Exercise Device Communication Protocol for Low-Latency Data Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing communication protocols for software-driven exercise devices, such as Bluetooth low energy and FTMS, are limited in capability and do not support the robust, low-latency, and power-efficient communication needed for modern exercise systems with variable resistance and simulation features, lacking expandability for future functionalities.
Innovation Solution
A three-part communication protocol utilizing a custom implementation of Bluetooth® with asynchronous, synchronous transmit, and synchronous receive channels, along with USB or 802.11x wireless connections, to enable simultaneous data transmission and reception, supporting notifications, settings, and status updates without requiring confirmation, thereby reducing latency and conserving power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing communication protocols (Bluetooth low energy, FTMS) are used, then device compatibility is maintained, but communication capability and latency are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The communication protocol is segmented into three distinct channels: asynchronous channel for notifications, synchronous transmit channel for commands requiring acknowledgment, and synchronous receive channel for status updates. This segmentation allows each channel to be optimized for its specific function, enabling simultaneous operations without interference and reducing overall communication latency.
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol implements dynamic channel allocation and adaptive data transmission modes. The system can dynamically switch between asynchronous and synchronous communication based on data priority and timing requirements, optimizing real-time performance while maintaining compatibility with existing Bluetooth low energy infrastructure.
2Reliability
If existing communication protocols are used, then power consumption is reduced, but communication robustness and expandability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The communication protocol includes built-in acknowledgment and confirmation mechanisms where receiving devices automatically send status responses. This self-service approach ensures reliable delivery without requiring additional power-intensive error correction protocols, as the system naturally handles transmission verification through the synchronous channel architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The protocol is designed with a universal message structure that can handle multiple function types (notifications, commands, status updates, data transfers) through a single standardized framework. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate specialized protocols, reducing overall system complexity and power consumption while maintaining robust communication.
3Productivity
If confirmation-requirement protocols are used, then data accuracy is improved, but communication efficiency and speed are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The protocol applies different confirmation requirements to different channels based on their specific needs. The asynchronous channel operates without confirmations for high-speed notifications, while the synchronous channels implement selective acknowledgment only for critical commands. This localized quality approach ensures data accuracy where needed while maximizing communication efficiency where confirmations are unnecessary.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed a method of operating a server device for use in conjunction with software operating on a client device to engage in exercise, the method includes establishing a three-connection communication protocol connection between the server device and the client device. The first connection is an asynchronous channel for transmission of streamed data to a receiving device, the second connection is a transmission channel for transmission of messages that require a response, and the third connection is a receiving channel for receipt of messages that are responsive to a request. The server substantially simultaneously communicates a first set of data over the first connection and a second set of data over at least one of the second connection and the third connection with both the first and the second set of data passing between the server device and the client device using the three-connection communication protocol.