Trekking pole handle with interactive display for mobility support

Abstract

A trekking pole handle comprises a grip portion and an interactive display positioned at a top of the handle and oriented to face a user during use. The interactive display includes a screen configured to present information to the user while the user holds the handle. The display may be removably attached to the handle or integrated into the handle and may be touch enabled. The display is configured to present data and movement cues to the user, including visual cues and optionally auditory or haptic cues. In some embodiments, the movement cues are rhythmic cues having a frequency that may be adjusted by the user or based on sensor data. The handle may further include ergonomic features such as a wrist support, a pinky recess, a thumb support, or one or more cutouts. The handle may be mounted on a trekking pole to provide an interactive walking aid.

Description

TREKKING POLE HANDLE WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY FOR MOBILITY SUPPORTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. provisional application 63 / 753,532, titled “TREKKING POLE HANDLE WITH INTERACTIVE DISPLAY FOR MOBILITY SUPPORT”, filed February 4, 2025, the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] This disclosure relates to a device in the general field of handles used with portable pole devices to assist with fitness walking and mobility rehabilitation.BACKGROUND

[0003] Trekking poles have long been recognized as essential tools for hikers, trekkers, and outdoor enthusiasts, providing stability, support, and balance when navigating challenging or uneven terrains. These poles are commonly used to reduce strain on the body, especially during long-distance treks or climbs, and can help prevent falls or injury by offering additional stability. Traditionally, trekking poles have focused on physical support, offering adjustable lengths, ergonomic grips, and features like shock absorption to improve comfort and reduce strain on the joints.

[0004] However, traditional trekking poles are often designed with the average, able-bodied user in mind and may not adequately address the needs of individuals who experience mobility challenges, including those with limited strength, flexibility, or balance.SUMMARY

[0005] The present disclosure describes a smart trekking pole equipped with an integrated display and real-time feedback capabilities designed to enhance the user experience, particularly for individuals with mobility challenges. This innovative trekking pole combines the traditional stability and support of a trekking pole with advanced digital functionalities, enabling users to receive vital performance metrics, movement cues, and exercise guidance directly on the pole.

[0006] The trekking pole includes a display that provides real-time data such as distance traveled, altitude, speed, heart rate, and other relevant health metrics. In addition to these basic tracking features, the pole is capable of delivering dynamic movement cues to assist the user with optimal posture, stride length, pacing, and balance. These cues are particularly beneficial for users with mobility challenges, such as seniors or individuals with disabilities, by offering personalized recommendations to improve walking technique, prevent fatigue, and reduce the risk of injury.

[0007] To enhance the usability and versatility of the device, the display may be integrated into the pole handle or designed as a modular component that can be easily snapped in or removed. This modular approach offers significant advantages, particularly with respect to maintenance and charging. By allowing the display to be easily detached, users can remove it for convenient charging, ensuring that the pole remains functional even when the display is not in use. The modular design also enables the display to be replaced or upgraded without needing to replace the entire trekking pole, offering greater flexibility and ease of use.

[0008] The trekking pole with integrated display and modular functionality provides feedback tailored to the user’s specific needs, such as reminders to adjust walking form, take breaks, or change pace, based on the data collected from motion sensors or biometric readings. This functionality allows users to receive guidance without needing to stop their activity or check external devices like smartphones or fitness trackers.

[0009] Integrating an easy-to-read display and interactive content offers a seamless and efficient solution for individuals seeking to improve their walking experience. The modular design further enhances convenience, as the display can be detached forcharging and reattached when needed. The trekking pole with integrated feedback and removable display enhances safety, performance, and overall user satisfaction, ensuring that users with mobility challenges can enjoy walking activities with greater confidence and ease. The addition of rhythmic cuing software, delivered by audio, visual or tactile cues may improve walking for people with mobility challenges.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a trekking pole handle with a removable interactive display in accordance with one embodiment

[0011] FIG.2 is a side view of a trekking pole handle with an integrated interactive display in accordance with one embodiment

[0012] FIG.3 is an exploded side view of a magnetically coupled removable interactive display embodiment of the trekking pole handle with interactive display

[0013] FIG.4 is a top isometric view of a magnetically coupled accessory plate.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a bottom isometric view of a magnetically coupled accessory plate.

[0015] FIG.6 is a bottom isometric view of an interactive display that includes magnets underneath.

[0016] FIG.7 is a side view of a mechanically coupled removable interactive display embodiment of the trekking pole handle with interactive display.

[0017] FIG.8 is a front view of a mechanically coupled accessory plate in contact with a mechanically coupled handle.

[0018] FIG.9 is a side view of a mechanically coupled accessory plate in contact with a mechanically coupled handle.

[0019] FIG. 10 is a side view of handle that accepts an interactive display by pressing the interactive display into the recess.

[0020] FIG. 11 is an isometric side view of a trekking pole handle with an interactive display installed on a trekking pole.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a side view of wrist straps attached to a trekking pole handle in accordance with some embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] As outdoor activities become more inclusive, there is a growing demand for equipment that can accommodate a broader range of users, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, or those recovering from injuries. For these users, trekking poles can provide significant benefits, but additional features — such as real-time health data, performance metrics, and movement cues — could make a substantial difference in safety, comfort, and overall enjoyment.

[0023] In addition to providing physical support, modem users, particularly those with mobility challenges, would benefit from trekking poles that offer interactive feedback, such as cues for proper movement, posture correction, and exercise recommendations to help optimize performance and reduce the risk of injury. Currently, wearable devices and fitness trackers require users to stop and check their devices, often interrupting the flow of the activity. Moreover, these devices do not integrate directly into the trekking experience, which can be inconvenient and disruptive for individuals with limited mobility or those who need extra support while walking.

[0024] A trekking pole with an integrated display, as disclosed herein, could address these limitations by providing real-time information and dynamic feedback directly on the pole, without the need for users to carry or operate separate devices. In addition to displaying basic data, such as distance traveled, altitude, or heart rate, the pole could provide specific cues and suggestions to improve walking technique and performance. For example, the display could offer reminders to adjust posture, change walking pace, or take a rest, based on user fatigue or motion patterns. For users with mobility challenges, the pole could even provide personalized recommendations for movement, such as adjusting stride length or balance cues to prevent falls and reduce strain on vulnerable joints.

[0025] A trekking pole with an integrated display and push content functionality would be particularly valuable for those with mobility challenges, providing real-time guidance and feedback to ensure they are moving safely and effectively. By combining the stabilityand support of a traditional trekking pole with the added benefits of digital tracking and exercise cues, this invention would enhance the outdoor experience for a broader range of users, helping them enjoy the physical and psychological benefits of outdoor activity with increased safety and confidence.

[0026] The present disclosure describes embodiments of a handle that includes an integrated display. Although the discussion focuses on a trekking pole, the handle described herein may function as a modular interactive platform adaptable to a variety of pole-based or handheld mobility and support devices, including walking poles, canes, ski poles, rehabilitation devices, and training implements.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 1, the handle 500 includes a grip portion 100 (hereinafter grip 100), an outer surface 12 directed away from the user, an inner surface 14 directed towards the user, and a bottom surface 16. As discussed below in greater detail, a display assembly 200 may be attached to the handle 500. The handle 500 may further include one or more sensors, one or more haptic components, one or more audio output components, such as a speaker or an audio output transducer, and / or one or more communication components configured to communicate with an external device such as the user’ s mobile phone or a wearable (e.g., watch, ring).

[0028] As shown in FIG. 1, the display assembly 200 may be positioned at the top of the handle 500. The display assembly 200 may be removable or integral / non-removable. As discussed below in greater detail, a removable display assembly 200 may provide the handle 500 with additional functionality. In some embodiments, the display assembly 200 includes one or more user input components, such as a power button, to turn the device on and off, as shown in FIG.4.

[0029] The display assembly 200 includes a display 80 with a face 81. The display 80 may be described as a visual output device. In at least one embodiment, the display 80 can be navigated fully by touch. In other embodiments, the display 80 is partially touch enabled or non-touch, and navigation may be performed using physical controls, gesture input, or external devices. Although the display 80 illustrated in FIG. 1 has a rectangular shape, the display may have any shape. The face 81 of the display 80 may be orientedgenerally upwards. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the display 80 is held by an accessory holder 250 configured to be removably attached to the handle 500 (see e.g., FIG. 3). The display 80 may be removably attached to the accessory holder 250. The display 80 may be interactive. For example, the display 80 may include one or more icons that may be utilized to access information to be displayed for a user.

[0030] The display 80 may include a screen positioned on the face 81. In some embodiments, the screen is a touchscreen. The display may present data to the user via the screen or other output interface (visual or audio). The data may be the time of day. steps taken, distance traveled, walking speed, acceleration, force, pressure, position, route guidance, derived metrics, inferred metrics, or any other information useful to the user, whether generated locally or received from an external device. The data may be obtained from one or more sensors. For example, the sensor may be an accelerometer, an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), a GPS sensor, a pressure sensor, a force sensor, or a distance sensor such as lidar, sonar or radar. The data obtained from the one or more sensors may be referred to herein as sensor data. The sensor data may also include raw data, processed data, or derived information.

[0031] In some embodiments, the sensor may form a part of the handle 500. For example, the sensor may be located inside the display, or positioned in or on the handle 500. In other embodiments, the sensor may be carried by another device. For example, the sensor may be attached to the user, e.g., a wearable, such as a watch, ring, attached to an article of clothing worn by the user, or a sensor on a mobile phone. This type of sensor may be described as an external sensor. In at least one embodiment, the handle 500 is configured to communicate with the external sensor to obtain data from the sensor.

[0032] The handle 500 may be further configured to provide movement cues to the user for pacing, coordination, training, navigation, engagement, or other movement-related purposes, including but not limited to walking assistance. Movement cues may be visual, haptic, and / or auditory. Visual cues may be presented by the display 80, e.g., via the screen. Visual cues that may be utilized include colors, images, shapes, and / or animations. Haptic cues may include vibrations. For example, the grip 100 of the handle500 may include a haptic component such as an actuator configured to vibrate. Auditory cues may include music. For example, a user’s favorite song may be utilized as an auditory cue.

[0033] In some embodiments, the movement cues are presented at a rhythmic frequency or at variable time intervals determined based on sensor data, user preferences, or predefined programs. An example of a visual cue that changes at a rhythmic frequency is a screen that moves to a rhythmic beat. The screen of the display would change color, display a new shape or a new image at a constant timed beat. The frequency of the movement cues may be adjustable by the user via the touchscreen, a physical control on the display, or a wirelessly connected external device, such as a mobile phone. In some embodiments, the user could input preferences for the frequency of the movement cues. In some embodiments, the user could alter the frequency of movement cues by rotating a knob (e.g., knob 82 illustrated in FIG.4) on the side of the display 80 or via use of a touchscreen. In another embodiment, the frequency of cues could be set from a mobile device connected wirelessly to the display 80. In further embodiments, information from the one or more sensors may be utilized to set, modify, or adapt the rhythmic frequency in real time, including through feedback loops, predictive models, or user-specific profiles. For example, the frequency of movement cues may be set by the frequency of measured accelerations. Similarly, if external sensors are used, the biometric data obtained by those sensors could help to set the frequency of movement cues. In this way, the user would not have to guess their preferred frequency.

[0034] Furthermore, the system could be programmed to adjust the frequency of movement cues based on user performance. In another embodiment, the movement cues may be gamified or otherwise presented as interactive challenges, progress indicators, or engagement mechanisms, wherein user movement is compared to one or more reference patterns. For example, the user would be challenged to walk in a rhythmic fashion. Data from one or more sensors could be utilized to modify the timing of the movement cues and compare the user’s movement to the set frequency of the movement cues. At the endof a game or challenge, a score may be presented on the display. For example, the score may represent the accuracy of the user hitting rhythmic targets.

[0035] In some embodiments, the sensor may form a part of the handle 500. For example, the sensor may be located inside the display, or positioned in or on the handle 500. In other embodiments, the handle 500 receives sensor data from one or more external sources, including wearable devices, mobile devices, or remote computing systems. A wearable device may be worn by the user, such as a watch or ring, or attached to an article of clothing worn by the user. This type of sensor may be described as an external sensor.

[0036] The display assembly may not include an accessory holder. In some embodiments, the display 80' is permanently affixed to the handle 500. For example, as illustrated in FIG.2, the handle 500’ includes a non-removable or integrated display 80'. Like display 80, the non-removable display 80' may be positioned at the top of the handle 500' with the face 81 oriented generally upwards. As shown in FIG. 2, the face 81 may be oriented at a viewing angle 60. The viewing angle 60 may provide a more direct view of the interactive display 80 to the user while holding the handle 500'. As illustrated, the viewing angle is an angle between the face 81 of the interactive display 80 and reference plane 61. Reference plane 61 may be described as a horizontal plane when the grip portion, such as grip 100, is oriented in a generally vertical orientation. The viewing angle 60 may be an angle between 1 degree and 90 degrees relative to a reference plane 61. For example, the viewing angle 60 can be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees. 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees. 55 degrees, 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, or any angle in between with respect to the reference plane 61. The embodiment shown in FIG.2 shows the viewing angle 60 as a fixed angle, however in other embodiments, the viewing angle 60 is adjustable.

[0037] In addition to a display 80, 80’. the handle 500, 500' may include additional features. For example, as shown in FIG.2, the handle 500, 500' may include a wrist support 50, a pinky recess 20, a thumb support 30, and / or at least one cutout. The wristsupport 50 may be positioned towards the bottom of the handle 500, 500'. In some embodiments, the wrist support 50 forms the bottom of the handle 500, 500'. The wrist support 50 illustrated in FIG.2 may be described as a shelf configured to offload weight from the grip into the ulnar side of the hand, providing extra comfort. As shown in FIG.2, the wrist support 50 may be oriented generally perpendicular to the grip support.Further, as illustrated, the wrist support 50 may be parallel to reference plane 61.

[0038] The recess 20 may be an indentation in the surface of the grip portion of the handle 500. The recess 20 may be positioned along an outer facing surface of the grip portion. The recess 20 may be positioned adjacent to the wrist support 50. The recess 20 may provide the user with greater comfort, primarily due to the differences in the length of human fingers. The pinky is the shortest finger. Without the recess 20. the pinky finger cannot extend around the handle as much as the other longer fingers. Thus, recess 20 may be described as a pinky recess.

[0039] The thumb support 30 may improve the ergonomics of the handle 500, 500' by providing support to the thumb-side of the hand. The thumb support 30 may be positioned opposite the recess 20.

[0040] The grip portion of the handle and / or the display assembly may include one or more cutouts. A cutout may reduce the weight of the handle, improve the ability to manufacture by reducing the maximum thickness of the handle, and / or form an attachment point. As shown in FIG.2, the handle 500, 500' may include a first cutout 40 and / or a second cutout 70. The first cutout 40 may be positioned adjacent to the inner surface 14. The first cutout 40 may be referred to as a rear cutout because it is positioned towards the rear of the pole when the handle is attached. The first cutout 40 may form the thumb support 30. A second cutout 70 may be positioned towards the top of the grip 100 and below the display 80. Both cutouts can be cut through the entire handle to form a fully enclosed open space so that they may be used to attach an accessory.

[0041] FIG.3 shows the removable display assembly 200 shown in FIG. 1, separated from the handle 500. The display assembly may be removably coupled to the handle using any repeatable attachment mechanism, including magnetic, mechanical, frictional,elastic, adhesive-based, or hybrid coupling mechanisms. In some embodiments, the display assembly 200 is magnetically coupled to the handle 500. For example, as discussed below in greater detail, the accessory holder 250 may be magnetically coupled to the handle 500. As shown in FIG.3, the handle 500 may include an interface plate 10. The accessory holder 250 and / or the interface plate 10 may be magnetic and / or include one or more magnets. In some embodiments, the material used for the interface plate 10 creates an attractive force for one or more magnets of the accessory holder 250. Example materials for the interface plate 10 thus include one or more of the following group of materials: steel, iron, stainless steel, or any material attracted to magnets.

[0042] The face / top surface of the interface plate 10 may be oriented at an angle 62 between a reference plane 63 and the top face / surface of the interface plate 10. Reference plane 63 may be described as a horizontal plane when the grip portion, such as grip 100, is oriented in a generally vertical orientation. The angle 62 may be an angle between 1 degree and 90 degrees relative to a reference plane 63. For example, the angle 62 can be 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, 20 degrees, 25 degrees, 30 degrees, 35 degrees, 40 degrees, 45 degrees, 50 degrees, 55 degrees. 60 degrees, 65 degrees, 70 degrees, 75 degrees, 80 degrees, 85 degrees, 90 degrees, or any angle in between with respect to the reference plane 63. As shown in FIG.3, the viewing angle 60 of the display 80 may be established by the angle 62 of the surface of the interface plate 10. In these embodiments, angle 62 and angle 60 may be equal. In the exemplary configuration shown in FIG.3, the accessory holder 250 is adapted to mate with the interface plate 10 so that the top face 81 of the display 80 is parallel to the interface plane angle 62. However, the geometry of the accessory holder 250 can be adapted to alter the viewing angle 60 created by the handle. Exemplary angles for the viewing angle 60 are discussed above with reference to FIG. 2.

[0043] FIGS. 4 and 5 respectively illustrate top and bottom views of a detachable display assembly 200 with an accessory holder 250. The accessory holder 250 may described as an interfacing device. As shown in FIG. 4, the display 80 is positioned on a top / upper surface of the accessory holder 250. In some embodiments, the display 80 includes a recess configured to receive the display. As discussed above, the display 80may include a knob 82 and / or a power button 83. In some embodiments, the knob 82 is rotatable and rotation of the knob may be used to alter the frequency of cues provided by the display assembly. Although FIG. 4 shows the knob 82 and power button 83 positioned on the same side of the display 80, the knob 82 and power button 83 may be positioned in other locations. Additionally, in some embodiments, the power button 83 is integrated into the knob 82.

[0044] In at least one embodiment, a removable display assembly 200 may include one or more magnets positioned on the bottom. For example, as shown in FIG. 5, one or more magnets 230a, 230b, 230c and 230d (collectively magnets 230) may be positioned on the bottom of the accessory holder 250. In this example, the accessory holder 250 is square shaped with a magnet positioned in each corner.

[0045] A display assembly 200 may also include one or more features to locate / orient the display assembly 200 to the handle 500. The one or more features may function as poka-yoke mechanism to facilitate coupling of the display assembly 200 to the handle 500. For example, the display assembly can include any combination of ledges, pins and holes, tapered pins and holes, rails, or kinematic couplers among others. FIG. 5 shows the magnetically coupled accessory holder 250 includes one or more ledges 220a, 220b, 220c and 220d which act to locate the accessory holder 250 to the handle 500. For example, the ledges 220 may define a recess in the accessory holder 250 configured to mate with one or more projections extending from the interface plate 10.

[0046] In some embodiments, the accessory holder 250 is a separate component from the display 80. In other words, the accessory holder 250 may receive a display. For example, a user could couple their smart watch to the accessory holder 250. However, as shown in FIG. 6, in other embodiments, the housing of the display 80 can serve the same function described herein for the accessory holder 250. In these embodiments, the display assembly lacks an accessory holder. A benefit of utilizing a separate accessory holder is that modification of the display is not required to couple the display to the handle. For example, accessory holders configured to receive different types of displays may be manufactured with a universal attachment mechanism so that the same handle may beutilized with accessory holders configured for different displays. Thus a user could purchase a new accessory holder for a new smart watch rather than a new handle. In other embodiments, the handle includes at least one cutout configured to secure a watch band. For example, a cutout, positioned adjacent to the top of the handle and extending through the handle, may be configured to hold a magnetic watch band.

[0047] In at least one embodiment, a removable display assembly may be mechanically coupled to the handle. A mechanical coupling relies on mechanical interlocking to couple and uncouple the display assembly from the handle. FIG. 7 shows a mechanically coupled removable display assembly 200" separated from of the handle 500". In some embodiments, the mechanical coupling includes at least one interface rail 13 on the top surface of the handle 500" and at least one display assembly rail 14 on a bottom surface of the display assembly 200". The interface rail 13 and / or the display assembly rail 14 may be rigidly connected. The at least one rail 13 may be positioned on the interface plate 10. The interface rail 13 and interface plate 10 may form a part of a handle receptacle configured to receive and retain the display assembly 200". As shown in FIG.7, the rail 14 is positioned on the bottom of the accessory holder 250". However, in other embodiments, the rail 14 may be positioned on the bottom of the housing of the display 80.

[0048] FIGs. 8 and 9 illustrate exemplary embodiments of mechanical couplings. The display assembly may be configured to slide relative to the handle. For example, as shown in FIG.8, the display assembly rail 14 is adapted to slide relative to the interface rails 13a. 13b extending from the interface plate 10. The adapter plate rail 14 is adapted to slide in relation to the interface rails 13a and 13b in a way that guides linear motion but to also serve as a locating feature which locates the display assembly 200"' to the handle.

[0049] The mechanical coupling assembly may include at least one stop. In some embodiments, the stop is a hook and latch mechanism. For example, as illustrated in FIG.9, the accessory holder 250"’ includes a hook feature 15 configured to interact with a latch 16 connected to the interface plate 10. As shown, the latch 16 may be pivotally connected to a post 17 attached to the interface plate. The mechanical coupling assemblyfurther includes a stopping feature 19, connected to the interface plate, and configured to stop motion of the accessory holder 250'"'. The latch 16 forms a removable connection between the accessory holder 250"" and the handle when the accessory holder 250"" is slid to the terminal position where the adapter plate rail 14 contacts the stopping feature 19. This exemplary configuration is meant to demonstrate one embodiment of a mechanical coupling between the accessory holder and the handle and it should be understood that any version of a latch and locating system can be used in accordance with this disclosure.

[0050] Another type of mechanical coupling that may be utilized to couple the display assembly to the handle is by a press fit or interference fit between the display assembly and the handle. In at least one embodiment, the interface plate 10 may include a recess sized to receive the housing of the display 80. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, the display 80 may be pressed into a recess 108. Friction between the display 80 and the handle recess 108 may hold the display 80 in place.

[0051] In an alternative embodiment, the handle recess 108 can be adapted to use a mechanical locking feature to hold the display 80 inside the handle recess 108. More specifically, a mechanical locking feature employs recessed areas in one part with mechanical interlocks in the other. These interlocking features can be released manually or can be overpowered by an external force using elastic features.

[0052] A handle as described above may be coupled to a pole. For example, FIG. 11 shows a handle 500 mounted atop a trekking pole 400 to form a fully assembled trekking pole 600. As shown, the trekking pole may include a height adjustment feature 410. which can be a set of holes and a locking pin or another locking device, and a foot 450 for interacting with the ground. The foot 450 can be made of any material or geometry. For example, the foot 450 may be configured for use any type of surface, e.g., even, uneven, pavement, rock, among others.

[0053] As discussed above, one or more accessories may be attached to the handle and / or the display assembly. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, at least one strap may be coupled to the handle. In one embodiment, a strap 421 may be coupled to the first cutout40. In another embodiment, a strap 422 is coupled through the second cutout 70. In other embodiments, the display assembly 200 includes a strap attachment feature for coupling a strap. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, a strap 423 is coupled to a strap attachment feature 252 extending from the side of the accessory holder 250b. The accessory holder 250b may be magnetically or mechanically coupled, as discussed above.

[0054] While the invention has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment(s), it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment(s) disclosed, but that the invention will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.Discussion of Possible Embodiments

[0055] The present disclosure describes a pole handle that includes a grip portion and a display positioned at a top of the handle. The display may include a screen to be viewed by a user.

[0056] The present disclosure further describes a pole handle that includes a grip portion and an accessory holder positioned at a top of the handle. The accessory holder may be configured to receive and retain a wearable electronic device of a user such that a display of the wearable electronic device is viewable by the user while holding the handle.

[0057] The pole handle may be coupled to a pole.

[0058] The pole may include one or more of a trekking pole, a walking pole, a cane, a ski pole, or a rehabilitation pole.

[0059] The display may be oriented generally upwards at a viewing angle relative to the grip portion.

[0060] The viewing angle may be fixed or adjustable.

[0061] The pole handle may include at least one ergonomic feature.

[0062] The ergonomic feature may include a pinky recess, a wrist support, or both.

[0063] The pinky recess may be positioned adjacent to the wrist support.

[0064] The pole handle may further include a strap attachment feature.

[0065] The strap attachment feature may include a cutout, a slot, a loop, or a projection formed in the handle.

[0066] The strap attachment feature may be coupled to the accessory holder.

[0067] The display may be removably coupled to the handle.

[0068] The pole handle may further include an accessory holder, wherein the display is combined with the accessory holder.

[0069] The display may be removably coupled to the handle by one or more of a magnetic coupling, a mechanical coupling, or a press-fit coupling.

[0070] The display may be non-removable and integrated into the handle.

[0071] The screen may be a touchscreen.

[0072] The display may include a visual output device configured to present information to a user.

[0073] The display may be configured to present movement-related information to the user during use of the pole.

[0074] The display may be configured to provide movement cues to the user.

[0075] The movement cues may include rhythmic cues.

[0076] The movement cues may include one or more of visual cues, auditory cues, or haptic cues.

[0077] A frequency of the rhythmic cues may be manually adjustable by the user.

[0078] The pole handle may further include one or more sensors configured to obtain sensor data.

[0079] The one or more sensors may be located in the handle, in the display, or in an external device worn or carried by the user.

[0080] The display may be configured to present the sensor data on the screen.

[0081] A frequency of the rhythmic cues may be adjusted based on the sensor data.

[0082] The sensor data may be used to gamify the movement cues.

[0083] The movement cues may be generated based on inferred sensor data.

[0084] The accessory holder may be removably coupled to the handle.

[0085] The accessory holder may include a magnetic coupling, a mechanical coupling, or a press-fit coupling.

Claims

Claims:

1. A pole handle comprising:a grip portion; anda display positioned at a top of the handle, wherein the display includes a screen to be viewed by a user.

2. A pole handle comprising:a grip portion; andan accessory holder positioned at a top of the handle:wherein the accessory holder is configured to receive and retain a wearable electronic device of a user such that a display of the wearable electronic device is viewable by the user while holding the handle.

3. The pole handle of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the pole handle is coupled to a pole.

4. The pole handle of claim 3, wherein the pole comprises one or more of a trekking pole, a walking pole, a cane, a ski pole, or a rehabilitation pole.

5. The pole handle of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the display is oriented generally upwards at a viewing angle relative to the grip portion.

6. The pole handle of claim 5, wherein the viewing angle is fixed or adjustable.

7. The pole handle of any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the pole handle includes at least one ergonomic feature.

8. The pole handle of claim 7, wherein the ergonomic feature comprises a pinky recess, a wrist support, or both.

9. The pole handle of claim 8, wherein the pinky recess is positioned adjacent to the wrist support.

10. The pole handle of any one of claims 1 or 2, further comprising a strap attachment feature.

11. The pole handle of claim 10, wherein the strap attachment feature comprises a cutout, slot, loop, or projection formed in the handle.

12. The pole handle of claim 2, further comprising a strap attachment feature coupled to the accessory holder.

13. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the display is removably coupled to the handle.

14. The pole handle of claim 13, further comprising an accessory holder, wherein the display is combined with the accessory holder.

15. The pole handle of claim 13, wherein the display is removably coupled to the handle by one or more of a magnetic coupling, a mechanical coupling, or a press-fit coupling.

16. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the display is non-removable and integrated into the handle.

17. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the screen is a touchscreen.

18. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the display comprises a visual output device configured to present information to a user.

19. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the display is configured to present movement-related information to the user during use of the pole.

20. The pole handle of claim 1, wherein the display provides movement cues to the user.

21. The pole handle of claim 20, wherein the movement cues comprise rhythmic cues.

22. The pole handle of claim 20, wherein the movement cues comprise one or more of visual cues, auditory cues, or haptic cues.

23. The pole handle of claim 21, wherein a frequency of the rhythmic cues is manually adjustable by the user.

24. The pole handle of claim 1, further comprising one or more sensors configured to obtain sensor data, wherein the one or more sensors are located in the handle, in the display, or in an external device worn or carried by the user.

25. The pole handle of claim 24, wherein the display is configured to present the sensor data on the screen.

26. The pole handle of claim 24, wherein a frequency of movement cues is adjusted based on the sensor data.

27. The pole handle of claim 24, wherein the sensor data is used to gamify movement cues.

28. The pole handle of claim 20, wherein the movement cues are generated based on inferred sensor data.

29. The pole handle of claim 2, wherein the accessory holder is removably coupled to the handle.

30. The pole handle of claim 2, wherein the accessory holder comprises a magnetic coupling, a mechanical coupling, or a press-fit coupling.

Images