Method, program, and computing device for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information

Abstract

An exercise device for measuring cardiorespiratory endurance information is disclosed according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The device comprises a handle unit and a footrest unit configured to move in the up-down direction by a user's operation, and a computing device configured to control the range of movement or the resistance of the handle unit and the footrest unit in the up-down direction according to a preset exercise protocol to provide an exercise load to the user, and, upon completion of the exercise protocol, calculate cardiorespiratory endurance information of the user on the basis of the termination point of the exercise protocol and exercise data collected during execution of the exercise protocol.

Description

Method, program, and computing device for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a method, program, and computing device for calculating a user's cardiorespiratory endurance information.

[0002] Generally, to evaluate cardiorespiratory endurance, methods that measure peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak) or power per hour using a respiratory gas analyzer, treadmill, or a dedicated ramp protocol for cycle ergometers are mainly used.

[0003] To measure cardiorespiratory endurance information on a treadmill, the subject first wears a mouthpiece and a nose clip. Then, oxygen consumption (VO2), carbon dioxide emissions (VCO2), and respiratory exchange ratio (RER) are measured in real time using a respiratory gas analyzer. A weighted moving average is calculated based on the measured values, and the highest value among them can be used.

[0004] To measure cardiorespiratory endurance information using a cycle ergometer, a torque sensor and an optical disc must be attached to the crank of the cycle ergometer. Real-time power output (W) is then recorded through these devices. Similarly, the subject must wear a mask for respiratory gas analysis. Through the test, a mechanical power curve relative to oxygen consumption per minute can be obtained.

[0005] Since the cycle ergometer ramp test primarily utilizes lower body muscles, such as the lower legs and thighs, the oxygen requirement is relatively low compared to treadmill running, which mobilizes the entire body. Consequently, peak oxygen uptake values ​​tend to be lower than treadmill measurements for the same subjects. Furthermore, existing methods require the use of respiratory gas analyzers, necessitating expensive masks, analyzers, and specialized personnel, making them difficult to utilize in general gyms, rehabilitation clinics, or home fitness environments. Consequently, the process is cumbersome compared to the demand from many users who simply want to check their physical fitness.

[0006] The present disclosure is conceived in response to the aforementioned background technology and aims to provide a method, program, and computing device for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information that can calculate cardiorespiratory endurance information using only information obtained from a single exercise device used by a user, without the need for separate additional personnel or analysis equipment.

[0007] However, the problems to be solved in this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned problems may be clearly understood based on the description below.

[0008] A method for calculating a user's cardiorespiratory endurance information, performed by a computing device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure for realizing the aforementioned objectives, is disclosed. The method comprises the steps of collecting a user's body information, collecting exercise data of the user from an exercise device that operates according to a preset exercise protocol, and, when the exercise protocol ends, calculating the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol, and the exercise data. The exercise device includes a handle portion and a footrest portion formed to reciprocate with a set resistance within a set movement range in the up-and-down direction, and the exercise protocol sets the movement range and resistance of the handle portion and the footrest portion.

[0009] Alternatively, the calculating step may linearly combine the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol included in the exercise data, and the range of movement of the handle and footrest parts.

[0010] Alternatively, the linear combining step may include a step of linearly combining the age, gender, weight, and body fat percentage such that they have a negative sign, and the height, body mass index (BMI), end point, and range of movement such they have a positive sign.

[0011] Alternatively, the exercise protocol may include a first section providing a constant exercise load and a second section that gradually increases the exercise load at preset time intervals, and the exercise load may be determined by the range of motion and the resistance.

[0012] Alternatively, when the above exercise protocol is terminated, it may further include a step of calculating the user's energy consumption based on the exercise data.

[0013] Alternatively, the calculating step may include a step of linearly combining the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol included in the exercise data, and the range of movement of the handle and footrest parts.

[0014] Alternatively, the linear combining step may include a step of linearly combining such that the age, gender, height, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) have a negative sign, and the weight, the end point, and the range of movement have a positive sign.

[0015] Alternatively, the above cardiorespiratory endurance information may include absolute VO2peak or relative VO2peak.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure for realizing the aforementioned objectives, a computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium is disclosed. When the computer program is executed on one or more processors, it performs operations for calculating the cardiorespiratory endurance information of a user. The operations include an operation of collecting the user's body information, an operation of collecting the user's exercise data from an exercise device that operates according to a preset exercise protocol, and, when the exercise protocol is terminated, an operation of calculating the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the body information, the time of termination of the exercise protocol, and the exercise data. The exercise device includes a handle portion and a footrest portion formed to reciprocate within a set resistance within a set movement range in the up-and-down direction, and the exercise protocol sets the movement range and resistance of the handle portion and the footrest portion.

[0017] According to one embodiment of the present disclosure for realizing the aforementioned objectives, a computing device for calculating a user's cardiorespiratory endurance information is disclosed. The computing device comprises a processor including at least one core, a memory including program codes executable on the processor, and a network unit for receiving exercise data of the user from an exercise device that operates according to the user's body information and a preset exercise protocol. When the exercise protocol is terminated, the processor calculates the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the body information, the time of termination of the exercise protocol, and the exercise data. The exercise device comprises a handle portion and a footrest portion formed to reciprocate within a movement range set in an up-and-down direction with a set resistance. The exercise protocol sets the movement range and resistance of the handle portion and the footrest portion.

[0018] According to the present disclosure, since cardiorespiratory endurance information can be accurately calculated using only a whole-body reciprocating exercise device that the user normally uses, without the need for expensive respiratory gas analyzers or separate equipment, the time and cost of measurement are reduced, and measurements can be performed safely and conveniently in general gyms, rehabilitation clinics, and home fitness environments.

[0019] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a motion device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a motion device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 3 is an exemplary diagram illustrating an exercise protocol according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 4 is a table showing an exercise protocol according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIGS. 5 to 9 are exemplary diagrams showing comparison results of a method for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of a computing device for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described below with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art (hereinafter, those skilled in the art) can easily implement them. The embodiments presented in the present disclosure are provided to enable those skilled in the art to use or implement the contents of the present disclosure. Accordingly, various modifications to the embodiments of the present disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art. That is, the present disclosure may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments below.

[0026] Throughout the specification of the present disclosure, identical or similar reference numerals refer to identical or similar components. Additionally, to clearly explain the present disclosure, reference numerals in the drawings that are unrelated to the description of the present disclosure may be omitted.

[0027] The term “or” as used in this disclosure is intended to mean an implicit “or” rather than an exclusive “or.” That is, unless otherwise specified in this disclosure or its meaning is not clear from the context, “X uses A or B” should be understood to mean one of the natural implicit substitutions. For example, unless otherwise specified in this disclosure or its meaning is not clear from the context, “X uses A or B” may be interpreted as X using A, X using B, or X using both A and B.

[0028] The term “and / or” as used in this disclosure should be understood to refer to and include all possible combinations of one or more of the enumerated related concepts.

[0029] The terms “comprising” and / or “comprising” as used in this disclosure should be understood to mean the presence of certain features and / or components. However, the terms “comprising” and / or “comprising” should be understood not to exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, other components and / or combinations thereof.

[0030] Where not otherwise specified in the present disclosure or where it is not clear from the context that the singular form indicates, the singular should generally be interpreted as including “one or more.”

[0031] The term “the N (N is a natural number)” used in this disclosure may be understood as an expression used to distinguish the components of this disclosure from one another according to certain criteria, such as functional perspectives, structural perspectives, or convenience of explanation. For example, components performing different functional roles in this disclosure may be distinguished as a first component or a second component. However, components that are substantially identical within the technical scope of this disclosure but must be distinguished for the convenience of explanation may also be distinguished as a first component or a second component.

[0032] The term “connection” as used in the present disclosure should be interpreted to include not only cases where the components are “directly connected,” but also cases where other components are “present” in between, and cases where they are “electrically connected” with other components in between.

[0033] The term “acquisition” as used in this disclosure may be understood to refer not only to receiving data through a wireless communication network with an external device or system, but also to generating or receiving data in an on-device form.

[0034] Meanwhile, the terms "module" or "unit" used in this disclosure may be understood as referring to an independent functional unit that processes computing resources, such as a computer-related entity, firmware, software or a part thereof, hardware or a part thereof, or a combination of software and hardware. In this case, "module" or "unit" may be a unit composed of a single element, or a unit expressed as a combination or set of multiple elements. For example, in a narrow sense, "module" or "unit" may refer to a hardware element of a computing device or a set thereof, an application program that performs a specific function of software, a procedure implemented through software execution, or a set of instructions for program execution. Furthermore, in a broad sense, "module" or "unit" may refer to the computing device itself that constitutes the system, or an application executed on the computing device. However, since the above-described concept is merely an example, the concept of "module" or "part" may be defined in various ways within the scope understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of this disclosure.

[0035] As used in the present disclosure, the term "exercise device" may be understood to refer to at least one piece of hardware that provides an exercise load to a user and enables them to experience an exercise effect. In this context, an exercise load may refer to resistance, weight, or other forms of resistance applied to muscles or the cardiovascular system.

[0036] The exercise device of the present disclosure may provide the user with varying sizes or types of exercise loads. The size of the exercise load refers to the size of the resistance, and the type of the exercise load may refer to the type of resistance. The type of resistance may include weight, elasticity, fluid, etc., and the user may experience different sensations if the type of resistance changes, even if the size of the resistance is the same.

[0037] The exercise device of the present disclosure may provide a user with an exercise method that provides an exercise load by varying the method. For example, the exercise device may set the magnitude of the exercise load so that the user performs isotonic exercise. For example, the exercise device may set the speed at which the exercise load is provided so that the user performs isotonic exercise. The method of providing the exercise load by the exercise device is not limited to any one of isotonic, isokinetic, isometric, isotonic, etc.

[0038] The explanation of the foregoing terms is intended to aid in understanding the present disclosure. Accordingly, it should be noted that unless a foregoing term is explicitly stated as a matter limiting the content of the present disclosure, it is not to be used in the sense of limiting the technical concept of the content of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 1 is an exemplary diagram showing a motion device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 1, an exercise device (100) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a support member (110), a handle member (120), a footrest member (130), a base member (140), and an input / output device (150), and although not shown, may further include a computing device, a sensing member (220), and a power providing member (230) which will be described later through FIG. 2 inside the base member (140).

[0041] The support member (110) can form the overall shape of the exercise device (100). The support member (110) may include a plurality of columns inclined to form a certain angle with the ground. Each column may be provided in a facing form and connected to a base member (140). Other components constituting the exercise device (100) may be attached to the support member (110). For example, a handle member (120) and a footrest member (130) may be attached to the support member (110) so that a user can safely use the exercise device (100). For example, guide grooves (indicated by dotted lines) may be provided on the inner side of the plurality of columns to allow the handle member (120) and the footrest member (130) to move. The upper end of the support member (110) may be connected via an auxiliary bar, and the lower end of the support member (110) may be connected via a base member (140).

[0042] The handle portion (120) may include a plurality of handles, and each handle may be provided on the upper side of the support portion (110) and positioned to face each other. The handle portion (120) may move up and down along a guide groove provided in the support portion (110) by control of the exercise device (100) or by operation of a user. The handle portion (120) may include a driving device to move at a specific speed or with a specific resistance. The handle portion (120) may include a sensing device for sensing the movement of the handle portion (120) or the force acting on the handle portion (120). For example, the user may perform exercise by holding each handle with both hands and moving both hands alternately, such as climbing a rock wall.

[0043] The footrest section (130) may include a plurality of footrests, and each footrest may be provided on the lower side of the support section (110) and positioned to face each other. The footrest section (130) may move up and down along a guide groove provided in the support section (110) by control of the exercise device (100) or by operation by a user. The footrest section (130) may include a driving device to move at a specific speed or with a specific resistance. The footrest section (130) may include a sensing device for sensing the movement of the handle section (120) or the force acting on the handle section (120). For example, the user may place both feet on each footrest and perform exercise by rolling both feet alternately, such as climbing a rock wall.

[0044] The handle portion (120) or footrest portion (130) may be connected to a sensor for sensing the force acting on each handle or footrest. The power supply unit (230), described later, can control the motor to move the handle or footrest in the direction where the user's body weight is applied by comparing the left and right force data measured by the sensor. Through this, the handle or footrest can move in an alternating, cross motion.

[0045] The support member (140) may be positioned at the bottom of the exercise device (100) to stably connect the support member (110). The interior of the support member (140) may additionally include components not previously mentioned, such as a computing device for controlling the overall operation of the exercise device (100), a power supply device for driving the exercise device (100), a sensing unit (220), and a power supply unit (230). The specific operation of the computing device will be described later through FIG. 2.

[0046] The input / output device (150) can be understood as a configuration unit including hardware and / or software for implementing a user interface. That is, the input / output device (150) can visualize and output data of any form generated or determined by the computing device and data of any form received from the outside. Additionally, the input / output device (150) can receive user input that generates commands to be transmitted to any system or any client, etc., connected to the computing device (210) via wired or wireless communication. For example, the input / output device (150) may include a display module capable of outputting visualized information or implementing a touch screen, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT LCD), an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a flexible display, a 3D display, etc. Additionally, the input / output device (150) may include an input module capable of recognizing actions such as user motion, voice, etc., such as a camera, microphone, keyboard, and mouse. Since the above-described modules are merely examples, the modules included in the input / output device (150) may be configured in various ways within a range understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of this disclosure, in addition to the above-described examples.

[0047] The input / output device (150) implements a user interface and can output graphics generated through a computing device or receive user input and transmit it to the computing device. User input may refer to actions that a user can perform through the input / output device (150), such as touching, clicking, double-clicking, or hovering over a specific graphic. By receiving user input and transmitting it to the computing device, the input / output device (150) can enable the movements of the exercise device (100) to be performed based on user control.

[0048] The input / output device (150) can process information generated by the exercise device (100) and output it visually or audibly. For example, it can display information about exercise programs provided by the exercise device (100). Alternatively, as the exercise progresses, it can analyze the user's exercise movements and provide them visually. Or, if the user performs a movement outside a preset range, it can provide a visual or auditory alarm.

[0049] The input / output device (150) may receive user input regarding the operation of the exercise device (100) from a user, including a user interface. For example, the exercise device (100) may manage user-specific exercise information by creating user-specific account information. Accordingly, the exercise device (100) may output an interface for logging into a user account and receive information required for login.

[0050] The user may select an exercise program through the input / output device (150) of the exercise device (100) or provide an exercise program recommended by the exercise device (100). To perform the exercise, the user may place both hands on the handle portion (120) and both feet on the footrest portion (130). While performing the exercise, the user may move each handle and each footrest up and down. Through the exercise device (100) of the present disclosure, the user may perform actions such as hiking or climbing.

[0051] The user may receive a preset exercise protocol for measuring cardiorespiratory endurance through the exercise device (100) according to the present disclosure. The exercise protocol is a preset value for moving the handle portion (120) and the footplate portion (130), and may include exercise intensity, number of steps, step height, number of sets, etc. The input / output device (150) may display information about the exercise protocol currently being performed by the user on a screen and may display the exercise time and exercise intensity.

[0052] And the exercise device (100) can collect exercise data while the user performs an exercise protocol. The exercise data may refer to information necessary to measure the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information. It may include the time for performing the exercise, the speed at which the exercise is performed, i.e., the speed of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130), the range of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) set in the exercise protocol, and resistance.

[0053] The exercise device (100) may further include a power supply unit (230) that provides power to the handle or footplate so that the handle or footplate is raised when the handle or footplate is moved to be raised by the user. This is to prevent injury caused by excessive exercise in the case of a user with weak muscle strength or who requires exercise assistance. For example, the user performs the action of lowering the handle or footplate, and when raising the handle or footplate again, the power supply unit (230) described below can raise the handle or footplate by assisting the user.

[0054] The user can perform the exercise by grasping the handle portion (120) of the exercise device (100), placing their feet on the footrest portion (130), and performing the action of climbing a rock wall. For example, the movement, speed, and magnitude of the force applied to each handle may be sensed, and the movement, speed, and magnitude of the force applied to each footrest may be sensed.

[0055] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a motion device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 2, the exercise device (200) may be a block diagram representing a part of the functional configuration of the exercise device (100) of FIG. 1. An exercise device (200) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a computing device (210), a sensing unit (220), and a power supply unit (230). The computing device (210) may be embedded in the support unit (140) of the exercise device (100) of FIG. 1. A part of the sensing unit (220) may be embedded in the support unit (140), and a part may be embedded in the handle unit (120) and the footrest unit (130). A part of the power supply unit (230) may be embedded in the support unit (140), and a part may be embedded in the handle unit (120) and the footrest unit (130).

[0057] A computing device (210) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be a hardware device or part of a hardware device that performs comprehensive processing and computation of data, or it may be a software-based computing environment connected to a communication network. In FIG. 2, the computing device (210) is depicted as being a component of the exercise device (200), but it is not limited thereto. That is, the computing device (210) exists outside the exercise device (200) and can perform data communication by being connected to the exercise device (200) via wired or wireless means. The computing device (210) may be a server or a client that performs intensive data processing functions and shares resources through communication with the aforementioned exercise device (200). Additionally, the computing device (210) may be a cloud system connected to the aforementioned exercise device (200) that enables a plurality of servers and clients to comprehensively process data. Since the description above is merely one example regarding the type of computing device (210), the type of computing device (210) may be configured in various ways within a range understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of the present disclosure.

[0058] The computing device (210) can provide an exercise load to the user by controlling the range of movement or resistance in the up and down direction of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) according to a preset exercise protocol. In this case, the exercise protocol may refer to an exercise program for testing purposes to measure the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information.

[0059] The exercise protocol may include several sections with different exercise intensities. For example, it may include a first section with constant exercise intensity and a second section with gradually increasing exercise intensity. Additionally, it may include a third section in which exercise is paused for a certain period of time. In this specification, exercise intensity may be determined according to at least one of the range of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130), the magnitude of resistance, or the speed of movement. In this case, the magnitude of resistance may refer to the magnitude of the exercise load. For example, high exercise intensity may refer to cases where the range of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) is large, the resistance applied to the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) is large, or the speed of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) is fast.

[0060] Meanwhile, the exercise device (200) may set and provide a range of motion and a resistance. However, in the exercise protocol for test purposes according to the present disclosure, the speed of movement may be controlled by the user's movement rather than being set and provided by the exercise device (200). That is, the speed of movement of the handle portion (120) and the foot portion (130) may be determined by the user.

[0061] The movement speed in each of the first and second sections can be set to a constant speed at a different speed. In this case, the setting of the movement speed means that the handle portion (120) and the footrest portion (130) do not move automatically at the set movement speed, but rather a standard exercise speed is set for the user to exercise for accurate testing. Accordingly, if the movement speed deviates from the speed range preset in the exercise protocol, the input / output device (150) can provide guidance to the user to ensure that the exercise is performed within the preset speed range. For example, if the user's exercise speed is slower or faster than the standard range, a guidance sound can be emitted to bring it into the standard range, or a guidance message can be displayed on the input / output device (150).

[0062] The computing device (210) can calculate the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the time at which the exercise protocol ends and the range of movement at the time at which the exercise protocol ends. The computing device (210) can calculate the cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the time the exercise protocol was performed. At this time, the cardiorespiratory endurance information may include a peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) value. The peak oxygen uptake may include an absolute peak oxygen uptake or a relative peak oxygen uptake.

[0063] The following describes how the computing device (210) calculates cardiorespiratory endurance information. When the exercise protocol is completed, the computing device (210) can calculate cardiorespiratory endurance information based on body information, the end time of the exercise protocol, and exercise data. Specifically, the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information can be used. Additionally, the end time of the exercise protocol and the range of movement of the handle portion (120) and foot portion (130) included in the exercise data can be used. The computing device (210) can calculate cardiorespiratory endurance information by linearly combining these. Specifically, age, gender, weight, and body fat percentage can be linearly combined to have a negative sign, while height, body mass index (BMI), the end time, and the range of movement can be linearly combined to have a positive sign. A constant may be further included in the linear combination process.

[0064] Meanwhile, the end point of the exercise protocol may be determined based on the user's exercise performance ability. That is, rather than all users performing the exercise protocol to the end, the exercise protocol may be performed in part and terminated depending on each user's exercise performance ability or cardiorespiratory endurance. The end point of the exercise protocol may be determined based on at least one of the following: the user's decision to give up the exercise, the movement speed remaining lower than the reference speed for a reference time, or the movement pattern of the handle part (120) and the footrest part (130) becoming irregular.

[0065] At this time, the end point is automatically determined, and since the user is induced to perform at their maximum exercise capacity, no supervisory personnel or additional equipment is required while performing the test for measuring cardiorespiratory endurance. In other words, if only the exercise according to the exercise protocol is performed on the exercise device (200), measurement can be easily performed because no separate procedures or equipment need to be prepared for measurement.

[0066] The computing device (210) can calculate the user's energy consumption based on the time when the exercise protocol ends and the maximum range of motion during the exercise protocol execution. Energy consumption refers to the calorie value consumed by the user while performing the exercise protocol.

[0067] The computing device (210) can calculate energy consumption by linearly combining the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol included in the exercise data, and the range of movement of the handle part (120) and the footrest part (130). Specifically, age, gender, height, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) can be linearly combined to have a negative sign, while weight, the end time, and the range of movement can be linearly combined to have a positive sign. A constant may be further included in the linear combination process.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 2, a computing device (210) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may include a processor (211), memory (212), a network unit (213), and an input / output unit (140). However, since FIG. 2 is merely an example, the computing device (210) may include other configurations for implementing a computing environment. Additionally, only some of the disclosed configurations may be included in the computing device (210).

[0069] A processor (211) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be understood as a constituent unit comprising hardware and / or software for performing computing operations. For example, the processor (211) may process instructions generated as a result of user interaction through a user interface. A processor (211) for performing such data processing and operations may include a central processing unit (CPU), a general purpose graphics processing unit (GPGPU), a tensor processing unit (TPU), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA). Since the above-described type of processor (211) is merely an example, the type of processor (211) may be configured in various ways within a range understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of the present disclosure.

[0070] A memory (212) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be understood as a configuration unit comprising hardware and / or software for storing and managing data processed by a computing device (210). That is, the memory (212) may store data of any form generated or determined by a processor (211) and data of any form received by a network unit (213). For example, the memory (212) may include at least one type of storage medium among a flash memory type, a hard disk type, a multimedia card micro type, a card type memory, RAM (random access memory), SRAM (static random access memory), ROM (read-only memory), EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory), PROM (programmable read-only memory), magnetic memory, a magnetic disk, or an optical disk. Additionally, the memory (212) may include a database system that controls and manages data in a predetermined system. Since the above-described type of memory (212) is merely an example, the type of memory (212) can be configured in various ways within a range understandable to those skilled in the art based on the contents of the present disclosure.

[0071] Memory (212) can manage data, combinations of data, and program code executable by the processor (211) by structuring and organizing them for the processor (211) to perform operations. For example, memory (212) can store program code that enables the processor (211) to process images, program code that enables the processor (211) to process commands based on user input through a user interface, and various data generated as the program code is executed.

[0072] The memory (212) may include the range of movement of the handle portion (120) and foot portion (130) according to the exercise protocol described below, the magnitude of resistance, the time interval during which the range of movement and resistance increase, the increase interval, etc., and may collect and store exercise data while the user performs the exercise protocol. It may also store the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information calculated based on the exercise data.

[0073] A network unit (213) according to one embodiment of the present disclosure may be understood as a configuration unit that transmits and receives data through any known form of wired or wireless communication system. For example, the network unit (213) may perform data transmission and reception using wired or wireless communication systems such as a local area network (LAN), wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA), long term evolution (LTE), wireless broadband internet (WiBro), 5th generation mobile communication (5G), ultra-wide-band wireless communication, ZigBee, radio frequency (RF) communication, wireless LAN, wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi), near field communication (NFC), or Bluetooth. Since the communication systems described above are merely examples, wired or wireless communication systems for data transmission and reception of the network unit (213) may be applied in various ways other than those described above.

[0074] The network unit (213) can receive data necessary for the processor (211) to perform calculations through wired or wireless communication with any system or any client, etc. Additionally, the network unit (213) can transmit data generated through the calculations of the processor (211) through wired or wireless communication with any system or any client, etc. The network unit (213) can perform wired or wireless communication with a server managing an exercise device or another exercise device outside the exercise device (200). Alternatively, if the computing device (210) is configured outside the exercise device (200), the network unit (213) can transmit and receive data to control the operation of the exercise device (200) and implement a user interface through communication with the exercise device (200).

[0075] The network unit (213) can receive user exercise data from an exercise device (200) that operates according to the user's body information and a preset exercise protocol.

[0076] The sensing unit (220) can measure position, velocity, and acceleration, which are information generated by the user while exercising, and the force provided to the exercise device (200) by the user operating the exercise device (200). Specifically, the sensing unit (220) can measure the movement position of the handle or footplate, the movement speed, the applied force, and the magnitude of the load provided to the user through the handle or footplate. The sensing unit (220) may include an encoder and a force sensor. Sensors may be placed correspondingly on both handles and both footplates.

[0077] The power supply unit (230) may include a motor for providing exercise load to the user and a controller for controlling the motor. The power generated by the power supply unit (230) may be supplied to the handle unit (120) or the footrest unit (130) via a ball screw, a timing belt, etc. For example, the handle unit (120) and the footrest unit (130) may each be connected to the same motor via a cable. Accordingly, when the motor rotates, the cables of the handle and footrest connected to a specific guide may extend, while the cables of the handle and footrest connected to the remaining guides may shorten. Meanwhile, as the cables extend, the direction of movement of the handle and footrest may differ. For example, when the cable connected to the handle extends, the handle may move upward, and when the cable connected to the footrest extends, the footrest may move downward. At this time, the handle and footrest connected to different guides may move in an alternating manner. Specifically, when a footrest connected to a specific guide moves downward, the footrests connected to the remaining guides can move upward. According to this connection method, a plurality of handles and a plurality of footrests connected to the power supply unit (230) can move organically.

[0078] The controller can control the motor to provide a determined size or type of exercise load. For example, the controller can provide various types of exercise loads, such as elastic resistance, viscous resistance, isometric and real-time weight change. The type or size of the exercise load can be determined based on at least one of information entered by the user, pre-set information, or a sensing value measured by the sensing unit (220). Through this, the user can feel exercise loads of various types or various exercise intensities.

[0079] FIG. 3 is an illustrative diagram showing an exercise protocol according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, and FIG. 4 is a table showing an exercise protocol according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the exercise protocol may include a first section (P1) in which the exercise intensity is constant and a second section (P2) in which the exercise intensity increases stepwise, and may further include a third section (P3) in which the exercise intensity is constant at 0.

[0081] The first section (P1) may correspond to a warm-up section. The exercise intensity in the first section (P1) may be set to the first intensity. The first intensity refers, for example, when the step length is 20 cm and the intensity is 100 (F*S*min -1 It may correspond to ). And in the first interval (P1), the user may be compelled to exercise at a speed of 80 (step / min). The first interval (P1) may be performed during the first period (t1 to t2), for example, the first period (t1 to t2) may be 120 seconds.

[0082] The second section (P2) may include multiple stages with different exercise intensities. That is, when the first section (P1) ends, the user enters a stage where the exercise intensity increases stepwise. The exercise intensity increase may be the same or different for each stage. For example, a movement range of 2cm and a resistance magnitude of 100 (F*S*min -1 It can be set to increase by ). The duration of one stage (S1) can be, for example, 30 seconds. Meanwhile, in the second section (P2), the exercise speed can be set to 60 (step / min).

[0083] Depending on the user's exercise ability, the exercise can be continued up to a maximum of 17 stages. The user may end the exercise while performing the exercise in the second stage (P2). Conditions for ending the exercise include the user deciding to stop the exercise, or the exercise protocol may end if the user's exercise speed remains lower than the reference speed set for each stage, or if the exercise protocol may end if the movement pattern of the handle part (120) and the foot part (130) becomes irregular during the user's exercise.

[0084] In this way, the size of the movement range, the size of the resistance, and the duration of the increase for each stage may be determined through experiments described later. Additionally, based on the characteristics of the exercise device (100) of the present disclosure, the exercise speed of the second section (P2) may be set slower than the exercise speed of the first section (P1).

[0085] To ensure accurate measurement of cardiorespiratory endurance, the exercise device can encourage the user to exert maximum exercise capacity through an input / output device (150). For example, if the sensing unit (220) detects that the user’s exercise speed is slower than the reference speed of 60 step / min at any stage of the second section (P2), the input / output device (150) may output a guidance sound or message saying "You need to be faster," or if it is faster than the reference speed, to exercise at an appropriate speed.

[0086] The third section (P3) refers to a resting period after the exercise is finished. The end point of the exercise protocol refers to the end point of the second section (P2), but depending on the embodiment, it may be determined as the end point of the third section (P3).

[0087] FIGS. 5 to 9 are exemplary diagrams showing comparison results of a method for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0088] Referring to FIGS. 5 to 9, this is an example diagram showing experimental results to verify whether the method for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information according to the present disclosure is reliable compared to a conventional calculation method.

[0089] The experiment involved 101 physically active men and women who alternately performed the cycle ergometer test and the method according to the present disclosure on different days according to a randomized crossover design. After performing one protocol at the initial visit, the blood lactate concentration was 2 mmol·L - The process proceeded by implementing the remaining protocol once it recovered to less than ¹.

[0090] During each study, respiratory gases (VO₂, VCO₂) were continuously measured using a portable spirometry device. The measured indicators were used to calculate peak oxygen uptake (VO₂ peak), lipid and carbohydrate oxidation rates, and total energy expenditure, while heart rate and capillary lactate were also collected simultaneously. Additionally, the energy contributions of the oxidative, glycolytic, and phosphate systems were estimated using the PCr-La-O₂ model. Statistical analysis evaluated the consistency and differences in values ​​between protocols using Pearson correlation coefficients, Bland-Altman tests, and paired t-tests.

[0091] Figures 5 and 6 are scatter plots showing the inter-class correlations for two different methods for absolute peak oxygen uptake and body mass-corrected relative peak oxygen uptake, respectively. The absolute peak oxygen uptake measured by the method according to the present disclosure showed a very strong positive correlation with the absolute peak oxygen uptake measured by the cycle ergometer test, with r = 0.91 and R² = 0.84, and the relative peak oxygen uptake also showed a high degree of agreement with r = 0.87 and R² = 0.76.

[0092] Figures 7 and 8 show the results of the Bland-Altman analysis. For the absolute peak oxygen uptake, the bias is 0.069 ± 0.366 L·min-1 and the 95% agreement limit is -0.64 to +0.78 L·min -1 It was found that the relative peak oxygen uptake had a bias of 0.77 ± 5.07 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 , 95% agreement limit -9.17 ~ +10.73 mL·kg -1 ·min -1 As such, both variables converged to an error range of within ±30%. This result indicates that the cardiorespiratory endurance information measurement method proposed in this disclosure satisfies the allowable error commonly accepted in clinical and sports settings, and secures measurement reliability that is interchangeable with existing cycle ergometer-based reference tests.

[0093] Figure 9 is a heat map showing the relationship between the duration of the exercise protocol (total minutes (min) taken until completion) and various physiological and metabolic indicators. As the duration increases, a positive correlation can be observed in which the maximum and average heart rates (HR_peak, HR_mean), average fat and carbohydrate oxidation rates (FAT_Ox, CHO_Ox), and the contributions of oxidation, phosphate, and the corresponding energy systems (W_Oxi, W_PCr, W_Gly) increase together. This provides grounds for the exercise protocol of the present disclosure to rapidly increase oxygen consumption from the beginning by simultaneously stimulating large muscles of the upper and lower extremities, and to maintain an oxidative metabolism-dominant energy supply pattern thereafter.

[0094] Therefore, the method according to the present disclosure can be utilized as an alternative testing method to rapidly evaluate cardiorespiratory and metabolic fitness without the need for a large ergometer or a complex load control system. Additionally, based on the familiarity of climbing movements, such as the exercise device (100) of the present disclosure, it can have a wide range of applicability even in clinical and field environments where equipment accessibility is low.

[0095] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a method of operation of a computing device for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 10, the following method for calculating cardiorespiratory endurance information may be performed by a computing device (210) located within the exercise device (100) or by an external computing device (210) connected to the exercise device (100) via a network.

[0097] The computing device (210) can collect the user's body information (S110). The body information may be entered by the user and may include at least one of age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, or body mass index (BMI).

[0098] A computing device (210) can collect user exercise data from an exercise device (100) that operates according to a preset exercise protocol (S120). At this time, the exercise device (100) may include a handle part (120) and a footrest part (130) formed to reciprocate with a set resistance within a set movement range in the up-and-down direction as described above in FIG. 1. The exercise protocol may be a set of movement ranges and resistances for the handle part (120) and the footrest part (130).

[0099] The exercise protocol may include a first section that provides a constant exercise load and a second section that gradually increases the exercise load at preset time intervals. The exercise load may be determined by the range of motion and resistance.

[0100] When the exercise protocol ends, the computing device (210) can calculate the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on body information, the end time of the exercise protocol, and exercise data (S130). For example, the computing device (210) can linearly combine the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, and the end time of the exercise protocol, the range of movement of the handle part (120), and the footrest part (130) included in the exercise data. Specifically, age, gender, weight, and body fat percentage can be linearly combined to have a negative sign, and height, body mass index (BMI), the end time, and the range of movement can be linearly combined to have a positive sign.

[0101] Based on the above description in FIG. 4, the stage at which the user performed the exercise can be determined at the time the exercise protocol ends. For example, the user may end the exercise at stage 12. In this case, the time at which the exercise ends is the accumulated exercise time, and the range of movement of the handle part (120) and the foot part (130) may be the range of movement corresponding to stage 12.

[0102] Additionally, the computing device (210) can calculate the user's energy consumption based on exercise data when the exercise protocol is terminated. For example, the computing device (210) can linearly combine the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, and the end time of the exercise protocol, the range of movement of the handle part (120), and the footrest part (130) included in the exercise data. Specifically, the age, gender, height, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) can be linearly combined to have a negative sign, and the weight, end time, and range of movement can be linearly combined to have a positive sign.

[0103] The various embodiments of the present disclosure described above may be combined with additional embodiments and modified to the extent understandable to those skilled in the art in light of the detailed description above. The embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrative in all respects and should be understood as not restrictive. For example, each component described as a single unit may be implemented in a distributed manner, and components described as distributed may likewise be implemented in a combined form. Accordingly, all modifications or variations derived from the meaning, scope, and equivalents of the claims of the present disclosure should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for calculating a user's cardiorespiratory endurance information performed by a computing device, Step of collecting user's body information; A step of collecting exercise data of the user from an exercise device that operates according to a preset exercise protocol; and When the above exercise protocol is terminated, a step of calculating the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the body information, the time of termination of the above exercise protocol, and the above exercise data; Includes, The above-described exercise device includes a handle portion and a foot portion formed to reciprocate with a set resistance within a set movement range in the up-and-down direction; and The above exercise protocol is a method for setting the range of motion and resistance of the handle portion and the footrest portion.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above calculation step is, A step of linearly combining the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol included in the exercise data, and the range of movement of the handle and footrest parts; A method including 3. In Paragraph 2, The above linear combining step is, The above age, above gender, above weight, and above body fat percentage have a negative sign. A step of linearly combining the height, body mass index (BMI), the end point, and the movement range so that they have a positive sign; A method including 4. In Paragraph 1, The above exercise protocol is, A first section providing a constant exercise load; and A second section that gradually increases the exercise load at preset time intervals; Includes, The above exercise load is determined by the above range of motion and the above resistance, in a method.

5. In Paragraph 1, When the above exercise protocol is terminated, a step of calculating the user's energy consumption based on the above exercise data; A method that further includes.

6. In Paragraph 5, The above calculation step is, A step of linearly combining the user's age, gender, height, weight, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) included in the body information, the end time of the exercise protocol included in the exercise data, and the range of movement of the handle and footrest parts; A method including 7. In Paragraph 6, The above linear combining step is, The above age, above gender, height, body fat percentage, and body mass index (BMI) have a negative sign, and A step of linearly combining the weight, the end point, and the movement range so that they have a positive sign; A method including 8. In Paragraph 1, A method in which the above cardiorespiratory endurance information includes absolute VO2 peak or relative VO2 peak.

9. A computer program stored on a computer-readable storage medium, wherein, when executed on one or more processors, the computer program performs operations for calculating the cardiorespiratory endurance information of a user, and said operations are, Action of collecting user's body information; The operation of collecting exercise data of the user from an exercise device that operates according to a preset exercise protocol; and When the above exercise protocol is terminated, an operation to calculate the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information based on the body information, the time of termination of the above exercise protocol, and the above exercise data; Includes, The above-described exercise device includes a handle portion and a foot portion formed to reciprocate within a movement range with a set resistance within a movement range set in the up-and-down direction; and The above exercise protocol is a computer program that sets the range of motion and resistance of the handle portion and the footrest portion.

10. A computing device for calculating user's cardiorespiratory endurance information, A processor comprising at least one core; Memory containing program code executable in the above processor; and A network unit that receives exercise data of the user from an exercise device that operates according to the user's body information and a preset exercise protocol; Includes, The above processor is, When the above exercise protocol is terminated, the user's cardiorespiratory endurance information is calculated based on the above body information, the time of termination of the above exercise protocol, and the above exercise data, and The above-described exercise device includes a handle portion and a foot portion formed to reciprocate within a movement range with a set resistance within a movement range set in the up-and-down direction, and The above exercise protocol is a computing device that sets the range of motion and resistance of the handle portion and the footplate portion.

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