EXERCISE SYSTEM AND METHOD

A treadmill includes a deck having a continuous track, and a plurality of slats fixedly connected to the track. The treadmill also includes a first post extending from the deck, a second post extending from the deck opposite the first post, and a first arm supported by the first post and including a first rotary control. The treadmill further includes a second arm opposite the first arm and supported by the second post. The second arm includes a second rotary control separate from the first rotary control. The first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill and the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill different from the first function.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This application relates generally to the field of exercise equipment and methods associated therewith. In particular, this application relates to an exercise system and method configured to provide streaming and on-demand exercise classes to one or more users.

BACKGROUND

Humans are competitive by nature, striving to improve their performance both as compared to their own prior efforts and as compared to others. Humans are also drawn to games and other diversions, such that even tasks that a person may find difficult or annoying can become appealing if different gaming elements are introduced. Existing home and gym-based exercise systems and methods frequently lack key features that allow participants to compete with each other, converse with each other, and that gamify exercise activities.

While some existing exercise equipment incorporates diversions such as video displays that present content or performance data to the user while they exercise, these systems lack the ability to truly engage the user in a competitive or gaming scenario that improves both the user's experience and performance. Such systems also lack the ability to facilitate real-time sharing of information, conversation, data, and/or other content between users, as well as between an instructor and one or more users.

To improve the experience and provide a more engaging environment, gyms offer exercise classes such as aerobics classes, yoga classes, or other classes in which an instructor leads participants in a variety of exercises. Such class-based experiences, however, are accessible only at specific times and locations. As a result, they are unavailable to many potential users, generally are very expensive, and often sell-out so that even users in a location convenient to the gym cannot reserve a class. Example embodiments of the present disclosure address these problems, providing an exercise machine, embodied by an example treadmill, that incorporates multimedia inputs and outputs for live streaming or archived instructional content, socially networked audio and video chat, networked performance metrics and competition capabilities, along with a range of gamification features.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a treadmill includes a deck having a continuous track, and a plurality of slats fixedly connected to the track. The treadmill also includes a first post extending from the deck, a second post extending from the deck opposite the first post, and a first arm supported by the first post and including a first rotary control. The treadmill further includes a second arm opposite the first arm and supported by the second post. The second arm includes a second rotary control separate from the first rotary control. The first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill and the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill different from the first function.

In another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a treadmill includes a controller, a first motor operably connected to the controller, a second motor separate from the first motor and operably connected to the controller, a first rotary control operably connected to the controller, and a second rotary control separate from the first rotary control and operably connected to the controller. In such an embodiment, the first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill associated with the first motor. Additionally, the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill associated with the second motor different from the first function.

In a further example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a treadmill includes providing an upper assembly including a first arm, a second arm opposite the first arm, a first crossbar extending from the first arm to the second arm, and a second crossbar opposite the first crossbar and extending from the first arm to the second arm. Such a method also includes connecting a first rotary control to the first arm, the first rotary control including an outer portion rotatable relative to the first arm, and an inner portion including an input device. Such a method further includes connecting a second rotary control to the second arm, the second rotary control including an outer portion rotatable relative to the second arm. Such a method also includes operably connecting the first and second rotary controls to a controller of the treadmill. The first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill via the controller, and the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill via the controller different from the first function.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is presented to enable any person skilled in the art to make and use aspects of the example embodiments described herein. For purposes of explanation, specific nomenclature is set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. Descriptions of specific embodiments or applications are provided only as examples. Various modifications to the embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and general principles defined herein may be applied to other embodiments and applications without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown, but is to be accorded the widest possible scope consistent with the principles and features disclosed herein.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure include networked exercise systems and methods whereby one or more exercise devices, such as treadmills, rowing machines, stationary bicycles, elliptical trainers, or any other suitable equipment, may be equipped with an associated local system that allows a user to fully participate in live instructor-led or recorded exercise classes from any location that can access a suitable communications network. The networked exercise systems and methods may include backend systems with equipment including without limitation servers, digital storage systems, and other hardware as well as software to manage all processing, communications, database, and other functions. The networked exercise systems and methods may also include one or more studio or other recording locations with cameras, microphones, and audio and/or visual outputs where one or more instructors can lead exercise classes and in some embodiments where live exercise classes can be conducted, and where such live and previously recorded classes can be distributed via the communications network. In various embodiments there may be a plurality of recording locations that can interact with each other and/or with any number of individual users.

In various embodiments, the example exercise systems and machines describe herein provide for full interactivity in all directions. Whether remote or in the same location, instructors may be able to interact with users, users may be able to interact with instructors, and users may be able to interact with other users. Through the disclosed networked exercise systems and machines, instructors may be able to solicit feedback from users, and users may be able to provide feedback to the instructor, vote or express opinions on different choices or options, and communicate regarding their experience. Such example exercise systems and machines allow for interaction through all media, including one or more video channels, audio including voice and/or music, and data including a complete range of performance data, vital statistics, chat, voice, and text-based and other communications.

In various embodiments, the exercise systems and machines described herein also allow an unlimited number of remote users to view and participate in the same live or recorded content simultaneously, and in various embodiments they may be able to interact with some or all of the other users viewing same content. Remote users can participate in live exercise classes offered from any available remote recording location, or they can access previously recorded classes archived in the system database. In various embodiments, a plurality of remote users can simultaneously access the same recorded class and interact with each other in real time, or they can access the same recorded class at different times and share data and communications about their performance or other topics.

Thus, the networked exercise systems and machines, and the corresponding methods described herein, provide for content creation, content management and distribution, and content consumption. Various aspects of such exercise systems and machines, and the potential interactions between such machines, will now be described in more detail.

Exercise Machine

Referring generally toFIGS.1through7andFIGS.25-41, in various example embodiments of the present disclosure, a local system100may include an exercise machine102, such as a treadmill, with integrated or connected digital hardware including one or more displays104for use in connection with an instructor lead exercise class and/or for displaying other digital content. While the exercise machine102may be described and/or otherwise referred to herein as a “treadmill102,” as noted above, example exercise machines of the present disclosure may be any suitable type of exercise machine, including a rowing machine, stationary bicycle, elliptical trainer, stair climber, etc.

In various example embodiments, the one or more displays104may be mounted directly to the exercise machine102or otherwise placed within view of a user106. In various exemplary embodiments, the one or more displays104allow the user106to view content relating to a selected exercise class both while working out on the exercise machine102and while working out in one or more locations near or adjacent to the exercise machine102. The exercise machine102may also include a hinge, joint, pivot, bracket or other suitable mechanism to allow for adjustment of the position or orientation of the display104relative to the user106whether they are using the exercise machine102or working out near or adjacent to the exercise machine102.

In example embodiments, the exercise machine102may generally include a lower assembly108, and an upper assembly110connected to the lower assembly108. The lower assembly108may generally include a deck112of the exercise machine102that provides support for the user106(e.g., a running surface) while the user106is working out on the exercise machine102, as well as other components of both the lower assembly108and the upper assembly110. For example, as shown in at least the exploded view ofFIG.26, the deck112may support a first motor114of the exercise machine102configured to increase, decrease, and/or otherwise change an incline of the deck112, a frame of the deck112, and/or the running surface relative to a support surface on which the exercise machine102is disposed. The deck112may also include one or more incline frames116coupled to the motor114and configured to, for example, raise and lower the deck112, frame of the deck112, and/or running surface of the deck112by acting on the support surface when the motor114is activated. The deck112may also include a second motor118configured to increase, decrease, and/or otherwise change a rotational speed of a belt120connected to the deck112. The belt120may be rotatable relative to at least part of the deck112and, in particular, may be configured to revolve or otherwise move completely around (i.e., encircle) at least part of the deck112during use of the exercise machine120. For example, in embodiments in which the exercise machine102comprises a treadmill, the belt120may support the user106and may repeatedly encircle at least part of a frame of the deck112as the user106runs, walks, and/or otherwise works out on the treadmill. Such an example belt120may include one or more continuous tracks122movably coupled to a gear, flywheel, pulley, and/or other member124of the deck112, and such a member124may be coupled to an output shaft or other component of the motor118. In such examples, rotation of the output shaft or other component of the motor118may drive commensurate rotation of the member124. Likewise, rotation of the member124may drive commensurate revolution of the one or more continuous tracks122and/or the belt120generally.

The belt120may also include a plurality of laterally aligned slats126connected to the one or more continuous tracks122. For example, as shown inFIGS.27and28, each slat126may extend substantially parallel to at least one adjacent slat126. Additionally, each slat126may be hingedly, pivotally, and/or otherwise movably coupled to the one or more continuous tracks122via one or more respective couplings140. Such couplings140may comprise, for example, a bracket, pin, screw, clip, bolt, and/or one or more other fastening components configured to secure a respective slat126to the continuous track122while allowing the slat126to pivot, rotate, and/or otherwise move relative to the track122while the belt120revolves about the deck112. As shown in at leastFIG.28, each slat126may also include a top pad142coupled thereto. The top pad142may comprise a plastic, rubber, polymeric, and/or other type of non-slip pad configured to reduce and/or substantially eliminate slipping of the user106when the user is running, walking, and/or otherwise exercising on the exercise machine102. Such a top pad142may also reduce the impact associated with walking and/or running on the exercise machine102, and may thus improve the comfort of the user106during various exercise classes associated with the exercise machine102.

With continued reference toFIG.26, the exercise machine102may also include one or more sidewalls128connected to the deck112. For example, the exercise machine102may include a first sidewall128on a left-hand side of the deck112, and a second sidewall128on the right-hand side of the deck112. Such sidewalls128may be made from cloth, foam, plastic, rubber, polymers, and/or other like material, and in some examples, the sidewalls128may assist in damping and/or otherwise reducing noise generated by one or more of the motors114,118and/or other components of the deck112.

The exercise machine102may also include one or more posts130extending upwardly from the deck112. For example, the exercise machine102may include a first post130on the left-hand side of the deck112, and a second post130on the right-hand side of the deck112. Such posts130may be made from a metal, alloy, plastic, polymer, and/or other like material, and similar such materials may be used to manufacture the deck112, the slats126, and/or other components of the exercise machine102. In such examples, the posts130may be configured to support the display104, and in some examples, the display104may be directly coupled to a crossbar132of the exercise machine102, and the crossbar132may be connected to and/or otherwise supported by the posts130. For example, the crossbar132may comprise one or more hand rests or handles useful in supporting the user106during exercise. In some examples, the crossbar132may be substantially C-shaped, substantially U-shaped, and/or any other configuration. In any of the examples described herein, the crossbar132may extend from a first one of the posts130to a second one of the posts130. Further, in some examples, the posts130and the crossbar132may comprise a single integral component of the upper assembly110. Alternatively, in other examples, the posts130and the crossbar132may comprise separate components of the upper assembly110. In such examples, the upper assembly110may include one or more brackets134, endcaps136, and/or additional components configured to assist in coupling the one or more posts130to the crossbar132.

As noted above, the exercise machine102may also include a hinge, joint, pivot, bracket138and/or other suitable mechanism to allow for adjustment of the position or orientation of the display104relative to the user106whether they are using the exercise machine102or working out near or adjacent to the exercise machine102. For example, such brackets138may include at least one component rigidly connected to the crossbar132. Such brackets138may also include one or more additional components rigidly coupled to the display104. In such examples, the components of the bracket138connected to the display104may be moveable, with the display104relative to the components of the bracket138connected to the crossbar132. Such components may include one or more dove-tail slider mechanism, channels, and/or other components enabling the display104to controllably slide and/or otherwise move relative to the crossbar132. Such components may also enable to the user106to fix the position of the display104relative to the crossbar132once the user106has positioned the display104as desired.

As shown in at leastFIG.29, the exercise machine102may also include one or more rotary controls144,146configured to receive input from the user106. The exercise machine102may further include one or more sensors147configured to sense, detect, and/or otherwise determine one or more performance parameters of the user106before, during, and/or after the user106participates in an exercise class using the exercise machine102. In any of the examples described herein, the rotary controls144,146and the one or more sensors147may be operably and/or otherwise connected to one or more controllers, processors, and/or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine102.

The digital hardware148associated with the exercise machine102may be connected to or integrated with the exercise machine102, or it may be located remotely and wired or wirelessly connected to the exercise machine102. The digital hardware148may include digital storage, one or more processors or other like computers or controllers, communications hardware, software, and/or one or more media input/output devices such as displays, cameras, microphones, keyboards, touchscreens, headsets, and/or audio speakers. In various exemplary embodiments these components may be connected to and/or otherwise integrated with the exercise machine102. All communications between and among such components of the digital hardware148may be multichannel, multi-directional, and wireless or wired, using any appropriate protocol or technology. In various exemplary embodiments, the digital hardware148of the exercise machine102may include associated mobile and web-based application programs that provide access to account, performance, and other relevant information to users from local or remote exercise machines, processors, controllers, personal computers, laptops, mobile devices, or any other digital device or digital hardware. In any of the examples described herein, the one or more controllers, processors, and/or other digital hardware148associated with the exercise machine102may be operable to perform one or more functions associated with control logic150of the exercise machine102. Such control logic150is illustrated schematically in at leastFIG.30, and such control logic150may comprise one or more rules, programs, or other instructions stored in a memory of the digital hardware148. For example, one or more processors included in the digital hardware148may be programmed to perform operations in accordance with rules, programs, or other instructions of the control logic150, and such processors may also be programmed to perform one or more additional operations in accordance with and/or at least partly in response to input received via one or more of the rotary controls144,146and/or via one or more of the sensors147.

As shown inFIGS.31and32, one or more such rotary controls144,146may comprise an infinity wheel-type control144. Such a rotary control144may be useful in changing and/or otherwise controlling, for example, the incline, decline, and/or other position of the deck112relative to the support surface on which the exercise machine102is disposed, the speed of the belt120(e.g., the rotational speed of the continuous track122, slats126, and/or other components of the belt120), the substantially instantaneous starting and/or stopping of the belt120, selection of one or more exercise classes to be played via the display104, changing one or more operating modes of the exercise machine102, and/or other functions of the exercise machine102. In an example embodiment, such a rotary control144may include an outer portion152(e.g., a rotary dial, knob, button, or other component) that is rotatable relative to the post130, crossbar132, and/or other component of the exercise machine102to which the rotary control144is connected. The rotary control144may further include a frame154(e.g., an encoder or other stationary component) to which the outer portion152is connected. In such examples, the frame154(e.g., the encoder or other component connected to and/or associated with the frame154) may include one or more detents or other components/structures that may be tuned for a desired incremental change in a corresponding functionality of the exercise machine102. For example, the frame154may be configured such that each detent thereof may correlate to a 0.5% increase or decrease in an incline angle of the deck112. Alternatively, the frame154may be configured such that each detent thereof may correlate to a 0.1 mph increase or decrease in a speed of the continuous track122and/or other component of the belt120. In still further examples, percentages, speeds, and/or other increments greater than or less than those noted above may be chosen. Additionally, one or more such rotary controls144,146may include one or more additional buttons, wheels, touch pads, levers, knobs, capacitance sensors, switches, or other input devices configured to receive additional inputs from the user106, and such additional input devices may provide the user106with finer control over the corresponding functionality of the exercise machine102. One or more such rotary controls144,146may also include a respective mount156configured to assist in connecting the rotary control144,146to the post130, crossbar132, and/or other components of the exercise machine102.

As shown inFIGS.33-35, in still further embodiments one or more of the infinity wheel-type rotary controls144,146,526,528described herein may be replaced with a capacitive slider-type control and/or other substantially linear control158. Such controls158may include one or more touch pads, buttons, levers, and/or other components160,162,166configured to receive a touch, tap, push, and/or other input from the user106. Such components160,162,166may be operably connected to respective touch and/or tactile switches of the control158mounted to a printed circuit board170thereof. Such tactile switches may be configured to generate signals indicative of the input received via such components160,162,166, and to direct such signals to the processor and/or other digital hardware148associated with the exercise machine102. The controls158may also include one or more additional touch pads164having a substantially linear configuration. Such touch pads164may also be configured to receive a touch, tap, push, and/or other input from the user106. Additionally, the touch pads164may be operably connected to a respective capacitive trace172of the control158mounted to the printed circuit board170. In such examples, the capacitive trace172may be configured to generate signals indicative of the input received via the touch pad164and to direct such signals to the processor and/or other digital hardware148associated with the exercise machine102.FIG.34illustrates a first substantially linear control158disposed on the right-hand side of the crossbar132, and a second substantially linear control174disposed on the left-hand side of the crossbar132opposite the control158. In any of the examples described herein, one or more of the components160,162,166may be operable to control and/or change operating modes of the exercise machine102. Additionally, in any of the examples described herein, one or more of the infinity wheel-type rotary controls144,146,526,528and/or one or more of the substantially linear controls158,174may include light emitting diodes and/or other lighting indicating a change in operation that is affected by the respective control.

With continued reference to at leastFIG.29, in various exemplary embodiments, the sensors147of the exercise machine102may be configured to sense, detect, measure, and/or otherwise determine a range of performance metrics from both the exercise machine102and the user106, instantaneously and/or over time. For example, the exercise machine102may include one or more sensors147that measure the incline of the deck112, the speed of the belt120, a load applied to the deck112, the belt120, one or more of the motors114,118, and/or other components of the exercise machine102, an amount of energy expended by the user106, a power output of the exercise machine102, user weight, steps, distance, total work, repetitions, an amount of resistance applied to the belt120by one or more of the motors114,118and/or other components of the exercise machine102, as well as any other suitable performance metric associated with, for example, a treadmill. The exercise machine102may also include sensors147to measure user heart-rate, respiration, hydration, calorie burn, or any other physical performance metrics, or to receive such data from sensors provided by the user106. Where appropriate, such performance metrics can be calculated as current/instantaneous values, maximum, minimum, average, or total over time, or using any other statistical analysis. Trends can also be determined, stored, and displayed to the user, the instructor, and/or other users. Such sensors147may communicate with memory and/or processors of the digital hardware148associated with the exercise machine102, nearby, or at a remote location, using wired or wireless connections.

In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine102may also be provided with one or more indicators to provide information to the user106. Such indicators may include lights, projected displays, speakers for audio outputs, or other output devices capable of providing a signal to a user106to provide the user106with information such as timing for performing an exercise, time to start or stop exercise, or other informational indicators. For example, as illustrated inFIG.6, such indicators (e.g., lights or projected displays) could display information regarding the number of sets and repetitions performed by the user106at a location where it can be seen by the user106during the performance of the relevant exercise.

FIGS.36-38illustrate an example exercise machine500(e.g., a “treadmill”500) according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Various components of the example exercise machine500may be substantially similar to and/or the same as corresponding components of the exercise machines102described herein, and in some instances, like item numerals will be used below to describe like parts. For example, as shown inFIGS.36-38an exercise machine500may include a display104, a deck112, a crossbar132, a bracket138connecting the display104to the crossbar132, a controller and/or other digital hardware148, and/or other components, and such components may be similar to and/or the same as the corresponding components of the exercise machine102described above having like item numerals. Additionally, similar to the upper assembly110described above, an upper assembly110of the exercise machine500may include a first post130aconnected to and/or extending from the deck112, and a second post130bconnected to and/or extending from the deck112opposite the first post130a.

The upper assembly110of the exercise machine500may also include an endcap502aconnected to or formed integrally with the post130a, and an endcap502bconnected to or formed integrally with the post130b. In such examples the endcaps502a,502bmay be configured to connect arms504a,504bof the upper assembly110to corresponding posts130a,130b. For example, the endcap502amay connect the arm504ato the post130asuch that the arm504ais supported, at least in part, by the post130a, and the endcap502bmay connect the arm504bto the post130bsuch that the arm504bis supported, at least in part, by the post130b. It is understood that in some examples, the endcap502amay be connected to or formed integrally with the arm504a, and the endcap502bmay be connected to or formed integrally with the arm504b. In some examples, the endcaps502a,502bmay be substantially similar to and/or the same as the brackets134described above with respect toFIG.26. In such examples, the endcaps502a,502bmay include one or more additional components (e.g., caps) substantially similar to and/or the same as the endcaps136described above.

Further, in any of the examples described herein the upper assembly110may include one or more crossbars extending from the arm504ato the arm504b. For example, the crossbar132described above may comprise a crossbar506(e.g., a first crossbar506) extending from the arm504ato the arm504b, and a crossbar514(e.g., a second crossbar514) opposite the crossbar506and extending from the arm504ato the arm504b. In such examples, one or both of the crossbars506,514, one or both of the arms504a,504b, one or both of the endcaps502a,502b, and/or other components of the exercise machine500may comprise handles, armrests, and/or other components configured to at least partly support the user106of the exercise machine500as the user106walks, runs, and/or otherwise participates in an exercise class using the exercise machine500.

The posts130a,130b, endcaps502a,502b, arms504a,504b, crossbars506,514, and/or other components of the exercise machine500may be made from steel, aluminum, cast iron, and/or any other metal, polymer, alloy, or other material, and such materials may be similar to and/or the same as the materials described above with respect to one or more components of the deck112. Further, in some embodiments one or more such components may be connected via one or more bolts, screws, clips, brackets, solder joints, and/or other means. In other embodiments, on the other hand, one or more such components may be integrally formed and/or may otherwise have a one-piece construction. For example, at least the arm504a, arm504b, and crossbar506may have a one-piece construction. In such examples, the crossbar514may be welded, soldered, forged, cast, and/or otherwise connected to the arm504aand the arm504b. In further examples, at least the arm504a, arm504b, crossbar506, and crossbar514may be integrally formed and/or may otherwise have a one-piece construction. In further embodiments, the endcap502amay be forged, cast, and/or otherwise integrally formed with either the post130aor the arm504a. Likewise, in further embodiments the endcap502bmay be forged, cast, and/or otherwise integrally formed with either the post130bor the arm504b.

As shown inFIGS.36-38, the exercise machine500may also include one or more controls associated with the upper assembly110, and one or more such controls may be connected to the arm504a, arm504b, crossbar506, and/or crossbar514. For example, the exercise machine500may include a control516connected to the crossbar514, the crossbar506, the arm504a, or the arm504b. Such a control516may include, for example, one or more magnetic connectors518configured to receive an emergency stop switch, clip, cord, belt, and/or other device worn by the user106as the user106is walking, and/or running on the exercise machine500. For example, the user106may use an emergency stop device (not shown) that may be clipped onto the user's clothing, held by the user106, wrapped about the user's wrist, and/or otherwise worn by the user106while the user106is walking or running on the exercise machine500. Such an emergency stop device may include a cord of a given length, and a magnetic clip or other component disposed at the end of the cord. The magnetic clip at the end of the cord may be disposed on and/or at least partly within the magnetic connector518of the control516during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the exercise machine500may be configured such that the belt120of the deck112may only rotate while the magnetic clip at the end of the cord is disposed on and/or at least partly within the magnetic connector518. Additionally, removal of the magnetic clip from the magnetic connector518may cause the belt120to stop. In such examples, the magnetic connector518, together with such a magnetic clip worn by the user106may comprise an emergency stop device of the exercise machine500. For example, causing the belt120to stop at least partly in response to removal of the magnetic clip from the magnetic connector518may prevent injury to the user106in situations in which the user106is located greater than a desired distance from the crossbar514(e.g., greater than a distance defined by the length of the cord worn by the user106).

In any of the examples described herein, the control516may also include one or more input devices520configured to receive an input from the user106during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, one or more such input devices520may comprise a button, wheel, touch pad, lever, knob, capacitance sensor, switch, or other component configured to receive an input from the user106, and such input devices520may be configured to control and/or may enable the user106to control a corresponding function of the exercise machine500.

As show inFIGS.36-38, in some examples the exercise machine500may also include one or more trays522configured to hold, for example, a water bottle, an MP3 player, a mobile device, a magazine, a towel, and/or other the items that the user106may utilize while exercising on the exercise machine500. In some examples, the tray522may be fixedly connected to at least one of the crossbar506, the arm504a, the arm504b, or the crossbar514. In other examples, on the other hand, the tray522may be removably attached to one or more such components of the exercise machine500. For example, the tray522may be at least partially disposed within a gap524separating the crossbar506from the crossbar514. In such examples, at least one of the crossbar506, the arm504a, the arm504b, or the crossbar514may include a ridge, ledge, shelf, lip, flange, extension, clip, and/or other structure configured to at least partly support the tray522when the tray522is disposed at least partly within the gap524.

The exercise machine500may also include one or more rotary controls526,528configured to control respective functions of the exercise machine500and/or one or more of the motors114,118thereof, during use. Such rotary controls526,528may be substantially similar to and/or the same as one or more of the rotary controls144,146described above with respect toFIGS.29,31, and32, and one or more of the rotary controls526,528may be configured to control similar and/or the same functions of the exercise machine500and/or one or more of the motors114,118described above with respect to the rotary controls144,146. As shown in at least FIG.36, the arm504amay include a rotary control526attached thereto, and the arm504bmay include a rotary control528attached thereto. In such examples, the rotary control526may be separate from the rotary control528. Further, the rotary control526may be configured to control a first function of the exercise machine500, and the rotary control528may be configured to control a second function of the exercise machine500different from the first function associated with rotary control526. In some examples, the first function of the exercise machine500may comprise a first function and/or operation of one of the motors114,118. Similarly, the second function of the exercise machine500may comprise a second function and/or operation of the other of the motors114,118. In additional examples, one or both of the rotary controls528may be configured to control respective functions of the exercise machine500associated with the display104, the digital hardware148, and/or other components of the exercise machine different from the motors114,118. Additionally, in further examples one or both of the rotary controls526,528may be disposed on the crossbar514, the crossbar506, and/or other portions of the exercise machine500. Further, one or both of the rotary controls526,528may be disposed on the arm504a, the arm504b, the post130a, or the post130b.

FIGS.39and40illustrate an example rotary control528in further detail. It is understood that in some examples the rotary control528may be substantially similar to and/or the same as the rotary control526. Alternatively, in some examples, the rotary control528may be different from and/or may include one or more components different from respective components of the rotary control526. For ease of description, the rotary control528will be described for the remainder of the present disclosure unless otherwise specified, and any description of the rotary control528shall also apply to the rotary control526unless otherwise noted.

As shown inFIGS.39and40, the rotary control528may include an outer portion530, and the outer portion530may include a base532and a top534. In such examples, the outer portion530may be substantially similar to and/or the same as the outer portion152described above with respect toFIG.31. The top534of the outer portion530may comprise a substantially cylindrical, substantially semi-circular, or substantially dome-shaped housing of the rotary control528. Further, the base532may comprise a substantially cylindrical stem, housing, and/or other such structure extending from the top534. The outer portion530may comprise a substantially one-piece component of the rotary control528and, in such examples, the base532may be formed integrally with the top534. Alternatively, the base532may be molded, soldered, heat-sealed, clipped, press fit, and/or otherwise connected to the top534. In some examples, the rotary control528may include a central axis (e.g., a central longitudinal axis)536extending substantially centrally through the outer portion530. In such examples, at least a portion of the rotary control528may be rotatable about the central axis536. For example, the outer portion (e.g., the top534and/or the base532) may be rotatable about the central axis536during use. It is understood that, in some examples, at least the outer portion530may be rotatable about the central axis536relative to the arm504bto which the rotary control528is connected. Additionally, the outer portion530may include one or more ridges, dimples, indentations, grooves, protuberances, patterns, and/or other grips538. For example, one or more such grips538may be disposed on and/or formed by the top534to assist the user106in rotating the outer portion530about the central axis536.FIG.39illustrates a first example configuration of such grips538, whileFIG.40illustrates a second example configuration of such grips538. It is understood that the grips538are not limited to the configurations illustrated in eitherFIG.39orFIG.40, and in further examples, the grips538may have any other shape, size, orientation, or other configuration useful in enhancing the ability of the user106to rotate the outer portion530during use of the exercise machine500.

In some examples, the rotary control528may also include one or more components configured to provide tactile, audible, visual, and/or other feedback to the user106as the user rotates at least a portion of the rotary control528relative to the arm504bto which the rotary control528is connected. In any example embodiment of the present disclosure, two or more such components of the rotary control528may provide feedback to the user106substantially simultaneously during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the feedback substantially simultaneously received from two or more such components of the rotary control528may be indicative of the same operating characteristic of the rotary control528(e.g., a degree to which the outer portion530has been rotated by the user106).

For example, the rotary control528may include a first component configured to provide visible feedback to the user106as the user106rotates the outer portion530and/or other portions of the rotary control528about the central axis536. In such examples, such a first component may comprise an indicator540disposed on, connected to, and/or otherwise associated with the top534. In other embodiments, on the other hand, the indicator540may be located radially inward of the top534. The indicator number540may comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and/or other light sources disposed, for example, about or proximate a perimeter of the top534. In such examples, the indicator540may be configured such that rotation of the rotary control528results in commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator540. For example, the indicator540may be configured such that rotation of the top534about the central axis536may cause commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator540, and the extent to which the indicator540is illuminated may indicate the degree to which the outer portion530has been rotated by the user106. In such examples, the rotary control528may have a zero or start position. In such an embodiment, rotation of the outer portion530about the central axis536from the start position clockwise or counterclockwise, for example, approximately 90 radial degrees may cause illumination of approximately one quarter of the indicator540. Similarly, rotation of the outer portion530about the central axis536from the start position clockwise or counterclockwise, for example, approximately 180 radial degrees may cause illumination of approximately one half of the indicator540. In further examples, rotation of the outer portion530about the central axis536any desired number of radial degrees may cause illumination of a corresponding portion of the indicator540. Such illumination may correlate to an increase or decrease in an incline angle of the deck112. Alternatively, such illumination may correlate to an increase or decrease in a speed of the continuous track122and/or other component of the belt120. In any such examples, such illumination (e.g., the amount of visual feedback) may indicate to the user106the extent to which the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530have been rotated. In some examples, such illumination may include pulsing, blinking, changes in color, substantially constant illumination, and/or other illumination modalities.

Further, in some examples the rotary control528may include one or more additional components configured to provide tactile feedback to the user106as the user106rotates the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530about the central axis536. As shown in at leastFIG.40, such an additional component may comprise a detent555configured to at least partly restrict rotation of the outer portion530about the central axis536. For example, one or more detents555may provide partial resistance to the top534, base532, and/or other components of the outer portion530as the outer portion530is rotated about the central axis536. In such examples, the base532and/or other components of the outer portion530may be configured to contact one or more such detents555as the outer portion530is rotated about the central axis536. For example, the rotary control528may include a carrier552that includes one or more such detents555. In such examples, the carrier552may include a substantially rigid frame554, and the one or more detents555described above may be disposed on and/or formed by the frame554. In such examples, the base532and/or the top534may be rotatably connected to the frame554.

As noted above, one or more of the detents555may be positioned, sized, and/or otherwise configured to coincide with a desired incremental change in a corresponding function of the exercise machine500. For example, the frame554may be configured such that each detent555thereof may correlate to a 0.5% increase or decrease in an incline angle of the deck112. Alternatively, the frame554may be configured such that each detent555thereof may correlate to a 0.1 mph increase or decrease in a speed of the continuous track122and/or other component of the belt120. In still further examples, percentages, speeds, and/or other increments greater than or less than those noted above may be chosen.

Further, in any of the examples described herein, control software and/or the digital hardware148described above may be configured such that rotation of the outer portion530about the central axis536may cause any desired outcome associated with the exercise machine500. For example, while in some embodiments rotation of the outer portion530in a forward direction (e.g., counterclockwise) may cause the motor114to increase an incline of (e.g., raise) the deck112relative to a support surface on which the exercise machine500is disposed, in further examples, control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530in a rearward (e.g., clockwise) direction may cause the motor114to increase the incline of the deck112relative to the support surface. Further, while in some embodiments rotation of the outer portion530in a forward direction (e.g., counterclockwise) may cause the motor118to increase a speed of rotation of the belt120, in further examples, control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530in a rearward (e.g., clockwise) direction may cause the motor118to increase the speed of rotation of the belt120.

Moreover, in example embodiments control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530may control one or more functions of the display104or other components of the machine500different from the motors114,118. For example, control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530in either a forward or rearward direction may cause the display104to display a button, icon, control, text, or other content. In further examples, rotation of the outer portion530in either a forward or rearward direction to a zero position of the rotary control528may cause the display104, control software, and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500to pause an exercise class that is currently playing or being displayed on the display104. In additional examples, rotation of the outer portion530may cause a beep, chirp, and/or other audible tone to be emitted from one or more speakers of the exercise machine500. In some examples, each time the outer portion530interfaces with a detent555of the frame554, the control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may cause the one or more speakers to emit an audible tone. Such an audible tone may comprise further indicia (e.g., audible indicia) indicative of the rotation of the rotary control528.

In still further examples, the speed at which the rotary control528is rotated by the user106may also dictate the extent, degree, speed, or magnitude of the change made to the operation/function of the exercise machine500. For example, control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530in either a forward or rearward direction at a relatively slow speed may cause a correspondingly minimal or incremental change in the rotational speed of the belt120(e.g., a 0.1 mph increase or decrease in a speed of the continuous track122and/or other component of the belt120). In such examples, control software and/or digital hardware148of the exercise machine500may also be programmed and/or otherwise configured such that rotation of the outer portion530in either a forward or rearward direction at a relatively fast speed may cause a correspondingly significant, rapid, and/or aggressive change in the rotational speed of the belt120(e.g., a 1.0 mph increase or decrease in the speed of the continuous track122and/or other component of the belt120).

As shown inFIGS.39and40, the rotary control528may also include an inner portion542. In some examples, the inner portion542may be fixedly connected to the outer portion530, and in such examples, the inner portion542may be rotatable with the outer portion530about the central axis536of the rotary control528. In other examples, the inner portion542may be separate from the outer portion530such that at least, for example, the top534may be rotatable relative to the inner portion542about the central axis536. In such examples, the inner portion542may be fixed relative to the top534as the top534is rotated about the central axis536. The inner portion542may include a substantially disc-shaped plate544disposed substantially centrally within the top534. In such examples, the central axis536may extend substantially centrally through the plate544. Additionally, the plate544may be disposed radially inward of, for example, the indicator540and/or the top534. In some examples the indicator540may be disposed on and/or otherwise connected to the plate544, and in such examples, the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530may be rotatable relative to the plate544and the indicator540.

The rotary control528may further include one or more input devices546. For example, the rotary control528may include an input device546disposed substantially centrally relative to the plate544. In some examples, the input device546may be disposed on and/or otherwise connected to the plate544. In such examples, the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530may be rotatable relative to the input device546. The input device546may comprise one or more buttons, wheels, touch pads, levers, knobs, capacitance sensors, switches, or other components configured to receive inputs from the user106, and in such examples, the inputs received via the input device546may be different and/or separate from rotational input received from the user106via the top534. In such examples, the input device546may be configured to control one or more functions of the exercise machine500different and/or separate from functions of the exercise machine500controlled via rotation of the top534. For example, in embodiments in which rotation of the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530of the rotary control528may enable the user106to control a speed of rotation of the belt120, a position of the deck112, and/or other functions of the exercise machine500, inputs received via the input device546may control one or more additional functions of the exercise machine500different from the speed of rotation of the belt120, the position of the deck112, etc. For example, in such embodiments an input received via the input device546may cause the belt120to begin rotating, may cause the belt120to stop rotating, may enable selection of one or more exercise classes, may enable selection of one or more modes of operation of the exercise machine500, and/or may enable control of various other functions of the exercise machine500.

As illustrated in the exploded view ofFIG.40, the inner portion542may further include a base548extending from the plate544. For example, the plate544may comprise a substantially planar, substantially disc-shaped component of the inner portion542, and the base548may comprise a substantially cylindrical component of the inner portion542extending substantially perpendicularly from the plate544. In such examples, the outer portion530may comprise a substantially cylindrical component of the rotary control528, and the outer portion530may include a substantially central opening550extending at least partly therethrough. In such examples, the central axis536may pass substantially centrally through the opening550, and at least part of the base548may be disposed within the opening550. Accordingly, in such examples the top534and/or other components of the outer portion530may be rotatable about and/or relative to the base548of the inner portion542.

As noted above, the rotary control528may include a carrier552that includes one or more detents555. In such examples, the carrier552may comprise a substantially rigid frame554, and the one or more detents555described above may be disposed on and/or formed by an annular outer or inner surface of the frame554. In such examples, the outer portion530of the rotary control528may be rotatably connected to the carrier552such that at least part of the base532and/or at least part of the top534may interface with one or more such detents555as the outer portion530rotates relative to the carrier552. The carrier552may also include a printed circuit board (PCB)556connected thereto. In such examples, the PCB556may include one or more sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors, proximity sensors, optical sensors, etc.), switches, controllers, microprocessors, and/or other components configured to determine a position (e.g., a radial angle or position) of the outer portion530relative to the carrier552, and to provide one or more signals including information indicting such a position to a controller or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine500. Such components of the PCB556may also be operably connected to the input device546of the rotary control528. In such examples, such components of the PCB556may also be configured to receive signals from the input device546indicative of one or more inputs received via the input device546, and may be configured to provide one or more corresponding signals to the controller or other digital hardware148.

For example, one or more components of the PCB556may be configured to sense, detect, and/or otherwise determine rotation of the outer portion530of the rotary control528, and such rotation of the outer portion530relative to the carrier552may cause one or more such components of the PCB556to transmit a corresponding signal to the controller or other digital hardware148. Upon receipt of such a signal (e.g., a first signal), the controller or other digital hardware148may cause a corresponding change in the speed of rotation of the belt120, change in the position (e.g., incline or decline) of the deck12, and/or other change in functions of the exercise machine500. Any such functions may comprise, for example, functions of the exercise machine500controlled by, performed by, and/or otherwise associated with at least one of the motors114,118. Similarly, receipt of one or more signals from the input device546may cause one or more components of the PCB556to transmit a corresponding signal to the controller or other digital hardware148. Upon receipt of such a signal (e.g., a second signal), the controller or other digital hardware148may cause the belt120to begin rotating, may cause the belt120to stop rotating, may cause selection of one or more exercise classes, may enable one or more modes of operation of the exercise machine500, and/or may enable control of various other functions of the exercise machine500. Similarly, any such functions may comprise, for example, functions of the exercise machine500controlled by, performed by, and/or otherwise associated with at least one of the motors114,118. As shown inFIG.40, in some examples at least part of the rotary control528may be connected to a stationary mount558. For example, the mount558may comprise a substantially rigid frame, housing, and/or other structure connected to the arm504band/or other component of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the mount558may be welded, soldered, bolted, screwed, clipped, and/or otherwise connected to the arm504bso as to provide a substantially rigid stationary support for the rotary control528during use of the exercise machine500. In some examples, the arm504bmay include one or more openings562, and in such examples at least part of the mount558may engage, may be disposed within, and/or may pass through the opening562as the mount558is connected to the arm504b. Alternatively, in additional embodiments the opening562may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the mount558may be fixedly connected to an outer surface of the arm504b. The mount558may include one or more openings560extending at least partly therethrough. In some examples, the rotary control528may be connected to the mount558such that the central axis536of the rotary control528may pass substantially centrally through the opening560of the mount558.

In any of the examples described herein, one or more components of the rotary control528may be connected to the mount558(e.g., at least partly within the opening560of the mount558) so as to remain fixed relative to the mount558during rotation of the top534, base532, and/or other components of the outer portion530. For example, the carrier552may be connected to the mount558such that the carrier552may remain fixed relative to the outer portion530and the mount558as the outer portion530is rotated relative to the mount558. Likewise, the inner portion542may be connected to the carrier552and/or the mount558such that the inner portion542may remain fixed relative to the outer portion530, the carrier552, and the mount558as the outer portion530is rotated relative to the mount558. Alternatively, in still further examples the mount558may be omitted. In such examples, the inner portion542and/or the carrier552may be connected to the arm504bsuch that the inner portion542and the carrier552may remain fixed relative to the outer portion530as the outer portion530is rotated relative to the arm504b.

FIG.42illustrates another example rotary control600of the present disclosure. It is understood that in some examples the rotary control600may be substantially similar to and/or the same as the rotary control528described above. Alternatively, in some examples, the rotary control600may be different from and/or may include one or more components different from respective components of the rotary control528. It is understood that the rotary control600may be used with and/or included on the exercise machine500with or in place of the rotary control528, and any descriptions herein of the rotary control528shall also apply to the rotary control600unless otherwise noted. Moreover, any of the descriptions herein of the rotary control600shall also apply to the rotary control528unless otherwise noted. For example, one or more components of the rotary control528may be substantially similar to and/or the same as one or more corresponding components of the rotary control528. Additionally, any of the descriptions herein of the rotary control600shall also apply to one or both of the rotary control144,146unless otherwise noted.

For example, as shown inFIG.42the rotary control600may include an outer portion602, and the outer portion602may include a top604having one or more grips606. In such examples, the outer portion602, top604, and grips606of the rotary control600may be substantially similar to and/or the same as the corresponding outer portion530, top534, and grips538of the rotary control528. For example, the top604of the outer portion602may comprise a substantially cylindrical, substantially semi-circular, or substantially dome-shaped housing of the rotary control600. In some examples, the rotary control600may include a central axis (e.g., a central longitudinal axis)605extending substantially centrally through the outer portion602. In such examples, at least a portion of the rotary control600may be rotatable about the central axis605. For example, at least the top604and/or other components of the outer portion602may be rotatable about the central axis605during use. It is understood that, in some examples, at least the outer portion602may be rotatable about the central axis605relative to the arm504bto which the rotary control600is connected, and in such examples, the central axis605may extend substantially perpendicular to an outer surface of the arm504b(e.g., substantially perpendicular to a central longitudinal axis of the arm504b, crossbar514, and/or other component of the exercise machine500). As shown inFIGS.36-38, the rotary control528(e.g., the central axis536of the rotary control528) may have a similar orientation relative to the arm504band/or other components of the exercise machine500.

In some examples, the rotary control600may also include one or more components configured to provide tactile, audible, visual, and/or other feedback to the user106as the user rotates at least a portion of the rotary control600relative to the arm504bto which the rotary control600is connected. In any example embodiment of the present disclosure, two or more such components of the rotary control600may provide feedback to the user106substantially simultaneously during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the feedback substantially simultaneously received from two or more such components of the rotary control600may be indicative of the same operating characteristic of the rotary control600(e.g., a degree to which the outer portion602has been rotated by the user106, a speed at which the outer portion602has been rotated, a direction of rotation, etc.).

For example, the rotary control600may include a first component configured to provide visible feedback to the user106as the user106rotates the outer portion602and/or other portions of the rotary control600about the central axis605. In such examples, such a first component may comprise an indicator608disposed on, connected to, and/or otherwise associated with the top604. In other embodiments, on the other hand, the indicator602may be located radially inward of the top534. In some examples, the indicator number608may be substantially similar to and/or the same as the indicator540and may comprise one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs) and/or other light sources disposed, for example, about or proximate a perimeter of the top604. In other examples, the indicator608may comprise a lens, a window, and/or any other optical component configured to permit the passage of visible light or other radiation from one or more LEDs disposed proximal to the indicator608(e.g., between the arm504band the indicator608) to a location distal to the indicator608(e.g., a location associated with the deck112, a location external to the outer portion602, and/or any other location optically downstream of the indicator608). For example, the rotary control600may include a printed circuit board (PCB)636substantially similar to and/or the same as the PCB556described above with respect to the rotary control528. In such examples, the PCB636may include one or more LEDs638disposed on, connected to, and/or embedded at least partly within a top surface640thereof disposed opposite and facing the indicator608. The PCB636may also include one or more sensors (e.g., Hall effect sensors, proximity sensors, optical sensors, etc.), switches, controllers, microprocessors, and/or other components configured to determine a position (e.g., a radial angle or position) of the outer portion602relative to the PCB636and/or other stationary components of the rotary control600, and to provide one or more signals including information indicting such a position to a controller or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine500. Such components of the PCB556may also be operably connected to the LEDs638and may be configured to control operation of the LEDs based at least partly on the position of the outer portion602, the speed of rotation of the outer portion602, and/or other information or parameters.

In any such examples, the indicator608may be configured such that rotation of the rotary control600results in commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator608. For example, the indicator608may be configured such that rotation of the top604about the central axis605may cause commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator608in any manner substantially similar to and/or the same as that described above with respect to the indicator540of the rotary control528. In example embodiments, the extent to which the indicator608is illuminated may indicate the degree to which and/or the speed at which the outer portion602has been rotated by the user106. In some examples, such illumination of the indicator608may include pulsing, blinking, changes in color, substantially constant illumination, and/or other illumination modalities.

Further, in some examples the rotary control600may include one or more additional components configured to provide tactile feedback to the user106as the user106rotates the top604and/or other components of the outer portion602about the central axis605. As shown inFIG.42, such an additional component may comprise an encoder642configured to at least partly restrict rotation of the outer portion602about the central axis605. For example, the encoder642may be disposed on, connected to, and/or embedded at least partly within the top surface640, and the encoder642may include one or more detents substantially similar to and/or the same as the detents555described above with respect to the frame554and/or carrier552. For example, the encoder642may include a base644fixedly connected to the PCB636, and a stem646extending from the base644. In such examples, the stem646may be rotatable relative to the base644, and the base644or the stem646may include one or more detents configured to provide partial resistance to the stem646as the stem646is rotated relative to the base644and/or the top surface640. In such examples, the outer portion602may be connected to the stem646such that the one or more detents of the stem646and/or the base644may provide partial resistance to the outer portion602as the user106rotates the outer portion602about the central axis605. It is understood that, in such examples, the central axis605may pass substantially centrally through, for example, the stem646and/or the base644. In any of the examples described herein, and in substantially the same manner as the detents555described above, the one or more detents of the encoder642may be positioned, sized, and/or otherwise configured to coincide with a desired incremental change in a corresponding function of the exercise machine500. For example, in any of the examples described herein, components of the PCB636, control software of the exercise machine500, and/or the digital hardware148described above may be configured such that rotation of the outer portion602about the central axis605may cause any desired outcome associated with the exercise machine500generally, the display104, the motors114,118, one or more speakers of the exercise machine500, and/or other such components. Any of the functions (e.g., changing a position of the deck112, changing a rotational speed of the belt120, pausing the display of one or more exercise classes on the display104, causing an audible tone to be emitted, etc.) described above with respect to the rotary control528may also be performed by and/or otherwise controlled with the rotary control600in a manner substantially similar to and/or the same as that described above with respect to the rotary control528.

As shown inFIG.42, the rotary control600may also include an inner portion610. In some examples, the inner portion610may be fixedly connected to the outer portion602, and in such examples, the inner portion610may be rotatable with the outer portion602about the central axis605of the rotary control600. In other examples, the inner portion610may be separate from the outer portion602such that at least, for example, the top604may be rotatable relative to the inner portion610about the central axis605. In such examples, the inner portion610may be fixed relative to the top604as the top604is rotated about the central axis605. The inner portion610may include a substantially disc-shaped plate612disposed substantially centrally within the top604. In such examples, the central axis605may extend substantially centrally through the plate612. Additionally, the plate612may be disposed radially inward of, for example, the indicator608and/or the top604. In some examples the indicator608may be disposed on and/or otherwise connected to the plate612, and in such examples, the top604and/or other components of the outer portion602may be rotatable relative to the plate612and the indicator608.

The rotary control600may further include one or more input devices614substantially similar to and/or the same as the input device546described above with respect to the rotary control528. For example, the rotary control600may include an input device614disposed substantially centrally relative to the plate612. In some examples, the input device614may be disposed on and/or otherwise connected to the plate612. In such examples, the top604and/or other components of the outer portion602may be rotatable relative to the input device614. Similar to the input device546, the input device614may comprise one or more buttons, wheels, touch pads, levers, knobs, capacitance sensors, switches, or other components configured to receive inputs from the user106, and in such examples, the inputs received via the input device614may be different and/or separate from rotational input received from the user106via the top604. In such examples, the input device614may be configured to control one or more functions of the exercise machine500different and/or separate from functions of the exercise machine500controlled via rotation of the top604. For example, in embodiments in which rotation of the top604and/or other components of the outer portion602of the rotary control600may enable the user106to control a speed of rotation of the belt120, a position of the deck112, and/or other functions of the exercise machine500, inputs received via the input device614may control one or more additional functions of the exercise machine500different from the speed of rotation of the belt120, the position of the deck112, etc. For example, an input received via the input device614may cause the belt120to begin rotating, may cause the belt120to stop rotating, may enable selection of one or more exercise classes, may enable selection of one or more modes of operation of the exercise machine500, and/or may enable control of various other functions of the exercise machine500.

As illustrated inFIG.42, the rotary control600may also include a spacer616having a distal portion618and a proximal portion620extending from the distal portion618. In such examples, the distal portion618may be connected to, mate with, contact, and/or otherwise engage the input device614. In some examples, the distal portion618may include one or more electrical contacts, sensors, and/or other control components configured to transmit signals from the input device614to, for example, one or more microprocessors, filters, amplifiers, or other control components of the PCB636. Additionally or alternatively, the distal portion618may engage the input device614and the proximal portion620may extend at least partly into or through an opening648of the stem646. In such examples, the proximal portion620may be connected to, mate with, contact, and/or otherwise engage one or more switches, sensors, electrical contacts, and/or other components of the PCB636configured to receive signals or other input from the input device614. In some examples, such components of the PCB636may comprise a physical switch associated with the encoder642and/or with the PCB636. In such examples, when the user106presses the input device614, the input device614may move proximally toward the PCB636substantially along the central axis605. Such movement may cause commensurate movement of the spacer616substantially along the central axis605toward the switch, and such movement may, in some examples, actuate the switch due to the engagement between the proximal portion620and the switch.

As noted above, the PCB636may include one or more LEDs638configured to emit visible light or other radiation. The rotary control600may also include one or more diffusion lenses, collimating lenses, diffraction lenses, prisms, and/or other optical components622disposed optically downstream of such LEDs638. For example, the rotary control600may include an annular optical component622disposed optically between one or more of the LEDs638and the indicator608. Such optical components622may assist in diffusing, focusing, and/or otherwise conditioning the radiation emitted by the LEDs638, and may direct such radiation from the LEDs638to the indicator608.

In some examples, the rotary control600may further include a substantially rigid frame624, and one or more of the components described above with respect to the rotary control600may be connected to the frame624. Additionally, the frame624may be directly coupled, mounted to, and/or otherwise connected to the arm504b, crossbar514, and/or other component of the exercise machine500. For example, the frame624may include a substantially disc-shaped base626having one or more thru holes or other components configured to facilitate connecting the frame624to the arm504b. In such examples, the PCB636may be connected to the base626and may remain stationary relative to the base626as, for example, the stem646or other components of the encoder642are caused to rotate about the central axis605. In such examples, the frame624may include an opening632extending substantially centrally therethrough, and the stem646, the base644, and/or other portions of the encoder646or the PCB636may be connected to the outer portion602and/or components thereof via the opening632. In such examples, at least part of the spacer616may be disposed within the opening632to facilitate a connection between the input device614, and one or more switches or other components of the encoder642and/or of the PCB636.

The frame624may also include one or more additional components configured to support corresponding components of the rotary control600and/or to at least partly guide the rotation of one or more such components relative to the frame624. For example, the frame624may include one or more substantially annular rings628,630configured to at least partly support the outer portion602. In some examples, one or both of the rings628,630may include substantially cylindrical bearing surfaces and/or camming surfaces. Such surfaces may comprise, for example, outer surfaces or inner surfaces of the rings628,630configured to contact, connect with and/or otherwise engage one or more corresponding surfaces (e.g., follower surfaces) of the outer portion602. In such examples, the outer portion602may be rotatably connected to the frame624and/or to the encoder642, and one or more substantially cylindrical bearing surfaces and/or camming surfaces of the rings628,630may at least partly guide rotation of the outer portion602about the central axis605.

Moreover, the frame624may include one or more shelves634extending substantially perpendicular to one or both of the rings628,630. Such a shelf634may comprise a substantially annular, substantially planar surface of the frame624and, in some examples, the shelf634may extend opposite and/or substantially parallel to a corresponding surface of the base626. In some examples, at least part of a shelf634of the frame624may extend radially from the ring628to the ring630. Additionally, in some embodiments the optical component622may be supported by, connected to, and/or at least partly disposed on the shelf634. In such examples, the shelf634may include one or more openings permitting radiation emitted by one or more LEDs638of the PCB636to pass substantially unimpeded from the one or more LEDs638to the optical component622. In some examples, the shelf634may include a plurality of such openings, and each opening of the shelf634may be substantially aligned with a corresponding LED638of the PCB636to facilitate permitting radiation emitted by the corresponding LED638to pass to and/or impinge upon the optical component622.

As shown inFIG.41, the control516may include a substantially rigid frame563connected to the crossbar514of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the frame563may include a top surface564and a front service566, and the frame563may contain, carry, and/or otherwise at least partly support one or more components of the control516. For example, the magnetic connector518described above may be connected to the frame563, and such a magnetic connector518may include a recess568configured to receive at least part of an emergency stop device carried by, attached to, and/or worn by the user106. For example, as noted above, such an emergency stop device may include a cord of a given length, and a magnetic clip or other component disposed at the end of the cord. The magnetic clip at the end of the cord may be disposed on and/or at least partly within the recess568during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the recess568may include one or more magnets having an opposite polarity from the magnetic clip disposed at the end of the cord such that the clip may be at least temporarily retained at least partly within the recess568by magnetic forces. The exercise machine500may be configured such that the belt120of the deck112may only rotate while the magnetic clip at the end of the cord is disposed on, and/or at least partly within the recess568. Additionally, removal of the magnetic clip from the recess568may cause the belt120to stop. In such examples, the magnetic connector518may include one or more sensors or other components configured to determine the presence of the magnetic clip at least partly within the recess568and/or the removal of the magnetic clip from the recess568. Such sensors of the magnetic connector518may be operably connected to the controller and/or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine500in order to facilitate such operations.

In some examples, the control516may also include one or more additional sensors570disposed on either the front surface566or the top surface564. In such examples, such additional sensors570may include, among other things, one or more proximity sensors, biosensors, and/or other sensors configured to determine the presence of, location of, and/or performance parameters of the user106. In some examples, one or more such sensors570may be similar to and/or substantially the same as one or more of the sensors147discussed above with respect to at leastFIG.29. For example, such sensors570may be configured to measure, sense, detect, and/or otherwise determine user heart-rate, respiration, hydration, calorie burn, or any other physical performance metrics, or to receive such data from sensors provided by the user106. Such sensors570may be operably connected to the controller, memory, and/or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine500.

Further, in any of the examples described herein the control516may include one or more input devices572in addition to the input device520discussed above. Similar to the input device520, the input device572may be configured to receive an input from the user106during use of the exercise machine500. In such examples, one or more such input devices572may comprise a button, wheel, touch pad, lever, knob, capacitance sensor, switch, or other component configured to receive an input from the user106, and similar to the input device520, the input device572may be configured to control and/or may enable the user106to control a corresponding function of the exercise machine500. In such examples, the input device520may be configured to provide control of a first function of the exercise machine500, and the input device572may be configured to provide control of a second function of the exercise machine500different from the first function associated with the input device520.

Display and User Interface

The one or more displays104may be driven by a user input device such as a touchscreen, mouse, voice control, or other suitable input device. In some examples, the display104or at least a portion thereof, may comprise a touchscreen configured to receive touch input from the user104. The one or more displays104may be any size, but optimally are large enough and oriented to allow the display of a range of information including one or more video streams, a range of performance metrics corresponding to the user106, a range of additional performance metrics associated with one or more additional users exercising on exercise machines remote from the exercise machine102, and a range of different controls. In various exemplary embodiments, such as the embodiment illustrated inFIG.4, the display104may include some or all of its area that can reflect the image of the user106to provide user feedback regarding their form and performance of various activities.

In various exemplary embodiments the user can use the display104or one or more user interfaces200displayed on the display104to selectively present a range of different information including live and/or archived video, performance data, and other user and system information. As will be described below with respect to at leastFIGS.12-24, such user interfaces200can provide a wide range of control and informational windows that can be accessed and removed individually and/or as a group by a click, touch, voice command, or gesture. In various exemplary embodiments, such windows may provide information about the user's own performance and/or the performance of other participants in the same class both past and present.

Example user interfaces200presented via the display104may be used to access member information, login and logout of the system100, access live content such as live exercise classes and archived classes or other content. User information may be displayed in a variety of formats and may include historical and current performance and account information, social networking links and information, achievements, etc. The user interfaces described herein200can also be used to access the system100to update profile or member information, manage account settings such as information sharing, and control device settings.

An example user interface200may also be presented on the one or more displays104to allow users to manage their experience, including selecting information to be displayed and arranging how such information is displayed on the display104. Such a user interface200may present multiple types of information overlaid such that different types of information can be selected or deselected easily by the user106. For example, performance metrics and/or other information may be displayed over video content using translucent or partially transparent elements so the video behind the information elements can be seen together with (i.e., simultaneously with) the performance metrics and/or other information itself. Further, example user interfaces200may present a variety of screens to the user106which the user106can move among quickly using the provided user input device, including by touching if a touchscreen is used.

In any of the examples described herein, the processor and/or other components of the digital hardware148may control the display104and/or otherwise cause the display104to display the various user interfaces200of the present disclosure. For example, the processor or other components of the digital hardware148may cause the display104to display a user interface200comprising a home screen that provides basic information about the system100and/or the exercise machine102, as well as available options. Such a home screen may provide direct links to information such as scheduled classes, archived classes, a leaderboard, instructors, and/or profile and account information. The home screen may also provide direct links to content such as a link to join a particular class. The user can navigate among the different portions of the home screen by selecting such links using the applicable input device such as by touching the touchscreen at the indicated location, or by swiping to bring on a new screen. An example user interface200providing such a home screen may also provide other information relevant to the user such as social network information, and navigation buttons that allow the user to move quickly among the different screens in the user interface.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user106can use one or more of the user interfaces200to browse and select among both live and archived content. For example, as shown inFIGS.12-14, example user interfaces200may include one or more toolbars202enabling the user106to access listings and/or other information regarding available exercise classes. Such example toolbars200may include respective tabs or other controls enabling the user106to browse such content. For example, the toolbar200may include a first tab204enabling the user to access featured live and archived exercise classes, a second tab206enabling the user to access a library of archived exercise classes, a third tab208enabling the user to access a schedule of live classes, a fourth tab210enabling the user to access a variety of quick start or “just run” content, and/or other additional or different tabs.

As shown inFIGS.12and13, if the user106selects the first tab204associated with featured classes, the user interface200may present a schedule of upcoming live or archived classes that have achieved a high ranking or other preferential (e.g., “featured”) status. The user interface200may include one or more drop-down menus or other display features, and such features may also allow users to find such featured classes by type, instructor, or by any other appropriate category. The user interfaces200associated with the featured classes tab204may allow the user106to select future classes (as illustrated by thumbnails or icons212,214) or to start a class that is underway or about to begin (as illustrated by thumbnails or icons216,218,220). Further, the user interfaces200associated with the featured classes tab204may allow the user106to select an archived or on-demand class that has already taken place (as illustrated by thumbnails or icons221). The class schedule and information regarding “featured” content or any other content may be presented via such user interfaces200in any suitable format, including a calendar, list, or any other appropriate layout. For example, selecting the third tab208associated with the live schedule of exercise classes may yield a user interface200presenting an upcoming schedule of live classes set forth on a calendar.

As illustrated by the example user interface200shown inFIG.14, if the user106selects the second tab206associated with the class library, the system100may provide a user interface200showing information related to available archived classes, and such information may be sorted in a number of different ways. As illustrated by the menu icon222, the user interface200may filter the classes included in the class library such that only icons or thumbnails225corresponding to classes associated with running, boot camp, and off-tread are provided to the user106. Additionally, such user interfaces200may include one or more drop down menus224enabling the user106to further filter the classes included in the class library. For example, such drop down menus224may enable the user106to select classes based on instructor, length, class type, music genre, body focus, exercise type, etc. Additionally, as shown inFIG.14, the icons or thumbnails225may be displayed in any suitable format, and may include information including the instructor of the class, the class length, the date on which the class was originally held, the type of class, and/or other related information. Further, as shown inFIG.15, selecting one of the thumbnails225may surface additional information to the user106via an additional window226of the user interface200. Such additional information may include, for example, a rating of the class, how many times the user has taken that class in the past, the portions of the body that are focused on during the class, additional equipment (e.g., weights) that may be needed during the class, as well as other performance or class-related information.

FIGS.16-18illustrate example user interfaces200that may be provided to the user106during a selected exercise class. When an exercise class is being played on the one or more displays104through the user interface200, in various exemplary embodiments the primary video feed may be shown as the background video full-screen or in a sub-window on the display104. Information elements may be provided on different parts of the display screen to indicate any performance metrics, including total time, elapsed time, time left, distance, speed, mile pace of the user106, incline, elevation, resistance, power, total work, energy expended (e.g., output), cadence, heart rate, respiration, hydration, calorie burn, and/or any custom performance scores that may be developed. The displayed information may also include the trend or relationship between different performance metrics. For example, the display can indicate a particular metric in a color that indicates current performance compared to average performance for a class or over time, such as red to indicate that current performance is below average or green to indicate above average performance. Trends or relative performance can also be shown using color and graphics, such as a red down arrow to show that current performance is below average.

In various exemplary embodiments, the display104may also display information that supports or supplements the information provided by the instructor. Examples include one or more segmented timelines228that are illustrated together with at least part of the selected exercise class in the user interface200. As shown inFIGS.16-18, an example segmented timeline228may include one or more segments230a,230b,230c. . .230n(collectively, “segments230”) corresponding to respective portions or parts of the selected exercise class. The size, length, width, height, relative position, color, opacity, and/or other configurations of such segments230may be representative of, for example, the length of the corresponding portions or parts of the selected exercise class. The segmented timeline228may also provide an indication232of elapsed time and/or remaining time for the present workout segment and/or for the exercise class generally. The segmented timeline228may also include one or more visual indica234a,234b,234c. . .234n(collectively, “indicia234”) indicating an activity and/or equipment required during a respective portion or part of the selected exercise class. For example, the indicia234amay indicate that the segment230acomprises a walking segment, indicia234dmay indicate that the segment230ccomprises a running segment, and the indicia234bmay indicate that weights are required for at least part of the segment230a. In any of the examples described herein, such timelines228may also include one or more lists or windows identifying and/or describing upcoming workout segments or features, instructional information such as graphics or videos demonstrating how to properly perform exercises, or other information relevant to the exercise class in progress.

As shown inFIGS.16-18, the user interface200may include a primary window236configured to show the live or archived exercise class or other content that the user106selected. In various exemplary embodiments, the user interface200may further include one or more performance metric windows238(e.g., the “scorecard” illustrated inFIGS.16and17) overlaid on and/or otherwise displayed together with the primary window236. Such performance metric windows238may show a ranking, total output, current output, incline, belt speed, mile pace, and/or other specific performance metrics for the user's current class, past classes, or other performance information. Such performance metric windows238may be presented anywhere on the display104, and may be user selectable such that they can be displayed or removed by a screen touch or gesture.

The user interface200may also allow the user106to toggle between display of maximum, average, and total results for different performance metrics. Additionally, the user interface200may allow the user106to hide or display information elements, including performance metrics, video streams, user information, etc. all at once or individually. Performance metrics and/or other performance information can also be displayed in various display bars240,242that can be hidden or displayed as a group or individually. The user interface200may provide for complete controls for audio volume, inputs, and outputs as well as display output characteristics.

As shown inFIG.18, a leaderboard244may also be displayed to allow the user106to see their performance in comparison to others taking the same exercise class. In various exemplary embodiments, a leaderboard244may comprise a separate window overlaid on and/or otherwise displayed together with the primary window236. An example leaderboard244may be configured to display the relative performance of all participants, and/or of one or more subgroups of participants. For example, the user106may be able to select a leaderboard244that shows the performance of participants in a particular age group, male participants, female participants, male participants in a particular age group, participants in a particular geographic area, etc. As indicated by the example filter shown inFIG.18, the leaderboard244has been configured to show the performance of a group of female participants in their 20's. Users106may have the ability to individually curate and/or otherwise configure a leaderboard244, or have the system100curate a leaderboard244by selecting an appropriate group of participants relative to the user106. Users106may be able to curate their own leaderboards244for specific previously recorded classes to create a leaderboard244that provides the maximum personal performance incentive to the user106.

Users106may be provided with the ability to deselect the leaderboard244entirely and remove it from the user interface200. In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine102may incorporate various social networking aspects such as allowing the user106to follow other participants, or to create groups or circles of participants. User lists and information may be accessed, sorted, filtered, and used in a wide range of different ways. For example, other users can be sorted, grouped and/or classified based on any characteristic including personal information such as age, gender, weight, or based on performance such as current power output, speed, or a custom score.

The leaderboard244may be fully interactive, allowing the user106to scroll up and down through the participant rankings, and to select a participant to access their detailed performance data, create a connection such as choosing to follow that participant, or establish direct communication such as through an audio and/or video connection. The leaderboard244may also display the user's personal best performance in the same or a comparable class, to allow the user106to compare their current performance to their previous personal best. In some examples, such performance information may also be displayed in one or more of the display bars240,242. The leaderboard244may also highlight certain participants, such as those that the user106follows, or provide other visual cues to indicate a connection or provide other information about a particular entry on the leaderboard244.

In various exemplary embodiments, the leaderboard244will also allow the user106to view their position and performance information at all times while scrolling through the leaderboard244. For example, if the user106scrolls up toward the top of the leaderboard244such as by dragging their fingers upward on the display104, when the user106reaches the bottom of the leaderboard244, it will lock in position and the rest of the leaderboard244will scroll underneath it. Similarly, if the user106scrolls down toward the bottom of the leaderboard244, when the user's window reaches the top of the leaderboard244, it will lock in position and the rest of the leaderboard244will continue to scroll underneath it.

In various exemplary embodiments, the system100may calculate and/or display one or more custom scores to describe one or more aspects of the users' performance. One example of such a custom score would be a decimal number calculated for a particular class or user session. Such a score could also be calculated using performance data from some or all classes or sessions over a particular period of time. In any of the examples described herein, such a custom score may be calculated and/or otherwise determined by the system100and/or by one or more processors of the exercise machine102based at least partly on an amount of time elapsed during an exercise class, a total output or total energy expended by the user106during such a class, and/or a number of exercise classes that the user106participated in within a given time period.

In various exemplary embodiments, performance information about other users may also be presented on the leaderboard244or in any other format, including formats that can be sorted by relevant performance parameters. Users may elect whether or not to make their performance available to all users, select users, and/or instructors, or to maintain it as private so that no one else can view it.

In various exemplary embodiments the user interface200may also present one or more video streams from a range of different sources. For example, one video stream may be the live or archived class content shown in the primary window236, while one or more additional video streams may be displayed in other windows on the display104. The various video streams may include live or recorded streaming instructor video or any other video content, including one or more live video chat streams. Such video content may include instructional information such as informational or demonstration content regarding how to perform a particular exercise. It may also include visual cues for the user106to follow in performing their exercise, such as timing indicators, counts, etc.

In further examples, one or more of the in-class user interfaces200illustrated in FIGS.16-18may be configured to provide one or more notifications246to the user106during the exercise class. For example, one or more of the sensors147may be configured to sense, detect, and/or otherwise determine a load applied to at least one of the belt120, the deck112, one or both of the motors114,118, and/or other components of the exercise machine102. Such sensors147may send one or more signals to the processor or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine102indicative of such a load and/or of a change in such a load. At least partly in response to such signals, the processor or other digital hardware148of the exercise machine102may cause the notification246to be displayed on the display104together with at least part of the exercise class selected by the user106. Such signals may indicate, for example, that the user106has stepped off of the belt120during a run segment of the exercise class. Accordingly, such notifications246may indicate that the user106has stepped off of the belt120and/or the deck112. Such notifications246may also request a response from the user106. For example, such notifications246may request the that the user106confirm that he/she is not hurt and/or that the user106would like to continue exercising.

As illustrated by the example user interfaces200shown inFIGS.19-21, if the user106selects the fourth tab210associated with the “just run” functionality of the exercise machine102, the system100may provide a user interface200showing information related to available quick-start running exercises/applications. For example, the user interface200may include one or more icons or thumbnails248,250,252allowing the user106to select a desired exercise regimen. The freestyle icon248may, for example, enable the user106to set his/her own incline, belt speed, running course, and/or other parameters, and may enable the user106to exercise in an undefined and unlimited way (e.g., without a specific exercise class being displayed on the display104). The scenic icon250, may be similar to the freestyle icon248in that it may enable the user106to exercise without a specific exercise class being displayed on the display104. However, in response to receiving an input indicative of the selection of the scenic icon250, the user interface200may present a plurality of additional icons or thumbnails254corresponding to respective scenic running trails stored in a memory of the exercise machine102. Such icons or thumbnails254are illustrated inFIG.20. Upon selecting one of the icons or thumbnails254, the user interface200may display the selected running trail on the display104as the user106exercises on the treadmill102. Further, the competitions icon252may enable the user106to perform a relatively high-intensity workout without a specific exercise class being displayed on the display104. For example, in response to receiving an input indicative of the selection of the competitions icon252, the user interface200may present a plurality of additional icons or thumbnails256corresponding to respective time-based challenges or competitions stored in a memory of the exercise machine102. Such icons or thumbnails256are illustrated inFIG.21. Upon selecting one of the icons or thumbnails256, the user interface200may display belt speed, deck incline, output, elapsed time, mile pace, calories burn, and/or other performance parameters or other information on the display104associated with the selected competition.

FIGS.22-24illustrate example user interfaces200configured to provide performance information to the user106before, during, or after a selected exercise class. For example, the user interface200illustrated inFIG.23provides an overview of information associated with a particular user106(e.g., “clementinecein”). As indicated in the user interface200ofFIG.23, such information may include, among other things, the number of followers the user106has, the number of fellow participants that the user106is following, the total lifetime runs, rides, circuits, or other workouts that the user106has done, the various achievements or rewards the user106has accomplished, personal best output records of the user106, a timeline of the user's recent workout activity, and/or other such general information associated with the user's workout activities. Such information may be displayed in one or more separate portions or windows258,260of the user interface200. In further examples, on the other hand, such information may be provided in the user interface200in alternative formats, windows, or locations.

The user interfaces200illustrated inFIGS.22and24, on the other hand, provide performance metrics, performance information, and/or other more detailed information associated with the workout history of the particular user106. For example, as indicated in the user interface200ofFIG.22, such information may include a listing of workouts or other exercise classes performed by the user106in the present week and/or in the present month. Such information may be displayed in a first window262of the user interface200, and may further include a summary of the user's output during each exercise class, the date and time of the class, the instructor, and/or other information. The user interface200may also include one or more additional windows264and/or other formats useful in providing additional information regarding the workout history of the user106. For example, such an additional window264may provide specific performance metrics (e.g., a heart rate trend line, a segmented timeline, an average heart rate, a total output, and/or other performance metrics) associated with a specific one of the previous workouts shown in the first window262.

Similarly, as illustrated inFIG.24, one or more additional user interfaces200providing information associated with the workout history of the particular user106may include the window262described above, as well as one or more additional windows266,268providing the achievements, output trends, and/or other workout information. For example, the window266may display the total output, distance run, elevation ascended, calories burned, average output and/or energy expended, average speed, average mile pace, and/or other information associated with a specific one of the previous workouts shown in the first window262. The window266may also display the leaderboard rank of the user106corresponding to the specific one of the previous workouts, as well as various achievements earned for performing the one of the previous workouts. The window268, on the other hand, may provide speed, output, and or other trend lines associated with the specific one of the previous workouts. As a result, the user interfaces200illustrated inFIGS.22-24may provide the user106with relatively detailed performance information that can be used by the user106to improve his/her overall health and/or abilities. Any of the information provided via the user interfaces200described herein may be stored in a memory or other component of the digital hardware148of the exercise machine102and/or may be stored remotely.

The performance-focused user interfaces200illustrated inFIGS.22-24may also be configured to provide information obtained from various additional sources. For example, data regarding user performance may be gathered from a variety of sources in addition to the various sensors147on the primary exercise machine102. As illustrated inFIG.5, other exercise machines102and devices used during an exercise class may each include one or more sensors to gather information regarding user performance. The user106may also use a variety of other clothing or devices attached to their body (e.g., a watch, a wrist band, a head band, a hat, shoes, etc.) including one or more additional sensors270. The user106may also use other exercise equipment272such as weights, resistance bands, rollers, or any other suitable equipment, and such exercise equipment272may also include one or more such additional sensors270. Data from all of these sources may be gathered by the local system100and analyzed to provide user performance feedback.

One challenge with certain types of data gathered from such sensors270is determining the proper context for interpreting the data so that accurate information regarding user performance can be derived. For example, a sensor270worn on the user's wrist may provide data indicating that the user's wrist performed a series of movements consistent with several different exercises, but it may be difficult or impossible to derive which exercise the user106was actually performing. Without context, data showing that the user's wrist moved up and down may indicate that the user106was running or they may simply have been moving their arm. As a result, performance data derived from such sensors270can be very inaccurate.

In various exemplary embodiments, data from a variety of sensors270on exercise equipment272such as free weights and on the users' body can be gathered, and the system100can use information regarding the instructor-led group fitness class to improve accuracy by providing context for the interpretation of sensor data gathered from all sources. If the class instructor has, for example, directed users106to do push-ups, the system100can assume that sensed movement consistent with a push-up is actually a push-up and interpret the sensor data accordingly. The context provided by the instructor-led group fitness class can substantially improve the resulting performance data.

Accordingly, the one or more user interfaces200described with respect to at leastFIGS.22-24may also provide one or more additional windows that can be used to display any of the performance data and/or other information obtained from the sensors270and/or the exercise equipment272. Such additional windows may also be configured to display a range of content including additional performance data, information about the class, instructor, other participants, etc., or secondary video streams. Such additional windows can allow the user106to see a range of information regarding other current or past participants to compare performance, and open or close voice or video chat streams or other communication channels. In various exemplary embodiments the user106can simultaneously access and/or view other content including movies, television channels, online channels, etc. via one or more such additional windows.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user interfaces200described herein may be run through a local program or application using a local operating system such as an Android or iOS application, or via a browser-based system. Any of the performance metrics or other information described herein with respect to the various user interfaces200may also be accessed remotely via any suitable network such as the internet. For example, users106may be able to access a website from a tablet, mobile phone, computer, and/or any other digital device, and such users106may be able to review historical information, communicate with other participants, schedule classes, access instructor information, and/or view any of the information described herein with respect to the various user interfaces200through such a website.

One feature of in-person group exercise classes is the ability to see other participants performing the exercises or other activities in response to the class leader's instructions. This ability to see others performing the same exercises or activities can provide motivation to maintain or improve performance, or help the user confirm that they are performing the proper exercise with proper form. In various exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, video streams can be displayed on the one or more displays104of the respective exercise machines102showing other class participants performing the exercises as instructed by an instructor or other class leader. In various exemplary embodiments, such additional video streams may include user-generated content related to the live or previously recorded exercise class content. Referring toFIG.8for example, an exemplary embodiment is illustrated wherein video streams of other class participants are displayed in sub-windows274a,274b,274c. . .274n(collectively “sub-windows274”) across a top portion of a user interface200shown on the display104. Such sub-windows274may be displayed on the display104while an instructor is displayed in a primary window276of the user interface200. If the class is a live class, such content may be streamed live. If the class is an archived class, such content may be streamed live if the other class participant is taking the class at the same time, or may be archived content from when the other class participant previously took the class. One or more of such video streams may be displayed on the one or more displays104described herein. Additionally, by touching, selecting, and/or otherwise providing input via one of the sub-windows274, the user interface200may provide an additional window278enabling the user106to expand a video associated with the selected sub-window, follow a user associated with the selected sub-window, and/or perform one or more additional actions associated with the selected sub-window.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user106may also be able to provide feedback regarding such user generated content. For example, the user106may be able to input positive or negative feedback such as indicating that they like or dislike the user-generated content by clicking on an icon provided via the additional window278indicating their opinion or otherwise inputting their opinion.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user106may also choose whether or not to display any such user-generated content. If user-generated content is displayed, which user-generated content is displayed to a particular user106can be determined several different ways. In various exemplary embodiments, the user-generated content may be chosen by the user106by selecting it from among the available user-generated content for a particular exercise class currently be displayed via the display104. Such user-generated content may also be chosen by the class instructor or one or more content editors, it may be presented via a content queue ordered based on any suitable criteria, or it may be chosen by the system100based on one or more suitable criteria. For example, the user-generated content to be displayed could simply be a time-based queue of available user-generated content without regard to quality.

In various exemplary embodiments, the user-generated content to be displayed may be selected to provide the best quality user-generated content available for a particular selected exercise class at the time of viewing. At the time the class is aired live, the available user-generated content would be limited to live streamed content generated during the class itself. For archived classes, the available user-generated content could include all content generated by every user that has participated in the class at any time. The user-generated content to be displayed for an archived class may be based on accumulated ratings for that user-generated content over time, or on any other measure of popularity. Such a methodology would result in an improvement of the user-generated content displayed with any archived class over time, as the user-generated content receiving the best feedback would be selected for display while user-generated content that did not receive positive feedback would not be displayed.

Local System

As noted above, an example local system100may include an exercise machine102, and a range of associated sensing, data storage, processing, and/or communications components (e.g., digital hardware148). In example embodiments, such components may be disposed onboard the exercise machine102itself and/or located near the exercise machine102. The processing, data storage, and/or communications components may be located within a housing of the display104to form a single integrated onboard computer and display screen, or they may be separately housed locally on or near the exercise machine102. Such an example local system100may communicate with one or more remote servers through wired or wireless connections using any suitable network or protocol.

Additionally as noted above, an example exercise machine102may be equipped with various sensors147to measure, sense, detect, and/or otherwise determine information relating to user performance metrics. Such information may be stored in memory associated with the digital hardware148and/or in memory associated with the remote servers, and such information may be used by the processors and/or other components of the digital hardware148to determine one or more of the performance metrics described herein and/or to determine other performance information. The exercise machine102may also be equipped with or connected to various data input devices or other user interfaces such as the display104, touchscreens, video cameras, and/or microphones.

The sensors147and other input devices can communicate with local and/or remote processing and storage devices via any suitable communications protocol and network, using any suitable connection including wired or wireless connections. In various exemplary embodiments, local communication may be managed using a variety of techniques. For example, local communication may be managed using wired transport with a serial protocol to communicate between sensors and the console. Local communication may also be managed using a wireless communication protocol such as the ANT or ANT+ protocol. ANT is a 2.4 GHz practical wireless networking protocol and embedded system solution specifically designed for wireless sensor networks (WSN) that require ultra-low power. Advantages include extremely compact architecture, network flexibility and scalability, ease of use and low system cost. Various combinations of wired and wireless local communication may also be used.

Access to any appropriate communications network such as the internet may be used to provide information to and receive information from other exercise machines102or other resources such as a backend system or platform. In various exemplary embodiments, the local system100can access and display information relating to other users either directly through a distributed platform or indirectly through a central platform regardless of their location. Such other users may be present at the same location or a nearby location, or they may be at a remote location.

Content Creation and Distribution

Content for delivery to users106including live and archived exercise classes, live and archived instructional content such as video content explaining how to properly perform an exercise, scenic or map-based content, videos, and/or animations that can be rendered in three-dimensions from any angle may be created and stored in various local or remote locations and shared across the networked exercise system. Such an example networked exercise system is illustrated in at leastFIG.9. This overview of such a networked exercise system is exemplary only and it will be readily understood that example embodiments of the present disclosure can be implemented through a variety of different system architectures using centralized or distributed content creation and distribution techniques.

In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system100is managed through one or more networked backend servers and includes various databases for storage of user information, system information, performance information, archived content, etc. Users' local systems100are in communication with the networked backend servers via any appropriate network, including without limitation the internet. As an example of an alternative distribution approach, in various exemplary embodiments the backend servers could be eliminated and data could be communicated throughout the system in a distributed or peer-to-peer manner rather than via a central server network. In such a system, performance data may be broken up into small packets or “pieces” and distributed among user devices such that complete data sets are quickly distributed to all devices for display as required.

Content for distribution through the network can be created in a variety of different ways. Content recording locations may include professional content recording studios or amateur and home-based locations. In various exemplary embodiments, recording studios may include space for live instructor-led exercise classes with live studio participation, or may be dedicated studios with no live, in-studio participation. As shown inFIG.9, recording equipment including one or more video cameras300, microphones302, mp3 players or other music players304, and/or other components and can be used to capture the instructor and/or participants during the class. Multiple cameras300can provide different views, and 3D cameras300can be used to create 3D content. In various exemplary embodiments, content may also be generated locally by users106. For example, exercise machines102may be equipped with recording equipment including microphones302and cameras300. Users106may generate live or recorded classes that can be transmitted, stored in the system, and distributed throughout the network.

With continued reference toFIG.9, class content may be generated by providing outputs of the one or more video cameras300, microphones302, and/or music players304as inputs to an audio mixer306. The audio mixer306may output content to an analog to digital converter308, which may provide converted data to a production switcher310. The production switcher310may send the production video to a video encoder312, which may store the encoded video to a local storage device314, and may also send it to a video transcoder316. The video transcoder316may output transcoded data to a video packetizer318, which may then send a packetized data stream out through a content distribution network320to remote system users322. In various exemplary embodiments, instructors and/or users106may be provided with access to a content creation platform that they can use to help them create content. Such a platform may provide tools for selecting and editing music, managing volume controls, pushing out chat or other communications to users.

As described above, through the display104and/or other user interface on their exercise machine102, users106may access lists, calendars, and schedules of live and recorded exercise classes available for delivery through the display104. In various exemplary embodiments, once the user106selects a class, the local system100accesses and displays a primary data stream for the class. This primary data stream may include video, music, voice, text, or any other data, and may represent a live or previously recorded cycling class. The local system100may be equipped for hardware video accelerated encoding/decoding to manage high definition video quality at up to 1080 pixels based on existing technology. The local system100may automatically adjust bitrate/quality of the data stream for the class in order to bring participant the highest quality video according to user's bandwidth/hardware limitations.

In various exemplary embodiments, networked exercise systems and methods of the present disclosure may include multi-directional communication and data transfer capabilities that allow video, audio, voice, and data sharing among all users and/or instructors. This allows users to access and display multi-directional video and audio streams from the instructor and/or other users regardless of location, and to establish direct communications with other users to have private or conferenced video and/or audio communications during live or recorded classes. Such data streams can be established through the local system100for presentation via the one or more displays104via one or more of the user interfaces200described above. In various exemplary embodiments, users106can manage multiple data streams to select and control inputs and outputs. The local system100may allow the user106to control the volume of primary audio stream for the class as well as other audio channels for different users or even unrelated audio streams such as telephone calls or their own music selections. For example, this would allow a user106to turn down the instructor volume to facilitate a conversation with other users.

For live classes, in various exemplary embodiments the instructor may have the ability to communicate with the entire class simultaneously or to contact individual users, and solicit feedback from all users regardless of location in real-time. For example, instructors could ask users verbally, or text a pop-up message to users106, seeking feedback on difficulty level, music choice, terrain, etc. Users106could then respond through components of the local system100by selecting an appropriate response, or providing verbal feedback. This allows instructors to use crowdsourcing to tailor a class to the needs of the participants, and to improve their classes by soliciting feedback or voting on particular class features or elements.

In various exemplary embodiments, instructors may also be able to set performance targets, and the system can measure and display to the user106and the instructor their performance relative to the target. For example, the instructor may set target metrics e.g. target power and speed, then display this next to users' readings with a color coding to indicate whether or not the user is meeting this target. The system may allow the instructor to remotely adjust exercise machine settings for individual users106. In various exemplary embodiments, the exercise machine102may also automatically adjust based on information from the user106, the instructor, or based on performance. For example, the exercise machine102may adjust the difficulty to maintain a particular performance parameter such as heart rate within a particular range or to meet a particular performance target.

In various exemplary embodiments, users106can control access to their own information, including sensor data, performance metrics, and personal information. Such data can be stored at the local system100, transmitted for storage and management by a remote system and shared with other users, or stored remotely but not shared with other users. Users106may also elect to disclose their presence on the system to other users, or to participate in a class without making their presence known to other users.

In various exemplary embodiments, users106can access a list of all or selected current and/or past class participants. Such lists may include performance information for such users, such as total power, speed, steps, cadence, resistance, or a custom score that provides information about relative user performance. Such lists may also include controls to allow the user to open up live streams to the user such as live video chat streams.

System Features and User Resources

In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system and methods may allow users106to create accounts and save and manage their performance data. As discussed above, the system may allow users106to browse schedules for upcoming live classes, signup for future live streaming classes, and setup reminders. Users106may also be able to invite others to participate in a live class, and setup text, email, voice, or other notifications and calendar entries. Users106may be able to access system, account, performance, and all other data via web-based or application based interfaces for desktop and/or mobile devices, in addition to the user interface for the local system100associated with their exercise machine102.

In various exemplary embodiments, the system can provide for simultaneous participation by multiple users in a recorded class, synchronized by the system and allowing access to all of the same communication and data sharing features that are available for a live class. With such a feature, the participants simultaneously participating in the same archived class can compete against each other, as well as against past performances or “ghost” participants for the same class.

Referring toFIGS.10and11, the system may be configured to feed synchronized live and/or archived video content and live and/or archived sensor data to users over the network. In various exemplary embodiments, the networked exercise system may be configured with a plurality of user exercise equipment400in communication with a video chat platform402, a video content distribution network404that receives audio video content from one or more content sources406. The user exercise equipment400may also be in communication with various other networks and servers. For example, the user exercise equipment400may exchange sensor and performance data and/or signaling with various databases408, including historical or “ghost participant” data. A control station may provide signals via the network to control the collection, storage, and management of data across the system.

One challenge for the use of comparative data from live and/or historical sources is synchronization, since some users106may start exercising prior to the start of the actual class, while others may join after the class has started. In order to provide accurate data regarding class performance for the leaderboard, including archived performance data, each class may have a specific “go” or start signal that serves as the starting time point for the data comparison. Archived performance data may be calibrated to the same “go” signal as live participant data, allowing for comparative data to be presented through a leaderboard or other display through the end of the class. A “stop” signal at the end of the class marks the end time point for the performance comparison for both live and archived performance data. If a participant joins the class after the “go” signal, their data can be synched correctly starting at the time they join the class.

FIG.11shows various events relative to time, which is increasing from left to right on the scale at the bottom. The timeline for the class itself, whether live or archived, is shown at the top, with timelines for four different participants below it. The video being delivered for a live or archived class may begin before the actual class starts at the video start point420. The GO signal point422indicates the start of the class or the class's comparison period, the STOP signal point424indicates the end of the class or the end of the class's comparison period, and the end video point426indicates the end of the video stream. For Participants1,2, and4, who all start exercising before the GO signal point, the GO signal serves as their starting time point for class performance metrics. For Participant3, the point in time when they actually start will serve as their starting time point for class performance metrics. For Participants1,2, and3who continued past the STOP signal point, their end point for class performance metrics will be the STOP signal point, while the end point for Participant4will be the time when they actually stopped exercising.

Using such a system, live and past performance data for the user or other participants can be provided during a class in a range of numerical and graphical formats for comparison and competition. Live and past performance data or target performance data for the user can also be displayed simultaneously to allow users to compare their performance to a benchmark in real time during or after a class. In various exemplary embodiments, the system may also allow users to establish handicapping systems to equalize the competition among different users or user groups allowing for broad based competitions.

In various exemplary embodiments, the system may combine information from multiple users106to produce a combined or collective result. For example, different user's performance information could be combined to produce a single performance measurement such as in a relay type race, where the times for different users are collected and combined into a single time or score for a team.

In various exemplary embodiments, the system may also combine the user's performance from two or more different exercise machines102to produce a single output or score. For example, performance information gathered from a bike and a treadmill used sequentially or as part of the same group exercise class may be combined together in a single output that reflects performance data from the plurality of exercise machines102.

In various exemplary embodiments, a mobile application may allow users on non-networked exercise machines to access the system via a mobile digital device such as a tablet computer or mobile phone and access content, live streams, and other system features. The mobile device could access the system via any appropriate network using a dedicated application or browser.

In various exemplary embodiments, one or more secondary displays may be used by the system to display class content. Using a device such as CHROMECAST or a similar integrated device to enable it to display content provided by the system through the user interface, a secondary display screen may be used to display class content or other content provided by the system. The user interface could automatically detect the availability of such an enabled device and allow the user to select the display screen for particular content.

Various types of rewards and honors can be created for different achievements to create incentives for improving performance or reaching other goals. In various exemplary embodiments, the instructor or users can create mini-competitions for participation by all users or just a selected subset of users such as a group of friends. Competitions such as sprints, hill climbs, maximum power output, etc. can be preset or created in real-time through the user interface. Winners can be rewarded with prizes such as badges, trophies, or biking specific honors such as a green or yellow jersey. Competitions can be created within a class or session, or across multiple classes or sessions.

CLAUSES

The example clauses A-T noted below set forth example embodiments of the present disclosure. Any of the clauses below, or individual features thereof, may be combined in any way. Further, the descriptions included in any of the example clauses below may be combined with one or more features described above or illustrated inFIGS.1-40. The clauses noted below are not intended to narrow the scope of the present disclosure in any way, and merely constitute examples of the various embodiments described herein.

A: In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a treadmill includes a deck having a continuous track, and a plurality of slats fixedly connected to the track. The treadmill also includes a first post extending from the deck, a second post extending from the deck opposite the first post, and a first arm supported by the first post and including a first rotary control. The treadmill further includes a second arm opposite the first arm and supported by the second post. The second arm includes a second rotary control separate from the first rotary control. The first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill and the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill different from the first function.
B: The treadmill of clause A, further comprising a first crossbar extending from the first arm to the second arm, and a second crossbar opposite the first crossbar extending from the first arm to the second arm, the second crossbar including a third control configured to stop rotation of the track.
C: The treadmill of clause A or B, wherein the first function comprises a rotational speed of the track, and the second function comprises an incline of the deck relative to a support surface on which the treadmill is disposed.
D: The treadmill of clause A, B, or C, wherein the first rotary control comprises an outer portion rotatable about a central axis of the first rotary control and relative to the first arm.
E: The treadmill of clause D, wherein the first rotary control further comprises an input device separate from the outer portion, the input device configured to control a third function of the treadmill different from the first and second functions.
F: The treadmill of clause D or E, wherein the outer portion is configured to contact at least one detent during rotation of the outer portion about the central axis, the at least one detent being configured to at least partly restrict rotation of the outer portion about the central axis.
G: The treadmill of clause A, B, C, D, E, or F, wherein the first rotary control comprises an indicator, and wherein rotation of an outer portion of the first rotary control results in commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator.
H: The treadmill of clause A, B, C, D, E, F, or G, wherein the first rotary control comprises: a first component configured to provide tactile feedback to a user of the treadmill as the user rotates the first rotary control relative to the first arm, and a second component different from the first component configured to provide visible feedback to the user as the user rotates the first rotary control relative to the first arm.
I: The treadmill of clause A, B, C, D, E, F, G, or H, wherein the first rotary control comprises a carrier, an outer portion rotatably connected to the carrier, and a printed circuit board connected to the carrier, and wherein rotation of the outer portion relative to the carrier causes a component of the printed circuit board to transmit a corresponding first signal to a controller of the treadmill.
J: The treadmill of clause I, wherein the first rotary control further comprises an inner portion including an input device, the input device is configured to receive an input, and receipt of the input causes the component of the printed circuit board to transmit a corresponding second signal to the controller.
K: In another example embodiment of the present disclosure, a treadmill includes a controller, a first motor operably connected to the controller, a second motor separate from the first motor and operably connected to the controller, a first rotary control operably connected to the controller, and a second rotary control separate from the first rotary control and operably connected to the controller. In such an embodiment, the first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill associated with the first motor. Additionally, the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill associated with the second motor different from the first function.
L: The treadmill of clause K, wherein the first function comprises a rotational speed of a continuous track of the treadmill, and the second function comprises an incline of a deck of the treadmill relative to a support surface on which the treadmill is disposed.
M: The treadmill of clause K or L, wherein the first rotary control comprises a first outer portion rotatable about a central axis of the first rotary control, and the second rotary control comprises a second outer portion rotatable about a central axis of the second rotary control.
N: The treadmill of clause K, L, or M, wherein at least one of the first rotary control or the second rotary control comprises an input device operably connected to the controller and configured to control a third function of the treadmill different from the first and second functions.
O: The treadmill of clause K, L, M, or N, wherein at least one of the first rotary control or the second rotary control comprises an indicator, and wherein rotation of the at least one of the first rotary control or the second rotary control results in commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator.
P: The treadmill of clause K, L, M, N, or O, further comprising a third control separate from the first rotary control and the second rotary control, the third control being operably connected to the controller and configured to stop rotation of a continuous track of the treadmill.
Q: In an example embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a treadmill includes providing an upper assembly including a first arm, a second arm opposite the first arm, a first crossbar extending from the first arm to the second arm, and a second crossbar opposite the first crossbar and extending from the first arm to the second arm. The method also includes connecting a first rotary control to the first arm, the first rotary control including an outer portion rotatable relative to the first arm, and an inner portion including an input device. The method further includes connecting a second rotary control to the second arm, the second rotary control including an outer portion rotatable relative to the second arm. The method also includes operably connecting the first and second rotary controls to a controller of the treadmill. The first rotary control is configured to control a first function of the treadmill via the controller, and the second rotary control is configured to control a second function of the treadmill via the controller different from the first function.
R: The method of clause Q, further comprising connecting a third control to the first crossbar, wherein the third control is operably connected to the controller of the treadmill, is configured to control a third function of the treadmill via the controller, and the third function is different from the first function and the second function.
S: The method of clause Q or R, wherein the outer portion of the first control is rotatable, relative to the inner portion of the first control, about a central axis of the first control, the first control further includes an indicator configured such that rotation of the outer portion of the first control results in commensurate temporary illumination of at least part of the indicator, and the input device is configured to control a third function of the treadmill different from the first function and the second function.
T: The method of clause S, wherein the first control further includes at least one detent configured to provide tactile feedback to a user of the treadmill as the user rotates the outer portion of the first control relative to the central axis.

CONCLUSION