Sports equipment and application system and application method thereof

Abstract

The invention relates to an application system of sports equipment, which comprises at least one file server and at least one sports equipment, and the file server can transmit data of a scheduled media file to the scheduled sports equipment through a computer network at scheduled time. Each sports apparatus can write the received data into an exclusive non-volatile storage device so as to supplement or replace the media file stored in the storage device; each sports apparatus is provided with an image display device which can display an archive display picture to display a representative image of a media archive which can be selected and executed by a user, and the representative image of the media archive recommended at the time can be displayed in a relatively prominent mode. The media archives recommended at the present time are picked out from the media archives stored in the storage device according to a predetermined method and are replaced regularly.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to sports equipment, and in particular to a sports equipment that can guide users to exercise using videos, as well as its application system and application method. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, a trend has emerged in the sports and fitness industry that uses specially made videos to guide users to exercise on exercise equipment such as treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines. The videos may feature an instructor using the equipment while verbally encouraging others to imitate their exercise routine, or they may be pre-recorded footage of someone running outdoors following an instructor, or even just real outdoor scenes moving forward without an instructor. The supply and demand of the aforementioned applications have formed a business model. The entire ecosystem includes sports equipment manufacturers, media content providers (who produced the aforementioned videos), sports venue operators, and end consumers or sports equipment users. The typical operation is roughly as follows: qualified sports equipment is equipped with image display devices and sound playback devices, and can form a data transmission connection with a specific file server via a computer network. Users can browse the representative image (thumbnail) and basic information of the media files provided by the file server through a file display screen on the image display device. After selecting the media file to be executed, the file server will send the audio and video data of the specified media file to the sports equipment in a streaming manner. At the same time, the sports equipment will immediately play the continuously received audio and video data in a streaming manner until the video ends or is stopped. It is basically similar to the "video on demand" service provided by streaming media providers such as Netflix. Subscribers can freely select and watch various audio and video content on TV or computer.

[0003] As we all know, the operation of streaming media (especially today's high-definition videos) requires not only certain software and hardware conditions at the playback end, but also a high-speed and stable network data transmission environment. Conversely, if the maximum bandwidth of the downlink channel from the computer network to the exercise equipment is insufficient, or if the bandwidth is large enough but the actual data transmission rate is reduced or unstable due to network problems such as peak network traffic periods, the streaming media playback may experience stuttering, freezing, reduced resolution, or reduced frame rate, seriously affecting the user experience. Therefore, in order to accommodate dozens or even hundreds of people simultaneously using exercise equipment to watch different streaming media, sports venues such as gyms or community sports centers must first invest in setting up a high-quality network data transmission environment (including external network and internal LAN), and continuously pay high network leased line fees and data transmission fees to Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Even so, when encountering abnormal network congestion or when the file server service is fully loaded, the streaming media playback on the sports equipment in the sports venue may still experience stuttering or freezing.

[0004] On the other hand, although media content providers may release new videos for various sports equipment regularly or irregularly, the content of the archives displayed on the same sports equipment is usually unchanged until the next update (which may take several weeks to months), lacking freshness and potentially causing users to gradually lose interest and attention.

[0005] That said, many sports equipment still lack video display devices (instead, they only have dot matrix displays that can display characters or symbols), or they do not have the function of connecting to the Internet and playing streaming media, so the above methods cannot be used to guide users to exercise. Summary of the Invention

[0006] To address the aforementioned problems, one of the main objectives of this invention is to provide an application system for exercise equipment. Even if the exercise equipment in this system does not have the function of playing streaming media, users can easily and quickly start watching videos that guide them in using the exercise equipment. Moreover, the videos provided can maintain a sense of novelty, thereby promoting and sustaining the user's willingness to use the equipment.

[0007] One of the objectives of this invention is to provide a method for using exercise equipment that allows users to start watching videos that guide them in using the equipment through a simple and quick process, and the videos provided can maintain a sense of novelty, thereby promoting and sustaining the user's willingness to use the equipment.

[0008] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention provides an application system for sports equipment, characterized by comprising: a server connected to a computer network, managing a certain number of media files and at least one webpage file; each media file having data corresponding to audio-visual content, the audio-visual content being used to guide a user of a sports equipment to exercise using the sports equipment for a predetermined duration; each webpage file constituting a login webpage, each login webpage providing one or more video options, each video option being able to connect to a non-fixed media file automatically selected from the certain number of media files; the audio-visual content of the media files to which all video options are connected on the same login webpage can guide users of the same predetermined type of sports equipment to exercise using the sports equipment; at least one sports equipment, each sports equipment having a machine-readable code affixed to a user-visible portion, the machine-readable code carrying information containing a predetermined URL, the predetermined URL being able to be redirected to a specific login webpage, any video option on the login webpage being connected to... The audio and video content of the received media files can guide the user of the exercise equipment to exercise using the equipment; a user device, carried by the user of the exercise equipment, has a processor, a user control interface, a wireless network interface, an image capturing device, an image display device, and an audio playback device; the user device is configured to: when the image capturing device captures a machine-readable code on the exercise equipment, the processor can decode the predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code, and then connect to the computer network through the wireless network interface, access the login webpage redirected by the predetermined URL through the server, and control the image display device to display the content of the login webpage; when the processor receives a command from the user control interface to play the audio and video content of the media file connected to a video option, the processor will request the data of the audio and video content of the media file from the server, and control the image display device and the audio playback device to play the audio and video content of the media file in a streaming media manner.

[0009] In the above-described technical solution of the present invention, the media file linked to at least one of the video options in at least one of the login webpages is randomly selected from a certain number of media files and changed periodically.

[0010] All media files that can guide users of the same type of exercise equipment to exercise with the exercise equipment will be further divided into multiple categories according to the guidance method, exercise theme, training parts or duration of each media file; at least one of the login web pages provides multiple video options, wherein different video options will be linked to media files belonging to different categories.

[0011] At least one of the exercise equipment is a treadmill, stationary bike, elliptical trainer, or stair climber, and the predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code attached to it is directed to a landing page that provides multiple video options, wherein the audio-visual content of the media file linked to by one of the video options is an exercise class in which an instructor exercises using the same type of exercise equipment while verbally encouraging others to imitate his exercise, and the audio-visual content of the media file linked to by another video option is a continuously moving outdoor scene.

[0012] At least one of the exercise devices is a weight training machine that can train multiple body parts or muscle groups, and the predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code attached to it is directed to a login webpage that provides multiple video options, wherein the audio-visual content of the media files linked to the different video options is used to guide the user of the exercise device to train different body parts or muscle groups using the exercise device.

[0013] Each media file also has data corresponding to a title and data corresponding to a representative image. The title records brief information about the media file, and the representative image represents the audio-visual content of the media file in a representative image. After the user device displays the content of the login webpage on the image display device, and before the user device can receive a command instructing the playback of the audio-visual content of the media file connected to the video option, the image display device displays the title and the representative image corresponding to the media file.

[0014] The user device can store small text files corresponding to each of the login web pages; at least one of the login web pages will adjust its web page content or response based on the information in the small text files stored by the user device.

[0015] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides another technical solution: an application system for sports equipment, characterized in that it comprises: a server connected to a computer network, managing a certain number of media files and multiple web page files; each media file has data corresponding to audio-visual content, the audio-visual content being used to guide a user of the sports equipment to perform exercise for a predetermined duration; each web page file can constitute a login webpage, wherein one web page file constitutes a first login webpage, another web page file constitutes a second login webpage, each login webpage providing one or more video options, each video option being automatically selected from the certain number of media files. The media file is not fixed; the audio-visual content of the media file linked to by all the video options on the same login webpage can guide users of the same predetermined type of exercise equipment to use the exercise equipment for exercise; multiple exercise equipment, including at least one first type of exercise equipment and at least one second type of exercise equipment; each first type of exercise equipment has a first machine-readable code attached to a user-visible part, the information carried by the first machine-readable code contains a first predetermined URL, the first predetermined URL can be redirected to the first login webpage, and the audio-visual content of the media file linked to by any of the video options on the first login webpage can guide users of the first type of exercise equipment to use the first... The second type of exercise equipment is used for exercise; each piece of the second type of exercise equipment has a second machine-readable code on a user-visible part, the second machine-readable code carrying information containing a second predetermined URL, the second predetermined URL can be redirected to a second login webpage, the audio and video content of the media file linked by any of the video options in the second login webpage can guide the user of the second type of exercise equipment to use the second type of exercise equipment for exercise; a user device, carried by the user of the exercise equipment, has a processor, a user control interface, a wireless network interface, an image capturing device, an image display device, and a sound playback device; the user device is configured to: when using the image capturing device... When the device captures the machine-readable code on the aforementioned sports equipment, the processor can decode the predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code, and then connect to the computer network through the wireless network interface. It then accesses the login webpage redirected by the predetermined URL via the server, thereby controlling the image display device to display the content of the login webpage. When the processor receives a command from the user control interface instructing it to play the audio-visual content of a media file linked to a video option, the processor requests the audio-visual content data of the media file from the server and controls the image display device and the sound playback device to play the audio-visual content of the media file using streaming media.

[0016] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a method for using exercise equipment, characterized by comprising: a user of the exercise equipment using an image capturing device of a user device to capture a machine-readable code on the exercise equipment; the user device connecting to a computer network via a wireless network interface and accessing a login webpage redirected by a predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code; an image display device of the user device displaying the content of the login webpage, including one or more video options, each video option being able to connect to a non-fixed media file automatically selected from a certain number of media files; the audio-visual content of the media file connected to any video option in the login webpage guiding the user of the exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined duration; the user instructing the user device to play the audio-visual content of the media file connected to a video option in the login webpage; the user device playing the audio-visual content of the media file specified by the user in a streaming media manner; and the user using the exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined duration as guided by the audio-visual content during the playback of the audio-visual content.

[0017] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention also provides a method for using sports equipment, allowing a user to sequentially use multiple pieces of sports equipment to perform a series of exercises. The method comprises: the user using an image capturing device of a user device to capture a first machine-readable code on a first type of sports equipment; the user device connecting to a computer network via a wireless network interface and accessing a first login webpage redirected by a first predetermined URL contained in the first machine-readable code; the user device displaying the content of the first login webpage, including one or more video options, each video option being able to connect to a non-fixed first type of media file automatically selected from a certain number of first type media files; the audio-visual content of the first type of media file connected to any video option on the first login webpage guiding the user of the first type of sports equipment to perform exercises of a predetermined duration using the first type of sports equipment; the user instructing the playback of the audio-visual content of the first type of media file connected to a video option on the first login webpage via the user device; the user device playing the audio-visual content of the first type of media file specified by the user in a streaming media manner; and the user following the instructions of the user device during the playback of the audio-visual content of the first type of media file. Guided by the audio-visual content, the user uses the first type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined duration. The user captures a second machine-readable code on a second type of exercise equipment using the image capturing device of the user device. The user device connects to the computer network through the wireless network interface and accesses a second login webpage redirected by a second predetermined URL contained in the second machine-readable code. The image display device of the user device displays the content of the second login webpage, which includes one or more video options, each of which can be linked to a non-fixed second type of media file automatically selected from a certain number of second type media files. The audio-visual content of the second type of media file linked to by any of the video options in the second login webpage can guide the user of the second type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined duration. The user instructs the playback of the audio-visual content of the second type of media file linked to by a video option in the second login webpage through the user device. The user device plays the audio-visual content of the second type of media file specified by the user in a streaming media manner. During the playback of the audio-visual content of the second type of media file by the user device, the user exercises for a predetermined duration using the second type of exercise equipment as guided by the audio-visual content.

[0018] Therefore, users of the exercise equipment in this invention can use their personal portable devices (such as smartphones, tablets, etc.) to access a preset webpage by scanning the machine-readable code (such as a QR code) on the exercise equipment. They can then quickly start watching videos that guide them in using the aforementioned exercise equipment. Moreover, the videos provided can be kept fresh, which can promote and maintain the user's willingness to use the equipment.

[0019] Another objective of this invention is to provide an application system for sports equipment that can provide users of sports equipment with selectable videos, and the playback of the aforementioned videos will not be affected by data transmission problems of computer networks, thus improving the user experience.

[0020] Another objective of this invention is to provide an application system for sports equipment that can provide users of the sports equipment with videos that can be played on demand. Moreover, especially for sports venues with a large number of sports equipment that can be used by a large number of users at the same time, the overall equipment costs and network fees are relatively low.

[0021] Another object of the present invention is to provide an application system for sports equipment that can provide users of sports equipment with selectable videos, and the selection of videos presented to users can keep them fresh, thereby promoting and maintaining the user's willingness to use the equipment.

[0022] Another objective of this invention is to provide a sports device that can provide users with selectable videos, and the playback of the aforementioned videos will not be affected by network data transmission issues, thus improving the smoothness or reducing the audio-visual quality and providing a better user experience. In addition, the selection of videos presented to the user can maintain a sense of novelty, thereby promoting and sustaining the user's willingness to use the device.

[0023] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, the provided sports equipment application system includes: at least one file server managing a certain number of media files, each of the aforementioned media files having data corresponding to a video content, an audio content, and a representative image; at least one sports device, each of the aforementioned sports devices having a movement mechanism, an image display device, a sound playback device, an instruction device, a data transmission interface, and a processing unit, wherein the aforementioned movement mechanism allows a user to exercise, the aforementioned image display device can display images for the aforementioned user to view, the aforementioned sound playback device can play sounds for the aforementioned user to listen to, the aforementioned instruction device allows the aforementioned user to issue instructions, the aforementioned data transmission interface can form a data transmission connection with the aforementioned file server via a computer network, the aforementioned processing unit can process instructions received by the aforementioned instruction device and data received by the aforementioned data transmission interface, and control the images displayed by the aforementioned image display device and the sounds played by the aforementioned sound playback device; the aforementioned processing unit can control the aforementioned image display device to display a file display screen, wherein representative images of the aforementioned media files that the aforementioned user can select and execute are displayed; characterized in that: each of the aforementioned sports devices has A non-volatile storage device is provided, which can store multiple media files. A file server, according to a file delivery plan, transmits the data of the scheduled media files via a computer network to the data transmission interface of the scheduled sports equipment at a predetermined time. The processing unit of each sports equipment can write the data of the media files received from the data transmission interface into the storage device to supplement or replace the media files stored in the storage device. The file display screen of each sports equipment displays representative images of the media files stored in the storage device, and prominently displays representative images of media files recommended in a given period. These recommended media files are selected from the media files stored in the storage device using a predetermined method and are periodically changed. When a user of a sports equipment instructs the execution of a media file and the storage device stores the instructed media file, the processing unit reads the data of the instructed media file from the storage device, thereby controlling the image display device to display the video content of the media file and controlling the sound playback device to play the audio content of the media file.

[0024] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned processing unit of each of the aforementioned sports equipment can request the required media file data from the aforementioned file server via the aforementioned data transmission interface and the aforementioned computer network; the aforementioned file display screen of each of the aforementioned sports equipment also displays representative images of the aforementioned media files that are managed by the aforementioned file server but are not currently saved by the aforementioned storage device; when a user of the aforementioned sports equipment instructs to execute a aforementioned media file and the aforementioned storage device does not currently save the instructed aforementioned media file, the aforementioned file server will, according to the request of the aforementioned processing unit, send the data of the instructed aforementioned media file to the aforementioned data transmission interface via the aforementioned computer network in a streaming manner; at the same time, the aforementioned processing unit will, according to the aforementioned data received by the aforementioned data transmission interface, control the aforementioned image display device to display the video content of the aforementioned media file in a streaming manner, and control the aforementioned sound playback device to play the audio content of the aforementioned media file.

[0025] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, in the aforementioned file display screen of each of the aforementioned sports equipment, the representative image of the aforementioned media file stored in the aforementioned storage device is arranged before the representative image of the aforementioned media file that is not currently stored in the aforementioned storage device.

[0026] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, in the aforementioned file display screen of each of the aforementioned sports equipment, the arrangement order of the representative images of the aforementioned media files stored in the aforementioned storage device is changed periodically.

[0027] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, when the image displayed by the aforementioned image display device of each of the aforementioned sports equipment switches from other screens to the aforementioned file display screen, the representative image of the aforementioned recommended media file is displayed in a relatively large size in a prominent position in the screen at that time.

[0028] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the method for selecting the media files recommended in this issue from the media files stored in the aforementioned storage device includes random selection, and when randomly selecting the media files recommended in this issue, priority is given to selecting from media files that have not been randomly selected as the media files recommended in this issue.

[0029] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, at least some of the aforementioned media files are each assigned a randomly allocated recommendation period; the aforementioned media files with the aforementioned recommendation period stored in the aforementioned storage device of each of the aforementioned sports equipment will be selected as the media files recommended in the current period during the corresponding aforementioned recommendation period.

[0030] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, each of the aforementioned media files with the aforementioned recommendation period is provided with a pre-recommendation processing instruction and a post-recommendation processing instruction. The aforementioned pre-recommendation processing instruction determines whether the aforementioned media file will be displayed in the aforementioned file display screen before the corresponding aforementioned recommendation period, and the aforementioned post-recommendation processing instruction determines whether the aforementioned media file will be displayed in the aforementioned file display screen after the corresponding aforementioned recommendation period.

[0031] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the aforementioned media files is time-sensitive and created for a specific annual event. Each of the aforementioned time-sensitive media files has a recommended period, which corresponds to the occurrence period of the corresponding annual event. According to the aforementioned file delivery plan, the aforementioned file server will transmit the aforementioned time-sensitive media files to the scheduled receiving sports equipment before the corresponding recommended period. The aforementioned time-sensitive media files stored in the aforementioned storage devices of each of the aforementioned sports equipment will be selected as the recommended media files for the current period during the corresponding recommended period, and will not be displayed in the aforementioned file display screen outside of the recommended period.

[0032] In one possible embodiment of the invention, several media archives with the aforementioned timeliness are produced for the same annual event, and the aforementioned recommended periods of these media archives are consecutive and cover the period during which the aforementioned annual event occurs.

[0033] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned processing unit of each of the aforementioned sports equipment may, based on the aforementioned user's personalized data and / or instructions, select the aforementioned media files that meet the aforementioned user's needs from the aforementioned media files stored in the aforementioned storage device, and centrally display representative images of the selected aforementioned media files in the aforementioned file display screen.

[0034] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned file server obtains new aforementioned media files at regular intervals; according to the aforementioned file delivery plan, the aforementioned file server will periodically transmit the newly managed aforementioned media files to the predetermined aforementioned sports equipment, so that the aforementioned media files stored in each of the aforementioned sports equipment will be fully or partially updated at regular intervals.

[0035] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, according to the aforementioned file delivery plan, the time when the aforementioned file server transmits the data of the aforementioned media file to the aforementioned sports equipment is scheduled during the off-peak hours of network traffic in the network environment where the aforementioned sports equipment is located.

[0036] In one possible embodiment of the invention, a plurality of the aforementioned sports equipment are installed in a sports venue; according to the aforementioned file delivery plan, the aforementioned file server will transmit the data of the aforementioned media files to the aforementioned sports equipment installed in the aforementioned sports venue during off-peak network traffic periods of the aforementioned sports venue.

[0037] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, according to the aforementioned file delivery plan, the aforementioned file server transmits the data of the aforementioned media files to a portion of the aforementioned sports equipment located in the aforementioned sports venues each day, until all the aforementioned sports equipment scheduled to receive the files has saved all the aforementioned media files scheduled to be transmitted.

[0038] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned computer network includes a local area network deployed at the aforementioned sports venue; at least one of the aforementioned file servers is located at the aforementioned sports venue and can transmit the data of the aforementioned media files via the aforementioned local area network to the aforementioned sports equipment located at the aforementioned sports venue in accordance with the aforementioned file delivery plan.

[0039] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned computer network further includes a wide area network; at least one of the aforementioned file servers is located outside the aforementioned sports venue, and can transmit the data of the aforementioned media files to the aforementioned file server located at the aforementioned sports venue via the aforementioned wide area network.

[0040] In one possible embodiment of the present invention, at least one of the aforementioned file servers is located outside the aforementioned sports venue, and can transmit the data of the aforementioned media files to the aforementioned sports equipment located in the aforementioned sports venue via the aforementioned computer network in accordance with the aforementioned file distribution plan.

[0041] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, the provided sports equipment application system includes: a remote server managing a certain number of media files, each of which has data corresponding to a video content, an audio content, and a representative image; a local server located in a sports venue, capable of forming a data transmission connection with the remote server via a wide area network; and a plurality of sports equipment located in the aforementioned sports venue, each of which has a movement mechanism, an image display device, a sound playback device, an indicator device, a data transmission interface, and a processing unit, wherein the aforementioned movement mechanism allows a user to exercise, and the aforementioned image display device can display information for the user. The aforementioned audio playback device can play audio for the user to hear, the aforementioned instruction device allows the user to issue instructions, the aforementioned data transmission interface can form a data transmission connection with the aforementioned local server via a local area network, the aforementioned processing unit can process the instructions received by the aforementioned instruction device and the data received by the aforementioned data transmission interface, and control the images displayed by the aforementioned image display device and the audio played by the aforementioned audio playback device; the aforementioned processing unit can control the aforementioned image display device to display a file display screen, which displays representative images of the aforementioned media files that the user can select to execute; the aforementioned local server has a non-volatile storage device, which can store multiple The aforementioned media files; the aforementioned remote server can, according to a file delivery plan, transmit the scheduled data of the aforementioned media files to the aforementioned local server via the aforementioned wide area network at a scheduled time; the aforementioned local server can write the received data of the aforementioned media files to the aforementioned storage device to supplement or replace the aforementioned media files stored in the aforementioned storage device; the aforementioned processing unit of each of the aforementioned sports equipment can request the required data of the aforementioned media files from the aforementioned local server via the aforementioned local area network through the aforementioned data transmission interface; the aforementioned file display screen of each of the aforementioned sports equipment displays a representative image of the aforementioned media files stored in the aforementioned storage device, and the representative image of the media files recommended in this period will be prominently displayed. The media files recommended in this issue are selected from the media files stored in the aforementioned storage device using a predetermined method and are changed periodically. When a user of the aforementioned exercise equipment instructs the execution of the aforementioned media file and the aforementioned storage device stores the instructed media file, the aforementioned local server will, according to the request of the aforementioned processing unit, send the data of the instructed media file to the aforementioned data transmission interface via the aforementioned local area network in a streaming manner. At the same time, the aforementioned processing unit will, according to the aforementioned data received by the aforementioned data transmission interface, control the aforementioned image display device to display the video content of the aforementioned media file in a streaming manner, and control the aforementioned sound playback device to play the audio content of the aforementioned media file.

[0042] To achieve the above objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, the provided sports equipment includes: a sports mechanism for a user to exercise; an image display device for displaying images for the user to view; a sound playback device for playing sounds for the user to hear; an instruction device for the user to issue instructions; a data transmission interface for forming a data transmission connection with a computer network, enabling the receiving of data from media files transmitted via the computer network, including video content, audio content, and representative images of the media files; a processing unit for processing the instructions received by the instruction device and the data received by the data transmission interface, and controlling the images displayed by the image display device and the sounds played by the sound playback device; the processing unit can control the image display device to display a file display screen, wherein representative images of the media files that the user can select to execute are displayed; characterized in that: it further includes A non-volatile storage device is provided, which can store multiple media files. The processing unit can write data of the media files received by the data transmission interface into the storage device to supplement or replace the media files stored in the storage device. The file display screen displays representative images of the media files stored in the storage device, and prominently displays representative images of media files recommended in this issue. The media files recommended in this issue are selected from the media files stored in the storage device by a predetermined method and are changed periodically. When the user instructs to execute a media file and the storage device stores the instructed media file, the processing unit reads the data of the instructed media file from the storage device, thereby controlling the image display device to display the video content of the media file and controlling the sound playback device to play the audio content of the media file.

[0043] Therefore, this invention provides users of sports equipment with selectable video content (i.e., audio-visual content of media files), and also has the following features and effects:

[0044] 1. Under normal circumstances, because exercise equipment can directly read the complete data of the media file selected by the user from its storage device, the audio and video content of the media file can maintain smooth playback quality from beginning to end, resulting in a better user experience.

[0045] Second, in certain implementations, users can also select other (e.g., older) media files on the file server, offering a wider range of choices; based on the way the file display screen is presented, users usually select media files saved on the storage device, so the proportion of media files played via network streaming is relatively low.

[0046] Third, especially for sports venues with multiple sports equipment that allow multiple users to use them simultaneously, the network bandwidth requirements are reduced due to the dispersion of network traffic, resulting in lower overall equipment costs and network fees.

[0047] Fourth, because the available media files can be updated in a planned manner, and the content and arrangement of the file display screen are frequently changed, the media file selection presented to users can remain fresh, which can promote and maintain users' willingness to use the service. Attached Figure Description

[0048] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the system configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the sports equipment in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0050] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the structure of a media file in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0051] Figure 4 This is an example of a file display screen in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the periodic updating of the recommended archives in a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of a file delivery plan in a preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the system configuration of another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Figure 8 In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, the user device connects to a login webpage by scanning a machine-readable code on the sports equipment to select and play videos.

[0056] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram of the configuration of a user device in another preferred embodiment of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 10 The login page in another preferred embodiment of the present invention provides three video options;

[0058] Figure 11 This illustrates that in another preferred embodiment of the invention, a user can sequentially use multiple exercise devices to perform a series of exercises. Detailed Implementation

[0059] Please refer to the following first. Figure 1This is a schematic diagram of a system configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The system mainly includes at least one remote server 10 and multiple pieces of sports equipment 30 that can form a data transmission connection with the remote server 10 via a computer network. The sports equipment 30 may be distributed in different locations within the coverage area of ​​the computer network. In this embodiment, because the computer network includes a wide area network (e.g., the Internet) 90, the sports equipment 30 may be scattered in multiple locations in different communities, different cities, or even different countries. Some (e.g., Figure 1 The exercise equipment 30 shown on the right may each be located in the home of an individual user, while some (such as...) Figure 1 The exercise equipment 30 shown on the left may be centrally located in a sports business venue, such as a fitness club or community sports center. Within the system as a whole, the exercise equipment 30 may include various types of equipment, such as treadmills, stationary bikes (including upright bikes, reclining bikes, and fly bikes), elliptical trainers, steppers, stair climbers, rowing machines, etc. The same type of exercise equipment may also include different models and may be designed and manufactured by different companies, provided that each possesses the necessary (described later) hardware, software functions, and service authorization to transmit data with the remote server 10. This authorization may be attached to the exercise equipment 30 itself, or to the owner or user of the exercise equipment 30.

[0060] Remote server 10 is constantly connected to wide area network 90 and can access and manage data or files in a remote database 15, which includes a majority of media files with audio and video content. These media files are created by media content providers, uploaded to remote server 10 via wide area network 90, and stored in remote database 15. The system in this embodiment includes multiple remote servers 10 and remote databases 15, which can be used to distribute the service load. For example, different types or models of sports equipment 30 will connect to different remote servers 10, each obtaining the corresponding media file data. In terms of main function, each remote server 10 is essentially a file server. The term "remote" is relative to the location of the sports equipment 30 (i.e., local), meaning that the remote server 10 and the sports equipment 30 are usually not in the same location.

[0061] In contrast, each sports venue may have a local server 20. The sports equipment 30 within this venue can establish a data transmission connection with the local server 20 via a local area network (e.g., Ethernet) 80 to receive management and services from the local server 20. Furthermore, the local server 20 can connect to an external network (i.e., a wide area network 90) and has routing capabilities, enabling the sports equipment 30 within the venue to request media files from a remote server 10 and receive media files from the remote server 10. Therefore, for the sports equipment 30 located in a sports venue, the computer network includes both a local area network 80 and a wide area network 90. ​​On the other hand, as... Figure 1 As illustrated on the right, each individual user's exercise equipment 30 may be directly connected to the wide area network 90; of course, it may also be connected to the wide area network 90 via, for example, a local area network of an apartment building.

[0062] like Figure 2 As shown, each piece of exercise equipment 30 includes a motion mechanism 31, an image display device 32, a sound playback device 33, an indicator device 34, a data transmission interface 35, and a processing unit 36. The motion mechanism 31, such as the treadmill belt mechanism of a treadmill or the pedal mechanism of a stationary bicycle, allows a user to exercise. The image display device 32, for example... Figure 1 The flat panel display (including a touch screen, detailed later) at the front of each piece of sports equipment 30 can display images for the user to view. A sound playback device 33, such as a stereo speaker integrated into the flat panel display, can play sounds for the user to hear. An instruction device 34, such as a touch screen or various physical buttons, allows the user to issue instructions. A data transmission interface 35, such as a wired or wireless network interface card, can establish a data transmission connection with a remote server 10 (and a local server 20) via a computer network. A processing unit 36, such as a microprocessor, is electrically connected to the image display device 32, the sound playback device 33, the instruction device 34, and the data transmission interface 35. It can process instructions received by the instruction device 34 and data received by the data transmission interface 35, and control the images displayed on the image display device 32 and the sounds played by the sound playback device 33.

[0063] In this invention, each piece of sports equipment 30 has a non-volatile storage device 39, which can store multiple media files 40. When the sports equipment 30 is used for the first time, the storage device 39 may not have any media files stored, or may only have files pre-written before the sports equipment 30 leaves the factory. However, based on the system operation of this invention (details below), after a period of normal use, the storage device 39 will store the media files 40 provided directly or indirectly by the remote server 10. Unlike the temporary data stored in the registers or main memory (e.g., DRAM) that assist the processing unit (e.g., microprocessor) 36 in various operations, the data stored in the storage device 39 will not be lost due to the power supply being stopped (e.g., the sports equipment 30 is turned off). In practice, the storage device 39 may be a solid-state drive (SSD), a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), a flash memory card, etc. The processing unit 36 ​​is electrically connected to the storage device 39 and can access data on the storage device 39, including reading, writing, editing, moving, and deleting.

[0064] Please see Figure 3 Each media file 40 contains data 44 corresponding to a video content and data 45 corresponding to an audio content. The video and audio content are sequentially related; for example, it could be a video or audio recording of a sports class led by a coach, or a video of an outdoor scene with background music. The image display device 32 of the sports equipment 30 can display the video content, and the sound playback device 33 can play the audio content to guide the user in exercising using the sports mechanism 31.

[0065] Some exercise equipment 30 in this system may have an electronically controlled adjustment device 37 for adjusting the difficulty of exercise provided by the exercise mechanism 31, such as the running belt speed of a treadmill, the incline of a treadmill, or the pedal resistance of a stationary bicycle. The processing unit 36 ​​is electrically connected to the adjustment device 37, can control the adjustment device 37 to adjust the exercise difficulty, and receives feedback signals from the adjustment device 37. Specifically designed for exercise equipment 30 with adjustment devices 37, some media files 40 have data 46 corresponding to a set of control signals. The control signals and video content have a time-series relationship. The processing unit 36 ​​can sequentially control the adjustment device 37 according to the control signals, so that the exercise mechanism 31 provides a specific difficulty level at a specific point in time in the video content. For example, when playing a video of an exercise class led by a coach, the difficulty level of the exercise mechanism 31 will automatically increase or decrease in time according to the coach's requirements in the video. Or, when playing a continuously moving outdoor scene, the treadmill incline or pedal resistance will be provided in accordance with the terrain in the video.

[0066] Each media file 40 also has data 41 corresponding to a file number, data 42 corresponding to a title, and data 43 corresponding to a thumbnail. The file number serves as a unique identifier for each media file 40 and is primarily used for file management. The title information records brief information about each media file 40, such as the type, name, coach, duration, and difficulty of the exercise course, allowing users to easily understand the content of each media file 40. The thumbnail represents the video content of each media file 40 with a representative image. It is not limited to a reduced-size screenshot; for example, it may be multiple images used for carousel playback or a short video clip used for loop playback. It is usually captured from the video content, but may also be filmed separately or processed through image compositing, editing, etc., and may include eye-catching text and graphics. In short, it is used to allow users to quickly understand the content of each media file 40.

[0067] Each piece of exercise equipment 30's processing unit 36 ​​can control the image display device 32 to display a file display screen on the entire screen or a portion thereof. This screen displays representative images of media files 40 that the user can select and execute, allowing the user to intuitively search for audio-visual content that meets their personal needs by browsing the various representative images, and then specify execution after further confirmation. The file display screen may appear in response to the user's instruction via the indicator device 34, or it may appear automatically when the exercise equipment 30 is not in use. Figure 4 In the example shown, the file display screen 50 prominently displays the representative image 51 of the recommended media files for this issue. In this example, when the image displayed on the video display device 32 switches from other screens to the file display screen 50, the upper half of the screen displays the representative image 51 of the recommended media files for this issue (Note: the selection method for the recommended media files for this issue will be detailed later), while the lower half simultaneously displays several other representative images 51 of media files. The representative image 51 of the recommended media files for this issue is significantly larger than the other representative images 51 of media files. For example, the width and height of the representative image 51 in the upper half of the image are more than twice that of the representative images 51 in the lower half, which means that its area is at least four times larger. Thus, when the user sees the file display screen 50, they will naturally pay attention to the representative image 51 of the recommended media files for this issue first. Preferably, the representative image 51 of the media files recommended in this issue may be presented in a dynamic manner, such as a slideshow of multiple images or a short video clip playing in a loop, while the representative images 51 of other media files may be presented in a static manner, such as continuously displaying the same image or a still image before the video playback.

[0068] On the other hand, the representative image 51 of the recommended media files in this issue displays corresponding title information 52 in an appropriate corner, while the representative images 51 of other media files also display corresponding title information 52 below them. The font size of the former is more than twice that of the latter. In addition, the representative image 51 of the recommended media files in this issue is also specially marked as a recommended file in this issue, such as "CLASS OF THE WEEK". In this invention, when each media file 40 is a recommended file in this issue or not, the image format or image content of the representative image 51 presented in the file display screen 50 may be different. For example, the processing unit 36 ​​may select pictures or videos according to predetermined rules, control whether the picture carousel or video is played, scale the image, and overlay text, etc.

[0069] In general, the number of media files 40 available for user selection may be as many as dozens or even hundreds. It is conceivable that a single area of ​​the file display screen 50 cannot simultaneously display all the representative images 51 and title information 52 of all media files 40. Therefore, the interface design typically allows at least a portion of the content displayed on the file display screen 50 to be scrolled or page-changed based on user operations, enabling the sequential display of more representative images 51 of the media files 40 (and accompanying title information 52, which will not be discussed further below). In this example, the image display device 32 uses a touch screen. The user can use a vertical swipe gesture on the screen to scroll the content displayed in the lower half of the file display screen 50 to browse more representative images 51 of the media files, while the representative images 51 of the currently recommended media files in the upper half of the screen remain unchanged. Alternatively, all representative images 51 in the file display screen 50 can scroll up and down together; in other words, the representative images 51 of the currently recommended media files initially displayed in the upper half of the screen may temporarily move out of the screen area due to user operations. In addition to sequentially browsing representative images 51 of all available media files 40, users can also narrow down the number of candidate files using filtering functions (such as specifying the duration of the exercise course, the difficulty level, etc.). It must be noted that... Figure 4 The layout and operation of the file display screen 50 shown are merely an example of the present invention and not a limitation. Different interface designs can certainly be used in practice. For example, the file display screen may display a representative image of the recommended media files in this issue until the user instructs them to browse other media files. The position of the representative image of the recommended media files in the file display screen can be compared to the so-called "Hero section" in modern web design—it is the area that users will inevitably notice first when they see the screen.

[0070] The media files recommended in this issue are selected from the media files 40 stored in storage device 39 using a predetermined method and are changed periodically, such as weekly or daily. In one possible implementation, the method for selecting the media files recommended in this issue from the media files 40 stored in storage device 39 includes random selection, and when randomly selecting the media files recommended in this issue, priority is given to media files that have not been randomly selected as recommended in this issue. Please refer to... Figure 5 The specific example shown (note: the numbers are arbitrary examples) assumes that the recommended media files change weekly, and storage device 39 stores 52 different media files 40, which we'll call files 1 to 52. On the first day of week 1, processing unit 36 ​​randomly selects, for example, file 9 from the 52 media files as the recommended media file for this week. One week later, on the first day of week 2, when reselecting the recommended media files, file 9 will be excluded, and file 24 will be randomly selected from the remaining 51 media files. Similarly, when reselecting in week 3, files 9 and 24, which were selected in the previous two weeks, will be excluded, and files 24 will be randomly selected from the remaining 50 media files, and so on. If storage device 39 does not receive any new media files 40, the process will start over on the first day of week 53, randomly selecting the recommended media files from the 52 media files 40.

[0071] Combination Figure 5 The specific example shown is as follows: Figure 4 The upper half of the file display screen 50 will show the representative image 51 of file number 9 in the first week, and the representative image 51 of file number 24 in the second week, and so on. On the other hand, excluding the media files recommended for that period, the representative images 51 of the other 51 media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 can be displayed sequentially in the lower half of the file display screen 50 (note: in this example, initially the first 6 of the 51 are displayed, and scrolling is required to view all of them), and the order of the representative images 51 will change periodically, for example, weekly or daily. Figure 5In the specific example shown, in week 1, processing unit 36 ​​randomly arranges the representative images of the 51 files excluding file 9; in week 2, the representative image of file 9 is deliberately placed at the very end, and the remaining 50 are randomly arranged again; in week 3, the representative image of file 24 is placed at the very end, while the representative image of file 9 is moved to the second-to-last position, and the remaining 49 are randomly arranged again, and so on. Simply put, representative images of media files that have been featured in this period are placed further back, with the more recent appearances placed further back, while representative images of media files that have never been featured in this period are placed earlier, making it easier or faster for users to see them. If storage device 39 does not receive any new media files 40, the process starts again in week 53. In another approach, the representative images of all media files are randomly arranged each week.

[0072] In fact, based on the system operation of the present invention, the media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 of each sports equipment 30 will be fully or partially updated every once in a period of time. Specifically, the remote server 10 or the local server 20 can transmit the data of the scheduled media files 40 to the data transmission interface 35 of the scheduled sports equipment 30 at a scheduled time according to a file delivery plan. The processing unit 36 ​​of each sports equipment 30 can write the data of the media files 40 received by the data transmission interface 35 into the storage device 39 to supplement or replace the media files 40 stored in the storage device 39.

[0073] continue Figure 5In this example, the 52 media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 are sufficient to replace different recommended files every week even if there are no updates for a whole year. However, in order to provide a sustainable service, in the default operation mode of this embodiment, the media files 40 (referred to as memory files) stored in the storage device 39 are updated approximately every three months (quarterly update). Each time, one-quarter of them are replaced, that is, 13 of the existing 52 media files 40 are deleted and replaced with 13 brand new media files 40. For example, in the 14th week, 13 files such as No. 9 and No. 24 that were selected as recommended files in the previous 13 weeks are deleted, and 13 files such as No. 53 to No. 65 are written. It is conceivable that in the 27th week, 13 new files such as No. 66 to No. 78 will be obtained, replacing the 13 old files that were selected as recommended files in, for example, the 14th to 26th weeks, and so on. The above-mentioned number of files and update frequency are merely a sample example for illustrative purposes. In practice, there can be different update methods. For example, updates may be made every one or two weeks, with only a small number of files being added or replaced each time, or every six months or a year, with each update being a major overhaul or complete renovation. Updates may also be irregular, and the number or proportion of files updated each time may vary. If the storage device 39 has sufficient capacity, new files can be written without deleting old files. Especially when used in home exercise equipment, users can specify their favorite (usually limited) media files 40 through the file display screen 50, ensuring that the specified files will not be deleted from the storage device 39 during the next update. Ideally, they can be saved in a specially reserved space on the storage device 39 and can be quickly selected through a filtering function.

[0074] Figure 6 This illustrates a file delivery plan (partial). A remote server 10 or a local server 20, according to the file delivery plan, transmits data from media files 40 to multiple pieces of sports equipment 30 within a sports venue, enabling the memory files of each piece of sports equipment 30 to be updated periodically. For example... Figure 6The concept is illustrated as follows: the memory files of the first type of sports equipment (such as treadmills, codenames TM01, TM02, etc.) in the sports venue are scheduled to be updated quarterly in January, April, July, and October each year; the memory files of the second type of sports equipment (such as stationary bicycles, codenames BK01, BK02, etc.) are scheduled to be updated quarterly in February, May, August, and November each year, and so on. Considering the possible number of sports equipment and the speed of data transmission and file updates, the quarterly update operations of various types of sports equipment may be spread over several days. For example, the first day is scheduled to be updated for machines 1 and 2, the second day for machines 3 and 4, and so on. Alternatively, updates may be performed on unspecified machines every day, depending on the situation. In short, only some of the media files 40 are transmitted to a portion of the sports equipment 30 in the sports venue each day until all the scheduled receiving sports equipment 30 has saved all the scheduled transmitted media files 40. In this way, the memory files of each piece of sports equipment 30 in the sports venue can be updated approximately every three months. Based on the same concept, the remote server 10 can transmit scheduled media files 40 to scheduled individual users' exercise equipment 30 at scheduled times, so that the memory files of each individual user's exercise equipment 30 can be updated regularly or irregularly.

[0075] To effectively utilize network bandwidth and avoid network congestion, the time when the remote server 10 or the local server 20 transmits the data of the media file 40 to the sports equipment 30 via the computer network should ideally be scheduled during off-peak hours of the network traffic in the network environment where the sports equipment 30 is located. For example, suppose that the majority of customers of the sports venue use the sports equipment 30 during weekday evenings and weekends, when network traffic is significantly higher than during other times (the former are called peak hours and the latter are called off-peak hours). In contrast, network traffic is significantly lower between late night and early morning on weekdays. Therefore, it is suitable to schedule the transmission of the media file 40 to the sports equipment 30 in the sports venue during this period to update the memory files of each piece of sports equipment 30.

[0076] The local server 20 within the sports venue may also function as a file server, meaning it can access and manage data or files in a local database 25 (considered part of the local server 20). The local database 25 uses non-volatile storage to store data or files, including multiple media files 40. The remote server 10 can, according to a file delivery schedule, transmit scheduled media files 40 via a wide area network 90 to the local server 20 with the local database 25 at scheduled times. The local server 20 can write the received media files 40 to the non-volatile storage of the local database 25 to supplement or replace the media files 40 stored therein. The media files 40 managed by the local server 20 (stored in the local database 25) may be the same as, or only a portion of, the media files 40 managed by the remote server 10 (stored in the remote database 15).

[0077] If the local server 20 within the sports venue does not have a storage device capable of storing media files 40, then the memory file updates for the sports equipment 30 within the sports venue are typically performed by the remote server 10, which, according to a file delivery schedule, transmits the scheduled media file 40 data to the local server 20 via the wide area network 90 at a scheduled time. The local server 20 then uses its routing function to forward the data via the local area network 80 to the specific sports equipment 30 within the venue. Alternatively, without going through the local server, the remote server 10 directly transmits the media file data to the sports equipment 30 within the sports venue via a computer network. If the local server 20 has a storage device capable of storing media files 40, then after receiving the required media file 40 for updates from the remote server 10, the local server 20, according to its own file delivery schedule, transmits the scheduled media file 40 data to the scheduled sports equipment 30 via the local area network 80 at a scheduled time to update the memory files.

[0078] To provide sustainable service, media content providers continuously create new media files 40 for various sports equipment, uploading them periodically or irregularly via wide area network 90 to remote server 10 and storing them in remote database 15. Copies are then sent to local server 20 and stored in local database 25. In other words, the file servers in this system (whether remote server 10 or local server 20) receive new media files 40 periodically. According to the file delivery plan, the file servers will periodically deliver newly managed media files 40 to designated sports equipment 30, ensuring that the media files 40 stored on each piece of sports equipment 30 are fully or partially updated periodically.

[0079] In this embodiment, the processing unit 36 ​​of each piece of sports equipment 30 can request the required media file 40 data from the file server via the data transmission interface 35 through a computer network. For example, it can request the data of a representative image 51 of a media file 40 (hereinafter referred to as an online file) that is not currently saved on the storage device 39 of the sports equipment 30 but is managed by the file server. The file display screen 50 of each piece of sports equipment 30 also displays the representative image 51 of the online file. Preferably, the representative image 51 of the online file can be arranged after the representative image 51 of the memory file, such as... Figure 5 As illustrated on the right, when a user browses the selectable media files by scrolling or page-turning, they will typically see the representative image 51 of the memory file first, and then see the representative image 51 of the online file. Generally, the memory file will be the newer media file 40 released by the media content provider, while the online file will be an earlier media file 40 (which may have been stored on the storage device 39 but has been deleted).

[0080] When a user of a sports equipment 30 instructs to execute a media file 40 displayed on the file display screen 50, and the storage device 39 of the sports equipment 30 stores the instructed media file 40 (in other words, the user specifies to execute one of the memory files), the processing unit 36 ​​reads the data of the instructed media file 40 from the storage device 39, and controls the image display device 32 to display the video content of the media file 40, and controls the sound playback device 33 to play the audio content of the media file 40. If the storage device 39 of the sports equipment 30 does not currently store the instructed media file 40 (in other words, the user specifies to execute one of the online files), the remote server 10 or the local server 20 will, according to the request of the processing unit 36, send the data of the instructed media file 40 to the data transmission interface 35 of the sports equipment 30 via a computer network in a streaming manner. At the same time, the processing unit 36 ​​will, according to the data received by the data transmission interface 35, control the image display device 32 to display the video content of the media file 40 in a streaming manner, and control the sound playback device 33 to play the audio content of the media file 40.

[0081] The application system for the aforementioned sports equipment, as described in this invention, provides users with a selection of media files for immediate playback. Because the media files available for user selection on each piece of sports equipment are updated regularly, and the content and arrangement of the displayed files are frequently changed, the selection of media files presented to the user remains fresh, thus promoting and maintaining the user's willingness to use the equipment. Most notably, the displayed files use a prominent display method to encourage users to select and play the currently recommended media files. Based on the regular updates of the stored files and the regular changes in recommended files, users can frequently notice the newly added media files. For users who exercise at sports venues once or twice a week, even with the same type of sports equipment and the same stored files, the currently recommended files (and other media files displayed at the top) may differ, ensuring that users always see novel media files.

[0082] Normally, users will specify the media files recommended for the current period, or other media files also stored on the sports equipment's storage device. Because the processing unit of each sports equipment can directly read the complete data of the media file selected by the user from the storage device, the audio and video content of the media file can maintain smooth playback quality from beginning to end, unaffected by network conditions, resulting in a better user experience. In certain implementations, users can also choose other media files stored on remote or local servers, offering a wider range of choices; however, as mentioned earlier, based on the way the file is displayed, users usually choose media files stored on the storage device, so the proportion of media files played via network streaming is relatively low. Especially for sports venues with multiple sports equipment for multiple users to use simultaneously, the distributed network traffic reduces the network bandwidth requirements, resulting in lower overall equipment costs and network fees.

[0083] Regarding the selection method for the media files recommended in this period, in addition to the temporary random selection mentioned above, it is also possible to select media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 in a predetermined order, such as selecting them sequentially according to the creation date or acquisition time of each media file 40. In one possible implementation, all or some media files 40 each have data 47 corresponding to a recommendation period, the data format of which is such as "from a certain day of a certain month to a certain day of a certain month", "N days from a certain day of a certain month", or "the Nth week of a certain year", etc., in short, it can correspond to a specific period, used to pre-determine that media file 40 as the media file recommended in this period. The recommendation period of each media file 40 may be set manually by, for example, the media content provider, or it may be programmed by the remote server 10, the local server 20, or the processing unit 36 ​​of each sports equipment 30, for example, a recommendation period may be given sequentially according to the time of acquisition or transmission of the file, or a recommendation period may be randomly assigned to each media file 40 without conflict. In short, the order of recommended files for multiple future periods can be preset at once. The media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 of each sports equipment 30, which are set with the recommended period, will be selected as the recommended media files for the current period.

[0084] Each media file 40 with a set recommendation period has data 48 corresponding to a pre-recommendation processing instruction and data 49 corresponding to a post-recommendation processing instruction. The pre-recommendation processing instruction determines whether the media file 40 will be displayed in the file display screen 50 before the corresponding recommendation period, and the post-recommendation processing instruction determines whether the media file 40 will be displayed in the file display screen 50 after the corresponding recommendation period.

[0085] In one possible implementation, at least one media file 40 is time-sensitive, created by a media content provider for a specific annual event. The media content provider sets a recommendation period for each time-sensitive media file 40, which corresponds to the occurrence of the annual event. For example, in the United States, a media file created for Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK ​​Day) has a recommendation period set on that day; a media file created for Thanksgiving Day has a recommendation period from five days before Thanksgiving Day to Thanksgiving Day; a media file created for Menthhealth Awareness Month has a recommendation period in May of each year, and so on. According to the file delivery plan, the file server will deliver the time-sensitive media file 40 to the scheduled receiving sports equipment 30 before the corresponding recommendation period. For example, a media file created for Thanksgiving Day might be completed as early as July and delivered to each sports equipment 30. The time-sensitive media files 40 stored in the storage devices 39 of each piece of sports equipment 30 will be selected as recommended media files for the current period, and will not be displayed in the file display screen 50 outside of the recommended period. This means that users cannot select and execute time-sensitive media files 40 at other times. Time-sensitive media files 40 are usually deleted from the storage devices 39 after the recommended period has expired.

[0086] Media content providers may also create multiple time-sensitive media files 40 for the same annual event. The recommendation periods of each media file 40 are consecutive and cover the period of the annual event. For example, there are four media files 40 created for Mental Health Awareness Month, each with a recommendation period of one week and consecutive to each other (e.g., the first, second, third, and fourth weeks of May), forming a series of media files recommended sequentially for four consecutive weeks. In this example, the existence of the series may be announced to users in the first week of May or slightly earlier, but users cannot choose to use the media files for the second week and subsequent weeks in the first week, and so on.

[0087] The exercise equipment 30 may include an identification device 38, which allows the processing unit 36 ​​to identify or presume the user's identity. This may be achieved through a memory card, near-field communication (NFC) of a portable device (such as a smartphone or smartwatch), or password authentication. The processing unit 36 ​​of the exercise equipment 30 can select media files that meet the user's needs from the media files 40 stored in the storage device 39 based on the user's personalized data and / or instructions, and display representative images 51 of the selected media files 40 on the file display screen 50.

[0088] In a variant of the preferred embodiment described above (note: the numbering and concepts of the components below follow the above content), the sports venue is equipped with a local server 20 with file server function, which manages a certain number of media files 40 stored in a local database (storage device) 25. On the other hand, the sports equipment 30 installed in the sports venue does not have its own storage device for storing media files 40. The processing unit 36 ​​of each piece of sports equipment 30 can request the required media files 40 from the local server 20 via a data transmission interface 35 through a local area network 80. The file display screen 50 of each piece of sports equipment 30 displays the media files 40 stored in the local database 25. Table 51 displays a representative image of the media files recommended in this issue, which are selected from the media files 40 stored in the local database 25 using a predetermined method such as random selection. When a user instructs the execution of a media file 40 stored in the local database 25, the local server 20 will send the data of the instructed media file 40 to the data transmission interface 35 of the sports equipment 30 via the local area network 80 in a streaming manner according to the request of the processing unit 36. At the same time, the processing unit 36 ​​will control the image display device 32 and the sound playback device 33 to play the audio and video content of the media file 40 in a streaming manner according to the data received by the data transmission interface 35.

[0089] Please refer to the following: Figure 7 The diagram shown is a schematic representation of a system configuration according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. The system mainly includes a remote server 10, at least one exercise device 30 (represented by a treadmill in the figure), and a user device 70.

[0090] Remote server 10 is connected to wide area network 90 and can access and manage data or files in a remote database 15, including a number of media files and at least one web page file. In this preferred embodiment, remote server 10 is essentially a web server. Remote database 15 may be directly connected to remote server 10 or connected via a computer network.

[0091] Each media file contains data corresponding to a piece of audio-visual content (a collective term for video and audio content), which is used to guide a user of exercise equipment 30 to perform exercise for a predetermined duration. Each webpage file (e.g., an HTML file) can constitute a landing page 71, such as... Figure 10In the example provided, each login webpage 71 offers one or more video options 77, 78, and 79. In this application, each login webpage 71 has a minimum of one video option and a maximum of a single digit (i.e., less than nine), preferably no more than five; this preferred embodiment uses three. Based on the programming and settings of the webpage files, each video option 77, 78, and 79 will connect to a non-fixed media file automatically selected from a certain number of media files. For example, the login webpage 71 will automatically update the connection daily, every three days, or weekly, changing to the next media file in a predetermined order during the update, or randomly selecting from a certain number of media files, essentially mimicking the method in the previous preferred embodiment. However, the audio-visual content of all media files linked to by video options 77, 78, and 79 on the same login webpage 71 can guide users of the same type of exercise equipment 30 to exercise using the exercise equipment 30. For example, among the media files managed by the remote server 10, some media files may have audio-visual content specifically designed to guide users to exercise using a treadmill, some media files may have audio-visual content specifically designed to guide users to exercise using a stationary bike, and some media files may have audio-visual content (such as a continuously moving outdoor scene) that can be used for both types of exercise. Correspondingly, one webpage file constitutes a first login webpage, and the audio-visual content of all media files linked to by video options on the first login webpage can guide users to exercise using a treadmill. Another webpage file constitutes a second login webpage, and the audio-visual content of all media files linked to by video options on the second login webpage can guide users to exercise using a stationary bike, and so on.

[0092] In the application system of this embodiment, the exercise equipment 30 itself may not have the function of playing streaming media. For example, it may not be equipped with an image display device capable of displaying images (instead, it may only have a dot matrix display capable of displaying characters or symbols), or it may lack the equipment or environment for connecting to the network. Regardless, each piece of exercise equipment 30 has a machine-readable code 60 attached to a user-visible part. The machine-readable code 60 may be affixed to a prominent location on the exterior of the exercise equipment 30 by means of a sticker or printing, such as on the front of the control panel facing the user (dashboard), or it may be presented to the user through an image display device (if present). In this preferred embodiment, the machine-readable code 60 adopts the most popular QR code format, namely QR code (Quick Response code). Of course, the machine-readable code in this invention may also adopt other formats of QR codes or one-dimensional codes. The machine-readable code 60 carries information containing a predetermined URL, such as a URL in Uniform Resource Locator (URL) format. This URL can be redirected to a specific landing page 71. The audio-visual content of the media files linked to by any of the video options 77, 78, or 79 on the landing page 71 can guide the user of the exercise equipment 30 to exercise using the exercise equipment 30. In other words, in this application, different types of exercise equipment have different machine-readable codes, and different machine-readable codes contain different predetermined URLs. Naturally, different URLs are redirected to different web pages. For example, each treadmill (a type of exercise equipment) has a first machine-readable code containing a first predetermined URL, which is redirected to a first landing page. The audio-visual content of the media files linked to by the video options on this page can guide the user to exercise using the treadmill. Each stationary bicycle (a type of exercise equipment) has a second machine-readable code containing a second predetermined URL, which is redirected to a second landing page. The audio-visual content of the media files linked to by the video options on this page can guide the user to exercise using the stationary bicycle.

[0093] The user device 70 is carried by the user of the exercise equipment 30, such as a smartphone or tablet, and can move with the user to the location of each piece of exercise equipment 30, and between different pieces of exercise equipment 30. Generally, each piece of exercise equipment 30 provides a stand for the user device 70. Figure 9As shown, in terms of functional modules, the user device 70 includes an image display device 73, an image capturing device 74, a processor 75, and a control module 76. The image display device (e.g., an LCD screen) 73 can display images for the user to view. The image capturing device (e.g., a digital camera) 74 can capture external images. The control module (e.g., a touchscreen module, serving as a user control interface) 76 allows the user to input control commands. In addition, the user device 70 also includes a sound playback device (not shown) and a wireless network interface. The sound playback device can play sound for the user to hear, including directly playing sound from the user device 60's built-in speaker, and transmitting sound signals via wired or wireless means to a portable speaker or headphones connected to the user device 60. The wireless network interface can wirelessly access the internet via Wi-Fi or mobile communication technology. The processor 75 manages the operation of the user control interface, the wireless network interface, the image capturing device, the image display device, and the sound playback device. The basic structure and functions of the user device (e.g., a smartphone or tablet computer) 70 described above are all prior art.

[0094] like Figure 7 and Figure 8 This illustrates that when a user uses the image capturing device 74 of user device 70 to capture a machine-readable code 60 on a piece of sports equipment 30 (or, in other words, when the captured image contains a machine-readable code 60), the processor 75 can decode the predetermined URL contained in the machine-readable code 60 in the image. Then, it connects to the computer network 90 via a wireless network interface and accesses the login webpage 71 redirected by the predetermined URL via a remote server (web server) 10, thereby controlling the image display device 73 to display the content of the login webpage 71. The aforementioned machine-readable code (e.g., a QR code) containing URL information, which can be decoded by capturing the machine-readable code and directly accessing the corresponding webpage, are all prior art techniques.

[0095] In this preferred embodiment, all media files that can guide users of the same type of exercise equipment to exercise will be further divided into multiple categories based on attributes such as the guidance method, exercise theme, training body part, or duration of each media file's audio-visual content; at least one login webpage provides multiple video options, wherein different video options will be linked to media files belonging to different categories.

[0096] like Figure 10As demonstrated, a landing page 71 for treadmills offers three video options 77, 78, and 79, belonging to three categories. The first video option 77 links to a media file containing an audio-visual lesson where an instructor demonstrates exercises using the same type of equipment while verbally encouraging others to imitate their movements. The second video option 78 links to a media file containing an outdoor scene that moves forward continuously. The third video option 79 links to a media file containing an exercise lesson with specific variations in intensity (e.g., high-intensity interval training). These three categories also apply to stationary bikes, elliptical trainers, or stair climbers.

[0097] The landing page for compound weight training machines can also offer multiple video options. The audio and video content of the media files linked to by different video options are used to guide users in training different body parts or muscle groups, such as the upper body, lower body, or core muscle groups, using the weight training machine.

[0098] In this preferred embodiment, the video options 77, 78, and 79 provided on the login webpage 71 are presented as symbolic images with names of their respective categories (e.g., "TRAINER-LED CLASS", "VIRTUAL ACTIVE", "SPRINT 8", etc.). When a user selects any video option on the login webpage 71 (e.g., by clicking the symbolic image on a touchscreen), the webpage content switches to displaying the representative image and title information of the media file currently connected to that video option (see [link]). Figure 3 , Figure 4 At this point, the user can command the media file to be executed (e.g., by selecting a representative image on the touchscreen), or return to the previous page to log in to webpage 71 and select again. In another possible implementation, the video options 77, 78, and 79 in the login webpage 71 are presented directly with the representative image and title information of the media file currently connected.

[0099] Furthermore, the login page 71 in this invention may also provide multiple video options. Although each video option is linked to a different media file, each media file belongs to the same category (or there is no category distinction at the beginning). For example, the video content of multiple video options under the login page for treadmills at the same time is an exercise course where a coach induces others to imitate his running exercise, but the coaches and styles are different.

[0100] In summary, users can select from video options 77, 78, and 79 provided on the login webpage 71. When the processor 75 of the user device 70 receives a command from the user control interface instructing the playback of the audio-visual content of a media file linked to a video option, the processor 75 requests the audio-visual content data of the media file from the remote server 10. If conditions permit, the remote server 10 will stream the corresponding audio-visual data to the requesting user device 70 via the wide area network 90. ​​Simultaneously, the processor 75 of the user device 70 will control the video display device 73 to display the video content of the media file and control the audio playback device to play the audio content of the media file using streaming media. While the user device 70 is playing the audio-visual content of the media file, the user can follow the guidance of the audio-visual content and use the exercise equipment 30 to perform exercises for a predetermined duration.

[0101] Through the above-described sports equipment application system, even if the sports equipment does not have the function of playing streaming media, users can easily and quickly start watching videos that guide them to use the sports equipment for exercise. Moreover, the videos provided can keep things fresh, which can promote and maintain users' willingness to use the equipment.

[0102] Preferably, the user device 70 may store small text files (cookies) corresponding to each login webpage 71. The login webpage 71 will adjust its webpage content or response based on the information in the small text files stored by the user device 70. For example, the small text file records media files that the user device 70 has previously played, making it easier for the login webpage 71 to select media files that the user has not viewed. As another example, the small text file records the user's login account, password, access permissions, etc., which the login webpage 71 can use to determine the number, type, or level of media files granted to that user (or user device).

[0103] Please see Figure 11 One application of the above system allows a user to sequentially use multiple exercise devices to perform a series of exercises, such as circuit training. This application includes:

[0104] (1) The user uses the image capturing device of his / her user device 70 to capture a first machine-readable code on a first type of exercise equipment (such as a treadmill or a weight training machine for training the upper body).

[0105] (2) User device 70 connects to a computer network via a wireless network interface and accesses a first login webpage that is redirected by a first predetermined URL contained in a first machine-readable code;

[0106] (3) The image display device of the user device 70 displays the content of the first login webpage, which includes one or more video options. Each video option can be connected to a non-fixed first type media file automatically selected from a certain number of first type media files. The audio-visual content of the first type media file connected to any video option in the first login webpage can guide the user of the first type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined time using the first type of exercise equipment.

[0107] (4) The user instructs the user device 70 to play the audio-visual content of a first type of media file linked to a video option in the first login webpage;

[0108] (5) User device 70 plays the audio and video content of the first type of media file specified by the user in the form of streaming media;

[0109] (6) While the user device 70 is playing the audio-visual content of the first type of media file, the user uses the first type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined period of time, guided by the audio-visual content.

[0110] (7) The user uses the image capturing device of the user device 70 to capture a second machine-readable code on a second type of exercise equipment (such as a stationary bicycle or a weight training machine for training the lower body);

[0111] (8) User device 70 connects to a computer network via a wireless network interface and accesses a second login webpage that is redirected by a second predetermined URL contained in a second machine-readable code;

[0112] (9) The image display device of the user device 70 displays the content of the second login webpage, which includes one or more video options. Each video option can be connected to a non-fixed second type media file automatically selected from a certain number of second type media files. The audio-visual content of the second type media file connected to any video option in the second login webpage can guide the user of the second type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined duration using the second type of exercise equipment.

[0113] (10) The user instructs the user device 70 to play the audio-visual content of a second type of media file linked to a video option in the second login webpage;

[0114] (11) User device 70 plays the audio-visual content of a second type of media file specified by the user in the form of streaming media;

[0115] (12) While the user device 70 is playing the audio-visual content of the second type of media file, the user uses the second type of exercise equipment to exercise for a predetermined period of time, guided by the audio-visual content.

[0116] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the present invention, and not to limit them; although the present invention has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some of the technical features; and these modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the creative spirit and patent protection scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. An application system for sports equipment, characterized in that The application comprises: a server connected to a computer network, managing a certain number of media files and at least one web page file; each of the media files has data corresponding to a video content, which is used to guide a user of an exercise equipment to use the exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time; each of the web page files can constitute a landing web page, each of the landing web pages provides one or more video options, each of the video options is connected to a non-fixed media file selected from the certain number of media files; the video contents of the media files connected by all the video options in the same landing web page can guide the users of the same type of exercise equipment to use the exercise equipment for exercise; at least one exercise equipment, the visible part of each of the exercise equipment is attached with a machine-readable code, the information carried by the machine-readable code contains a predetermined web address, the predetermined web address can be directed to a specific landing web page, the video contents of the media files connected by any of the video options in the landing web page can guide the user of the exercise equipment to use the exercise equipment for exercise; a user device carried by the user of the exercise equipment, having a processor, a user control interface, a wireless network interface, an image capturing device, an image display device and a sound playing device; the user device is configured to: when the machine-readable code on the exercise equipment is photographed by the image capturing device, the processor can interpret the predetermined web address contained in the machine-readable code, and then connect the computer network through the wireless network interface, access the landing web page directed by the predetermined web address through the server, and control the image display device to display the content of the landing web page; when the processor receives a command from the user control interface indicating to play the video content of the media file connected by a video option, the processor will request the data of the video content of the media file from the server, and control the image display device and the sound playing device to play the video content of the media file in the form of streaming media.

2. The application system of sports equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: The media file connected by at least one of the video options in at least one of the landing web pages is randomly selected from the certain number of media files and periodically replaced.

3. The application system of sports equipment according to claim 1, characterized in that: All the media files that can guide the users of the same type of exercise equipment to use the exercise equipment for exercise can be further divided into multiple categories according to the attributes of the guiding methods, exercise themes, training parts or time lengths of the video contents of each of the media files guiding the users to exercise; at least one of the landing web pages provides multiple video options, wherein different video options are connected to the media files belonging to different categories.

4. The application system of sports equipment according to claim 3, characterized in that: At least one of the exercise machines is a treadmill, a stationary bicycle, an elliptical machine, or a stair climber, and the landing webpage directed by the predetermined web address contained in the machine-readable code attached to the exercise machine provides a plurality of the video options, wherein the audio-visual content of the media file connected to one of the video options is a workout course in which a trainer uses the same type of exercise machine to perform exercises while verbally inducing others to imitate his / her exercises, and the audio-visual content of the media file connected to another of the video options is a continuously advancing outdoor scene.

5. The application system of sports equipment of claim 3, wherein: At least one of the exercise machines is a weight training machine that can be used to train a plurality of body parts or muscle groups, and the landing webpage directed by the predetermined web address contained in the machine-readable code attached to the exercise machine provides a plurality of the video options, wherein the audio-visual content of the media file connected to different ones of the video options is used to guide a user of the exercise machine to use the exercise machine to train different body parts or muscle groups.

6. The application system of sports equipment as claimed in claim 3, characterized in that: Each of the media files also has data corresponding to a title information and data corresponding to a representative image, the title information recording a brief information of the media file, and the representative image representing the audio-visual content of the media file with a representative image; After the image display device of the user device displays the content of a landing webpage, and before the user device can receive a command instructing to play the audio-visual content of a media file connected to a video option, the image display device displays the title information and the representative image corresponding to the media file.

7. The application system of sports equipment of claim 1, wherein: The user device can store a small text file corresponding to each of the landing webpages; at least one of the landing webpages adjusts its webpage content or response according to the data of the small text file stored by the user device.

8. An application system for sports equipment, characterized in that Comprising: A server connected to a computer network, managing a certain number of media files and a plurality of webpage files; each of the media files has data corresponding to an audio-visual content, the audio-visual content being used to guide a user of an exercise machine to use the exercise machine to perform exercises for a predetermined length of time; each of the webpage files can constitute a landing webpage, wherein one of the webpage files constitutes a first landing webpage, and another of the webpage files constitutes a second landing webpage, each of the landing webpages provides one to several video options, each of the video options can be connected to a non-fixed one of the media files that is automatically selected from the certain number of media files; the audio-visual content of the media files connected to all of the video options in the same landing webpage can guide a user of the same predetermined type of exercise machine to use the exercise machine to perform exercises; A plurality of sports equipment, including at least one first type of sports equipment and at least one second type of sports equipment; a user visible part of each of the first type of sports equipment is attached with a first machine readable code, the first machine readable code carries information including a first predetermined web address, the first predetermined web address can be directed to the first landing webpage, the video content of the media file connected by any of the video options in the first landing webpage can guide the user of the first type of sports equipment to use the first type of sports equipment for exercise; a user visible part of each of the second type of sports equipment is attached with a second machine readable code, the second machine readable code carries information including a second predetermined web address, the second predetermined web address can be directed to the second landing webpage, the video content of the media file connected by any of the video options in the second landing webpage can guide the user of the second type of sports equipment to use the second type of sports equipment for exercise; A user device carried by the user of the sports equipment, having a processor, a user control interface, a wireless network interface, an image capture device, an image display device and a sound playing device; the user device is configured to: when the image capture device captures the machine readable code on the sports equipment, the processor can interpret the predetermined web address contained in the machine readable code, and then connect the computer network through the wireless network interface, access the landing webpage directed by the predetermined web address through the server, so as to control the image display device to display the content of the landing webpage; when the processor receives a command from the user control interface indicating to play the video content of the media file connected by a video option, the processor will request the video content of the media file from the server, and control the image display device and the sound playing device to play the video content of the media file in the form of streaming media.

9. A method of using sports equipment, characterized by Comprising: A user of a sports equipment captures a machine readable code on the sports equipment with an image capture device of a user device carried by the user; The user device connects a computer network through a wireless network interface, accesses a landing webpage directed by a predetermined web address contained in the machine readable code; An image display device of the user device displays the content of the landing webpage, which includes one or more video options, each of the video options can be connected to a non-fixed media file automatically selected from a certain number of media files; the video content of the media file connected by any of the video options in the landing webpage can guide the user of the sports equipment to use the sports equipment for a predetermined length of time; The user instructs to play the video content of the media file connected by a video option in the landing webpage through the user device; The user device plays the video content of the media file specified by the user in the form of streaming media; During the playing of the audio-visual content of the media file by the user device, the user exercises the exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time as guided by the audio-visual content.

10. A method for using exercise equipment, allowing a user to sequentially use multiple pieces of exercise equipment to perform a series of exercises, characterized in that... comprising: The user takes a picture of a first machine-readable code on a first type of exercise equipment using an image capturing device of a user device carried by the user; The user device connects to a computer network through a wireless network interface to access a first predetermined web address contained in the first machine-readable code to be directed to a first login web page; The image display device of the user device displays the content of the first login web page, which contains one or more movie options, each of which is connected to a non-fixed first type of media file automatically selected from a certain number of first type of media files; the audio-visual content of the first type of media file connected by any of the movie options in the first login web page can guide the user of the first type of exercise equipment to exercise the first type of exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time; The user instructs the user device to play the audio-visual content of the first type of media file connected by a movie option in the first login web page; The user device plays the audio-visual content of the first type of media file specified by the user in the form of streaming media; During the playing of the audio-visual content of the first type of media file by the user device, the user exercises the first type of exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time as guided by the audio-visual content. The user takes a picture of a second machine-readable code on a second type of exercise equipment using the image capturing device of the user device; The user device connects to the computer network through the wireless network interface to access a second predetermined web address contained in the second machine-readable code to be directed to a second login web page; The image display device of the user device displays the content of the second login web page, which contains one or more movie options, each of which is connected to a non-fixed second type of media file automatically selected from a certain number of second type of media files; the audio-visual content of the second type of media file connected by any of the movie options in the second login web page can guide the user of the second type of exercise equipment to exercise the second type of exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time; The user instructs the user device to play the audio-visual content of the second type of media file connected by a movie option in the second login web page; The user device plays the audio-visual content of the second type of media file specified by the user in the form of streaming media; During the playing of the audio-visual content of the second type of media file by the user device, the user exercises the second type of exercise equipment for a predetermined length of time as guided by the audio-visual content.

Images