Media platform for exercise systems and methods

Abstract

In accordance with the present disclosure, there is provided a content distribution system for providing media content to users of exercise machines, the system comprising: a media database that stores media content, data associated with content providers, and data associated with application providers; a content management server configured to receive requests for media assets from users of exercise machines associated with a project and to deliver the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and a content distribution platform communicatively coupled to the media database and configured to facilitate the creation and delivery of media content to the exercise machines.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This disclosure claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 62 / 956,588, entitled "MEDIA PLATFORM FOR EXERCISE SYSTEMS AND METHODS," filed Jan. 2, 2020, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] (Technical field) The present disclosure relates generally to the creation, distribution, and use of media, and more particularly to a media platform for the creation, distribution, and use of media, such as music, for use in exercise systems and methods. [Background technology]

[0003] Digital media includes electronic files containing digital data such as audio, video, audio-video, multimedia, music, graphics, data, or other types of media-related content. Digital media may be stored, embodied, and / or distributed in a variety of electronic formats. For example, a digital media asset may be a music download created by a recording company or musical group for playback on a user's device (e.g., a smartphone with headphones), content produced live and / or streamed to a user, or other digital media content.

[0004] Digital media assets are often managed via one or more servers accessible over a network, such as the Internet or a wireless network. Content owners can use the servers to control and monetize the distribution and use of their digital media assets. Because traditional systems are designed to support traditional media use and distribution (e.g., allowing end users to purchase copies of digital media assets, such as music, for playback on their devices), they are often limited by existing business models and the processing, storage, licensing, and management systems associated with digital media servers. Thus, there is a need for improved systems and methods for efficiently managing the creation, management, monetization, and distribution of digital media assets.

[0005] There is also a need for a system and method for efficiently managing the creation, management, monetization, and distribution of digital media assets for use in exercise systems and methods. Such a system should be compatible with a variety of file formats accessed from a variety of content providers, servers, and platforms to enable control of digital media assets by content owners, intermediary service providers such as class instructors, and / or end users.

[0006] Conventional systems and methods lack efficient reporting, fee collection, digital rights management, and other features that leverage new distribution models and services that utilize digital content. For example, an exercise content distribution system may provide user-selectable live and / or archived exercise class content (e.g., video and audio of an instructor leading the class, music, etc.) for distribution to multiple exercise machines, such as bikes and treadmills. The challenge for content providers is to open access to digital media content to new business and usage models while efficiently controlling the management and distribution of the digital media content and the collection of revenue.

[0007] In view of the foregoing, there is a need for systems and methods for efficiently creating, managing, distributing, and monetizing digital media assets over networks, such as the Internet and wireless networks, and for systems and methods that enable digital content owners, digital media aggregators / intermediaries, and end users to control, access, and / or use various digital media content through an efficient interface. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The present disclosure provides systems and methods related to the creation, management, distribution, monetization, and consumption of digital media assets. In some embodiments, the improved systems and methods facilitate the creation, distribution, and consumption of content specific to an exercise environment, along with control and reporting at each stage of distribution. Help .

[0009] In some embodiments, the system and method for delivering exercise content to users of exercise machines includes a database for storing exercise content, data related to content providers, and data related to application providers; and a database for controlling the delivery of the exercise content to the exercise machines. Helpand a platform server operable to: deliver archived exercise classes for display on the exercise machines for selection by a user; receive selections from the exercise machines; transmit data representative of content of the selected archived exercise classes; receive performance data from the exercise machines based on the user's activity; and generate archived performance data representative of archived user performance parameters of a plurality of other users in at least some of the selected archived exercise classes. The data is synchronized and updated for display on the exercise machines to simulate a competition between the user and at least some of the other users.

[0010] In various embodiments, a content distribution system for providing media content to users of exercise machines includes a media database that stores media content, data associated with content providers, and data associated with application providers; a content management server that is configured to receive requests for media assets from users of exercise machines associated with a project and deliver the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and a content management server that is communicatively coupled to the media database and that manages the creation and delivery of media content to the exercise machines. Help and a content distribution platform configured to:

[0011] In some embodiments, a method for delivering exercise content to users of exercise machines includes the steps of: storing media content, data associated with a content provider, and data associated with an application provider in a media database; receiving, via a content management server, requests for media assets from users of the exercise machines associated with a project and delivering the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and controlling the creation and delivery of the media content to the exercise machines via a content delivery platform communicatively coupled to the media database. Help A method is provided, comprising the steps of:

[0012] The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, which are incorporated into this section by reference. A more complete understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, and a realization of additional advantages thereof, will be afforded to those skilled in the art by considering the following detailed description of one or more embodiments. The accompanying drawings will now be briefly described. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a digital content distribution system for use in an exercise environment, according to one or more embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an application server for digital media distribution according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a data flow diagram of a computing environment for digital media distribution using cryptocurrency, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] FIG. 4A is a rear perspective view of an exemplary cycling machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4B is a rear perspective view of an exemplary cycling machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A]FIG. 5A illustrates an exemplary user interface screen for a cycling machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B illustrates an exemplary user interface screen for a cycling machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5C] FIG. 5C illustrates an exemplary user interface screen for a cycling machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 illustrates an example of data flow for content creation and distribution for a cycling machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary network architecture for use with a cycling machine, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A illustrates an exemplary user interface for interacting with a music platform, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B illustrates an exemplary user interface for interacting with a music platform, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C illustrates an exemplary user interface for interacting with a music platform, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A illustrates exemplary song-level metadata for use in one or more embodiments of the exercise system and music platform of the present disclosure. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B illustrates exemplary song-level metadata for use in one or more embodiments of the exercise system and music platform of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Systems and methods according to embodiments of the present disclosure provide for the management, distribution, and use of digital media content for end-user systems, including exercise systems. The disclosed systems and methods enable efficient use of processing and / or storage capacity for the management, distribution, and usage reporting of digital media assets distributed over one or more networks, such as wireless mobile networks, the cloud, and / or the Internet. The disclosed systems and methods include improved access and handling of digital media assets by content owners, content aggregators, content integrators, and end users, including improved management and reporting of exercise systems and methods.

[0015] At a high level, rights to digital content, such as music, are managed by record labels, which control the actual recordings, publishers, which control the original music, and performing rights organizations, which control the performance of the original music. There is no central music database, making it difficult to aggregate ownership and licensing information. As described herein, digital content owners or licensors include entities that provide digital media assets, such as music files, video files, and other content, to distributors, digital media content integrators, and / or end users. Owners and / or licensors may impose certain user restrictions on the content of a digital media asset, such as play time, number of plays, type of distribution, quality, and license fees, which can be managed by the systems and methods disclosed herein.

[0016] The systems and methods disclosed herein can interface with various devices and applications, such as online stores, online music outlets, web portals, applications via connected exercise machines, mobile applications, or other entities or devices that distribute or consume digital media assets. For example, exercise machine users can access exercise content, including instructor-led classes, music, videos, and / or exercises, via the Internet. The exercise content can be customized by end users via the exercise machine and / or its associated application services. Exercise content includes digital media content created by third parties (e.g., exercise instructors), including licensed digital media content such as music and videos integrated with content-based and performance-based metadata for distribution to users. End users can access digital media assets while using the exercise device through one or more models, such as an exercise subscription with access to exercise classes, customizable content via an application interface, or other services.

[0017] 1, an example digital content distribution system 100 is illustrated, in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. System 100 enables an improved music and media content distribution model suitable for use with exercise machines and other devices. For example, a fitness instructor can create music playlists to be used for live or archived audiovisual fitness classes, which can be accessed by end users via content distribution platform 120.

[0018] The content distribution platform 120 facilitates the creation of content for end-user devices 150, such as exercise classes played on displays associated with bikes, treadmills, or other exercise machines. Help The content delivery platform 120 is communicatively coupled to the music database 110 (media database 110), for example, via a music application programming interface (music API 122). Content creators 124 can access the content delivery platform 120 to create media projects that include one or more media assets. For example, an exercise instructor can create a music playlist for an exercise class that includes music licensed from a content owner 104. The content delivery platform 120 handles media rights clearance, project creation for access by end-user devices 150, and tracking and reporting of each media asset used. Help An end user can request media assets related to a selected project (e.g., an exercise class), and the requested media assets can be delivered according to parameters compatible with the end user device 150 set by the content owner 104.

[0019] In various embodiments, the system 100 creates and maintains a media database 110 of digital media assets, including digital media content in one or more formats, distribution and licensing parameters, and associated metadata describing the media content. The content distribution platform 120 allocates one or more media assets stored in the media database 110 to one or more projects. HelpThe content distribution platform 120 provides interaction between the media database 110, content owners 104, content creators 124, and end-user devices 150, including adjusting parameters to create and distribute content that is compatible with the end-user devices 150, the intended users of the media assets, and the distribution and pricing parameters set by the content owners 104. The content creators 124 can create new content and incorporate media assets (e.g., music) in the media database 110 that meet the parameters set by the content owners 104. In various embodiments, the created content includes live and / or archived content that incorporates digital media assets owned by the content owners 104. For example, a live exercise class may include music that is distributed to end users for playback on end-user devices.

[0020] As shown, system 100 enables content owners 104 (e.g., content owners, licensors, publishers, etc.) to access media content via a network interface (e.g., network interface 208 of FIG. 2). The media content is controlled by an entity that is, for example, the creator, owner, and / or licensor of the digital media asset being distributed. The content and / or related content and data is hosted on one or more content host servers, such as external web or cloud services 106 and / or servers accessible via web or cloud services 108.

[0021] The content delivery platform 120 is implemented on one or more application servers, cloud servers, network servers, or other computing systems. It should be understood that the software platform may be implemented on any computing system suitably connected to the other components of the system. The system 100 also interfaces with a media rights management system 130 configured to track and collect royalties. A content management system (CMS) 132 controls the delivery of content to end-user devices 150. Help End user devices 150 include end user computing devices operable to interface with CMS 132, including computers, portable devices (e.g., handheld smartphones), wearable devices, televisions, smart speakers, exercise machines, or other devices (e.g., automobiles) capable of delivering media assets.

[0022] Communication between the various components of the system 100 occurs over a communications network, such as the Internet and / or a mobile network. Help It should be appreciated that any suitable communications network (eg, wired, wireless, cellular, wide area network, local area network) and communications path (eg, Bluetooth® connection) may be used.

[0023] In some embodiments, an end user operates an end user device 150 to access available classes through a content management server (CMS) 132. For example, an exercise machine may include a touchscreen display that lists available classes for a user to select from. The end user device 150 may request a class playlist from the content management server (CMS) 132, which then delivers the class playlist to the end user device 150. In some embodiments, the content management server (CMS) 132 obtains the playlist from the content delivery platform 120; i.e., the content delivery platform 120 sends the playlist to the content management server (CMS) 132. The content management server (CMS) 132 and the content delivery platform 120 may also exchange class dates and other class information. In some embodiments, the end user and / or end user device 150 has identification information associated therewith (e.g., end user device account name, password, Internet Protocol address (IP address), cookies, etc.).

[0024] The system 100 also searches for music from a music database 110 via enhanced metadata fields according to class parameters, user preferences, instructor preferences, etc., to select appropriate music for the exercise session. Help The media asset database 110 includes a search engine 134. In various embodiments, the content creators 124 can utilize the media asset database 110 to create end-user offerings, such as exercise classes that include a combination of instruction, music, and video. The content creators 124 can review the usage rules provided for each owner and asset and model their end-user offerings accordingly. The content creators 124 can control the end-user experience, pricing, and offerings, including end-user customization.

[0025] The search engine 134 may facilitate searching for music content based on, for example, instructor preferences or content restrictions from the content owner 104. Help In some embodiments, the music database 110 includes: predetermined Associated metadata for music is stored to enable searching for the content. For example, one or more requested digital media assets may have geographic restrictions. A content owner may want to distribute a particular media asset in the United States but not in European or Asian countries. Information regarding geographic restrictions is provided to the music database 110 and content distribution platform 120 by the content owner or licensor (e.g., content owner 104) and stored in the music database 110 prior to distribution.

[0026] The search engine 134 determines whether the music asset (digital media asset) is present in the music database 110 and available to the end-user device 150 via the request, and if so, proceeds to provide the music asset to the user. In some embodiments, the music database 110 stores project information related to the request, such as multiple music assets, usage within the project, royalty information, etc. In some embodiments, the search includes determining whether the user and / or end-user device has an active subscription or other appropriate authorization to access the requested content. If not, a user interface is presented to the end-user to establish membership, provide payment authorization, or offer other options.

[0027] The operation of system 100 will now be described with reference to an active exercise system. Music database 110 and content distribution platform 120 manage communications between content owners and / or licensors (e.g., content owner 104) and media rights management system 130 on the one hand and a network of content creators 124 on the other hand. Content creators 124 (e.g., exercise instructors creating exercise classes) create content and distribute it to end-user devices 150 (e.g., exercise machines) over a communications network.

[0028] As shown, each owner and / or licensor may communicate with a media database 110 and / or other content hosts. The content owner 104 provides access to music files to one or more network-accessible platforms. As shown, music assets are provided to a web or cloud service 108 for distribution of music files (e.g., MP3 files) to a content delivery network 140. The content delivery network 140 distributes the music content to a predetermined format (e.g., AAC) to the application server (e.g., SHF142), predetermined Altering musical content according to factors, such as tempo predetermined This includes generating metadata about the characteristics. In one embodiment, the SHF 142 server utilizes "something to hold onto factor" or other musical characteristics to determine musical attributes and / or visual accompaniment to engage the user in the exercise experience. For example, if an exercise class is set to a particular tempo, it may be desirable to select and / or play a song at that tempo appropriate for that class. In some embodiments, the system 100 provides the song tempo to the content delivery platform 120, predeterminedBeats per minute (BPM) and crossfade information is received, after which the SHF 142 streams the selected music with a tempo appropriate for the exercise class.

[0029] In some embodiments, digital media assets are provided in encrypted form that includes specific restrictions placed on the end user's use of the particular media asset, such as a usage limit for a period of time selected by the owner / licensor. This is useful, for example, if rights are granted to an exercise class and the owner wants to license based on a one-time use in that exercise class, or if the owner wants to set ownership to expire after a predetermined period of time (e.g., 30 days). Additional usage rules are available in various digital rights management software.

[0030] In some embodiments, a content owner may include various business attributes with each media asset offering, such as, for example, (i) a regional flag for the country in which the media asset is available, (ii) the sales price of the Product in local currency and numeric value for each such country or region, and (iii) the permissions for the Product included in subscriptions for that region, as well as other content, pricing, and distribution information. In some cases, a content owner may specify business attributes that are unique to only one or a few outlets available through the content distribution platform. Other controllable parameters include, but are not limited to, digital rights management terms, cryptocurrency terms, suggested retail price (SRP), start and end dates for various attributes, etc.

[0031] The systems and methods disclosed herein may be embodied in websites operating over the Internet or other networks, such as wireless networks. An exemplary application server 200 for implementing an embodiment of the content distribution platform of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. 2. In one embodiment, application server 200 may host websites running on a processor-based platform, such as a network server, hosted by a system administrator or another administrative entity. Help The platform includes one or more processors 202, a memory 204, and a database 230. The platform includes software instructions, including various logical components and processes as disclosed herein, stored in the memory 204 for execution by the processor 202. In some embodiments, the platform includes a content management module (e.g., a licensing and content management module 210) including digital rights management, a front-end and management server 212, a media server 214 (e.g., a Windows Media server) that enables playback and / or audio capture, a module 213 that provides content search and playlist creation, a business intelligence and financial reporting module 216 configured to track and report distribution and licensing data, a user engagement metrics module 218 configured to collect and analyze data related to the effectiveness of music selections on user performance, a cue sheet and metadata capture module 219 for use in project generation, and other modules 220.

[0032] In various embodiments, application server 200 may be configured to handle the creation, hosting, and delivery of digital assets in accordance with this disclosure. HelpThe platform is further configured to create, manage, and monitor one or more projects and membership plans for one or more partners to enable the one or more partners to publish and distribute digital assets or content to one or more end users, and to generate detailed reports regarding all activity related to the creation, hosting, and distribution of the one or more digital assets, including the creation, management, and monitoring of the one or more digital assets.

[0033] The database 230 and management modules (e.g., management module 212) are configured to host digital assets, such as media files, distribute the digital assets, and manage licenses provided for the digital assets. For example, the database 230 or management module 212 may provide licensing and reporting-only services, allowing a particular distributor to host a particular digital asset on its own server and distribute the files independently. The content management module 210 includes functionality to control and monitor bandwidth, download speeds, streaming play, and maximum volume capacity for all or a portion of the digital assets managed by the system. This functionality allows for careful management of budgetary constraints imposed on associated clients and associated digital assets.

[0034] The disclosed method includes a compensation provision whereby compensation to content creators or a subset thereof is charged as a percentage of total revenue. The disclosed system includes digital content distribution structured as a business-to-consumer (B2B2C) ecosystem between content owners, content creators, and subscribers / end users. The disclosed system provides a single platform between various parties that allows control of distributed content through a single access for each stakeholder.

[0035] An embodiment of the operation of the content delivery environment of the exercise system will now be described with reference to Figure 3. The content delivery environment includes a delivery platform 320, which may be implemented as one or more network servers as described above. The delivery platform 320 manages the delivery of digital content (e.g., media assets 342) to end user devices 304. Help A user 302 uses a client application to communicate with a merchant application 332 hosted on a merchant server 330. Help The end-user device 304 operates with a touchscreen display 306. For example, in one embodiment, a client application allows the user to view available exercise classes, select and customize available classes, and participate in selected exercise classes hosted via the merchant application 332 and delivery platform 320. The end-user device 304 is an exercise machine (e.g., a bicycle, a treadmill), and the client application on the touchscreen display 306 provides an interface for accessing exercise-related content via the merchant server 330. The exercise-related content may include fully generated content, such as pre-recorded audio and / or video content, and / or incorporate audio and / or video components customized in real time based on specific data provided by the end user and / or the exercise machine.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, content provider 340 provides access to media assets 342 through content host 350. Content host 350 includes a database 352 for storing and accessing media assets 354. Content provider 340 manages access to media assets 354 through a distribution platform 320 that includes a database 322 that stores content data 324 and subscription data 326. The subscription data 326 organizes media assets into unique subscription or membership models, allowing multiple subscription plans to be created and managed on distribution platform 320. Each such subscription offering can be configured as one or more subscription periods (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, 5-yearly, per-use, etc.), with each subscription period having its own price, and merchant outlets (e.g., via merchant server 330) offering separate subscription channels.

[0037] In various embodiments, multiple subscriptions are offered by merchants via mobile apps or web pages, with each merchant controlling its own branding, pricing, and content curation. One or more subscriptions are offered by distribution platform 320 via API services and integrated into one or more merchants' own over-the-top media platforms, mobile apps, or web pages. In some embodiments, for example, individual fitness instructors can curate their own subscription channels.

[0038] A user 302 can use a client application 306 to access an application 332 on a merchant server 330 to purchase a subscription and / or sign up for access to merchant content. The user can make a payment 308 (e.g., credit card payment, cryptocurrency) through the distribution platform 320, which then updates subscription data 326 to associate the user 302 with the subscription. After a content provider 340 creates a media asset 342 (e.g., a music album), the media asset 342 is provided to a content host 350. In this manner, the media asset 342 is made available via the merchant server 330 and the distribution platform 320 to users who meet certain access requirements, such as users who own a subscription. The user 302 can use the client application 306 to download or access the media asset 310 from the distribution platform 320. In some cases, end users stream the provided content. In other cases, the provided content may be dynamically customized in real-time or near real-time based on data input from the end user's exercise machine, in whole or in part related to the end user's athletic performance.

[0039] Next, referring to FIGS. 4A to 7, the distribution of exercise-related content is Help DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present disclosure enable efficient management of digital content, including the creation of multiple channels of distribution and payment models. The systems and methods disclosed herein offer many advantages to media consumers, content creators, and merchants across a wide range of applications.

[0040] In various embodiments, merchants may access a distribution platform to distribute and monetize their digital content. HelpA merchant can curate one or more channels of digital content targeted to various end-user scenarios and set pricing and distribution restrictions for the channels. For example, a merchant can sell an exercise machine that includes a display and audio speakers for playing video and audio content. A merchant can provide digital content targeted to users of the merchant's exercise machine, such as digital content related to an exercise class led by a class instructor. Users can access the digital content from the distribution platform using a local application associated with the exercise machine. The local application may be associated with the merchant and / or user, allowing the distribution platform to provide digital content associated with the exercise machine and / or user. In this way, users can be provided with targeted digital content options, and merchants can control the distribution of digital content to their exercise machine users to ensure a quality user experience.

[0041] The distribution platform also benefits content creators by facilitating the distribution and monetization of content. For example, exercise instructors can offer additional content through their channels and charge users for access to it on a per-use, per-subscription, or other basis. Users can engage exercise instructors through the distribution platform via local applications associated with exercise machines to provide tutoring, personal training, class instruction, and other exercise experiences. Instructors can establish one or more channels of instructor content on the distribution platform, thereby establishing subscription and other payment models. In some embodiments, instructors and merchants establish an association through the distribution platform, allowing instructors to distribute content through merchant channels in a manner that may include a revenue-sharing model.

[0042] While the embodiments illustrate examples using a cycling machine (fitness bike), exercise classes, and other exercise-related content, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to cycling machines and may be implemented with other exercise machines and / or other content generation and distribution applications. In various embodiments, the local system 400 includes a cycling machine 402 with at least one display screen 404 and integrated or communicatively connected digital hardware. The cycling machine 402 includes a frame 406, handlebar posts 408 for supporting handlebars 410, a seat post 412 for supporting a seat 414, a rear support 416, and a front support 418. The cycling machine 402 also includes pedals 420 used to drive wheels 422 via a belt, chain, or other drive mechanism. The wheels 422 may be heavy metal discs or other suitable mechanisms. In various exemplary embodiments, the pedal force required to rotate the wheels 422 can be adjusted using a resistance adjustment knob 424. The resistance adjustment knob 424 can directly or indirectly control a device that increases or decreases the resistance to rotation of the wheel 422. For example, rotating the resistance adjustment knob clockwise displaces a set of magnets 426 relative to the wheel, increasing the resistance to rotation of the wheel and, consequently, increasing the force the user must apply to the pedals to rotate the wheel.

[0043] The cycling machine 402 also includes various features that allow for adjustment of the position of the seat 414, handlebars 410, etc. In various exemplary embodiments, the display screen 404 is positioned in front of the handlebars in front of the user. Such a display screen 404 may include a hinge or other mechanism to allow adjustment of the position or orientation of the display screen relative to the rider.

[0044] The digital hardware associated with the cycling machine 402 may be connected to or integrated with the cycling machine 402, or may be located remotely and wirelessly connected to the cycling machine. The display screen 404 may be attached to the cycling machine 402 or located separately, but should be positioned within view of the user of the cycling machine 402. The digital hardware may include digital storage, processing systems, communications hardware, software, and one or more media input / output devices, such as a display screen, camera, microphone, keyboard, touchscreen, headset, audio speakers, etc. In various exemplary embodiments, these components are integrated into the cycling machine. All communications between such components may be multi-channel, multi-directional, and wireless or wired using any suitable protocol or technology. In various exemplary embodiments, the system may include associated mobile and web-based application programs that provide users with access to account, performance, and other related information from a local or remote personal computer, laptop, mobile device, or any other digital device.

[0045] In various exemplary embodiments, the cycling machine 402 may include various sensors capable of measuring various performance metrics instantaneously and / or over time from both the cycling machine and the rider. For example, the cycling machine may include power measurement sensors, such as magnetoresistive power measurement sensors, or eddy current power monitoring systems that provide continuous power measurement during use. The cycling machine may also include various sensors to measure speed, pedal cadence, wheel rotational speed, etc. The cycling machine may also include sensors to measure the rider's heart rate, respiration, hydration, or other physical characteristics. Such sensors may communicate with storage and processing systems near or remote from the cycling machine using wired or wireless connections.

[0046] Hardware and software within the sensor or in a separate package may be provided to calculate and store various performance information. Relevant performance metrics that can be measured or calculated include distance, speed, resistance, power output, total effort, pedal cadence, heart rate, respiration, hydration, calorie expenditure, and / or any custom performance score that may be developed in the future. Where appropriate, such performance metrics may be calculated as current (instantaneous), maximum, minimum, average, or total over time, or using any other statistical analysis. Trends may also be measured, stored, and displayed to the user, instructor, and / or other users. A user interface is provided to allow the user to control the language, units, and other aspects of the various information displayed.

[0047] In various exemplary embodiments, the cycling machine 402 may include one or more large display screens 404, cameras, microphones, speakers, or other audio outputs. The display screens 404 may be mounted directly to the cycling machine 402 or may be positioned within the user's field of view. In various exemplary embodiments, at least one display screen is integrated into or attached to the cycling machine and positioned in front of the rider, approximately centered on the cycling machine's handlebars 410, as shown. Various mechanisms can be used to allow the user to customize the position of the display screen.

[0048] In an exemplary embodiment, the display screen 404 may be attached to the cycling machine 402 via a curved structure that extends upward and forward from the front stem of the frame 406. The curved structure may have a slot or opening that passes through the structure and extends along a portion of its length. A mounting post or similar structure on the display screen is attached to the curved structure by a pin that passes through the post or structure and through the curved structure. In an exemplary embodiment, the pin may have a mechanism such as a screw thread that allows it to be tightened to hold and lock the mounting post or structure in a particular location and position.

[0049] The display screen 404 may be operated by a user input device, such as a touch screen, mouse, or other device. In various exemplary embodiments, the touch screen display is mounted to the cycling machine approximately centered between and just below the handlebars 410. The display screen may be any size, but optimally has a sufficient size and orientation to display various information, such as one or more video streams, various performance metrics of the user, and various controls.

[0050] In various exemplary embodiments, a user may use a touchscreen or other interface to selectively display various information on the screen, such as live and / or archived video, performance data, and information about other users or the system. The user interface may provide various control and information windows that can be accessed and removed individually and / or as groups by click, touch, or gesture. In various exemplary embodiments, such windows may provide information about the user's own performance and / or the performance of other participants in the same class, both past and present.

[0051] The user interface can be used to access member information, log in and out of the system, and access live content such as live exercise classes and archived content (see "Ride on Demand" in the diagram). User information can be displayed in a variety of formats, including past and current performance, account information, social networking links, information, and achievements. The user interface can also be used to access the system, allowing users to update their profile or member information, manage account settings such as information sharing, and control device settings.

[0052] 5A-5C, a user interface 500 is displayed on a display screen 504 to allow a user to manage their workout, including selecting information to display and adjusting how such information is displayed on the system. The user interface may display multiple types of information overlaid on one another, allowing the user to easily select or deselect different types of information. For example, performance information may be displayed on top of video content using translucent or partially transparent elements, allowing the video behind the information element to be viewed along with the performance information.

[0053] The user interface 500 may display various screens to the user, and the user can quickly navigate between the screens by using the provided user input device, including by touch if a touchscreen is used. In various exemplary embodiments, the user interface may provide a home screen that displays basic information about the system and available options. With reference to FIG. 5A , such a home screen may provide direct links to information such as scheduled classes 502, archived classes 504, leaderboards 506, instructors 508, and / or profiles, as well as account information 510. The home screen may also provide direct links to content, such as a link to join a particular class 512. The user can navigate between the various screens on the user interface by selecting such links using an appropriate input device, such as, for example, touching a designated location on a touchscreen or swiping to reveal a new screen. The user interface may also provide other information relevant to the user, such as social networking information, as well as navigation buttons for quickly navigating between the various screens within the user interface.

[0054] In various exemplary embodiments, a user can select from both live and archived content. For example, if a user selects upcoming classes 502, that class is displayed along with a screen showing a schedule of upcoming classes. The user interface allows the user to select classes by time, instructor, ride type, and to start a class that is in progress or starting now. The class schedule is displayed in any suitable format, such as, for example, a calendar, a list, or any other suitable layout.

[0055] In various exemplary embodiments, if a user selects archive classes 804, a screen is displayed showing available archive classes sorted by any suitable category. FIG. 5B shows an example display of archive classes. Thumbnails or icons 518 representing the archive classes are displayed in any suitable format. The thumbnails or icons 518 may include information about the number of times the user has previously attended the class or other performance or class-related information. A class may be accessed by selecting a particular thumbnail or icon.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 5C , while a class is being played on a display screen via user interface 500, in various exemplary embodiments, the primary video feed is displayed as background video, either full-screen or in a subwindow on the screen. Information elements are displayed in various portions of the display screen to indicate performance metrics, such as run time, elapsed time, time remaining, distance, speed, resistance, power output, total effort, pedal cadence, heart rate, respiration, hydration, calorie expenditure, and / or any custom performance score that may be developed in the future. The displayed information may also include trends and relationships between various performance metrics. For example, certain metrics may be indicated by color to indicate current performance compared to average performance for the class or over time, e.g., red to indicate current performance is below average and green to indicate performance is above average. Trends or relative performance may also be indicated using color and graphics, e.g., a red downward arrow to indicate current performance is below average.

[0057] Main window 520 displays the user-selected live or archived class. In various exemplary embodiments, performance metrics windows 522, 524, 526, 528, and 530 display specific performance metrics related to the user's current ride, past rides, or other performance information. These performance metrics windows may be displayed anywhere on the display screen and can be selected by the user to be displayed or removed by screen touches or gestures. As shown in FIG. 5C, window 522 displays distance and speed. Window 524 displays current pedal cadence along with the user's average and maximum cadence and class average, and indicator arrow 532 indicates an increase or decrease in the user's cadence. Window 526 displays power output in watts along with average power output, maximum power output, class average, and total power output, along with similar indicator arrows. Window 528 displays resistance, both numerically and graphically. Window 530 displays calories burned and heart rate.

[0058] The user interface allows the user to toggle between displaying maximum, average, and total results for various performance metrics. The user interface also allows the user to show or hide information elements such as performance metrics, video streams, and user information all at once or individually. Performance information can also be displayed in various display bars and can be shown or hidden in groups or individually. The user interface can provide full control of audio volume, input, and output, as well as display of output characteristics.

[0059] The leaderboard 534 may also be displayed to allow a user to see their performance compared to others participating in the same class. In various exemplary embodiments, the leaderboard may be configured to display the relative performance of all riders or one or more subgroups of riders. For example, a user may be able to select leaderboards showing the performance of riders in a particular age group, male riders, female riders, male riders in a particular age group, and riders from a particular region. The user may also be provided with the ability to deselect a leaderboard entirely and remove it from the screen. In various exemplary embodiments, the system may incorporate various social networking features, for example, allowing a user to follow other riders or create rider groups or circles. User lists and information may be accessed, sorted, filtered, and used in various other ways. For example, other users may be sorted, grouped, and / or categorized based on any characteristic, including personal information such as age, gender, weight, or based on performance such as current power output, speed, custom scores, etc.

[0060] The leaderboard 534 may be fully interactive, allowing, for example, a user to scroll up and down the rider rankings and select a rider to access that rider's detailed performance data. A connection may then be made, such as by choosing to follow that rider, or direct communication may be established, such as via an audio and / or video connection. The leaderboard may also display a user's personal best performance in the same or comparable class, allowing the user to compare their current performance with their previous personal best performance. The leaderboard may also highlight specific riders, such as riders the user is following, display other visual cues to indicate a connection, or provide other information about a particular entry on the leaderboard. In various exemplary embodiments, the leaderboard allows a user to keep track of their position (ranking) and performance information while scrolling through the leaderboard. In various exemplary embodiments, performance information about other users is displayed on the leaderboard 534 in any other format, such as a format that can be sorted by relevant performance parameters. A user may choose to make their performance publicly available to all users, selected users, and / or instructors, or keep it private so that no one can see it.

[0061] In various exemplary embodiments, the user interface may also display one or more video streams from various sources. For example, one video stream may be live or archived class content displayed in a main window, and one or more additional video streams may be displayed in other windows on the display screen 404. The various video streams may include live or previously recorded streaming video of an instructor, or any other video content, including one or more live video chat streams.

[0062] The user interface may also provide additional windows that can be used to display a variety of content, including additional performance data, information about the class, instructor, other riders, etc., or a secondary video stream. Such additional windows may allow the user to view various information about other current or past participants, compare performances, and open or close communication channels, such as audio or video chat. In various exemplary embodiments, the user may simultaneously access other content, such as movies, television channels, and online channels. Auxiliary window 540 may display a variety of information and content. Auxiliary window 540 displays the user's name, the name of the current class, and basic information about the current class.

[0063] Through a user interface on the cycling machine 402, the user can access a list, calendar, and schedule of live and previously recorded cycling classes available for streaming via the display screen 404. In various exemplary embodiments, when a user selects a class, the local system accesses and displays the class's primary data stream from the content distribution platform of the present disclosure. This primary data stream can include video, music, audio, text, or any other data and can display live or previously recorded cycling classes. The local system can include hardware video accelerated encoding / decoding to manage high-resolution video quality up to 680 pixels based on existing technology. The local system can automatically adjust the bitrate / quality of the class's data stream to provide the rider with the highest quality video depending on the user's bandwidth / hardware limitations.

[0064] In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system and method may include multi-way communication and data transfer capabilities that enable the sharing of video, audio, voice, and data between all users and / or instructors and various components of the content distribution platform of the present disclosure (e.g., merchant application servers, content providers, etc.). This allows users, wherever they are, to access and view multi-way video and audio streams from instructors and / or other users, or to establish direct communication with other users for private or conference-style video and / or audio communication while participating in a live or previously recorded class. Such data streams may be established through the local system 400 via the primary window, display screen 404, or for presentation in a secondary window. In various exemplary embodiments, users may manage multiple data streams to select and control input and output. The local system may allow users to control not only the volume of the primary audio stream for the class, but also other audio channels for different users, or even unrelated audio streams such as phone calls or their own music selections. For example, this allows users to maintain a conversation with other users without having to listen to the audio. Help Such data streams may be combined with media assets provided by one or more content providers through a content distribution platform.

[0065] For live classes, in various exemplary embodiments, instructors may have the ability to communicate with the entire class simultaneously or contact individual users to solicit feedback in real time from all users, regardless of location. For example, the instructor may ask users verbally or send them a pop-up message requesting feedback on difficulty level, music selection, subject area, etc. Users can then respond through their on-boarding system by selecting an appropriate answer or providing verbal feedback. This allows instructors to use crowdsourcing to tailor their classes to the needs of participants or to improve their classes through feedback requests or votes on specific class features or elements.

[0066] In various exemplary embodiments, an instructor may also set performance goals, and the system may measure and display the user's performance against the goals to the user and instructor. For example, the instructor may set goal metrics, such as a target power or cadence, and the system may display the goal metrics in a color-coded manner next to the user's measurements to indicate whether the user achieved the goal. The system may also allow the instructor to remotely adjust settings on an individual user's cycling machine.

[0067] In various exemplary embodiments, users can control access to their information, such as sensor data, performance metrics, and personal information. Such data may be kept on a local system, sent for storage and management on a remote system and shared with other users, or stored on a remote system but not shared with other users. Users may also choose to reveal their presence on the system to other users, or may choose to participate in classes without other users knowing about their presence. Such data can be securely shared with content creators to generate real-time media content in response to the sensor data, performance metrics, and other class-related information.

[0068] In various exemplary embodiments, a user may have access to a list of participants in all or selected current and / or past classes, including information such as the user's total power output, speed, cadence, resistance, or a custom score that provides information about the user's relative performance. Also, such a list may include controls for enabling the user to access live streams, such as a live video chat stream.

[0069] System Features and User Resources

[0070] In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system and method allows users to create accounts and store and manage their performance data. As described above, the system allows users to view upcoming live class schedules, sign up for future live streaming classes, and set reminders. Users can also invite other users to join live classes and set text, email, voice, or other notifications and calendar entries. Users can access their system, account, performance, and all other data through web-based or application-based interfaces for desktop and / or mobile devices in addition to the local system 400 user interface associated with their cycling machine 402.

[0071] In various exemplary embodiments, the system may provide for simultaneous participation by multiple users in previously recorded classes synchronized by the system, allowing access to all communication and data sharing features available in live classes, allowing riders participating in the same archived class at the same time to compete against past performances and "ghost" riders in the same class.

[0072] In various embodiments, the system can generate new media content in real time using information provided by local systems, such as sensor data, user and / or class performance metrics, user personal preferences (e.g., musical selections), and other data. For example, user selections and / or feedback regarding particular musical selections can be used to generate new music in a similar style.

[0073] Additional embodiments of content creation and distribution systems and methods are described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. Referring to FIG. 6, a local system 610 includes an exercise machine operated by a user and a processing system that generates one or more performance metrics and / or user preference information. The exercise machine has one or more sensors. During exercise, the local system 610 transmits session data 612 (performance data) to a distribution platform 620. In various embodiments, the session data 612 includes sensor data (e.g., resistance, cadence, user heart rate), performance metrics (e.g., speed, distance, position on a leaderboard), and / or user preference information (e.g., favorite music, exercise preferences). The session data 612 is provided to a rating / analysis engine 640 that analyzes media stored in a media database 644 and generates media metadata 646 for use in content creation on the distribution platform 620, etc. The rating / analysis engine 640 includes a metadata generation module 642. The metadata generation module 642 may include one or more machine learning modules (e.g., neural networks) for generating the metadata.

[0074] In one embodiment, the session data includes user performance information that is compared to the generated media content 662 to evaluate the effectiveness of the media during the exercise class. For example, if the user's performance information meets the instructor's exercise segment goals, the associated rating increases, and if the user's performance information falls short of the instructor's exercise segment goals, the associated rating decreases. Instructors (e.g., using application 652 via merchant server 650) can access the updated media content via content creation / modification / search module 640 when creating, modifying, and / or searching for exercise classes.

[0075] The content creation module 640 uses the updated media metadata 646 to recommend new media content, such as music or video content, for exercise. The content database 624 stores project data 626 used by the delivery platform 620 to generate media content for delivery to the exercise machines 610. The generated media content 662 may include a combination of generated and pre-existing media content. For example, a video of a class instructor and audio of the class instructor's verbal instructions may be combined with computer-generated music. In this manner, media content is periodically evaluated against user performance data, and associated metadata is updated to assist exercise instructors in identifying effective media for their classes.

[0076] Referring now to FIG. 7, an embodiment of performance-based metadata generation will be described. The metadata generation module 642 receives a data stream 702 used to generate and / or update metadata for a media asset. In various embodiments, the input data includes sensor data and performance metrics from an exercise session, user preference data (e.g., "favorite" songs) and other user data, media metadata from a media database, project information including the intent of the exercise session, attributes of similar songs, and other criteria. In one embodiment, the data 702 is provided to a feature extraction module 710, which extracts data characteristics used to generate media metadata. The generated characteristics are provided to a metadata generation system. The metadata generation system may include a trained neural network configured to receive the generated characteristics and output generated media metadata 730. The generated media metadata 730 may include one or more categories or ratings of the media.

[0077] In operation, a media content creator, as a content creator, may establish a channel through the distribution platform. The distribution system and / or media content creator may create music and video using input from the exercise system and / or user, thereby creating an artificial reality for the exercise experience. This artificial reality may be combined with content from a fitness instructor, e.g., audio from the fitness instructor, video from the fitness instructor, leaderboard information, etc. Media is dynamically generated and fed back into the channel for distribution to the local system based in part on the generated media metadata.

[0078] The systems described herein may be further configured to generate distributed vector representations for users of the system. In one embodiment, the exercise histories of multiple users over a given time frame are collected and their positions on a ride leaderboard are analyzed to form temporal sequences. These temporal sequences can be mined to calculate co-occurrences between users. The co-occurrence information can be processed using deep learning embedding techniques (Skipgram with Negative Sampling), matrix factorization techniques (CoFocator), or other techniques to derive distributed vector representations of users. In various embodiments, these vectors can represent user semantics, such as, but not limited to, preferred instructors, exercise duration, series, music preferences, and fitness levels. Users who frequently appear in similar classes and have similar positions on the leaderboard are considered to have similar tastes and fitness levels. Users who are similar to each other will have a smaller cosine distance between their vectors compared to other users.

[0079] The use of a distributed vector representation of users in the system provides many advantages over traditional approaches that represent users and user preferences with discrete categorical characteristics (e.g., a user's favorite instructor, a user's preferred exercise length, a user's preferred music genre). By using a distributed vector representation, the system can be configured to, for example, match riders based on similar ranking positions and similar user preferences, select songs similar to songs used in completed classes or exercise segments, or personalize class recommendations.

[0080] The use of distributed vector representations can also be applied to media in a media database to identify similar songs for an intended purpose. For example, a distributed content system can generate and / or recommend songs similar to songs in an instructor's class playlist. This can be useful, for example, when the selected songs have license restrictions or when keeping playlists up to date for users. The distributed content system can also identify songs preferred by users similar to the participants in the instructor's class (e.g., using the users' distributed vector representations).

[0081] Referring to Figure 8A, an exemplary user interface 800 is shown. User interface 800 provides media content selection, playlist creation, class creation, and other functionality that allows instructors to create and manage the content of their exercise classes. Help For example, the user interface may include functionality for managing class content 802 and tools 804 for searching available music through a music database and creating playlists based on factors such as beats per minute (BPM), genre, length, etc. The user interface 800 may be connected to a reporting module, a content management module, and other modules on the back end for managing the use and distribution of media content.

[0082] FIG. 8B illustrates a class planning interface 820 for a music platform, according to one or more embodiments. The class planning interface 820 may include a list of curated rides 822, menu options 824 for instructors to create and manage classes, information about individual rides 824, and a list of songs in a class playlist 826. Referring to FIG. 8C, an interface 830 may be used to create a class, including a class description 832 and class segments 834 with associated songs. This interface allows instructors to measure the effectiveness of songs against the instructor's intent. In various embodiments, the class planning tool enables class planning and submission, including timing calculations, segment naming, and data collection of class participants. Music / content searches may include fitness-related search criteria, as well as sorting and filtering by beats per minute (BPM), genre, length, year, etc.

[0083] 9A and 9B, examples of song-level metadata for use in one or more embodiments of the exercise system and music platform of the present disclosure are described. A song file 900 is distributed to the music platform from a content owner (e.g., a music label) with embedded data including ownership information (ISRC), genre, some timing, and / or other elements. The music platform stores the song 900, including the digital audio file 902 and metadata added by a distributor 904. The music platform adds additional metadata including analytics handles 906 (e.g., data for use in the exercise environment) and publishing information for rights management. Additional metadata can be added by the platform 908 to evaluate each song's suitability for programming against the instructor's specific intended outcomes. In some embodiments, the metadata further includes application-specific metadata 910 based on the end-user's engagement during the exercise session, allowing the platform to adjust the song's rating based on ongoing observations of effect versus intent.

[0084] FIG. 9B shows an example of application-specific metadata 910 for use in a fitness class application. The metadata includes fitness categories 920 and corresponding ratings 922 that evaluate the effectiveness of songs used in the particular fitness category. The metadata can be used in search, machine learning, or other applications to help instructors select effective music and other digital content for their exercise classes. In this manner, the instructor creates playlists and class segments in parallel. Music selections can be associated with specific segments, reflecting the instructor's intent (e.g., intense music for intense exercise segments, relaxing music for cool-down segments, etc.). Both playlist and segment data can include class plans that are ingested into a content management server. All songs and segments are known to the delivery platform when an end user joins a class session. Each end user's output can be measured along with other session data to compare against the instructor's intent. In some embodiments, this data is used to construct a rating that identifies the relative appropriateness of music selections to the instructor's intent for the segments. The system can provide feedback to the instructor about the performer of each segment and suggest alternative songs and segment suggestions to the instructor.

[0085] The song ratings used by the system can be continuously and recursively adjusted based on live data feedback from end users. Further utilization of this data can be achieved through the use of a "confidence" checksum, which provides a handle for weighting based on statistical significance. Songs that achieve high-confidence rankings can be further analyzed to derive, test, and refine hypotheses about specific characteristics that enhance effectiveness. The system can then analyze the estimated rankings and apply them to a broader library, including never-before-programmed songs and newly released songs. This proprietary data can be rented or sold, as desired, for applications to third-party fitness service providers, artists, or music rights holders.

[0086] In some embodiments, generated media content enables personalized content packages controlled by content creators. The distribution platform can independently track and manage content, including artificially generated content. Generated content can also dynamically change during an exercise session based on leaderboard information, data from other users, data from instructors, and other sources. In some embodiments, content creators compose music through an artificial intelligence system that receives data from users, such as speed, resistance, and heart rate, and generates media content corresponding to the exercise session. For example, the speed (beats per minute (BPM)) of a song can change based on the user's pedaling cadence. Video content can also change in a similar manner.

[0087] In some embodiments, users can select content from a variety of services, and the delivery platform can seamlessly combine multiple pieces of content for delivery to the local system. For example, a user can embark on a scenic ride using stock video while music is dynamically generated based on data from the exercise session.

[0088] It should be understood that the content generation and delivery system disclosed herein can be used for applications other than exercise sessions. For example, a patient may access a series of content (e.g., stages of physical recovery) managed through a subscription and watch a channel providing content about physical therapy. The delivery system can match and / or recommend content creators to users. The subscription service disclosed herein can foster a therapist / patient relationship and allow content providers (e.g., physicians or therapists) to track progress and usage, including sensor feedback, camera feedback, etc. In another example, the content generation and delivery system can be used in an educational environment to provide instructions to users in a controlled series of videos.

[0089] In various exemplary embodiments, the system may assign a unique identifier to each cycling machine to allow the system or user to track metrics of the cycling machine. This information can be used for user identification, maintenance, location, etc. In various exemplary embodiments, the system may also be configured to offer closed classes, allowing private instructors to teach individuals or small groups, or allowing groups of users to ride together with or without an instructor.

[0090] In various exemplary embodiments, a user can log in and access the system and account information via any suitable communication technology, including NFC, Bluetooth, a WAN, etc. Alternatively, the user may be equipped with a card key, FOB, or other device, and the cycling machine may be equipped with facial or voice recognition technology that allows the user to automatically log in and access the user's account information. A user can log in from their cycling machine at home or from any other cycling machine that has access to the system. This allows a user to travel and access their complete account history, all content, and all features from networked cycling machines in various locations, such as hotels, gyms, and cycling studios.

[0091] In various exemplary embodiments, a mobile application allows users of non-networked cycling machines to access the system and access content, live streams, and other system features via a mobile digital device, such as a tablet computer or cell phone. The mobile device can access the system over any suitable network using a dedicated application or a browser.

[0092] In various exemplary embodiments, the system can use one or more auxiliary display screens to display exercise class content. An integrated device, such as a tablet, can be used to display content provided by the system through the user interface. An auxiliary display screen can also be used to display content for exercise classes or other content provided by the system. The user interface automatically detects the availability of such devices and allows the user to select a display screen for specific content.

[0093] While the above description contains many details, these details should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure, but merely as illustrative of disclosed embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision numerous other possible variations that fall within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. For example, while an exercise machine is illustrated, it should be understood that the disclosed apparatus is one of many possible end-user platforms, and that a cycling machine is one example of many possible exercise machine options. In various embodiments, various data inputs from a device or set of connected devices may include, but are not limited to, speed, resistance, heart rate, temperature of the location, location (location on a map), brightness / darkness of the location, and known history about the end user (e.g., likes and dislikes, such as music genre preferences and artist preferences). Such data can serve to customize the content provided to the end user by the system in real time or near real-time rendering, including recommendations for pre-packaged on-demand content, or the actual rendering or modification of the content itself in response to such inputs. All such content and functionality may be compatible with channel subscriptions in the digital content distribution systems and methods disclosed herein.

[0094] Exemplary Systems and Methods

[0095] In one embodiment, a content distribution system for providing media content to users of exercise machines for computer-enhanced use in the home includes a media database storing media content, data associated with content providers, and data associated with application providers; a content management server configured to receive requests for media assets from users of exercise machines associated with a project and deliver the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and a content management server communicatively coupled to the media database and configured to manage the creation and delivery of media content to the exercise machines. Helpand a content distribution platform configured to: The content distribution platform performs the steps of: transmitting a plurality of available archived exercise classes to the exercise machine for display on the exercise machine for user selection; receiving from the exercise machine a user selection of one of the plurality of available archived exercise classes; transmitting data representing exercise content of the selected archived exercise class for display on the exercise machine; receiving from the exercise machine user performance data based on the user's activity as the user moved portions of the exercise machine while performing the archived exercise class; generating archived performance data representing archived user performance parameters of a plurality of other users in at least some of the archived exercise classes, the archived performance data having been previously generated by the user and / or one or more other users during their participation in the archived exercise classes; synchronizing the archived performance data, wherein the archived user performance parameters represented by the archived performance data are synchronized with the user performance parameters; and dynamically updating the ranked list of user performance parameters and at least some of the synchronized archived user performance parameters for display on the exercise machine to simulate a competition between the user and at least some of the other users.

[0096] In some embodiments, the performance data includes sensor data, user performance metrics, and / or user preference data, and the content delivery platform is further configured to forward the performance data to a content provider, receive updated content related to the exercise class from the content provider in response to the performance data, and transmit the updated content to the exercise machine. The updated content related to the exercise class includes computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from the performance data via a neural network. In some embodiments, the updated content related to the exercise class includes a combination of existing content and computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from the performance data via a neural network. The exercise content also includes computer-generated content including computer-generated music and / or computer-generated video, where the computer-generated content is generated in real time during a selected archived exercise class. The computer-generated content also changes in response to changes in performance data, including cadence, speed, and / or heart rate data.

[0097] In some embodiments, the content provider's exercise content includes exercise class content including audio cues from an exercise instructor and video content of the exercise instructor and / or scenery. The content related to the exercise class may be associated with running the exercise class on an application server. HelpThe content delivery platform is further configured to: maintain content restriction data associated with the stored exercise content by an application provider via an application, the application generating exercise content for delivery to the end user along with content associated with the exercise class; generate a plurality of channels, each having channel characteristics associated with the application server and / or content provider and defining at least one media asset; process a subscription request from an end user to one of the plurality of channels, the subscription being granted to the user if the content restriction data and the channel characteristics are satisfied; and deliver the channel media asset to the exercise machine in accordance with the subscription.

[0098] The platform server is further configured to process payments from end users according to the subscription requests and allocate portions of the payments between accounts associated with the application server and the content providers according to the access parameters, channel characteristics, and / or subscriptions. The database includes data organized by subscription model, the subscription model including multiple subscription plans defined by the content providers and / or application server that are created, synchronized, and managed by the platform server as subscription media channels.

[0099] In various embodiments, a method for delivering exercise content to a user of an exercise machine for computer-enhanced use in the home includes storing exercise content and data associated with a content provider and an application provider; and delivering the exercise content to the exercise machine, the delivering step including transmitting a plurality of available archived exercise classes to the exercise machine for display on the exercise machine for user selection; receiving from the exercise machine a user selection of one of the plurality of available archived exercise classes; transmitting data representing exercise content for the selected archived exercise class for display on the exercise machine; and receiving from the exercise machine a performance indicator for the user based on the user's activity as the user moved portions of the exercise machine during performance of the archived exercise class. generating archived performance data representing archived user performance parameters of a plurality of other users in at least some of the archived exercise classes, the archived performance data having been previously generated by the user and / or one or more other users during participation in the archived exercise classes; synchronizing the archived performance data, wherein the archived user performance parameters represented by the archived performance data are synchronized with the user performance parameters; and dynamically updating a ranked list of the user performance parameters and at least some of the synchronized archived user performance parameters for display on the exercise machine to simulate a competition between the user and at least some of the other users.

[0100] In some embodiments, the method further includes providing a media asset having a format compatible with the exercise machine, the media asset including content related to an exercise class for the exercise machine. The method also includes receiving performance data from the exercise machine, the performance data including sensor data, user performance metrics, and / or user preference data. The method also includes forwarding the performance data to a content provider, receiving updated content related to the exercise class from the content provider in response to the performance data, and transmitting the updated content to the exercise machine. In some embodiments, the updated content related to the exercise class includes computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from the performance data via a neural network.

[0101] In some embodiments, the updated content associated with the exercise class includes a combination of existing content and computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from performance data via a neural network. The method further includes generating the computer-generated content in real time during the exercise class and / or altering the computer-altered content in real time during the exercise class. The computer-generated and / or computer-altered content is altered in real time in response to changes in performance data, including cadence, speed, length, temperature, position, light, and / or heart rate data. The computer-generated and / or computer-altered content is altered in response to preferences set by the end user, songs, playlists, and genres selected by the end user, and / or historical performance data, including performance data from exercise classes previously participated in by the end user.

[0102] In some embodiments, the content provider's exercise content includes exercise class content including audio cues from an exercise instructor and video content of the exercise instructor and / or scenery. The content related to the exercise class also includes content related to running the exercise class on the application server. Help The media assets are delivered to the user by the application provider via an application that generates exercise content for delivery to the end user along with content related to the exercise class. The method also includes storing information about the media assets, the application server, the content provider, and the end user, and facilitating delivery of the media assets from the content provider to the application server and the end user device. Help and, wherein the storing step further includes maintaining content restriction data associated with the stored exercise content, the content restriction data including access parameters received from an associated content provider; generating a plurality of channels, each of the channels having channel characteristics associated with an application server and / or content provider and defining at least one media asset; processing a subscription request from an end user for one of the plurality of channels, the subscription being granted to the user if the content restriction data and the channel characteristics are satisfied; and delivering the channel media asset to the exercise machine in accordance with the subscription.

[0103] In some embodiments, the method further includes processing payments from end users according to the subscription requests and allocating portions of the payments between accounts associated with the application server and the content provider according to the access parameters, channel characteristics, and / or subscriptions. Storing the information includes organizing the data according to a subscription model, the subscription model including multiple subscription plans defined by the content provider and / or application server that are generated, synchronized, and managed by the platform server as subscription media channels.

[0104] In various embodiments, a content distribution system for providing media content to users of exercise machines includes a media database that stores media content, data associated with content providers, and data associated with application providers; a content management server that is configured to receive requests for media assets from users of exercise machines associated with a project and deliver the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and a content management server that is communicatively coupled to the media database and that manages the creation and delivery of media content to the exercise machines. Help and a content distribution platform configured to:

[0105] In some embodiments, a method for delivering exercise content to users of exercise machines includes the steps of: storing media content, data associated with a content provider, and data associated with an application provider in a media database; receiving, via a content management server, requests for media assets from users of the exercise machines associated with a project and delivering the requested media assets to the users in accordance with exercise machine compatible parameters established by a content owner; and controlling the creation and delivery of the media content to the exercise machines via a content delivery platform communicatively coupled to the media database. Help A method is provided, comprising the steps of:

[0106] Where applicable, various embodiments provided by the present disclosure may be implemented using hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. Also, where applicable, various hardware and / or software components described herein may be combined into composite components comprising software, hardware, and / or both without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Where applicable, various hardware and / or software components described herein may be divided into subcomponents comprising software, hardware, or both without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, where applicable, it is contemplated that software components may be implemented as hardware components, and vice versa.

[0107] Software according to the present disclosure, e.g., program code and / or data, may be stored on one or more computer-readable media. The software specified herein may also be implemented using one or more networked and / or other general-purpose or special-purpose computers and / or computer systems. Where applicable, the various steps described herein may be reordered, combined into composite steps, or divided into substeps to provide the features described herein.

[0108] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the disclosure to the precise form or particular field of use disclosed. Accordingly, various alternative embodiments and / or modifications to the disclosure, whether expressly described or implied herein, are contemplated as possible in light of the present disclosure. While embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, those skilled in the art will recognize that changes in form and detail can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. 1. A content distribution system for providing media content to users of exercise machines, comprising: a media database storing media content, data related to content providers, and data related to application providers; a content management server configured to receive requests for media assets from users of exercise machines associated with a project including an exercise class, and to deliver the requested media assets to the users in accordance with parameters compatible with the exercise machines established by a content owner; a content distribution platform communicatively connected to the media database and configured to facilitate the creation and distribution of media content to the exercise machines; a search engine configured to facilitate searching for musical content based at least in part on at least one of instructor preferences and content restrictions set by the content owner, and metadata fields in the media database, including application specific metadata fields including fitness categories and corresponding ratings assessing the effectiveness of songs used in the fitness categories; determine whether the searched musical content exists in the media database and is available to the user and the exercise machine via the request from the user; and provide the musical content to the user and the exercise machine if it is determined that the musical content exists and is available; A system comprising:

2. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The media database includes: The system stores parameters defining access and distribution controls for the media content, including at least one of a play duration, a number of plays, a type of distribution, a quality factor, and a license fee.

3. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The content distribution platform: (i) further configured to facilitate media rights clearance for the media content, creation of the project for access by the user via the exercise machine, and tracking and reporting of the media content used; (ii) further configured to create and maintain said media database, said media database including media content in one or more formats, distribution and licensing parameters, and associated metadata describing said media content; (iii) further configured to facilitate allocation of one or more media assets stored in the media database to one or more of the projects; (iv) further configured to facilitate interaction between the media database, content owners, content creators, and end-user devices, including adjusting parameters to create and distribute content compatible with distribution and pricing parameters established by the users of the media content, the exercise machine, and content owners; or (v) a system further configured to facilitate the creation of new content including media content from said media database that meets parameters controlled by said content owner.

4. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The system, wherein the media content and / or related content and data is hosted on one or more content host servers.

5. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The system further comprises an interface to a media rights management service configured to track and collect royalties.

6. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, the user operates the exercise machine to access the exercise classes available via the content management server; the user, via the exercise machine, requests the exercise class playlist from the content management server, which then distributes the exercise class playlist to the exercise machine; The content management server requests the playlist from the content distribution platform.

7. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The search engine facilitates searching for music from the media database via the enriched metadata fields according to at least one of the exercise class parameters, user preferences, and instructor preferences to select music appropriate for the exercise class.

8. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The system, wherein the search engine is further configured to determine whether the user and / or the exercise machine is authorized to access the music content requested by the user.

9. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, the media database is configured to facilitate content creators in creating user media content offerings including the exercise classes that include a combination of instruction, music, and video; The system, wherein the media database is further configured to facilitate content creators' control of user experience, pricing, and offerings, and user customization, including facilitating an interface that provides a display of usage rules established by content owners for each media content.

10. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, the media database stores metadata associated with music content that enables searching for predetermined music content; The system, wherein the metadata includes geographic restrictions for one or more requested media assets.

11. 11. The content distribution system according to claim 10, The system wherein the information regarding the geographic restrictions is provided to the media database and the content distribution platform by a content owner or licensor and stored in the media database prior to distribution.

12. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The media database stores project information related to the request from the user, including royalty information for a plurality of music assets used within the project.

13. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The media database and the content distribution platform manage communications between (i) content owners, licensors, and content management systems and (ii) a network of content creators.

14. 14. The content distribution system according to claim 13, The content distribution system is configured to enable a content creator to create and distribute media content to the users and the exercise machines over a communications network.

15. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The content distribution system transmits music content in a predetermined format to an application server for altering the music content according to predetermined factors, including generating metadata for predetermined characteristics including tempo.

16. 16. The content distribution system according to claim 15, The system wherein the application server utilizes factor-holding elements to determine selected musical attributes and / or visual accompaniment for the user.

17. 17. A content distribution system according to claim 16, the factor carrying elements include tempo and / or crossfade information; the application server is configured to select and / or play music based at least in part on the tempo; The system further comprises a server of the factor holding element streaming selected music at a tempo appropriate for the exercise class.

18. 2. The content distribution system according to claim 1, The content distribution platform: transmitting a plurality of the available archived exercise classes to the exercise machine for display on the exercise machine for selection by the user; receiving, from the exercise machine, a user selection of one of a plurality of available archived exercise classes; transmitting data representing exercise content of the selected archived exercise class for display on the exercise machine; receiving, from the exercise machine, performance data of the user based on the user's activity when the user moved portions of the exercise machine during the archived exercise class; generating archived performance data representative of archived user performance parameters of a plurality of other users during at least a portion of the archived exercise class, the archived performance data having been previously generated by the user and / or one or more other users during participation in the archived exercise class; synchronizing the archived performance data, wherein the archived user performance parameters represented by the archived performance data are synchronized with the user performance parameters; dynamically updating the ranked list of user performance parameters and at least a portion of the synchronized archived user performance parameters for display on the exercise machine to simulate a competition between the user and at least a portion of other users; A system that implements the above.

19. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, The system, wherein the performance data includes sensor data, user performance metrics, and / or user preference data.

20. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, The content distribution platform: transferring the performance data to the content provider; receiving updated content related to the exercise class from the content provider in response to the performance data; transmitting the update content to the exercise machine.

21. 21. A content distribution system according to claim 20, (i) the updated content related to the exercise class includes computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from the performance data via a neural network; or The system, wherein the updated content related to the exercise class includes a combination of existing content and computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from the performance data via a neural network.

22. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, the exercise content includes computer-generated content, including computer-generated music and / or computer-generated video; The system wherein the computer-generated content is generated in real time during the selected archived exercise class.

23. 23. A content distribution system according to claim 22, comprising: The system, wherein the computer-generated content is altered in response to changes in the performance data, including cadence, speed, and / or heart rate data.

24. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, The system, wherein the exercise content of the content provider includes exercise class content including audio cues from an exercise instructor and video content of the exercise instructor and / or scenery.

25. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, The content related to the exercise class includes: delivered to the user by the application provider via an application that facilitates running the exercise class on an application server; The application generates exercise content for delivery to end users along with the content related to the exercise class.

26. 20. The content distribution system of claim 18, The content distribution platform: maintaining content restriction data associated with the stored exercise content, the content restriction data including access parameters received from associated content providers; generating a plurality of channels, each of the channels having channel characteristics associated with an application server and / or a content provider and defining at least one media asset; processing a request for a subscription from an end user to one of the plurality of channels, the subscription being granted to the user if the subscription satisfies the content restriction data and the channel characteristics; delivering channel media assets to the exercise machine in accordance with the subscription; The system is further configured to:

27. 1. A method for delivering exercise content to a user of an exercise machine, comprising: storing media content, data related to content providers, and data related to application providers in a media database; receiving, via a content management server, a request for a media asset from a user of an exercise machine associated with a project including an exercise class, and delivering the requested media asset to the user according to parameters compatible with the exercise machine established by a content owner; facilitating the creation and distribution of the media content to the exercise machine via a content distribution platform communicatively coupled to the media database; searching, by a search engine, for music content based at least in part on at least one of instructor preferences and content restrictions set by the content owner, and metadata fields in the media database, including application specific metadata fields including fitness categories and corresponding ratings assessing the effectiveness of songs used in the fitness categories; determining whether the retrieved music content exists in the media database and is available to the user and the exercise machine via the request from the user, and if it is determined that the music content exists and is available, providing the music content to the user and the exercise machine; A method comprising:

28. 28. The method of claim 27, Storing parameters in the media database that define access and distribution controls for the media content, including at least one of play duration, number of plays, type of distribution, quality factor, and / or license fee.

29. 28. The method of claim 27, The content distribution platform: (i) facilitating media rights clearance, creation of the project for access by the user via the exercise machine, and tracking and reporting of the media content used; (ii) creating and maintaining said media database, which includes media content in one or more formats, distribution and licensing parameters, and associated metadata describing said media content; (iii) facilitating the allocation of one or more media assets stored in said media database to one or more of said projects; or (iv) interacting between the media database, content owners, content creators, and end user devices, including adjusting parameters to create and distribute content compatible with distribution and pricing parameters set by the users of the media content, the exercise machine, and content owners.

30. 28. The method of claim 27, By content creators The method further includes creating new content that includes media content from the media database that meets parameters controlled by the content owner.

31. 28. The method of claim 27, The method, wherein the media content and / or related content and data is hosted on one or more content host servers.

32. 28. The method of claim 27, A method wherein the system for implementing the method further comprises an interface to a media rights management service configured to track and collect royalties.

33. 28. The method of claim 27, the user operates the exercise machine to access the exercise classes available via the content management server; the user, via the exercise machine, requests the exercise class playlist from the content management server, which then distributes the exercise class playlist to the exercise machine; The content management server requests a playlist of the exercise classes from the content delivery platform.

34. 28. The method of claim 27, The method, wherein the step of searching for music content includes searching, by the search engine, for music from the media database via the enriched metadata fields according to at least one of parameters of the exercise class, user preferences, and instructor preferences.

35. 28. The method of claim 27, The method further includes creating a user offering that includes the exercise class, the user offering including a combination of instructions, music, and video.

36. 28. The method of claim 27, displaying to the content creator usage rules established by the content owner for each media asset and associated user submission; and controlling the user experience, pricing, and offerings, including available user customization, by the content creator.

37. 28. The method of claim 27, storing metadata associated with music content in the media database; and facilitating a search for predetermined music content based on the metadata; The method, wherein the metadata includes geographic restrictions for one or more media assets.

38. 38. The method of claim 37, The method wherein the geographic restriction information is provided to the media database and the content distribution platform by a content owner or licensor and stored in the media database prior to distribution.

39. 28. The method of claim 27, The method of claim 1, wherein the media database stores project information associated with the request from the user, including royalty information for a plurality of music assets used within the project.

40. 28. The method of claim 27, The method, wherein the media database and the content distribution platform manage communications between (i) content owners, licensors, and content management systems and (ii) a network of content creators who create and distribute content to the users and / or the exercise machines over a communications network.

41. 28. The method of claim 27, The method further includes transmitting the musical content in a predetermined format to an application server for altering the musical content according to predetermined factors, including generating metadata for predetermined characteristics including tempo.

42. 42. The method of claim 41 , The method, wherein the application server utilizes factor preserving elements to determine musical attributes and / or visual accompaniment selected for the user to engage the user in an exercise.

43. 43. The method of claim 42, the factor retention element includes tempo; The method comprises: selecting music and / or playing the selected music at a tempo appropriate for the exercise class; providing a music tempo including a predetermined number of beats per minute and / or crossfade information to said content distribution platform; and streaming, by a server of a factor holding element, selected music at a tempo appropriate for the exercise class.

44. 1. A method for delivering exercise content to a user of an exercise machine, comprising: storing exercise content and data associated with content providers and application providers; a distribution step of distributing the exercise content to an exercise machine; a storing step for storing information about the media assets, the application server, the content provider, and the end user; facilitating delivery of the media assets from the content provider to the application server and end user devices; The delivery step includes: transmitting a plurality of available archived exercise classes, archived exercise classes, to the exercise machine for display on the exercise machine for selection by a user; receiving, from the exercise machine, a user selection of one of a plurality of available archived exercise classes; transmitting data representing exercise content of the selected archived exercise class for display on the exercise machine; receiving, from the exercise machine, performance data of the user based on the user's activity when the user moved portions of the exercise machine during the archived exercise class; generating archived performance data representative of archived user performance parameters of a plurality of other users during at least a portion of the archived exercise class, the archived performance data having been previously generated by the user and / or one or more other users during participation in the archived exercise class; synchronizing the archived performance data, wherein the archived user performance parameters represented by the archived performance data are synchronized with the user performance parameters; dynamically updating the ranked list of user performance parameters and at least a portion of the synchronized archived user performance parameters for display on the exercise machine to simulate a competition between the user and at least a portion of other users; Including, the storing step includes organizing the data according to a subscription model; the subscription model includes a plurality of subscription plans defined by content providers and / or application servers that are created, synchronized, and managed as subscription media channels by a platform server; the facilitating step includes searching, by a search engine, for music content based at least in part on at least one of instructor preferences and content restrictions set by a content owner, and on metadata fields in a media database, including application-specific metadata fields including fitness categories and corresponding ratings that evaluate the effectiveness of songs used in the fitness categories; The method, wherein the distributing step includes determining whether the searched music content exists in the media database and is available to the user and the exercise machine via a request from the user, and if it is determined that the music content exists and is available, providing the music content to the user and the exercise machine.

45. 45. The method of claim 44, The method further includes providing a media asset having a format compatible with the exercise machine and including content related to the exercise class for the exercise machine.

46. 45. The method of claim 44, receiving the performance data from the exercise machine; The method, wherein the performance data includes sensor data, user performance metrics, and / or user preference data.

47. 45. The method of claim 44, transferring said performance data to a content provider; receiving updated content related to the exercise class from the content provider in response to the performance data; transmitting the updated content to the exercise machine; The method further comprises:

48. 48. The method of claim 47, The updated content related to the exercise class includes: (i) computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from said performance data via a neural network; or (ii) combining pre-existing content with computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content generated from said performance data via a neural network.

49. 49. The method of claim 48, generating the computer-generated media content in real time during the exercise class; and / or The method further comprising modifying the computer-altered media content in real time during the exercise class.

50. 50. The method of claim 49, The method, wherein the computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content is altered in real time in response to changes in the performance data, including cadence, speed, length, temperature, position, light, and / or heart rate data.

51. 50. The method of claim 49, The computer-generated and / or computer-altered media content includes: The method is modified in response to preferences set by the end user, songs, playlists and genres selected by the end user, and / or past performance data, including performance data from exercise classes previously participated in by the end user.

52. 45. The method of claim 44, The method, wherein the exercise content from the content provider includes exercise class content including audio cues from an exercise instructor and video content of the exercise instructor and / or scenery.

53. 45. The method of claim 44, The content related to the exercise class includes: delivered to the user by the application provider via an application that facilitates running the exercise class on an application server; The application generates exercise content for delivery to end users along with the content related to the exercise class.

54. 45. The method of claim 44, The storing step includes: maintaining content restriction data associated with the stored exercise content, the content restriction data including access parameters received from associated content providers; generating a plurality of channels, each of the channels having channel characteristics associated with an application server and / or a content provider and defining at least one media asset; processing a request for a subscription from an end user to one of the plurality of channels, the subscription being granted to the user if the subscription satisfies the content restriction data and the channel characteristics; delivering channel media assets to the exercise machine in accordance with the subscription; The method further comprises:

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