Patent Description:
Cyclic motion can be very efficient power output for transportation and/or movement and is used in bicycles, tricycles, and other land-based vehicles; pedal boats and other water vehicles; and ultralight aircraft, microlight aircraft, and other aerial vehicles. Similarly, the biomechanics of the cyclic motion may produce lower impact on a user, reducing the risk of joint injury, skeletal injury, muscle injury, or combinations thereof. In contrast to other exercises such as running, cyclic motion may avoid repeated impacts on the body. Therefore, cyclic motion is a common exercise technique for fitness and/or rehabilitation. For example, elliptical running machines, stationary bicycles, handcycles, and other cyclic and/or rotary motion machines may provide resistance training or endurance training with little or no impacts upon the user's body.

<CIT> discloses a stationary exercise bicycle which has translationally adjustable handlebar and seat positions to provide optimum positioning for different users. <CIT> discloses an exercise simulator including handlebars attached by a stem to a steering shaft. The steering shaft is rotatable about it's longitudinal axis and is biased in a central position by springs.

In some embodiments, an exercise device includes a frame, handlebars supported by the frame, and a computing device. The handlebars include a yoke that is movable relative to the frame, a biasing element positioned between the yoke and the frame, and a sensor configured to measure a movement of the yoke.

The exercise device includes a frame, handlebars supported by the frame, a drivetrain supported by the frame, and a computing device. The handlebars include a yoke that is rotatably movable relative to the frame, a biasing element positioned between the yoke and the frame, and a sensor configured to measure a movement of the yoke. The drivetrain includes pedals rotatable around a pedal axis and a drivetrain sensor positioned in the drivetrain to measure movement of the pedals. The computing device is in data communication with the handlebar sensor and the drivetrain sensor.

In some embodiments, an exercise device includes a frame, handlebars supported by the frame, a drivetrain supported by the frame, a display, and a computing device. The handlebars include a yoke that is rotatably movable relative to the frame, a biasing element positioned between the yoke and the frame, and a sensor configured to measure a movement of the yoke. The drivetrain includes pedals rotatable around a pedal axis and a drivetrain sensor positioned in the drivetrain to measure movement of the pedals. The computing device is in data communication with the handlebar sensor and the drivetrain sensor, and in data communication with the display. The computing device is configured to receive directional inputs from the drivetrain sensor and the handlebar sensor and to generate visual information based partially upon the directional inputs, the visual information being displayed on the display.

In order to describe the manner in which the above-recited and other features of the disclosure can be obtained, a more particular description will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which are illustrated in the appended drawings. For better understanding, the like elements have been designated by like reference numbers throughout the various accompanying figures. While some of the drawings may be schematic or exaggerated representations of concepts, at least some of the drawings may be drawn to scale. Understanding that the drawings depict some example embodiments, the embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:.

In some embodiments of an interactive exercise device according to the present disclosure, an exercise device may allow a user to input a plurality of directional inputs to an interactive software. As described herein, an exercise device may receive directional inputs to change images displayed on a display in communication with the exercise device to provide feedback and entertainment to a user during exercise.

<FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exercise bicycle <NUM>, according to the present disclosure. The exercise bicycle <NUM> may include a frame <NUM> that supports a drivetrain <NUM> and at least one wheel <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may further support a seat <NUM> for a user to sit upon, handlebars <NUM> for a user to grip, one or more displays <NUM>, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the display <NUM> is supported by the frame <NUM>. In other embodiments, the display <NUM> is separate from the frame <NUM>, such as a wall-mounted display. In yet other embodiments, the display <NUM> is a head-mounted display (HMD) worn by the user, such as a virtual reality, mixed reality, or augmented reality HMD. In further embodiments, a combination of displays <NUM> may be used. For example, one or more of a display <NUM> that is supported by the frame <NUM>, a display <NUM> that is separate from the frame <NUM>, and a HMD may be used.

In some embodiments, an exercise bicycle <NUM> may use one or more displays <NUM> to display feedback or other data regarding the operation of the exercise bicycle <NUM>. In some embodiments, the drivetrain <NUM> and/or handlebars <NUM> may be in data communication with the display <NUM> (via a computing device <NUM>) such that the display <NUM> presents real-time information or feedback collected from one or more sensors on the drivetrain <NUM> and/or handlebars <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may present information to the user regarding cadence, wattage, simulated distance, duration, simulated speed, resistance, incline, heart rate, respiratory rate, other measured or calculated data, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the display <NUM> may present use instructions to a user, such as workout instructions for predetermined workout regimens (stored locally or accessed via a network); live workout regimens, such as live workouts broadcast via a network connection; or simulated bicycle rides, such as replicated stages of real-world bicycle races. In yet other examples, the display <NUM> may present one or more entertainment options to a user during usage of the exercise bicycle <NUM>.

The display <NUM> may display locally stored videos and/or audio, video and/or audio streamed via a network connection, video and/or audio received from a connected device (such as a smartphone, laptop, or other computing device connected to the display <NUM>), dynamically generated images using a connected or integrated device, or other entertainment sources. In other embodiments, an exercise bicycle <NUM> may lack a display <NUM> on the exercise bicycle, and the exercise bicycle <NUM> may provide information to an external or peripheral display or computing device. For example, the exercise bicycle <NUM> may communicate with one or more of a smartphone, wearable device, tablet computer, laptop, or other electronic device to allow a user to log their exercise information.

The exercise bicycle <NUM> may have a computing device <NUM> in data communication with one or more components of the exercise bicycle <NUM>. For example, the computing device <NUM> may allow the exercise bicycle <NUM> to collect information from the drivetrain <NUM> and display such information in real-time. In other examples, the computing device <NUM> may send a command to activate one or more components of the frame <NUM> and/or drivetrain <NUM> to alter the behavior of the exercise bicycle <NUM>. For example, the frame <NUM> may move to simulate an incline or decline displayed on the display <NUM> during a training session by tilting the frame <NUM> with a tilt motor <NUM>. Similarly, the drivetrain <NUM> may change to alter resistance, gear, or other characteristics to simulate different experiences for a user. The drivetrain <NUM> may increase resistance to simulate climbing a hill, riding through sand or mud, and/or another experience that requires greater energy input from the user, and/or the drivetrain <NUM> may change gear (e.g., physically or "virtually") and the distance calculated by the computing device <NUM> may reflect the selected gear.

In some embodiments, the handlebars <NUM> are movable relative to the frame <NUM>. The user may move the handlebars <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM> to provide directional inputs to the computing device <NUM>. For example, the display <NUM> may present images to the user of a dynamically-generated virtual or mixed environment, such as used in a computer game. The images of the virtual environment may change as the user provides directional inputs via the drivetrain <NUM> (e.g., by pedaling) and/or the handlebars <NUM> (e.g., by tilting or moving the handlebars <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>).

In some examples, the handlebars <NUM> include one or more sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, pressure sensors, or other sensors, that measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars <NUM>. In some embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars <NUM> relative to the frame <NUM>. In further embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars <NUM> relative to an initial position in space. In yet further embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars <NUM> relative to the direction of gravity.

In some embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars <NUM> and/or drivetrain <NUM> with a sampling rate in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM> Hertz (Hz), <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or any values therebetween. For example, the sampling rate may be greater than <NUM>. In other examples, the sampling rate may be less than <NUM>. In yet other examples, the sampling rate may be between <NUM> and <NUM>. In further examples, the sampling rate may be between <NUM> and <NUM> Hertz. In at least one example, the sampling rate is about <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the drivetrain <NUM> and/or handlebars <NUM> may be in data communication with the display <NUM> such that the drivetrain <NUM> and/or handlebars <NUM> may change and/or move to simulate one or more portions of an exercise experience. The display <NUM> may present an incline to a user and the drivetrain <NUM> may increase in resistance to reflect the simulated incline. In at least one embodiment, the display <NUM> may present an incline to the user and the frame <NUM> may incline and the drivetrain <NUM> may increase resistance simultaneously to create an immersive experience for a user. In other embodiments, the display <NUM> may display a curve in a road or track, and the handlebars <NUM> may tilt or move around a rotational axis relative to the frame <NUM> to simulate leaning or movement of the exercise bicycle <NUM>. In other words, the display <NUM> and the exercise bicycle <NUM> may be synchronized to simulate actual riding conditions.

The computing device <NUM> may allow tracking of exercise information, logging of exercise information, communication of exercise information to an external electronic device, or combinations thereof with or without a display <NUM>. For example, the computing device <NUM> may include a communications device that allows the computing device <NUM> to communicate data to a third-party storage device (e.g., internet and/or cloud storage) that may be subsequently accessed by a user.

In some embodiments, the drivetrain <NUM> may include an input component that receives an input force from the user and a drive mechanism that transmits the force through the drivetrain <NUM> to a hub that moves a wheel <NUM>. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG>, the input component is a set of pedals <NUM> that allow the user to apply a force to a belt. The belt may rotate an axle <NUM> about a wheel axis <NUM>. The rotation of the axle <NUM> may be transmitted to a wheel <NUM> by a hub <NUM>. In some embodiments, the wheel <NUM> may be a flywheel.

In some embodiments, the computing device <NUM> receives information from the drivetrain <NUM> and/or alter the drivetrain <NUM> as the user "moves" in a virtual or mixed environment. For example, the hub <NUM> may alter the resistance of the drivetrain <NUM> in response to the user moving in a virtual environment. In a particular example, the user may move the handlebars to provide a directional input upward, and the drivetrain <NUM> may increase resistance on the pedals <NUM> to simulate pedaling upward. For safety purposes, a brake <NUM> may be positioned on or supported by the frame <NUM> and configured to stop or slow the wheel <NUM> or other part of the drivetrain <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the brake <NUM> may be a friction brake, such as a drag brake, a drum brake, a caliper brake, a cantilever brake, or a disc brake, that may be actuated mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically, electronically, by other means, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the brake <NUM> may be a magnetic brake that slows and/or stops the movement of the wheel <NUM> and/or drivetrain <NUM> through the application of magnetic fields. In some examples, the brake may be manually forced in contact with the wheel <NUM> by a user rotating a knob to move the brake <NUM>. In other examples, the brake <NUM> may be a disc brake with a caliper hydraulically actuated with a lever on the handlebars <NUM>. In yet other examples, the brake may be actuated by the computing device <NUM> in response to one or more sensors.

<FIG> is a detail view of an embodiment of handlebars <NUM> and a supporting post <NUM> that allows movement of the handlebars <NUM>. The post <NUM> may be fixed relative to the frame of the exercise bicycle or other exercise device, such that movement of the handlebars <NUM> relative to the post <NUM> moves the handlebars <NUM> relative to the frame. The handlebars <NUM> include a yoke <NUM> supported by a stem <NUM>. The stem <NUM> is connected to the post <NUM> by a movable connection.

In the illustrated embodiment, the post <NUM> has a two-axis movable connection. For example, the yoke <NUM> and stem <NUM> may move relative to the post <NUM> around a first axis <NUM> and a second axis <NUM> oriented orthogonally to the first axis <NUM>. The first axis <NUM> may be a longitudinal axis of the frame and the second axis <NUM> may be a lateral axis of the frame. In such examples, rotation of the yoke <NUM> around the first axis <NUM> tilts the yoke <NUM> laterally (i.e., left and right) relative to the post <NUM> and frame while rotation of the yoke <NUM> around the second axis <NUM> tilts the yoke <NUM> longitudinally (i.e., forward and rearward) relative to the post <NUM> and frame. In other examples, the yoke <NUM> may rotate about a vertical third axis <NUM>, allowing twisting of the yoke <NUM> in the direction of the stem <NUM> and/or post <NUM>.

<FIG> is a side view of the handlebars <NUM> of <FIG>. In some embodiments, the yoke <NUM> is a curved yoke <NUM>. For example, the illustrated embodiment shows a yoke <NUM> with a lower portion <NUM> near the stem <NUM> and an upward curved portion <NUM> that terminates in an upper handle <NUM>. In another example, a curved yoke <NUM> may have a downward curving portion, such as drop handlebars common to road bicycles, with a lower handle. In other embodiments, the yoke <NUM> is a flat yoke. For example, the yoke <NUM> may be approximately straight from one end to the other or approximately straight between the stem <NUM> and an end of the yoke <NUM>. In yet other embodiments, the yoke <NUM> is a flat yoke <NUM> with bar end grips. For example, the yoke <NUM> may be a flat bar with bar end grips that extend upward from the flat bar.

The yoke <NUM> and stem <NUM> rotate around the first axis <NUM> and second axis <NUM>. In some embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis <NUM> and the range of motion around the second axis <NUM> are the same. In other embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis <NUM> is greater than the range of motion around the second axis <NUM>. In yet other embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis <NUM> is less than the range of motion around the second axis <NUM>.

The range of motion <NUM> of the yoke <NUM> relative to the post <NUM> around either the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> in each direction is in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, or any values therebetween. For example, the range of motion <NUM> from a centerpoint around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> may be greater than <NUM>° in each direction. In other examples, the range of motion <NUM> around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> may be less than <NUM>°. In yet other examples, the range of motion <NUM> around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In further examples, the range of motion <NUM> around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In yet further examples, the range of motion <NUM> around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In at least one example, it may be critical that the range of motion <NUM> around the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, or the third axis <NUM> in each direction is at least <NUM>°.

In other embodiments, the yoke <NUM> may be movable relative to the post <NUM> in a linear fashion. For example, the yoke <NUM> may translate in a direction of the first axis <NUM>, the second axis <NUM>, the third axis <NUM>, or any direction therebetween. In a particular example, the stem <NUM> may telescope in the direction of the third axis <NUM>, such that the yoke <NUM> can be pushed or pulled relative to the post <NUM>. In some embodiments, the translational axis (e.g., the third axis <NUM>) may tilt with the yoke <NUM> and stem <NUM>, allowing the yoke <NUM> to be pushed or pulled relative to the post <NUM> while the yoke <NUM> is rotated relative to the post <NUM>.

<FIG> is a detail view of the embodiment of a post <NUM> and stem <NUM> of <FIG>. The stem <NUM> has a mounting bracket <NUM> that connects the yoke to the stem <NUM>. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket <NUM> fixes the yoke relative to the stem <NUM>. In other embodiments, the mounting bracket <NUM> allows movement of the yoke relative to the stem <NUM> in at least one direction. For example, the mounting bracket <NUM> may include race bearings to allow rotation of the yoke relative to the stem <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the post <NUM> has a housing <NUM> and a bottom plate <NUM>. The bottom plate <NUM> may be fastened or connected to the housing <NUM> to enclose the post <NUM>. In other examples, the bottom plate <NUM> may be a part of a frame or other portion of an exercise device to which the post <NUM> is connected. The housing <NUM> and/or bottom plate <NUM> may allow one or more biasing members to be positioned at least partially inside the post <NUM> to bias and/or dampen the movement of the stem <NUM> and/or yoke during usage.

In some embodiments, the yoke may be interchangeable with a selection of yokes to allow customization of the exercise device to a user's preferences or to the different requirements of an exercise or entertainment system. <FIG> is a perspective view of an embodiment of a stem <NUM> with a connection plate <NUM>. The post <NUM> may retain all of the functionalities described herein, while the yoke <NUM> is easily changed between different styles or configurations. For example, the yoke <NUM> of <FIG> contains a plurality of buttons <NUM> or other input controls positioned on the yoke <NUM>. The connection plate <NUM> has electrical contacts <NUM> that allow the buttons <NUM> of the yoke <NUM> to communicate with the post <NUM>. When the yoke <NUM> is changed to a second yoke with a different configuration, the second yoke may communicate with the post <NUM> via the electrical contacts <NUM>, also, simplifying the customization of the handlebars.

<FIG> is a perspective view of the post <NUM> of <FIG> with the housing removed. The post <NUM> includes biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> that bias the stem <NUM> toward a centered position relative to the post <NUM>. In some embodiments, the centered position is coaxial with or in line with the post <NUM>. In other embodiments, the centered position is oriented at an angle to the post <NUM>. The centered position is, in either case, a stable position to which the stem <NUM> and yoke return, relative to the post <NUM>, when a user removes an applied force or other input from the yoke and stem <NUM>.

The stem <NUM> can move from the centered position around the first axis <NUM> and/or second axis <NUM> as a user applies a force to the yoke and stem <NUM>. The biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM> can resist the rotation of the stem <NUM> around the first axis <NUM> and/or second axis <NUM> and bias the stem <NUM> back toward the centered position. In some examples, the post <NUM> has at least one first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> that biases the stem <NUM> in relation to the first axis <NUM>. In other examples, the post <NUM> has a plurality of first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> that work in concert to bias the stem <NUM> toward a centered position around the first axis <NUM>. The first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be positioned on either side of a contact plate <NUM> at the top of the post <NUM> opposite one another. For example, the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be mirrored about an axis, plane, or another biasing element or other component of the post <NUM>. In some embodiments, the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> includes a spring. In other embodiments, the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> includes a piston and cylinder. In other embodiments, the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> includes a bushing.

In some examples, the post <NUM> has at least one second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> that biases the stem <NUM> in relation to the second axis <NUM>. In other examples, the post <NUM> has a plurality of second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> that bias the stem <NUM> in relation to the second axis <NUM>. The second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be positioned on either side of a contact plate <NUM> at the top of the post <NUM> opposite one another. In some embodiments, the second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> include a spring. In other embodiments, the second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> include a piston and cylinder. In other embodiments, the second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> include a bushing.

The first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> apply a force between the contact plate <NUM> and an opposite base plate <NUM>. In some embodiments, the base plate <NUM> may be the same as the bottom plate <NUM>. In other embodiments, the base plate <NUM> may be different from the bottom plate <NUM>. In at least one example, the base plate <NUM> may be movable relative to the bottom plate <NUM> to adjust the preload and/or damping of the biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>.

In some embodiments, the contact plate <NUM> contacts an inner ring <NUM> of the stem <NUM> and an outer ring <NUM> of the stem <NUM>. The outer ring <NUM> may be rotatable around the first axis <NUM> and the inner ring <NUM> may be rotatable around the second axis <NUM>.

<FIG> shows the post <NUM> and a portion of the stem with the outer ring removed from the inner ring <NUM>. The outer ring and inner ring <NUM> are supported by a first axle <NUM> and a second axle <NUM>, respectively. The first axle <NUM> allows rotation around the first axis <NUM> and the second axle <NUM> allows rotation around the second axis <NUM>.

As described herein, the post <NUM> and/or stem contains at least one sensor to measure the movement and/or position of the stem and yoke. In some embodiments, the contact plate <NUM> and/or the base plate <NUM> include a pressure sensor that measures changes in the force applied by the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and the second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> during movement of the yoke. In other embodiments, the contact plate <NUM> and/or the base plate <NUM> include an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the movement and/or position of the yoke.

In some embodiments, the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may have equal spring constants. In other words, the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may each produce an equal restorative force in response to compression and/or extension of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM>. In other embodiments, the biasing elements may have different spring constants to customize the user's experience and/or to allow directional inputs to be entered more easily in certain directions.

For example, the embodiment of first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> illustrated in <FIG> include four biasing elements oriented at four positions relative to a user. For the purposes of description, the four positions may be North and South (second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> opposing one another) and East and West (first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> opposing one another). In some examples, the East and West biasing elements may be equal, providing equal resistance to rotation toward the left and right from a user's perspective. In some examples, the East and West biasing elements may be unequal to compensate for a dominant hand of the user, such as a right-handed user applying greater force on the East biasing element that the West biasing element.

In other examples, the North and South biasing elements may be equal, providing equal resistance to rotation fore and aft from a user's perspective. In some examples, the North and South biasing elements may be unequal to compensate for the unequal leverage that may be applied by a user leaning over the handlebars. In such examples, the South biasing element nearest the user may have a greater spring constant to provide greater resistance, as a user may have greater leverage to push the bottom of the yoke downward. For example, the North and South biasing elements (e.g., the second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM>) may have a spring constant ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> (i.e., the South biasing element has a spring constant four times greater than the North biasing element) and <NUM>:<NUM> (the North biasing element has a spring constant that is <NUM>% of the South biasing element). In another example, the spring constant ratio may about <NUM>:<NUM>.

In some embodiments, the spring constant of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be in a range having an upper value a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM> pounds per inch (lb/in), <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, wherein <NUM> lb/in = <NUM>/m or any values therebetween. For example, a spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be greater than <NUM> lb/in. In other examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be less than <NUM> lb/in. In yet other examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In further examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In yet further examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In at least one example, the spring constant the North, East, and West biasing elements may be about <NUM> lb/in and the South biasing element (nearest the user) may be about <NUM> lb/in.

The first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> may be in contact with and apply a force to the contact plate <NUM>. In other examples, an end cap <NUM> may be positioned on an end of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and between the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and the contact plate <NUM>. The end cap <NUM> may allow the end of the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> to slide relative to the contact plate <NUM> as the contact plate <NUM> moves with the stem and/or yoke. The end cap <NUM> may, therefore, reduce wear on the first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and the contact plate <NUM>, increasing the operational lifetime of the exercise device.

While <FIG> illustrates an embodiment of first biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing elements <NUM>-<NUM> including coil springs, other biasing elements may be used. For example, <FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a post <NUM>-<NUM> with biasing elements <NUM> including a piston and cylinder with a compressible fluid therein. While both coil springs and a piston and cylinder with a compressible fluid can provide a restoring expansive force when compressed, the force curve of the restorative force relative to amount of compression may be different, providing a different haptic and tactile experience for a user.

Similarly, <FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a post <NUM>-<NUM> with biasing elements <NUM> including elastic tensile bands. The tensile bands provide little to no restorative force in response to compression (due to movement of a stem and/or yoke). However, biasing elements <NUM> including tensile bands can provide a restorative force in response to extension of the biasing elements <NUM>, providing another option for a haptic and tactile experience for a user.

<FIG> is a perspective view of another embodiment of a post <NUM>-<NUM> with biasing elements <NUM> and actuatable elements <NUM>. The biasing elements <NUM> provide a restorative force as a user moves a yoke of the handlebars, and the actuatable elements <NUM> may apply a force to move the yoke and/or to preload the biasing elements <NUM>. For example, the actuatable elements <NUM> may be motors, solenoids, piston and cylinders or other selectively moveable elements that move in the direction of the biasing elements <NUM>. The actuatable elements <NUM> can apply a compressive force to the biasing elements <NUM>, which may in turn apply a force to move the yoke. In other examples, the actuatable elements <NUM> can apply a compressive force to the biasing elements <NUM> to preload the biasing elements <NUM>. A preloaded biasing element <NUM> may provide greater resistance to movement of the yoke in the direction of that biasing element, which can provide a different haptic and tactile experience for the user.

<FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a post <NUM>-<NUM> with only a single biasing element <NUM> positioned around a central rod <NUM>. Tilting of the yoke in either rotational direction will apply a compressive force to the biasing element <NUM>. The biasing element <NUM> can then apply a restorative force to bias the yoke back to a center point about either rotational axis.

In addition to the directional inputs through the handlebars, a user may provide directional and/or movement inputs through the drivetrain of the exercise bicycle. <FIG> is a perspective view of another embodiment of an exercise bicycle <NUM>. The drivetrain can include one or more sensors to transmit inputs to the computing device <NUM>. In some embodiments, both the drivetrain <NUM> and the handlebars <NUM> provide user inputs to the computing device <NUM>. In other embodiments, only one of the drivetrain <NUM> and the handlebars <NUM> provides user inputs to the computing device <NUM>.

As described herein, the handlebars <NUM> can provide rotational and/or translational directional inputs in one, two, or three axes. The drivetrain <NUM> can provide input along the rotational axis of the pedals <NUM>. For example, the user may move the pedals <NUM> in a forward rotational direction or a rearward rotational direction about the pedal axis <NUM>. As pedaling the drivetrain <NUM> in a forward rotational direction intuitively would move a user forward on a bicycle, pedaling the drivetrain <NUM> can provide a forward directional input to a computing device <NUM>. In other examples, pedaling the drivetrain <NUM> in the opposite rearward rotational direction can provide a rearward directional input to the computing device <NUM>, much as backpedaling a fixed gear bicycle would move the user in a rearward direction.

<FIG> is a detail view of the drivetrain <NUM> of <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates an example of a sensor <NUM> array positioned in a crank of the pedals <NUM>. The sensor <NUM> array may be a brush switch array that measures both the movement and position of the pedals <NUM> through a physical contact that moves relative to the sensors <NUM> with the pedals <NUM>. In some examples, the sensor <NUM> or sensor <NUM> array measures the rate of movement of the pedals <NUM>. In other examples, the sensor <NUM> or sensor <NUM> array measures the direction of movement of the pedals <NUM>. In yet other examples, the sensor <NUM> or sensor <NUM> array measures the direction of movement and the rate of movement of the pedals <NUM>.

The sensor array <NUM> on the crank may allow the user to pedal forward or backward, and at different rotational speeds, to provide a directional input to a computing device, such as computing device <NUM> of <FIG>. <FIG> illustrates another embodiment of a magnetic reed switch sensor array with a plurality of sensors <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>. A magnet <NUM> is configured to rotate relative to the sensor array when the pedals turn. As the magnet <NUM> passes the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, the magnet <NUM> moves the reed switch in the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, and the sensor array detects the position of the magnet <NUM> (and hence the pedals) relative to the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM>. As the magnet <NUM> moves past the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, the magnet <NUM> moves the reed switch in the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, and the sensor array detects the position of the magnet <NUM> relative to the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>. In some embodiments, when the magnet <NUM> is positioned rotationally between the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM> and the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, the magnet <NUM> moves the reed switches in both the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM> and the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>, allowing the sensor array to detect the position of the magnet <NUM> between the first sensor <NUM>-<NUM> and the second sensor <NUM>-<NUM>.

<FIG> is another example of a sensor array positioned at the crank of a drivetrain. The sensor array includes a plurality of photoreceptor sensors <NUM>. A light source <NUM> is configured to rotate relative to the sensor array when the pedals turn. As the light source <NUM> passes a photoreceptor sensor <NUM>, the light source <NUM> delivers light to the photoreceptor sensor <NUM>, and the sensor array detects the position of the light source <NUM> (and hence the pedals) relative to the photoreceptor sensor <NUM>.

<FIG> is a system diagram illustrating an example interactive exercise system <NUM> utilizing handlebars <NUM> and/or a drivetrain <NUM>, according to the present disclosure. In other embodiments, an interactive exercise system according to the present disclosure includes handlebars <NUM> according to the present disclosure, but may lack a sensor <NUM> on the drivetrain <NUM>. In yet other embodiments, an interactive exercise system according to the present disclosure includes a drivetrain <NUM> according to the present disclosure, but not movable handlebars <NUM>.

The interactive exercise system <NUM> has a computing device <NUM> that is in data communication with a display <NUM>. The display <NUM> provides visual information to a user that is generated or provided by the computing device <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> is in data communication with at least one of handlebars <NUM> and a drivetrain <NUM>. The handlebars <NUM> may be movable, as described in relation to <FIG>, and include at least one handlebar sensor. For example, the handlebars <NUM> may include a lateral sensor <NUM> that measures a lateral input to the handlebars <NUM> and/or a longitudinal sensor <NUM> that measure a longitudinal input to the handlebars <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the handlebar sensor(s) (e.g., lateral sensor <NUM>, longitudinal sensor <NUM>) includes a pressure sensor that measures a force applied to the handlebars <NUM> by a user. In other embodiments, the handlebar sensor(s) includes an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the position or movement of the handlebars <NUM>. The handlebar sensor(s) provides a handlebar directional input <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>.

In some examples, the handlebar direction input <NUM> can include rotational and/or translational information in one, two, or three axes of the handlebars <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> receives the handlebar directional input <NUM> and can provide to the user, via the display <NUM>, visual information that is based at least partially upon the handlebar directional information.

The drivetrain <NUM> includes at least one drivetrain sensor <NUM> that provides a drivetrain directional input <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>. The drivetrain sensor <NUM> may include a pressure sensor that measures a force applied to the pedals by a user. In other embodiments, the drivetrain sensor <NUM> includes an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the position or movement of the pedals. In yet other embodiments, the drivetrain sensor <NUM> includes a switch array that measures the position and movement of the pedals. The drivetrain sensor <NUM> may measure the speed and direction of pedal movement and provide that information in the drivetrain directional input <NUM> to the computing device <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a computing device <NUM> of an interactive exercise system <NUM> sends a command to alter the movement, resistance, damping, or other characteristic of the handlebars <NUM> and/or drivetrain <NUM> as shown in <FIG>. For example, the display <NUM> may display to a user visual information corresponding to a left turn on a road or path. The computing device <NUM> can send a handlebar command <NUM> to the handlebars <NUM>. The handlebar command <NUM> can instruct a first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM>. In the current example, the handlebar command <NUM> may instruct the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to alter a centerpoint of the handlebar <NUM> to urge the handlebar <NUM> to the side and simulate the left turn of the road displayed on the display <NUM>.

In another example, the display <NUM> may provide visual information to a user corresponding to an upward road or path. The computing device <NUM> provides a handlebar command <NUM> to the handlebars <NUM> to simulate the upward road or path. For example, the handlebar command <NUM> can instruct a second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM>. In the current example, the handlebar command <NUM> may instruct the second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to alter a centerpoint of the handlebar <NUM> to rotate the handlebar <NUM> to the rear and simulate the upward road or path displayed on the display <NUM>.

In yet another example, the display <NUM> may provide visual information to a user corresponding to an uneven road or path. The computing device <NUM> provides a handlebar command <NUM> to the handlebars <NUM> to simulate the variability of the surface of the road or path. For example, the handlebar command <NUM> can instruct a first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM>. In the current example, the handlebar command <NUM> may instruct the first biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> and/or second biasing element <NUM>-<NUM> to rapidly alter a centerpoint of the handlebar <NUM> to simulate the movement of handlebars on a cobblestone, corrugated, or otherwise rough or uneven road or path displayed on the display <NUM>.

Additionally, or alternatively, the computing device <NUM> can send a drivetrain command <NUM> to one or more components of the drivetrain <NUM> to alter the behavior of the drivetrain relative to a road or path displayed to the user on the display <NUM>. The computing device <NUM> provides a drivetrain command <NUM> to the drivetrain <NUM> to simulate the upward road or path. For example, the drivetrain command <NUM> can instruct a brake <NUM> and/or hub <NUM> to apply a torque and/or alter a resistance of the drivetrain <NUM>. In the current example, the drivetrain command <NUM> may instruct the drivetrain <NUM> to alter a resistance of the hub <NUM> to simulate the upward road or path displayed on the display <NUM>.

In general, the present invention relates to providing a directional input mechanism on an exercise bicycle. In some embodiments, the directional input mechanism is handlebars of the exercise bicycle. For example, the handlebars may move relative to a frame of the exercise bicycle, and the amount of movement provides the directional input. In other examples, the handlebars are in communication with a pressure sensor that measures the force applied to the handlebars, and the amount of force provides the directional input. In other embodiments, the directional input mechanism is the drivetrain of the exercise bicycle. For example, the drivetrain includes one or more sensors to measure the movement direction and/or speed of the pedals.

The exercise bicycle includes a frame that supports a drivetrain and at least one wheel. The frame may further support a seat for a user to sit upon, handlebars for a user to grip, one or more displays, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the display is supported by the frame. In other embodiments, the display is separate from the frame, such as a wall-mounted display. In yet other embodiments, the display is a head-mounted display (HMD) worn by the user, such as a virtual reality, mixed reality, or augmented reality HMD.

In some embodiments, an exercise bicycle may use one or more displays to display feedback or other data regarding the operation of the exercise bicycle. In some embodiments, the drivetrain and/or handlebars may be in data communication with the display such that the display presents real-time information or feedback collected from one or more sensors on the drivetrain and/or handlebars. For example, the display may present information to the user regarding cadence, wattage, simulated distance, duration, simulated speed, resistance, incline, heart rate, respiratory rate, other measured or calculated data, or combinations thereof. In other examples, the display may present use instructions to a user, such as workout instructions for predetermined workout regimens (stored locally or accessed via a network); live workout regimens, such as live workouts broadcast via a network connection; or simulated bicycle rides, such as replicated stages of real-world bicycle races. In yet other examples, the display may present one or more entertainment options to a user during usage of the exercise bicycle.

The display may display locally stored videos and/or audio, video and/or audio streamed via a network connection, video and/or audio displayed from a connected device (such as a smartphone, laptop, or other computing device connected to the display), dynamically generated images using a connected or integrated device, or other entertainment sources. In other embodiments, an exercise bicycle may lack a display on the exercise bicycle, and the exercise bicycle may provide information to an external or peripheral display or computing device in alternative to or in addition to a display. For example, the exercise bicycle may communicate with a smartphone, wearable device, tablet computer, laptop, or other electronic device to allow a user to log their exercise information.

The exercise bicycle has a computing device in data communication with one or more components of the exercise bicycle. For example, the computing device may allow the exercise bicycle to collect information from the drivetrain and/or handlebars and display such information, or visual information based on the drivetrain information, in real-time. In other examples, the computing device may send a command to activate one or more components of the exercise device to alter the behavior of the exercise device. For example, the frame may move to simulate an incline or decline displayed on the display during a training session by tilting the frame with a tilt motor. Similarly, the drivetrain may change to alter resistance, gear, or other characteristics to simulate different experiences for a user. The drivetrain may increase resistance to simulate climbing a hill, riding through sand or mud, or other experience that requires greater energy input from the user, or the drivetrain may change gear (e.g., physically or "virtually") and the distance calculated by the computing device may reflect the selected gear.

In some embodiments, the handlebars are movable relative to the frame. The user may move the handlebars relative to the frame to provide directional inputs to the computing device. For example, the display may present images to the user of a dynamically-generated virtual or mixed reality environment, such as used in a computer game. The images of the virtual environment may change as the user provides directional inputs via the drivetrain (e.g., by pedaling) and/or the handlebars (e.g., by tilting or moving the handlebars relative to the frame).

In some examples, the handlebars include one or more sensors, such as accelerometers, gyroscopes, pressure sensors, torque sensors, or other sensors, that measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars. In some embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars relative to the frame. In other embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars relative to an initial position in space. In yet other embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars relative to the direction of gravity.

In some embodiments, the sensors measure the movement and/or position of the handlebars and/or drivetrain with a sampling rate in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM> Hertz (Hz), <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or any values therebetween. For example, the sampling rate may be greater than <NUM>. In other examples, the sampling rate may be less than <NUM>. In yet other examples, the sampling rate may be between <NUM> and <NUM>. In further examples, the sampling rate may be between <NUM> and <NUM> Hertz. In at least one example, the sampling rate is about <NUM>.

In other embodiments, the drivetrain and/or handlebars may be in data communication with the display such that the drivetrain and/or handlebars may change and/or move to simulate one or more portions of an exercise experience. The display may present an incline to a user and the drivetrain may increase in resistance to reflect the simulated incline. In at least one embodiment, the display may present an incline to the user and the frame may incline and the drivetrain may increase resistance simultaneously to create an immersive experience for a user. In other embodiments, the display may display a curve in a road or track, and the handlebars may tilt or move around a rotational axis relative to the frame to simulate leaning or movement of the exercise bicycle.

The computing device may allow tracking of exercise information, logging of exercise information, communication of exercise information to an external electronic device, or combinations thereof with or without a display. For example, the computing device may include a communications device that allows the computing device to communicate data to a third-party storage device (e.g., internet and/or cloud storage) that may be subsequently accessed by a user.

In some embodiments, the drivetrain may include an input component that receives an input force from the user and a drive mechanism that transmits the force through the drivetrain to a hub that moves a wheel. The input component can be a set of pedals that allow the user to apply a force to a belt. The belt may rotate an axle. The rotation of the axle may be transmitted to a wheel by a hub. In some embodiments, the wheel may be a flywheel.

In some embodiments, the computing device receives information from the drivetrain and/or alter the drivetrain as the user "moves" in a virtual or mixed environment. For example, the hub may alter the resistance of the drivetrain in response to user moving in a virtual environment. In a particular example, the user may move the handlebars to provide a directional input upward, and the drivetrain may increase resistance on the pedals to simulate pedaling upward. For safety purposes, a brake may be positioned on or supported by the frame and configured to stop or slow the wheel or other part of the drivetrain.

In some embodiments, the brake may be a friction brake, such as a drag brake, a drum brake, caliper brake, a cantilever brake, or a disc brake, that may be actuated mechanically, hydraulically, pneumatically, electronically, by other means, or combinations thereof. In other embodiments, the brake may be a magnetic brake that slows and/or stops the movement of the wheel and/or drivetrain through the application of magnetic fields. In some examples, the brake may be manually forced in contact with the wheel by a user rotating a knob to move the brake. In other examples, the brake may be a disc brake with a caliper hydraulically actuated with a lever on the handlebars. In yet other examples, the brake may be actuated by the computing device in response to one or more sensors.

Handlebars can include a supporting post that allows movement of the handlebars. The post may be fixed relative to the frame of the exercise bicycle or other exercise device, such that movement of the handlebars relative to the post moves the handlebars relative to the frame. The handlebars include a yoke supported by a stem. The stem is connected to the post by a movable connection.

The post can have a two-axis movable connection. For example, the yoke and stem may move relative to the post around a first axis and a second axis oriented orthogonally to the first axis. The first axis may be a longitudinal axis of the frame and the second axis may be a lateral axis of the frame. In such examples, rotation of the yoke around the first axis tilts the yoke laterally (i.e., left and right) relative to the post and frame while rotation of the yoke around the second axis tilts the yoke longitudinally (i.e., forward and rearward) relative to the post and frame. In other examples, the yoke may rotate about a vertical axis, allowing twisting of the yoke in the direction of the stem and/or post.

In some embodiments, the yoke is a curved yoke. For example, the illustrated embodiment shows a yoke with lower portion near the stem and an upward curved portion that terminates in an upper handle. In another example, a curved yoke may have a downward curving portion, such as drop handlebars common to road bicycles, with a lower handle. In other embodiments, the yoke is a flat yoke common to mountain bicycles. For example, the yoke may be approximately straight from one end to the other or approximately straight between the stem and an end of the yoke. In yet other embodiments, the yoke is a flat yoke with bar end grips. For example, the yoke may be a flat bar with bar end grips that extend upward from the flat bar.

The yoke and stem rotate around the first axis and second axis. In some embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis and the range of motion around the second axis are the same. In other embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis is greater than the range of motion around the second axis. In yet other embodiments, the range of motion around the first axis is less than the range of motion around the second axis.

The range of motion of the yoke relative to the post around either the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis in each direction is in a range having an upper value, a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, or any values therebetween. For example, the range of motion from a centerpoint around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis may be greater than <NUM>° in each direction. In other examples, the range of motion around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis may be less than <NUM>°. In yet other examples, the range of motion around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In further examples, the range of motion around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In yet further examples, the range of motion around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis may be between <NUM>° and <NUM>°. In at least one example, it may be critical that the range of motion around the first axis, the second axis, or the third axis in each direction is at least <NUM>°.

In other embodiments, the yoke may be movable relative to the post in a linear fashion. For example, the yoke may translate in a direction of the first axis, the second axis, the third axis, or any direction therebetween. In a particular example, the stem may telescope in the direction of the third axis, such that the yoke can be pushed or pulled relative to the post. In some embodiments, the translational axis (e.g., the third axis) may tilt with the yoke and stem, allowing the yoke to be pushed or pulled relative to the post while the yoke is rotated relative to the post.

The stem can have a mounting bracket that connects the yoke to the stem. In some embodiments, the mounting bracket fixes the yoke relative to the stem. In other embodiments, the mounting bracket allows movement of the yoke relative to the stem in at least one direction. For example, the mounting bracket may include race bearings to allow rotation of the yoke relative to the stem.

In some embodiments, the post has a housing and a bottom plate. The bottom plate may be fastened or connected to the housing to enclose the post. In other examples, the bottom plate may be a part of a frame or other portion of an exercise device to which the post is connected. The housing and/or bottom plate may allow one or more biasing members to be positioned at least partially inside the post to bias and/or dampen the movement of the stem and/or yoke during usage.

In some embodiments, the yoke may be interchangeable with a selection of yokes to allow customization of the exercise device to a user's preferences or to the different requirements of an exercise or entertainment system. The post may retain all of the functionalities described herein, while the yoke is easily changed between different styles or configurations. For example, the yoke of contains a plurality of buttons or other input controls positioned on the yoke. A connection plate has electrical contacts that allow the buttons of the yoke to communicate with the post. When the yoke is changed to a second yoke with a different configuration, the second yoke may communicate with the post via the electrical contacts, also, simplifying the customization of the handlebars.

The post includes biasing elements that bias the stem toward a centered position relative to the post. In some embodiments, the centered position is coaxial with or in line with the post. In other embodiments, the centered position is oriented at an angle to the post. The centered position is, in either case, a stable position to which the stem and yoke return, relative to the post, when a user removes an applied force or other input from the yoke and stem.

The stem can move from the centered position around the first axis and/or second axis as a user applies a force to the yoke and stem. The biasing elements can resist the rotation of the stem around the first axis and/or second axis and bias the stem back toward the centered position. In some examples, the post has at least one first biasing element that biases the stem in relation to the first axis. In other examples, the post has a plurality of first biasing elements that work in concert to bias the stem toward a centered position around the first axis. The first biasing elements may be positioned on either side of a contact plate at the top of the post opposite one another. In some embodiments, the first biasing element includes a spring. In other embodiments, the first biasing element includes a piston and cylinder. In other embodiments, the first biasing element includes a bushing.

In some examples, the post has at least one second biasing element that biases the stem in relation to the second axis. In other examples, the post has a plurality of second biasing elements that bias the stem in relation to the second axis. The second biasing elements may be positioned on either side of a contact plate at the top of the post opposite one another. In some embodiments, the second biasing elements includes a spring. In other embodiments, the second biasing elements includes a piston and cylinder. In other embodiments, the second biasing elements includes a bushing.

The first biasing elements and second biasing elements apply a force between the contact plate and an opposite base plate. In some embodiments, the base plate may be the same as the bottom plate. In other embodiments, the base plate may be different from the bottom plate. In at least one example, the base plate may be movable relative to the bottom plate to adjust the preload and/or damping of the biasing elements.

In some embodiments, the contact plate contacts an inner ring of the stem and an outer ring of the stem. The inner ring may be rotatable around the first axis and the outer ring may be rotatable around the second axis. The outer ring and inner ring and supported by a first axle and a second axle, respectively. The first axle allows rotation around the first axis and the second axle allows rotation around the second axis.

The post and/or stem contains at least one sensor to measure the movement and/or position of the stem and yoke. In some embodiments, the contact plate and/or the base plate include a pressure sensor that measures changes in the force applied by the first biasing elements and the second biasing elements during movement of the yoke. In other embodiments, the contact plate and/or the base plate include an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the movement and/or position of the yoke.

In some embodiments, the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may have equal spring constants. In other words, the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may each produce an equal restorative force in response to compression and/or extension of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements. In other embodiments, the biasing elements may have different spring constants to customize the user's experience and/or to allow directional inputs to be entered more easily in certain directions.

For example, first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements can include four biasing elements oriented at four positions relative to a user. For the purposes of description, the four positions may be North and South (second biasing elements opposing one another) and East and West (first biasing elements opposing one another). In some examples, the East and West biasing elements may be equal, providing equal resistance to rotation toward the left and right from a user's perspective. In some examples, the East and West biasing elements may be unequal to compensate for a dominant hand of the user, such as a right-handed user applying greater force on the East biasing element that the West biasing element.

In other examples, the North and South biasing elements may be equal, providing equal resistance to rotation fore and aft from a user's perspective. In some examples, the North and South biasing elements may be unequal to compensate for the unequal leverage that may be applied by a user leaning over the handlebars. In such examples, the South biasing element nearest the user may have a greater spring constant to provide greater resistance, as a user may have greater leverage to push the bottom of the yoke downward. For example, the North and South biasing elements (e.g., the second biasing elements) may have a spring constant ratio between <NUM>:<NUM> (i.e., the South biasing element has a spring constant four times greater than the North biasing element) and <NUM>:<NUM> (the North biasing element has a spring constant that is <NUM>% of the South biasing element). In another example, the spring constant ratio may about <NUM>:<NUM>.

In some embodiments, the spring constant of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be in a range having an upper value a lower value, or upper and lower values including any of <NUM> pounds per inch (lb/in), <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, <NUM> lb/in, wherein <NUM> lb/in = <NUM>/m, or any values therebetween. For example, a spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be greater than <NUM> lb/in. In other examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be less than <NUM> lb/in. In yet other examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In further examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In yet further examples, the spring constant of at least one of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be between <NUM> lb/in and <NUM> lb/in. In at least one example, the spring constant the North, East, and West biasing elements may be about <NUM> lb/in and the South biasing element (nearest the user) may be about <NUM> lb/in.

The first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements may be in contact with and apply a force to the contact plate. In other examples, an end cap may be positioned on an end of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements and between the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements and the contact plate. The end cap may allow the end of the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements to slide relative to the contact plate as the contact plate moves with the stem and/or yoke. The end cap may, therefore, reduce wear on the first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements and the contact plate, increasing the operational lifetime of the exercise device.

An embodiment of first biasing elements and/or second biasing elements can include coil springs, but other biasing elements may be used. For example, another embodiment of a post with biasing elements includes a piston and cylinder with a compressible fluid therein. While both coil springs and a piston and cylinder with a compressible fluid can provide a restoring expansive force when compressed, the force curve of the restorative force relative to amount of compression may be different, providing a different haptic and tactile experience for a user.

Yet another embodiment of a post with biasing elements includes elastic tensile bands. The tensile bands provide little to no restorative force in response to compression (due to movement of a stem and/or yoke). However, biasing elements including tensile bands can provide a restorative force in response to extension of the biasing elements, providing another option for a haptic and tactile experience for a user.

Yet other embodiments of a post with biasing elements can include actuatable elements. The biasing elements provide a restorative force as a user moves a yoke of the handlebars, and the actuatable elements may apply a force to move the yoke and/or to preload the biasing elements. For example, the actuatable elements may be motors, solenoids, piston and cylinders or other selectively moveable elements that move in the direction of the biasing elements. The actuatable elements can apply a compressive force to the biasing elements, which may in turn apply a force to move the yoke. In other examples, the actuatable elements can apply a compressive force to the biasing elements to preload the biasing elements. A preloaded biasing element may provide greater resistance to movement of the yoke in the direction of that biasing element, which can provide a different haptic and tactile experience for the user.

Still further embodiments of a post can include only a single biasing element positioned around a central rod. Tilting of the yoke in either rotational direction will apply a compressive force to the biasing element. The biasing element can then apply a restorative force to bias the yoke back to a center point about either rotational axis.

In addition to the directional inputs through the handlebars, a user may provide directional and/or movement inputs through the drivetrain of the exercise bicycle. The drivetrain can include one or more sensors to transmit inputs to the computing device. In some embodiments, both the drivetrain and the handlebars provide user inputs to the computing device. In other embodiments, only one of the drivetrain and the handlebars provides user inputs to the computing device.

The handlebars can provide rotational and/or translational directional inputs in one, two, or three axes. The drivetrain can provide input along the rotational axis of the pedals. For example, the user may move the pedals in a forward rotational direction or a rearward rotational direction about the pedal axis. As pedaling the drivetrain in a forward rotational direction intuitively would move a user forward on a bicycle, pedaling the drivetrain can provide a forward directional input to a computing device. In other examples, pedaling the drivetrain in the opposite rearward rotational direction can provide a rearward directional input to the computing device, much as backpedaling a fixed gear bicycle would move the user in a rearward direction.

A sensor array can be positioned in a crank of the pedals. The sensor array may be a brush switch array that measures both the movement and position of the pedals through a physical contact that moves relative to the sensors with the pedals. In some examples, the sensor or sensor array measures the rate of movement of the pedals. In other examples, the sensor or sensor array measures the direction of movement of the pedals. In yet other examples, the sensor or sensor array measures the direction of movement and the rate of movement of the pedals.

The sensor array on the crank may allow the user to pedal forward or backward, and at different rotational speeds, to provide a directional input to a computing device. In other embodiments, a drivetrain sensor can be a magnetic reed switch sensor array with a plurality of sensors. A magnet is configured to rotate relative to the sensor array when the pedals turn. As the magnet passes the first sensor, the magnet moves the reed switch in the first sensor, and the sensor array detects the position of the magnet (and hence the pedals) relative to the first sensor. As the magnet moves past the second sensor, the magnet moves the reed switch in the second sensor, and the sensor array detects the position of the magnet relative to the second sensor. In some embodiments, when the magnet is positioned rotationally between the first sensor and the second sensor, the magnet moves the reed switches in both the first sensor and the second sensor, allowing the sensor array to detect the position of the magnet between the first sensor and the second sensor.

Another example of drivetrain sensor is a sensor array including a plurality of photoreceptor sensors. A light source is configured to rotate relative to the sensor array when the pedals turn. As the light source passes a photoreceptor sensor, the light source delivers light to the photoreceptor sensor, and the sensor array detects the position of the light source (and hence the pedals) relative to the photoreceptor sensor.

An example interactive exercise system utilizes handlebars and/or a drivetrain. In other embodiments, an interactive exercise system according to the present disclosure includes handlebars according to the present disclosure but may lack a sensor on the drivetrain. In yet other embodiments, an interactive exercise system according to the present disclosure includes a drivetrain according to the present disclosure, but not movable handlebars.

The interactive exercise system has a computing device that is in data communication with a display. The display provides visual information to a user that is generated or provided by the computing device. The computing device is in data communication with at least one of handlebars and a drivetrain. The handlebars may be movable and include at least one handlebar sensor. For example, the handlebars may include a lateral sensor that measure a lateral input to the handlebars and/or a longitudinal sensor that measure a longitudinal input to the handlebars.

In some embodiments, the handlebar sensor(s) includes a pressure sensor that measure a force applied to the handlebars by a user. In other embodiments, the handlebar sensor(s) includes an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the position or movement of the handlebars. The handlebar sensor(s) provide a handlebar directional input to the computing device.

In some examples, the handlebar direction input can include rotational and/or translational information in one, two, or three axes of the handlebars. The computing device receives the handlebar directional input and can provide to the user, via the display, visual information that is based at least partially upon the handlebar directional information.

The drivetrain includes at least one drivetrain sensor that provides a drivetrain directional input to the computing device. The drivetrain sensor may include a pressure sensor that measure a force applied to the pedals by a user. In other embodiments, the drivetrain sensor includes an accelerometer or gyroscope that measures the position or movement of the pedals. In yet other embodiments, the drivetrain sensor includes a switch array that measures the position and movement of the pedals. The drivetrain sensor may measure the speed and direction of pedal movement and provide that information in the drivetrain directional input to the computing device.

In some embodiments, a computing device of an interactive exercise system sends a command to alter the movement, resistance, damping, or other characteristic of the handlebars and/or drivetrain. For example, the display may display to a user visual information corresponding to left turn on a road or path. The computing device can send a handlebar command to the handlebars. The handlebar command can instruct a first biasing element to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the first biasing element. In the current example, the handlebar command may instruct the first biasing element to alter a centerpoint of the handlebar to urge the handlebar to the side and simulate the left turn of the road displayed on the display.

In another example, the display may provide visual information to a user corresponding to an upward road or path. The computing device provides a handlebar command to the handlebars to simulate the upward road or path. For example, the handlebar command can instruct a second biasing element to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the second biasing element. In the current example, the handlebar command may instruct the second biasing element to alter a centerpoint of the handlebar to rotate the handlebar to the rear and simulate the upward road or path displayed on the display.

In yet another example, the display may provide visual information to a user corresponding to an uneven road or path. The computing device provides a handlebar command to the handlebars to simulate the variability of the surface of the road or path. For example, the handlebar command can instruct a first biasing element and/or second biasing element to apply a force and/or alter a damping of the first biasing element and/or second biasing element. In the current example, the handlebar command may instruct the first biasing element and/or second biasing element to rapidly alter a centerpoint of the handlebar to simulate the movement of handlebars on a cobblestone, corrugated, or otherwise rough or uneven road or path displayed on the display.

Additionally, or alternatively, the computing device can send a drivetrain command to one or more components of the drivetrain to alter the behavior of the drivetrain relative to a road or path displayed to the user on the display. The computing device provides a drivetrain command to the drivetrain to simulate the upward road or path. For example, the drivetrain command can instruct a brake and/or hub to apply a torque and/or alter a resistance of the drivetrain. In the current example, the drivetrain command may instruct the drivetrain to alter a resistance of the hub to simulate the upward road or path displayed on the display.

In at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, an interactive exercise device may include one or more mechanisms to provide directional inputs to a computing device, and the computing device can generate a virtual or mixed reality environment based upon the directional inputs. The directional inputs are received from movable handlebars and/or drivetrain with at least one sensor to measure the position and/or movement of the handlebars and/or drivetrain.

The articles "a," "an," and "the" are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements in the preceding descriptions. For example, any element described in relation to an embodiment herein may be combinable with any element of any other embodiment described herein. Numbers, percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended to include that value, and also other values that are "about" or "approximately" the stated value, as would be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the present disclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadly enough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the stated value to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. The stated values include at least the variation to be expected in a suitable manufacturing or production process, and may include values that are within <NUM>%, within <NUM>%, within <NUM>%, or within <NUM>% of a stated value.

The invention is further defined by the appended claims.

Claim 1:
An exercise device (<NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a frame (<NUM>);
handlebars (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) supported by the frame (<NUM>), characterised in that the handlebars (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) including:
a yoke (<NUM>) that is rotatably movable relative to the frame about a first axis (<NUM>), a second axis (<NUM>), and a third axis (<NUM>);
a post (<NUM>) connecting the yoke (<NUM>) to the frame (<NUM>), the first axis (<NUM>), the second axis (<NUM>), and the third axis (<NUM>) being orthogonal at the post (<NUM>);
a biasing element (<NUM>) positioned between the yoke (<NUM>) and the frame (<NUM>), and
a sensor configured to measure a movement of the yoke (<NUM>); and
a computing device (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) in data communication with the sensor.