletic device

0001Related application This application claims the benefits of US Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 909,212, filed March 30, 2007 and incorporated by reference and forming part of this specification.

0002Technical field The present invention, as a whole, relates to personal devices used in athletic activity, and more particularly to devices worn by exercisers such as runners, which have RFID source-triggered functionality.

0003Background of the invention Running is a popular form of physical health. In general running activities, runners often participate in race events such as marathons, 5km runs, 10km runs, or other races of various distances. To determine fitness level and progress, runners often record the time it takes to complete a race. Runners often have access to a stopwatch that records elapsed time, which is incorporated into traditional watches. The wristwatch may have the ability to remember the split time as the runner progresses along the race course by manually pressing the lap / split button on the wristwatch. Technological advances have led to more advanced time management, especially in race events involving hundreds or even thousands of runners. Brought to keep). For example, one system provides an automatic timekeeping system that utilizes radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. In the system, the mat on which the antenna is incorporated is located at the start, finish, and other timekeeping positions along the race course. The runner wears a small transponder that interacts with the mat as the runner progresses along the race course. As the runner runs through the event, the time is automatically managed through the interaction between the transponder and the mat. The time data is transmitted to the central position where race officials can monitor the progress of the race and the times of all participants.

0004These types of race event systems are typically managed by the race organizer. Therefore, the time data is also controlled by the race organizer. By using a formal race event transponder associated with the system, the runner has limited control over the timekeeping data and does not have easy access for further use of the timekeeping data. In addition, the equipment usually has to be returned to the race organizer. In certain cases where the transponder can be purchased separately, the transponder generally has no further utility except in other races that utilize the same type of timekeeping system. Therefore, some race event devices offer some advantageous features, but still have certain limitations. It is an object of the present invention to overcome some of these limitations and other drawbacks of the prior art and to provide new features that were not previously available.

0005The present invention discloses a personal exercise device having functionality triggered by an RFID source. In one exemplary embodiment, the personal exercise device is used in an automated timekeeping system that utilizes RFID technology.

0006According to one aspect of the invention, the runner wears a personal exercise device during the race. Multiple mats will be provided along the race course. Matt has an antenna and produces a magnetic field. The personal exercise device has a chip system with RFID tags and a display. As the runner progresses along the course, RFID tags are triggered on each mat and the split time and total elapsed time are displayed on device 10.

0007According to another aspect of the invention, the target split time can be uploaded to a personal exercise device. As the runner progresses along the race course, the actual split time is displayed adjacent to the target split time for comparison by the runner. More functionality can be given to the device to give the runner more pace information.

0008According to another aspect of the invention, the device comprises a display that is a bistable display. The bistable display is designed to permanently show the runner's finish time in the race. The device is used as a souvenir or souvenir of the race.

0009These and other objectives and advantages will become apparent from the description of the drawings below and the detailed description of the invention. [Invention 101] Mounting members worn by exercisers; Transceiver coupled to a mounting member for receiving signals during a timed event; and A display coupled to a mounting member for displaying data related to timed events Personal equipment worn by athletes during timed events, including. [Invention 102] The personal device of the present invention 101, wherein the transceiver further comprises an RFID transceiver. [Invention 103] The personal device of the invention 101, wherein the display shows the split time of the exerciser during a timed event. [Invention 104] The personal device of the invention 103, wherein the display further shows a predetermined split time of the exerciser during a timed event. [Invention 105] The personal device of the invention 104, wherein the display further shows a comparison between the split time of the exerciser during the timed event and the predetermined split time of the exerciser during the timed event. [Invention 106] The personal device of the present invention 101, wherein the display shows the elapsed time of the exerciser during a timed event. [Invention 107] The display is Bistability display that permanently displays the elapsed time of the exerciser at the end of the timed event The personal device of the present invention 101, further comprising. [Invention 108] Wristbands adapted to fit around the runner's wrists; and Operable-mounted display on the wristband to display indicators in response to runners crossing the race finish line Personal equipment worn by runners during the race, including. [Invention 109] The display is Bistable display that permanently displays the runner's elapsed race time in response to the runner crossing the race finish line The personal device of the present invention 108, further comprising. [Invention 110] The personal device of the invention 108, wherein the display shows the split time of the runner during the race. [Invention 111] The personal device of the invention 110, in which the display further shows the runner's target split time during the race. [Invention 112] The personal device of the invention 111, wherein the display further shows a comparison between the runner's split time during the race and the target split time. [Invention 113] The stage of receiving the signal corresponding to the timed event by the transceiver worn by the exerciser during the timed event; A display coupled to the transceiver to show indicators of the athletic performance during a timed event; and A display coupled to the transceiver to show a comparison of the athletic performance and goal performance during a timed event. How to include. [Invention 114] The stage of showing the pace of the exerciser by the display connected to the transceiver The method of the present invention 113, further comprising. [Invention 115] A permanent display of athletic performance indicators at the end of a timed event with a display coupled to the transceiver The method of the present invention 113, further comprising. [Invention 116] The stage where the display coupled to the transceiver permanently displays the elapsed time of the timed event at the end of the timed event. The method of the present invention 113, further comprising. [Invention 117] Stage of transmitting indicators of exerciser performance during a timed event The method of the present invention 113, further comprising. [Invention 118] The stage of giving a motivational message to an exerciser The method of the present invention 113, further comprising.

0010<figref num="1">An exerciser wearing the personal exercise device of the present invention in an environment of one example is shown.</figref><figref num="2">It is a schematic block diagram of the chip system used in the personal exercise apparatus of this invention.</figref><figref num="3">It is a schematic diagram of the race course and the timekeeping system used in this invention.</figref><figref num="4">It is a front perspective view of the personal exercise device shown in FIG.</figref><figref num="5">It is a front perspective view of an alternative aspect of the personal exercise device of the present invention.</figref>

0011Detailed explanation Although the present invention can be embodied in many different forms, the present disclosure should be considered as an illustration of the principles of the present invention, and the present disclosure is intended to limit a wide range of aspects of the invention to exemplary embodiments. Based on the understanding that is not intended, preferred embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and are described in detail herein.

0012The personal exercise device is shown in FIG. 1 and is shown with reference number 10 as a whole. In one exemplary embodiment, described in more detail below, the personal exercise device 10 is in the form of a bracelet 10 worn by an exerciser during a running event such as a marathon or other timed event. The personal exercise device 10 is used in the timekeeping system 12, which is often incorporated into timed events. After describing the timekeeping system 12 as a whole, the personal exercise device 10 and its enhanced functional capabilities will be described in more detail.

0013Generally, a timekeeping system includes a plurality of mats 14 and controllers 16. FIG. 1 shows a side view of the mat 14, and FIG. 3 shows a schematic plan view of a plurality of mats 14. Generally, the mat 14 is a flat member (schematically shown) having an antenna 18 embedded in the mat 14. In certain exemplary embodiments, multiple antennas 18 can be embedded in the mat 14. The mat 14 is sized to easily accommodate the number of runners expected to attend the event. The controller 16 is operably connected to the mat 14 and has a reader 20, as well as known related operable components such as a power supply, a display, and other signals. It is understood that the controller 16 may include a plurality of controllers 16, the controller 16 is associated with each mat 14, and the controller 16 contains a central position for collecting and managing timekeeping data.

0014As more schematically shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of mats 14 are arranged along the race course 22. For example, the mat 14 is placed at the race start 24 and the finish line 26. In addition, a plurality of mats 14 are placed in the middle position along the race course 22. For example, at a marathon event, Matt 14 can be positioned as each mile marker in the race. As described in more detail below, the personal exercise device 10 interacts with the timekeeping system 12 during the event. It is understood that other devices such as chips in the form of transponders typically worn on the exerciser's shoes are available to the exerciser. However, these types of chips have limited interaction capacity.

0015As shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 4, and 5, the personal exercise device 10 generally includes a mounting member 32 and a chip system 34 mounted therein. Generally, the chip system 34 is in the form of a mini data and signal receiver / transmission device 34.

0016In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the mounting member 32 takes the form of a band 36 adapted to be worn around the wrist of the runner. The band 36 can be made from elastic elastic material in the form of an integral ring, and the band 38 can be easily stretched on the hand and fit the wrist in a generally comfortable manner. .. In alternative embodiments, the mounting member 32 may include different types of mounting structures, such as buckles, snaps, hooks, and loop fasteners or other types of fasteners, if desired. The mounting member 32 may include a break in the structure, which allows the member 32 to fit over the wrist. The mounting member 32 may also include other desirable indicators on it, as well as a variety of different colors. The mounting member 32 further has a structure and dimensions for accommodating and supporting the chip system 34.

0017As further shown in FIG. 2, the chip system 34 is capable of receiving and transmitting signals and data and generally includes a transponder 38, a microprocessor 40, and a display 42. It is understood that the components of the chip system are operably connected to provide the functions and interactions described herein.

0018In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the transponder 38 is an active or passive RFID chip or tag 38. The RFID tag 38 can receive an initial signal such as a magnetic signal from the mat 14 and transmit a response in response to the initial signal. The microprocessor 40 can take many different forms and is generally a unit that processes or controls the steps, actions, and commands associated with the interaction of device 10 with the timekeeping system 12. Specifically, the microprocessor 40 includes a simple chronograph 44 for accurate recording of time. The specific functionality associated with the microprocessor 40 will be described in more detail below when discussing the operation of device 10 used in the timekeeping system 12.

0019The microprocessor 40 also includes a memory 46. The memory 46 can be a small capacity flash memory such as EEPROM and a size of about 1k, but the size of the memory can be different. The microprocessor 40 further includes a power source 48 such as a battery 48. The battery 48 can take various forms, and in one exemplary embodiment, the battery 48 may be similar to a paper battery or a battery used in hearing aid applications. Finally, the display 42 can be a simple display such as a flexible plastic LED or LCD. The display 42 can be flexible to adhere to the wrist contour. The display 42 is mounted at a position where the runner can easily view the display 42. Further, the chip system 34 may include a user input module 45 that allows the exerciser to input information as desired. As described in more detail below, the chip system 34 may also have a communication element 49 for wireless communication. It is understood that the various components of the chip system 34 can be contained within a small housing supported by the mounting member 32. It is further understood that the chip system 34 may be capable of wireless transmission and full wireless communication with other types of devices, and may optionally be provided with a data transmission port.

0020Here, the operation of the personal exercise device 10 will be described by taking a marathon event as an example. As explained above, the mat 14 is positioned along the designated race course 22 (Fig. 3). The mat 14 is placed at the start 24 of course 22 and at the end of the course defining the finish line 26. In addition, a plurality of other mats 14 are positioned at intermediate positions along the race course 22, such as each mile marker, such as mile markers 1 to 26. It is understood that a mat 14 equipped with a suitable antenna or the like generates a magnetic field F (Fig. 1) from the mat 14.

0021Runners participating in marathon events wear device 10 on their wrists, which can be thought of as simply a bracelet. When the runner starts the race, the mat 14 on the start line 24 triggers the RFID tag 38 through the generated magnetic field F, which in turn activates the chronograph 44 of the microprocessor 40. In addition, the elapsed race time is displayed on the display 42. Each subsequent mat 14 along the race course will also trigger RFID tag 38 and show the mile split time on display 42. The chip system 34 is designed to display the split time on the display 42 for a few seconds and then switch the display 42 to continue displaying the elapsed race time. The device 10 may also have a vibration signal, an audible signal, or other type of signal for instructing the runner to view the display 42 and see the split time. It is further understood that when RFID tag 38 is triggered with a mile marker, the split time is also stored in memory 46. At finish 26, the finish line mat 14 triggers RFID tag 38 to record and display the final race time and stop the chronograph 44. In a typical configuration, the runner uses a wristwatch and presses the lap / split button on the watch upon reaching each mile maker along the race track. The personal exercise device 10 can be thought of as a simple runner chronograph in which the RFID prompt with a mile marker and the interaction between the device 10 and the timekeeping system 12 replace the lap / split button. The split time and finish time can then be personally auto-recorded by each runner, eliminating the need for manual steps performed by the runner. In addition, this information is immediately displayed to the runner by the controller 16 of the timekeeping system 12 managed by the race organizer, rather than simply being stored. Until now, run

0022The personal exercise device 10 may also have enhanced timekeeping capability. For example, the runner can design a race plan with the desired target split time. Before the race, the runner uploads the target split time and stores the time in the memory 46 of the device 10. Uploads can be made from various locations, such as personal computers, kiosks that may be affiliated with race organizers, or other entities of interest, as well as either data port connections or wireless transmissions. Can be done through. For a particular marathon course, the kiosk may calculate the corrected mile split time, if necessary, and place that time on device 10 in memory 46. During the race, at each mile marker, the display 42 shows the actual split time as described above and the target split time pre-entered in device 10 for comparison by the runners. The microprocessor 40 may have additional communication capabilities to instruct the runner whether the runner is keeping, above, or below a preset pace.

0023In another exemplary embodiment, the personal exercise device 10 can take a more simplified form in terms of functionality and can simply display the finish time of the race event. Therefore, the personal exercise device 10 is activated as the runner crosses the start line, and the chronograph 44 manages the time as the runner advances along the course 22. When the finish line 26 is crossed, the final time is displayed on the display 34 shown in FIG. 5, for example. In this aspect, the display 42 is preferably a bistable display 42A in which the finish time is permanently displayed on the display 42. Since the display 42 is a bistable display, no power is required for the display 42 to continuously display the finish time. Therefore, the personal exercise device 10 can be used as a souvenir or souvenir for a race event placed on a shelf or cloak.

0024As discussed, the personal exercise device 10 may have wireless transmission capability. The device 10 may transmit the runner's timekeeping information to another computer, which computer may transmit the information to another location, such as a website with additional functional capabilities. For example, a website may display additional race times for comparison, or race times for a particular group of runners. The website may be a website affiliated with the race organizer or a separate website associated with the runner. It is also understood that in another exemplary aspect of the invention, device 10 may not include display 42. In this configuration, race data, including split times, can be downloaded to another computer, for example in a kiosk, for further transmission, for example to a website.

0025It is understood that the personal exercise device 10 is programmed with its own RFID serial number. This unique number can be associated with an individual's name and personal information. Therefore, with proper cooperation with the race organizer, the personal exercise device 10 may be used, for example, to enter a race event at a kiosk or other central position. Registration can be streamlined and more efficient, as all relevant information is contained in device 10. To further enhance the ability to register, the ability to spend, for example using credit cards or other information, may also be incorporated into device 10.

0026It is understood that wearing the personal exercise device 10 on the wrist is an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. If desired, the device 10 can also be worn in other positions, such as on arms, clothing, eyeglasses with a display, and shoes. The device 10 may also include audio components that allow the exerciser to hear time information through earphones.

0027Personal exercise device 10 and its functionality is a full-featured wristwatch, telephone, digital music player, heart rate monitor, electronic device worn on or in the sole, or other electronic device with the functionality of a traditional wristwatch. It is also understood that it may be incorporated into the device. As schematically shown in FIG. 1, device 10 may have enhanced communication capabilities for communicating with such other electronic devices. The functionality of the present invention with respect to the configuration of digital music players, Apple, Cupertino, Calif. It can be specifically incorporated into IPOD® brand digital music players available from Inc. In such a configuration, there may be ongoing audio communication to the runner, including specific timekeeping-related communications based on various checkpoints or mile markers reached during the race event. Communication to device 10 may take various forms, including habitual coaching or motivational messages. RFID triggers may also include global positioning features that include pre-populating location information about the race course. Second, GPS signals may trigger device 10 to give the runner useful information.

0028Although specific examples of marathon events have been described herein, it is understood that the personal exercise device 10 may be used in other timed events. For example, bikers and swimmers, as well as athletes participating in triathlons, may also use the device.

0029The personal exercise device 10 of the present invention has enhanced functionality over prior art systems. The device 10 can be designed to be reused in multiple race events. The memory is erasable and the chronograph can be reset for another race. Also, the memory may be sized to hold race data for multiple events. Alternatively, a device 10 such as the above embodiment having a bistable display can be designed for one-time use. Further, the components of the device 10 can be selected as having the above functionality but for the one-time use of the device 10 and being considered disposable. The use of device 10 of the present invention is preferred over traditional transponders worn on shoes. This is because the device 10 provides immediate access for further use and overview by the runner on the display as well as the timekeeping data generated using the timekeeping system 12.

0030Finally, the personal exercise device 10 can be used to display the message at a position unrelated to the timekeeping event. For example, a retail store may include a mat 14 or other suitable signal generator in its location. Individuals who wear the device 10 and enter a position to receive a reward, such as a product or other reward, may be randomly selected. A message indicating "winner" may be displayed on the display 42. The device 10 may be used in games such as the Scavenger Hunt to record that an individual is near a designated marker.

0031Although specific embodiments have been exemplified and described, many modifications are conceivable without significant deviation from the spirit of the present invention, and the scope of protection is limited only by the scope of the appended claims. To.