JP6258859B2 - Consumer-usable test kit - Google Patents

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Professional athletes and amateur athletes alike try to gain a level of athletic ability. Unfortunately, however, the exercise routine chosen by the athlete may not allow each athlete to reach their full potential. Furthermore, it is even less likely that an experienced coach or non-trainer individual will reach its full potential. Thus, simply following standard exercise routines does not help an individual improve certain performance characteristics that may be important. For example, an individual who wants to play football on a professional sports team is fast enough to be considered a member of a team or league, but the individual's responsiveness or fitness In some cases, the response associated with is less than acceptable. If you follow an inappropriate exercise routine, you may not be able to improve your responsiveness.

  In addition, coaches and scouts need to quickly determine the performance characteristics of several individuals in a relatively short period of time. Coaches and scouts may obtain records or statistics of potential players, but in particular are most likely not to provide an accurate assessment of relevant characteristics such as speed, responsiveness, agility, and power. In addition, statistics can be counterfeited or inaccurate. Even when trying to accurately measure capability characteristics, there can be a high level of uncertainty if the conditions of timers, devices, and other variables are unknown. In addition, each athlete's ability may have been measured with different timers, equipment, and / or environmental conditions.

  While some systems and methods may provide a qualified rating for athletes, current systems and methods are expensive and time consuming. For example, current systems and methods require training a person to manage multiple test protocols. In addition, given the cost and time-consuming process of training, calibrating the equipment, moving to various locations and performing analysis, this process is too expensive and time consuming for many athletes .

  In addition, amateur athletes may not conduct such testing or analysis. This is unfortunate. This is because athletic performance tends to encourage continued exercise, even for non-competitors. Unfortunately, without proper analysis and testing, an individual may not improve the desired motor characteristics. In addition, relying solely on physical improvements from exercise often results in failure. This is because many physical improvements take weeks or months to become visible and therefore do not provide enough motivation to maintain an exercise program. For example, it may take a longer time for an individual to be physically aware of what attributes are improving and what characteristics are not improving. Moreover, without an accurate system and method for measuring an individual's ability, an individual may erroneously evaluate one or more ability characteristics. Thus, for these and other reasons, improved systems and methods are sought.

BRIEF SUMMARY In order to provide a basic understanding of the present invention and the various features of the present invention, the following presents a general overview of aspects of the present invention. This summary is not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but it merely provides a general overview and context for the more detailed description that follows.

  Aspects of the invention relate to systems and methods for assessing a user's athletic performance characteristics. According to certain aspects, one or more fitness devices may be detected. Any component or set of components configured to measure fitness parameters may be a fitness device according to aspects disclosed herein. For example, a fitness device may include components necessary for a particular physical activity, such as a ball, a pack, a disk, etc., or otherwise generally associated with a particular physical activity. For example, in one aspect, the fitness device may comprise a ball, such as a medicine ball. In yet another aspect, the fitness device may comprise objects in the environment where physical activity takes place, including the environment itself, such as goal markers or mats on which the user may be located. Further exemplary aspects are discussed in more detail below when discussing specific aspects. One or more fitness devices may be used together in the system. For example, a medicine ball may include a sensor configured to measure a first parameter, and a second fitness device such as a mat includes at least one sensor configured to measure a second parameter. Also good.

  A further aspect relates to a sensor configured to detect whether a fitness device meets operational criteria. In one aspect, the fitness device may comprise a ball and the operational criteria may relate to the weight, dimensions, and / or internal pressure of the ball. In certain aspects, the ball (or other fitness device) may not collect data regarding fitness parameters if a portion of the operational criteria is not met. In another aspect, the fitness device may collect data from one or more sensors, but use of the data may be limited. In one aspect, data from related fitness equipment may not be used for score calculation. In another aspect, a score may be calculated, but if certain operational criteria are not met, the score may not be associated with a credential or may not be certified.

  A further aspect relates to a system and method for performing an activity protocol using a fitness device. The activity protocol may be selected from a plurality of activity protocols. In one aspect, the selection may be based at least in part on a detected fitness device or collection of fitness devices, a detected fitness device sensor, a parameter measured by the detected fitness device, and combinations thereof.

  A plurality of capability characteristics relating to the implementation of the user activity protocol may be calculated. For example, in one aspect, the performance characteristic is selected from the group consisting of power, agility, speed, response, and / or agility. In certain aspects, data collected from sensors on some fitness devices can be cross-referenced to validate the data. For example, timing between two user actions, timing of a particular user action, user location, fitness equipment location, user speed, fitness equipment speed, user acceleration, fitness equipment acceleration, sensor detection, and Data relating to the detection of fitness equipment may be validated by comparing data collected or otherwise derived from each sensor of each fitness equipment. In certain aspects, a score may be calculated from the verified data.

  Further aspects relate to fitness equipment standardization and user implementation during activity protocols. For example, in one aspect, the fitness device may comprise a mat and the device (which may or may not be a fitness device) may comprise footwear. In one aspect, the mat may include one or more sensors configured to detect pressure from the footwear and determine whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point, such as a spike. In certain aspects, such systems and methods prevent fraud and / or ensure that multiple users use similar fitness equipment in a consistent manner during one or more activity protocols. obtain. In another aspect, certain functions (eg, protocols available for selection and / or calculation of specific scores) may or may not be disabled if a device is not detected. If it is not usable. For example, the certification score may not be calculated if a ball (eg, a medicine ball) is not detected. In another aspect, the certification score may not be collected if a particular sensor (eg, on a medicine ball) has not been detected.

  According to various aspects, a fitness device may have one or more replaceable sensors. In one aspect, the medicine ball can have a replaceable two-axis accelerometer that can be replaced with a three-axis accelerometer. In certain aspects, the detection of a sensor, such as an accelerometer, may be used to select an activity protocol from among a plurality of activity protocols. A further aspect may detect that the replacement sensor is a different type of sensor than the original sensor. Further aspects may adjust the characteristics of the fitness device based on the detected characteristics of another fitness device.

  A further aspect relates to a ball fitness device having a first sensor configured to measure a fitness parameter. The ball may have a second sensor configured to measure a first motion reference of the ball. A ball wireless transceiver may transmit data collected from the first sensor and the second sensor. The ball may be configured to communicate with a system having a memory having computer-executable instructions. The instruction may determine whether the first operational criterion is not met. In certain aspects, system functions, including ball functions, may be disabled or otherwise not fully functional. For example, in one aspect, data collection and / or use of data to calculate a score may be disabled. In some embodiments, data from the ball sensor can be used to calculate performance characteristics such as, for example, power, agility, speed, response, agility, and combinations thereof. Some data may relate to, for example, distance traveled, speed while flying, and / or power upon impact.

  The ball may be configured to communicate with one or more other fitness devices. In one aspect, the calculation for the at least one performance characteristic may include the use of data from two or more fitness devices. In one aspect, the performance characteristics are calculated from data derived from a ball sensor and a mat sensor.

[Invention 1001]
A first sensor configured to measure fitness parameters;
A second sensor configured to measure a first motion reference of the ball;
A transceiver configured to wirelessly transmit data related to the first parameter measured by the first sensor and the second sensor and the first operational criteria;
And the ball.
[Invention 1002]
A processor;
When computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor
Determining that the first operating criterion is not satisfied; and
Disabling system functionality
A computer-readable medium containing the computer-executable instructions for implementing
The ball of the invention 1001, configured to communicate with the system comprising:
[Invention 1003]
The ball of the invention 1002 wherein the function includes score calculation.
[Invention 1004]
The ball of the present invention 1003, wherein the function includes calculation of a certification score.
[Invention 1005]
A processor;
When computer-executable instructions are executed by the processor
Calculating a plurality of performance characteristics during a user's implementation of the first activity protocol based at least in part on the fitness parameter measured by the first sensor.
A computer-readable medium containing the computer-executable instructions for implementing
The ball of the present invention 1001 further comprising:
[Invention 1006]
The ball of the invention 1005, wherein the performance characteristics are selected from the group consisting of power, agility, speed, response, agility, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1007]
The ball of the invention 1002, wherein the first operational criterion specifies a range for weight, dimensions, internal pressure, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1008]
The ball of the invention 1005, wherein the calculation for at least one of the plurality of performance characteristics includes the use of data from a third sensor associated with a fitness device configured to measure a fitness parameter.
[Invention 1009]
The fitness parameter measured by the first sensor is selected from the group consisting of distance traveled, speed while flying, power upon impact, and combinations thereof, and the ability characteristic is power, The ball of the invention 1008 selected from the group consisting of agility, speed, reaction, agility, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1010]
The instruction is
Obtaining a score based on the calculated ability characteristic
The ball of the present invention 1009, further comprising:
[Invention 1011]
A method to assess a user's ability characteristics, including the following steps:
Detecting the ball comprising a sensor configured to measure the first parameter and a sensor configured to detect whether the ball meets a predetermined operational criterion; and
Selecting a first activity protocol from a plurality of activity protocols, the selection comprising: a detected fitness device; a detected fitness device sensor; a parameter measured by the detected fitness device; and A step based at least in part on one or more factors selected from the group consisting of these combinations.
[Invention 1012]
The method of the present invention 1011, wherein the sensor configured to measure the first parameter comprises the sensor configured to detect whether the ball meets the predetermined operational criteria.
[Invention 1013]
Calculating a plurality of performance characteristics from data collected from one or more sensors of the ball while the user is performing the first activity protocol.
The method of claim 1012 further comprising:
[Invention 1014]
The method of invention 1013, wherein said capability characteristic is selected from the group consisting of power, agility, speed, response, agility, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1015]
Receiving data from a sensor of the second fitness device; and
Timing between two user actions, timing of specific user actions, user location, fitness equipment location, user speed, fitness equipment speed, user acceleration, fitness equipment acceleration, sensor detection, fitness equipment Cross-reference the data collected from the sensor of the ball and the data collected from the second fitness device to verify the validity of the action selected from the group consisting of detection and combinations thereof Stage
The method of invention 1013, further comprising:
[Invention 1016]
The method of the present invention 1011, wherein at least one detected fitness device comprises a ball and the predetermined operating criteria specifies a range for weight, dimensions, internal pressure, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1017]
Using the ball sensor to determine whether the device meets predetermined operating criteria
The method of invention 1011 further comprising:
[Invention 1018]
A method to assess a user's ability characteristics, including the following steps:
Detecting a plurality of fitness devices in the system, wherein the plurality of fitness devices are at least
A first fitness device comprising at least one sensor configured to measure a first parameter;
A second fitness device comprising at least one sensor configured to measure a second parameter;
Comprising a stage;
Using at least one sensor of the detected fitness device to determine whether the at least one detected fitness device meets a predetermined operating criteria; and
Selecting a first activity protocol from a plurality of activity protocols, the selection comprising: a detected fitness device; a detected fitness device sensor; a parameter measured by the detected fitness device; and A step based at least in part on one or more factors selected from the group consisting of these combinations.
[Invention 1019]
Calculating a plurality of performance characteristics from data collected from the first fitness device and the second fitness device while the user is performing the first activity protocol
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1020]
The method of the present invention 1019, wherein the capability characteristic is selected from the group consisting of power, agility, speed, response, agility, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1021]
Timing between two user actions, timing of specific user actions, user location, fitness equipment location, user speed, fitness equipment speed, user acceleration, fitness equipment acceleration, sensor detection, fitness equipment Data collected from the sensor of the first fitness device and data collected from the sensor of the second fitness device to confirm the validity of the operation selected from the group consisting of detection and combinations thereof To cross-reference to
The method of claim 1019, further comprising:
[Invention 1022]
Calculating a score from at least a portion of the calculated ability characteristic;
The method of the present invention 1021 further comprising:
[Invention 1023]
The method of the present invention 1018, wherein at least one detected fitness device comprises a ball and the predetermined operating criteria specifies a range for weight, dimensions, internal pressure, and combinations thereof.
[Invention 1024]
Using a detected fitness device sensor to determine whether a predetermined operating criterion is met by a device that is not one of the detected fitness devices
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1025]
The method of 1024 of the present invention, wherein the detected fitness device comprises a mat and the device comprises footwear.
[Invention 1026]
Detecting pressure from the footwear using a sensor of the mat; and
Determining whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point
The method of the present invention 1025 further comprising:
[Invention 1027]
The detected fitness device comprises a mat and footwear, the mat comprising one or more sensors configured to detect pressure from the footwear, the method comprising:
Detecting pressure from the footwear using a sensor of the mat; and
Determining whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1028]
Determining that at least one operational criterion is not met; and
Disabling the functionality of the system
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1029]
The method of the present invention 1028, wherein said function comprises score calculation.
[Invention 1030]
The method of the present invention 1029, wherein the function comprises calculating a certification score.
[Invention 1031]
Determining that at least one specific type of fitness equipment has not been detected and disabling at least the functionality of the system
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1032]
The method of the present invention 1031, wherein the function comprises score calculation.
[Invention 1033]
The method of the present invention 1032 wherein said function includes calculation of a certification score.
[Invention 1034]
At least one of the detected fitness devices or the device comprises a camera, and the method comprises:
Capturing an image using the camera; and
Generate multiple 3D images of motion
The method of 1024 of the invention.
[Invention 1035]
Detecting that the first sensor of the detected fitness device has been replaced with a second sensor; and
Selecting a second activity protocol from a plurality of said activity protocols
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:
[Invention 1036]
Determining that the second sensor is a different type of sensor than the first sensor;
The method of invention 1035, further comprising:
[Invention 1037]
Adjusting the characteristic of the second fitness device based at least in part on the detected characteristic of the first fitness device
The method of the present invention 1018 further comprising:

These and other features of the invention will be apparent from the detailed description below.

The various aspects disclosed herein and some of their advantages can be more fully understood by reference to the following detailed description in view of the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the attached drawings are not necessarily to scale.
FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary computer environment that can be used to implement various examples of the invention. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method that may be implemented in accordance with various aspects of the invention. FIG. 2 illustrates an example system having one or more fitness devices in accordance with various aspects of the present invention. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method that may be implemented in accordance with various aspects of the invention. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method that may be implemented in accordance with various aspects of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION The following description of various exemplary structures and methods according to the present invention refers to the accompanying drawings. The drawings form part of the present specification and each drawing shows, by way of example, various fitness equipment and systems using fitness equipment, according to various aspects of the invention. In addition, it should be understood that other specific arrangements of parts and structures may be used and structural and functional modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. .

  An aspect relates to a fitness device having one or more sensors. As used herein, the term “fitness equipment” includes any object that may be used and involved during physical activity, such as sports or training exercises. In certain aspects, one or more fitness devices may be held, attached, or worn by the user. Examples of equipment may include clothes such as shoes, shirts, shorts, gloves, hats, or electronic equipment such as watches, telephones, media players, among others. In one aspect, the fitness device can be attachable to a user's shoes. In another aspect, the device may be attached to a wrist, a user's arm similar to wearing a ring, such as a mobile terminal device and / or any handheld electronic device including a personal media player. It can also be grasped by hand.

  Examples of additional fitness equipment may include components that are required for or otherwise commonly associated with physical activity. Examples of fitness equipment include, but are not limited to, golf balls, basketballs, baseballs, soccer balls, footballs, balls, hockey packs, weights, bats, clubs, sticks, paddles, mats, and combinations thereof. obtain. In a further aspect, examples of fitness equipment include the environment itself, such as goal nets, hoops, backboards, portions of the field, such as midlines, perimeter boundaries, end zones, field goal markers, bases, and combinations thereof. It may include objects in the environment where physical activity takes place.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary fitness device 100 according to one aspect disclosed herein. Exemplary fitness device 100 may be a spherical ball. Fitness device 100 may include one or more sensors (collectively referred to as sensor 101), such as sensor 101A and sensor 101B. The sensor 101 may comprise any device configured to detect a stimulus and provide a resulting signal. In some embodiments, the sensor 101 may be one of, for example, velocity, acceleration, pressure, location, energy transfer, temperature, orientation, light, sound, magnetism, or a specific movement along two or more axes. Or it can be used to measure multiple parameters.

  In one aspect, sensor 101 may comprise an accelerometer module. In one aspect, the accelerometer module may be implemented using a two-axis accelerometer for measuring acceleration along two orthogonal axes. In another aspect, the accelerometer module may be implemented using a three-axis accelerometer for measuring acceleration along three orthogonal axes. Further exemplary sensors may include strain gauges, conductive inks, piezoelectric elements and / or pressure transducers. In some embodiments, the relative pressure applied to two or more sensors 101 can be used to display the weight distribution. In yet another aspect, pressure detected or measured by one or more sensors 101 can be used to detect gripping forces such as a ball or bat grip.

  As shown in FIG. 1, one or more sensors 101 may be embedded in the fitness device 100. In this regard, the sensor may be positioned in the outer layer of the fitness device. This may be advantageous to protect the sensor 101 and / or prevent unauthorized operation of the sensor 101. In another aspect, one or more sensors 101 may not be fully embedded within fitness device 100. This can be advantageous, for example, in obtaining accurate measurements from the sensor 101. Allows one or more sensors 101 to be removable and / or replaceable, regardless of whether the one or more sensors 101 are fully or partially embedded in the fitness device 100 it can. This embodiment may be useful for one or more reasons, for example, to facilitate the replacement of a failed sensor or an aging sensor. This embodiment may also allow the fitness device 100 to be used in various activities. For example, fitness device 100 includes a ball and sensor 101A includes a removable accelerometer module configured to detect acceleration within a first range generally associated with a professional athlete performing a specific activity. Also good. The accelerometer module may be replaced with a different sensor (ie, a pressure sensor) configured to detect parameters commonly associated with professional athletes performing different activities. Further, although sensor 101A is illustrated as being physically separate from 101B, the benefit of this disclosure is that two or more sensors, such as sensor 101, may be provided on a single component. Those skilled in the art will readily understand.

  By using a removable sensor, a sensor such as sensor 101A can be used with several different fitness devices such as soccer ball, medicine ball, football and / or without the user obtaining a new sensor A failed device such as a medicine ball can be upgraded or replaced. In certain aspects, the placement of one or more sensors 101 may be configured such that the weight of the built-in sensor 101 does not change the balance or center of gravity of the fitness device 100.

  In some embodiments, sensor 101A can be of the same type as sensor 101B. For example, in one aspect, each sensor 101 can be an accelerometer. In another aspect, sensor 101A may be similar to sensor 101B but not the same. For example, sensor 101A includes a first accelerometer configured to detect acceleration within a first range, and sensor 101B includes a second acceleration configured to detect acceleration within a second range. You may have a meter. In certain aspects, the first range may overlap with or otherwise comprise a value within the second range detectable by the second accelerometer. In yet another aspect, sensor 101 may measure different parameters. For example, in one aspect, sensor 101A can comprise an accelerometer and sensor 101 can comprise a pressure sensor.

  The sensor 101 may be active or passive. For example, in certain aspects, one or more sensors may actively transmit or provide an output, such as a wireless signal that may be used in the detection of parameters. For example, the sensor 101 may include an electromagnetic device such as a wireless sensor including, for example, a radio frequency sensor, an electromagnetic sensor, and / or an optical sensor. In one aspect, one or more sensors can be implemented using a microstrip antenna. In yet another aspect, the sensor 101 may comprise a passive sensor configured to detect and / or measure a stimulus. Regardless of whether sensor 101 is active or passive, sensor 101 is a stimulus transmitted by another sensor of fitness device 100 or of another device, such as a second fitness device or a non-fitness device. Or the result of a stimulus may be detected. Power to the sensor 101 can be provided by a power source 107 (discussed below).

  Fitness device 100 may include a processor 103 and / or a memory 104. The memory 104 may include read only memory (ROM) and / or random access memory (RAM). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, memory 104 may store instructions that are executed on a computer for execution by a processor, such as processor 103. In certain aspects, the processor 103 may be configured to process the output transmitted from the sensor 101. The processor 103 can be a programmable microprocessor, and in yet another aspect, the processor 103 can be a special purpose circuit device such as an ASIC. In certain aspects, the memory 104 may include computer-executed instructions that, when executed by a processor, such as the processor 103, may be configured to perform one or more operations. Examples of computer-executable instructions may include performing operations such as curve smoothing, noise filtering, outlier removal, amplification, integration, integration, etc. on the output from sensor 101. Although memory 104 and processor 105 are illustrated as being provided within device 100, those skilled in the art will readily understand that memory 104 and / or processor 105 may be external to fitness device 100. Will.

  In an aspect, the processor 103 may be in communication with the transceiver 105 for transmission to an electronic device, such as the device 108, and thus provides a processed or unprocessed signal to the transceiver 105. obtain. In certain aspects, power supply 107 may be configured to provide power to transceiver 105, memory 104, processor 103, and / or sensor 101. The power source 107 may be configured to accept alternating current (AC) and / or direct current (DC). In certain aspects, the power source 107 may include a converter for converting energy between AC power and DC power.

  The electronic device 108 may include a transceiver 109 configured to communicate with the transceiver 105 of the fitness device 100. In another aspect, the transceiver 109 may be configured to communicate with other fitness devices in addition to or instead of the fitness device 100. In certain aspects, the receiver 109 may be in communication with a processor, such as the processor 111. For example, the transceiver may send a signal to the processor 111, such as raw sensor data or processed sensor data. Similar to the processor 103, the processor 111 can perform any desired operations such as curve smoothing, noise filtering, outlier removal, amplification, integration, integration, etc. on the processed signal.

  The electronic device 108 may comprise two removable components 112a, 112b. For example, the component 112a can be a relatively small component compared to the component 112b. For example, in one aspect, component 112b is a mobile terminal device and / or personal media player, and component 112a provides yet another function to component 112b. The component 112a may be connected to the component 112b so that the processor 111 can communicate with the calculation processor 113 of the electronic device 108. The processor 111 may directly communicate with the calculation processing unit 113 and may be part of the calculation processing unit 113 in some embodiments. The component 112a may also communicate with the computation processor 113 and other portions of the component 112b via an input / output (I / O) interface 114 using one or more channels, such as channel 114a. In some embodiments, for example, if 112a cannot be removed, the I / O interface may be excluded. Furthermore, the processor 111 of the component 112a and / or the calculation processor 113 of the component 112b may be redundant in some aspects or otherwise unnecessary.

  The calculation processing unit 113 may include a processor configured to read data from and / or write data to the memory 115. Examples of data may include an unprocessed signal or a processed signal from sensor 101. The calculation processor 113 further acts on the processed signal provided by one or more fitness devices, such as the fitness device 100, for example, to generate a set of exercise data corresponding to the exercise activity performed by the user. obtain. In an aspect, the calculation processing unit 113 may execute computer-executable instructions located on a memory such as the memory 115. Examples of computer-executable instructions may include one or more processes discussed below in connection with FIG. 2, FIG. 4, and / or FIG.

  The electronic device 108 may further include an I / O interface device 117. The I / O interface device 117 is connected to one or more ports or interfaces (or connected via such ports or interfaces) configured to receive input or transmit output from the device 108. Equipment). In some embodiments, the I / O interface device 117 may comprise a peripheral device that is permanently or semi-permanently connected to the computing unit 203. For example, in many computers, the calculation processing unit 113 and the memory 115 are semi-permanently housed in a housing. In some aspects, such as a mobile terminal device or a personal media player, a display may also be provided in the housing. In yet another aspect, one or more other peripheral devices such as a removable memory and / or display may be removably connected to the computer. The interface or port of the I / O interface device 117 is, for example, one or a plurality of communications for bringing a peripheral device (directly or indirectly via a bus or the like) into a communication state operable with the calculation processing unit 113. Ports can be provided. Examples of communication ports may include a parallel bus port or a serial bus port, such as a universal serial bus (USB) standard or an IEEE 1394 high-speed serial bus standard (such as a Firewire port). Alternatively or additionally, I / O interface device 117 may comprise a communication port configured to communicate with a network. In certain aspects, the I / O interface device 117 may comprise a wireless data “port” such as a Bluetooth interface, a Wi-Fi interface, an infrared data port, and the like.

  It should be understood that the electronic device 108 is merely exemplary, and that various aspects within the scope of the present disclosure may include more or fewer components than the electronic device 108 shown in FIG. . In certain aspects, the electronic device 108 may include specific functionality, such as a server computer in a fitness center. Such dedicated devices may thus eliminate unnecessary peripheral devices such as a keyboard and / or mouse, but may include additional devices such as dedicated communication connections or multiple communication connections. Other exemplary aspects of electronic device 108 may alternatively or additionally use computer equipment that is intended to perform a wide variety of functions, such as a desktop or laptop computer. These computer equipments may have any combination of peripheral devices or further components as required.

  A further aspect disclosed herein relates to standardizing or normalizing a fitness device such as fitness device 100. In an aspect, the one or more sensors detect a capability parameter of a user using one or more fitness devices to standardize one of the fitness devices being used. Can be configured. In an aspect, a standardized or normalized fitness device may be configurable to measure a particular behavior of a fitness device user. In certain aspects, one or more sensors may be configured to detect inappropriate use. In one aspect, two or more fitness devices may be used in a networked environment.

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart 200 illustrating an exemplary method that may be used in accordance with various aspects of the invention. The flowchart 200 may be used in conjunction with the fitness device 100 shown in FIG. 1 and may be used in conjunction with any other device having a sensor configured to detect or measure a parameter. In an aspect, the flowchart 200 is implemented in connection with a system having multiple sensors. Accordingly, examples of use of some aspects of the flowchart 200 of FIG. 2 will be described in conjunction with the system 300 of FIG. For example, block 202 can be implemented to detect fitness equipment. Looking at the system 300 of FIG. 3, two fitness devices, a fitness ball 301 and a mat 302 are shown. The ball 301 may be a power ball or an exercise ball in some embodiments. In certain aspects, the ball 301 may be generally similar to the fitness device 100 of FIG. 1, and thus the ball 301 may comprise one or more components shown in FIG. Thus, although not explicitly shown in FIG. 3, in the following, reference will be made to the individual components 101-108 of the ball 301 when describing some aspects disclosed herein. System 300 may further comprise another fitness device, such as mat 302. Similar to the ball 301, the mat 302 may include one or more components shown in the exemplary fitness device 100 of FIG.

  Implementation of block 202 may provide for detection of ball 301, mat 302, and / or other fitness equipment of system 300. As described below, the ball 301, mat 302, and / or other fitness equipment may be sold together as a kit. In certain aspects, the mat 302 may comprise a memory 304. Memory 304 may include computer readable instructions that include values that allow identification of mat 302. Computer-executable instructions may be executed by a processor such as processor 306 and transmitted to the computing device, such as by transceiver 208. Memory 304, processor 306, and transceiver 308 are shown in dotted lines in FIG. 3 to show that they can be embedded within mat 302. In certain aspects, the mat 302 can include a protective chamber or housing that protects electronic components, including components 304-308, from damage. Similarly, the memory 104 of the ball 301 may store a value that enables the ball 301 to be identified.

  For example, values representing fitness equipment such as ball 301 and / or mat 302 may include unique values. The unique value may include a serial number assigned to that particular device or kit of which the device is a part. In yet another aspect, the value is not unique and may generically refer to the device type. For example, the value can be a function of the fitness equipment characteristics. In one aspect, a value may be assigned to a ball weighing 6.6 pounds and a different value assigned to a ball weighing 3.3 pounds. In another aspect, a specific value may be assigned to a fitness device, such as a ball 301, designed for a specific purpose. In another aspect, the value may allow an equipment manufacturer or supplier to be identified. In certain aspects, the value may include both a unique identifier and a generic identifier. For example, the value may include a generic identifier assigned to a device having the specified characteristics as well as a unique serial number (or portion thereof).

  The value may be received at a computer device such as electronic device 108. In one aspect, the memory 115 may include computer-executable instructions that, when executed by a processor, such as the computing processor 113, allow detection of one or more fitness equipments within the system 300. In this regard, the memory 115 may comprise software having one or more functions that may depend on the detected fitness equipment. For example, some functions can be used when a fitness device such as ball 301 or mat 302 is detected, but if the ball 301 and / or mat 302 are not detected, at least a portion of the function is disabled. May or may not be fully functional. For example, including the case where block 514 of FIG. 5 is described, as will be described later in the present disclosure, an aspect of the present disclosure relates to calculating a score based on sensor data. However, such functionality may be disabled or otherwise disabled if a fitness device is not detected.

  A further aspect relates to a system and method for normalizing or standardizing fitness devices. Implementation of such systems and methods includes, but is not limited to, using improperly configured devices can be dangerous or harmful to the audience as well as to the audience. Can be advantageous for several reasons. In addition, if a fitness device is used to measure a user's ability characteristics to provide a score, the device provided to each user who is given a score is normalized so that meaningful results are obtained. Or it can be beneficial to ensure that it is standardized.

  In an aspect, block 204 may be performed to determine whether one or more fitness equipments are within certain operational criteria or parameters. In one aspect, the sensor 101 of the ball 301 may include a pressure sensor that detects the internal pressure of the ball 301. In this regard, if the pressure is above the threshold, the user may not be holding the ball suitable for performing certain tasks. Similarly, if the internal pressure of the ball 301 is below the threshold, the user may gain an unfair advantage due to increased grip on the ball. In another aspect, the mat 302 or another fitness device may detect or measure characteristics of another fitness device. For example, in one aspect, the mat 302 can include a sensor (ie, sensor 310) that can be configured to measure a parameter of the ball 301. In one aspect, the sensor 310 may measure the weight of the ball 301 to ensure that the weight of the ball 301 is within a predetermined range.

  In addition, fitness devices such as device 301 and device 302 may measure or detect operating parameters of fitness devices that are environmental conditions or that are not equipped with or have not been tested. For example, certain activities on mat 301 may require the user to wear a particular type of footwear, such as a jogging shoe. Sensors on mat 301, including but not limited to sensors 310, 312 and 314, may detect or measure whether unauthorized footwear such as spikes are worn. In certain aspects, the mat 302 may comprise one or more sensors configured to measure pressure points and / or weight distributions obtained from footwear. The system 300 may be configured to determine whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point, such as from wearing a spike. The unauthorized pressure points may be determined based on a predetermined range set forth in a computer executable instruction located in memory 304, for example.

  In another aspect, the component may be a fitness device, but the sensor may not be configured to measure a property detectable by another fitness device. For example, in one aspect, at least one fitness device may comprise an article of footwear. For example, the footwear may include a sensor that measures speed (an exemplary method that may be implemented to detect speed is discussed in more detail below), but the footwear is not allowed pressure, such as the use of spikes. It is not necessary to provide a pressure sensor for detecting the point. Thus, although the footwear is technically a fitness device, another fitness device, such as mat 302, can be used to detect certain characteristics of the footwear.

  In certain aspects, a camera, such as camera 320, may also detect or measure one or more characteristics of the user before, during, or after any process or routine disclosed herein. The camera 320 may be physically or logically incorporated into one or more fitness equipment that includes a mat 302. In another aspect, the camera 320 may be implemented in a helmet, such as a batter's helmet, that may be used in baseball related activities. In one aspect, the camera 320 may be operatively connected in a mobile terminal device such as a mobile phone. In an aspect, the mobile terminal device (or any mobile device) can be a general purpose device that includes a memory having instructions implemented on a computer that configures the device to function as a fitness device. For example, cell phones use GPS and / or signal localization, such as cellular or WI-FI signals, to detect speed, acceleration, location or other parameters during physical activity, etc. Software for tracking the user may be provided. In this regard, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that a camera, such as camera 320, can be associated with any type of fitness equipment.

  In another aspect, the camera 320 can be physically or logically separate from one or more fitness equipment. In one aspect, the camera 320 may comprise any type of imaging device configured to capture one or more images. In one aspect, the camera 320 may be configured to capture still images, and in another aspect, it may be configured to capture multiple images, such as to form a video. The camera 320 may be configured to capture any light spectrum. For example, in some embodiments, the camera 320 may capture infrared (IR) light. In another aspect, the camera 320 can be a plurality of cameras. The camera 320 can detect 3D motion. In a further aspect, the camera 320 can be used to render a three-dimensional animation of detected motion. The camera 320 may be sold as a kit combined with other fitness equipment that includes a ball 301 or mat 302.

  If it is determined that the criteria (parameters) are not within the predetermined range (ie, block 206), at block 204, one or more features of the software application and / or another fitness device are disabled. It may or may not be usable otherwise. For example, a software function that assists in calculating a score based on sensor data derived from one or more of the fitness devices 301, 302 may not function. In another aspect, the score may still be able to be calculated, but if a parameter is not included within a predefined range, the score is not certified or no longer associated with a credential. In one aspect, the fitness device comprises a ball, such as ball 301, and the predetermined operational criteria may specify ranges for weight, dimensions, internal pressure, and combinations thereof. In one aspect, the predetermined range may include one value. For example, in one aspect, an acceptable range for a ball is 3.3 pounds, so that 3.2 pounds and 3.4 pounds would each be considered out of range.

  In an aspect, at block 208, an electronic signal configured to display a message on a display device may be transmitted. For example, in one aspect, a message may be displayed for the user to view, indicating an error in a fitness device such as ball 301 or mat 302. In certain aspects, the message may display the detected or measured value obtained at block 206 along with an acceptable range. In yet another aspect, a simpler message may only display which parameters were insufficient. In yet a further aspect, a simpler message may indicate that the fitness device has not passed the test. In addition to or instead of displaying a message on the display device, information about the detection parameter or measurement parameter may be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as memory 115, and remote computer-readable via a communication channel. It may be sent to a medium.

  If at block 204 it is determined that the one or more parameters are within a predetermined range, block 210 may be implemented. At block 210, one or more characteristics of the fitness equipment 301, 302 may be adjusted. The adjustment (or determination to adjust) may be based on one or more parameters detected or measured at block 204. In another aspect, the adjustment (or associated determination) can be based on any data obtained from sensors 101, 310, 312 and / or 314. For example, in one aspect, sensor 314 is positioned between indicia 316 and indicia 318. If the user's height or weight exceeds a threshold, the distance between the indicia may be increased. In one aspect, the indicia 316, 318 may be displayed and automatically adjusted by one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs). In another aspect, the mat 302 can include a track that allows the indicia 316 or indicia 318 to be adjusted. In fact, any mechanism that can be configured to allow adjustment of the indicia 316, 318 is included within the scope of the present invention.

  Block 212 may be implemented to determine or select which activity protocol should be performed on the fitness equipment 301, 302. In one aspect, a test protocol configured to measure a user's ability characteristics during a defined activity to provide a score may be implemented. In one aspect, a SPARQ ™ test protocol can be selected. The selection protocol, which can be a SPARQ ™ test protocol, may be selected from among several other activity protocols. An exemplary protocol may include one or more activities described within the SPARQ ™ Football Test Protocol, which can be found at http://www.nike.com/nikeos/p/sparqtraining/ en_US / how_to_test? sport = football2 & gender = m & user_type = athlete & test = overview (last access May 25, 2010), which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  One or more factors may be considered in selecting an activity protocol. FIG. 4 illustrates a flowchart 400 of an exemplary method according to one aspect of the present invention that may be implemented as part of selecting an activity protocol, eg, in connection with block 212. Although the various blocks in FIG. 4 are shown as a linear arrangement, the flowchart 400 is merely exemplary, and each block illustrated may include certain operations or other activities involving activities associated with other blocks in the flowchart 400. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will readily appreciate that they can be performed in any order, including that performed concurrently with operation. Furthermore, more or fewer processes may be performed in connection with protocol selection without departing from the scope of the present invention.

  Block 402 may detect one or more fitness equipment. In certain aspects, block 402 may be part of block 202 or may incorporate information or data from block 202. In another aspect, block 402 is performed in addition to or instead of block 202. In one aspect, upon detection of the ball 301 and mat 302, computer-executable instructions that may be located, for example, on the memory 115 of the electronic device 108 may be executed, for example, by the computing unit 113 to select a particular activity protocol . In certain aspects, the detection of certain fitness equipment may allow selection of certain protocols. For example, if the mat 302 is detected but the ball 301 is not detected, at least one protocol that is normally available may be desirable for selection.

  Block 404 may detect one or more sensors on one or more fitness devices, such as ball 301 or mat 302. For example, the sensor 101 of the ball 301 can be replaced with another sensor. Thus, in some combinations, the sensor 101 may cause the ball 301 to lose balance or have an incorrect center of gravity. Thus, in one aspect, computer-executable instructions that detect the presence of one or more sensors 101 in the ball 301 or other fitness device may be executed. In one aspect, the actual placement of sensor 101 may be considered. Thus, the aspects disclosed herein assume that the weight of the built-in sensor 101 can be configured so as not to change the balance or center of gravity of the fitness device 100. In certain aspects, if a sensor or combination of sensors is detected, a “certified” protocol may or may not be selected.

  In this regard, block 404 may determine whether a “certified” sensor is in fitness equipment 301, 302. In one aspect, an inexpensive sensor can allow a user to select a test protocol, but the inexpensive sensor can provide the level of accuracy and / or required to qualify activities performed using the test equipment. Measurement parameters using the fitness device need not be certified because they may not have accuracy. In certain aspects, certain sensors may be shaped to fit only in certain configurations associated with a fitness device, for example to ensure compliance.

  An illustrative block 406 may be implemented to obtain one or more parameters from the sensor prior to selecting an activity protocol. The parameters can include, for example, parameters from the environment, users, other devices, and / or combinations thereof. In certain aspects, the parameters may be measured or detected prior to selection of an activity protocol and then used in selection and / or provide options for selection. For example, one or more activity protocols may be selected or made available for selection based on the user's weight and / or height or a combination of the user's weight or height. In some embodiments, the sensor 101 can measure the distance between the ball 301 and the mat 302. The mat 302 may be configured such that one of the sensors 406, 408, and / or 410 is configured to measure the user's weight. For example, in one aspect, the user may be asked or requested to place the ball 301 on the user's head while standing on the mat 302. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the user's weight and height are merely examples of measurements, and that other measurements or detection of parameters from one or more fitness devices are also within the scope of the present invention.

  User input may be performed at block 408. User input may be received via the I / O interface device 117 of the electronic device 117, for example. In one aspect, user input may select a specific activity protocol. The protocol selection can be made from a plurality of available protocols. The plurality of available protocols are one or more results obtained from other processes, including, for example, the processes described in connection with block 402 to block 406 or other processes disclosed herein. Based at least in part.

  Block 216 may be implemented to initiate an activity protocol. In one aspect, the activity protocol may include the protocol selected at block 214. FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of an exemplary method for performing an activity protocol according to an aspect of the present invention. The exemplary flow diagram 500 of FIG. 5 illustrates only one exemplary embodiment and is not to be construed as a limitation of the present invention to a particular embodiment. Turning to FIG. 5, the user may be instructed to perform certain activities (see block 502). In some aspects, the instructions may be provided simply by providing a user selectable link using, for example, a user input device operably connected to the I / O interface device 117 of the electronic device 108. . In a further aspect, the indication may include an audible component that indicates, for example, when the user should “start” or “stop” the activity. In still yet another aspect, the instructions may include video or electronically generated instructions, which may be provided by a display device operably connected to the electronic device 108, for example. In another aspect, the instructions may be provided in a tangible form, for example by having the user print the instructions on paper, such as using a printing device operably connected to the electronic device 108.

  In a further aspect, the instructions may be provided by sending output from a fitness device such as ball 301 or mat 302. For example, in one aspect, the indicia 316 can be a “start line” where an instruction (eg, from block 502) requires an activity to begin at that indicia 316. Certain activity protocols may require the user to proceed toward indicia 318, and thus in some embodiments, a visual indication, such as an LED, may be associated with one or more of indicia 316, 318. For example, a green LED may indicate that the user starts with an indicia 316 and a red LED may indicate that the user should stop at the indicia 318. In another aspect, indicia 318 may be associated with indicia 318 to display different starting positions of activities. In another aspect, a portion of the ball 301 may be illuminated, vibrated, or otherwise used to signal the user. The indication may be based on parameters detected from one or more sensors or other equipment.

  Block 504 may receive one or more parameters from sensors including sensor 101 and / or sensors 310, 312, or 314. Furthermore, there is no requirement that all parameters received should be received from the fitness equipment. In certain aspects, the camera 320 may not be associated with a fitness device, but parameters from the camera 320 may be received in part of the block 504, or any other process disclosed herein. Information from sensors such as sensors 101, 310, 312, 314 and / or camera 320 may be processed in one or more processors such as processor 103, processor 111, and / or calculation processor 113 (see block 506, etc.). ). In one aspect, raw data can be processed. In another aspect, data from a sensor, such as sensor 101, can be processed according to a number of different processes. Processing of data from one sensor, such as sensor 101A, may depend on data received from another sensor, such as sensor 101B. In another aspect, data from multiple sensors, such as sensor 101, can be combined. Those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure will appreciate that the precise processing of data from one or more sensors can depend on a myriad of factors including, but not limited to, a particular activity protocol.

  Data obtained from one or more sensors, such as sensors 101, 310, 312, 314 and / or camera 320, can be used to calculate a capability characteristic (see block 508, etc.). The data may include raw data and / or processed data. In one aspect, the data includes data processed according to block 506. An example of one capability characteristic may include speed. Velocity can be measured by velocity along one or more axes, for example by an accelerometer. For example, the speed parameter could incorporate linear and / or lateral velocities. In other aspects, the turning speed is taken into account, for example, the speed at which the user changes direction to his right or left or forward or backward may be measured. In some embodiments, for example, a multidimensional accelerometer can be used to allow for the detection of velocity along two orthogonal axes. In another aspect, the accelerometer may measure velocity along three orthogonal axes.

  An accelerometer can be used alone or in combination with one or more additional devices, such as another sensor, to provide initial or onset acceleration, deceleration, acceleration during different time frames, and / or at specific locations. Acceleration can be measured, including acceleration. For example, sensors 310, 312, and 314 may be used to detect the user's pressure and thus the user's position on the mat 302. Further, exemplary data may relate to, for example, distance traveled, speed while flying, and / or power upon impact. Sensors such as sensors 101, 310, 312 and 314 may be configured to transmit and / or receive information location data, such as by wireless signals. In one aspect, GPS data may be used to detect the location of the user, fitness equipment 301, 302, or a combination thereof. In another aspect, the one or more sensors may comprise active or passive RFID components. For example, the position may be determined when the user passes within the proximity range of the RFID device such as being built into the mat 302 or attachable to the mat 302. In another aspect, the optical signal may assist in determining one or more capability characteristics. For example, when a user traverses a light beam, the block of light received by the sensor can indicate the user's location, and further, the timing of blocking the reception of signals (such as light, wireless, and combinations thereof) can be: Further data regarding other capability characteristics such as speed and / or acceleration may be provided.

  The calculation of capability characteristics may be performed using one or more algorithms or rules stored on a computer readable medium such as memory 115. An example of a technique for determining a user's speed from an accelerometer signal is, for example, published by Blackadar et al., Titled `` Monitoring Activity Of A User In Locomotion On Foot '' issued on May 24, 2005. U.S. Patent No. 6,898,550, issued April 19, 2005, entitled `` Monitoring Activity Of A User In Locomotion On Foot '', U.S. Patent No. 6,882,955, 2005 to Ohlenbusch et al. U.S. Patent No. 6,876,947 issued to Darley et al., Issued April 5, 2002, entitled "Monitoring Activity Of A User In Locomotion On Foot", issued December 10, 2002, U.S. Patent No. 6,493,652 to Ohlenbusch et al., Entitled `` Monitoring Activity Of A User In Locomotion On Foot '', issued on October 2, 2001, `` Detecting The Starting And Stopping Of Movement Of A U.S. Patent No. 6,298,314 to Blackadar et al., Entitled `` Person On Foot '' U.S. Patent No. 6,052,654 issued to Gaudet et al., Entitled "Measuring Foot Contact Time And Foot Loft Time Of A Person In Locomotion", issued April 18, 2000, January 25, 2000. Published in U.S. Pat.No. 6,018,705 to Gaudet et al., Entitled `` Measuring Foot Contact Time And Foot Loft Time Of A Person In Locomotion '' Incorporated herein by reference in its entirety for purposes.

  An activity protocol may have one or more subcomponents. For example, the first subcomponent may be designed and / or implemented to measure primarily a first motion characteristic or group of characteristics from the user. For example, some ability characteristics may be collected during certain parts of the activity protocol, especially for power, agility, speed, response, agility, a combination of one or more of these characteristics There may be specific themes. Select specific activities in an order that depends on additional variables, including user characteristics such as weight, gender, height, past performance, intended performance, goals, and combinations of one or more of these characteristics, among others And / or may be grouped.

  Certain sports, such as football, require power and speed, while other sports require less power and may require more speed. Thus, different activities can be performed to measure these characteristics. In addition, different positions within team sports such as football often differ in strength required for optimal ability. Therefore, it may be important to have different activity protocols for different individuals. In certain aspects, different activity protocols may be provided by individuals to provide different scores. For example, the soccer activity protocol may be different from the football activity protocol, resulting in two different scores. For example, it is contemplated that the first score may be a “soccer” score and the second score may be a “football” score. In yet another aspect, all individuals have a specific score, such as, but not limited to, a general score that measures an aggregate of competence characteristics including speed, agility, power, agility, response, and combinations thereof A score can be assigned.

  Block 510 may determine whether data obtained during one or more activity protocols can be verified. In one aspect, data validation may compare one or more data obtained from one or more sensors, such as sensors 101, 310, 314 of fitness devices 100, 301, and 302. In certain aspects, the received value indicates the presence or use of certain fitness equipment, such as equipment 301 and equipment 302. In such an aspect, a method substantially similar to the one or more processes described in connection with block 202 of FIG. 2 may be implemented. For example, if a fitness device (or a specific sensor of a fitness device) is not detected, the data may not be verified.

  In a further aspect, parameters collected from sensors (ie, sensor 101 and sensors 310-314) may be used in a validation process, such as presented as block 510. For example, the activity protocol may require the user to manipulate the ball 301 at or around the indicia 316 during the first period and then jump from the position of the indicia 318 toward the sensor 312. In such a protocol, the sensor 101 of the ball 301 includes a position sensing device and can be used to prevent individuals other than the user from supporting the activity protocol. In another aspect, to ensure that the user is performing one or more activities correctly in accordance with a particular activity protocol, the speed of the user's site, such as an arm or leg, may be Can be compared. Validation may take into account the time at which a particular activity of the activity protocol took place. For example, an activity protocol may require a user to perform a specific action within a predetermined time frame. A further requirement may require that the second operation be performed after a predetermined time frame from the first operation. In this regard, inconsistent data from one or more sensors can be detected or measured. A sensor separate from the ball 301, mat 302 or other fitness equipment may also be used to validate the data. For example, data derived from the camera 320 may be used in verification of arbitrary data derived from a fitness device sensor.

  The verification system and method may use any information from any process discussed herein. For example, any information collected, transmitted, or received in connection with the process discussed in FIG. 2 and / or FIG. 5 may be used as part of the verification process. For example, data obtained during block 202 (detecting fitness equipment) may be combined with data obtained during block 506 (processing information from the sensor). In this regard, the data that was within the acceptable parameters of the default criteria during each process (ie, block 202 and block 506) may be applied to different criteria, either separately or in combination. Further, derived data from such data may be used alone or in combination in a verification process according to various aspects.

  The verification determination may be made using one or more local or remote electronic devices. In one aspect, the electronic device 108 is configured to perform one or more processes for validating data. In certain aspects, remote electronic devices such as servers remotely located on the network may be used for data validation. In another aspect, block 510 may be omitted and / or replaced with another process that only receives an indication of whether the data has been verified.

  Block 512 may not be performed if any portion of the acquired data (from the fitness device or another device such as camera 320 when not part of the fitness device) is not verified. At block 512, an electronic signal configured to provide an error message may be transmitted (or received). In one aspect, block 512 may incorporate one or more processes described in connection with block 208 of FIG. The error message will therefore indicate what data was not verified, why the specific data could not be verified or not verified, the recommended solution, the activity affected by the activity protocol, and the combination Can be displayed. Further possible error messages may simply describe a code such as an alphanumeric value. In certain aspects, the alphanumeric value may be used by a third party to identify one or more problems with the data, fitness equipment, activity protocol, and combinations thereof. In certain aspects, the code may not be easily decipherable by the user. This can be advantageous to prevent a user from trying to perform an activity protocol that is not authorized to suppress or avoid errors in an attempt to perform the activity protocol incorrectly. The error message may be sent to one or more electronic devices including electronic device 108. In certain aspects, the message may be sent to another device, such as a mobile terminal device. There is no requirement that error messages use alphanumeric values. In certain aspects, the error message may use an audible, visual, or audiovisual cue to indicate that at least a portion of the collected data could not be verified or was not verified.

  However, if at least a portion of the data is verified at block 510, a score may be calculated (see block 514, etc.). As mentioned above, the score may be based on activity protocols, user characteristics, and / or other variables. The calculation may be based on one or more capability characteristics of block 508. In this regard, the calculation of the score may be based at least in part on the inclusion of specific data and / or the weighting of specific capability characteristics. The score calculation may be performed in one or more local or remote processors including, but not limited to, processor 103, processor 111, and / or calculation processor 113. In certain aspects, the score may be adjusted based on one or more sub-scores. For example, sub-scores can be calculated for specific characteristics such as speed, responsiveness, agility, and / or power. In certain aspects, the user may be provided with only one score, but the sub-score may be used to provide advice to improve the user's score, such as at block 516.

  Block 516 may be implemented to provide advice to improve the user's score. As mentioned above, the advice can be based at least in part on one or more sub-scores or on a portion of the collected data. For example, a specific sub-score need not be calculated, but raw or processed data may be used to provide advice. The advice may include an indication of a specific capability characteristic, a specific activity with an activity protocol, or a combination thereof. The advice may include an enumeration of activities that were not performed during one or more activity protocols.

  Historical data may be used as part of block 516. Examples of historical data may include sensor data collected from previous activity protocols. For example, historical data may indicate that the user has improved or decreased his or her performance during an activity. Another historical data may include information about other individuals, such as other individuals who have performed the same or similar activity protocols. The data may be limited to others with similar user characteristics including, for example, gender and / or age. At block 516, the user's goal or desired performance level may be considered. For example, if the user is a high school football player who wants to play Division I University football, block 516 may use this data to provide advice. Providing data obtained from other individuals may enhance competition and / or motivation to maintain an exercise routine. Furthermore, the recommended routines can be more helpful in helping individuals reach specific goals. In certain aspects, data may be associated with identifying third party information. For example, user data may be compared with data from multiple individuals. In one aspect, local individuals having predetermined characteristics such as similar scores, subscores, performance characteristics, demographic characteristics, and combinations thereof may be identified. The user may be given an opportunity to contact other individuals directly or indirectly. This can be beneficial, for example, to motivate the user by providing competition and / or the fitness equipment 100, 301, 302 can be used together.

  As yet another exemplary aspect of the invention, one or more elements or components of a fitness or electronic device may be distributed, sold, or used as a kit. One such embodiment may include a kit that includes it.

  The kit may be associated with instructions for constructing a fitness device, including using one or more specific sensors with one or more fitness devices. Further instructions may indicate how to use one or more fitness devices during one or more activity protocols. In an aspect, instructions may be provided that display an exemplary method for generating a score using one or more fitness devices in conjunction with one or more additional electronic devices. Those skilled in the art will readily understand that any instructions need not be printed and physically present with the other components of the kit, and the instructions can be provided on a computer readable medium. Such instructions may be located on a server that the user can access. According to certain aspects, the user may be provided with information such as a link to an address on the Internet that includes instructions, which are considered to be within the scope of the instructions provided. Thus, as used herein, providing instructions is not limited to printed material that can be delivered with a fitness device.

  Although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to specific embodiments including preferred embodiments herein, those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous variations and modifications of the systems and methods described above. . Accordingly, the spirit and scope of the present invention should be construed broadly as set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (20)

A method to assess a user's ability characteristics, including the following steps:
In the system, a step of detecting a plurality of fitness devices by an electronic device, each of the plurality of fitness devices comprising one or more sensors, wherein the detected plurality of fitness devices are at least
A first fitness device that is a ball comprising one or more sensors, the one or more sensors configured to measure a first parameter associated with the user's ability characteristics At least a first sensor, wherein the first sensor is a pressure sensor, and the first parameter is a grip pressure of the one or more hands of the user in contact with the first fitness device The first fitness device,
A second fitness device comprising one or more sensors, wherein the one or more sensors includes at least a second sensor configured to measure a second parameter; A fitness device comprising the second fitness device, physically separate from the first fitness device;
Using at least one of the detected plurality of fitness devices, the sensor of the one or more sensors, at least one of the detected plurality of fitness devices meets a predetermined operational criterion And at least determining the grip pressure, measuring the second parameter, and determining that at least one of the detected plurality of fitness devices meets the predetermined operational criteria Based in part on selecting at least one of the first activity protocols of the plurality of activity protocols available for subsequent selection by a user of the electronic device by the electronic device. The method of claim 1, further comprising calculating a plurality of performance characteristics from data collected from a first fitness device and a second fitness device while the user is performing the first activity protocol. the method of.   The method of claim 2, wherein the capability characteristic is selected from the group consisting of power, agility, speed, response, agility, and combinations thereof. The timing between two user actions, the timing of a particular user action, the location of the user, the location of a fitness device of the plurality of fitness devices, the speed of the user, the fitness device of the plurality of fitness devices Speed, acceleration of the user, acceleration of a fitness device of the plurality of fitness devices, detection of at least one of the one or more sensors associated with each of the plurality of fitness devices, the plurality of Collected from the one or more sensors of the first fitness device to validate a fitness device selected from the group consisting of: Data and the one or more sets of the second fitness device. The method of claim 2, further comprising cross-referencing with data collected from the sensor. 5. The method of claim 4, further comprising calculating a score from at least a portion of the calculated ability characteristic.   The method of claim 1, wherein the first fitness device comprises a ball and the predetermined operating criteria specifies a range for at least one of weight, size, or internal pressure. The one or more sensors of the first fitness device or the one or more sensors of the second fitness device are not one of the detected fitness devices The method of claim 1, further comprising determining whether the third fitness device meets different predetermined operational criteria.   8. The method of claim 7, wherein a detected fitness device of the plurality of fitness devices comprises a mat and the third fitness device comprises footwear. Detecting pressure from the footwear using at least one of the one or more sensors of the mat; and whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point, pressure from the footwear The method of claim 8, further comprising determining based on: The detected second fitness device comprises a mat, the detected third fitness device comprises footwear, and the method comprises:
Detecting pressure from the footwear using at least one of the one or more sensors of the mat; and whether the footwear includes an unauthorized pressure point. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining based on the pressure from Determining that the at least one predetermined operating criterion is not satisfied; and disabling the function of the system in response to the determination that the at least one predetermined operating criterion is not satisfied. The method of claim 1, further comprising:   12. The method of claim 11, wherein the function includes score calculation.   The method of claim 12, wherein the function includes calculating a certification score. Determining from the plurality of detected fitness devices that at least one particular type of fitness device has not been detected by the electronic device; and
Disabling at least one function associated with the at least one particular type of fitness equipment that has not been detected in response to the determination that at least one particular type of fitness equipment has not been detected. The method of claim 1, further comprising:   15. The method of claim 14, wherein the function includes score calculation.   The method of claim 15, wherein the function includes calculating a certification score. At least one fitness device of the detected plurality of fitness devices, or the third fitness device comprises a camera, and the method comprises:
8. The method of claim 7, further comprising capturing an image using the camera; and generating a plurality of three-dimensional images of motion. a) detecting that a sensor of the one or more sensors of the detected fitness device of the plurality of fitness devices has been replaced with another sensor; and
2. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of b) selecting a second activity protocol from among a plurality of said activity protocols in response to the detection made in step a). Said step a)
19. The method of claim 18, further comprising determining that the other sensor is a different type of sensor than the one of the one or more sensors of the detected fitness device. Adjusting the function of the second fitness device based on measurements from the one or more sensors of the first fitness device or the one or more sensors of the second fitness device. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

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