AU2021101554A4 - Sauna system with communication, networking, and global infrastructure - Google Patents

Abstract

A sauna having a video display device, a loud speaker device, lighting elements, an aromatherapy device, and a user interface device, and includes control circuitry which links the sauna to a remote server. The remote server provides media files for display to a user and collects and stores user profile and usage information. Multiple saunas are be linked into a network or global infrastructure so that a user's profile and usage information follow the user to any sauna connected to the network. Collected data can be used by users to track individual usage and performance metrices, and by service providers to analyze usage data and information for operational and marketing purposes. 1/7 126 114 130J 1100 124 11 FIG. 1.

Description

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FIG. 1.

SAUNA SYSTEM WITH COMMUNICATION, NETWORKING, AND GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a divisional application of PCT Application No.

PCT/US2019/047886 filed on 23 August 2019, the entire contents of which are

hereby incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Saunas are popular for providing heath therapy to users, with dry heat

home saunas for one or more users becoming increasingly common as home

accessories. Traditional saunas are also popular, and spa facilities offering

access to various types of saunas allow users to select the type of sauna used at

any given session.

[0003] Most saunas are stand alone and locally controlled, with each

subsequent user of a sauna required to set-up and select the sauna features they

desire each time they use the sauna. Even within a facility, moving to a different

sauna device typically requires adjusting settings from what a prior user had

selected. Coupled with that, some find the sauna experience repetitive, with little

variation in the experience each time the sauna is used. While some saunas

provide television or music playback features, such traditional programming often

actually detracts from the sauna experience.

[0004] Thus, it can be seen that there remains a need in the art for saunas

that are easier to use and cater to the user's desire for a seamless sauna

experience.

SUMMARY

[0005] Exemplary embodiments are defined by the claims below, not this

summary. A high-level overview of various aspects thereof is provided here to

introduce a selection of concepts that are further described in the detailed

description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key features

or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used in

isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. In brief, this

disclosure describes methods and systems for sauna systems having

communication capability and support for networked global infrastructure allowing

intercommunication between saunas, studios, salons, and other facilities as well

as integration with users' smart devices and with providers' point of sale,

operation, and marketing systems.

[0006] A sauna having a video display device, a loudspeaker device,

lighting elements, an aromatherapy device, and a user interface device, includes

communication and control circuitry which links the sauna to a remote server.

The remote server provides media files for display or presentation to a user and

collects and stores user profile, preference, and usage information. Multiple

saunas are linked into a network or global infrastructure so that a user's profile,

preferences, and usage information follow the user to any sauna connected to

the network. Thus, a user entering a sauna at a facility other than their home or usual facility can seamlessly access and experience material just as if he or she were at their home facility. Similarly, the separate facilities can collect and centrally record preference and usage data of the user to track individual usage and performance metrices, and service providers can analyze and use the users' data and for operational and marketing purposes.

[0007] In one embodiment a sauna, such a far infrared sauna system, is

equipped or provided with a video display device, a speaker device, lighting

elements, an aromatherapy device, and a user interface device, all of which are

in communication with control circuity that allows local control of the sauna's

heating and lighting by a user, and further provides communication with remote

systems, such as a central system within a salon or spa facility, and/or with a

central system at a geographically disparate location, such as a headquarters or

data center for a spa chain. In further embodiments, the control circuitry

interfaces with users' smart devices to allow user control of sauna parameters

from their devices, and with health monitoring devices, such as heart rate, step,

and other devices to allow control of the sauna based on those monitored

parameters and to allow recording fitness parameters to the user's profile.

[0008] In one embodiment, a user communicates with the sauna by

providing an identification name, number, or code associated with the user upon

beginning use of the sauna. The code may be embedded on or in an

identification card which may be scanned by the user to activate the sauna, or

the code may be provided via a smart device such as a smartphone using RFID

communication with the control circuitry. In other embodiments, the code or identification may be entered via the user interface. Once identified, the user may access features available from a central system, such as video or audio content, and data associated with the user's activity can be saved by the system.

In some embodiments, such as at a spa facility, the identification of the user may

be performed by the operator of the facility in conjunction with allowing access to

the facility, with the operator assigning a particular sauna to a user, with the

individual sauna then tied in to the central system so that the assigned user can

access content and their activity can be tracked.

[0009] In one aspect, the system allows a user to operate a sauna and

control the heating and lighting to desired levels. In another aspect, a user may

access a library of prerecorded material which provides a virtual reality type of

experience to the user by providing content to the heating, video, audio, lighting,

and aromatherapy devices in the sauna, with the content controlling the

experience of the user in the sauna. In another aspect, the system allows a user

to live-stream content from other users, such as guided meditation or stretching

exercises.

[0010] In a further aspect, the system logs users' activities and builds a

user profile, allowing the presentation of user favorite settings or other content

based on past usage by that user. The user profile preferably follows the user

regardless of the particular facility used, so that a user member of a spa chain

may visit a facility in another city and have virtually identical access to his or her

desired content and settings.

[0011] In a further aspect, the system logs user data to allow providers,

spa facilities, and spa chains to monitor usage patterns, demand, favorite

content, and various other usage data in order to improve customer service and

adjust to customer needs. Preferably, the sauna system in integrated into the

provider's point of sale (POS) and/or access system so that a user can

seamlessly access facilities, access content, and even pay for premium services

across the system.

[0012] In another aspect, the system allows providers, spa facilities, and

spa chains to increase revenues by providing advertising targeted to particular

users or groups of users based upon usage data. Providers may also offer

premium audio, video, or virtual reality content to users, with the user able to

select content from the user interface in the sauna.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Illustrative embodiments are described in detail below with reference to

the attached drawing figures, and wherein:

[0014] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the exterior of a sauna having

communication and networking capability in accordance with an exemplary

embodiment of the present invention;

[0015] FIG. 2 is a cut-away front view of the sauna of FIG. 1 showing the

interior of the sauna;

[0016] FIG. 3 is a cut-away rear view of the sauna of FIG. 1, showing the

interior of the sauna;

[0017] FIG. 4 is functional block diagram of the sauna of FIG. 1;

[0018] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of a group of saunas networked

together in a single facility;

[0019] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a group of geographically

dispersed facilities networked together;

[0020] FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method of identifying a user

and associating user information with a user profile;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The subject matter of select exemplary embodiments is described with

specificity herein to meet statutory requirements. But the description itself is not

intended to necessarily limit the scope of claims. Rather, the claimed subject

matter might be embodied in other ways to include different components, steps,

or combinations thereof similar to the ones described in this document, in

conjunction with other present or future technologies. Terms should not be

interpreted as implying any particular order among or between various steps

herein disclosed unless and except when the order of individual steps is explicitly

described. The terms "about" or "approximately" as used herein denote

deviations that are insignificant to the function.

[0022] Referring to FIG. 1, a sauna with communication and networking

capability in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention

is depicted generally by the numeral 100. Sauna 100 includes a base panel

112, upright side panels 110 extending upwardly from base panel 112, a top

panel 114 surmounting the side panels 110 so as to define a sauna enclosure.

The sauna illustrated in FIG. 1 also includes a rear panel 130 and a front panel

120 having a door 123 disposed therein. It will be appreciated by those skilled in

the art that the door 123 may be made of any number of various materials such

as, for example, glass, wood, or particle board. The front panel 120 has a

window 124 disposed between the door 123 and one of the side panels 110. It

will be further appreciated by those skilled in the art that the panels and other

components of a sauna 100 could be built using wood, metal, ceramics, or any

other material available.

[0023] An external control panel 126 for user control of various sauna features

such as, for example, heating, lighting, or entertainment devices is attached on

the front panel 120 wall near the door 123. In other embodiments, a sauna may

not have an external control panel 126, but only an internal control panel, as

discussed below. In further embodiments, a sauna may be provided with an

external control panel that is not attached to the sauna, but rather is at a remote

location such as, for example, a desk or control station in a health club. All of

these arrangements, and all combinations thereof, are within the scope of the

present invention.

[0024] Although the illustrated sauna has a generally rectangular

configuration, other configurations are contemplated by the present invention,

and various saunas may be used in conjunction with the present invention. For

example, a Signature @ sauna or a Solo @ sauna configured for use with a single

user, available from Sunlighten Saunas of Overland Park, Kansas are well-suited

for use with the present invention.

[0025] Turning now to FIG. 2, a cut-away front view of a sauna such as the

sauna 100 illustrated in FIG. 1 is shown. As illustrated, in one exemplary

embodiment, the sauna 100 may include one or more seating structures 136,

such as benches, chairs, or other seating structures. The seating structures 136

may be disposed adjacent to any of the various internal walls of the sauna such

as for example, the side walls 110 or the back wall 130. In various embodiments,

such as the one depicted in FIG. 2, the sauna may include open spaces 138

disposed underneath the seating structures 136 and adjacent the interior walls

110 or 130. The open spaces 138 may be left open, used for storage, used to

house other sauna feature devices, or may be used for any other purpose and in

any other manner known in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the sauna 100

is also provided with backrests 134 disposed on top of the seating structures 136

for supporting a user in an upright, seated position.

[0026] Additionally, the sauna 100 is equipped with heat sources

140,142,144,146, which are operable to heat the enclosure. The heat sources

140,142,144,146 are preferably configured to emit infrared radiation at varying

wavelengths within the sauna so as to provide both heating and desirable IR

treatment. In some embodiments, the heat sources may be adjustable to emit

infrared radiation at any wavelength within the infrared wavelength spectrum

such as, for example, near infrared, mid infrared, or far infrared. Other

conventional heat sources and elements may likewise be used in accordance

with the present invention.

[0027] With continued reference to FIG. 2, the heat sources 140,142,144,146

may be configured such that individual heat sources 140,142,144,146 or

combinations of heat sources 140,142,144,146 may be selected to output

wavelengths of radiation that are different than wavelengths of radiation emitted

by other heat sources 140,142,144,146. Such a configuration may be optimized

to achieve a zone-heating effect, where one or more heat sources

140,142,144,146 is situated in a zone that corresponds to a particular region on a

user's body, thus providing a mechanism for concentrating different levels of heat

to different parts of the user's body. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more

heat sources corresponding to one or more zones may be turned off such that no

heat is emitted in those zones.

[0028] Turning now to FIG. 3, a forward-facing cut-away view of the interior of

sauna 100 is illustrated. As indicated previously, sauna 100 may include an

internal control panel 128 attached, for example, to an interior side of front panel

120. The interior control panel 128 may include any number of various control

panels known in the art, such as, for example, configurations that include a

number of buttons, dials, switches, and/or displays disposed thereon. In the

embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3, the control panel 128 preferably include a

display device such as, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, a

plasma display screen, or any other type of display screen appropriate for

displaying various information associated with a user's sauna experience, and an

audio loudspeaker for playback of audio material. In one embodiment, control

panel 128 may comprise a touch-screen display device operable to display output as well as to receive user input, where a user may interact with control panel 128 by touching the screen with a finger, stylus, or other object. In still further embodiments, control panel 128 may be a portable device such as, for example, a remote control device or module. In other embodiments, control panel 128 may be adapted to be worn by a user, such as, for example, by affixing straps to a part of the body.

[0029] Control panel 128 may be integrated with, or coupled to, any of the

various controllable features associated with sauna 100. For example, in an

embodiment, control panel 128 is coupled to heat sources 140,142,144,146. In

other embodiments, control panel 128 may be coupled to, and thus enable

control of, other features such as adjustable lighting, timing devices, and the like.

[0030] In a preferred embodiment as will be described in conjunction with FIG.

4, control panel 128 preferably includes control circuitry operable to communicate

with the control panel, heat sources, and other sauna features, and further

includes the capability to communicate over a network to a remote server to

received media files and to transmit user information as will be described in more

detail below.

[0031] Also illustrated in FIG. 3, a monitoring device 152 in communication

with the control circuitry is configured to collect health data associated with a user

of sauna 100. Monitoring device 152 preferably includes communication circuitry

operable to communicate with user wearable devices, such as pace, step, pulse,

blood pressure, and other health sensors known in the art.

[0032] Other sauna features may equally be included within the scope of the

present invention. For example, acoustic resonance therapy devices may be

included in the sauna and controlled by control circuitry in a manner similar to

that described for other features or elements. Or voice control devices may be

integrated into communication with the control circuitry so that a user may

accomplish control in conjunction with the user control panel.

[0033] As discussed in more detail below, saunas 100 may be individual,

personally owned devices such as in a user's home, or may be located in a spa

facility having multiple identical saunas or multiple saunas having different

characteristics. Regardless of the location of the sauna, the integration of global

infrastructure as described herein allows the sauna experience to be controlled

and tailored by each user, allows aggregation and correlation of user data by spa

facilities, and provides seamless integration of user preference across a global

network of spa facilities and saunas.

[0034] Turning to FIG. 4, a functional block diagram of a sauna in accordance

with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention is depicted generally by

the numeral 200. Sauna 200 includes a heating source 202 for providing heat to

a user of the sauna, a video display device 204 for presenting video material to a

user, an audio loudspeaker device 206 for broadcasting audio material to a user,

a lighting element 208 for providing light within the sauna, and an aromatherapy

device for regulating aroma within the sauna.

[0035] It should be understood that while single devices are depicted, saunas

within the scope of the present invention may include a plurality of each device, may exclude some devices, or may be configured in other arrangements than those shown. For example, a particular sauna may include multiple heating sources, multiple lighting elements, and no aromatherapy device. One of skill in the art will understand that such variations are contemplated by the present invention. It should be further understood that the devices of the sauna 200 depicted in FIG. 4 correlate generally with the devices depicted and described with respect to the sauna of FIGS. 1 through 3, with additional features as will now be described.

[0036] Looking still to FIG. 4, sauna 200 includes a user control panel 212 in

communication with each of the heating source 202, video display device 204,

audio loudspeaker 206, lighting element 208, and aromatherapy device 210.

User control panel 212 is preferably mounted on or in the sauna and allows a

user to individually control elements within the sauna, such as activating heating

sources, controlling the lighting elements, and the like.

[0037] User control panel 212 may include any number of various control

panels known in the art, such as, for example, configurations that include a

number of buttons, dials, switches, and/or displays disposed thereon. In an

exemplary embodiment, the user control panel 212 incorporates the display

device such as, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen, a plasma

display screen, or any other type of display screen appropriate for displaying

various information associated with a user's sauna experience, and the audio

loudspeaker for playback of audio material. In one embodiment, user control

panel 212 may comprise a touch-screen display device operable to display output as well as to receive user input, where a user may interact with user control panel 212 by touching the screen with a finger, stylus, or other object. In still further embodiments, control panel 212 may be a portable device such as, for example, a remote control device or module. In use, a user interacts with user control panel 212 to locally control the features of the sauna 200. For example, a user may locally adjust the heating, lighting, video display, audio, and aromatherapy to desired levels using the user control panel 212.

[0038] As further shown in FIG. 4, sauna 200 further includes control circuitry

214 in communication with the user control panel 212, and via that control panel,

in communication with each of the heating source 202, video display device 204,

audio loudspeaker 206, lighting element 208, and aromatherapy device 210.

Thus, the control circuitry 214 can control each of the devices in a manner similar

to the user control panel, and/or in conjunction with the user control panel 212.

[0039] In a preferred embodiment, control circuitry 214 includes

communication circuitry allowing communication between the control circuitry and

one or more user devices 215, for example via wired or wireless connection. The

communication circuitry preferably includes wireless communication via

Bluetooth, WiFi, or other protocol and/or wired communication via USB or other

protocol. Control circuitry 214 preferably further comprises bridge circuity to

allow connection between a plurality of system networks, as discussed in more

detail below, or between control panel 212 and a mobile device or computer.

[0040] User devices 215 may include smart devices such as smart phones,

tablets, and computers, or home control devices such as Google@ Home,

Amazon@ Alexa, or other such devices. Thus, in addition to the user control

panel 212, a user may interact with and control the sauna 200 using those

devices either alone or in combination. In alternative embodiments, a sauna may

exclude the control panel 212 and allow for control exclusively via user devices

215.

[0041] Sauna 200 may further include a monitoring device in communication

with the control circuitry 214 capable of receiving information from user-worn

health devices so that user's step, pulse, and other data may be transmitted to

the control circuitry for eventual recording and storage in association with a

user's profile. Health devices may include heart rate monitors, biofeedback

monitors, blood pressure monitors, oxygen level monitors, weight monitors,

respiration monitors, and other monitors and/or sensors for measuring physical

and/or biological parameters of a user. Those user parameters are preferably

recorded in a user's profile. In addition, any of those parameters, or

combinations of those parameters, can be used by the control circuitry 214 to

control parameters of the sauna itself. In one embodiment, a system as

described herein allows dynamic content to control spa parameters, for example

regulating heat intensity based on specific biometric parameters of a user. In

further embodiments, the system may provide an integrated music, heat, light,

and aroma environment based on predetermined or dynamic content. Mood

detection and other biofeedback parameters may further direct specific spa

parameters such as chromotherapy individualized for each user.

[0042] In one embodiment, control circuitry 214 provides access and

connection ports, plugs, or the like for the connection of user accessory devices,

such as wands, and custom heaters allowing additional accessories to be added

to a sauna and/or used in conjunction with the sauna and network

communication capabilities as desired by a user.

[0043] Control circuitry 214 includes communication capability to allow

interchange of information with a network 218 such that information from outside

the sauna 200 may be supplied by a remote server 220 connected to the network

(as will be described in more detail below) to operate and control the sauna 200,

and information from inside the sauna 200 may be transmitted to the remote

server. Thus, for example, a media file from a remote server 220 may be

transmitted to the sauna 200 to allow control of the sauna in a predetermined

manner, and information with respect to user selections and preferences made

using the control panel 212 may be transmitted to the remote server for storage.

Network 218 may be a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN),

wired or wireless, or any combination thereof employing communications

protocols as known in the art. The network 218 preferably includes a bridge

connection or circuitry allowing interconnection of multiple networks to form a

larger virtual network of interconnected facilities, saunas, and interconnecting

networks. The bridge connection or circuitry may further allow connection

between the control panel 212 and a mobile device or computer.

[0044] The network preferably includes communication circuitry to allow user

devices 219, such as user laptop computers, tablets, and the like, to interconnect and communicate with the remote server 220 and/or the sauna 200 via wired or wireless connections. Thus, a user may remotely access his or her profile and preferences, access usage and performance data, and otherwise manage their data from any location having access to the network, such as over the Internet.

[0045] Access to remote server 220 by user devices 219 is preferably

facilitated through a web site, web pages, or a dedicated application running on

the user device.

[0046] It should be understood that the arrangement of elements and features

as depicted in FIG. 4 is exemplary and not limiting, and that other configurations

are anticipated by the present invention. For example, in the case of a personal

sauna closely enclosing a user's body, a video display device, lighting elements,

and audio loudspeaker may be located outside of the physical sauna enclosure,

such as in a room where the sauna is located. And, the various components of

sauna 200 may be combined or separated in different exemplary embodiments.

For example, the video display device 204 may be combined with the audio

loudspeaker 206, or the control circuitry 214 may be incorporated within the user

control panel 212. In further embodiments the user control panel 212 may be

located remotely from the sauna 200, such as at the front desk of a spa facility.

These configurations and others will operate in a substantially similar manner

and fall within the purview of the present invention. In other configurations, the

user control panel allows communication to the front desk by the user. In further

configurations the sauna or facility may include one or more large screen displays allowing a user to cast or mirror content to the larger screen as desired from their own user device or from the control panel.

[0047] Remote server 220 may be located in near or far proximity to the

sauna 200, the term "remote" designating that the server is not located within the

sauna. Remote server 220 may be comprised of one or more servers, cloud

servers, or combinations thereof, in network communication with each other.

Preferably, remote server 220 includes data storage capabilities, with user

profiles, user content, and user information stored and accessible by users of the

of the sauna and by providers of the sauna services. Most preferably, remote

server 220 includes media server capabilities capable of streaming and/or

distributing video, audio, and control content to sauna 200 via the network 218

connection. Preferably, a library of video and/or other media files is maintained

on the remote server 220 to allow user selection of desired media and distribution

or digital content sharing of that media over the network 218, or interconnected

networks, to the user.

[0048] As will now be described, multiple saunas 200 may be grouped in

communication with each other and with one or more remote servers to form a

global infrastructure of interconnected saunas and facilities.

[0049] Looking to FIG. 5, a facility 250 comprising a plurality of saunas 200 as

previously described are connected to a network interface 254, for example, a

local area network located at a front desk 252 of a spa facility. The network

interface 254 is in further communication with a global network, such as the

Internet, which is in communication with a remote server 256. Similarly, turning to FIG. 6, a plurality of facilities 250 may be grouped to form an infrastructure 260 of interconnected individual saunas via a network interface 262 in further communication with a global network 264 and a remote server 266.

[0050] It should be understood that the configuration of the saunas 200, front

desk 252, facilities 250, network interfaces, and remote servers may vary

according to the needs of different users. For example, a single facility 250 may

include numerous individual saunas 200 with a remote server present at the

facility for providing content to the saunas, without any external network

connection. Or, the front desk may include a remote server in addition to a

remote server available over the global network interface. In addition, a single

user may have an individual sauna not located in a facility that interconnects via

a global network interface to a remote server of the networks depicted. These

and various other configurations of the global infrastructure network are

encompassed by the present invention.

[0051] Remote server 256, and any of the remote servers, preferably host

media files comprising audio, video, and control information for playback through

the control circuitry of the individual saunas 200. Thus, a user of one of the

saunas 200 may, through the local user control panel as previously described,

sign-in to the remote server system using a unique identification code, such as a

username, password, user ID, RFID card, or other access method as is known in

the art. Once connected to the remote server, the user may access media file

content for playback. Media files or content may be tied to a user's membership

or subscription, may be free for use, or may be purchased by a user.

Combinations of media are preferably available, with some content free and

some premium content available for purchase.

[0052] With the global infrastructure system of interconnected saunas set

forth, various exemplary methods of using the system will now be described.

[0053] Looking to FIG. 7, a user accessing the system signs in at block 300 by

entering a user identification, preferably using the user control panel of an

individual sauna that is interconnected to a remote server as previously

described. User sign-in may be accomplished by any method known in the art,

such as user ID and password, user name, identification number, access card,

RFID, smartphone application, and the like.

[0054] At some facilities, the user ID may be entered at the front desk, and/or

entered in conjunction with access to the facility. At block 302 the entered ID is

transmitted to the remote server for verification. If the entered ID matches a

known user, that user's profile is accessed, including user information previously

entered, along with content available to the user. The user's profile may include

information that automatically configure the sauna to the user's desired settings

so that the user can immediately begin using the sauna. Preferably, the remote

server also loads and provides content to the user so that the user may select

various programming (as will be described in more detail below), such as audio

and video material, as well as control parameters which control or alter the

settings of the sauna in conjunction with the programming material.

[0055] Most preferably, at block 308 user selections made during the use of

the sauna are transmitted back to the remote server for storage in conjunction with the user's profile, and at block 310 the user information is stored. The tracked and stored activity is preferably aggregated with prior user activity so that a user may access and track his or her own prior activity. In additional, user selections and activity may be used by spa and sauna providers to improve services to their customers. For example, popular content may be suggested to other users, or unpopular content may be removed from the system.

[0056] Upon accessing a remote server using the system, a user may select

content for playback or access. Content may live stream program material, such

as a real-time exercise program offered by an instructor or may be recorded

archives of such programs. It should be understood that multiple users of the

system may live stream or access the same content; thus, a real-time exercise

video may be simultaneously viewed by multiple users of multiple saunas in

geographically dispersed locations. Most preferably, users may interact with

either live stream or recorded content by providing feedback or ratings to be

associated with the content for access by the community of users of the system.

Content and user information may also be integrated into predefined programs,

such as wellness programs offered by insurance companies. For example, with

user activity satisfying requirements for the wellness program and providing that

information to the program over the network.

[0057] Media playback preferably may provide audio and video material to a

user, as well as control of heating and lighting elements within the sauna, as well

as other sauna features, such as aromatherapy and acoustic resonance devices.

Thus, a user may select thematic program material, such as a Buddhist Temple or Garden, with the audio, video, heating, and lighting all automatically coordinated by the media file to provide the thematic experience.

Choreographed control of audio, video, lighting, and heating, as well as other

sauna features, provides a near virtual reality experience for the user.

[0058] In other embodiments, user data from user-worn devices may be used

by the system to control sauna elements, such as adjusting the lighting elements

color and/or intensity in response to a user's heart rate or adjusting the heating

element intensity based on heart rate or other parameters.

[0059] In further embodiments, networking and data aggregation allows

providers to analyze collected data to implement marketing strategies directed to

customer preferences. For example, logos, advertising and co-branded

advertising may be directed to various users based on selected criteria, such as

performance level, frequency of usage, and the like. Or, providers may sell

developed programming to other providers for use with their network of users.

Users may further be offered premium programming through an online store

presented by the remote server to the user's sauna.

[0060] In one embodiment, the networking and data aggregation provides

ecommerce opportunities allowing a service provider, facility, or spa operator to

customize the information provided to users either individually or in groups. For

example, a provider may provide additional applications or customized

applications to enhance the user experience, may provide a help section to guide

a user's operation of the sauna, control panel, application, or web interface, or

may provide updates to existing applications. Applications may allow control of sauna chromotherapy, audio, and the distribution of dynamic content such as on demand and live video for various activities such as stretching, yoga, meditation and the like, as well as health advice and/or health channels or podcasts.

Dynamic content is preferably customizable for each user of the system, allowing

the user to engage with the system prior to receiving their own sauna, or prior to

or in conjunction with the use of commercial facilities.

[0061] Preferably, the system allows sending notifications to users either

individually or in groups, or to existing group or social networking services, such

as Facebook@. Notifications may be sent based on particular user usage or

target parameters or may be based on algorithmic analysis of user usage data.

Notifications may also comprise system status, such as notifications of failure of

a particular component, or of upcoming maintenance requirements. For

example, notifications may notify a user of lack of use of a sauna in a number of

days. Further notification can advise a user of the location and/or proximity of

saunas or facilities. Such notifications can likewise be directed to system service

providers or facilities.

[0062] In a further embodiment, the networked system may provide a user

loyalty system, providing points or reward to users based on usage, achieving

goals, or other targeted achievements. Likewise, providers may notify users of

special promotions or offers. In additional embodiments, the system allows users

to participate in competitions and games and allow comparison and ranking of

user achievements such as calories burned, sessions taken, goals achieved, and

the like, with a leaderboard display of rankings in the game or contest. Game results, ranking, and information can be shared on social networks, with badges and rewards points issued to users for various accomplishments such as watching digital content, using accessories such as a plug-in wand, achieving goals, etcetera. Rewards may be used at participating facilities and commercial affiliates. In addition, geocoordinates of a user device may be used to provide information to users of nearby facilities, spas, or affiliates, or of the nearest facility.

[0063] In one embodiment, a provider or facility can control and manage

individual user accounts and can manage individual saunas through the network

for usability and maintenance purposes. For example, a provider may update

control circuitry, control panel, applications, or other system software remotely

through the network. Or a provider may allow or block sauna functionality based

on a user's subscription level, or may lock out damaged or defective equipment

for servicing. Additionally, a provider may remotely access a sauna to diagnose

and troubleshoot any issues, with robust scans configured to identify problems,

and with a sauna operable to automatically notify a provider of a problem,

allowing proactive maintenance or replacement of parts without customer or user

action required.

[0064] Preferably, the system provides interface capability with existing

merchant and provider systems, such as point of sale systems, or applications

developed by various sauna manufacturers.

[0065] From the above, it can be seen that the sauna and system of the

present invention provide advantages not available in currently known saunas and systems. The networked capability allows a user to access and use a sauna virtually anywhere in the world and have access to the same features and programming that he or she may have at their home sauna, with further access to their prior activity and performance data. Thus, the user's experience between different physical locations is seamless. Similarly, providers of saunas and spa facilities can provide improved customer experience and improved customer service by following customer activities and providing features, services, and content based on actual user data.

[0066] Many different arrangements of the various components depicted, as

well as components not shown, are possible without departing from the scope of

the claims below. Embodiments of the technology have been described with the

intent to be illustrative rather than restrictive. Alternative embodiments will

become apparent to readers of this disclosure after and because of reading it.

Alternative means of implementing the aforementioned can be completed without

departing from the scope of the claims below. Identification of structures as

being configured to perform a particular function in this disclosure and in the

claims below is intended to be inclusive of structures and arrangements or

designs thereof that are within the scope of this disclosure and readily identifiable

by one of skill in the art and that can perform the particular function in a similar

way. Certain features and sub-combinations are of utility and may be employed

without reference to other features and sub-combinations and are contemplated

within the scope of the claims.

Claims (20)

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A sauna comprising:

an enclosure for accommodating a user;

at least one heat source disposed within the enclosure;

at least one media playback device disposed within the

enclosure;

a user control panel positioned on or within the enclosure;

and

control circuitry in communication with the at least one heat

source, the at least one media playback device, and the user

control panel, wherein the control circuity is operable to control the

at least one heat source and the at least one media playback

device and is further operable to communicate over a network to a

remote server and to receive content from the remote server for

playback on the at least one media playback device, and wherein

the control circuitry comprises bridge circuitry operable to facilitate

communication between a mobile device and the control circuity to

allow user control of the sauna using the mobile device;.

2. The sauna of claim 1, further comprising at least one lighting

element in communication with the control circuitry.

3. The sauna of claim 2, wherein the control circuitry is

operable to communicate with at least one user health device and to control the

at least one heat source, the at least one media playback device, the at least one

lighting element, and combinations thereof in response to information received

from the at least one user health device.

4. The sauna of claim 2, wherein the control circuitry is

operable to regulate operation of at least one of the at least one heat source, the

at least one media playback device, and the at least one lighting element in

response to user commands entered via the user control panel.

5. The sauna of claim 2, wherein the control circuitry is

operable to regulate operation of at least one of the at least one heat source, the

at least one media playback device, and the at least one lighting element in

response to one or more media files received from the remote server.

6. The sauna of claim 5, wherein the media file comprises

audio material, visual material, heat control signals, lighting control signals, and

combinations thereof.

7. The sauna of claim 6, wherein playback of the media file

correlates heating, lighting, audio material, visual material, and combinations

thereof within the sauna to provide a desired thematic presentation to the user.

8. The sauna of claim 6, wherein the media file comprises live

stream audio material and/or visual material.

9. The sauna of claim 1, wherein the media playback device

comprises a video display screen for displaying visual material to a user and a

loudspeaker for broadcasting audio material to a user.

10. The sauna of claim 1, wherein user selections entered via

the user control panel are transmitted to the remote server and stored and

associated with a user profile.

11. The sauna of claim 10, wherein advertising targeted to a

user based on user profile associated with that user is transmitted to the media

playback device for presentation to the user.

12. A spa system, comprising:

a plurality of saunas in accordance with claim 1; and

a central server in communication with the control circuitry of

at least one of the plurality of saunas, the central server operable to

distribute media files and information to the at least one of the

plurality of saunas for display of visual material, playback of audio

material, control of lighting elements, and control of heating

elements within one or more of said plurality of saunas.

13. The spa system of claim 12, wherein information distributed

to the at least one of the plurality of saunas is based on a user profile associated

with a user of the at least one of the plurality of saunas.

14. The spa system of claim 13, wherein the information

distributed to the at least one of the plurality of saunas is advertising targeted

based on the user profile.

15. The spa system of claim 12, wherein information associated

with a user of the at least one of the plurality of saunas is transmitted to the

central server for storage in association with a profile associated with the user.

16. The spa system of claim 12, wherein the plurality of saunas

are geographically dispersed and wherein the central server comprises a plurality

of geographically dispersed servers in communication over a network, and

wherein user profile information is shared between the plurality of servers such

that user information stored on any of the plurality of geographically dispersed

servers is available to an associated user at any one of the geographically

dispersed saunas.

17. The spa system of claim 16, wherein user information from

any of the plurality of any of the geographically dispersed saunas is

communicated to the plurality of servers.

18. The spa system of claim 12, wherein the central server is in

communication with a point of sale system and/or an access system of a spa

facility such that users' profiles are accessible through the point of sale and/or

access system for controlling at least one of the plurality of saunas for display of

visual material, playback of audio material, control of lighting elements, control of

heating elements, and combinations thereof.

19. The spa system of claim 12, wherein the central server

provides marketing data to spa service providers based on information

aggregated from usage data collected from the plurality of spas.

20. A spa system comprising:

a plurality of saunas, wherein each sauna comprises:

an enclosure for accommodating a user;

at least one heat source disposed within the

enclosure;

at least one media playback device disposed within

the enclosure;

a user control panel positioned on or within the

enclosure; and

control circuitry in communication with the at least one

heat source, the at least one media playback device,

and the user control panel, wherein the control circuity

is operable to control the at least one heat source and

the at least one media playback device and is further

operable to communicate over a network to a remote

server and to receive content from the remote server

for playback on the at least one media playback;

a central server in communication with the control circuitry of

at least one of the plurality of saunas, the central server operable to

distribute media files and information to the at least one of the plurality of saunas for display of visual material, playback of audio material, control of lighting elements, and control of heating elements within one or more of said plurality of saunas; and a point-of-sale system and/or an access system in communication with the central server such that users' profiles are accessible through the point of sale and/or access system for controlling at least one of the plurality of saunas for display of visual material, playback of audio material, control of lighting elements, control of heating elements, and combinations thereof.