Athletic watch

Abstract

A device for monitoring athletic performance of a user has a wristband configured to be worn by the user. An electronic module is removably attached to the wristband. The electronic module has a controller and a screen and a plurality of user inputs operably associated with the controller.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims priority benefits based on U.S. Provisional Patent Appln. No. 61 / 172,769 filed Apr. 26, 2009 and entitled “Athletic Watch.” This earlier provisional application is entirely incorporated herein by reference. Also, aspects of this invention may be used in conjunction with the watch constructions, interface features and global positioning system features described, for example, in the following concurrently filed U.S. patent applications:[0002](a) U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ entitled “Athletic Watch” (Attorney Docket No. 005127.01487);[0003](b) U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ entitled “Athletic Watch” (Attorney Docket No. 005127.01495); and[0004](c) U.S. patent application Ser. No. ______ entitled “GPS Features And Functionality In An Athletic Watch System” (Attorney Docket No. 005127.01496).These concurrently filed U.S. patent applications are entirely incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD[0005]The presen...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007]The present invention relates to athletic performance monitoring devices and, in particular, to a watch having enhanced athletic functionality.

[0008]According to one aspect of the invention, a device for monitoring athletic performance of a user has a wristband configured to be worn by the user. An electronic module is removably attached to the wristband. The electronic module has a controller and a screen and a plurality of user inputs operably associated with the controller. In an exemplary embodiment, the user inputs are configured in a three-axis or tri-axis configuration for enhanced user operability. A first input is applied along an x-axis. A second input is applied along an y-axis. A third input is applied along a z-axis.

[0010]According to another aspect of the invention, the electronic module has a communication connector. The electronic module is configured to be plugged into a computer of a user when the electronic module is removed from the wristband. In an exemplary embodiment, the communication connector is in the form of a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. When the communication connector is inserted into the computer, athletic performance data recorded by the electronic module can be uploaded to the computer as well as a remote site accessed by the computer. The remote site may be a site dedicated to the tracking, analyzing and display of athletic performance. In a further exemplary embodiment, data from the remote site and the user's computer can be transferred to the electronic module for enhanced operability for the user.

[0012]According to another aspect of the invention, the watch has a controller and user interface having enhanced operability for the user.

[0013]According to another aspect of the invention, the watch has a GPS receiver (Global Positioning System) and antenna. The watch is configured to receive GPS signals for enhanced operability and enhanced athletic functionality.

Problems solved by technology

Such watches, however, are oftentimes not user friendly and cumbersome to use.

Consequently, the wearer may not utilize the watch to its full potential.

Such watches also have limited athletic performance monitoring capabilities.

Accordingly, while certain watches having athletic functionality provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations.

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