Athletic watch

A device for monitoring athletic performance of a user has a wristband configured to be worn by the user. An electronic module is removably attached to the wristband. The electronic module has a controller and a screen and a plurality of user inputs operably associated with the controller. The user inputs include a user input configured to be applied by the user against the screen and in a direction generally normal to the screen. The controller may further be configured to generate one or more user interfaces in response to various user inputs and conditions. For example, the controller may generate workout mode interfaces and non-workout mode interfaces including various goal information, workout data, reminders and the like. In one or more arrangements, multiple types of information may be displayed simultaneously.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to an athletic performance monitoring device and, more particularly, to a watch having enhanced athletic functionality.

BACKGROUND

Devices such as watches and, in particular, watches having features allowing a wearer to monitor athletic performance are known. For example, runners often wear watches to keep track of time, distance, pace and laps etc. Such watches, however, are oftentimes not user friendly and cumbersome to use. Consequently, the wearer may not utilize the watch to its full potential. Such watches also have limited athletic performance monitoring capabilities. Accordingly, while certain watches having athletic functionality provide a number of advantageous features, they nevertheless have certain limitations. The present invention seeks to overcome certain of these limitations and other drawbacks of the prior art, and to provide new features not heretofore available.

SUMMARY

The present invention relates to athletic performance monitoring devices and, in particular, to a watch having enhanced athletic functionality.

According to one aspect of the invention, a device for monitoring athletic performance of a user has a wristband configured to be worn by the user. An electronic module is removably attached to the wristband. The electronic module has a controller and a screen and a plurality of user inputs operably associated with the controller. In an exemplary embodiment, the user inputs are configured in a three-axis or tri-axis configuration for enhanced user operability. A first input is applied along an x-axis. A second input is applied along an y-axis. A third input is applied along a z-axis.

According to another aspect of the invention, the watch has a controller and user interface having enhanced operability for the user. For example, the controller may generate one or more user interfaces displaying various types of athletic activity statistics during, before or after user performance of an athletic activity. A user interface may include multiple lines of data, each line displaying a different workout statistic or other information (e.g., time of day, time zone, user location, etc.). In one arrangement, a user interface may include a goal progress tracker. The tracker may include one or more progress bars, for example, representing one or more sub-goals. Sub-goals may correspond to tasks required for completion of the overall goal. Sub-goals may be defined and scheduled to facilitate completion of the overall goal. An indicator may further be displayed to identify a current sub-goal or time period for a sub-goal (e.g., a current day). Depending on an amount of athletic activity a user has performed for a time period of a sub-goal, a corresponding progress bar may be filled in by a corresponding amount. For example, if a user has completed 50% of a distance scheduled to be run on Wednesday, a progress bar for Wednesday may be filled in halfway.

According to another aspect, reminders or motivating messages may be displayed to a user to encourage users to maintain an athletic activity regimen and/or to keep on track to complete a goal. In one or more arrangements, the reminders or motivating messages may include a prompt asking the user to confirm that athletic activity will be performed within a specified amount of time from the reminder. Additionally, upon the user confirming that athletic activity will be performed within a specified amount of time, a confirmation message may be displayed. The confirmation may include a further motivational or encouraging message. Further, a user may be asked to schedule the athletic activity upon specifying that athletic activity will be performed within the specified amount of time.

According to yet another aspect, a user may mark laps through an interface of an athletic activity monitoring device. In one or more arrangements, lap information might only be updated after a specified amount of time after the receipt of the user lap marking input. Additionally or alternatively, a lap indicator might only be increased or an increased lap indicator might only be displayed after the specified amount of time. An interface other than an interface displaying the lap indicator may be displayed after receiving the lap marking input but prior to expiration of the specified amount of time.

According to another aspect of the invention, a user can send a motivational message to a second user via the remote site. Upon connecting to the remote site, a notify message is transferred to the electronic module of the second user. When the second user reaches a certain predetermined metric associated with the message, the second user receives the notify message. The second user can access the motivational message by plugging in the electronic module into the computer to connect to the remote site. In another embodiment, the message may be displayed directly on the watch of the second user.

According to another aspect of the invention, the electronic module is removably connected to the wristband. In one embodiment, the electronic module may have one or more protrusions received by corresponding apertures in the wristband. The watch may employ alternative connection structures. The connection structures may have flexible configurations, removable key module configurations, and articulating connector configurations.

According to yet another aspect, an amount of time a backlight is active may be defined dynamically and/or automatically based on a function that the user is currently performing. For example, if a user is viewing or interacting with a first user interface (e.g., a graph of a workout), the device may a lot more backlight time (e.g., the backlight will automatically turn off after a longer predefined period) than a default backlight time. In another example, the amount of backlight time may depend on amounts of backlight time used in previous user interactions with the same process, interface or function.

Other features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following examples in the specification taken in conjunction with the following drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Device Structures

The present invention discloses multiple embodiments of a device or athletic watch.FIGS. 1-21disclose a first embodiment of the watch;FIGS. 22-49disclose a second embodiment of the watch;FIGS. 50-64disclose a third embodiment of the watch; andFIGS. 65-85disclose additional alternative embodiments of the watch. As discussed further herein, each of the embodiments can incorporate the various operational features, user interface and global positioning system (“GPS”) features as described herein. Structures of each embodiment will be described in greater detail below followed by a description of additional capabilities and features of the watch.

FIGS. 1-3generally show a device or watch of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral10. While the watch10has traditional uses such as incorporating a chronograph for general timekeeping, as explained in greater detail below, the watch10has unique functionality for athletic and fitness use such as monitoring athletic performance of the user. The watch10generally includes a portable electronic module12removably connected to a carrier14or strap member in the form of a wristband14in an exemplary embodiment.

The structure of the watch10will first be described followed by a description of the operation of the watch10. However, as explained in greater detail below, it is noted that the watch10is capable of wirelessly communicating with various sensors1worn by a user to record and monitor athletic performance of a user. The sensor(s) can take various forms. For example, the sensor may be mounted on the shoe of a user as shown inFIG. 1and include an accelerometer. The sensor may have various electronic components including a power supply, magnetic sensor element, microprocessor, memory, transmission system and other suitable electronic devices. The sensor may be used in conjunction with other components of the system to record speed and distance among other parameters of athletic performance. In exemplary embodiments, the sensor can be a sensor as disclosed in U.S. Publications No. 2007/0006489; 2007/0011919 and 2007/0021269, which are incorporated by reference herein and made a part hereof. Additionally, the sensor may be a component of a heart-rate monitor1worn by a user as shown inFIG. 1. Thus, the watch10may communicate with both a shoe sensor1and a heart rate sensor1. The watch10may further communicate with only one of the shoe sensor and heart rate sensor depending on a user's preference. As explained in greater detail below, the watch10may also include component(s) such as a three-axis accelerometer to monitor speed and distance of a user/runner without the need for the shoe sensor. As also explained below, the watch10has communication capabilities with remote locations for receiving and transferring data relating to athletic performance monitoring.

Electronic Module

As further shown inFIGS. 2-8, the portable electronic module12includes various components supported by a housing16, the components include a controller18having a suitable processor and other known components, an input device assembly20, an output device assembly22, and a communication connector24, which may be considered a part of the input device assembly20and/or the output device assembly22in various embodiments. The communication connector24may be, for instance, a USB connector24. The controller18is operably connected to the input device assembly20, the output device assembly22and the communication connector24. As explained in greater detail below, the electronic module12may also include a GPS (“Global Positioning System”) receiver and associated antenna operably connected to the controller18for incorporating various GPS features.

As depicted inFIGS. 2-5, the housing16has a first end30, a second end32, a first side34, a second side36, a front side38, and a back side40. The front side38may also include a glass member39or crystal39for viewing a display of the controller18therethrough. The housing16defines a cavity42therein for accommodating the various components of the controller18. It is understood that the housing ends, sides and crystal cooperate to enclose the housing16. As further shown in the figures, the communication connector24extends from the first side30of the housing16. It is understood that the communication connector24could be positioned at various other locations of the housing16. The communication connector24generally extends rigidly from the housing16. As further shown in other embodiments, the communication connector24can be flexible with respect to the housing16. In other embodiments described herein, the USB connector24may be rigidly connected to the housing16in other configurations. As discussed, the communication connector24is a USB connector and may have a plurality of leads therein and wherein the leads are operably connected to the controller18. The housing16can be made from a variety of different rigid materials including metal or generally rigid polymeric materials. The housing16could also be formed in a two-shot injection molding process wherein the communication connector24could be molded to be flexible with respect to the housing16. It is also understood that the USB connector24could be separately fastened to the housing16consistent with other embodiments described herein. The USB connector24generally provides a water-resistant connection with the housing16and controller18. As shown inFIG. 7, the housing16has a pair of protrusions44(it is understood one protrusion44is hidden) extending from the back side40of the housing16. It is understood that a single protrusion44could be used or more protrusions44. Because the watch10may be used in fitness activities, there is some chance that the watch10can be subject to water or moisture such as perspiration. The housing16is designed to be water-resistant to protect components of the controller18. Such structures further provide for a certain level of impact resistance. A vent opening is provided in the wristband14to channel any moisture away from the module12.

As further shown inFIG. 4, the controller18generally has a processor46that is operably connected to the input device assembly20and the output device assembly22as understood by those skilled in the art. The controller18includes software that in cooperation with the input device assembly and output device assembly provide user interface features as will be described in greater below. The components of the controller18are contained within and supported by the housing16. The controller18includes various electrical components including a rechargeable power supply (e.g., rechargeable battery or other battery types) and system memory. The controller18will also include an antenna48, allowing the controller and portable electronic module can communicate with the sensors1, record and store data relating to athletic performance, and other time information. The controller18also functions to upload performance data to a remote location or site as is known in the art, but can also download additional information from a remote site or location to be stored by the controller18for further use. The antenna48can take various forms including a chip antenna associated with the controller18. Alternatively, the antenna48could be a sheet metal antenna. With other embodiments incorporating GPS features, an additional GPS antenna may also be provided. Thus, the watch10may incorporate multiple antennas. The controller is operably connected to the communication connector24of the housing16.

As further shown inFIGS. 2-4, the input device assembly20includes a plurality of input devices such as in the form of depressible buttons. In certain exemplary embodiment, the USB connector24can also be considered an input device when data is transferred to the watch10via the connector24. In one exemplary embodiment, the input device assembly20has three input buttons that collectively define a tri-axis operating configuration (e.g., x-y-z axes). The input buttons include a side button50, an end button52and a shock sensor, shock button or tap button54.

The side button50is located on the first side34of the housing16. The side button50may correspond with a first input and being operably connected to the controller18for controlling the portable electronic module12. As shown inFIG. 1, the side button50is configured to operate in an x-axis direction. The user may activate the first input by pressing on the side button50on the first side34of the housing16. The user may squeeze the side button50and opposite second side36of the housing16along the x-axis direction (FIGS. 2 and 11). The side button50may also cooperate with an additional input of the controller18for controlling the portable electronic module12. For example, a user may press one segment of the side button50, such as a top segment50a, for a first input, and may press a second segment of the side button50, such as a bottom segment50b, for a second or additional input different from the first input. As explained in greater detail below regarding the operation of the watch10, the side button50may be utilized as a toggle button or scroll button, with the first input located towards the top of the side button and the additional input located towards the bottom of the side button. The side button50may then be used to move a cursor on the display up or down in order to select an item from a list. It is also understood that the side button50may be positioned on the opposite side36of the housing16, which may be considered a three o'clock position. The side button50shown inFIG. 2is considered to be in the nine o-clock position.

The end button52may be located on the second end32of the housing16. The end button52will correspond to a second input and is operably connected to the controller18for controlling the portable electronic module12. As shown inFIG. 2, the end button52is configured to operate in a y-axis direction. The user may activate the second input by pressing on the end button52on the second end32of the housing16. The user may squeeze the end button50and the opposite first end30of the housing16along the y-axis direction (FIG. 12). As explained in greater detail below regarding the operation of the watch10, the end button may be used as the OK or SELECT function.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shock button54or tap button54generally corresponds to a shock sensor that is preferably located within the housing16and is operably connected to the controller18, such as a printed circuit board of the controller18.FIG. 8ashows a schematic view of a printed circuit board of the controller18. The controller18includes lead interfaces18athat cooperate with the USB connector24. The board operably supports the shock sensor54generally proximate a periphery of the board which also positions the shock sensor at a periphery of the housing16. Thus, the shock sensor54is operably connected to the controller18and may be a piezo shock sensor in this exemplary embodiment. Even when positioned proximate a periphery, the acceleration sensed at the periphery location is generally very close to the acceleration at the center location such as from a user tapping generally at a center of the screen39. It is understood that the shock button54may be located in alternate positions on the controller18or in the housing16. For example, the shock sensor54may be located proximate a center of the board as shown in phantom lines inFIG. 8a, which generally corresponds to a center of the housing16and underneath a center point of the crystal39. The shock sensor can take other forms other than a shock sensor and may also be an accelerometer in one exemplary embodiment. For example,FIG. 8bshows a printed circuit board of the controller18wherein a shock button54is in the form of an accelerometer and positioned at a periphery of the board. As shown in phantom lines, the accelerometer may also be positioned proximate a center of the board and therefore proximate a center of the housing16. As discussed, the shock button54, in any of its forms, is generally positioned within the housing16and beneath the crystal39(FIG. 7). It is understood that the shock sensor54shown inFIG. 8amay have lesser power requirements than the accelerometer sensor54shown inFIG. 8b. It is understood that the accelerometer54shown inFIG. 8bcould be a three-axis accelerometer and have additional function in addition to sensing the tap input or third input. For example, the accelerometer could be used to wake-up the device upon motion as well as speed and distance measurement for the user.

The shock sensor54could also be positioned on the front side38of the housing16. The shock button54corresponds to a third input and is operably connected to the controller18controlling the portable electronic module12. It is understood that the shock button54possesses required sensitivity to sense taps or forces applied to the screen39by the user. As shown inFIG. 1, the shock button54is configured to operate in a z-axis direction. The user may activate the third input by tapping or pressing on the crystal39or display screen. This tapping or pressing on the display screen39will activate the shock button54or tap button54. Thus, the shock button54has a sensitivity such that a tap on the crystal39activates the shock button54and applies certain inputs associated with the controller18. In an exemplary embodiment, the z-axis direction is a direction that is generally normal to the screen39. It is understood that directions varying from a normal direction can also be sufficient to activate the shock button.

Additionally, the shock button54may be configured to correspond with a fourth input of the controller18for controlling the portable electronic module12. For instance, the shock button54may sense two different shock levels or forces, e.g. a soft level and a hard level. The soft level is activated when the user presses or taps with a first amount of force (F1) in order to activate the soft level of the sensor54. The hard level is activated when the user presses or taps with a greater amount of force (F2) to activate the hard level of the sensor54. Additional levels could also be incorporated into the shock button54. Additional tapping sequences can also be operably associated with the button54to provide additional inputs to the watch10. Generally, the watch10can be programmed to receive a plurality of taps to provide a desired input to the watch10. For example, a fast double tap or triple tap could provide a preset input. In addition, as further described herein, the watch10may have a variety of different operational modes. The various tap or tapping sequences could be assigned to different inputs based on a particular operational mode. The tap-related inputs can also be assigned to the watch at the user's computer location. Once assigned at the user's computer, once data transfer is performed from the computer to the watch10, the tap-related inputs are loaded onto the watch10. The tap sensor could also be combined with other force-related sensors wherein a tap combined with dragging the user's finger across the screen could provide yet additional input(s). Thus, the watch10may provide the shock button in combination with a touch screen for additional input capabilities. As a further exemplary embodiment, the tap or tapping sequence may provide other specific inputs if the user is in the GPS operational mode of the watch10. The sensors can further be configured to sense forces applied to the screen in different directions other than a general normal force on the screen.

As further shown inFIG. 4, the output device assembly22includes a plurality of output devices including a display56. The USB connector24may also be considered an output device when transferring data from the electronic module12. It is further understood that the output device assembly22may include an audible speaker if desired. The controller18can have additional capabilities for communicating with other devices such as digital music players or other electronic devices.

The display56is located generally proximate the front side38of the housing16and is positioned beneath the crystal39or screen39. The display56is operably connected to the controller18and includes a plurality of different display fields as shown in the user interface display screens to be described. In cooperation with the user interface associated with the watch10, information is displayed in the various display fields as described in greater detail below. As also described, a user can modify what information is displayed and the manner in which the information is displayed. In one exemplary embodiment, the display56may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. The display56may also have a negative screen. The negative screen may give the user the option to reverse the appearance of text from black numbers on a white background to white numbers on a black background. This negative screen may also be referred to as reverse display or negative display. The negative screen may help to reduce the glare for many users. It is understood that the portable electronic module12can have additional or alternate input devices and output devices.

The electronic module has a rechargeable battery contained within the housing to provide power to the watch10. The rechargeable battery is charged such as when the user plugs the electronic module into a computer as shown inFIG. 10. It is understood that the battery associated with the controller can utilize a plurality of batteries or power sources. A first battery may be utilized for the general watch/chronograph functions. A second battery may be utilized for other controller functions including communicating with the sensors for example. The first battery would be a typical battery that has a long life and support the basic watch functions. The other second battery can be a traditional rechargeable battery to support the additional controller functions associated with monitoring athletic performance, which functions may be more demanding on the power source. In such configuration, the watch functions would not be compromised even if the rechargeable battery was depleted by the athletic performance monitoring functions or if the user had not worked out for some time and had not charged the electronic module.

Carrier

As shown inFIGS. 1-7, the carrier14is generally in the form of a wristband14having a central portion between a first end portion and a second end portion. The wristband14may include a first member and second member generally molded or connected together. The wristband14is flexible to fit around a user's wrist. In one exemplary embodiment, the wristband14may be injected molded of a flexible polymeric material. The wristband14has receiving structures for connection to the portable electronic module12. As shown inFIG. 6, the carrier14includes a protective sleeve60proximate the central portion and having an opening62in communication with an internal passageway64. The communication connector24is received through the opening62and into the internal passageway64. The protective sleeve60has a generally contoured outer surface. The sleeve60may have internal structure for assisting in securing the connector24, such as ridges that provide an interference type fit between the sleeve60and the connector24. As further shown inFIG. 6, the central portion of the wristband14may have an insert66that defines a portion of the opening62. A vent may be provided through a bottom portion of the wristband14and is in communication with the passageway64proximate the connector24when inserted into the wristband14. The vent allows any moisture to escape from the wristband14and be channeled away from the connector24. Also at the central portion, the carrier14has a pair of apertures68dimensioned to respectively receive the pair of protrusions44of the portable electronic module12.

As further shown in the figures, the first end portion has a pair of holes to accommodate a removable closure70used to fasten the wristband14to a wrist of a user. To this end, the removable closure70cooperates with the plurality of holes in the wristband14. The removable closure70has a plate member72and a plurality of posts74extending generally in a perpendicular direction from the plate member72. In the exemplary embodiment, the plate member72has two posts74. To wear the wristband, first the removable closure70is connected to the first end portion of the wristband strap wherein the pair of holes is provided to receive the posts74. The wristband14is positioned around the user's wrist and the posts74are inserted into holes provided on the second end portion of the wristband14as can be appreciated fromFIG. 2. After the posts74are inserted into the pair of holes of the first end portion of the wristband14and the plurality of holes of the second end portion of the wristband14, the first end portion and second end portion of the wristband14overlap one another. With the use of a pair of posts74, the removable closure70allows for a secure connection and greater flexibility in connection providing for a greater adjustment to accommodate for a range of wrist sizes.

Additionally, the plate member72can have indicia76thereon. The plate member72, when attached to the wristband14faces away from the wristband14wherein the indicia76can be viewed by others. Because the removable closure70is easily removable, the closure70can be used as a memento, different closures can be provided and used with the wristband18. Thus, removable closures70having different indicia can be provided and used as a keepsake, memento, or a reward for accomplishing a goal, participating in a race, or otherwise achieving a certain level of fitness. Indicia can take various forms including wording, graphics, color schemes, textures, or other designs etc.

The watch10can utilize alternate closure mechanisms. For example, as shown inFIG. 64, the wristband14can utilized a traditional buckle member in conjunction with an alternate removable closure70a. In this embodiment, the removable closure70has a smaller circular plate member72ahaving a single post74a. The removable closure70ais attached at a distal end of one of the end portions of the wristband14and then inserted into the other portion of the wristband14.

As discussed, the portable electronic module12is removably connected to the carrier14or wristband14. As explained in greater detail below, the portable electronic module12may be plugged into a computer via the communication connector24wherein data and other information may be downloaded to the module12from a remote location such as an athletic performance monitoring site, or remote site (FIGS. 9, 10, 16-20). Data recorded by the electronic module12may also be uploaded to the computer and then the remote site. Data can be displayed as shown inFIGS. 16, 17, 19 and 20. Additional data can also be downloaded from the remote site or computer to the portable electronic module12. The portable electronic module12can then be re-connected to the wristband14. The connector24is inserted into the sleeve60of the carrier14, and the protrusions44are placed into the respective apertures68of the carrier14. The enlarged heads of the protrusions44abuts against the wristband14to retain the module12onto the wristband14. This provides for a wearable watch10wherein a user can utilize additional features of the watch10described herein relating to athletic performance and fitness. As discussed, the electronic module12is removably connected to the wristband14wherein data can be transferred by plugging the module12into the computer as shown inFIG. 10. In another exemplary embodiment as shown inFIG. 21, the module12can have a port to receive a communication cord used for data transfer between the module12and a computer or remote site.

General Operation

It is understood that the portable electronic module12of the watch10has associated software to function with the user interfaces associated with the watch10.FIG. 18shows schematically components of an overall system associated with the watch10. As explained in greater detail below, in addition to having chronograph functions like a conventional watch, the watch10has additional athletic functionality. For example, a user wearing shoes having a sensor(s)1mounted therein or a heart rate monitor1can use the watch10to wirelessly communicate with the sensor(s)1and monitor performance such as during exercise including running. Other sensor types can also be incorporated for use by the user and communication with the watch10. The watch10can record and monitor athletic performance of the user.

Generally, the user controls operation of the watch10utilizing the three inputs described above, namely the side button50, the end button52and the shock button54. These inputs are configured such that the user provides inputs along first, second and third axes. In an exemplary embodiment, the inputs are configured in a tri-axes configuration, namely an x-y-z axes configuration (FIG. 2). This provides an enhanced user friendly user interface wherein the user can easily control operation of the watch10while participating in athletic activity. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 11, the side button50is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the side button50and opposite housing side36generally along the x-axis. The end button52is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the end button52and proximate the opposite housing end30generally along the y-axis (FIG. 12). Finally, the shock button54is typically actuated by the user tapping the front side38of the housing16, typically the crystal39, generally along the z-axis (FIGS. 14 and 15). As explained in greater detail below, the side button50is normally utilized to scroll or cycle through a list of items or values within the user interface, by pressing up or down in order to scroll through the list of items. The end button52is normally utilized for selecting items within the user interface, such as the options of “SELECT” and “OK.” The shock button54is generally utilized for lighting the backlight and other specific functions such as marking of laps. For example, to light the backlight associated with the controller18and display56, a user can simply tap the crystal39. As also discussed in greater detail below, a user can tap the crystal39to actuate the shock button54to “mark” a segment of an athletic performance. The user may also have the ability to customize the buttons to their own preferences by utilizing the set-up functionality within the watch10or other software such as from a desktop utility associated with the watch10as well as remote site functionality that may be inputted into the watch10such as through the USB connector24. Additional operability and features of the watch10will be described in greater detail below.

FIGS. 22-49disclose another embodiment of the athletic watch of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral100. Similar structures will be designated with similar reference numerals in the 100 series of reference numerals Similar to the embodiment ofFIGS. 1-21, the athletic watch100generally includes an electronic module112and a carrier114in the form of a wristband114in the exemplary embodiment. Similar to the watch10ofFIGS. 1-21, the watch100has traditional uses such as incorporating a chronograph for general timekeeping, as well as the unique functionality for athletic and fitness use such as monitoring athletic performance of the user. Thus, the watch100can communicate with a shoe-based sensor1and/or a hear rate monitor1(shown in phantom inFIG. 22). It is further understood that the watch100has the same operational features regarding user interfaces, GPS and other features as described herein.

Electronic Module

As shown inFIGS. 23-28, the portable electronic module112includes various components supported by a housing116, the components including a controller118having a suitable processor and other known components, an input device assembly120, an output device assembly122, and a communication connector124, which may be considered a part of the input device assembly120and/or the output device assembly122in various embodiments. The communication connector124may be, for instance, a USB connector124. The controller118is operably connected to the input device assembly120, the output device assembly122and the communication connector124. As discussed, the electronic module112may also include a GPS receiver and associated antenna for incorporating various GPS features.

As depicted inFIG. 25, the housing116has a first end130, a second end132, a first side134, a second side136, a front side38, and a back side140. The front side138may also include a glass member139or crystal139for viewing a display of the controller118therethrough. The housing116defines a cavity142therein for accommodating the various components of the controller118. It is understood that the housing ends, sides and crystal cooperate to enclose the housing116. As further shown in the figures, the communication connector124extends from the first side130of the housing116. It is understood that the communication connector124could be positioned at various other locations of the housing16. The communication connector124could also be operably connected to other portions of the watch10such as various portions of the carrier114. In this embodiment, the communication connector124generally rigidly extends from the housing116. As discussed, the communication connector124is a USB connector and may have a plurality of leads therein and wherein the leads are operably connected to the controller118. The housing116can be made from a variety of different rigid materials including metal or generally rigid polymeric materials. In this exemplary embodiment, the housing116is injection molded. The USB connector124generally provides a water-resistant connection with the housing16and controller18. As shown inFIGS. 26, 27-28, the housing116has a protrusion144extending from the back side140of the housing116. It is understood that a plurality of protrusions144could be used if desired. Because the watch100may be used in fitness activities, there is some chance that the watch10can be subject to water or moisture such as perspiration. The housing116is designed to be water-resistant to protect components of the controller118. Such structures further provide for a certain level of impact resistance. A vent opening may also be provided in the wristband114to channel any moisture away from the module112. As further shown inFIG. 25, the housing116may also include a rubber boot117that is designed to generally cover surfaces of the housing117and serve as an outer skin. It is understood that the rubber boot117has an opening for the crystal139to be visible and for the protrusion144to extend through. The rubber boot117is cooperatively dimensioned to wrap around the housing116to resist any moisture or debris penetration.

As further shown inFIG. 25, the controller118generally has a processor146that is operably connected to the input device assembly120and the output device assembly122as understood by those skilled in the art. The controller118includes software that in cooperation with the input device assembly120and output device assembly122provide user interface features as will be described in greater below. The components of the controller118are contained within and supported by the housing116. The controller118includes various electrical components including a rechargeable power supply (e.g., rechargeable battery or other battery types) and system memory. The controller118will also include an antenna148(FIG. 38), allowing the controller118and portable electronic module112to communicate with the sensors1, record and store data relating to athletic performance, other time information, as well other operational features such as GPS features. The antenna148can take various forms including a chip antenna associated with the controller118. Alternatively, the antenna148could be a sheet metal antenna. With other embodiments incorporating GPS features, a separate GPS antenna may also be provided. Thus, the watch110may incorporate multiple antennas. The controller118is operably connected to the communication connector124of the housing116.

The input device assembly120includes a plurality of input devices such as in the form of depressible buttons. In certain exemplary embodiment, the USB connector124can also be considered an input device when data is transferred to the watch100via the connector124. In one exemplary embodiment, the input device assembly120has three input buttons that collectively define a tri-axis operating configuration (e.g., x-y-z axes) (FIG. 27). The input buttons include a side button150, an end button152and a shock or tap button154.

The side button150is located on the first side134of the housing116. The side button150may correspond with a first input and being operably connected to the controller118for controlling the portable electronic module112. As shown inFIG. 1, the side button150is configured to operate in an x-axis direction. The user may activate the first input by pressing on the side button150on the first side134of the housing116. The user may squeeze the side button150and opposite second side136of the housing116along the x-axis direction (FIG. 27). In an exemplary embodiment, the side button150may include a pair of buttons that are operably associated with the controller118for controlling the portable electronic module112. For example, the side button150has a first side button150aand a second side button150b. Thus, a user may press the first side button150a, for a first input, and may press the second side button150bfor a second or additional input different from the first input. As explained in greater detail below regarding the operation of the watch110, the side buttons150a,150bmay be utilized as a toggle button or scroll button, with the first input corresponding to the first side button150aand the additional input corresponding to the second side button150b. The side buttons150a,150bmay then be used to move a cursor on the display up or down in order to select an item from a list. It is also understood that the side button150may be positioned on the opposite side136of the housing16, which may be considered a three o'clock position. The side button150shown inFIG. 27is considered to be in the nine o-clock position.

The end button152is located on the second end132of the housing116. The end button152corresponds to a second input and is operably connected to the controller118for controlling the portable electronic module112. As shown inFIG. 27, the end button152is configured to operate in a y-axis direction. The user may activate the second input by pressing on the end button152on the second end132of the housing116. The user may squeeze the end button152and the opposite first end130of the housing116along the y-axis direction (FIG. 27). As explained in greater detail below regarding the operation of the watch110, the end button152may be used as the OK or SELECT function.

In an exemplary embodiment, the shock button154or tap button154generally corresponds to a shock sensor that is preferably located within the housing16. It is understood that the discussion above regarding the shock button54ofFIGS. 1-21equally applies to the shock button154in this embodiment. It is understood that the button154can take other forms other than a shock sensor and also may be located in alternate positions within the housing116. The shock sensor154is generally positioned within the housing116(FIGS. 30-31) and beneath the crystal139. As shown inFIGS. 30 and 31, the shock button154is positioned proximate a periphery of the controller118and housing116.FIG. 31shows the shock button154adjacent to the battery positioned in the housing116. As discussed above, the shock button154could be positioned at other locations such as generally proximate a center of the housing controller18and housing116. The shock sensor154could be positioned on the front side138of the housing116. The shock button54corresponds to a third input and is operably connected to the controller118controlling the portable electronic module12. As shown inFIG. 27, the shock button154is configured to operate in a z-axis direction. The user may activate the third input by tapping or pressing on the crystal39or display screen. This tapping or pressing on the display screen39will activate the shock button154or tap button154. Thus, the shock sensor154has a sensitivity such that a tap on the crystal39activates the shock button54. Additionally, the shock button154may be configured to correspond with a fourth input of the controller118for controlling the portable electronic module112. For instance, the shock button154may sense two different shock levels or forces, e.g. a soft level and a hard level. The soft level is activated when the user presses or taps with a first amount of force F1in order to activate the soft level of the sensor154. The hard level is activated when the user presses or taps with a greater amount of force F2to activate the hard level of the sensor154. Additional levels could also be incorporated into the shock sensor154.

As further shown inFIGS. 25 and 27, the output device assembly122includes a plurality of output devices including a display156. The USB connector124may also be considered an output device when transferring data from the electronic module112. It is further understood that the output device assembly122may include an audible speaker if desired. The controller118can have additional capabilities for communicating with other devices such as digital music players or other electronic devices.

The display156is located generally proximate the front side138of the housing116and is positioned beneath the crystal139or screen139. The display156is operably connected to the controller118and includes a plurality of different display fields as shown in the user interface display screens to be described. In cooperation with the user interface associated with the watch100, information is displayed in the various display fields as described in greater detail below. As also described, a user can modify what information is displayed and the manner in which the information is displayed. In one exemplary embodiment, the display156may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) screen. The display156may also have a negative screen. The negative screen may give the user the option to reverse the appearance of text from black numbers on a white background to white numbers on a black background. This negative screen may also be referred to as reverse display or negative display. The negative screen may help to reduce the glare for many users. It is understood that the portable electronic module112can have additional or alternate input devices and output devices.

The electronic module has a rechargeable battery contained within the housing to provide power to the watch100. The rechargeable battery is charged such as when the user plugs the electronic module into a computer as shown inFIG. 10. It is understood that the battery associated with the controller can utilize a plurality of batteries or power sources. A first battery may be utilized for the general watch/chronograph functions. A second battery may be utilized for other controller functions including communicating with the sensors for example. The first battery would be a typical battery that has a long life and support the basic watch functions. The other second battery can be a traditional rechargeable battery to support the additional controller functions associated with monitoring athletic performance, which functions may be more demanding on the power source. In such configuration, the watch functions would not be compromised even if the rechargeable battery was depleted by the athletic performance monitoring functions or if the user had not worked out for some time and had not charged the electronic module.FIG. 31discloses a battery positioned in the housing116.

Carrier

As shown inFIGS. 23-26, the carrier114is generally in the form of a wristband114having a central portion between a first end portion and a second end portion. The wristband114may include separate members generally molded or connected together. The wristband114is flexible to fit around a user's wrist. In one exemplary embodiment, the wristband114may be injected molded of a flexible polymeric material. The wristband114has receiving structures for connection to the portable electronic module112. The carrier114includes a protective sleeve160proximate the central portion and having an opening162in communication with an internal passageway164. The communication connector124is received through the opening162and into the internal passageway164. The protective sleeve160has a generally contoured outer surface. The sleeve160may have internal structure for assisting in securing the connector124, such as ridges that provide an interference type fit between the sleeve160and the connector124. A vent may be provided through a bottom portion of the wristband114and is in communication with the passageway164proximate the connector124when inserted into the wristband114. The vent allows any moisture to escape from the wristband118and be channeled away from the connector124. Also at the central portion, the carrier14has an aperture68dimensioned to respectively receive the protrusion44of the portable electronic module112.

As further shown in the figures, the first end portion has a pair of holes to accommodate a removable closure170used to fasten the wristband114to a wrist of a user. To this end, the removable closure170cooperates with the plurality of holes in the wristband114. The removable closure170has a plate member172and a plurality of posts174extending generally in a perpendicular direction from the plate member172. In the exemplary embodiment, the plate member172has two posts174. To wear the wristband, first the removable closure170is connected to the first end portion of the wristband strap114wherein the pair of holes is provided to receive the posts174. The wristband114is positioned around the user's wrist and the posts174are inserted into holes provided on the second end portion of the wristband114. After the posts174are inserted into the pair of holes of the first end portion of the wristband114and the plurality of holes of the second end portion of the wristband114, the first end portion and second end portion of the wristband114overlap one another. With the use of a pair of posts174, the removable closure170allows for a secure connection and greater flexibility in connection providing for a greater adjustment to accommodate for a range of wrist sizes.

Additionally, the plate member172can have indicia176thereon. The plate member172, when attached to the wristband114faces away from the wristband114wherein the indicia176can be viewed by others. Because the removable closure170is easily removable, the closure170can be used as a memento, different closures can be provided and used with the wristband114. Thus, removable closures170having different indicia can be provided and used as a keepsake, memento, or a reward for accomplishing a goal, participating in a race, or otherwise achieving a certain level of fitness. Indicia can take various forms including wording, graphics, color schemes, textures, or other designs etc.

FIGS. 33-49disclose additional views and features of the watch100and, in particular, showing additional connection of components associated with the electronic module112.

As shown inFIGS. 32-34, the housing116is provided and is an injection-molded component in an exemplary embodiment. The USB connector124may be integrally formed as part of the housing116and the USB connector124may have metal leads125embedded within the connector124. Ends of the leads125extend into the internal cavity of the housing116to be in operable connection with the controller118as explained in greater detail below. The side button150and end button152are suitably mounted to the housing116and have associated resilient spring members to assist in the operability of the buttons. In an exemplary embodiment, the housing116has multiple components wherein a top component supporting the screen139is fastened to the main housing component such as by ultrasonic welding. A seal ring may also be positioned between the housing components prior to connection to provide a sealed configuration.

As further shown inFIGS. 35-43, the controller118is formed as a sub-assembly to be mounted in the housing116. The controller118has a main printed circuit board B that is connected to the display156, which is an LCD display in an exemplary embodiment. The controller118further has a user input interface157that is also operably connected to the main printed circuit board. The user input interface157is a flexible member and has a first pair of members157a,157bthat correspond to the first input/side button150a,150bas well as a second member157cthat corresponds to the second input/end button152. The flexible member is capable of bending around so that one segment of the flexible member is mounted on a side of the controller118and a second segment of the flexible member is mounted on an end of the controller118. The flexible member may have locating openings that mount on pegs on the mid-frame M. The flexible user input interface157provides for a more efficient manufacture of the watch as the flexible member is more easy to handle and manipulate. The shock button154in the form of a shock sensor or accelerometer is also operably mounted on the main printed circuit board B consistent with the discussion regardingFIGS. 8aand 8babove. As shown inFIG. 36, the controller118may have a mid-frame component M to support the components of the controller118. The antenna148is connected to the main printed circuit board B as shown inFIGS. 38-40. A distal end of the antenna148may be formed around an edge of the mid-frame M as shown inFIG. 40. As shown inFIGS. 41-42, the display156is snapped into place. The battery PS is also connected to the main printed circuit board B as shown inFIGS. 43-44.

As further shown inFIGS. 44-46, the sub-assembly controller is positioned in the inner cavity of the housing116wherein the leads125of the USB connector124are operably connected to a contacts pad P on the printed circuit board B of the controller118. As shown inFIG. 47, a piezoelectric member is connected to a back component of the housing116. As shown inFIG. 48, the back component of the housing116is connected to the other housing component supporting the controller sub-assembly wherein the controller118is suitably mounted in the housing116. A seal member is positioned between the housing components to provide the desired seal. The bottom housing component has the protrusion144thereon. It is understood that the housing components can be connected via traditional screw fasteners or other known fastening means.

As shown inFIG. 49, an overlay member117in the form of a resilient rubber boot is considered part of the housing116. The overlay member117has openings to accommodate the end button152, the USB connector124, the screen139and the protrusion144. The overlay member117has raised sections corresponding to the side buttons. The overlay member117is positioned over the housing116wherein the electronic module112is formed. The overlay member117may have a heat-activated adhesive on an inside surface of the member117that is activated to affix the overlay member117to the housing components. As further shown inFIG. 23-24, the electronic module112is removably connected to the wristband114wherein the USB connector124is received in the sleeve160through the opening162and the protrusion144is received in the aperture168. The watch100can then be worn on the user's wrist.

As discussed, the portable electronic module112is removably connected to the carrier114or wristband114. As explained in greater detail below, the portable electronic module112may be plugged into a computer via the communication connector124wherein data and other information may be downloaded to the module112from a remote location such as an athletic performance monitoring site, or remote site (SeeFIGS. 10 and 16-20). Data recorded by the electronic module112may also be uploaded to the computer and then the remote site. The portable electronic module112can then be connected to the wristband114. The connector124is inserted into the sleeve160of the carrier114, and the protrusion144is placed into the aperture168of the carrier114. The enlarged head of the protrusion144abuts against the wristband114to retain the module112onto the wristband114. This provides for a wearable watch110wherein a user can utilize additional features of the watch100described herein relating to athletic performance and fitness.

General Operation

It is understood that the portable electronic module112of the watch100has associated software to function with the user interfaces associated with the watch100. As explained in greater detail below, in addition to having chronograph functions like a conventional watch, the watch100has additional athletic functionality. For example, a user wearing shoes having a sensor(s)1mounted therein or a heart rate monitor1can use the watch100to wirelessly communicate with the sensor(s)1and monitor performance such as during exercise including running. Other sensor types can also be incorporated for use by the user and communication with the watch100. The watch100can record and monitor athletic performance of the user.

Generally, the user controls operation of the watch100utilizing the three inputs described above, namely the side button150, the end button152and the shock button154. These inputs are configured such that the user provides inputs along first, second and third axes. In an exemplary embodiment, the inputs are configured in a tri-axes configuration, namely an x-y-z axes configuration (FIG. 27). This provides an enhanced user friendly user interface wherein the user can easily control operation of the watch100while participating in athletic activity. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 27, the side button150is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the side button150and opposite housing side136generally along the x-axis. The end button152is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the end button152and opposite housing end130generally along the y-axis (FIG. 27). Finally, the shock button54is typically actuated by the user tapping the front side138of the housing116, typically the crystal139, generally along the z-axis (FIGS. 14, 15 and 27). As explained in greater detail below, the side button150is normally utilized to scroll or cycle through a list of items or values within the user interface, by pressing up or down in order to scroll through the list of items. The end button152is normally utilized for selecting items within the user interface, such as the options of “SELECT” and “OK.” The shock button154is generally utilized for lighting the backlight and other specific functions such as marking of laps. For example, to light the backlight associated with the controller118and display156, a user can simply tap the crystal139. As also discussed in greater detail below, a user can tap the crystal139to actuate the shock button154to “mark” a segment of an athletic performance. The user may also have the ability to customize the buttons to their own preferences by utilizing the set-up functionality within the watch100or other software such as from a desktop utility associated with the watch100as well as remote site functionality that may be inputted into the watch100such as through the USB connector124.

FIGS. 50-64disclose another embodiment of the watch of the present invention generally designated with the reference numeral400. The watch400of this embodiment has similar structure and functionality to the watch10ofFIG. 1-21and the watch100ofFIGS. 22-49. Similar structures will not be fully described in greater detail as the above description applies equally to this additional embodiment. Similar structures will be described with reference numerals in the 400 series of reference numerals. As discussed, the watch400of this embodiment can utilize the user interface features described herein and have GPS functionality as described herein. As generally shown inFIGS. 50-53, the watch400generally includes a portable electronic module412removably connected to a carrier414or strap member in the form of a wristband414.

As shown inFIGS. 54-60, the portable electronic module412includes various components supported by a housing416, the components including a controller418, an input device assembly420, an output device assembly422, and a communication connector424, which may be considered a part of the input device assembly420and/or the output device assembly422in various embodiments. The communication connector424may be, for instance, a USB connector424. The controller418is operably connected to the input device assembly420, the output device assembly422and the communication connector424.

As shown inFIGS. 54-55, in this embodiment, the side button450is located at the three o-clock position, generally on the opposite side of the housing416from previous embodiments. Testing has found that for some users, this location can be more ergonomically preferred. The housing416also has the pair of protrusions444for cooperating with the apertures in the wristband414for securing the electronic module. The protrusions444are located for improved fit for user's having smaller wrists. The mounting core associated with the wristband in prior embodiments is eliminated in this design.

FIGS. 56-61also show different exploded views of the various components of the electronic module412. It is noted that the main controller418can be connected in a sub-assembly that is received in the cavity of the housing416wherein the glass or crystal439is placed over the controller sub-assembly similar to the watch100ofFIGS. 22-49. It is further understood that the input buttons have tactile surfaces for enhanced operability of the watch. The watch400further includes a piezo speaker for audio feedback (FIG. 60). The components of the controller sub-assembly are formed in a similar fashion as described above regarding the watch100ofFIGS. 22-49.

FIGS. 59-63show the communication connector424in greater detail. In this embodiment, the communication connector424is a separate member that is connected to the housing416and also in operable communication with the controller418. As discussed, the communication connector424is in the form of a USB connector424. As shown inFIG. 61, the USB connector424generally includes a base member480and a lead assembly481. The base member480has mounting structure482and a leg483extending from the mounting structure482. The mounting structure482defines a floor484having a plurality of openings485extending from the floor484and into the mounting structure482. In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting structure482has four openings485. The mounting structure482further has three protrusions486extending vertically upwards. The lead assembly481has a first lead segment487and a second lead segment488. The first lead segment487includes a plurality of leads supported by the leg483and having ends extending into the mounting structure482and into the openings485. Thus, in an exemplary embodiment, the first lead segment487includes four leads. The leads487are embedded in the leg such as by an injection molding process wherein the plastic is injected into a mold around the leads487. The second lead segment488includes a plurality of leads488and in an exemplary embodiment, four leads. In a further exemplary embodiment the second leads488are resilient members such as in the form of wire springs488. Each second lead488is inserted into a respective opening in the mounting structure482. One end of each second lead488is in engagement with a respective first leads487(FIG. 62). Opposite ends of the second leads488extend out of the openings in the mounting structure. As shown inFIGS. 58-63, the mounting structure482is inserted into a recess in a bottom of the housing416and secured thereto via suitable fasteners489. Fasteners can be screws, adhesives, welding or other securing members. The recess further has three apertures that receive the three protrusions486on the mounting structure482. A gasket490is also included around the second leads488and is sandwiched between the mounting structure482and a portion of the housing416. The second leads488extend through an opening in the bottom of the housing416wherein the ends of the second leads488are in operable connection with corresponding openings in the controller418. When the USB connector424is connected to the housing416, the second leads488are in a compressed state. Accordingly, an operable conductive connection is provided from the controller418to the ends of the first leads487supported by the leg483. The USB connector424is easily inserted into the user's computer for data transfer as described above (FIG. 10). This USB connector design provides a secure and robust connection between the connector and the housing. This construction also minimizes the chance of moisture entering the housing via this connection. This configuration further allows for USB leads to be embedded in the leg via an injection molding process wherein the housing can be selected from various metal materials if desired.

As discussed, the embodiment of the watch shown inFIGS. 50-64has all of the same operability characteristics described herein. Accordingly, the user interface features including the GPS features described herein are applicable to this watch embodiment.

Many embodiments described herein disclose a USB connector for data transfer between the electronic module and the user's computer and/or the remote site. The communication connector of the watch can also take other forms. In one embodiment, the communication connector can be a plug in connector such as shown inFIG. 21. The connector may have a cord with plug members to be inserted into the electronic module and the user's computer. The plug members that are inserted into the electronic module to secure the plug member can be magnetic members and also serve as data transfer members. Thus, data transmission can occur through the magnetic connectors if desired.

As discussed herein, the watch may employ various antennas for communication capabilities. The antennas can take various forms including chip antennas or sheet metal antennas. The sheet metal antenna may be a thin planar member positioned around a periphery of the display and sandwiched between the display and the crystal. The antennas are contained within the housing and in operable connection with the controller. The watch may further employ a GPS antenna in certain embodiments. The watch can employ a first antenna dedicated to communicate with the foot sensor and heart rate sensor and a second antenna dedicated to communicate with the GPS receiver chip.

FIGS. 65-69disclose another embodiment of the watch of the present invention, generally designated with the reference numeral500. Similar to previous embodiments, the watch500generally includes an electronic module512and a carrier514. It is understood that the watch500has all the functional characteristics of other embodiments described herein including user interface and GPS features.

As further shown inFIG. 66, the watch500has a connector524structured in an alternate configuration. The connector524is operably connected to the electronic module512and is incorporated into the carrier514. The carrier514is in the form of a wristband in the exemplary embodiment. A distal end515of the wristband514is in the form of a USB connector and represents the connector524. The connector524has leads525at the distal end that define the USB connector524. A plurality of flexible conductor connectors527are embedded in the wristband514and have one end operably connected to the controller of the electronic module512and another end operably connected to the leads525of the connector524. The flexible connectors527may be bundled together if desired or can be embedded in separate fashion within the wristband514. As further shown inFIGS. 66-69, the wristband514also has a cap member580at another segment of the wristband514. The cap member580has a first slot581to accommodate the wristband segment to mount the cap member580. The cap member580has a second slot582positioned on the cap member580generally adjacent to the first slot581. When a user is wearing the watch500, the distal end515of the wristband514having the connector524incorporated therein is inserted into and received by the second slot582as shown inFIGS. 67-68. The cap member580thus protects the USB connector524.

Consistent with the description herein, the connector524is inserted into the USB port of a computer for data transfer. Data can be transferred between the electronic module512, the user's computer, as well as a remote site as described herein. Other operational features described herein are incorporated into the watch500.

FIGS. 70-73disclose an additional variation of the embodiment ofFIGS. 65-99. As shown inFIGS. 70-73, the wristband514has a cover member584positioned proximate the distal end515of the wristband514. The cover member584is hingedly connected to the wristband514proximate the distal end515. As shown inFIG. 71, the cover member584has a recessed portion586therein that accommodates the connector524. The cover member584is moveable between a first position and a second position. In a first position as shown inFIG. 72, the cover member584covers the USB connector524at the distal end515. The recessed portion586receives the connector524. Accordingly, the leads525of the USB connector524are protected by the cover member584. As shown inFIG. 72, the distal end515with the cover member584in the first position can be inserted into the second slot582of the cap member580. The slot582of the cap member580may be sized to accommodate the distal end with the cover member584. As shown inFIG. 70, the cover member584is movable to the second position exposing the leads of the USB connector524by pivoting the cover member584away from the distal end515. The leads525of the USB connector524are then exposed wherein the USB connector524can be plugged into the USB port of a computer for data transfer as described herein with reference toFIG. 10.

FIGS. 74-77disclose another variation of the watch of the present invention, similar to the embodiment ofFIGS. 70-73and similar structures will be referenced with similar reference numerals. The watch also has a cover member584hingedly connected to the wristband514. The cover member584may be connected to the wristband514via a support member attached to the wristband. The cover member584also has the recessed portion586to accommodate the USB connector524at the distal end515of the wristband514. The cover member584has a protrusion588on an inside surface. The cover member584is moveable between a first position and a second position. In a first position as shown inFIG. 75, the cover member584covers the USB connector524at the distal end515. Accordingly, the leads525of the USB connector524are protected by the cover member584. As shown inFIG. 74, the distal end515with the cover member584in the first position can be connected to the other portion of the wristband514wherein the protrusion588is received in an aperture in the wristband514. As shown inFIG. 76, the cover member588is movable to the second position exposing the leads of the USB connector524by pivoting the cover member584away from the distal end515. The leads of the USB connector524are then exposed wherein the USB connector524can be plugged into the USB port of a computer for data transfer as described herein with reference toFIG. 10.

FIGS. 78-85disclose additional structures wherein the USB connector524is incorporated into the wristband such as in the embodiments ofFIGS. 65-77. In certain exemplary embodiments, the USB connector524has a lead assembly that is incorporated into the wristband via certain injection molding processes.FIGS. 78-79disclose the formation of a portion of the wristband514via an injection molding process. As shown inFIG. 78, the USB connector524includes a cable assembly590that are in conductive communication with the USB leads at the distal end of the connector524. The cable assembly590is laid in a mold wherein a first shot of injected molded material is injected into the mold and around the cable assembly to form a portion of the wristband as shown inFIG. 79. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 80, a second shot of injected molded material is injected into the mold to form the wristband514.

FIGS. 81-83disclose another process in forming the wristband514. As shown inFIG. 81, a first shot of injection molded material592is injected into a mold and includes a central groove593therein and forming a partial assembly. As shown inFIG. 82, the cable assembly590is laid into the groove593in a partial assembly. As shown inFIG. 83, a second shot of injection molded material is injected into the mold to form the wristband514.

FIGS. 84 and 85disclose a plug insert594of the USB connector. As a distal end, the cable assembly590has four flexible conductors527extending therefrom. Each conductor527extends and is connected to a respective USB lead525in the plug assembly594. The cable assembly590is dimensioned to be as thin as possible while still allowing sufficient reliability while the thickness of the injected molded material is set so as to provide sufficient protection of the cable assembly but providing for a comfortable fit around a user's wrist.

It is understood that the various embodiments of the athletic watch described above can incorporate and include the operational features, user interface features and GPS functionality as describe herein. It is further understood that combinations of the various features can also be included in the various embodiments of the athletic watches of the present invention.

Operation and User Interface

It is understood that the portable electronic module12of the watch10has associated software to function with the user interfaces associated with the watch10. In one arrangement, one or more processors such as that of controller18may be configured to execute one or more computer readable instructions stored in computer readable media (e.g., memory of controller18) to perform various functions including generating one or more user interfaces and processing the input and interactions received therethrough. As explained in greater detail below, in addition to having chronograph functions like a conventional watch, the watch10has additional athletic functionality. For example, a user wearing shoes having a sensor(s)1mounted therein or a heart rate monitor can use the watch10to wirelessly communicate with the sensor(s)1and monitor performance such as during exercise including running. Other sensor types can also be incorporated for use by the user and communication with the watch10. The watch10can record and monitor athletic performance of the user.

Generally, the user controls operation of the watch10utilizing the three inputs described above, namely the side button50, the end button52and the shock button54. These inputs are configured such that the user provides inputs along first, second and third axes. In an exemplary embodiment, the inputs are configured in a tri-axes configuration, namely an x-y-z axes configuration (FIG. 2). This provides an enhanced user friendly user interface wherein the user can easily control operation of the watch10while participating in athletic activity. As can be appreciated fromFIG. 10, the side button50is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the side button50and opposite housing side36generally along the x-axis. The end button52is typically actuated by a user squeezing or pinching the end button52and opposite housing end30generally along the y-axis (FIG. 12). Finally, the shock button54is typically actuated by the user tapping the front side38of the housing16, typically the crystal39, generally along the z-axis (FIGS. 14, 22). As explained in greater detail below, the side button50is normally utilized to scroll or cycle through a list of items or values within the user interface, by pressing up or down in order to scroll through the list of items. The end button52is normally utilized for selecting items within the user interface, such as the options of “SELECT” and “OK.” The shock button54is generally utilized for lighting the backlight and other specific functions such as marking of laps. For example, to light the backlight associated with the controller18and display56, a user can simply tap the crystal39. As also discussed in greater detail below, a user can tap the crystal39to actuate the shock button54to “mark” a segment of an athletic performance. The user may also have the ability to customize the buttons to their own preferences by utilizing the set-up functionality within the watch10or other software such as from a desktop utility associated with the watch10as well as remote site functionality that may be inputted into the watch10such as through the USB connector24.

In reference toFIGS. 86-140, the user interface has two different modes. The first mode is an out-of-workout (“OOWO”) mode. The OOWO mode is used for normal operation when the user is not participating in an athletic performance. The second mode is an in-workout (“IWO”) mode for controlling, displaying, and recording a user's athletic performance, such as a run. The OOWO mode is used to guide a user to the IWO mode such as when starting a run.

In the OOWO mode, the user interface provides a plurality of menu selections for operation of a plurality of sub-modes. While the selections can vary, in an exemplary embodiment, the menu selections include: a Time of Day mode, a Settings mode, a Run mode (which includes the IWO mode), a Last Run mode, a Remote Site mode, and an Extended Feature mode (FIG. 86b). InFIG. 86c, the menu selections may further include a records mode in which a user may view workout records set by the user. For example, the user may view the fastest run, farthest distance run, most calories burned, fastest pace, longest time run and the like.

FIGS. 127 and 129illustrate example sequences of interfaces in which a user may navigate through a menu list that includes a clock mode, a run mode, a last run mode and a records mode. A last run option in the menu interface may scroll within the highlight bar or region to display additional information (e.g., a number of saved workouts).

FIG. 128illustrates a sequence of interfaces that may be displayed upon a user completing a soft reset of watch10.

FIGS. 130aand 130billustrate a map defining a navigation sequence through multiple interfaces for monitoring and tracking workouts. For example, a user may select a clock option, run option, last run option and a records option all from a top level menu. The interfaces ofFIGS. 130aand 130bfurther display examples of information that may be displayed upon selection each of the options.

In the Time of Day mode, or the T.O.D. mode, the chronograph functions associated with the watch10are generally used and displayed such as shown inFIGS. 107aand 107b. The display in the T.O.D. mode can be customized by the user as further described herein. If a different mode of the user interface is selected, a user can scroll through the menu selections using the side button50and then select the T.O.D. mode using the end button52. The T.O.D. mode may be the default setting for the watch10. As discussed, the display56includes the plurality of different display fields. In these fields, the time of day, date and day of week may be displayed. Variations on how this information is displayed in the display fields can also be set by the user in the Settings mode as described below. The display56may also include a performance display field that can constantly display current information such as, weekly runs, distance run and/or calories burned over certain periods of time, as well as goals or records. Such performance values can be updated as desired. It is understood that the display56has a backlight associated therewith that deactivates after a predetermined time of inactivity. The user may tap the front side38to light the backlight to illuminate the display56.

By scrolling through the menu selections using the side button and depressing the end button at the Settings mode, the user can set certain values and features of the watch10. In one exemplary embodiment, the menu selections of the Settings mode include a Time/Date function, a Calibrate function, a Sensor function and a Sounds function.

In the Time/Date function (FIG. 96), controller/the user interface will display the time and date as currently set within the controller. The controller may display a pair of arrows above and below the numbers in the display field to be set. Depressing the end button sets the correct value. The user continues this process to set the complete Time and Date. It is understood that the Time can be set in military time if desired. The order of the month, day and year could also be arranged as desired. Once the proper time and date have been set, the user is prompted to select Accept or Cancel. Selecting Accept takes the user back to the initial menu selection of the Settings Mode. The user can also then select “EXIT” from the Settings mode menu to return to a default setting such as the T.O.D. mode.

As shown inFIG. 97a, using the side button50and end button52, a user can scroll and select the Calibrate function in the Settings mode. This allows the user to calibrate a sensor, such as the shoe-based sensor, to ensure accurate time-distance calculations for the athletic performances. As shown inFIG. 97a, once Calibrate is selected by pressing the end button52, the controller will then display the message “WORKOUT TYPE,” with the selection of “RUN” or “WALK” or “EXIT.” The user may then select “RUN” and the controller will then display a list of the user's past runs. The highlighted workout displays the date and distance, toggling between each, so the user knows what the date and distance was for that workout. The user may then select the date of the run that the user wants to use for the calibration. The controller then displays the “ADJUST DISTANCE” screen. The user will then be able to adjust the distance in order to ensure the proper distance is entered into the controller. The controller may display a pair of arrows above and below the numbers for adjusting distance. The user can use the side button50to increment or decrement the numbers for the time. The user may then press the end button52to move to the next number. The user may continue this process while setting the correct distance as shown inFIG. 97a. After the user completes adjustment of the distance values, the controller displays an “ACCEPT/CANCEL” selection screen. Once the user presses the end button52to select “ACCEPT,” the controller displays a “CALIBRATE COMPLETE” screen and returns to the Settings selection screen. If the distance exceeds a preset authorized range, the controller will display a “CALIBRATE FAILED” screen. The user would then be prompted to re-input a proper distance as describe above. A calibration can also cancelled by the user. It is understood that additional parameters can be added to the calibration process such as incorporating the user's inseam length and/or height with stride length.

FIG. 97billustrates another example series of interface for calibrating a sensor and workout. The calibration method may depend on the type of workout and thus, the interfaces may allow the user to select the type of workout.

In the Settings mode, the user can also link new sensors to the watch10. As shown inFIG. 98, several menu options are displayed in the Settings mode, namely: TIME:DATE, CALIBRATE, SENSORS, and SOUNDS. The user selects the “SENSORS” option using the side button50and the end button52consistent with the description above. The controller then displays the message “WALK TO LINK.” After a set amount of time while the user walks, the watch10detects the sensor and the controller displays an “OK” screen for a set period of time. The user can then utilize other functions of the user interface. As further shown inFIG. 99, the user can also set the distance units in either miles or kilometers using the buttons50,52consistent with the description above.

It is further understood that the user interface has a Sounds selection as part of the Settings menu (FIG. 100). The user has the option to have the Sounds on or off, as well as having the Sounds on only during a run in the IWO mode. The Settings menu may also have a Weight menu selection (FIG. 102) wherein a user can enter weight information to further enhance the performance features of the watch10. As shownFIG. 101, the user can also select a COACH mode from the settings menu. Additional features regarding the COACH mode will be described in greater detail below.

As further shown inFIG. 103, the Settings mode includes a menu selection for “Laps.” The Laps function allows a user to manually or automatically apply certain demarcations to the performance data as displayed to the user as further described below. Generally, the Laps function is utilized by tapping the front side38of the watch10as described above, and generally the crystal39which activates the shock sensor54. As discussed, the user can scroll through the menu selections and select “Laps.” As shown inFIG. 103, a plurality of Laps types is available regarding the “Laps” function. First, the user can select that the Laps function be turned off. In other settings, the Laps function can be set to other types including Manual, Auto or Interval. If the user selects the Manual setting for the Laps function, the controller then displays the general Settings menu wherein a user can proceed with further activity. In this setting, the user can mark laps by tapping the crystal39. For example as shown inFIG. 15, the user may tap the watch10to mark a lap, which when the user connects the module12to the Remote Site, the laps will be marked with indicia marks on a run curve such as shown inFIG. 14. If the user selects the Auto setting, the user interface displays an “Auto Lap Every” screen. The user can then select whether a lap will be marked at a certain time, e.g. every 10 minutes, or at each mile or kilometer. The user also has the option of multiple auto-marking intervals, e.g., marking 1 mile and then every 1 minute. Once selected, a review screen is displayed, wherein the user can accept the selection. If the user selects the Interval Laps type, additional screens are displayed prompting additional inputs from the user. These inputs will be described in further detail below in relation to the Run mode. A “Run For” screen is displayed wherein the user enters the distance to run. Once the distance is entered, a Rest For screen is displayed wherein the user enters the time the user will rest after the distance entered is run. As further shown inFIG. 103, the user is prompted to Accept the entered values. The user can also choose to Cancel the entered values wherein the initial Laps Interval screen is displayed for the user.

If the user selects “LAPS,” the controller may display the times of each of the laps for the past run. The controller will also display the numbered lap along with the time for the lap-time in a scrolling feature when the cursor is over that certain lap. If the user selects OK while the cursor is over a lap, the controller will display the specific data for that lap, such as pace, total workout time, and total distance.

Once various values and parameters are set in the Settings mode, the user can select the Run mode using the side button50and end button52as shown inFIG. 86b. The Run mode will enter the user into the in-work-out (IWO) as describe above. Once selected, the user is prompted to link to sensors worn by the user. In an exemplary embodiment, the sensor is a shoe-based sensor such as an accelerometer and/or a heart rate monitor.

If the user has not previously linked a heart rate sensor to the watch10, the user interface will attempt to detect the shoe-based sensor as shown inFIG. 86a. Thus, after entering the Run mode, the controller18displays the “Walk To Connect” screen with a shoe-shaped icon. The shoe-shaped icon is in outline form and in a blinking mode to indicate that the sensor has not yet been detected. It is understood that certain shortcuts can be provided to start a run such as pressing the one of the input buttons for a predetermined amount of time, such as pressing and holding the end button for two seconds. The user walks so that the watch10detects the sensor. The controller starts a timeout timer countdown for a preset time, such as 15 seconds. If a sensor is not detected within the preset time, the controller displays a screen indicating “Sensor Not Found” wherein the user can re-initiate the detecting process. Once properly detected, a “Ready” screen is displayed wherein the shoe-shaped icon is darkened and not blinking to indicate that the sensor has been properly detected. A “Start/End” selection is also displayed. Once the user selects the “Start” option, the watch10begins recording the athletic performance include speed, distance and other parameters such as calories burned.

FIG. 86dillustrates another example of beginning a run with only a shoe-based sensor. As discussed above with respect toFIG. 86a, a user may select a run option and subsequently receive an instruction to walk or move in order to connect the shoe-based sensor to watch10. During the run, a user's pace and distance may be displayed. If the user interacts with the interface (e.g., by selecting an OK button, tapping on a touch-screen), the run monitor may be suspended or paused. A user may subsequently choose to continue or end the run. When the run is ended, an interface displaying “RUN ENDED” may be displayed and, after a predefined amount of time, a run summary be displayed.

FIG. 86eillustrates another example series of user interfaces for initiating and conducting a run using multiple sensors such as a shoe-based sensor and a heart rate sensor. Depending on the desired type of run or the preferred display information, the interfaces may display distance information, pace information, elapsed time information, calories, clock, heart rate, lap splits and the like. Combinations of information may be displayed using bi- or tri-level display configurations. For example, distance and/or pace information may be displayed along with an elapsed time.

The controller then displays a Run Layout screen such as shown in interface J ofFIG. 86b. The display screen may be in the form of a three-tiered display such as shown in interface J ofFIG. 86b. The Run Layout screen may include the pace per mile, total workout time, and total distance, which is constantly updated during the athletic performance. The user can also modify the Run Layout screen wherein the performance data is displayed in a two-tiered display. A desktop utility software application associated with the user interface provides these options for the user as explained in further detail below. The two-tiered display allows the user to select data as desired that is displayed in a larger font, such as only displaying total workout time and calories. The user can also configure the layout to include additional information such as calories burned, heart-rate beats-per-minute, or time of day.

FIG. 87discloses the screens the controller18displays when the user had previously linked heart rate monitor to the watch10. Once the Run mode is selected, the controller displays the “Walk to Connect” screen similar to the discussion above, but now with a shoe-shaped icon and a heart-shaped icon, corresponding to the heart rate monitor. The shoe-shaped icon and the heart-shaped icon are both in outline form and in blinking mode to indicate that the sensors have not yet been detected. The user walks so that the watch10detects the sensors. The controller starts a timeout timer countdown for a preset time, such as 15 seconds. If a sensor is not detected within the preset time, the controller displays a screen indicating “Sensor Not Found” wherein the user can re-initiate the detecting process. Once properly detected, a “Ready” screen is displayed wherein the shoe-shaped icon and heart-shaped icon are darkened and not blinking to indicate that the sensors have been properly detected. As further shown in theFIG. 86e, depending on the sensor detected first by the watch10, the shoe-shaped icon or the heart-shaped icon may be darkened while the other is still in outline form indicating that the watch10is detecting. A “Start/End” selection is also displayed with the “Ready” screen. Once the user selects the “Start” option, the watch10begins recording the athletic performance including speed, distance, heart rate and other parameters such as calories burned.

FIGS. 92aand 92bfurther show screens displayed if the sensors being used are low in battery power. A battery empty icon is shown within the sensor icon in such case. Thus, the battery empty icon is shown within the shoe-shaped icon or the heart-shaped icon. Alarms can also be displayed for low memory or full memory.

As the user continues in the athletic performance, the watch10constantly records and stores the data associated therewith. Performance data is also constantly displayed on the watch10. As discussed, the display56may be set in the three-tier mode or the two-tier mode. As shown in theFIGS. 86eand87, for instance, the controller may utilize labels associated with the data. For example, the label “PACE” may scroll across the top of the display and then the pace value (6′58″/ml) is constantly displayed. Such scrolling labels could also be used for the other metrics set to be displayed by the user. For example,FIG. 87show that the display screens can be set to show scrolling labels and values such as heart rate, calories, time and chronograph. The labels could also be turned off or configured to scroll periodically during the athletic performance. If the Laps function is turned off or not utilized during the athletic performance, the user can pause the performance by pressing an input button. Once paused as shown inFIG. 87, the controller provides a menu selection for the user to Continue or to End the workout. If End is selected, the Run Ended screen is displayed as shown inFIG. 87. The controller is also configured to provide a shortcut to end a workout by pressing and holding the end button52. This shortcut is provided when the user is in the IWO mode such as during a run.

As discussed above, the user has the option to utilize the Laps function by tapping the front side38, or crystal39of the watch10, which marks a lap providing additional functionality of the watch10. As shown inFIGS. 15 and 87, once the user taps the crystal39, the shock button54is activated marking a lap wherein a “Lap” screen is displayed. A “Lap2” screen is displayed and it is understood that Lap1, Lap2, Lap3screens and so on will be displayed based on the number of Laps marked by the user. The Lap screen is displayed in a reverse configuration wherein the background is darkened and the indicia shown in a “white” configuration (See also “Personal Record” screen inFIGS. 90aand 90b). Upon marking a lap, it is understood that the backlight is lit and the controller is configured to prevent any further laps from being marked for a set period of time such as 6 seconds. This time prevention protects against accidental taps. Once a lap is marked, the controller displays the Run Information Screen that shows performance data for that current lap. The backlight remains lit and the screen remains in a reversed darkened configuration with the indicia shown in “white” figures. As further shown, the pace, time (chronograph) and distance is displayed for a set amount of time, such as 5 seconds. The time and distance are shown as values for only that lap that has been marked and the pace displayed is the average pace over the lap interval.

After the predetermined time to display the lap performance data, the controller then displays the ongoing run data display screen. Thus, the pace, time and distance are again displayed. It is understood that the controller can be configured to display performance data relating to the total workout if desired wherein the overall average pace, total time and total distance is displayed while the user continues with the athletic performance. It is also understood, that the controller can be configured to display the current lap performance data wherein the average pace for the current lap, current lap time and current lap distance is displayed. A combination of total data and lap data can also be displayed based on user preferences. Other performance data can also be displayed as part of the Run data display screen such as heart rate, calories, time of day, and time (chronograph). The controller can be configured to display any combinations of these data metrics in the various locations as well as in total data or lap data. It is further understood that the user can continue to mark additional laps by tapping the crystal39and activating the shock button54. Data will continue to be displayed as discussed above. In one exemplary embodiment, the display shown inFIG. 87is particularly utilized when the LAPS function is set in the manual mode. In such case, after a first lap is marked by tapping the crystal39, the chronograph is displayed at the top row of the display. From then on, the larger center row displays the delta time, i.e., the lap time elapsed for the current lap. In addition, in the Laps function when using multiple sensors (foot sensor and heart rate sensor), the watch10captures data relating to chronograph, lap time, distance delta, average pace for that lap, average heart rate for that lap, and calorie delta but only displays pace delta, lap time and distance delta.

The user can pause recording of the athletic performance data by pressing the end button52. As shown, a Paused screen is displayed with a Continue and End menu selection. When paused, the title bar acts as a ticker cycling through the user's chosen metrics (PAUSED-CHRONO-DISTANCE-PACE-HEART RATE-CALORIE-TIME OF DAY). Thus, the PAUSED title is displayed and then moves from right to left on the display wherein the numerical chronograph value scrolls onto the display from right to left, then followed by the distance numerical value, and so on for the other chosen metrics. If the user selects Continue, the watch10will resume recording performance data as discussed above. If the user selects End, the Run Ended screen is displayed. It is understood that a shortcut to end a run can be provided wherein the user can press and hold the end button52while in the IWO mode which will also stop the recording of data and display the Run Ended screen. If certain Goals are reached or other messages are provided by the watch, such information may be displayed to the user as described in greater detail below (FIGS. 90aand 90b). After a predetermined amount of time such as 2 seconds, a summary of the performance data is then displayed for review by the user. In an exemplary embodiment, a label of the performance metric scrolls across the screen from right to left followed by the numerical value of the data. Five rows of data can be displayed although this can be changed to add or subtract certain data. Thus, in one exemplary embodiment, the Time label scrolls across and the total time is displayed. The Distance label scrolls across and the total distance is displayed. The Pace label scrolls across the screen and the average pace for the workout is displayed. The Heart Rate label scrolls across the screen and the average heart rate in beats per minute (BPM) is displayed. Finally, the Calories label scrolls across the screen and the total number of calories burned is displayed. It is understood that if the watch10detects no sensors for a certain amount of time, e.g., 25 minutes, the watch10will go into the paused state automatically and an audible alert can be sent via the speaker. If paused for an additional predetermined period of time, e.g., five minutes, after the auto-paused state, then the run will automatically be ended. If the user entered the paused state manually, then the run will be ended after a predetermined amount of time such as thirty minutes.

As shown inFIG. 88a, the user may have an athletic performance or workout with the heart sensor only and not a shoe based sensor. The user interface displays similar screens as described above utilizing both the shoe-based sensor and the heart rate sensor. The user initiates the Run mode wherein the watch detects the previously linked heart rate sensor as described above. As shown inFIG. 88a, the user interface displays the Ready screen once the heart rate sensor is detected wherein the heart icon is solid and not blinking while the shoe-based sensor remains in outline form. Once the user selects the Start menu selection, the watch10begins recording the performance data associated with the workout. In this instance, the user interface displays the Run Layout screen, which may be custom set by the user using the desktop utility application. For example, as shown inFIG. 88a, the controller can display calories, workout time, and heart rate (beats per minute—BPM) in the three-tier mode. As described above, the label scrolls across the display from right to left and then the value remains displayed. In another example, the user may set the Run Layout screen to show Time Of Day, workout time, and heart rate. Other screen layouts are also possible using the associated desktop utility software. The user performing a heart-rate only workout can also utilize the Laps function similarly as described above. As shown inFIG. 88a, the user can manually mark a lap by tapping the crystal39wherein a Lap1is marked and the backlight is illuminated. The user input (e.g., tapping the touch sensitive display) might only be interpreted as a lap marking when a user is currently performing an athletic activity and/or a particular interface (e.g., a workout monitoring interface) is displayed. After a predetermined amount of time, e.g., 1 second, the data on the Run Layout screen is again displayed as shown inFIG. 88a. The backlight may remain illuminated for a certain time. In this mode of operation, the Laps function captures and displays average heart rate, chronograph time and calories. The user can choose to capture and display other data as desired. The user can pause or end the workout, and it is understood that the Pause and Run Ended functions are similar as described above. Thus, when paused, the user interface displays data in ticker fashion wherein the label Paused scrolls across display, followed by the numerical values for chronograph, heart rate and calories scrolling across the display. Once the workout is ended, the performance data is displayed as described above wherein the label scrolls across the display followed by the numerical value. This can be done for the various performance metrics chosen to be displayed by the user such as workout time, heart rate and calories. After the performance data is displayed for a predetermined amount of time, the user interface returns to the Time Of Day screen.

FIG. 88billustrates another example series of interface for initiating and recording a workout and for allowing a user to manually mark laps during the run. For example, to mark a lap a user may tap a screen or a particular portion of the screen. Additionally, the interface may be locked from marking another lap for a predefined amount of time after the user has marked a lap. Such a lockout functionality may prevent accidental marking of laps (e.g., accidentally double tapping an interface).FIGS. 88cand 88dillustrate interfaces where lap time information may be displayed in a bottom position and a top position, respectively, of a display, e.g., of watch10. For example, a lap indicator might not be incremented or the incremented lap indicator might not be displayed until a threshold amount of time (e.g., 5 seconds, 2 seconds, 10 seconds, 1 minute, 5 minutes) has passed since receiving the user input marking the lap. This may be used to insure that accidental double tapping within a short amount of time is not interpreted as multiple lap markings Additionally, in response to receiving a lap marking (e.g., a user input through a touch sensitive display), an interface displaying a pace of immediately previous lap may be displayed. The pace display may be displayed until the threshold amount of time has elapsed, at which time a workout monitoring interface including a statistic other than pace (e.g., distance of a current lap) may be displayed. Alternatively, the interface may display the same information with the exception of the updated lap indicator.

As discussed above, with the Laps function, the user can select the Interval option to perform an interval-based athletic performance in the IWO mode. As shown inFIG. 89a, the user walks in order for the watch10to link with the shoe sensor and/or the heart rate sensor. If the interval program has a distance setting in the program, it will only apply to step/pedometer based workouts such as the shoe sensor. As further shown inFIG. 89a, if the interval program has a distance setting and the user is performing a heart rate only workout, then Laps/intervals will be temporarily disabled for that workout only. It is understood, however, that if the interval program has only a time setting, then the user can perform interval training with a heart-rate only workout. Regardless, the watch10links to the sensors being used and the Ready screen is displayed.

FIG. 89ashows further screen views that the user interface displays for an interval workout. For example, once a user commences the interval workout by pressing the select or end button52, the interval settings are displayed. Thus, as shown inFIG. 89a, the display indicates the user will run for 20 minutes. The display then indicates that the user will rest for 1 minute and 30 seconds. The user then commences the workout by pressing the end button52. As shown inFIG. 89a, the user selected the three-tiered display with the desktop utility. Thus, initially, the Run label is displayed at the top row, the elapsed time is displayed in the larger middle row and the distance is displayed in the bottom row. As shown inFIG. 89a, after a predetermined time, the Run label scrolls upwards wherein an interval countdown timer is displayed wherein the 20 minute run interval is counted down. It is further understood that in an interval workout, the delta time elapsed will be displayed in the larger middle row in subsequent laps/interval periods. Using the desktop utility, the user can specify that the chronograph time can be displayed in the top row, or toggle loop, at the end of the loop.

As further shown inFIG. 89a, when the rest interval is reached, the backlight is illuminated wherein the user interface displays the Rest screen along with the time specified. The time is shown counting down for a predetermined time wherein the user interface displays the Run layout screen. Thus, the Rest label is displayed at the top row, the further elapsed time is displayed in the larger middle row and, based on user preferences, the time of day is displayed. The Rest label scrolls upwards wherein the rest interval time is displayed while counting down. Once the next run interval is reached, the user interface displays the Run screen with the designated time as shown inFIG. 89aand showing the backlight illuminated. The designated Run time begins to countdown. After a predetermined amount of time, the Run layout screen again is displayed. The Run label is displayed in the top row wherein the label scrolls upwards wherein the next designated run time continues to countdown. Further elapsed time is shown in the larger middle row. The time of day is also displayed in the bottom row as designated by the user.

FIG. 89billustrates another example series of interval training interfaces. The run interfaces may display instructions indicating whether the user is to run or rest. Additionally, the run line of the display may scroll (e.g., horizontally) to display an entirety of a message. For example, if the text “RUN 19:56” does not fit within the display area at the same time, the text may scroll to the left or right (or vertically).FIG. 89cillustrates additional example interval training interfaces. As illustrated, when a user is to transition from a rest to run mode (or vice versa), the interface may be initially displayed in a different manner (e.g., a first 3 seconds or other predefined amount of time). For example, the background may be backlit or displayed in a first color. After the predefined amount of time, the background might no longer be backlit or displayed in a second color different from the first.

The user can end an athletic performance or run as described above wherein the user interface displays the run ended screen. The user interface further displays the summary information such as total workout time, total distance, pace, heart rate and calories. As shown in the figures, the user interface has the capability of displaying additional information to the user. This information can be in the form of in-work-out alarms or other messages to the user. Regarding the alarms, an audible sound is emitted and the backlight is illuminated for a predetermined time such as 5 seconds. In an exemplary embodiment, the alarms at not subject to timeouts wherein the user must press the end button to dismiss the alarm.

As shown inFIGS. 90a, 90c, 92aand 92b, after a run is ended, if the level of recorded performance data nears a memory capacity of the electronic module, the user interface displays the screen Low Memory as shown inFIG. 90a. As discussed, the user must select the OK option by pressing the end button to dismiss the alarm. In this instance, the user is prompted to upload recorded performance data to the remote site as discussed. This alarm can also be displayed when a user seeks to commence a workout.

As shown inFIG. 90a, the user interface may display a MEMORY FULL alarm may at certain instances. For example, this alarm may be displayed when a user attempts to initiate a run with no memory remaining. In that case, the user interface may display the Run/Enter screen, Time of Day screen or some other screen of the user interface. The MEMORY FULL alarm may also occur during an athletic performance. In such case, the alarm screen may not be immediately displayed at that moment (it is understood that the user would have seen the LOW MEMORY warning upon starting the workout and ignored it). The system may stop recording data except for the total length and duration of the run. When the run is complete, the user may see this alert as part of the end of run sequence.

As shown inFIG. 90a, the user interface may display a Low Battery alarm. This alarm may be displayed when the user initiates and ends a run with the battery level equal to or below the reserve threshold. The reserve threshold should allow the user to run for at least an hour in an exemplary embodiment.FIG. 90cillustrates other example low battery and low or full memory alarm messages.

FIG. 90adiscloses additional messages the user interface may display to the user. As previously discussed, athletic performance data is transferred between the electronic module and the remote site dedicated to storing and displaying the athletic performance data. Thus, certain data can be compared and stored in the electronic module to assist in displaying additional messages to the user. For example, as shown inFIG. 90a, the user interface can display personal records associated with the user. As previously described, the display can be reversed wherein the background of the display screen is darkened with the indicia shown in white lettering or perceptively different text. Thus, the electronic module is capable of storing the user's best personal times for certain categories and then comparing the current athletic performance data once the user ends an athletic performance or a run. If the user surpasses a previous time, the user interface can be configured to display a message to the user such as “PERSONAL RECORD” for a predetermined amount of time. The user interface may then display various different screens showing the user's personal data such as fastest mile with time data (FIG. 90a), fastest 5 k with time data, fastest 10 k with time data, or longest run with time data. Other personal record categories can also be displayed.FIG. 90billustrates example achievement messages for congratulating the user on the goal achieved (e.g., best time, longest run, best pace, etc.). For example, the interface may display a message such as “RECORD SMASHED!” or “CROWD GOES WILD!”

Additionally, there may be post workout alarms, as further shown inFIG. 90a. During the RUN ENDED screen, if alarms need to be displayed, a black pop-up may take over the screen growing from the center. If a goal was reached during the workout, the title screen “GOAL REACHED” is shown. If several goals were reached during the workout, the title screen “GOALS REACHED” uses the plural and is only shown once (not prior to each goal that is displayed). Goals such as, total distance, total workout times, pace, and calories burned may be displayed as reached and ahead of target. For example, as shown inFIG. 90a, goal messages may be displayed such as running 120 miles in 12 weeks; running 15 times in 4 weeks; burning 1800 calories in 8 weeks; having 5 runs under 7′35″ in one month; or 5000 miles reached. The user interface can also display a message to the user that another user has left the user a message wherein the user can review the message at the Remote Site. After all alarms are displayed, the black pop-up screen may retract itself and disappear. As soon as the pop-up screen disappears, the user is lead to the summary screen for that run.FIG. 90billustrates additional example goal messages.

As shown inFIG. 91a, the user interface may also display additional messages to the user. As discussed above when the user prepares to commence an athletic performance, the user navigates through the user interface wherein the user is instructed to so that the watch10can detect and connect to the appropriate sensor. It could occur that the watch does not detect a sensor. As shown inFIG. 91a, after the watch10searches or attempts to detect the sensor for a preset time, such as 15 seconds, and the watch10fails to detect a sensor, the user interface displays a NO SENSOR FOUND message. The user has the option of either linking a new sensor by selecting the LINK NEW option, or by exiting by selecting the EXIT option. If the user selects the LINK NEW command, the user will be instructed to walk to link and after a predetermined amount of time, the sensor may then be detected and an OK screen will then be displayed for 2 seconds. The controller will then display the READY screen and the user can proceed with the workout as previously described. If the user selects the EXIT command, the user interface will display some other screen such as the Time of Day screen.

During the sensor detect and connect process, it can be possible for the watch to sense multiple sensors such as when linking sensors while in close proximity to other athletes also wearing sensors (e.g., at the start of a race competition such as a 5 k, 10 k or marathon race). Thus, as shown inFIG. 91a, the watch10of the user may detect too many sensors. In this situation, the user interface displays a “TOO MANY SENSORS” message for a predetermined amount of time wherein then the user interface displays a message to “WALK AWAY” in order to resolve the sensor detection problems. If after a preset time, such as 15 seconds, the conflict is not resolved, the controller will exit back out to the RUN screen. If the conflict is resolved within the preset time, such as 15 seconds, then the controller will stop blinking the icon in question and go to the READY screen.

FIGS. 91band 91cillustrate additional example interfaces for linking new sensors. For example,FIG. 91billustrates interfaces for linking a new sensor when no sensor is initially connected andFIG. 91cillustrates interfaces for linking a new sensor when multiple sensors have been detected.

The user interface allows a user to review past athletic performances or runs. As discussed, the user can upload run data recorded by the module12to the Remote Site as well as download run data maintained on the Remote Site. As shown inFIG. 93a, in the out-of-workout-mode (OOWO), the user selects the LAST RUNS option using the side button. The user interface then displays the dates of the user's latest runs. The user can then select a particular date of run to review. The user interface then displays a pair of options, allowing the user to select “SUMMARY” or “LAPS.” If the user selects “SUMMARY” by pressing the end button, the user interface displays any or all of the following information: total workout time, total distance, pace, average heart-rate, and/or total calories burned. After a predetermined amount of time, the user interface may then return to the previous Summary/Laps/Exit screen. If the user selects the Laps option, the user interface displays the general elapsed times for each lap of the run previously selected. The user can then use the side button to scroll among the lap data and select a particular lap. As shown inFIG. 93a, additional information for the selected lap is displayed such as pace, elapsed time for the selected lap, and distance of the lap.FIG. 93billustrates another example series of interfaces through which a user may review information associated with the last run.

Once a user uploads athletic performance data to a remote location and the user selects the Last Run option, the user interface will display a message, “All Runs Uploaded” as shown inFIGS. 94 and 95. After a predetermined amount of time, the user interface displays the date of the user's last run. After a further predetermined amount of time, the user interface displays the summary data for the last run as described above. Thus, as shown inFIG. 94, the user interface displays the following information relating to the last run: total time, total distance, pace, average heart rate and calories burned.

As discussed, the watch10also has the Remote Site mode (FIG. 86b). As previously discussed, the electronic module12is removable from the wristband14and plugged into the user's personal computer or other device such as gym equipment. Athletic performance data recorded by the watch10during a run can then be uploaded to a Remote Site such as a site dedicated to the storage and display of athletic performance data.FIGS. 18 and 19-20disclose additional features regarding communication with the Remote Site. The Remote Site may display the athletic performance data in certain formats useful to the user. For example, the remote site may display a plurality of run data for the user in a bar graph format. In addition, the remote site may display run data in a line graph formatFIGS. 14 and 19). The Remote Site mode of the watch allows the user to download certain features of the Remote Site onto the watch10. Thus, the watch10is capable of displaying certain amounts of athletic performance data and in a format useful to the user.

As shown inFIG. 114, the user can scroll through the main menu using the side button and select the Remote Site option using the end button52. The user interface displays the Remote Site screen and the user can select enter using the end button52. The Remote Site mode provides a plurality of menu options to the user. As shown inFIG. 114, in an exemplary embodiment, the user interface provides the following menu options: Weekly Runs (abbreviated “WK RUNS” on the display); Goals, Totals, Records and Exit. It is understood that when the electronic module is plugged into the user's personal computer and connected to the remote site via, for example, the desktop utility, user athletic data previously recorded by the electronic module and uploaded to the remote site can be downloaded to the electronic module to be displayed to the user as discussed herein.

The user can select the Weekly Run option. As is shown inFIG. 114, the Weekly Run menu option displays a chart in the form of a bar graph representing the run data for the past week, e.g., seven data entries for Sunday through Saturday. It is understood the display can be customized wherein the seven display can start with a different day. The display could also be modified to display data for a lesser amount of days such as Monday through Friday. As further shown inFIG. 114, the tallest bar represents the longest run for the current week thus far. All other bars have a height relative to the tallest bar. If there is no run data for a day of the week, the corresponding bar will be a single pixel tall, even if that bar represents today. It is understood the data display can be animated building from left to right, wherein the first bar line is displayed, such as Sunday data, followed by Monday data and so on. The data is displayed at a rate allowing the user to read each day of data as its being displayed. As data is displayed for each day, an underscore follows each day. Once the data is displayed for the current day, the underscore remains under the current day of data. The “WK TOTAL” heading then scrolls on the display from left to right. The user can press the side button scrolling up and down to control the animation of the weekly display. Thus, the user can review data corresponding to a week of runs. It is understood that this weekly data is constantly updated as the user uploads data to the remote site as well as download data from the remote site. It is also understood that the weekly display of data can be built as data is recorded and stored on the watch10as the user progresses through the week run by run. As explained in greater detail below, the weekly data can also be displayed as part of the Time Of Day display to be described in greater detail below.

As shown inFIG. 115, the user may select Goals in the menu selections for the Remote Site mode. Once the user selects Goals, the user interface displays a further menu of different Goals including: Times, Distance, Faster, Calories and Exit. The user can set such goals relating to these metrics, for example, at the remote site wherein data related to such goals is downloaded to the electronic module from the remote site when the module is plugged into the user's computer and connected to the remote site. With reference toFIG. 115, the user had previously set a goal on the remote site to burn a certain # of calories in a certain # of days. Data related to this goal is downloaded to the electronic module in previous operations consistent with the previous description. It is understood that this data is updated upon successive uploads and downloads of information regarding the remote site. As shown inFIG. 115, the user selects Calories from the menu selections. In response to this selection, the user interface displays information relating to this goal such as current number of calories burned, a gauge member indicia and the amount of time that remains to reach the goal. Thus, a particular value for the goal selected is displayed at an upper portion of the display, such as “15640 CAL” (calories goal). Following the stated goal, a gauge member is shown in bar graph type format to indicate whether the user is “ahead” or “behind” the goal at this time. The gauge member may be displayed using a horizontal bar with two arrows or calipers, a lower caliper and a top caliper. The lower caliper may also have an upwardly extending line extending into the horizontal bar. The lower caliper indicates the target level of the goal as of the current day. The target level is where the user should be today in order to complete the goal on time. The top caliper (and the filled in portion of the bar) indicate the user's actual level as of today. The user interface also displays an indication as to how much time remains to complete the goal, e.g. “28 DAYS LEFT.” The user interface is further configured to display this goal information in animated form which provides suspense to the user and a current sense of accomplishment to further motivate the user to reach the goal. Accordingly, it is understood that in response to selecting the CALORIES selection goal, goal information is displayed to the user in animated form. First, the goal is displayed to the user such as, “Burn # calories in # wks/days.” This message scrolls off the display and the calorie data is displayed at the upper portion of the display counting up from 0 to, for example, 15640 calories. Simultaneously, an outline of the gauge member is displayed. The lower caliper and the top caliper move from left to right while the gauge member is darkened from left to right until the lower caliper and top caliper reach their final positions. An additional message is displayed at the lower portion of the display such as, “# Ahead/Behind Target.” This message scrolls off of the display and the additional message “28 DAYS LEFT” is displayed. The data shown inFIG. 115is displayed for a predetermined time such as 3 seconds wherein the display returns to the Remote Site menu. The user can repeat this animation sequence in order to see this additional information again. If no goals have been set by the user and the user selects the GOAL selection in Remote Site menu selection shown inFIG. 115, the user interface is configured to display a message to the user such as “SET GOALS AT REMOTE SITE.COM”. In addition, if the user has only set a single goal, after selecting the GOAL menu selection, the user interface proceeds directly to the animated goal data display thus skipping the additional goal menu shown. Goal information can also be displayed in the Time Of Day screen as described in greater detail below. In one or more examples, goal information may be displayed in the time of day screen when the user is not performing athletic activity.

The Remote Site mode further has the TOTALS feature that acts as activity meters or running odometers on the watch10. As shown inFIG. 116a, the TOTALS feature may display various metrics over a user-selected time. In an exemplary embodiment, the metrics may include, but not be limited to, total distance (in miles), e.g. total mileage run ever, total work-out time (in hours), e.g. total hours run, average pace, and total calories burned. The TOTALS data is displayed in response to selecting the TOTALS selection on the REMOTE SITE menu. The TOTALS data is synchronized with existing totals stored at the remote site. Accordingly, updated TOTALS data is downloaded onto the watch10when the electronic module is connected to the remote site via a computer. In an exemplary embodiment, the data is displayed in an animated fashion. Thus, the display configuration includes an odometer-type bar at a central location of the display, a metric value at a top portion of the display and a unit value at a bottom portion of the display. Thus, in response to selecting the TOTALS menu selection, and as shown inFIG. 116a, the controller displays “TOTAL DISTANCE” and “MILES” scrolling upwards and wherein the odometer member scrolls various numbers to the current total distance value, e.g. 1234.5 miles. This data is displayed for a predetermined amount of time wherein “TOTAL DISTANCE” and “MILES” scroll upwards off the display and wherein, as shown inFIG. 116a, the controller displays “TOTAL TIME” and “HOURS” scrolling upwards and wherein the odometer member scrolls various numbers to the current total time value, e.g. 123.4 hours. This data is displayed for a predetermined amount of time wherein “TOTAL TIME” and “HOURS” scroll upwards off the display and wherein, the controller displays “TOTAL AVG. PACE” and “PER MILE” scrolling upwards and wherein the odometer member scrolls various numbers to the current average pace value, e.g. 8′ 07″ per mile. This data is displayed for a predetermined amount of time wherein “TOTAL AVG. PACE” and “PER MILE” scroll upwards off the display and wherein the controller displays “TOTAL CALORIES” and “BURNED” scrolling upwards and wherein the odometer member scrolls various numbers to the current number of calories burned, e.g. 180043. This data is displayed for a predetermined amount of time wherein the controller then displays a summary screen of the total distance, total time, total average pace and total calories burned. The summary screen is displayed for a predetermined amount of time wherein the controller then displays the Remote Site menu selections and then proceeds to the Time Of Day screen. The display of the data in the described animated form provides a build-up of suspense for the user enhancing the user experience. It is understood that the controller is configured such that pressing the end button during the animation sequence halts the animation and displays the summary screen of data. Pressing the side button allows the user to proceed directly to the individual screens shown inFIG. 116a. The user may also configure the controller to display a selected metric continuously on the display following the animation of this additional information.

The Remote Site mode further has the RECORDS feature wherein the controller displays certain metrics corresponding to personal records of the user. This data is displayed in similar fashion s the Totals data referred to inFIG. 116a. In an exemplary embodiment, the RECORDS data displayed may include, but not be limited to, the user's: Fastest Mile, Fastest 5 k, Fastest 10 k and Longest Run. The RECORDS data is similar to the post workout alarms and motivational messages displayed to the user after a run is ended. The RECORDS data is displayed in response to selecting the RECORDS selection on the REMOTE SITE menu. The RECORDS data is synchronized with existing data stored at the remote site. Accordingly, updated RECORDS data is downloaded onto the watch10when the electronic module is connected to the remote site via a computer. In an exemplary embodiment, the data is displayed in an animated fashion similar to the animation described above regarding the TOTALS feature. Thus, the controller may display a “FASTEST MILE” heading along with a value, e.g. 6:52, for a predetermined amount of time. The controller then scrolls this data from the display and displays a “FASTEST 5K” heading along with a value and so forth for each record metric. At the conclusion of the RECORDS data, a RECORDS summary screen is displayed as shown inFIG. 116a, listing each record data for the user's fastest mile, fastest 5 k, fastest 10 k and longest run. This animation also provides a building suspense for the user.FIG. 116billustrates other example interfaces through which a user may view current workout records set. In one or more arrangements, if no longest distance, fastest mile or longest run record has been defined, the interface may display 0.0 for the longest distance or longest run. Additionally, the fastest mile may be displayed with no pace information.

As previously discussed, the watch10is capable of communicating with the Remote Site dedicated to athletic performance monitoring. The Remote Site may include a training aid that provides training programs for users to assist users in achieving certain goals. For example, as shown inFIG. 117a, a user may seek assistance in training for a 10 k race. The Remote Site receives certain data inputted from the user wherein the training aid then provides a set training program recommendations for how far the user should run each day and which days the user should rest etc. The training program typically has a certain duration, e.g., a certain number of days.

If the user sets a training program on the Remote Site, the program parameters are downloaded to the watch10consistent with the description above. The user can access the training program on the watch via the Remote Site menu and under “WK RUNS.” As further shown inFIG. 117a, the controller is configured to display the training program parameters for the current week. In an exemplary embodiment, the parameters are displayed in animated fashion similar to the descriptions above regarding the weekly runs description but with some differences. The training program data is represented by bar members wherein empty bars represent runs to be completed and solid bars represent runs already completed. The tallest bar represents the user's longest run for the current week thus far or the user's longest target run, whichever is greater. All other bars have a height relative to the tallest bar. If there is no run data for a day of the week, the corresponding bar will be a single pixel tall, even if that bar represents the current day. In addition, the weekly display is arranged to that the current day is always in the center position. Thus, the weekly display shows the training schedule for three days prior to the current day and three days following the current day.

In response to the user selecting “WK RUNS” on the remote site menu, the animated display of data commences. As shown inFIG. 117a, the first screen shows the entire training week with empty bars instantaneously (no animation) along with the title, e.g. “10K COACH.” As shown inFIG. 117a, the animation builds from left to right providing data for each day of the week.FIG. 117ashows the animation for the first day, e.g., Saturday wherein a solid cursor is positioned under the Saturday heading. The day and target mileage first scrolls up and onto the display while flashing (on/off) the empty target bar. Certain training days may have notes from the training program wherein the note is scrolled at a readable pace across the screen. For example,FIG. 117ashows that the Saturday 3.5 mile run was to be completed “ON A HILLY ROUTE.” The heading “YOU” is then displayed along with the user's actual run mileage for that day, e.g. 4.0 miles. The run bar is then darkened.FIG. 117ashows the remaining days for the training program. The data for the next day is displayed wherein the cursor moves to the Sunday heading wherein the user was to run 4.0 miles on Sunday. The “YOU” heading is displayed along with 0.0 miles indicating the user did not run on Sunday. The target bar remains empty. The Monday run data is then displayed wherein the user was to run 2.5 miles. The user did not run on Monday and the target bar remains empty. The run data for the current day, e.g., Tuesday is then displayed wherein the user was to run 5.0 miles. The data recorded indicates that the user ran 1.3 miles and the target bar is partially darkened in proportionate fashion. The target bars for the future days will remain empty by definition and will not require the “YOU” headings. As shown inFIG. 117, the training program indicates that the user is to rest on Wednesday, run 3.0 miles on Thursday and rest on Friday. The final training program data is then displayed as shown inFIG. 117awith the darkened/empty target bars along with an indication that the current day represents Day 119 of the 120 day training program. Pressing the end button during the animation takes the user to the final screen shown inFIG. 117a. The user can also control the animation using the side button wherein the user can interactively move the blinking cursor to any desired day. The run/target bars do not animate in that case but the title text rolls up and down for a predetermined time showing target mileage and actual mileage as appropriate.

FIG. 117bdisclose additional features of the user interface. These features may be incorporated specifically when the user has implemented a training schedule via the Remote Site as describe above, but can also be utilized with the user in general operation. In one or more arrangements, the training schedule may be defined based on or correspond to a defined goal. For example, if a user sets a goal to run 10 miles a week, a training schedule may include sub-goals of running 2 miles a day for 5 days of a single week. One feature may be in the form of two part messaging utilizing an input from the user. For example, the user interface (or “the coach”) each day at some arbitrary time, may check the watch data to determine how many days have passed since the user last ran or exercised. If after a certain number of days set by the user interface there has been no activity by the user, the user interface may provide a message to the user. The days set might be three days although a different number can be set. In another example, the user interface or device (e.g., watch10) may determine whether the user has completed a daily goal or is on track to complete an overall goal. Thus, if the user has only run 4 miles and there are only 3 days left until a week from the first run expires, the user interface or coach may provide a message to the user encouraging or reminding the user of his sub-goals and the remaining time allotted for completing the overall goal. Alternatively or additionally, a reminder or encouraging message may be displayed upon determining that the user is not on track to complete the goal (e.g., if the user is only average 1 miles a day over the last 4 days and the user's overall goal is to run 10 miles in a week).

As shownFIG. 117b, the watch may have a Time Of Day display. If the user interface detects that the user has not run in three days, a pop up message may be displayed, “Are we running soon?” Also displayed is a desired answer such as “Yes”. When the user selects “Yes” using the end button52, a response message is displayed to the user such as “Looking Forward To It.” After a predetermined amount of time, the display returns to the Time Of Day display set by the user. If the user does not answer the first message after a certain amount of time, such as midnight of that day, the message is dismissed. Other two-part messages can also be displayed such as “I feel like running today.” If acknowledged by the user by selecting a “Yes,” the user interface can display a “Can't Wait” message. Other messages can also be displayed. These messages can be set at the Remote Site and further be changed/modified over time to regularly provide new messages. Such messages provide additional motivation to the user to exercise and offer the impression that the activity monitoring device is responding directly and personally to the user's answer. These messages may also provide the impression that the device is able to offer more humanistic responses rather than simply electronic, machine feedback. The frequency of the messages can also be set via the Remote Site or user interface etc. A set of messages can be provided for each month wherein a different message is provided at certain times during the month. Messages can be altered for the next month.FIG. 117bfurther shows a two-part message that can be used specifically when the user has a training program implemented. The Time Of Day screen may be displayed with the Coach information displayed as described herein. The user interface may provide messages that correspond to the user's training program. For example, the user interface may display a message “Let's Run 3.5 MI (miles) today.” When the user acknowledges the “Yes” option, the user interface responds with the second part of the message, “Looking Forward To It.” After a predetermined amount of time, the user interface returns to the Time Of Day screen. If the training program has a rest day, no pop-up messages are displayed. If there is a note attached to a certain day of the training program, the note can be incorporated into the two-part message. Again, the messages can be modified or changed at the Remote Site. Such messaging provides additional motivation to the user and a sense of the watch operating in real-time with the Remote Site.FIG. 113illustrates other example coaching pop up interfaces for prompting the user to perform another workout.

As previously discussed, the watch10has a Time of Day (T.O.D.) screen that can be set by the user utilizing the desktop utility software. In one exemplary embodiment as shown inFIG. 107a, the Time Of Day screen is configured to show the time of day more prominently proximate a top portion of the display as well as the date and day of the week proximate a bottom portion of the display. The user can also set the Time Of Day screen in different “dashboard” configurations to show variations of athletic performance data such as weekly runs, goals, totals, records and coaching information. These various Time Of Day screens can be set using the desktop utility software as desired by the user.

As shown inFIGS. 108aand 108b, the Time Of Day Screen can be set to show the current time of day at a top portion of the display as well as the date and day of the week at a central portion of the display. Finally, indicia representing the user's weekly run data can be displayed at a bottom portion of the display. In an exemplary embodiment, the indicia is in the form of vertical bars. The tallest bar represents your longest run for the current week thus far. All other bars have a height relative to the tallest bar. If there is no run data for a day of the week, the corresponding bar will be single pixel tall, even if that bar represents the current day.

The Time Of Day screen utilizing weekly runs can also utilize animation as described above. In this configuration, the user can press the end button to commence the animation which builds from left to right in an exemplary embodiment. The animation starts with the user's preferred week-start-date (e.g., Sunday or Monday as set at the Remote Site). Thus, as the first bar extends upwards at the left of the display, the day is displayed, e.g., “MO” for Monday, with the mileage value adjacent thereto. This data is displayed for predetermined time allowing the user to readily read the data. A cursor is positioned below the first bar. Once displayed for the suitable time, the cursor moves to the right wherein the next bar extends upwards, and the day is displayed, e.g. “TU” for Tuesday, with the mileage value adjacent thereto for that day. This sequence continues for each day of the week. At the conclusion of the seven days, a weekly total (“WK TOTAL”) heading scrolls from right to left at the central portion of the display followed by the total mileage value for the week of runs. This heading and weekly total value scrolls off the display and the day and date is again displayed. The bars remain on the display wherein the Time Of Day with weekly runs display is shown on the watch10as shown inFIGS. 107aand 107b. Additionally or alternatively, a run information display line (e.g., located below the time of day) may display the day total, a week total, a date and the like as shown inFIG. 107b. For example, the interface may automatically scroll through the various information. Alternatively, the user may toggle the workout information line to select the desired information. If the user fails to record a run for an entire week, the Time Of Day screen with weekly runs is slightly altered (FIGS. 108aand 108b). The animation as described above still occurs wherein the cursor moves along the display from left to right wherein a single bar is shown for each day while each day mileage total is shown as “0” including the weekly total. Rather than continuing to show a blank space for the seven single bars, the month, day, year and day are displayed as shown inFIGS. 108aand108b.

FIG. 109disclose a dashboard configuration having a Time Of Day screen with Goals information. As discussed above, the user can set goals using the Remote Site wherein the goals data can be shown in animated form on the Time Of Day screen. When Goals is the selected dashboard view utilizing the desktop utility, goals are displayed on the display in animated form as shown inFIG. 109. For example, a goal is displayed to burn 18000 calories in twelve weeks. The gauge member is shown and darkened along with the moving calipers as described above. “Ahead/Behind” text also is scrolled across the display, e.g., “2032 Ahead Of Target. Once the goal information is displayed, the day, date and month is displayed beneath the time of day. The user may set multiple goals at the Remote Site. In this dashboard configuration, all user goals are displayed in sequence. The goals that are expiring soonest are shown last (e.g., order is from least urgent to most urgent so that the most urgent goal remains showing at the end of the animation). Each goal animation ends with the current date rolling down into place, and displayed for predetermined amount of time such as 3 seconds before the next goal sequence is started. As with other dashboard views, pressing the end button, jumps to the end of the current animation sequence. In the case of multiple goals, e.g. three active goals, pressing the end button would jump to the next goal animation, if a goal animation was already in animated sequence. If the sequence is in the last goal, the display proceeds to the last screen as shown inFIG. 109. Specifically, the animation jumps to the moment just before the day, date and month rolls down. If the user presses the end button after all animation sequences are complete, the full goal animations are restarted (e.g., just as if the user left the Time Of Day screen and returned to the screen).

In one exemplary embodiment, the user can set four different goals on the Remote Site. The user can set one goal per type as described above. For example, the user can set one calorie burn goal, one run more often goal, one run faster goal and one run further goal. Each goal has an expiration date. If no goals are set, or all goals are expired, a default Time Of Day screen can be shown. The Time Of Day plus Goals dashboard display is still maintained as the user's preference in case the user subsequently sets new goals at the Remote Site.

FIG. 110disclose a dashboard configuration having a Time Of Day screen with Totals information. As discussed above, the user can show Totals information at the Remote Site menu. As shown inFIG. 110, the odometer member is displayed wherein numbers scroll therein until total values are shown for total hours, average pace, total calories, total miles. The last Total metric displayed remains displayed in the Time Of Day screen as shown inFIG. 110. Thus, the Totals metrics animate by rolling like odometers in the odometer member, one after each other. This animation is similar to the animation as described above regarding the Remote Site menu. In this dashboard configuration, however, the distance metric is the last metric to be displayed so that the distance metric is the metric that remains visible. Pressing the end button during the animation jumps the animation to the last screen showing the time of day, date and total distance metric. If the animation was complete, the animation is replayed.

It is further understood that user can select a dashboard configuration having a Time Of Day screen with Records information as shown inFIG. 111. This data is displayed in animated form similar to the Totals information described above, except showing the user's personal records as the metrics. The following four records are saved from the user's best runs and displayed: Fastest Mile, Fastest 5 k, Fastest 10 k and Longest Run. To leave the final screen in a good final state, the heading “LONGEST” will scroll further down below the odometer member (replacing “RUN”) simultaneously as the date rolls down into the display.

FIG. 112disclose a dashboard configuration having a Time Of Day screen with a variant of weekly runs triggered by the user having an active training program set on the Remote Site as described above. Generally, this display is the same as the training program view, or “COACH” mode as described above, but smaller and without Days of Week labels. Accordingly, additional specific description of the data display and animation will not be repeated as the prior description applies to this particular Time Of Day dashboard configuration. As shown inFIG. 112, the Time Of Day with coaching/training information includes the current time, day, date, month as well as the weekly run data utilizing run/target run bars. Once a user commences animation, the “10K COACH” scrolls up on the display with the run bars. As shown inFIG. 112, the training program indicated the user was to run 4.0 miles on Friday wherein the user ran 5.3 miles. The entire run bar is darkened and an additional bar segment is placed over the Friday run bar. The user did not run on Saturday and Sunday, but ran a certain distance on the current day, Monday. The data further indicates that the user is to rest on Tuesday (single pixel run bar), run 4.2 miles on Wednesday, and rest on Thursday (single pixel run bar). An additional screen is displayed showing the complete run bars and indicating that the user is at Day 78 of the 90 day training program. Once displayed for a predetermined amount of time, the Time Of Day screen shows the current time, day, day, month and the run/target run bars.

As appreciated fromFIG. 86b, the controller and user interface are configured such that additional or extendable features can be added to the watch as such features become available. Thus, the menu selections on the watch10can be expanded to provide additional headings and functionality for the new features. For example, additional features can be provided to the Remote Site or the desktop utility. Once the electronic module12is connected to the user's computer or to the Remote Site via the user's computer, the additional features can be downloaded to the electronic module12.

Additional features can also be provided with the user interface of the watch10. Such features could be considered extendable features added to the watch10over a period of time.

FIGS. 104a-104cdisclose a “demo mode” for the watch10. This mode can be utilized to show the full experience of the watch10for prospective purchasers without the need to link to actual shoe-mounted sensors, heart rate monitors, or other sensors. In an exemplary embodiment, the user presses and holds the end button for an extended predetermined amount of time while on the RUN screen as shown. While in the demo mode, the heading “DEMO” shows on the Run screen and an item is added to the top of the Settings menu to allow a visible way to turn “DEMO OFF.” Additionally, pressing and holding the end button for a predetermined time while on the RUN screen toggles the demo mode off wherein the Time Of Day data with any dashboard configuration is animated on the display. In the demo mode, the user can toggle through different menu items wherein the watch10will display fake data showing the user the operability of the watch10.FIGS. 104band 104cillustrate demonstration interfaces for a run including congratulatory messages, ca Time of Day mode, a last run interface and a records mode.

FIG. 105show that the user interface can incorporate a stopwatch mode. Using the various inputs on the watch10, the watch10can function as a stopwatch. Laps can be marked and the stopwatch paused as desired.

The user interface of the watch10provides significant functionality to the user thus at times requiring several menu items. In certain circumstances, the number of menu items can be greater than the capacity of the display wherein a user is required the use the side button to scroll the plurality of menu items along the screen. The controller can be configured to slow down the scrolling of the menu selections as the last menu item is to be displayed prior to the menu proceeding to the first menu item. A audible signal can also be provided at this time. Such features provide a tactile feel, or speed bump, for the user indicating that the start or end of the menu is approaching. With this feature, the chance that a user will accidently scroll past the desired menu item is minimized. For example, the tactile feel may include vibration of the device. The vibration may get stronger or faster as a user or interface gets closer to the start or end of the menu. In other examples, combinations of audio and tactile feedback may be provided. Such indicators may also be provided to identify lap, mile or other distance markers, pace thresholds, heart rate thresholds, time thresholds and the like. Accordingly, tactile feedback such as vibration may indicate to the user he or she is approaching a mile marker. In another example, a user may be audibly alerted or be provided with tactile feedback indicating that his or her pace is reaching a predefined point.

The watch10of the present invention is also provided with a desktop utility software application. The desktop utility typically resides on the user's computer and interfaces between the electronic module12and the remote site. It is understood that the user can customize functions on the watch10via the desktop utility. For example, certain programs may reside on the desktop utility such as Personal Bests data, a Marathon training program or Interval Training programs. These programs could be moved to reside on the watch10. Similarly, programs residing on the watch10could also be moved to the desktop utility. The order of display of functions on the watch10could also be modified by the user utilizing the desktop utility. Such modifications are implemented once the user connects the electronic module12to the user's computer where the desktop utility resides.

As shown inFIG. 106, the user interface can also be configured for user-selectable rotation. Thus, data can be displayed in general vertical fashion. Data can also be displayed in a 90 degree rotated configuration, either clockwise or counterclockwise. In an exemplary embodiment, the user interface can be configured such that the user-selectable rotation is only active on run/timing screens. WhileFIG. 106show the rotations in a Run screen in two-tier format, the rotation feature can also apply in the three-tier format described above. The user can set this feature using the desktop utility software.

The user interface can also be configured with additional features as shown inFIGS. 118-125. The user interface can be configured such that user wearing the watch can communicate with another user wearing the watch. For example, a first runner may see another second runner numerous times as both runners often run the same route at the same time. If each runner is wearing the watch, the runners can place the watches in close proximity such as when shaking hands (FIG. 118), wherein the user interface provides a message of “Add Buddy” (FIG. 119). The other user can accept wherein the runners are now linked.FIG. 120illustrates another example manner in which runners' devices may be linked. For example, the users may place their arms (on which the devices are worn) in proximity to one another, at which time a prompt may be displayed asking each user whether to accept a friend or buddy request (as shown inFIG. 121). Friends and buddies may further be added through a remote network site using a computing device or watch10as illustrated inFIG. 122. Accordingly, a user's device and a buddy's device might not need to be in proximity to one another to add the friend.

Each runner may have a list of other persons they are linked to. Further messaging capabilities are possible such as by using the Remote Site. For example, one runner can leave a message for another runner such as via the Remote Site. The message may be conditioned such that the runner receiving the message must meet a certain metric before being notified of the message. For example, a first runner may send a message to a second runner in the form of a motivational message once the second runner achieves a certain goal, such as running a certain amount of miles. Such message is sent to the second runner via the Remote Site and downloaded to the watch of the second runner when the second runner is connected to the Remote Site. The message, however, is hidden on the watch and does not appear until the watch records data and senses that the metric is met. Thus, once the second runner runs a certain distance, a message appears on the display of the watch worn by the second runner, such as “You Just Got A Carrot From Jill” (FIG. 123). The message may be referred to as a carrot and a corresponding carrot icon can be utilized on the watch display or on the Remote Site display. The user may further be provided with instructions to connect to a site in order to view the message (FIG. 124). A further message can be displayed to the second user on the watch. When the second user connects the watch to the computer and connects to the Remote Site, the message appears such as shown inFIG. 125. For example, the message may read “WELL DONE, KEEP ROCKIN' IT!!!” As previously discussed, the user interface can receive training programs from the Remote Site. Such training programs can include an actual race day program such as for a marathon, 10K, 5K etc. The race day program can convey to the user appropriate pace levels to maintain during the race to achieve a finish time as set by the user. The user interface can also be configured to provide shortcuts for certain functions. For example, depressing and holding one of or a combination of the buttons can automatically exit a current menu and return the user to the Time Of Day screen or other menu screen. Another button or combination can automatically take the user to the screen for commencing a run.

As discussed, certain shortcuts can be provided with the user interface such as pressing certain buttons for a predetermined amount of time to provide a certain function. Pressing certain buttons for a predetermined amount of time can also provide an expedited exit from the menu selections in the various menus of the user interface. Also, the user interface can monitor information regarding, for example goal information. If the user interface determines the user is close to a goal, the user interface may provide an additional message to the user. Such message may be designed to give the user further motivation in reaching the goal. As such information may be maintained in the Remote Site and downloaded to the watch periodically when the user connects the module12to the Remote Site via the computer, such features give the user a sense of real time functioning of the watch10.

When connected to the Remote Site (via the computer), the watch10periodically polls the Remote Site to determine whether the user has changed anything relevant to the watch (i.e., has the user made any changes through the Remote Site that need to be downloaded to the watch10such as the various metrics, parameters and features discussed). If the Remote Site indicates changes have been made, the watch10will then request the changes from the Remote Site which will then send the updates or changes to the watch10. As the user begins the log off process or seeks to disconnect the watch from the computer that connects it to the Remote Site, systems and methods according to at least some examples of this invention may prompt the user to wait until all updates have been received or to wait until the watch has a final chance to check for updates (so that any last minute changes are not lost). Alternatively, if the user abruptly terminates the watch's connection with the Remote Site (or the connection is lost in some other manner), any last minute changes that were not updated at the watch may be stored for the next connection session, if desired. In connecting to the Remote Site, the Remote Site can be configured to show examples of the watch display screens as customized by the user such as by the desktop utility. Thus, a user can see on the computer what the watch display will look like. It is further understood that the Remote Site can receive connection and data from multiple devices such as the watch10, other athletic performance monitoring devices include those manufactured by competitor entities or music devices. The Remote Site is configured with the ability to distinguish among such devices. It is further understood that the watch10is used to monitor athletic performance data where an exemplary embodiments includes run data. Other data can also be recorded and monitored by the watch10including data generated in a gym setting such as a treadmill or other gym equipment including stair climbers, elliptical machines, rowing machines, bike machines. Other types of data can also be included such as heart rate, biking data or other physiological data. Communication by the watch10with the computer and/or Remote Site (or other network connections) can take other forms such as other USB connections, radio, cellular, 3G, other wireless connections or other general connection systems. The various user interface features can be implemented on any type of portable device described herein.

FIG. 126illustrates run reminder interfaces in which a user may be reminded of an upcoming workout or to schedule a workout if none have been planned. For example, the user may be prompted to confirm that the user will be performing a workout soon. If the user does confirm the an upcoming workout, the interface may display an encouraging message such as “LOOKING FORWARD TO IT.” The interface may then return to a time of day display.

FIGS. 131 and 132illustrate zoning principles for defining a manner in which information is displayed on a display such as that of watch10. For example, inFIG. 131, the information may be positioned and sized differently if the time is 4 digits instead of 3. InFIG. 132, a layout may be defined based on the number of items to be displayed. For example, in a 4 item layout, the elapsed time, distance, average pace and calories may be displayed with 5 pixels between lines. In another example, a 5 item layout may include elapsed time, distance, average pace, calories calibration, average heart rate and/or lap times. Instead of 5 pixels between each line as in a 4 item layout, there might only be 3 pixels between lines.FIG. 133illustrates example 5 item layout interfaces.

FIGS. 134-138illustrate display configurations for different type of information including pace information, elapsed time, heart rate, calories burned and distance. InFIG. 134, pace information may be displayed in different font sizes depending on the pace. For example, if the pace is less then 10 minutes, the font may be displayed in a first font size. Ff the pace is between 10 minutes and 19 minutes and 59 seconds, the pace may be displayed in a second font size (e.g., a condensed font size).

FIGS. 139aand 139billustrate example interfaces for displaying a time of day. The size and position of the time of day may differ depending on whether the time of day is displayed in a top portion or a bottom portion.

FIG. 140illustrates example user interfaces that displays a time of day in addition to a goal. Goals may include burning a certain number of calories, running farther than a previous distance, running faster or running with greater frequency. The display may be organized or configured using different fonts, positions and font sizes depending on the amount of space needed (e.g., an amount of text that needs to be displayed).

According to one or more arrangements, an amount of time for which a backlight remain active may be configured automatically and/or dynamically depending on the function or process that is being performed. For example, if a user is viewing workout data, the backlight may remain active for a longer period of time (e.g., 15 or 30 seconds) than a default backlight period (e.g., 5 seconds). By dynamically adjusting the backlight period based on a function being performed, a user may be able to complete the desired function or process without having the backlight turn off in the middle of completing the desired function or process. If a backlight period is not defined for a particular function or process, the device (e.g., watch10) may use the default backlight period. In one example, the backlight active time period may correspond to an amount of time allotted for receiving user input, wherein reception of user input activates or renews the time period for backlighting. The device and/or systems thereof may further learn time periods based on a user's previous interactions. For example, if a user views a workout statistic interface, on average, for 10 seconds (e.g., as measured by a time a user initiates the interface and a time the user either turns off backlighting or switches to another interface), the active backlighting time period for that interface may be defined as 10 seconds.

Data tracked, stored, used and/or monitored by watch10may include geographic location-based sensor information. For example, watch10may include or be linked to a GPS device that provides the current location of watch10. This information may be used to calculate a pace, a current distance run, an elevation, location comparison information for two or more users, start/end of laps and the like.

The various embodiments of the device of the present invention provides enhanced functionality in recording and monitoring athletic performance data. Data can regularly be uploaded to the computer as well as the Remote Site as described herein. In addition, data from the Remote Site can be downloaded to the device wherein the user can take the Remote Site with the user. The housing provides for a robust wearable watch. The housing structure can absorb the shocks and impacts of running such that the controller can operate smoothly. Additionally, the housing structure prevents debris, water, perspiration or other moisture from ingress into the interior of the housing where it could contaminate the controller and adversely affect operability. In one exemplary embodiment, the housing is water-resistant to approximately five atmospheres of pressure. The user interface configuration provides simple and easy operation of the watch, particularly the tri-axis configuration. The user can easily perform functions such as using the shock sensor and, in particular, mark laps by tapping the front face or crystal of the device. With such an easy operation, the user can focus on the athletic performance rather than to locate a proper user input on the watch. The user interface provides many features as described herein to provide enhanced operability of the device.