Connection Systems for Fitness Equipment

Abstract

The linkage system includes a sensor module having a sheave pin load cell sized and shaped to support a pulley of a strength fitness device. The sensor module also includes a sensor for detecting movement of the pulley as it rotates. The sensor module includes a processor and a memory storing machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the sensor module to acquire raw force data from the sheave pin load cell, acquire raw motion data from the sensor, determine corrected force data from the raw force data based on calibration data, determine corrected motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data, and output the corrected force data and the corrected motion data via a communications interface. The interface module may receive and display the corrected force data and the corrected motion data.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 63 / 433,259, entitled "Connected Muscle Force System for Retrofitting Fitness Equipment," filed December 16, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Background technology]

[0002] Some fitness equipment lacks built-in sensors or electronics that can track workouts. Typical add-on devices clip removably onto the machine's belt or cable (e.g., near the weight stack) to track movement and force. However, such devices are easily removed (stolen) or damaged by machine movement. Furthermore, while these devices display data such as repetitions, they require the use of specialized wrist straps that connect with manufacturer-specific apps, and therefore do not offer an easy, universal way to digitally export or collect exercise data. Summary of the Invention

[0003] This embodiment recognizes that because the cables or belts of strength fitness equipment are typically coupled to the weight stacks, modifications that change the length of the cables or belts, such as incorporating sensors to measure force and / or repetitions, are undesirable. Furthermore, it recognizes that devices that are easy to attach are also easy to remove and therefore more susceptible to loss (e.g., theft or falling off). This embodiment solves these problems by providing a coupling system that can be quickly retrofitted to the pulleys of the fitness equipment and includes sensors that measure the force on the cables or belts and the movement of the cables or belts. The sensors communicate with a computer module that processes the sensor data and calculates the work performed by a user of the strength fitness equipment. For example, the sensors may measure the force applied to the pulleys and the rotation of the pulleys to determine one or more of the exercise displacement, speed, and number of repetitions. Advantageously, this modification to the strength fitness equipment does not change the length of the cables or belts and therefore does not interfere with the operation of the equipment. Advantageously, this coupling system wirelessly connects to other devices (e.g., smartwatches, smartphones, and other mobile devices) without the need for dedicated accessories.

[0004] In one embodiment, the technology described herein relates to a coupling system for fitness equipment, the system including a sensor module having a sheave pin load cell sized and shaped to support a pulley of the fitness equipment, a sensor to sense motion of the pulley as it rotates, a communications interface, a processor, and a memory storing machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the sensor module to acquire raw force data from the sheave pin load cell, acquire raw motion data from the sensor, determine corrected force data from the raw force data based on calibration data, determine corrected motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data, and output the corrected force data and the corrected motion data via the communications interface.

[0005] In one embodiment, the technology described herein relates to a method for measuring a user's performance exercising on fitness equipment, the method including acquiring, in a sensor module, raw force data from sheave pin load cells supporting a pulley of the fitness equipment, acquiring raw motion data defining the motion of the pulley using the sensor and a pattern on the pulley, determining corrected force data from the raw force data based on calibration data, determining corrected motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data, and transmitting the corrected force data and the corrected motion data to an interface module.

[0006] In one embodiment, the technology described herein relates to a method of adding a linkage system to fitness equipment, the method including removing a sheave pin from a pulley that supports a cable or belt on the fitness equipment, adding an optical pattern to at least one side of the pulley, attaching the pulley to the fitness equipment using a sheave pin load cell where the sheave pin load cell replaces the sheave pin, and performing a procedure on the fitness equipment to calibrate the linkage system while the linkage system is in a calibration mode that measures force on the sheave pin load cell and measures movement of the pulley. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of prior art indoor strength fitness equipment that includes a support frame and a weight stack with selectable weights.

[0008] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an improved indoor strength fitness device that includes a sensor module and an interface module for detecting a user's performance, according to an embodiment.

[0009] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram illustrating in greater detail the pulleys, a portion of the frame, and a portion of the cables of the indoor strength fitness device of FIG. 2 prior to the installation of the sensor module, according to an embodiment.

[0010] [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is an isometric view illustrating the mounting of a sensor module on a pulley of the indoor strength fitness equipment of FIGS. 2 and 3, according to an embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is an isometric view illustrating mounting of a sensor module to a pulley of the indoor strength fitness equipment of FIGS. 2 and 3, according to an embodiment.

[0011] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a more detailed example of the sensor module of FIG. 2 according to an embodiment.

[0012] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a more detailed example of the interface module of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment.

[0013] [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of data flow for the improved indoor strength fitness device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment.

[0014] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example state machine implemented within a sensor module of the indoor strength fitness device of FIG. 2, according to an embodiment.

[0015] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for measuring a user's performance performing exercises on fitness equipment, according to embodiments.

[0016] [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for adding a coupling system to a strength training machine, according to embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] The following embodiments and examples describe indoor strength fitness equipment. However, the embodiments described herein may be applied to other types of fitness equipment without departing from the scope of the present invention. Types of fitness equipment may include rowing machines. Additionally, although the embodiments and examples describe measuring the rotational movement of a pulley using an optical pattern detected by an optical sensor, other types of sensors and patterns may be used without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, a magnetic sensor may detect the tooth pattern of a pulley.

[0018] 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a prior art indoor strength fitness device 100 including a support frame 102 and a weight stack 104 with selectable weights 106. A handle 108 is connected to the selectable weights 106 via a cable 110 passing over at least one pulley 112, such that pulling on the handle 108 applies force to the cable 110, causing the selectable weights 106 to rise. The indoor strength fitness device 100 is not smart and is not equipped with sensors to detect or track the performance of a user 120. Therefore, the user 120 does not receive any indication of the work done when using the indoor strength fitness device 100.

[0019] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a connection system 200 installed on an indoor strength fitness device 201. Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing in more detail pulley 212(1), a portion of frame 202, and a portion of cable 210 of the indoor strength fitness device 201 of Figure 2, prior to installation of sensor module 230. Figures 2 and 3 are best viewed in conjunction with the following discussion.

[0020] 1 or may be incorporated into the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 at the time of manufacture. The connection system 200 includes a sensor module 230 configured with the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 and an interface module 240 that is attached to the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 or separately attached thereto.

[0021] Indoor strength fitness equipment 201 includes support frame 202 and weight stack 204 with selectable weights 206. Handle 208 is coupled to selectable weights 206 via cable 210 that passes over at least one pulley 212(1) and 212(2) attached to sheave pins 214(1) and 214(2), such that pulling on handle 208 applies a force to cable 210, lifting selectable weight 206. When user 220 pulls handle 208, cable 210 exerts a force 302 on pulley 212(1), which in turn exerts force 302 on sheave pin 214(1) of pulley 212(1).

[0022] The coupling system 200 (e.g., sensor module 230 and interface module 240) safely and accurately measures, records, and monitors the performance of a user 220 using indoor strength fitness equipment 201. In particular, the sensor module 230 and interface module 240 extend the functionality of the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 and digitally couple the user 220 with its data. This has become a mainstream and expected feature in nearly all areas of cardio and performance training. However, to date, there are no effective retrofit options for enhancing the functionality of indoor strength fitness equipment.

[0023] The sensor module 230 and the interface module 240 may have at least one of the following functions: Load / weight measurement ○Weight accuracy ±0.5kg ○Weight reproducibility 99% ●Weight stack position ○ Iteration counting based on position and load (100% accuracy) Repeat tempo tracking (96% accuracy) ○ Position accuracy within the operating range is within 2 cm Weight stack speed accuracy 96% ●User information ○Setting previously used fitness equipment by the user ○ Weight values ​​used in previous exercise sessions ○ Historical data on user progress, weights, repetitions and sets ○Comparing current progress with the goals set by the user

[0024] The connected system 200 may also include the following features: measuring and displaying lifting rate, distance, and power; integrating with an athlete management system (AMS); including a web portal dashboard; compatibility with various smartphone devices (e.g., iOS® and Android®); and, if desired, team settings.

[0025] Advantageously, sensor module 230 and interface module 240 can be easily retrofitted to existing indoor strength fitness equipment, particularly any cable or belt-pulling type strength fitness equipment. For example, connection system 200 can be retrofitted to 90% of existing cable / belt fitness equipment (e.g., indoor strength fitness equipment 100 of FIG. 1) in less than 10 minutes.

[0026] Interface module 240 may include a display 242 (e.g., a custom TFT screen) for displaying data collected and / or determined about the exercise performed by user 220 on indoor strength fitness equipment 201. Interface module 240 may communicate, for example, via the Internet 250, with a server 260 (e.g., a remote server or cloud-based service) that collects, stores, processes, and / or shares data acquired by sensor module 230 and interface module 240. Interface module 240 may include a mount for attaching interface module 240 to frame 202 of indoor strength fitness equipment 201. Alternatively, interface module 240 may be installed or attached to another structure separate from indoor strength fitness equipment 201. In some embodiments, sensor module 230 and interface module 240 can communicate wirelessly, and sensor module 230 includes an independent power source (e.g., a battery (see optional battery 506 in FIG. 5 )). In other embodiments, the sensor module 230 and the interface module 240 may be communicatively wired, with the wire providing power from the interface module 240 to the sensor module 230, such that the sensor module 230 does not require a battery. In some embodiments, the interface module 240 is implemented by an app running on a user's smartphone or other mobile device (e.g., a smartwatch).

[0027] Figures 4A and 4B are perspective views showing sensor module 230 attached to pulley 212(1) of indoor strength fitness equipment 201 of Figures 2 and 3. Figures 2, 3, 4A, and 4B are best viewed in conjunction with the following description.

[0028] Sheave pin load cell 402 supports pulley 212(1) within frame 202 of indoor strength fitness equipment 201. For example, sheave pin 214(1) of pulley 212(1) is removed and replaced with sheave pin load cell 402, which is sized and shaped to functionally support pulley 212(1) within frame 202. Sheave pin load cell 402 detects the force applied to sheave pin load cell 402 by pulley 212(1) when user 220 pulls handle 208, causing cable 210 to lift selectable weights 206 of weight stack 204. Housing 404 of sensor module 230 is mounted on one end of sheave pin load cell 402 and contains electronics that couple to sheave pin load cell 402. An optical pattern 406 (e.g., a zebra stripe pattern) is applied to one side of pulley 212(1) facing housing 404, which includes an optical sensor (see optical sensor 502 in FIG. 5) that responds to optical pattern 406 as pulley 212(1) rotates. For example, optical pattern 406 may have alternating, regularly spaced colored regions that each represent an angular segment of pulley 212(1). In another example, optical pattern 406 is encoded to enable the optical sensor to identify the angle (e.g., absolute position) of pulley 212(1).

[0029] Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating a more detailed example of the sensor module 230 of Figure 2. The sensor module 230 includes the sheave pin load cell 402 shown in Figures 4A and 4B, an optical sensor 502, a communications interface 504, an optional battery 506, an analog-to-digital converter 507 (ADC 507), and a processor 508 communicatively coupled to a memory 510. In one embodiment, the ADC 507 is integrated with the processor 508. The memory 510 stores firmware 512 implemented as machine-readable instructions, including a force monitor 514, a motion monitor 516, and a communications manager 518, which, when executed by the processor 508, cause the sensor module 230 to perform the functions of the sensor module 230 described herein.

[0030] Force monitor 514 causes processor 508 to digitally convert (e.g., using ADC 507) and process raw force signals from sheave pin load cell 402 to determine force data 520, which can be stored in memory 510. Motion monitor 516 causes processor 508 to process raw motion data (e.g., optical information) from optical sensor 502 to determine motion data 530, which can be stored in memory 510. Optical sensor 502 detects changes in light intensity as movement of cable 210 causes pulley 212(1) to rotate, resulting in movement of optical pattern 406 relative to housing 404. The detected change in light intensity indicates a change in angular rotation of pulley 212(1), and may further indicate the direction of rotation. The measured angular rotation of pulley 212(1) can be converted to a distance traveled by cable 210 based on the radius of pulley 212(1). In one embodiment, the motion monitor 516 calculates the speed of the cable 210 as it travels and records the start and end positions of the movement to enable the distance traveled during an exercise to be determined. For example, the motion monitor may include a state machine (see, e.g., FIG. 8 ) that tracks the motion of an exercise performed by a user on the indoor strength fitness equipment 201. Advantageously, the sensor module 230 provides information that enables the interface module 240 or other connected device to track the speed based on the exercise plan and record the range of motion achieved by the user. For example, the interface module 240 may monitor the range of motion and provide an indication (e.g., by sounding an alarm or displaying a warning message) if the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 is not being used safely.

[0031] If calibration data 540 is provided, force monitor 514 corrects force data 520 based on calibration data 540, and motion monitor 516 corrects motion data 530 based on 540. For example, 540 may include one or more correction factors for the raw force data determined by ADC 507 from the output of sheave pin load cell 402 and one or more correction factors for the raw motion data output from optical sensor 502.

[0032] Communications manager 518 uses communications interface 504 to communicate force data 520 and motion data 530 to interface module 240 of Figure 2. Thus, force data 520 and motion data 530 may be used to determine work performed by user 220. For example, work performed is the product of force (force data 520) and distance (motion data 530).

[0033] In one embodiment, the communication interface 504 implements a short-range wireless protocol, such as Bluetooth® Low Energy (BLE), ANT+®, and / or Wi-Fi®, which is used by the communication manager 518 to wirelessly communicate with the interface module 240. In this embodiment, the sensor module 230 is self-powered and includes a battery 506 for powering the sheave pin load cell 402, the optical sensor 502, the communication interface 504, the processor 508, and the memory 510. The battery 506 may be selected to provide the sensor module 230 with a minimum operating time of, for example, 50,000 hours. In other embodiments, the communication interface 504 may include circuitry for driving a wired connection between the sensor module 230 and the interface module 240 and receive power from the interface module 240 via the wired connection. In this embodiment, the sensor module 230 does not include a battery 506, and the power received from the interface module 240 is used to power the sheave pin load cell 402, the optical sensor 502, the communication interface 504, the processor 508, and the memory 510.

[0034] Figure 6 is a block diagram illustrating in more detail an example of interface module 240 of Figure 2. Interface module 240 includes a short-range communications interface 602, a long-range communications interface 604, a processor 606, a display 642, and a memory 610 storing software 612 implemented as machine-readable instructions that, when executed by processor 606, cause interface module 240 to implement a communications manager 614, a display manager 616, a relay manager 618, a data manager 620, and a calibrator 622.

[0035] Communications manager 614 controls short-range communications interface 602 to communicate with sensor module 230 (e.g., wirelessly using BLE and / or ANT+®, or wired) and receive force data 520 and motion data 530. Data manager 620 processes force data 520 and motion data 530 to determine performance data 630 for exercises performed by user 220 on indoor strength fitness equipment 201. For example, data manager 620 processes force data 520 to determine resistance weight 632 and motion data 530 to determine one or more of repetition count 634, tempo 636, range of motion 638, speed profile 640, and word 642. Data manager 620 may also implement a calibration routine that processes force data 520 and motion data 530 to determine calibration parameters used to determine the actual value of performance data 630. Performance data 630 may include other metrics determined from force data 520 and motion data 530 without departing from the scope of this specification. In one embodiment, memory 610 includes a buffer for storing multiple sets of performance data 630.

[0036] The display manager 616 may control the display 242 to output information of the performance data 630. For example, the display manager 616 may generate one or more charts, tables, and animations corresponding to the performance data 630 (e.g., values ​​and charts showing one or more of the resistance weight 632, the number of repetitions 634, the tempo 636, the range of motion 638, and the speed profile 640).

[0037] The relay manager 618 may control the long-range communication interface 604 to transfer the performance data 630 to the server 260, for example, via the Internet 250. The long-range communication interface 604 may implement one or more of Wi-Fi®, LORA®, and / or cellular protocols.

[0038] Calibrator 622 is invoked to calibrate sensor module 230 to indoor strength fitness equipment 201. Sensor module 230 includes calibration data 540 that calibrates the forces sensed by sheave pin load cells 402 and / or the motions measured by optical sensors 502 based on the physical characteristics of indoor strength fitness equipment 201. As described above, sensor module 230 can be retrofitted to existing indoor strength fitness equipment 100, in which case the type and characteristics of indoor strength fitness equipment 100 may be unknown prior to installation of sensor module 230. Furthermore, sensor module 230 may be operated with different types of exercise equipment. Thus, once installed, sensor module 230 can be calibrated to improve the quality of performance data 630 generated therefrom.

[0039] In one example of operation, when interface module 240 pairs with sensor module 230, calibrator 622 is invoked to determine whether sensor module 230 is calibrated. For example, during pairing, sensor module 230 may return a status indicating whether it is calibrated. If the status indicates that calibration data 540 is not configured in sensor module 230, software 612 may automatically invoke calibrator 622 to prompt a user of interface module 240 to perform a calibration routine. In one example of calibration, calibrator 622 prompts the user to perform at least one predetermined maneuver on the fitness equipment while sensor module 230 collects force data 520 and motion data 530, which is sent to calibrator 622. The calibrator 622 then determines calibration data 540 based on the force data 520 and / or motion data 530 and the weights and / or motion values ​​of the requested calibration routine and transmits the calibration data 540 to the sensor module 230, which stores the calibration data 540 in memory 510. For example, the calibration routine may instruct the user to select a 20-pound weight and move the handle 208 a distance of 3 feet. In some embodiments, the sensor module 230 may be calibrated at the factory before installation, in which case the calibration process uses known weights. The force monitor 514 and / or motion monitor 516 use the calibration data 540 to automatically correct the force data 520 and / or motion data 530. The software 612 also allows the user of the interface module 240 to invoke the calibrator 622 at other times as needed.

[0040] In some embodiments, interface module 240 may allow the user to further define other characteristics of indoor strength fitness equipment 201. For example, if indoor strength fitness equipment 201 is equipped with a weight stack 204, the user may also define the corresponding weight step (e.g., 5 pound step, 0.5 kilogram step, etc.). Thus, the sensed weight may be limited to the nearest weight step. For example, interface module 240 may use at least two known weights to determine the raw strain slope and calibrate sensor module 230. Additionally, interface module 240 may recommend adding or removing weights to the user based on the user's performance during exercise.

[0041] The communications manager 614 may implement one or more protocols for interfacing with other fitness equipment. For example, the communications manager 614 and / or the short-range communications interface 602 may implement the Apple® Gymkit protocol, which may integrate the sensor module 230 and the interface module 240 within a fitness environment. In another example, the communications manager 614 communicates with a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone, a smartwatch, etc.) of a user of the indoor strength fitness equipment 201.

[0042] Data Flow Figure 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of data flow for the modified indoor strength fitness device 201 of Figure 2, according to an embodiment. The sensor module 230 is represented as a load digitizer 702, a quadrature encoder 704, a data processor 706, and a communication device 708.

[0043] Sheave pin load cell 402 outputs a raw force signal 701 that represents the force applied to pulley 212(1) by cable 210. Raw force signal 701 is digitized by load digitizer 702 and input to data processor 706 as raw force data 703. Load digitizer 702 is implemented, for example, by ADC 507 of sensor module 230.

[0044] Quadrature encoder 704 includes optical sensor 502 that captures raw motion data 705 representing the motion of pulley 212(1) caused by cable 210. Raw motion data 705 defines, for example, the distance (e.g., the angle of rotation of pulley 212(1)) and direction of motion of pulley 212(1).

[0045] The data processor 706 may implement a state machine (see FIG. 8 ) and / or signal filters for the raw force data 703 and / or raw motion data 705 to determine corrected force and motion data 707, which is output via the communication device 708. The data processor 706 improves the quality of the raw force data 703 and / or raw motion data 705 by removing noise and outliers. The data processor 706 also corrects the raw force data 703 and / or raw motion data 705 based on the calibration data 540 to form the corrected force and motion data 707.

[0046] The corrected force and motion data 707 is transmitted to the communication device 708, from which it is forwarded to the interface module 240 and / or the athlete management system 720. The athlete management system 720 may be implemented on a local device, such as a user's watch or smartphone, and will not transmit the corrected force and motion data 707 to the cloud fitness storage 730 unless configured to do so by the user. In embodiments in which the interface module 240 is an electronic device with a display attached to or near the indoor strength fitness equipment 201, the interface module 240 may be configured to transmit the corrected force and motion data 707 to the cloud fitness storage 730. Additionally, the interface module 240 may transmit other operational data (e.g., usage data, wear and predictive maintenance information, etc.) to the cloud fitness storage 730 and / or other cloud-based servers. The interface module 240 and / or the athlete management system 720 may store workout information in the cloud fitness storage 730, for example. The athlete management system 720 uses a standard protocol, which the sensor module 230 implements to output the data 707.

[0047] 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example state machine 800 implemented within sensor module 230 of indoor strength fitness device 201 of FIG. 2 , according to an embodiment. State machine 800 includes three states: an idle state 802, a lifting state 804, and a lowering state 806. Idle state 802 is the starting state and occurs when no force is detected by force monitor 514 and no motion is detected by motion monitor 516. State machine 800 transitions 812 from idle state 802 to lifting state 804 when motion data 530 indicates movement in a direction corresponding to upward movement of weight stack 204 and force data 520 indicates a weight at least equal to the minimum selectable weight of weight stack 204. State machine 800 transitions 814 from lifting state 804 to lowering state 806 when motion data 530 indicates movement in a direction corresponding to downward movement of weight stack 204. State machine 800 transitions 816 from lowering state 806 to lifting state 804 if motion data 530 indicates movement in a direction corresponding to upward movement of weight stack 204. State machine 800 transitions 818 from lowering state 806 to idle state 802 if any of the following occurs: (a) no significant movement is detected for a timeout period (e.g., 30 seconds), and (b) force data 520 indicates a weight less than the minimum selectable weight of weight stack 204. In some embodiments, sensor module 230 may include other types of sensors that detect when a user is no longer using indoor strength fitness equipment 201. In one example, sensor module 230 may include an infrared sensor that detects when a user is no longer using indoor strength fitness equipment 201. In another example, sensor module 230 includes a handgrip sensor that detects when a user is no longer gripping handle 208. In these embodiments, state machine 800 may transition 818 from lowering state 806 to idle state 802 when the user is no longer detected.

[0048] At transition 814 (e.g., when the state machine 800 transitions from the lifting state 804 to the lowering state 806), the sensor module 230 sends the force data 520 and the motion data 530 to the interface module 240, thereby indicating that one “repeat” has been performed. In response, the interface module 240 updates the display 242 to indicate the user's progress in the monitored exercise. At transition 818 (e.g., when the state machine 800 transitions from the lowering state 806 to the idle state 802), the sensor module 230 sends an idle message to the interface module 240, which may send a workout summary to the athlete management system 720 and / or store the workout summary in cloud fitness storage 730.

[0049] 9 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 900 for measuring a user's performance exercising on fitness equipment, according to an embodiment. Method 900 may be implemented, for example, in the connected system 200 shown in FIG.

[0050] At block 910, the method 900 acquires raw force data within the sensor module from sheave pin load cells supporting a pulley of the indoor strength fitness equipment. In one example of block 910, the sensor module 230 acquires raw force data 703 from sheave pin load cells 402 supporting pulley 212(1) on the frame 202 of the indoor strength fitness equipment 201.

[0051] At block 920, the method 900 obtains raw motion data defining the motion of the pulley using the sensor and the pattern on the pulley. In one example of block 920, the optical sensor 502 obtains raw motion data 705 indicative of the motion of the pulley 212(1) based on the optical pattern 406.

[0052] At block 930, the method 900 determines corrected force data from the raw force data based on the calibration data. In one example of block 930, the force monitor 514 causes the processor 508 to correct the force data 520 based on the calibration data 540.

[0053] At block 940, the method 900 determines corrected operational data from the raw operational data based on the calibration data. In one example of block 940, the operational monitor 516 causes the processor 508 to correct the operational data 530 based on the calibration data 540.

[0054] At block 950, the method 900 transmits the corrected force data and the corrected motion data to the interface module. In one example of block 950, the communications manager 518 causes the processor 508 to output the force data 520 and the motion data 530 via the communications interface 504.

[0055] The method 900 is repeated at regular intervals to measure the user's performance over time.

[0056] 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example method 1000 for adding a linkage system to fitness equipment. Method 1000 may be performed by anyone with basic mechanical skills to remove and replace pulleys on fitness equipment.

[0057] At block 1010, method 1000 removes a sheave pin from a pulley that carries a cable or belt of the fitness equipment. In one example of block 1010, a person removes pin 214(1) from indoor strength fitness equipment 201. At block 1020, method 1000 adds an optical pattern to at least one side of the pulley. In one example of block 1020, optical pattern 406 is added to pulley 212(1). At block 1030, method 1000 installs the pulley within the strength fitness equipment using a sheave pin load cell. Here, the sheave pin load cell is replaced with a sheave pin. In one example of block 1030, pulley 212(1) is reinstalled within indoor strength fitness equipment 201 using sheave pin load cell 402. At block 1040, method 1000 calibrates the linkage system by performing a predefined procedure on the strength fitness equipment while the linkage system is in a calibration mode that measures the forces on the sheave pin load cells and the movement of the pulleys. In one example of block 1040, the user invokes calibrator 622 and is prompted to perform at least one predetermined maneuver on the indoor strength fitness equipment 201 while sensor module 230 acquires and transmits force data 520 and movement data 530 to calibrator 622. Calibrator 622 then determines calibration data 540 based on the force data 520 and / or movement data 530 and the weight and / or movement values ​​of the requested calibration routine. Calibrator 622 transmits calibration data 540 to sensor module 230, where it is stored in memory 510.

[0058] Method 1000 is a relatively simple process that can take approximately 10 minutes on any type of fitness equipment that uses, for example, cables or belts with pulleys.

[0059] Changes can be made in the above-described methods and systems without departing from the scope of this specification. Accordingly, it should be noted that the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be construed as illustrative and not limiting. The following claims are intended to cover all general and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of applicability of the methods and systems herein, and may lie therebetween as a matter of language.

[0060] Combination of features The features described above and claimed below can be combined in various ways without departing from the scope of the present specification. The examples listed below are non-limiting examples of some possible combinations.

[0061] (A1) A coupling system for fitness equipment includes a sensor module including a sheave pin load cell sized and shaped to support a pulley of the fitness equipment, a sensor that senses motion of the pulley as it rotates, a communications interface, a processor, and memory storing machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the processor, cause the sensor module to acquire raw force data from the sheave pin load cell, acquire raw motion data from the sensor, determine compensated force data from the raw force data based on calibration data, determine compensated motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data, and output the compensated force data and the compensated motion data via the communications interface.

[0062] (A2) The embodiment of (A1) further includes an optical pattern formed on the pulley, and the sensor is at least two optical sensors.

[0063] (A3) In any of the embodiments of (A1) or (A2), the fitness equipment includes strength fitness equipment.

[0064] (A4) Any of the embodiments of (A1) to (A3) further includes an interface module having a second communications interface, a long-range wireless communications interface, a second processor, and a second memory storing machine-readable instructions that, when executed by the second processor, cause the interface module to receive corrected force data and corrected motion data via the second communications interface and to transfer the corrected force data and corrected motion data via the communications interface using a standard protocol.

[0065] (A5) In any of the embodiments (A1) to (A4), the communication interface and the second communication interface each include a short-range wireless communication interface, and the sensor module further includes an independent power supply.

[0066] (A6) In any of the embodiments (A1) to (A5), the communication interface and the second communication interface are connected by a wire, and this wire supplies power from the interface module to the sensor module.

[0067] (A7) In any of the embodiments (A1) to (A6), the interface module further includes a display and machine-readable instructions stored in a second memory that, when executed by the second processor, cause the interface module to output information about an exercise performed by a user of the fitness equipment based on the corrected force data and the corrected motion data.

[0068] (A8) In any embodiment of (A1) to (A7), the interface module further includes machine-readable instructions stored in the second memory that, when executed by the second processor, cause the interface module to store the corrected force data and the corrected motion data in cloud fitness storage.

[0069] (B1) A method for measuring the performance of a user exercising on fitness equipment, the method including acquiring raw force data into a sensor module from sheave pin load cells supporting a pulley of the fitness equipment, acquiring raw motion data defining the motion of the pulley using the sensor and a pattern on the pulley, determining corrected force data from the raw force data based on calibration data, determining corrected motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data, and transmitting the corrected force data and the corrected motion data to an interface module.

[0070] (B2) The embodiment of (B1) further includes filtering at least one of the raw force data and the raw motion data to remove noise.

[0071] (B3) The embodiment of either (B1) or (B2) further includes processing the corrected force data and the corrected motion data within the interface module to determine work performed by the user during the exercise.

[0072] (B4) Any of the embodiments (B1) to (B3) further includes determining, within the interface module, at least one of the number of repetitions, tempo, range of movement, and movement speed from the corrected movement data.

[0073] (B5) Any of the embodiments (B1) to (B4) further includes outputting at least two of the number of repetitions, tempo, range of motion, speed of motion, and work on a display of the interface module.

[0074] (B6) In any of the embodiments of (B1) to (B5), the transmitting includes detecting, within the sensor module, a state machine transition between an idle state, a lift state, and a down state based on raw operational data, and the transmitting occurs upon a transition to the down state.

[0075] (B7) Any of the embodiments of (B1) to (B6) further includes sending an idle message to the interface module to indicate the end of the exercise, and the interface module sends a workout summary to the athlete management system and / or cloud fitness storage.

[0076] (C1) A method of adding a linkage system to fitness equipment, the method comprising removing a sheave pin from a pulley that carries a cable or belt on the fitness equipment, adding an optical pattern to at least one side of the pulley, and installing the pulley within the fitness equipment using a sheave pin load cell, wherein the sheave pin load cell replaces the sheave pin and the linkage system measures force on the sheave pin load cell to measure movement of the pulley, performing a procedure on the fitness equipment to calibrate the linkage system while the fitness equipment is in a calibration mode.

Claims

1. 1. A connection system for fitness equipment, comprising: A sensor module is provided. The sensor module includes: a sheave pin load cell sized and shaped to support a pulley of the fitness equipment; a sensor that detects the rotational movement of the pulley as it rotates; a communication interface; a processor; a memory storing machine-readable instructions; The instructions, when executed by the processor, cause the sensor module to: acquiring raw force data from said sheave pin load cells; acquiring raw motion data from the sensors; determining corrected force data from the raw force data based on the calibration data; determining corrected motion data from raw motion data based on the calibration data; A coupling system that outputs the corrected force data and the corrected motion data via the communication interface.

2. The coupling system of claim 1 further comprising an optical pattern formed on the pulley, and wherein the sensors are at least two optical sensors.

3. The connection system of claim 1 , wherein the fitness equipment comprises strength fitness equipment.

4. further comprising an interface module; The interface module includes: a second communication interface; Long-distance wireless communication interface, a second processor; and a second memory storing machine-readable instructions; The instructions, when executed by the second processor, cause the interface module to: receiving the corrected force data and the corrected motion data via the second communication interface; The coupling system of claim 1 , wherein the compensated force data and the compensated motion data are transferred via the communication interface using a standard protocol.

5. The coupling system of claim 4 , wherein the communication interface and the second communication interface each comprise a short-range wireless communication interface, and the sensor module further comprises an independent power source.

6. The coupling system of claim 4 , wherein the communication interface and the second communication interface are coupled by a wire, the wire providing power from the interface module to the sensor module.

7. the interface module further comprising a display and machine-readable instructions stored in the second memory; 5. The coupling system of claim 4, wherein the instructions, when executed by a second processor, cause the interface module to output information about an exercise performed by a user of the fitness equipment based on the corrected force data and the corrected motion data.

8. the interface module further comprising machine-readable instructions stored in the second memory; 5. The coupling system of claim 4, wherein the instructions, when executed by the second processor, cause the interface module to store the corrected force data and the corrected motion data in cloud fitness storage.

9. 1. A method for measuring a user's performance exercising on fitness equipment, comprising: acquiring raw force data into a sensor module from sheave pin load cells supporting pulleys of the fitness equipment; acquiring raw motion data defining the motion of the pulley using a sensor and a pattern on the pulley; determining corrected force data from the raw force data based on calibration data; determining corrected motion data from the raw motion data based on the calibration data; The method includes transmitting the corrected force data and the corrected motion data to an interface module.

10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising filtering at least one of the raw force data and the raw motion data to remove noise.

11. 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising processing the corrected force data and the corrected motion data within the interface module to determine work performed by the user during an exercise.

12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising determining, within the interface module, at least one of a number of repetitions, a tempo, a range of motion, and a speed of motion from the corrected movement data.

13. 13. The method of claim 12, further comprising outputting at least two of the number of repetitions, the tempo, the range of motion, the speed of motion, and the work on a display of the interface module.

14. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the transmitting comprises detecting, within the sensor module, state machine transitions between an idle state, a lift state, and a down state based on the raw operational data, and the transmitting occurs upon a transition to a down state.

15. 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising sending an idle message to the interface module to indicate the end of the exercise, the interface module sending a workout summary to an athlete management system and / or cloud fitness storage.

16. 1. A method of adding a connectivity system to fitness equipment, comprising: removing a sheave pin from a pulley carrying a cable or belt of said fitness equipment; adding an optical pattern to at least one side of said pulley; using a sheave pin load cell to mount the pulley within the fitness equipment, wherein the sheave pin load cell replaces the sheave pin; 10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: performing a procedure on the fitness equipment to calibrate the linkage system while the linkage system is in a calibration mode that measures forces on the sheave pin load cells and movement of the pulleys.

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