US20130310221A1 - Exercise metric graphical code generation - Google Patents

Abstract

Different graphical codes are generated and displayed based upon signals representing different values of an exercise metric of a fitness equipment unit.

Description

BACKGROUND
• Many fitness equipment units have minimal data processing, data transmission and power capabilities. Such fitness equipment units have little or no capability for processing or outputting exercise metrics or exercise results. As a result, it is difficult to incorporate the use of such fitness equipment units into an overall exercise program or exercise routine.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an example exercise metric output system.
• FIG. 2 is an example of a first graphical code that may be utilized with the exercise metric output system ofFIG. 1.
• FIG. 3 is an example of a second graphical code that may be utilized with the exercise metric output system ofFIG. 1.
• FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of an example method that be carried out by the exercise metric output system ofFIG. 1.
• FIG. 5 is a schematic illustration of an example exercise system.
• FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of another example method that may be carried out by the exercise system ofFIG. 5.
• FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of another example method and corresponding content that may be carried out and displayed, respectively, by the exercise system ofFIG. 5.
• FIG. 8 is a diagram of an example graphical code and corresponding translated output of values for exercise metrics from a fitness equipment unit.
• FIG. 9 is a schematic illustration of an example implementation of the exercise metric output system ofFIG. 1.
• FIG. 10 is a fragmentary schematic illustration of an example implementation of the exercise metric output system ofFIG. 8.
• FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of an example implementation of the exercise system ofFIG. 5.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS
• FIG. 1 schematically illustrates an example exercisemetric output system20. As will be described hereafter, exercisemetric output system20 outputs values or results for exercise metrics for a fitness equipment unit with less power consumption or processing demands. Exercisemetric output system20 enables the output of values for exercise metrics from fitness equipment unit, a stand-alone fitness equipment unit, or a fitness equipment unit with no connection (LAN or Wi-Fi) to the Internet. Exercisemetric output system20 further moves high-level software functions off of thefitness equipment unit24 facilitating the use of low-power low-cost processors to drive a display. As a result,system20 reduces the cost and complexity of electronics associated with the fitness equipment unit while also reducing power consumption to make alternative forms a power, such as solar or kinetic energy, feasible for supplying adequate amounts of power.
• Exercisemetric output system20 comprisesfitness equipment unit24, display40 andcontroller50.Fitness equipment unit24 comprises a machine or device with which a person interacts to carry out cardiovascular exercise, anaerobic exercise or combinations thereof. As schematically shown byFIG. 1, fitness equipment unit22 comprises one or moremovable members52, wherein eachmovable member52 is adapted or configured to be contacted by an anatomy of a person to facilitate exercise by the person. In some implementations, an adjustable or controlled resistance may be applied against movement ofmovable member52. In some implementations, the size, shape or inclination of a path through which themovable member52 moves may be controlled or adjusted.
• In one implementation,movable member40 may comprise a footpad against which a person's foot or feet press against during exercise. Examples offitness equipment units24 or exercise devices that include such a footpad include, but are not limited to, elliptical machines, stepper machines, rowing machines, stationary bicycles, adaptive motion machines, ski simulation machines, and leg press machines. In one implementation,movable member52 may comprise a belt against which the user contacts, such as those used in treadmills. In one implementation,movable member52 may comprise a handgrip about which a person grasps to apply force during exercise. Examples offitness equipment units24 or exercise devices that include such handgrips include, but are not limited to, elliptical machines (swing arms), stepper machines (swing aims), adaptive motion machines (swing arms), climbing machines, pendulum motion machines, ski simulation machines, rowing machines, weight pull down machines, chest press machines and the like. In one implementation,movable member52 may comprise a member configured to contact other portions of an anatomy such as members that contact a person's shins (leg press), a person's shoulders (squat machine), or a person thighs (abdominal exercise machine).
• Display40 comprises a display screen configured to present or display images of differentgraphical codes54 that change from time-to-time depending upon different exercise metrics or exercise results. Depending upon the type ofgraphical code54 to be displayed,display40 may comprise a liquid crystal display, light emitting diode display, organic light emitting diode display (OLED), an electronic ink (e-ink) display or other types of display technology in present use or developed in the future.
• Examples of a graphical code are shown inFIGS. 2 and 3.FIG. 2 illustrates an example quick response (QR)code54A.FIG. 3 illustrates an example one-dimensional barcode54B. For purposes of this disclosure, a “graphical code” is a machine-readable graphic of lines, spots, bars, or symbols representing data in a codified manner, wherein the graphic is not alphanumeric and wherein the data represented by the graphic is not readily identifiable or capable of being understood without being translated using a code key for the graphic. Other examples of graphical codes include, but are not limited to, a two-dimensional barcode, a three dimensional barcode and a circular guilloche. In other implementations,display40 may be configured to dynamically present different images of other types of graphical codes currently in existence or developed in the future.
• Controller50 comprises one or more processing units configured to receive signals representing different values for an exercise metric offitness equipment unit24 and to generate control signals causing display42 present different graphical codes based on different values for the exercise metric from thefitness equipment unit24. For example,controller50 generates controlsignals causing display40 to present a first image of a first type of a graphical code, wherein the first image represents first results for the particular exercise metric.Controller50 may generate controlsignals causing display40 to present a second image, different than the first image, of the same first type of graphical code, wherein the second image represents second results, different than the first results, for the particular exercise metric. By way of a specific example,controller50 may generate controlsignals causing display40 to present a first graphical code, such as afirst QR code54A in response to receiving signals indicating that a person is lifting a first amount of weight.Controller50 may generate controlsignals causing display40 to present asecond QR code54A, different than thefirst QR code54A, in response to receiving signals indicating that a person is lifting a second amount of weight different than the first amount of weight.
• For purposes of this application, the term “processing unit” shall mean a presently developed or future developed processing unit that executes sequences of instructions contained in a memory. Execution of the sequences of instructions causes the processing unit to perform steps such as generating control signals. The instructions may be loaded in a random access memory (RAM) for execution by the processing unit from a read only memory (ROM), a mass storage device, or some other persistent storage. In other embodiments, hard wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions to implement the functions described. For example, controller92 may be embodied as part of one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Unless otherwise specifically noted, the controller is not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software, nor to any particular source for the instructions executed by the processing unit.
• FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of anexample method100 and may be carried out by exercisemetric output system20. As indicated bystep102,controller50 receives signals representing different values for a least one exercise metric of a fitness equipment unit, such asfitness equipment unit24. In one implementation,controller50 receive signals representing different values for multiple exercise metrics of exercise on thefitness equipment unit24. Examples of exercise metrics that may be represented by signals received bycontroller50 include, but are not limited to, a speed at whichmovable member52 is being moved, and acceleration ofmovable member52, a time duration of movement of who member52, a level of resistance against movement ofmovable member52, a time of day or a date at which the exercise was initiated or completed, a number of repetitions or a number of sets of repetitions completed, and a range or distance through whichmovable member52 has been moved.
• Such signals may be generated using one or more sensors sensing movement of movable member52 (or movement of other members or structures which move in response to movement of movable member52). Such signals may also or alternatively be generated based upon selected value settings entered for exercise metrics onfitness equipment unit24. For example,fitness equipment unit24 may be configured to allow a person exercising to select one or more values for exercise parameters for exercise metrics onfitness equipment unit24, wherein such values during an individual exercise session do not change or only change according to a predefined a predetermined program or control routine. In one implementation,fitness equipment unit24 may comprise an exercise device, such as a treadmill, elliptical machine, stair stepper, and the like, wherein a person selects all the values for the particular exercise session on the exercise device, such as the speed, resistance, and duration. In such an implementation, the signals representing values for the exercise metrics may be generated directly from the selections of the values, wherein sensors are not needed to detect values for such exercise metrics. In such an implementation, the signals represent the selected values for the parameters are exercise metrics rather than sensed values.
• As indicated bystep104, based upon such signals received instep102,controller50 generate control signals causing display42 display differentgraphical codes54. For example, during a first exercise session, a person may lift a first amount of weight, for a first number of repetitions, through a first distance, within a first period of time. Based upon such values, as represented by signals received fromfitness equipment unit24,controller50 may causedisplay40 to present a first image of agraphical code54.
• During a second exercise session, the person may lift a second amount of weight, for a second number of repetitions, through a second distance within a second period of time. Based upon such values for the second exercise session, as represented by signals received fromfitness equipment unit24,controller50 may causedisplay40 to present a second image, different than the first image, of thegraphical code54. For example, the first exercise session may result in a first QR code being presented on the second exercise session may result in a second QR code being presented.
• Each of the first and second images ofgraphical code54, for the first and second exercise sessions, may be captured by a camera, scanner or other code capturing device of a portable electronic device carried by the person exercising for subsequent translation, storage, analysis and use. Becausesystem20 andmethod100 present a graphical code based upon different values for one or more exercise metrics, such values are compactly presented for fast and efficient capture by a portable electronic device, allowing such graphical codes to be translated to the exercise metric values that they represent independent ofsystem20 orfitness equipment unit24. The translated graphical codes may be analyzed, stored, used and transmitted independent ofsystem20 orfitness equipment unit24.
• Because the analysis, storage, use and transmission of the values for the one or more exercise metrics fromfitness equipment unit24 may be performed independent offitness equipment unit24 orsystem20,system20 andfitness equipment unit24 may be simpler in construction and lower in cost. Rather than having to connectfitness equipment unit24 to a substantial power source, such as an electrical outlet,controller50 anddisplay40 have a relatively small, reduced power demand, allowing them to be operated using power from a battery or rechargeable battery. Rather than having to connectfitness equipment unit24 in a wired or wireless fashion to a network, data transmission may be carried out using the portable electronic device that captured the graphical code. Rather than having to providefitness community24 with processing or memory capability to analyze and store the results of an exercise session, such analysis and storage of the results may alternatively be carried out remote fromunit24 on a portable electronic device or another computing device in communication with the portable electronic device.
• System20 further facilitates incorporation of existingfitness equipment unit24 lacking substantial processing capabilities or power supplies into overall exercise routines or programs. Because the automatic programmed generation ofgraphical codes54 based upon signals representing values of exercise metrics may be carried out with little processing and with a relatively small amount of power consumption, existing fitness equipment units lacking substantial processing, data transmission capability or power availability may be easily modified or adapted to be incorporated as part of asystem20. As a result, the results of an exercise session on such fitness equipment units may be evaluated under a fitness program and may be possibly utilized for adjustment of a fitness routine or program.
• FIG. 5 schematically illustratesexercise system200.Exercise system200 comprises exercisemetric output system220, an example implementation of exercisemetric output system20, portableelectronic device300 andremote computing device302. Exercisemetric output system220 is similar to exercisemetric output system20 except that exercisemetric output system220 is specifically illustrated as includingsensor260,battery262 andsolar cell264. Those remaining components ofsystem220 which correspond tosystem20 are numbered similarly.
• Sensor260 comprises one or more sensors to detect movement of the one or moremovable members52. In one implementation,sensor260 may comprise one or more sensors to sense or detect values for exercise parameters or metrics such as a speed at whichmovable member52 is being moved, and acceleration ofmovable member52, a time duration of movement of whomember52, a level of resistance against movement ofmove member52, a time of day or a date at which the exercise was initiated or completed, a number of repetitions or a number of sets of repetitions completed, and a range or distance through whichmovable member52 has been moved. In one implementation,sensor260 may comprise a photo or optical sensor having a photo emitter and photodetector. In another implementation,sensor260 may comprise a reed switch, wherein the switch is actuated in response to a changing magnetic field. In other implementations,sensor260 may comprise other forms of sensors relying upon optics, magnetics and the like.
• Battery262 comprises a self-contained source of electrical power.Battery262 supplies electrical power tosensor260,display40 andcontroller50. In one implementation,battery262 is movable replaceable. In one implementation,battery262 is additionally rechargeable.Battery262 facilitate use of upsystem220 circumstances where connection to an electrical outlet is difficult or impossible. In some implementations,battery262 may be omitted.
• Solar cells264 comprise one or more devices to capture or harness solar power for use in poweringsensor260,display40 andcontroller50 and/or for use in chargingbattery262. In one implementation,solar cells264 comprise photovoltaic cells. In other implementations,solar cells264 may comprise other forms of solar or light harnessing devices for generating electrical power or charge for use bysystem220. In other implementations,solar cells264 may be omitted.
• Portableelectronic device300 comprises a portable handheld electronic device configured to capturegraphical code54 presented ondisplay40. Examples of such a portable electronic device (PED)300 include, but are not limited to, a smart phone, a personal data assistant (PDA), laptop, notebook computer, tablet computer (e.g. IPAD) and MP3 player (e.g., IPOD TOUCH). In the example illustrated,PED300 comprisesinput304,display306,code capture device308,communication device310 andcontroller312. In other implementations,PED300 may comprise a fewer or greater of such components so long asPED300 includescode capture device308.
• Input304 comprises a user interface forPED300 by which inputs are made toPED300.Input304 facilitates entry of inputs or commands by a person to initiate the capture ofgraphical code54 bycode capture device308 and two initiate transmission of the captured graphical54 or in a translatedgraphical code54 bycommunication device310. Input304 may additionally or alternatively facilitate viewing of a translated graphical54 or the viewing of an overall exercise routine or program, exercise instructions or modifications to the overall exercise routine or program based upon the translatedgraphical code54 representing values or results for an exercise metric of an exercise session that has just been completed. In one implementation,input304 comprise a keyboard. In other implementations,input304 may comprise a touchpad, a stylus, a microphone with associated speech recognition software or programming, a touch screen, buttons, switches and the like. In some implementations,input304 may comprise a touch screen incorporated as part ofdisplay306.
• Display306 comprises a user interface by which graphical or textual data is presented to a user. In one implementation,display306 comprises a liquid crystal display. In other implementations,display306 may comprise other types of display technology such as a light emitting diode display, an organic light emitting diode display (OLED), an electronic ink (e-ink) display or other types of display technology in present use or developed in the future.
• Code capture device308 comprises a device configured to capture or read the image of thegraphical code54 presented on display40 (without being physically connected to controller50). In one implementation,code capture device304 comprises a camera, such as a camera including charge coupled devices or sensors arranged in a two-dimensional array or a cell phone or smart phone camera. In other implementations,code capture device308 may comprise a charge coupled device reader, a pen-type reader comprising a light source and photo diode detecting the intensity of light reflected fromgraphical code54, a laser scanner using a photo diode to measure intensity of light reflected fromgraphical code54, an omnidirectional scanner or other types of presently use or future developed image capturing devices.
• Communication device310 comprises device configured to facilitate the transmission of the capturedgraphical code54 or a translation of the capturedgraphical code54 to external destinations such asremote computing device302. In some implementations,communication device310 additionally facilitates the receipt of translatedgraphical code54, after graphical54 has been transmitted to an external or remote recipient or server that performs the translation. In one implementation,communication device3110 facilitates the receipt of instructions or overall workout routine adjustments that are based in part upon the values represented by thegraphical code54.
• In one implementation,communication device310 comprises a wired port or wired connection. In another implementation,communication device3 and10 comprises a wireless communication device configured to transmit data in a wireless fashion. In some implementations wherecommunication device310 itself translates and utilizesgraphical code54,communication device310 may be omitted.
• Controller312 comprises generate control signals directing the operation of portableelectronic device300.Controller312 comprises processingunit316 andmemory318.Processing unit316 receivesgraphical code54. In one implementation,processing unit316 facilitates forwarding of the receivedgraphical code54 bycommunication device310 for translation in use remote fromPED300. In another implementation,processing unit316 translatesgraphical code54 to the one or more values for the one or more exercise metrics prior to forwarding the translated graphical code usingcommunication device310. In yet other implementations, processingunit316 translatesgraphical code54 and utilizes the translated graphical54 in one or more fashions such as storing the translatedgraphical code54, providing encouragement or suggesting workout changes communicated throughdisplay306 based upon the translatedgraphical code54 and the values for the exercise metrics. In some implementations, processingunit316 may simply store the untranslatedgraphical code54, wherein the untranslatedgraphical code54 is later retrieved whenPED300 is subsequently placed in communication with an external recipient that is to translate thegraphical code54.
• Memory318 comprises a non-transient computer-readable medium or persistent storage device configured to store software, programming, computer readable instructions and/or data. In the example illustrated,memory318stores instructions320,exercise program322 and results324.Instructions320 comprise computer-readable code or programming configured direct the operation ofprocessing unit316. In one implementation, such instructionsdirect processing unit316 in the translation ofgraphical code54 to the values for the exercise metrics being represented bygraphical code54.Such instructions320 further direct the other various operations for processingunit316 described above as well as other operations for processingunit316 pertain to the general use ofPED300.
• In one implementation, part ofsuch instructions320 may comprise a downloaded application for collecting graphical codes and manipulating the information from the graphical codes. For example, the supplier or manufacturer ofsystem220 may offer an application that exercisers may download for this purpose. Although some smartphones IPODs or other PEDs may have QR Code readers or other graphical code readers, they may still lack specialized software or an application that is targeted toward manipulating the data/information from the QR codes or other graphical codes that are read by the smart phone, IPOD or other PED.
• Exercise programs322 comprise one or more applications or programs indicating recommended settings or workout parameters to be used by a person exercising so as to achieve an exercise objective or exercise or fitness target or goal. Using the data contained insuch exercise programs322,controller316, followinginstructions320, displays variousrecommendations using display306. In some implementations, the values or parameters for an exercise routine or program may be adjusted based upon translated graphical codes54 (actual exercise results or exercise values indicated by the translated graphical codes54). In some implementations, such exercise programs may not be stored onPED300.
• Results324 comprise stored results from an exercise session. In one implementation, results324 may comprise stored translated graphical codes54 (the actual exercise values for the exercise metrics). In another implementation, results324 merely comprise the untranslatedgraphical code54, wherein the untranslatedgraphical code54 is to be subsequently translated. In some implementations, results324 may not be stored inmemory318 ofPED300.
• Remote computing device302 comprises one or more computing devices remote with respect tofitness equipment unit24. In one implementation,remote computing device302 may comprise a computing device at a fitness facility separate fromfitness equipment unit24. In another implementation,remote computing device302 may comprise a computing device, such as a server, remote from the fitness facility housing or containingfitness equipment unit24. In one implementation,remote computing device302 may be provided at a central facility servicing multiple fitness facilities at multiple geographic locations. In one implementation, the central facility may be provided by a center for an organization of multiple fitness facilities. In another implementation, the central facility may be provided by the manufacturer or supplier offitness equipment unit24, providing enhanced capabilities for bothfitness communities24 provided by the manufacturer or supplier of thefitness equipment unit24. In still other implementations,remote computing device302 may be provided as part of another fitness equipment unit distinct fromfitness community24, wherein the other fitness equipment unit has the higher end computing, data storage or data transmission capability for processing, storing and transmitting the translated or untranslatedgraphical code54. For example, in one implementation, fitness orquery unit24 may be an unpowered standalone weightlifting device, whereinPED300 may transfer the displayed results in the form ofgraphical code54 to another exercise machine, such as an elliptical machine treadmill, stair stepper, adaptive motion machine and the like, which has the ability to store, process or transmit the results from the weightlifting device represented by thegraphical code54.
• In the example illustrated,remote computing device302 comprisescommunication device330,controller332 andmemory room334 storing anexercise programs336 and exercise results338.Communication device330 comprises a device configured to facilitate communication betweenremote computing device302 and portableelectronic device300. Theconfiguration communication device330 may depend upon the configuration ofcommunication device310.Communication device330 facilitates the receipt of either an untranslatedgraphical code54 fromPED300 or a translatedgraphical code54 fromPED300, depending upon the implementation.Communication device330 further facilitates the transmission of a translation of a received untranslatedgraphical code54 toPED300 and/or the transmission of exercise routine adjustments toPED300 based upon the values represented bygraphical code54. In one implementation,communication device330 comprises a wired port or wired connection. In another implementation,communication device330 comprises a wireless communication device configured to transmit data in a wireless fashion.
• Controller332 comprises one or more processing units configured to carry out operations ofserver302. In one implementation,controller332, following instructions contained inmemory334, may be configured to receive an untranslatedgraphical code54 and carry out a translation of thegraphical code54 to the corresponding values for the one or more exercise metrics. In one implementation,controller332 basically receive already translatedgraphical codes54. Using the values represented by thegraphical codes54,controller332 may adjust existing or ongoing exercise programs or routines stored inmemory336.Controller332 may further store the exercise values (results338). As a result,controller3 through two may provide access to such results to other portable electronic devices or through other computing devices connected toserver302 across a network, such as a local area network or the Internet.
• FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of anexample method400 that may be carried out bysystem200. As indicated bystep402,controller50 generatesgraphical code54 based upon values for one or more exercise metrics received either fromsensor260 or from fitness equipment unit24 (such as where the values are user selected parameter settings which are not sensed). In one implementation, in addition to being based upon the values for the one or more exercise metrics,graphical code54 may additionally be based upon other information such as the identity of thefitness equipment unit24 and/or the identity or characteristics pertaining to the person exercising. Comment: it might be useful to have an additional figure that shows a flow chart of qr codes and next to each qr code is a translation of the coded information.Box1 is the initial qr code of a controller indicating that the feu associated with this controller is a chest press and maybe some instructional information, then the next qr code might be john smith just completed a first set on the chest press, 10 reps at 180 lbs. The user's name may not be included, if the controller and FEU are not configured to receive that info. It would just say set completed, 10 reps at 180 lbs on the chest press. The next one could be an image after a second set on the chest press, the next image shows the next strength machine, a bicep curl. Then, the next image is John Smith completed a set on the bicep curl, etc. . . . I think this will help to express the concept. We could even ask Nathan to give us the actual correct QR codes to add to the figure. That way if someone took the image on their smart phone it would say the same thing that the box next to the qR code on the Figure says. Like in the invention disclosure where Nathan had the QR code that when you captured it on your smart phone said “hi Jim” or something like that.
• As indicated bystep404, in response to input throughinput304, processingunit316 directscode capture device308 to capture the image of the generatedgraphical code54. Such may be achieved by the person positioning the lens or other opening of thecode capture device308 in close proximity to and opposite to display40 whiledisplay40 is presenting the image of thegraphical code54. User may then initiate the captured usinginput304, similar to a person opening the shutter of a camera.
• As indicated bystep406, the capturedgraphical code54 is translated to the one or more values for the one or more exercise metrics. In one implementation, such translation may be carried out bycontroller312. In another implementation, such translation to be carried out by aremote computing device302 after the untranslatedgraphical code54 has been transmitted thereto. In such a case, theremote computing device302 transmits the translated graphical code54 (the values for the one or more exercise metrics) back toPED300.
• As indicated bystep408, the translated graphical code (the values for the one or more exercise metrics of the particular exercise session) is displayed for review by the person who had adjust completed the exercise session. In one implementation, the values are displayed ondisplay306 by processingunit316. As a result, person exercising may see a tally of the complete exercise session that has been captured. For example, the person may view the number of repetitions, the time to complete the number of repetitions, the resistance or weight of each repetition and/or a distant through which each weight has been moved through one or more of the repetitions. In other implementations, values for other exercise metrics may be displayed. In some implementations,step408 may be omitted.
• As indicated bystep410, the translated graphical code54 (the values for the one or more exercise metrics of the particular exercise session) is stored. In one implementation, the values are stored asresults324 inmemory312 by processingunit316. In another implementation, the values may alternatively or additionally be stored asresults338 inmemory334 bycontroller332.
• As indicated bystep412, the translated graphical code orcodes54 are used to adjust the overall exercise routine or fitness program. In one implementation, the translated graphical code orcodes54 are used by processingunit316, followinginstructions320, to adjust one or more exercise routines orprograms322 stored inmemory312. In another implementation, the translated graphical code orcodes54 are used bycontroller332 atremote computing device302 to adjust one or more exercise routines orprograms336 stored inmemory334. In yet other implementations,step412 may be omitted.
• As indicated bystep414,PED300 displays the adjusted exercise routine or program ondisplay306. As a result, the person exercising is advised as how to adjust remaining exercise sessions on the samefitness equipment unit24 or how to adjust exercise parameters or exertion levels on other fitness equipment units which are part of the overall fitness program. In some implementations,step414 may be omitted.
• FIG. 7 is a flow diagram of an example method420 that may be carried out bysystem200. The left side ofFIG. 7 illustrates various steps of method420 while the right side ofFIG. 7 illustrates examples of corresponding resulting visible displays of such steps.FIG. 7 illustrates an example wherein results for various exercise metrics associated with weightlifting machines or weightlifting fitness equipment units is output storage and use. In other implementations, the steps identified on the right side ofFIG. 7 may be carried out with other fitness equipment units. In other implementations, less than all of the illustrated steps on the right side ofFIG. 7 may be carried out.
• As indicated bystep422,controller50 generates an introductory graphical code and generates controlsignals causing display40 to visibly present the graphical code (exemplified on the right side ofFIG. 7 with graphical code424 shown as a QR code). In one implementation, the generation and display of the introductorygraphical code424A may be continuous while the particularfitness equipment unit24 is not being used. In another implementation, the generation and display of the introductory graphical code424 may occur in response to the sensed presence of a person in proximity tofitness equipment unit24. In yet another implementation, the generation and display of the introductorygraphical code424A may occur in response to a person entering his or her identification to a reader or other input associated with fitness equipment unit24 (when so equipped). In such an implementation, the person's identification may be codified into the presentedgraphical code424A, allowing the person to confirm the proper entry of his or her identification information.
• As indicated bystep426,code capture device308 captures an image of the intrographical code424A displayed ondisplay40. As further indicated bystep426, the capturedintro code424A is then translated and displayed ondisplay306. In one implementation,processing unit316, followinginstructions320, translates the intrographical code424A, the translation of which is then displayed ondisplay306. In another implementation, the captured intro graphical code may be transmitted to another computing device, such asremote computing device302 which performs the translation and returns the translated information back toPED300 for display bydisplay306.
• As shown on the corresponding right side ofFIG. 7, the translation ofgraphical code424A results in the presentation of an introductory or instructional message ondisplay306. In the example illustrated, the message428A produced in response to a translation ofgraphical code424A comprises a fitnessequipment unit identifier430A, auser identification confirmation432 and an instructional portion434A. The fitnessequipment unit identifier430A identifies the type of fitness equipment unit (“chest press” in the example) as well as a specific SKU identifier (number C404EC) specifically identifying the particular chest press machine. Other specific identifier such as a serial number, and also be used as part of the specific identifier for the fitness equipment unit identified in message428A. Theuser identification confirmation432 has a greeting portion along with an identification of the user about to use the particular fitness equipment unit as input by the person at the particular fitness equipment unit or as by otherwise determined by the fitness equipment unit. As noted above, in some implementations, they identification of the person about to use a particular fitness equipment unit may be omitted. The instructional portion434A provides instructions as to how to use the particular fitness equipment unit, providing information such as proper technique or safety precautions.
• In other implementations, the information presented as a result of the translation of the intrographical code424A may comprise less information or greater amounts of the same or other information. In one implementation, the contents of message428A are entirely derived from the translation of the introductorygraphical code424A. In other words, all of the information of message428A is codified as part ofgraphical code424A. In another implementation, the translation of introductorygraphical code424A merely comprises an address (either a local address in thememory318 ofPED300 or a remote address such as an address in memory334 a remote computing device302), whereinPED300 utilizes the address from the translation to retrieve and display the contents of message428A. In yet another implementation, the contents of message428A may be derived from both the translation ofgraphical code424A and from information retrieved from an address identified by the translation ofgraphical code424A. In some implementations, steps422 and426 may be omitted.
• Steps436 and438 substantially correspond to steps402-410 ofmethod400. As indicated bystep436,controller50 receives signals representing different values for one or more exercise metrics and generatesgraphical code54 based upon such values for the one or more exercise metrics. As indicated bystep438,code capture device308 captures an image of the dynamic exercise metricgraphical code54A (an example ofgraphical code54 described above) displayed ondisplay40. As further indicated bystep426, the capturedcode54A is then translated and displayed ondisplay306. In one implementation,processing unit316, followinginstructions320, translates thegraphical code54A, the translation of which is then displayed ondisplay306. In another implementation, the captured intro graphical code may be transmitted to another computing device, such asremote computing device302 which performs the translation and returns the translated information back toPED300 for display bydisplay306.
• As shown on the corresponding right side ofFIG. 7, the translation ofgraphical code54A results in the presentation ofexercise results440A ondisplay306. In the example illustrated, the presented exercise results440 comprises a fitness equipment unit identifier430 (described above), an exercise grouping or setidentifier442, the resistance or weightmetric value443, a distance or repetitionmetric value444, and elapsed time or durationmetric value445, adate stamp value446 and atimestamp value447. The exercise grouping or setidentifier442 identifies particular grouping or set/subset of the exercise session for which results are being presented.
• Metric value443 comprise a resistance value for the exercise. In the example illustrated, the value is 180 pounds, which may read by the amount of resistance or the amount of weight being moved each repetition. In other fitness equipment units, the resistance may be the amount of is applied against movement of a movable member, such as against movement of a pedal or other structure. Such a metric value may be preset as by the machine or user or may vary. In implementations where the value of the resistance may vary during a single unit, such as during a single repetition, thevalue443 may represent a statistical value, such as a mean or average of the resistance during individual unit or repetition.
• Metric value444 indicates the number of units completed during a particular set or exercise session. In the example illustrated in which the exercise is lifting weights on a chest press,value444 identifies a number of units (repetitions) in theparticular set442. With other types of fitness equipment units, this metric may alternatively comprise a distance, such as the number of miles run, road, climbed or otherwise traversed.
• Durationmetric value445 comprises an elapsed amount of time consumed during completion of the number of units are repetitions. In the example illustrated, metric value445 (14 seconds) identifies the elapsed time you lies completing the 12 repetitions. In other implementations with other fitness equipment unit,duration metric445 may indicate the elapsed time consumed during completion of theunits444, such as the amount of time consumed to complete a run of a certain number of miles.
• Date stamp446 andtimestamp447 identify the date and time at which an exercise session is taking place. In one implementation, such values may correspond to the time at which an exercise session is started. In another implementation, such values may correspond to the time at which an exercise session is completed. In other implementations, one or more of the pieces of information illustrated in the example result440A may be omitted. In some implementations, other information may also be presented as part ofresults440A.
• As further shown on the corresponding far right side ofFIG. 7, in some implementations, processingunit316, followinginstructions320 andprogram322, may additionally present exercise routine orexercise program instructions450A ondisplay306.Such instructions450A may be present concurrently or sequentially with respect toresults440A. In the example,such instructions450A are adjusted are based uponresults443.Such instructions450A may provide encouragement as well as instruct the person exercising as to which one or more user selectable parameters or metrics values should be used during the next exercise session or sub session (set) and when the next session or set should be initiated. In the example illustrated, theobstruction450A instructs the user to begin the next set in 15 seconds with a user selected resistance of 200 pounds and with a target or goal of 10 units or repetitions in the set. Depending upon exercise routine, such instructions may vary.
• Steps452 and454 are carried out when the person exercising completes a second group or set on the samefitness equipment unit24.Step4 and524 and54 are identical tosteps436 and438 except that they are carried out respect to the second group or set of exercise units (repetitions) carried out on the same fitness equipment unit. As illustrated on the right side ofFIG. 7 corresponding to step452, controller50 (shownFIG. 5) generatedgraphical code424B (a QR code in the example illustrated) based upon signals representing values one or more exercise metrics during the second set.
• As illustrated on the right side ofFIG. 7 corresponding to step454, the capture and translation of thegraphical code424B results in the example results440B being displayed ondisplay306 and being stored in one or more memories. In the example illustrated, results440B include values for the same metrics as presented inresults440A. In the example illustrated, results440B indicate that duringset2 on chest press C404EC, the user lifted 200 pounds for 10 reps during atime period 18 seconds.Set2 took place on Apr. 16, 2012 and occurred (initiated or completed, depending upon the particular implementation) at 2:23 PM. As further illustrate on the right sideFIG. 7, processingunit316 may additionally presentinstructions450B.Instruction450B and be based upon an evaluation or analysis of the just completedresults440B with respect to the overall exercise program or whether exercise targets or objectives for the particular session, day, week or month have or are being met. The present case, the objectives were met, resulting in praise. In addition,instruction450B may instruct the person as to what exercise machine should be utilized next pursuant toprogram322 on PED300 (shown inFIG. 5). In other implementations,instructions450B may be omitted.
• Steps462,466,476 and478 essentially correspond tosteps422,426,436 and438, respectively, but for being carried out with respect to a different fitness equipment unit of fitness equipment machine. In the example illustrated, such steps are carried out with respect to a fitness equipment unit (FEU2) comprising an arm curl machine. As illustrated on the right side ofFIG. 7 corresponding to step462,controller50 of the arm curlfitness equipment unit24 generates control signals causing introductorygraphical code424B to be displayed ondisplay306 of the arm curlfitness equipment unit24. Introductory graphical code424 and its presentation are identical to the presentation ofgraphical code424A above except thatgraphical code424B comprises codified information pertaining to the second fitness equipment unit, the arm curl fitness equipment unit.
• As indicated bystep466,code capture device308 captures an image of the intrographical code424B displayed ondisplay40. As further indicated bystep466, the capturedintro code424B is then translated and displayed ondisplay306. In one implementation,processing unit316, followinginstructions320, translates the intrographical code424B, the translation of which is then displayed ondisplay306. In another implementation, the captured intro graphical code may be transmitted to another computing device, such asremote computing device302 which performs the translation and returns the translated information back toPED300 for display bydisplay306.
• As illustrated on the right side ofFIG. 7 corresponding to step466, the translation of graphical code424 results in the presentation of an introductory or instructional message ondisplay306. In the example illustrated, the message428B produced in response to a translation ofgraphical code424B comprises a fitnessequipment unit identifier430B, auser identification confirmation432 and aninstructional portion434B. The fitnessequipment unit identifier430B identifies the type of fitness equipment unit (“bicep curl” in the example) as well as a specific identifier (number C204EC) specifically identifying the particular bicep curl machine. Other specific identifier such as a serial number, and also be used as part of the specific identifier for the fitness equipment unit identified in message428B. Theuser identification confirmation432 has a greeting portion along with an identification of the user about to use the particular fitness equipment unit as input by the person at the particular fitness equipment unit or as by otherwise determined by the fitness equipment unit. As noted above, in some implementations, the identification of the person about to use a particular fitness equipment unit may be omitted. Theinstructional portion434B provides instructions as to how to use the particular fitness equipment unit, providing information such as proper technique or safety precautions.
• In other implementations, the information presented as a result of the translation of the intrographical code424B may comprise less information or greater amounts of the same or other information. In one implementation, the contents of message428B are entirely derived from the translation of the introductorygraphical code424B. In other words, all of the information of message428B is codified as part ofgraphical code424B. In another implementation, the translation of introductorygraphical code424B merely comprises an address (either a local address in thememory318 ofPED300 or a remote address such as an address in memory334 a remote computing device302), whereinPED300 utilizes the address from the translation to retrieve and display the contents of message428B. In yet another implementation, the contents of message428B may be derived from both the translation ofgraphical code424B and from information retrieved from an address identified by the translation ofgraphical code424B. In some implementations, steps462 and466 may be omitted.
• Steps476 and478 identical tosteps436 and438, respectively, except that steps476 and478 pertain to the outputting and capturing of values or results for one or more exercise metrics on the second fitness equipment unit, the arm curl machine in the example. In the example, As indicated bystep476,controller50 receive signals representing different values for one or more exercise metrics and generatesgraphical code54C based upon such values for the one or more exercise metrics. As indicated bystep478,code capture device308 captures an image of the dynamic exercise metricgraphical code54C (an example ofgraphical code54 described above) displayed ondisplay40. As further indicated bystep476, the capturedcode54C is then translated and displayed ondisplay306. In one implementation,processing unit316, followinginstructions320, translates thegraphical code54C, the translation of which is then displayed ondisplay306. In another implementation, the captured intro graphical code may be transmitted to another computing device, such asremote computing device302 which performs the translation and returns the translated information back toPED300 for display bydisplay306.
• As shown on the corresponding right side ofFIG. 7, the translation ofgraphical code54C results in the presentation of exercise results440C ondisplay306. In the example illustrated, the presentedexercise results440C comprises a fitnessequipment unit identifier430B (described above), an exercise grouping or setidentifier442, the resistance or weightmetric value443, a distance or repetitionmetric value444, and elapsed time or durationmetric value445, adate stamp value446 and atimestamp value447. In the example illustrated, results440C indicate that duringset1 on arm or bicep curl C204EC, the user lifted 40 pounds for 9.5 reps during atime period 20 seconds.Set1 took place on Apr. 16, 2012 and occurred (initiated or completed, depending upon the particular implementation) at 2:30 PM.
• In the example illustrated, a partial repetition may mean that the repetition was not complete. In other words, during one of the repetitions, the resistance or weight being lifted (40 pounds) was not moved through a distance (or angle) sufficient to qualify as a complete repetition. For example, the weights being lifted may only been lifted half the distance (or angle) sufficient (greater than a predefined threshold distance) to constitute a full arm curl repetition. In essence, results224 indicate a value for a distance metric through which the weight has been moved. In other implementations, the results, as translated from agraphical code54, may specifically identify a numerical value for such distance rather than a percentage of a predefined threshold distance for a unit. For example, a distance for arm curl may be identified by the degrees of an arc through which the weight is been curled. A distance for a chest press may be the vertical linear distance through which a weight has been moved.
• As further shown on the corresponding far right side ofFIG. 7, in some implementations, processingunit316, followinginstructions320 andprogram322, may additionally present exercise routine orexercise program instructions450C ondisplay306.Such instructions450A may be present concurrently or sequentially with respect toresults440A. In the example,such instructions450A are adjusted are based uponresults440C.Such instructions450C may provide encouragement as well as instruct the person exercising as to which one or more user selectable parameters or metrics values should be used during the next exercise session or sub session (set) and when the next session or set should be initiated. In the example illustrated, theobstruction450C instructs the user to begin the next set in 25 seconds with a user selected resistance of 30 pounds and with a target or goal of 12 units or repetitions in the set. Depending upon exercise routine, such instructions may vary.
• In other implementations, a singlegraphical code54 may provide information for multiple sets on a particular exercise machine orfitness equipment unit24.FIG. 8 illustrate an examplegraphical code54D along with the translated content ofgraphical code54D as presented ondisplay306. In the example illustrated, the translation ofgraphical code54D results in information being presented and stored which indicates that the exercise was performed on a lateral raise fitness equipment unit with an SKU of C504E. The information or content further indicates that a first set of 10 repetitions at 150 pounds was completed, a second set of 10 repetitions at 150 pounds was completed and a third set of 8 repetitions at 170 pounds was completed. The translated content indicates that the exercise took place on Apr. 16, 2012 at 3:20 PM. In such an implementation, steps436,438,452 and454 may be consolidated into two steps: a step for generating a single graphical code such asgraphical code54D and a step for capturing and translating the graphical code whilst displaying of storing the results for the multiple sets of repetitions.
• FIG. 9 schematically illustrates exercisemetric output system520, an example implementation of exercisemetrics output systems20 and220. Exercisemetric output system520 is similar tooutput system220 except thatoutput system520 is specifically illustrated as comprisingfitness equipment unit524 forfitness equipment unit24 and as additionally includinginput568. Those remaining components or elements of asystem520 which correspond to elements ofoutput system220 are numbered similarly.
• Fitness equipment unit524 comprisesweight system570, cable system572 and exercise interfacemovable members574.Weight system570 comprises a system providing a plurality of selectable weight that may be utilized and ultimately lifted in an exercise.Weight system570 generally includesframe576, a stack of individuallyselectable weights578,weight selection system580 andweight lift582.
• Frame576 comprises one or more structures movably supporting and guiding the stack ofweights578.Weights578 comprise structures having predetermined weight amounts which are configured to be raised and lowered in the direction indicated byarrows583 so as to provide a mechanical resistance in an exercise. In the particular example illustrated,weights578 each comprise a solid or hollow plate of one or more metals. In other embodiments,weights30 may comprise other materials or may comprise encapsulated materials, such as sand, water or other materials. Weights were578 are stacked upon one another such that as aparticular weight578 is being lifted,other weights578 stacked upon theparticular weight578 are also lifted.
• Weight selection system580 comprises a mechanism configured to permit a person to select one or more ofweights578 for lifting during an exercise.Weight selection system580 includes aselector584 configured selectively couple one of theweights578 toweight lift582. In one implementation,selector584 may comprise a pin movably positioned within a corresponding cavity of a selected one ofweights578 and into a corresponding aperture inweight lift582. In other implementations,selector584 may have other configurations.
• For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” shall mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. The term “operably coupled” shall mean that two members are directly or indirectly joined such that motion may be transmitted from one member to the other member directly or via intermediate members.
• Weight lift582 comprises a structure coupled toweight selection system580 which is connected to cable system572. In one embodiment,weight lift582 may itself comprise a shaft or rod connected to a cable. In other implementations,weight lift582 may have other configurations.
• Cable system572 comprises a system of pulleys and cables configured to operably couple weight lift582 (and any connected weights578) to exercise interfacemovable members574. Cable system572 may have any of a variety of different sizes, shapes and configurations depending upon exercise interfacemovable members574. In other embodiments, exercise interfacemovable members574 may be operably coupled toweight system570 by other mechanisms.
• Exercise interfacemovable members574 comprise devices or mechanisms operably coupled to cable system572 by which one or more persons may exert force against one or more structures and may move the one or more structures to raise or lift a selected amount of weight provided byweights30578. Exercise interfacemovable members574 may have various configurations depending upon which particular muscles or groups of muscles are to be exercised. Examples of exercise interfacemovable members574 include, but are not limited to the following types of exercise machines: abdominal isolator, angled seated calf, abductor, seated leg curl, glute isolator, vertical and horizontal, rear delt/pec fly, lateral raise, shoulder press, vertical press, back extension, seated row, vertical row, pull down, long pull, seated dip, seated tricep extension, bicep curl, camber curl and chest press. Exercise interfacemovable members574 may be provided as part of a multi-station exercise machine, a modular exercise machine or a single station exercise machine.
• As shown byFIG. 9,solar cell264, which rechargesbattery262, is mounted to a top or upwardly facing surface offrame576. As a result,solar cell264 is best suited to capture light, from overhead lighting, for supplying the relatively low power demands ofsystem520. As further shown byFIG. 9, in the example illustrated,display40,controller50,sensor260,battery262,solar cell264 andinput568 are provided as a self-containedmodule590 adapted to be mounted toframe576. As a result,module590 enable a pre-existing stand-alonefitness equipment unit524 to be easily modified for outputting values for one or more exercise metrics.
• FIG. 10 schematically illustrates exercisemetric output system620, the particular example ofsystem520. Exercisemetric output system620 is identical to exercisemetric output system520 except thatsystem620 specifically includessensor660.Sensor660 comprisesmagnets662 and reed switches664.Magnets662 comprise individual magnetic members, eachmagnet662 carried by an associatedweight578.Magnets662 have a sufficiently strong magnetic field so as to actuatereed switch664 assuch magnets662 are moved past and acrossreed switch664.
• Reed switches664 comprise electrical switches supported byframe576 proximate to and vertically alongweights578 and their associatedmagnets662. Eachreed switch664 is operated by an applied magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field (from an electromagnet or a permanent magnet) causes reeds ofswitch664 to come together, thus completing an electrical circuit. The stiffness of the reeds causes them to separate, and open the circuit, when the magnetic field ceases. In another implementation, a non-ferrous normally-closed contact that opens when the ferrous normally-open contact closes may be utilized. In yet other implementations,reed switch664 may utilize mercury “wetted” contacts. In operation,weights662 are raise or lowered past areed switch664, an electrical circuit is repeatedly opening closed to indicate the number ofweights578 being lifted. In the example illustrated, becausesensor660 includes multiple vertically arrangedreed switches664, the distance at whichweights578 is lifted may also be detected. In other implementations,sensor660 may comprise asingle reed switch664.
• FIG. 11 illustrates exercisemetric output system720, another example implementation of exercisemetric output system220.System720 is identical tosystem220 except thatsystem720 specifically includesdisplay740,input768 and portableelectronic device800. In the example illustrated,input768 comprises a start or beginbutton770 and a finished, complete or done thebutton772. When a person is to begin an exercise session for which a graphical code is to be generated, the person to exercise presses or otherwise actuates thebegin button770. This results in the sensing and transmission of signals representing values of one or more exercise metrics to begin. When the person exercising presses the donebutton772, such signal transmission is terminated or such signals are no longer used in the generation of a graphical code. In one implementation where weights are repeatedly lifted (repetitions), the donebutton772 is pressed when a set of repetitions completed. In another implementation where weights are repeatedly lifted, the donebutton772 is pressed after a predefined number of sets of repetitions has been completed. In such an implementation, individual sets are identified when a predefined minimum time delay threshold between consecutive repetitions has been satisfied. In another implementation, a user presses the start button at the beginning and then presses stop when done, regardless or repetitions or sets. In this case, the device displaying the graphical code will use an algorithm to determine sets. For instance, a pause of more than 15 seconds becomes the start of a new set of repetitions. In some implementations, when the donebutton772 is not depressed or otherwise actuated after predetermined time,controller50 automatically deems an individual workout set or session to of been completed.
• As shown byFIG. 10,display740, in response to signals from a fitness equipment unit24 (or524) representing values of one or more exercise metrics, and in response to control signals from controller50 (shown inFIGS. 5 and 8), presents a generatedgraphical code54A. Once thegraphical code54A has been presented, portableelectronic device800 may be used to capture the presentedgraphical code54A.
• In the example illustrated, portableelectronic device800 comprisesinput804,display306 andcode capture device308, in addition to the other components shown and described above with respect toFIG. 5. Input804 comprise a push button that may utilize initiate the capture ofgraphical code54A bycode capture device308. In one implementation,input804 may be incorporated as part of a touchscreen withdisplay306.Code capture device308 comprises a camera (the lens of which is shown). Although shown is a front positioned camera,code capture device308 may alternatively be located on a backside of portableelectronic device800, opposite to and facing away fromdisplay306. The example illustrated, upon capture ofgraphical code54A, processingunit316 causes the capturedgraphical code54A to be presented upondisplay306, confirming such capture. As noted above with respect to amethod400 inFIG. 6, the capturedgraphical code54A, representing values for one or more exercise metrics, may be translated, stored and used to adjust an overall exercise routine.
• Although the use of a dynamically generated and displayed graphical code to output dynamically changing information or data in response to changes in the information, (whether such changes are the result of input by a person or sensed by a sensor) has been described with respect to a fitness equipment unit or exercise machine, in other implementations, the use of dynamically generated and displayed graphical codes to output dynamically changing information or data may be extended to other applications. For example, in other applications where it may be desirable to output dynamically changing information or data from a machine, device or environment for capture, use and possible transmission to a higher computing device for processing and storage, in those circumstances where such output is difficult due to insufficient power, processing or transmission capabilities of the machine, device or environment, the above-described output systems may be extended to such other machines, devices or environments. In terms of a specific example, such a device or machine having limited power, processing or wireless or wired transmission capabilities may be provided with a low-power, low-cost, low processing device which simply presents a graphical code based on sensed changes or user input changes in settings or parameters, wherein the graphical code may be subsequently captured by a portable electronic device, allowing the data represented by the graphical code to be easily transmitted, translated, stored and processed by another device having sufficient power and processing capabilities.
• Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example embodiments, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although different example embodiments may have been described as including one or more features providing one or more benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example embodiments or in other alternative embodiments. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example embodiments and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements.

Claims (43)

What is claimed is:

1. An apparatus comprising:

a display; and

a controller to receive signals representing different values for an exercise metric of a fitness equipment unit and to generate control signals causing the display to present different graphical codes based on the different values for the exercise metric.

2. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising a sensor to sense the exercise metric of the fitness equipment unit.

3. The apparatus ofclaim 2, wherein the sensor comprises a reed switch.

4. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the display and the controller are powered by a battery.

5. The apparatus ofclaim 4 further comprising a photovoltaic cell to recharge the battery.

6. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the graphical codes comprise quick response (QR) codes.

7. The apparatus ofclaim 1, when the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises motion of a movable member of the fitness equipment unit.

8. The apparatus ofclaim 7, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a number of repetitions of movement of the movable member.

9. The apparatus ofclaim 1, when the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a speed or a time duration of movement of the movable member.

10. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a level of resistance to movement of the movable member.

11. The apparatus ofclaim 10, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises which of a plurality of selectable weights of the fitness equipment unit has been selected.

12. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the graphical codes further indicate and identity of the fitness equipment unit. Another claim or a markush claim that lists user, etc.

13. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein the graphical codes further identify a day at which exercises performed.

14. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein each of the graphical codes represents at least two exercise metrics for the fitness equipment unit.

15. The apparatus ofclaim 1, wherein each of the graphical codes comprises a barcode.

16. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising the fitness equipment unit.

17. The apparatus ofclaim 16, wherein the display and the controller are removably mounted to the fitness equipment unit.

18. The apparatus ofclaim 16, wherein the fitness equipment unit comprises a stack of selectable weights to be repeatedly moved by a person during exercise and wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprise a selected weight of the stack of selectable weights and a number of times at which the selected weight has been lifted.

19. The apparatus ofclaim 18, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes further the comprises a distance at which the selectable weight has been lifted.

20. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising an input to indicate completion of an exercise, wherein the controller causes generation of a graphical code in response to the input indicating completion of the exercise.

21. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a code capture device to capture a digital image of each of the graphical codes; and

a non-transient computer-readable medium storing computer-readable code to translate the digital image of each of the different graphical codes into the different values for the exercise metric.

22. The apparatus ofclaim 21 further comprising a portable electronic device including the code capture device and the non-transient computer-readable medium.

23. The apparatus ofclaim 22 further comprising a remote computing device to receive signals from the portable electronic device representing the different values for the exercise metric and to transmit messages for display by the portable electronic device based upon the different values for the exercise metric.

24. The apparatus ofclaim 1 further comprising:

a portable electronic device comprising:

a portable electronic device display; and

a barcode reader.

25. The apparatus ofclaim 24 further comprising a remote computing device to receive signals from the portable electronic device representing the different values for the exercise metric and to transmit messages for display by the portable electronic device based upon the different values for the exercise metric.

26. A method comprising:

receiving signals representing different values for an exercise metric of a fitness equipment unit; and

generating and displaying different graphical codes based on different values received for the exercise metric.

27. The method ofclaim 26 further comprising sensing the exercise metric of the fitness equipment unit.

28. The method ofclaim 26 further comprising supplying all power for the generating and displaying of the different graphical codes from one or more local batteries.

29. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the graphical codes comprise quick response (QR) codes.

30. The method ofclaim 26, when the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises motion of a movable member of the fitness equipment unit.

31. The method ofclaim 30, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a number of repetitions of movement of the movable member.

32. The method ofclaim 26, when the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a speed or a time duration of movement of a movable member of the fitness equipment unit.

33. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises a level of resistance to movement of a movable member of the fitness grim unit.

34. The method ofclaim 33, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprises which of a plurality of selectable weights of the fitness equipment unit has been selected.

35. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the graphical codes further indicate and identity of the fitness equipment unit.

36. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the graphical codes further identify a day at which exercises performed.

37. The method ofclaim 26, wherein each of the graphical codes represents at least two exercise metrics for the fitness equipment unit.

38. The method ofclaim 26, wherein each of the graphical codes comprises a barcode.

39. The method ofclaim 26, wherein the fitness equipment unit comprises a stack of selectable weights to be repeatedly moved by a person during exercise and wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes comprise a selected weight of the stack of selectable weights and a number of times at which the selected weight has been lifted.

40. The method ofclaim 39, wherein the exercise metric represented by the graphical codes further the comprises a distance at which the selectable weight has been lifted.

41. The method ofclaim 26 further comprising inputting an indication of completion of an exercise, wherein the generation of one of the graphical codes is in response to the input indicating completion of the exercise.

42. The method ofclaim 26 further comprising reading the graphical code with a code reader of a portable electronic device to translate the graphical code into the different values.

43. The method ofclaim 42 further comprising:

transmitting the different values to a remote computing device and receiving signals from the remote computing device that are based upon the different values; and

displaying a message on the portable electronic device based upon the received signals.

Images