United States Patent 1191
`Ulrich et al.
`
`111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 111111111111111111
`US005466200A
`1111 Patent Number:
`[45] Date of Patent:
`
`5,466,200
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`(54] INTERACTIVE EXERCISE APPARATUS
`
`[75]
`
`Inventors: W. Thatcher Ulrich, Boston; Harvey
`A. Koselka; Aaron F. Bobick, both of
`Newton; Michael H. Benjamin,
`Quincy, all of Mass.
`
`[73] Assignee: CyberGear, Inc., Cambridge, Mass.
`
`4,709,917
`4,710,129
`4,711,447
`4,720,789
`4,771,394
`
`12/1987 Yang ......................................... 272/73
`12/1987 Newman et al. ......................... 434/55
`12/1987 Mansfield .................................. 272/73
`1/1988 Hector et al . ........................... 364/410
`9/1988 Cavanagh ................................ 364/561
`
`(List continued on next page.)
`
`FOREIGN PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`(21) Appl. No.: 189,896
`
`[22) Filed:
`
`Feb. 1, 1994
`
`(63]
`
`(51)
`[52]
`
`[58)
`
`(56]
`
`Related U.S. Application Data
`
`Continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 12,305, Feb. 2, 1993, aban(cid:173)
`doned.
`Int. CI.6 •••••.••.•.•••••••••••••••••••.•.•• .••.•• .••.•••••••• A63B 21/00
`U.S. Cl . .......................... 481/4; 48211; 482/3; 48216;
`482157; 482/901
`Field of Search ................................ 48211-8, 52, 53,
`482157, 72, 900-902; 434/157, 247
`
`References Cited
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`811972 Dahl ............................................ 35/11
`3,686,776
`3/1973 Brown ......................................... 273/1
`3,722,884
`3.767,195 10/1973 Dimick .
`9/1975 Bisberg ....................................... 35/11
`3,903,613
`4,049,262 9/1977 Cunningham, Jr. ......................... 272/1
`4,141,630
`2/1979 Emmons ................................. 352/132
`4,170,834 10/1979 Smart ...................................... 434/157
`4,196,528 4/1990 Focrnt .......................................... 35/11
`4,358,105 11/1982 Sweeney, Jr ..
`4,418,911 1211983 Bowers et al ..........•.................. 273/85
`4,461,470
`7/1984 Astrolll et al ............................. 273/85
`4,464,117
`8/1984 Focrnt ...............•........................ 434/67
`4,478,407 10/1984 Manahe ..................................... 272/18
`4,512,567
`4/1985 Phillips ..................................... 272/73
`4,512,567
`4/1985 Phillips.
`4,527,980
`7/1985 Miller ........................................ 434/55
`4,542,897
`9/1985 Melton et al ..
`4,572,509
`2/1986 Sitrick ....................................... 273/85
`4,616,829 10/1986 Smack, SL et al ....................... 273/86
`4,630,817 12/1986 Buckley .................................... 272173
`4,637,605
`1/1987 Ritchie ...................................... 272/73
`
`0028209
`0354785
`9216659.8
`2194369
`W0/87/00066
`
`6/1981 European Pat. Off . .
`2/1990 European Pat. Off ..
`7/1992 Germany .
`3/1988 United Kingdom .
`1/1987 WlPO .
`
`OTHER PUBLICATIONS
`
`International Search Report (4 pages) for related case PCT/
`US94/01247.
`Citation; Virtual Reality Gallery at SIGGRAPH' 1991 1
`page.
`"DIS and Virtual Reality Networking with YR- Link", Vir(cid:173)
`tual Reality World, Mar.I Apr. 1994, page 8.
`
`Primary Examiner-Richard J. Apley
`Assis1an1 Examiner-{lleon E. Richman
`Auorney, Agent, or Fim1-Testa, Hurwitz & Thibeault
`
`[57]
`
`ABSTRACT
`
`An interactive exercise apparatus engages a user's mind and
`body. Toe appararus comprises an exercise mechanism and
`a steering mechanism for manipulation by the user to
`achieve exercise and to indicate a direction of motion. A
`simulated environment is generated by a computer and
`displayed oo a display system for the user. The user manipu(cid:173)
`lates the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to
`freely navigate through the simulated environment. The
`computer monitors the exercise mechanism and the steering
`mechanism to detemrine user position in the simulated
`environment. The display is periodically updated by the
`computer to provide a continuous visual display of the user' s
`position as the user travels through the simulated environ(cid:173)
`ment. A plurality of the interactive exercise apparatus can be
`networked together to allow group participation in the
`simulated environment.
`
`24 Claims, 12 Drawing Sheets
`
`USE.R WEIGHT
`
`46
`'\
`50
`'-
`2f STEERl'IG / TILT
`
`PIDA1. SP£ED
`
`,---------
`····-·
`
`----....... - - - '
`
`SVA1J1AT£D 3·D
`ENVlRONMENT
`
`. . . '
`
`58
`
`............................ ,
`
`COMPUTE UPOAT£0
`POSlllON &STATE
`Of USER AND
`Ol};ER OBJECTS IN
`3D ENVIRONMENT
`
`56
`
`--~
`
`62
`
`60
`
`UPDATI: PEDAi.
`RESISTANCE &
`FAN SPEED
`
`NElV/ORK
`
`• - - • • • • • • ~ FlOW OF INFORMATION
`-
`-
`-
`FlOW OF CONTROL
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 1
`
`

`

`5,466,200
`Page 2
`
`U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS
`
`4,786,049
`4,817,938
`4,817,939
`4,860,763
`4,887,%6
`4,887,967
`4,891,748
`4,919,416
`4,925,183
`
`11/1988 Lautenschlager ............... ,......... 272f73
`4/1989 Nakao et al ..
`4/1989 Augspurger et al ..
`8/1989 Schminke ................................ 12sno1
`12/1989 Gellermann ............................... 434/45
`12/1989 Letovsky et al .......................... 434/61
`1/1990 Mann ...................................... 364/410
`4/1990 De Cloux .................................. 482/53
`5/1990 Kim .......................................... 272f73
`
`4,932,651
`4,938,475
`5,031,900
`5,031,901
`5,031,902
`5,051,638
`5,072,929
`5,213,555
`5,240,417
`
`6/1990 Defaux ...................................... 272f73
`7/1990 Sargeant et al. .......................... 272f73
`7/1991 Leask.
`7/1991 Saarinen.
`7/1991 Findlay.
`9/1991 Pyles.
`12/1991 Peterson et al. .
`5/1993 Hood et al. ............................... 482/57
`8/1993 Smithson et al. ......................... 434/61
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 2
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 1 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`0
`N
`
`,J
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`>- ~
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`~
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`\ 0 .....
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 3
`
`

`

`·U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 2 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`22\
`
`25
`
`34
`
`24
`
`Fig. 2A
`
`32
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 4
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 3 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`42
`
`Fig. 2B
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 5
`
`

`

`USER WEIGHT
`
`PEDAL SPEED
`
`STEERING / TILT
`
`I - - - - - - - - •
`
`- I
`----------•
`- I
`
`.
`
`I - - - - - - - - •
`
`f 54
`
`RECEIVE INPUTS
`
`,
`
`SIMULATED 3-D
`ENVIRONMENT
`
`--+--
`
`___________ .,.
`
`58
`
`I
`I
`I
`I
`
`~------(cid:173)
`
`COMPUTE UPDATED )56
`POSITION & STATE
`OF USER AND
`OTHER OBJECTS IN
`3D ENVIRONMENT
`---------- ---------, I
`--------------
`•---------- -----,
`,
`'
`'
`60 J
`
`t
`NETWORK
`
`I
`
`Fig. 3
`
`UPDATE PEDAL
`RESISTANCE &
`FAN SPEED
`
`_/'62
`
`GENERA TE AUDIO &
`VISUAL DISPLAY OF
`30 ENVIRONMENT
`+
`- - - - - - - - _.,.. FLOW OF INFORMATION
`----1 .... FLOW OF CONTROL
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 6
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 5 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`Fig. 4
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 7
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 6 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`Lt") .
`C) u::
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 8
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 7 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`76
`
`24
`
`32
`
`Fig. 6
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 9
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 8 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`2-WAY
`COMMUNICATIONS
`
`94
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`90
`
`92
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`Fig. 7
`
`2-WAY
`COMMUNICATIONS
`
`108
`
`106
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`96
`
`98
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`100
`Fig. 8
`
`112
`
`104
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`102
`
`120
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`102
`
`LOW-BANDWIDTH SIGNAL
`
`116
`
`114
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`96
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`100
`
`EXERCISE
`APPARATUS
`
`98
`
`122
`
`BROADCAST SIGNAL
`
`Fig. 9
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 10
`
`

`

`12
`
`14
`
`SUPPORT
`STRUCTURE
`
`MEANS FOR
`USER-INITIATED
`AEROBIC EXERCISE
`
`~ •
`00. •
`
`~ i = f"t"-
`
`20
`
`DISPLAY .
`SYSTEM
`
`18
`
`COMPUTER
`
`STEERING
`MECHANISM
`
`16
`
`10 /
`
`Fig. 10
`
`NETWORK INTERFACE
`.------~ 128
`MODEM
`
`126
`
`124
`
`132
`
`BUFFER MEMORY
`
`127
`
`130
`
`VOICE/DATA
`MUX/DEMUX
`
`CABLE DECODER (AID)
`
`121
`
`SPEAKER
`
`TELEPHONE
`
`CABLE TV
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 11
`
`

`

`50
`
`USER WEIGHT
`
`PEDAL SPEED
`
`STEERING / TILT
`
`-----1
`I ---------
`--------------
`---------
`-----·
`
`I
`
`54
`
`RECEIVE INPUTS
`
`...,.. _____________
`
`56
`
`SIMULA TED 3-0
`ENVIRONMENT
`
`58
`
`COMPUTE UPDATED
`POSITION & STATE
`OF USER AND
`OTHER OBJECTS IN
`30 ENVIRONMENT
`L--------------------- -------------------~
`
`' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - . . .
`
`I
`
`134\
`
`136
`
`NETWORK
`
`DOWNLOADING
`MODE
`
`60
`
`UPDATE PEDAL
`RESISTANCE &
`FAN SPEED
`
`GENERA TE AUDIO &
`VISUAL DISPLAY OF
`30 ENVIRONMENT
`
`62
`
`SEND DATABASE
`OF SIMULATED 3D
`ENVIRONMENT
`
`RECEIVE DATABASE
`OF SIMULATED 30
`ENVIRONMENT
`
`----------- FLOW OF INFORMATION
`
`- - - - FLOW OF CONTROL
`
`INTERACTIVE
`MODE
`
`SEND STATE OF
`LOCALLY MODELED
`OBJECTS (USER)
`
`RECEIVE STATE
`OF OBJECTS
`
`138
`
`Fig. 11
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 12
`
`

`

`INCOMING
`DATA LINES
`
`INPUT
`PROCESSOR
`
`(MODEMS)
`
`•
`•
`•
`
`HUB
`PROCESSOR
`
`INPUT
`DATA
`QUEUE
`
`FOR BROADCAST SYSTEMS
`BROADCAST
`OUTPUT BUFFER
`
`FOR DIRECT SYSTEMS
`
`OUTPUT BUFFER
`
`140
`
`142
`
`144
`
`148
`
`1S2
`
`150
`
`BROADCAST
`ENCODER
`ID/ A CONVERSION)
`
`-
`
`CABLE TY
`SIGNAL
`
`OUTPUT
`PROCESSOR
`
`(MODEMS)
`
`•
`• •
`
`Fig. 12
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 13
`
`

`

`U.S. Patent
`
`Nov. 14, 1995
`
`Sheet 12 of 12
`
`5,466,200
`
`156
`
`INCOMING
`DATA
`QUEUE
`.
`I - - - - -
`
`I
`
`162
`
`DATABASE
`LIBRARY
`
`REQUEST
`FOR
`DATABASE
`
`160
`
`FIND SELECTED
`DATABASE
`
`164
`
`154
`
`REQUEST FOR DATABASE
`OR
`OBJECT STATE UPDATE?
`
`168
`
`174
`
`OBJECT STATE
`UPDATE
`
`170
`
`RECORD NEW - - I
`STATE
`I
`I
`
`BREAK INTO PACKETS
`ADDRESS TO USER(Sl
`
`ADD TO OUTGOING
`MESSAGE QUEUE
`
`-
`
`OUTGOING
`MESSAGE
`QUEUE
`
`' - - - - - .1
`
`'
`
`READ NEXT
`OUTGOING MESSAGE
`
`i
`
`DETERMINE
`TARGETED USER
`GROUP
`
`166
`
`FOR DIRECT NETWORK
`
`ADDRESS TO
`INDNIDUAL GROUP
`MEMBERS
`+
`DISPATCH MESSAGES
`I
`
`ADD TO OUTGOING
`MESSAGE QUEUE
`
`I
`I
`'f
`
`OBJECT
`DATABASE
`
`176
`
`172
`
`-
`
`!
`I
`I
`I
`I
`I
`I
`I
`I
`1..- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - '
`FOR BROADCAST
`
`i/178
`
`.•
`
`lf 180
`
`182
`
`SORT A SET OF
`MESSAGES BY
`TARGET GROUP
`1
`DISPATCH MESSAGES
`I
`
`184./
`
`186
`
`Fig. 13
`
`- - - - - FLOW OF CONTROL
`-- - -- --- .... FLOW OF DATA
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 14
`
`

`

`5,466,200
`
`1
`INTERACTIVE EXERCISE APPARATUS
`
`CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED
`APPLICATION
`
`This is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application
`Ser. No. 08/012,305 which was filed on Feb. 2, 1993,
`abandoned.
`
`FIELD OF THE INVENTION
`
`This invention relates generally to exercise equipment and
`networkable exercise equipment.
`
`BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
`
`15
`
`SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
`
`An object of the present invention is to provide exercise
`equipment which makes aerobic exercise less boring and
`more fun. To accomplish this, the present invention utilizes
`digital graphics, interactive software, a mechanism for aero(cid:173)
`bic exercise, steering controls, and a display system to
`
`2
`provide exercise equipment which is competitive, engaging
`and fun. The graphics, interactive software, and display
`engage a user mentally while the exercise and steering
`mechanisms engage the user physically. As such, a workout
`with the exercise equipment of the present invention can be
`as exciting as participating in team sports but with health
`club or home convenience.
`To accomplish the above-stated object, the invention also
`contemplates the interconnection of two or more exercise
`10 machines via computer networking (or, more generally, via
`any type of analog and/or digital communication system)
`such that the users of the exercise machines can interact with
`each other as teammates or competitors in a variety of
`athletic events including basketball games, baseball games,
`football games, bicycle races, and swimming races. By
`networking two or more exercise machines, the users of the
`machines can participate in team sports at home or at the
`local health club.
`In one aspect, the present invention is directed to an
`exercise apparatus comprising a support structure for sup(cid:173)
`porting a user. The support structure can include a bicycle
`seat or a bucket seat such that the apparatus resembles an
`exercise cycle. An exercise mechanism, such as a pair of
`cycling pedals, can be initiated by the user for providing
`aerobic exercise. A steering mechanism, such as a pair of
`handles, is disposed proximate the support structure. The
`exercise apparatus further comprises a processor which
`generates an interactive simulated environment and a dis-
`play system spaced from the user providing a visual display
`of the simulated environment.
`During a workout, the user manipulates the exercise
`mechanism and the steering mechanism to freely navigate
`through the simulated environment. The processor monitors
`the exercise mechanism and the steering mechanism to
`determine user position in the simulated environment. The
`display is updated by the processor to provide a continuous
`visual display of the user's position as the user navigates
`substantially unrestricted through the simulated environ-
`ment.
`The processor is capable of running many different pro(cid:173)
`grams to provide a variety of simulated environments. Some
`programs provide roads, terrain, and obstacles for the user
`and the user's competition. Other programs may provide
`new worlds for the user to explore or even allow the user to
`travel across the solar system. Each program provides a
`simulated environment which can be multi-dimensional to
`appear more realistic. The user views the simulated envi(cid:173)
`ronment or world through the display system. The user
`freely navigates through the environment using the exercise
`mechanism and the steering mechanism. In other words,
`usertravel in the simulated environment is substantially
`unr;stricted. Thus, the user can travel across roads and trails
`or choose to travel across grass, water, or other more
`challenging terrain.
`A user operating the exercise apparatus of the present
`invention manipulates the exercise mechanism and steering
`mechanism. The exercise mechanism may comprise a pair of
`interconnected cycling pedals. Further, instead of employing
`60 a traditional flywheel and freewheel to provide for pedal
`resistance, a closed loop digital control system may be used
`to electronically control pedaling revolutions. The control
`system includes a digital controller which controls a pedal
`resistance device electronically, thereby emulating a fly-
`65 wheel/freewheel to provide the proper combination of pedal
`resistance and inertia for smooth pedaling revolutions.
`The steering mechanism may be coupled to a stationary
`
`40
`
`55
`
`It is known that physical fitness is of prime importance to
`many people. Historically, people have been able to main(cid:173)
`tain an acceptable level of fitness simply due to their
`everyday lives. As lifestyles have become progressively
`more sedentary, people have been forced to seek exercise in 20
`other ways.
`A portion of society keeps in shape by participating in
`group exercise events such as tennis, hockey, or basketball
`games. Such games are forms of "fun exercise" in that
`participants often take part in such events because they 25
`simply enjoy the games or the competition and not solely for
`the purpose of fitness. However, it is often difficult to
`coordinate the people and facilities required for many rec(cid:173)
`reational and team sports. Individual sports such as bicy(cid:173)
`cling, running and swimming are a viable alternative in that 30
`they allow for flexible schedules. The disadvantages to these
`sports is that they are location and weather dependent.
`A large segment of society finds it easier and more
`convenient to go to health clubs or to use home exercise
`equipment to exercise. Health clubs have extended hours 35
`and a wide range of fitness equipment that allows workout
`schedules to be flexible and workouts to be quick. Unfor(cid:173)
`tunately, current exercise equipment makes working out a
`chore that is tolerated due to the importance of cardiovas(cid:173)
`cular (aerobic) fitness.
`Exercise equipment generally falls into two categories:
`strength and aerobic. Strength equipment includes tradi(cid:173)
`tional free weights as well as machines on which the weight
`is not directly attached to the lifting bars. The user lifts the
`weights in different ways to strengthen various muscle 45
`groups. Aerobic machines improve the user's cardiovascular
`system and tone muscles rather than building muscles and
`strength. Aerobic equipment includes exercise cycles, tread(cid:173)
`mills and stair climbers. Typically, the required speed or
`resistance can be varied during a workout. A control panel 50
`equipped with a set of light emitting diodes (LEDs) may be
`provided to depict the routine as a histogram. An average
`workout lasts approximately 20 minutes. Biomechanical
`feedback such as calories burned may also be displayed on
`the control panel.
`The most conventional ways to exercise often are not
`necessarily the most fun. Thus, a need exists for fun exercise
`equipment which makes workouts more enjoyable and
`entices more people to exercise.
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 15
`
`

`

`5,466,200
`
`3
`base by a mechanical linkage. As the user manipulates the
`steering mechanism, the mechanical linkage causes tilting of
`the user relative to the base. This feature simulates the
`turning action of a bicycle or the like, serving to further
`engage the user in the exercising experience. In fact, the
`frame can tilt up to 15 degrees or more to either side of a
`longitudinal vertical plane.
`In another aspect of the invention, the processor of an
`exercise apparatus is part of a computer which is network(cid:173)
`able to computers of other exercise apparatus. When two or 10
`more of these exercise apparatus are interconnected, they
`can communicate and exchange information to allow the
`users to engage in simulated sporting events as teammates or
`competitors.
`Other objects, aspects, features, and advantages of the 15
`invention will become apparent from the following descrip(cid:173)
`tion and from the claims.
`
`BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
`
`4
`Referring to FIG. 1, an exercise device 10 comprises a
`support structure 12 for supporting a user. The support
`structure 12 may include a bicycle seat or bucket seat. An
`exercise mechanism 14 for providing aerobic exercise to a
`user, such as cycling pedals, is disposed proximate the
`support structure 12. A steering mechanism 16, such as
`handles or handlebars, is also positioned near the support
`structure 12.
`An interactive simulated environment is generated by a
`processor 18, such as a computer, and displayed on a display
`system 20. The display system comprises a viewing screen
`or multiple viewing screens to provide a wider field of view.
`The user manipulates the exercise mechanism 14 and/or the
`steering mechanism 16 to freely navigate through the envi-
`ronment displayed on the display. To accomplish this, the
`processor 18 monitors the exercise mechanism 14 and the
`steering mechanism 16 to determine user position in the
`simulated environment. The processor 18 controls the level
`of difficulty of the exercise mechanism 14 to simulate
`characteristics (i.e. topography, terrain, etc.) of the environ-
`20 ment. The display 20 is periodically updated by the com(cid:173)
`puter 18 to provide a continuous visual display of the user's
`position as the user travels substantially unrestricted in the
`simulated environment.
`In one embodiment, the present invention is directed to an
`exercise cycling apparatus as shown in FIG. 2A. The appa(cid:173)
`ratus 22 includes a frame 24 movably mounted to a station(cid:173)
`ary base 26. A bucket seat 25 is mounted to the frame 24.
`The seat 25 enables a user to be seated in the recumbent
`30 position which provides several biomechanical and aerobic
`advantages. Recumbent cycling engages the gluteus maxi(cid:173)
`mus, the largest muscle group, to provide for maximum
`aerobic activity before reaching the anaerobic threshold. The
`bucket seat 25 makes the recumbent position very comfort-
`35 able for long rides. In addition, the recumbent position is less
`intimidating to overweight users. It is noted, however, that
`the present invention can employ the more common upright
`exercise bicycle frame and seat without departing from the
`scope of the invention.
`A pair of cycling pedals 27 extend from a pedal resistance
`device 28. The pedal resistance device 28 is adjustable so
`that the pedals 27 can always be within reach of a short or
`long-legged user. A user exercises by manipulating the
`pedals 27. Two vertically oriented handles 30 are coupled by
`45 a mechanical linkage 72 (see FIG. 5) to the frame 24 for
`steering the cycle 22. The handles 30 are positioned so that
`one handle is located on each side the seat 25. As the user
`manipulates the handles 24, the mechanical linkage cause
`tilting of the frame 24 relative to the base 26. This feature
`50 simulates the turning action of a bicycle and is explained in
`detail below.
`A computer 32 capable of generating an interactive simu-
`lated environment is mounted to an L-shaped leg 36 which
`extends from the stationary base 26. The computer 32 can be
`powered by many different types of microprocessors. One
`embodiment of the invention includes a personal computer
`based on the Intel 486 microprocessor. Other computers,
`such as those based on the Motorola 68040 processor can be
`used. Regardless of the type of microprocessor employed,
`the computer typically also includes one or more electronic
`storage devices for storing one or more databases which
`describe the simulated environment(s). The storage devices
`can include CD-ROMs, hard disk drives, floppy disk drives,
`read only memories (ROMs), or random access memories
`(RAMs). At run time, the microprocessor reads the appro(cid:173)
`priate data from the database and constructs the desired
`simulated environment.
`
`In the drawings, like reference characters generally refer
`to the same parts throughout the different views. Also, the
`drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead
`being placed on illustrating the principles of the invention.
`FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an interactive exercise
`apparatus illustrating the principles of the present invention. 25
`FIG. 2A is a side view of an interactive exercise cycle of
`the present invention.
`FIG. 2B is a top view of an alternative interactive exercise
`cycle which includes a plurality of visual display units.
`FIG. 3 is a flow chart illustrating one process for deter(cid:173)
`mining a user's position as the user freely navigates through
`a simulated environment.
`FIG. 4 is a partial perspective view of the interactive
`exercise cycle of FIG. 2A illustrating a frame movably
`mounted on a stationary base.
`FIG. 5 is an exploded partially cut-away view of FIG. 4
`illustrating a mechanical linkage connecting the steering
`mechanism to the base.
`FIG. 6 is a cross-section view of a pedal resistance device 40
`used in the interactive exercise cycle of FIG. 2A.
`FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an exercise apparatus-to(cid:173)
`exercise apparatus network according to the invention.
`FIG. 8 is a block diagram of a network in which a hub
`controls communications between two or more exercise
`apparatus ("nodes") by receiving information from all nodes
`and directing information to all of, or to a subset of all of,
`the nodes.
`FIG. 9 is a block diagram of a network in which a hub
`receives information from all network nodes and broadcasts
`information to all nodes.
`FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the interactive exercise
`apparatus of FIG. 1 with a network interface.
`FIG. 11 is a flow chart, similar to the flow chart of FIG.
`3, which illustrates a process for determining a user's
`position as the user freely navigates through a simulated
`environment.
`FIG. 12 is a block diagram of the hub of FIG. 8 or FIG. 60
`
`55
`
`9.
`
`FIG. 13 is a flow chart illustrating a process for message
`processing in the hub of FIG. 8 or FIG. 9.
`DESCRIPTION
`
`The present invention is generally directed to interactive
`exercise equipment which engages a user's mind and body.
`
`65
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 16
`
`

`

`5,466,200
`
`5
`A viewing screen, such as a television monitor 35, is
`positioned opposite the seat 25 and oriented to be viewed by
`a seated user. The monitor 35 may be capable of showing
`computer generated graphics as well as standard TV and
`VCR images. The monitor 35 is connected to the computer 5
`32 to provide a visual (and optional audio) display of the
`simulated environment. While the monitor 35 can be any
`size, a larger monitor is preferred. A variable speed fan 38
`is mounted adjacent to the monitor 35. The computer 32
`regulates the speed of the fan 38 to provide an air flow which 10
`simulates wind speed.
`Referring to FIG. 2B, a central viewing monitor 44 and
`two side monitors 46 can be employed. The two side
`monitors 46 provide peripheral vision which enhances the
`user's sense of motion. The side monitors may also be 15
`employed for biomechanical data and/or status displays.
`Referring back to FIG. 2A, a user operates the apparatus
`22 by pedaling the cycling pedals 27 and steering with the
`handles 30 to freely navigate through the simulated envi(cid:173)
`ronment. The computer 32 can vary the pedal resistance felt 20
`by the user by controlling the pedal resistance device 28. The
`computer 32 monitors pedal speed and steering direction to
`determine the user's position in the simulated environment.
`Based on the user's action, the computer 32 provides the
`monitor 35 with updated views of the simulated environ- 25
`ment which corresponds to the user's position. The monitor
`35 provides the user with an ongoing visual display of the
`simulated environment based on the user's position therein
`as the user freely navigates in the environment.
`The computer 32 is capable of running many different
`interactive programs to provide a variety of environments.
`Some programs provide roads, terrain, and obstacles for the
`user. Other programs include underwater adventure, pedal
`powered flight simulators, and space travel. Each program
`provides a simulated environment which the user views
`through the television monitor 35. The user freely navigates
`in the environment using the pedals 27 and the steering
`handles 30. In other words, user travel in the simulated
`environment is substantially unrestricted. Thus, the user can
`travel across roads and trails or chose to travel across grass
`and water as well as other more challenging terrain.
`Many existing exercise machines and video games have a
`start-up sequence which requires a user to enter certain facts,
`such as weight, skill level, desired course and length of 45
`workout. The information is usually gathered through a set
`of buttons with LED indicators. However, this type of
`interrogation can be confusing and
`time-consuming.
`Accordingly, the cycling apparatus 22 may gather some of
`this type of information indirectly. For example, a sensing 50
`device (69 in FIG. 5) can be incorporated into the seat 25 for
`automatically weighing a user. Other information may be
`gathered by means of the user navigating the cycle down the
`path of choice. For example, a person who desires a tough
`workout could head for a hilly path. Other choices may be 55
`indicated by road signs or other markers. By using this
`navigational metaphor, the user is able to make choices in a
`natural and intuitive manner. If the user misses a choice he
`or she can simply turn around.
`The computer 32 may be adapted to participate in a 60
`communication network connecting
`several exercise
`devices. As such, multiple users can exercise in the same
`simulated environment. This feature stimulates impromptu
`races and competition among users. By allowing users to
`navigate freely around the same environment, they can 65
`engage in friendly touring or fierce competition on a spur of
`the moment basis. This network feature is described in more
`
`35
`
`30
`
`40
`
`6
`detail below with reference to FIGS. 7-13.
`A general process flow sequence of the interactive soft(cid:173)
`ware within the computer 32 is shown in FIG. 3. Once a
`particular environment has been selected, the computer
`monitors a variety of parameters including user weight 48,
`pedal speed 50, and steering/tilt 52 (step 54). The computer
`uses these parameters to update the user's position and
`direction in the environment (step 56). Subsequently, the
`computer generates a visual (and optionally audio) image of
`the environment based on the updated position of the user
`(step 62). The monitor 35 displays updated images at least
`7 times/second. The computer 32 updates pedal resistance to
`simulate such elements as hills, gear changes, road surfaces,
`simulated headwinds, and drafting of opponents (step 60).
`The fan speed can be modulated to correspond to the
`simulated windspeed and speed of travel. Finally, the com(cid:173)
`puter 32 may also generate sounds and background music.
`One or more speakers for projecting the sound can be
`located in/on the computer, in/on the display(s), or else(cid:173)
`where in/on the exercise machine (e.g., in/on the seat near
`the user's head). (A microphone and a speaker are shown in
`FIG. 10 and described below with reference to that draw(cid:173)
`ing.)
`A detailed illustration of the seating portion of the exer(cid:173)
`cise apparatus 22 is provided in FIG. 4. The seat 25 upon
`which the user sits is mounted onto the frame 24. The frame
`24 is movably mounted to the base 26 by hinges 64.
`Although only one hinge 64 is shown, it is noted that one or
`more hinges are used. Push button controls can be provided
`on the handles 30 for shifting gears and other interactive
`functions.
`Referring to FIG. 5, a mechanical linkage 72 allows the
`frame 24 to tilt relative to the base (up to 15 degrees or more
`to either side of the longitudinal vertical plane) in response
`to manipulation of the handles 30 for simulating the turning
`action of a bicycle. The handles 30 are connected to the
`mechanical linkage 72 by a beam 68. The mechanical
`linkage 72 includes a horizontal beam 70 positioned
`between a pair of vertical posts 71. The posts 71 extend from
`the stationary base 26. The mechanical linkage also includes
`bearings 73 mounted in the frame 24 and holding a pivoting
`vertical post 74.
`As the user manipulates the handles 30 back and forth (as
`indicated by the arrows) to steer in the simulated environ(cid:173)
`ment, the beam 68 turns causing the vertical and horizontal
`posts (74, 70) to move in the same direction laterally. The
`horizontal post 70 contacts the vertical post 71 which pushes
`the frame 24 in the opposite direction. This causes frame 24
`to tilt about the hinge 64 causing the seat 25 and the pedals
`27 to tilt accordingly.
`A pair of springs 7 5 are positioned on opposite sides of the
`seat 25. The springs 75 are disposed between the frame 24
`and the base 26 for centering the frame 24 once the user lets
`up on the handles 30 or gets off the seat 25. As such, the
`springs 75 serve as a self-centering mechanism to ensure
`that the seat 25 is vertically aligned for easy mounting and
`dismounting.
`A sensing device 69 located under the seat 25 measures
`the user's weight and adjusts the stiffness of the self(cid:173)
`centering springs 75. The springs 75 are adjusted to stiffer
`settings for heavier persons and less stiff settings for lighter
`persons. As such, each user can experience the full range of
`tilting motion.
`Additional sensors may be employed in and around the
`seat 25 to noninvasively monitor, for example, the user's
`heart rate, pedal speed, and power output. For example, the
`
`Petitioner Riot Games, Inc. - Ex. 1012, p. 17
`
`

`

`5,466,200
`
`10
`
`15
`
`7
`sensing device 69 provides an estimate of the user's body
`weight. These inputs are used by the computer software to
`determine the caloric output of the user.
`It is noted that the apparatus of the present invention can
`employ a traditional freewheel and flywheel to provide
`pedaling resist