Lap counter system for multiple runners

Abstract

A lap counter system for multiple runners automatically counts and times one or more runner(s) during a workout session exercise at either an indoor or outdoor running track suitable for use at a health club, school, business, government or other organization promoting physical activity to enhance the health of their members. The system includes standalone, computer controlled, end user friendly components that displays fitness statistics during the use of the running track for each runner without impeding the athletic activity with a cumbersome wearable device. The system preferably includes a display visible to the runner at one or more points around the track such as a scoreboard with the aforementioned statistics displayed providing the runner with a virtual coach.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] This invention relates to a system for counting and timing a runner on a track and, more particularly, to a system for counting and timing the laps of one or more runners on the same track without a system component impeding each individual runner or the logging of the runner's individual exercise workout session. [0002] There are a number of devices for counting and timing the laps of a runner. On personal lap counters, these devices generally fall into two different technology categories: a GPS driven device or an inertia detection device. There are significant problems and limitations with both technology categories and the respective devices used therein. First, each device shares the disadvantage of a significant investment of time to learn the operation and of money by the runner to purchase a component of these systems. [0003] Next, commercially available GPS devices are quite expensive and generally take the shape of a wristwatch or a band ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0008] It is a further object of the invention to provide a lap counter system for counting and timing a runner's laps around a track that res

Problems solved by technology

There are significant problems and limitations with both technology categories and the respective devices used therein.

First, each device shares the disadvantage of a significant investment of time to learn the operation and of money by the runner to purchase a component of these systems.

Next, commercially available GPS devices are quite expensive and generally take the shape of a wristwatch or a band attached around an arm of the runner.

GPS devices although accurate in calculation of speed and location are somewhat delicate instruments that require significant time to calibrate before they can provide reliable data to the runner.

Such devices are limited to only outdoors track where there are no overhead obstructions to impede the reception of satellite signals that often require at least three satellite captures of the signal for a proper triangulation of the runner on the ground.

On the other hand, the modern inertia detection devices are essentially more elaborate electronic versions of the classic pedometer with all of the normal problems encounter by the electronic GPS devices and yet having additional unique problems for the runner that makes inertia devices unfriendly to the end user.

If the runner changes stri

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