US20060058155A1

US20060058155A1 - System and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus

Info

Publication number: US20060058155A1
Application number: US10/939,812
Authority: US
Inventors: Harish Kumar
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2004-09-13
Filing date: 2004-09-13
Publication date: 2006-03-16

Abstract

A method that gives user/s of the exercise apparatus, a choice of exercise events that uses data generated in response to a dynamically engaging event, being performed or performed earlier on any apparatus. The participant/s have the option of participating in local, inter-group, and global exercise events. The users may have the choice of participating in exercise events, based on using raw or PAP data. From the access point, users will signup using (SAID), (FM), (ECSL); select an exercise event for competition or regular workout, using (ECES), and sampling studies, using (FELTS). The exercise data generated will be collected (DCAT), and sent for processing, analyzing and out putting, to application, database, and web servers such as LAS, LDBS, GAS, GDBS, GWS, and Server Banks. The results of the interactive exercise events will be posted at main web page and other web sites. The sampling data and other statistical data generated from the events will be shared with groups and other interested agencies.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application, Ser. No. Docket Number HK08180401, filed Aug. 24, 2004, for GLOBAL FITNESS CHALLENGE ONLINE, by Harish Kumar, included by reference herein and for which benefit of the priority date is hereby claimed.
In the previous application, the subject matter is same except it discusses lot of details about the technology and data transfer, collecting devices, and less about the type of fitness competitions, and interactive exercise events. So, we feel that we need to elaborate more on the type of competitions and the broader scope that was presented previously. We are treating this as our new application because of some new subject matter, new title, and more descriptive nature of the content in the menu of choices for different category of competitions. In the new application, there is also presentation of new material on mass sampling of exercise events, and recording cardio and other physiological changes caused by changs in the environment and varying exercise parameters.
There are some changes in the FIGS. 1 through 5 and some ornamental changes in placing some of the elements. The basic invention idea is same but with few new elements added.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a system for organizing exercise events in which participants can interact, engage, improve and compare their physical conditioning, in relation to others, using exercise data generated from a dynamic interaction with the exercise appratus or even with arcade games. In particular, this process, that can (1) provide an option of using raw exercise data or PAP data; (2) give choice of engaging in different types of individual and group exercise events; (3) provide an environment for a wide range of standard and proprietary competitions; (4) give people and groups, a choice of compairing data generated from any type of dynamic interaction, between people or between people and exercise apparatus; (5) evaluate and analyze individual and groups' physical conditioning as compared to other individuals and groups, (6) provide health care professionals and other organizations an access to a vast sampling model and resources; and (7) compare, monitor, track, measure, and record any physiological changes in the cardiovascular data, caused by variations in foods consumed before the exercise event, warm up time, warm up rate, increase or decrease of physical stresss level, and by changing the surroundings.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

People love to compete and challenge each other in every aspect of their lives. Wheather it is education, sports, or the material things we possess. We may be able to challenge ourselves physically, but until and unless we compete head on with our peers, we will not be able to enhance our performance or reach our pinnacle. Currently, there are no environments where people can go and compete against each other, or one group of people such as, students of one university, compare or compete their physical conditioning, with other group of students. There is no challenging environment where a father, mother, and children can compare their exercise data with each other, without giving any family member an advantage over the other family member.
There is no mass stastical system in place, which will let users from all over the globe, generate synchronous as well as asynchronous exercise data, for mass sampling purposes. There has been talk about effects on cardio system due to changes in diet ot other factors. No one, to our knowledge, has created an environment, where thousands and thousands of people, can participate in studying effects on the physiological aspects of our bodies by changing certain factors such as: (1) increasing body resistance after 5 minutes of warm up verses 15 minutes of warm up; (2) increasing or decreasing rate of walking/jogging speed, during the warm up phase; (3) effects of warming up for different durations, before starting a regular routine, on the heart conditioning; (4) the effect of consuming different foods on the cardio output; (5) effects of surroundings on the cardio conditioning and output, during the warm up phase, normal phase; (6) effects of exercising, at different times of the day, on individual cardio strength and output; (7) effects on individual cardio output at varying altitude and temperature levels.
To help solve these problems, we have created a challenging environment, called “Interactive X Events”, where people can sign-up to compete and analyze their cardio conditioning under different conditions and environments. Using this broad platform, from the gyms, work places, schools, offices, public agencies, and other countries, people can compete against each other, compete against other groups, or just participate in mass sampling studies conducted by any agencies such as health professionals and researchers. They can monitor their own cardio output by changing parameters as discussed above. This system will also provide a virtual environment for users to compare, compete and track their performance against their peers, groups, and other exercise enthusiasts. Besides seeing how they fair against other users, the users will be able to monitor in real time, their statistics such as: Cardio Strength, Endurance, total calories burned, calories burned per unit weight, total altitude gained, calories burned/feet of altitude climbed, distance travelled, distance travelled/unit calorie burned, heart rate, calories burned/avg heart rate, weight loss, avg heart rate/unit weight, weight lifted/unit weight, weight lifted/calorie burned, total aggregate weight moved/unit weight and lots of other possible combinations.
To our knowledge there are no products, similar to what is being, marketed or used, in this type of environment presented in this application. There are some web based applications and products which will keep track of the calories burned and other personal data. But these web based applications are just storing personal information and do not offer any real time competittive environment. There is a company called ‘bodymedia.com’ which manages the personal information but do not offer the competitive user environment as presented in this invention. As a matter of fact, we may be using some of Body Media's devices to fit into our environment.
There is another company with the patent number U.S. Pat. No. 6,749,536, exercising using a public communication network.
There is one more company with the U.S. Pat. No. 5,916,063, portable memory system and method for providing customized training program.
There is another company with U.S. Pat. No. 5,937,387 for selecting a customized wellness plan.
I have also submitted another application in this matter on Aug. 23, 2004 under a different title “Global Fitness Challenge Online,” docket number (HK08180401), and we are attaching a copy of that application. In that application, the subject matter is same except it discusses lot of details about the technology and less about the type of interactive events and fitness competitions. So, we feel that we need to elaborate more on the type of exercise events, competitions, and the mass sampling of cardio and other fitness data, and also the broader scope of the previous application that was presented previously. We are treating this as our new application because of some new subject matter, new title, and more descriptive nature of the content in the menu of choices for different category of competitions.
The above mentioned patents and other monitoring equipment available today, are not offering any exercise events, fitness challenge events based on PAP factor data, or raw exercise data. They are not presenting or offering any broader environment that specifically solves the problem, for individuals and groups, interested in competing, and comparing their physical conditioning, with other individuals and groups. The above mentioned patents do not offer any way of verification, authentication and identification of personal data. There is no competitive environment existing today, in the physical exercise competitions and comparisons, that lets people of different weights, physical dimensions, age and sex, compete with each other, bringing them to the same platform and base level. These other patents do not offer a mass sampling environment, as discussed here, and also do not offer any solution for people to monitor physiological changes caused by varying parameters and other factors, that have an effect on the cardiovascular output.
It is therefore an object of the invention to introduce a structure for interactive exercise events, fitness events, and challenging environment, refered to as ‘Interactive X events’ for the users of exercise apparatus, in a connected and unconnected format.
It is another object of the invention to present exercise events in a challenging and/or unchallenging environment, for individuals, and groups.
It is another object of the invention to offer variety of unconventional and conventional exercise events, for statistical and comparison purposes, for diverse range of people.
It is another object of the invention to offer synchronous and asynchronous exercise events globally.
It is another object of the invention to offer local, inter/intra group, and global exercise events.
It is another object of the invention to present a real-time, internet/network based comparison environment, for the users of the exercise apparatus.
It is another object of the invention to provide a global environment for organizing, synchronous and asynchronous studies, for analysing physiological changes brought on by varying exercise environment and parameters.
It is another object of the invention to share and communicate effects of environment on physiological changes.
It is another object of the invention to analyze, individual and groups cardio data, effected by, changing exercise environment and other parameters.
It is another object of the invention to provide environment for interactive exercise events based on PAP data, raw exercise data, and also provide an environment for people to monitor, and change exercise routines based on the feed back from exercise events performed previously, under different exercise parameters.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a method that gives user/s of the exercise apparatus, a choice of exercise events that uses data generated in response to a dynamically engaging event, being performed or performed earlier on any apparatus. The participant/s have the option of participating in local, inter-group, and global exercise events. The users may have the choice of participating in exercise events, based on using raw or PAP data. From the access point, users will signup using (SAID), (FM), (ECSL); select an exercise event for competition or regular workout, using (ECES), and sampling studies, using (FELTS). The exercise data generated will be collected (DCAT), and sent for processing, analyzing and out putting, to application, database, and web servers such as LAS, LDBS, GAS, GDBS, GWS, and Server Banks. The results of the interactive exercise events will be posted at main web page and other web sites. The sampling data and other statistical data generated from the events will be shared with groups and other interested agencies.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A complete understanding of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the accompanying drawings, when considered in conjunction with the subsequent, detailed description, in which:
FIG. 1 is an overall view of an environment showing one of the embodiments, for organizing and executing, interactive X events under our “Interactive X events” system, as shown here in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 2 is a local x events view of an environment showing one of the embodiments, for organizing and executing, Local X Events under our “Interactive X events,” system, as shown here in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 4 is a global x events view of an environment showing, one of the preferred embodiment, for organizing and executing, Interactive X Events under our “Interactive X events,” system, as shown here in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 5 is a sign-up logic view of an one embodiment of our “Interactive X events,” system, as shown here in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 3 is an inter/intra group x events view of an environment showing one of the embodiments of organizng and executing, Inter/Intra Group X Events under our “Interactive X events,” system, as shown here in accordance with the invention;
FIG. 6 is an unintegrated x events view of an another embodiment of organizing Unintegrated X Events under our “Interactive X events,” system, as shown here in accordance with our invention; and
FIG. 7 is an expanded view of a data transfering from ECSL to FELTS to PAP Event selector.
For purposes of clarity and brevity, like elements and components will bear the same designations and numbering throughout the FIGURES.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The “Interactive X events” 10 system is very much similar in features and functionality, as originally submitted per previous application and which was received in USPTO-Patent office, on Aug. 24, 2004, Docket Number HK08180401. The proof of this last application is enclosed.
Structurally, there are very few differences in this new application, compared to the previous application. There are few cosmetic differences and some differences in the description of some of the key elements of the drawings. Enclosed are layouts of the FIGS. 1 through 5, with very slight differences compared to the previously submitted diagrams. After submitting the first application, it was realized that I did not elaborate on couple of key elements of the invention. So it was decided to explain some of those key elements in detail. It was also realized that I needed to add few more of the elements for a clearer explaination, which is very obvious, when you look and compare to the previous drawings that were submitted.
I will be explaining in great detail the description of all new additions and if need be, I will also explain some of the affected elements and any changes in the cosmetics of the invention.
FIG. 1 is very similar to the one submitted previously with the exception of the following differences:
“Interactive X Events” 10. It is an exercise environment, where people from anywhere in the world, can participate; using exercise apparatus, arcade games, or any other similar devices capable of generating and simulating exercise events, or simulating any physical activity data. The exercise apparatus and devices, could be any gym equipment, used for workout, testing humans, or used in an environment capable of simulating human activities. Such devices may be part of rehab centers, research facilities, fitness equipment manufacturers, educational institutions, government agencies, law enforcement centers. Essentially any environment that has devices that are used for monitoring physical activity data. The apparatus could be resident in entertainment centers, casinos and any similar environments.
The exercise data, or data generated from entertaining activities, may be used for various purposes and some of these are defined in the following sections. Few of the popular uses of this system are described here, such as, compairing exercise data; gyms and similar bodies, setting up local, group, and global competitions; group competitions between similar groups and between diverse groups; sampling of exercise data, generated by the users of exercise apparatus; health care professionals, for analyzing cardio related data; institutions doing research in humans, medicines; food companies; exercise machine manufacturers; and casinos for organizing bets etc.
There are different ways of designing this system. Some of the embodiments, are shown in this application. This system may become a part and parcel of exercise machine manufacturers. The manufacturers may start to integrate, some or all of the elements in the logic of their apparatus. The apparatus manufacturers, may also start to design different type of apparatus, with intense workout after they analyze the global data generated, everyday, by the users.
For the resistance machines to work in this environment, there will be few modifications required before these machines can be used.
For this system to work in global environment efficiently, there will be very complex and data intensive hardware, software and communication devices required. But for local exercise events, this may be accomplished by using, not so powerful system.
The output of the events will depend on how and who is participating.
“FELTS” 17 module Stands for Food, Load, Time, Speed. Selecting any of these functions “FELTS” 17, the exercise data will record physiological changes that occurs in a persons heart rate and cardio output. This will facilitate mass sampling of the study groups. Under this system, there may be thousands and thousands of people from different regions, and cultures, participating in the real time, synchronous and asynchronous, studies. This will provide tremendous benefits to the research groups, study groups and health care professionals. There could be sampling taken on a daily basis, and the exercise data and cardio data generated of thousands of individuals and groups, will contribute to a better understanding of how the cardio functioning is affected by changes and also, within different cultures, these parameter changes will give a better understanding for the medical community. There may be research done on various blood groups and seeing how these blood groups respond to the environment and parameter changes. There may be thousands of ways these parameters can be changed and different type of studies can be conducted, using different people, foods, environment, altitude, intensity, time of the day, seasons, and numerous possible ways. All these parameters are user definable and based on personal preference of the researchers, individuals, and groups conducting studies for statistical analysis or other useful ways.
F, is the food related parameter, this will record changes caused by consumming different type of foods, such as high carb, high fat, high protein diets before commencing any exercise activity. There may be variations among the the type of foods consummed such as an example, a high carbo diet, may substitute from pure carbonated beverages to fruit juices, and measure differences in the cardio output and conditioning.
E, is the exercise related parameter. the function of this parameter is to monitor and record any cardio changes, caused by varying, the frequency of exercise, of the participant. As an example, participant A may exercise daily for certain duration of time and number of days, and then stopping for a
L, is the load parameter, this will record changes to the cardio functioning based on physical stress exerted on the person. This could be a simple load the individual is carrying or the load could be in the form of climbing up hill on a treadmill, or climbing stairs. The purpose of this load is to record how the cardio condition is effected, if the load is put on the warm up phase after 5 minutes or load is exerted after 15 minutes. These intervals can be changed on a daily basis or changed based on other factors or study groups.
T, is the time study parameter. This will aloow people to do warm ups for different intervals, and see its effect on the cardio functioning and cardio output during a normal workout or exercise session. Warm up time may be any duration of time, depending on the individual and the groups. Users may also see the cardio results, by doing warm up and workouts during different times of the day, or season.
S, is the speed parameter. This will allow people to warm up at different rate of speeds to see its effects on the cardio conditioning and output during the normal workouts.
As an example, someone can warm up at 2 miles/hour for 5 minutes at zero incline with empty stomach, before starting a normal workout session at 5 miles per hour and record cardio output data. Then next day at the same time, perform 10 minutes of warm up at 2 miles per hour, at zero incline and empty stomach, before starting a normal workout session and then record the cardio output data. So the user can continue experimenting changing all the parameters and see how it effected its cardio functioning.
One can see there are numerous possibilities of selecting different parameters, there can be very interesting outcome after all kinds of studies or exercises are performed using these type of parameters
One can organize exercise events, comparisons, and competitions using any of the parameter settings, or a combination of parameter settings. As an example, an competition event may be organized for all the firemen living in a city A. The “FELTS” 17, parameters for the competition event, may be defined as No food, Incline of 15 on a treadmill, warm up time of 5 minutes at a speed of 3 miles/hour.
“ECSL Module” 23: Stands for Exercise Comparison Selector Logic. This module will allow users to make a decision between, doing a “workout” 71, verses doing a “comparison” 18 or “competition” 16 workout. What ever user decides to do, a normal workout session or a competition, this information will be communicated to the other components of this system. This module may be an integral part of “SAID Module” 22 or other modules of this Interactive X events system.
“PAP Event Selector” 14: This module will allow the user to choose between our proprietary “PAP Data” 72 based exercise events or events based on “raw data” 73. There may be different ways of deriving PAP data. For people of different weights, participating in same exercise events, the raw data will be divided by the weight of the person. In certain cases, the raw exercise data will be divided by ‘group weight’ of the group, if event is based on a collective group effort, such as, cardio strength of a group of firemen verses another group of firemen. In some events, the raw data may be divided by other physical characteristics of the individuals or groups.
This device may be an integral part of any of the components of Interactive X events system. It may also be a separate device residing in the gym and communicating with other components and modules discussed here.
“ECES Selector Module” 25: Stands for Exercise and Challenge Event Selector. Users can make a selection for the type of comparison, competition, and standard exercise they want to participate in. Based on PAP data and raw data, there are hundreds of exercise options that are available to participants. Some of the choices available to the participants will depend on the entity and groups that are organizing these events. Some of the numerous combinations of events and exercises based on PAP Factor Data and Raw data are described below.
A Calories burned/pound of body weight (30 min workout)
B Calories burned/minute (30 min workout)
C Calories burned/avg heart beat (30 min workout)
D Avg. Heart beat/(A) (30 min workout)
E Total Heart Beat/pound of body weight (30 min workout)
F Heart Beat/Calorie burned
G Total heart beats (30 min workout)
H Total Calories burned/feet climbed (60 minute)
I Calories burned/distance traveled (60 minute)
J Total calories burned (30 minutes)
K Total Distance travelled (30 minutes)
L Cardio Strength (5 minute) Weight/Avg heart beat
M Cardio Endurance (30 min) Weight/Avg Heart Beat
N Muscle Strength Max Weight lifted/pound of body weight (Biceps Class)
O Endurance Total Weight lifted/pound of body weight (Biceps Class)
P Most Improved in Cardio Strength
Q Most Improved in Cardio Endurance
R Overall Dramatic Improvement
S Weakening Cardio Strength Class
T Most consistent performer in Calories burned class (30 days), (90 Days), (One Year)
U Calories Burned/Pound of body weight (30 days), (90 Days), (One Year)
V Calories Burned/minute of avg heart beat, 30 min class (30 days), (90 Days), (One Year)
W Distance Travelled/pound of body weight (30 min) (30 days), (90 Days), (One Year)
X Distance Walked/Avg. Heart Beat (30 min)
Y Fastest Speed/pound of body weight (30 min)
Z Stairs climbed X pound of weight (30 min)
AA Group Cardio Endurance
BB Group Cardio Strength
As can be seen, there are numerous combination of exercise classes that can be introduced. Some of the individual gyms may prefer one group of exercises over other groups. Some groups may want to compare and compete in events that suit their professional needs.
Some groups, such as firemen, may organize competitions within their own groups, to test the skills needed in their profession. And there are numerous professional groups, bodies, and affiliations, that may conduct events, based on their needs.
“ECES Selector Module” 25, may be a separate physical unit or an integral part of one of the components of Interactive X events system, such as “FM” 24, or may reside in a combination of different components and other modules of this system.
“Data Link” 11 module is a device communicating data with the program logic of the exercise system and “FM” 24 and other communicating devices. The overall diagram shows, in one of the embodiments how different sections of the Interactive X events system are working together. “Access Point” 12, “Internet/Widenet” 13, “Infrastructure” 15, “Local Events” 21, and “Group Events” 34.
Other components of the FIG. 1 are same as in previously submitted application.
A letter ‘X’ where ever mentioned, means exercise.
“SAID Module” 22, It is similar in functionality to the SAIL module of the previous application, that was shown in the FIG. 2 of previous application. This module will perform signing-up function for the users so that they can participate in the
Interactive X events events. During the signing-up process, it will verify and authenticate users data and identity. This device may be integrated into “ECSL Module” 23, “ECES Selector Module” 25, “DCAT” 26, “FM” 24 or sit as a separate device in the Gym. Certain locations may employ physical means to perform “SAID Module” 22 functions. There are different technologies available that can be used to make these “SAID” devices, e.g. using wireless, smart cards, barcode, flash memory cards, blueberry, bluetooth, bio-metric, radio, java based such as J2ME or similar platforms. Unless the user has clearance from the “SAID”, the person will not be allowed to access Interactive X events system. This unit will send a logical ‘yes’ or some id number, as an affirmative signal to the fitness machines or other data modules modules, then only the user will be able to log in and participate.
The “Client Sign-up Logic” 50 50 as shown in FIG. 5, is also part of “SAID” module. This is one of the many ways this sign-up logic can be performed. This logic will be part of any of the sign-up modules and devices such as “ECSL Module” 23, “ECES Selector Module” 25, “DCAT” 26, or “FM” 24.
FIG. 2 is similar in functionality but with few differences in the way data is communicated and routed. In the previous application, the data was going from SAIL module to fitness machines/DCAT module. And then it was sent to the “LAS” 27
In the new FIG. 2, there is an access point added in the figure, it's just a cosmetic change. The ‘SAIL’ module is now being referred to as “SAID Module” 22, again a cosmetic change. The “MODE” 29 module is being referred to as “MODE” 29, again just a cosmetic change.
There are two new modules “ECSL Module” 23, and “ECES Selector Module” 25. The function of these is explained in the previous paragraph of this application. The need to add these modules are based on the fact that in the previous application, the key function of this invention was not properly explained in layman's terms. It was assumed that may be, it doesn't need to be explained as it was going to be the part of “SAIL” and Local Application Server Logic. But after thinking, it was decided that this needs to be explained in more detail. So, to explain it better, it is felt that this needs to be broken into two different modules for giving more logical steps and explaining.
As explained in earlier, these “ECSL Module” 23, and “ECES Selector Module” 25 modules, may be an integrated into fitness machines, or other components of this exercise system, as it was explained in our previous application.
“SAID Module” 22 has the same functionality of ‘SAIL’ as in the previous application. Instead of ‘SAIL’ communicating with “FM” 24 and “DCAT” 26 modules, “SAID Module” 22 now communicates with “ECSL Module” 23, “FM” 24, “ECES Selector Module” 25, and “DCAT” 26 modules. The rest of the communications are same as explained in the previous application.
The Client Sign-up Logic as shown in FIG. 5, is also part of FIG. 2. This is one of the many ways this sign-up logic can be performed. This logic will be part of any of the sign-up modules and devices such as “SAID Module” 22, “DCAT” 26, “ECSL Module” 23, “ECES Selector Module” 25 or “FM” 24.
“FM” 24 is same as described in previous application except now it communicates with two more modules “ECES Selector Module” 25, “ECSL Module” 23, and “SAID Module” 22 instead of SAIL’ devices. Rest of the functionality is same as explained in the previous application.
In the previous application “DCAT” 26 module was communicating with “FM” 24, ‘SAIL’, and “LAS” 27, and now in the new application, it is communicating with “FM” 24, “ECES Selector Module” 25, “ECSL Module” 23, “SAID” and “LAS” 27 modules instead. So, where ever it mentions “FM” 24, “SAIL” and “LAS” 27, now it means “FM” 24, “SAID”, “ECSL module’, “ECES Selector Module” 25 and “LAS” 27 modules. Every other function is same as in previous application.
The “LAS” 27, main difference between the previous and new application is, that instead of communicating data with ‘FM and DCAT modules’, now it communicates data with ‘FM, ECSL, ECES, SAID, and DCAT modules’. Also, instead of communicating data with ‘LDL’, now it is communicating with ‘MODE”. These are just the cosmetic differences.
Also where it refers to communicating with ‘“FM” and “DCAT”’ and SAIL, now it communicates with “FM” 24 24, “ECES Selector Module” 25 25, “DCAT”’ and ‘“SAID”, “ECSLmodule”’ modules.
“LDBS” 28, same functionality as in the previous application.
MODE, is a display used for displaying information within our Interactive X events system. Same functionality as ‘LDL’ mentioned in the previous application.
FIG. 3 is a typical Inter/Intra “Group X Events” 30 environment. In the previous application the functionality of various components was discussed. But in this new application, the various group formations are shown. Other then this, there is no difference between the previous and new application. There are some cosmetic differences, instead of ‘LDL Displays’, now it is called “GOD” 38 devices. Also, instead of showing local application and web server as one unit, in the new application, it is shown as two separate units with same functionality. The functionality of “GWS” 35, “GAS” 36, and “GDBS” 37 is same as mentioned in previous application.
We are showing as an example of a “Group of Firemen” city A as part of a bigger group of “Group of Firemen” 39 in a state A′. Also shown are “Group of UC Davis students' as part of a bigger group of “Group of UC in California” 31. The meaning of groups is very flexible and it can be a collection of people working in the same industry, public safety offices, universities, state employees, law enforcement agencies, countries, group of countries, continental groups, just to name a few. These group formations are user definable and flexible.
The groups can organize their own events as it suits them. There is no guidelines as which type of exercise events that can be defined and organized. In the FIG. 3, all the groups shown are just to give an example. The groups may use the events as organized by the Interactive X events, or the events may be customized for them, for their particular groups and requirements.
“GWS” 35, and “Web Site” 19, will have information of all the events. It will allow users, groups to have links to their own web sites. The Interactive X events system will also custom built sites for the groups, so that the web site displays custom information as required by these individual groups.
FIG. 4 is a Global Network of a typical integrated environment of our “Interactive X events” 10. The functionality of this is similar to what was presented in the previous application. The FIG. 4, even though looks different, is accomplishing same functions. Most of the differences are cosmetic, such as a new description of “Server Banks” 44, also a “Main Web Page” 46, and output devices are called “GOD” 38 instead of ‘GDL” in the previous application.
The new FIG. 4, one of the embodiments, focuses more on how the various “global x events” and Local X Events 20, function in “Global Environment” 42, connecting countries, and continental events. These “global X events” may be organized by anyone who is interested or any of the professional organizations and bodies. The “Global X Event” 40 may be custom events as requested by certain organizations or may be one of the Interactive X events regularly scheduled events.
FIG. 5 is same functionality as per the previous application with a slight difference in the logic.
FIG. 6 is same as in previously submitted application, showing one of the embodiments of “Unintegrated” 60 setup, with certain components such as “Data Module” 61 and “Computational Device” 62
FIG. 7 is expanded view of the data path between “ECSL module” 23, “FELTS” 17, “PAP Event Selector” 14. It lets you select between “PAP Data” 72 and “Raw Data” 73. This decision module may be integrated into one or more modules, with built in logic for all “SAID”, “ECSL Module” 23, “FM” 24, and “ECES Selector Module” 25. This module is part of all the figures from 1 through 6, implicidely, wheather mentioned or not.
All the figures, may not show certain control modules, as in FIG. 1, “PAP Events Selector” is not shown but it is an integral part of the system; in FIG. 3 & FIG. 4, there is more emphasis on showing different groups participation, but part of the exercise event logic is same as shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a building block for all of the figures, except FIG. 7. Also added is a FIG. 3 a for illustration purposes.
In all of the application, exercise means any user working out on any of the exercise or fitness machines and producing cardio-vascular data, work-out data such as pulse, calories burned, distance walked, weight lifted, stairs climbed, weight moved or lifted, using resistance machines, or any future generation exercise machines capable of newer exercise routines such as jumping, boxing, pedalling, bicycling, rowing, pushing, pulling, sliding, and swinging etc.
Data refers to personal data and/or exercise data, work out data.
X refers to exercise, and workout.
Event refers to any exercise event, exercise competition,
Exercise event refers to any workout done on exercise apparatus
Exercise Machine refers to exercise apparatus
Exercise data refers to data generated by the user, while working or worked on the exercise apparatus
Interactive x events, refer to all events mentioned here or otherwise.
Since other modifications and changes varied to fit particular operating requirements and environments will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the invention is not considered limited to the example chosen for purposes of disclosure, and covers all changes and modifications which do not constitute departures from the true spirit and scope of this invention.
Having thus described the invention, what is desired to be protected by Letters Patent is presented in the subsequently appended claims.

Claims

1. A system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus for facilititating and motivating people, to participate in interactive exercise events, using exercise apparatus comprising:

means for organizing global interactive exercise events;

means for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions;

means for users to be able to participate in data comparison function;

means for allowing user/s to participate in exercise competition/s, using exercise apparatus data;

means for allowing user/s to participate in workout session, using exercise apparatus;

means for allowing user/s to choose between “pap data” based events and “raw data based” events;

means for user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “pap data”;

means for allowing user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “raw data”;

means for letting user/s to participate in exercise events using exercise apparatus;

means for finding corelation between cardiovascular data generated by participant/s by changing certain parameters;

means for user/s to participate in local events organized by local entities, under interactive x events;

means for allowing group/s to participate, in events organized under interactive x events system;

means for participant/s to sign-up for exercise apparatus based events, as shown in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 5, to said means for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions;

means for allowing local entities to offer local exercise events as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 2;

means for a sign up process for participant/s of exercise events, on exercise apparatus, to said means for participant/s to sign-up for exercise apparatus based events, as shown in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 5, and to said means for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions;

means for executing programming logic and processing exercise data, shown as in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 2, to said means for letting user/s to participate in exercise events using exercise apparatus, and to said means for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions;

means for providing and storing user, and exercise data, logically connected to said means for executing programming logic and processing exercise data, shown as in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 2;

means for organizing group x events between groups, as shown here in one of the embodiments in FIG. 3;

means for executing program logic and processing exercise data;

means for storing and providing user information and exercise data, as shown here in one of the configurations of interactive x events, logically connected to said means for executing program logic and processing exercise data;

means for providing a web environment for interactive x events, as shown in FIG. 3, logically connected to said means for storing and providing user information and exercise data, as shown here in one of the configurations of interactive x events, and logically connected to said means for executing program logic and processing exercise data;

means for user/s to be able to participate in global x events, as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 4;

means for processing, storing data, generated under interactive x events as shown here in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 4;

means for allowing users access to the interactive x events and data, over the internet, logically connected to said means for processing, storing data, generated under interactive x events as shown here in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 4;

means for allowing user/s, in an unconnected environment, to participate in interactive x events;

means for porting interactive x events data from stand alone exercise apparatus;

means for processing interactive x event data, generated by stand alone exercise apparatus;

means for allowing user/s from any location to participate in interactive x events; and

means for allowing user/s to look at the output of interactive x events, connected to said means for allowing users access to the interactive x events and data, over the internet.

2. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for organizing global interactive exercise events comprises a “interactive x events”.

3. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions comprises a “ecsl module”.

4. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for users to be able to participate in data comparison function comprises a “comparison”.

5. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s to participate in exercise competition/s, using exercise apparatus data comprises a “competition”.

6. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s to participate in workout session, using exercise apparatus comprises a “workout”.

7. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s to choose between “pap data” based events and “raw data based” events, comprises a “pap event selector”.

8. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “pap data” comprises a “pap data”.

9. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “raw data” comprises a “raw data”.

10. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for letting user/s to participate in exercise events using exercise apparatus comprises a “eces selector module”.

11. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for finding corelation between cardio-vascular data generated by participant/s by changing certain parameters comprises a “felts”.

12. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for user/s to participate in local events organized by local entities, under interactive x events comprises a “local events”.

13. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing group/s to participate, in events organized under interactive x events system comprises a “group events”.

14. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for participant/s to sign-up for exercise apparatus based events, as shown in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 5 comprises a “client sign-up logic”.

15. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing local entities to offer local exercise events as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 2, comprises a local x events.

16. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for a sign up process for participant/s of exercise events, on exercise apparatus comprises a “said module”.

17. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for executing programming logic and processing exercise data, shown as in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 2 comprises a “las”.

18. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for providing and storing user, and exercise data comprises a “ldbs”.

19. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for organizing group x events between groups, as shown here in one of the embodiments in FIG. 3 comprises a “group x events”.

20. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for executing program logic and processing exercise data comprises a “gas”.

21. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for storing and providing user information and exercise data, as shown here in one of the configurations of interactive x events comprises a “gdbs”.

22. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for providing a web environment for interactive x events, as shown in FIG. 3 comprises a “gws”.

23. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for user/s to be able to participate in global x events, as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 4 comprises a “global x event”.

24. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for processing, storing data, generated under interactive x events as shown here in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 4 comprises a “server banks”.

25. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing users access to the interactive x events and data, over the internet, comprises a “web site”.

26. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s, in an unconnected environment, to participate in interactive x events comprises a “unintegrated”.

27. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for porting interactive x events data from stand alone exercise apparatus comprises a “data module”.

28. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for processing interactive x event data, generated by stand alone exercise apparatus comprises a “computational device”.

29. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s from any location to participate in interactive x events comprises a “global environment”.

30. The system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus in accordance with claim 1, wherein said means for allowing user/s to look at the output of interactive x events comprises a “main web page”.

31. A system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus for facilititating and motivating people, to participate in interactive exercise events, using exercise apparatus comprising:

a “interactive x events”, for organizing global interactive exercise events;

a “ecsl module”, for allowing users to choose different exercise functions, such as exercise data comparison, competition, workout session, and participation in exercise data sampling sessions;

a “comparison”, for users to be able to participate in data comparison function;

a “competition”, for allowing user/s to participate in exercise competition/s, using exercise apparatus data;

a “workout”, for allowing user/s to participate in workout session, using exercise apparatus;

a “pap event selector”, for allowing user/s to choose between “pap data” based events and “raw data based” events;

a “pap data”, for user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “pap data”;

a “raw data”, for allowing user/s to participate in exercise apparatus based events, using “raw data”;

a “eces selector module”, for letting user/s to participate in exercise events using exercise apparatus;

a “felts”, for finding corelation between cardiovascular data generated by participant/s by changing certain parameters;

a “local events”, for user/s to participate in local events organized by local entities, under interactive x events;

a “group events”, for allowing group/s to participate, in events organized under interactive x events system;

a “client sign-up logic”, for participant/s to sign-up for exercise apparatus based events, as shown in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 5, to said “ECSL Module”;

a local x events, for allowing local entities to offer local exercise events as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 2;

a “said module”, for a sign up process for participant/s of exercise events, on exercise apparatus, to said “Client Sign-up Logic”, and to said “ECSL Module”;

a “las”, for executing programming logic and processing exercise data, shown as in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 2, to said “ECES Selector Module”, and to said “ECSL Module”;

a “ldbs”, for providing and storing user, and exercise data, logically connected to said “LAS”;

a “group x events”, for organizing group x events between groups, as shown here in one of the embodiments in FIG. 3;

a “gas”, for executing program logic and processing exercise data;

a “gdbs”, for storing and providing user information and exercise data, as shown here in one of the configurations of interactive x events, logically connected to said “GAS”;

a “gws”, for providing a web environment for interactive x events, as shown in FIG. 3, logically connected to said “GDBS”, and logically connected to said “GAS”;

a “global x event”, for user/s to be able to participate in global x events, as shown in one of the embodiments in FIG. 4;

a “server banks”, for processing, storing data, generated under interactive x events as shown here in one of the embodiments, in FIG. 4;

a “web site”, for allowing users access to the interactive x events and data, over the internet, logically connected to said “Server Banks”;

a “unintegrated”, for allowing user/s, in an unconnected environment, to participate in interactive x events;

a “data module”, for porting interactive x events data from stand alone exercise apparatus;

a “computational device”, for processing interactive x event data, generated by stand alone exercise apparatus;

a “global environment”, for allowing user/s from any location to participate in interactive x events; and

a “main web page”, for allowing user/s to look at the output of interactive x events, connected to said “Web Site”.

32. A system and a method for providing an environment for organizing interactive x events for users of exercise apparatus for facilititating and motivating people, to participate in interactive exercise events, using exercise apparatus comprising:

a “gas”, for executing program logic and processing exercise data;