US20180345066A1 - Device for safely strengthening core muscles - Google Patents

Abstract

Systems and methods herein provide for safe and efficient strengthening of core muscles of a user. An example device can include various components for securing a user in a safe position, tilting the body of the user, and rotating the user in a manner that engages the desired muscle groups. The device can include electronically controlled actuators and/or electric motors for performing various motions associated with the user. A control unit can gather information regarding the user and the device to provide helpful information to the user or a caretaker. For example, the control unit can track progress over time, suggest the types and intensities of exercises for individual users, and prepare reports suitable for use in medical or insurance contexts.

Description

BACKGROUND
• The medical industry has been unable to provide a mechanism for safely strengthening the core muscles of all types of patients, including sick, weak, or physically disabled patients. Core-muscle strength is important for good health, as it contributes to mobility, posture, and the ability to carry out daily tasks.
• Traditional core-strengthening exercises require a high level of physical fitness to perform. For example, performing a sit-up requires a baseline level of abdominal strength, as well as lower body strength required to support or balance the rest of the body. Modifying a traditional core-strengthening exercise to make it easier to perform typically results in rendering the exercise ineffective.
• Other core-strengthening exercises are ineffective in that they target only a few of the many core muscles. The human body includes multiple core muscles that span the abdominal area, back area, and sides. An exercise that only focuses on one muscle group will not provide a full range of benefits to posture and mobility. Even high-performing athletes could benefit from a form of exercise that targets all of the core muscles rather than merely a few.
• Furthermore, some patients are simply unable to perform the exercises necessary to strengthen their core muscles. For example, a person suffering from lower-body paralysis or muscular dystrophy is unlikely to be able to perform enough useful exercise to improve their physical condition.
• As a result, a need exists for an improved mechanism for strengthening a person's core muscles. A need exists for a device that can service all types of people, ranging from athletes to the severely disabled, and provide measurable benefits.
SUMMARY
• It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the examples, as claimed.
• Systems and methods herein provide for safe and efficient strengthening of core muscles of a user. An example device can include various components for securing a user in a safe position, tilting the body of the user, and rotating the user in a manner that engages the desired muscle groups. The device can include electronically controlled actuators and/or electric motors for performing various motions associated with the user. A control unit can gather information regarding the user and the device to provide helpful information to the user or a caretaker. For example, the control unit can track progress over time, suggest the types and intensities of exercises for individual users, and prepare reports suitable for use in medical or insurance contexts.
• In one example, a device for strengthening core muscles of a user is provided. The device can include at least one support frame intended to rest on a flat surface such as the ground or a floor of a building. The device can also include a first rotating frame assembly. The first rotating frame is rotatably coupled to at least one support frame. A second rotating frame is rotatably coupled to the first frame, adding another degree of freedom to the device. A seat is coupled to the second rotating frame, such that the orientation of the second frame determines the orientation of the seat at any given time.
• In an example, the device includes an actuator coupled to at least one support frame, at one end, and coupled to the first rotating frame at another end. Based on the position of the actuator, extension and retraction of the actuator can cause the first rotating frame to rotate relative to at least one support frame. For example, extending the actuator can place the first frame in a first position, while retracting the actuator can place the first frame in a second position. In some examples, the first and second positions represent a 90-degree rotation of the first frame relative to one another. Of course, any intermediate position between the first and second positions can also be achieved via the actuator.
• In another example, the device includes an electric motor mounted on the first rotating frame. The electric motor can rotatably couple to the second rotating frame, such that activating the motor causes the second frame to rotate relative to the first frame. In one example, the electronic motor can rotate the second frame 360 degrees relative to the first frame, and can rotate the second frame either clockwise or counterclockwise.
• The seat of the device can include multiple adjustment points to accommodate users of different sizes. In one example, the seat includes a base portion, a back portion, and two opposing side portions. At least one of those side portions can be positionally adjustable relative to the base portion. For example, the side portions can slide along a track that causes the side portions to either reduce or expand the amount of space between them. The side portions can be adjusted to the user after the user is seated on the base portion. The seat can also include a restraining device that surrounds a portion of the user's body.
• The seat can also include adjustable knee restraints intended to restrain the user's knees while the device is being used. The knee restraints can be mounted on a slide that allow the restraints to be adjusted closer to, or further from, the base portion of the seat. In other examples, different adjustment mechanisms can be used, such as a screw drive or pneumatic piston. A foot rest can be used in conjunction with the seat to support the user. The foot rest can be mounted on the second rotating frame, such that it maintains its position relative to the seat and the user as the device rotates the first and/or second frames. The foot rest can include restraint devices for retaining the user's feet while the device is in use.
• In another example, a control unit is provided for managing the use of the device. The control unit can be a computing device associated with the exercise device, for example. The control unit can receive input from an operator, such as operating parameters. For example, the operator can select an angle of rotation for the first frame along with a rotation speed and direction for the second frame. The control unit can carry out these instructions after receiving them from the operator.
• The control unit can receive information from a variety of sources. For example, the control unit can receive input from a positional sensor associated with the first frame and a positional sensor associated with the second frame. Using these sensors, the control unit can calculate a current angle of inclination or rotation of either the first or second frame. The control unit can also receive information about the user based on various recognition methods. For example, the control unit can receive information from a scanner that scans a badge or bracelet of the patient. In another example, the control unit can sense the proximity of a user based on a near-field communication (“NFC”) device in the user's possession. In yet another example, the control unit can receive biometric data from the user. For example, the control unit can receive a BLUETOOTH signal that includes the user's heart rate, respiration rate, blood oxygen level, or any other biometric data.
• The control unit can store user-specific data in a repository. For example, the control unit can store information indicating the date, duration, intensity, and machine settings of any sessions performed by a particular user. The control unit can retrieve this information at future sessions and provide recommended session parameters based on that information. For example, the control unit can suggest rotation angles that only slightly exceed the previous session. The control unit can also cause reports to be generated. The reports can be formatted for specific purposes, such as for submitting to an insurance company to show a patient's improvement over time.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
• FIG. 1 is an exemplary illustration of example components of a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
• FIG. 2A is an exemplary illustration of example components of a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
• FIG. 2B is an exemplary illustration of example components a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user in a first position.
• FIG. 2C is an exemplary illustration of example components a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user in a second position.
• FIG. 3 is an exemplary illustration of a seat that can be used to support and restraint a user in conjunction with using the core-strengthening device.
• FIG. 4 is an exemplary system diagram for a control system that can be used in conjunction with a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
• FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example method of operating a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
• FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example method carried out by a computing device associated with the device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
• FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method carried out by a computing device associated with the device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.
DESCRIPTION OF THE EXAMPLES
• Reference will now be made in detail to the present examples, including examples illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.
• Systems and methods herein provide for safe and efficient strengthening of core muscles of a user. An example device can include various components for securing a user in a safe position, tilting the body of the user, and rotating the user in a manner that engages the desired muscle groups. The device can include electronically controlled actuators and/or electric motors for performing various motions associated with the user. A control unit can gather information regarding the user and the device to provide helpful information to the user or a caretaker. For example, the control unit can track progress over time, suggest the types and intensities of exercises for individual users, and prepare reports suitable for use in medical or insurance contexts.
• FIG. 1 provides an illustration of example components of adevice100 for strengthening the core muscles of a user. The system ofFIG. 1 includes auser110 positioned securely within thedevice100 such that the core muscles of theuser110 can be effectively trained and strengthened. Thedevice100 includes two support frames102 that support and suspend the rest of thedevice100. The support frames102 can be configured to rest on a flat surface, such as a floor or a cushioned mat. Although two support frames102 are shown inFIG. 1, in some examples, only onesupport frame102 can be used to support the rest of thedevice100. In other examples, more than two support frames102 can be used.
• One or more of the support frames102 can be coupled to a first rotating frame104 (also referred to herein as a “first frame”). The support frames102 can be made from any material with sufficient strength to support the remainder of thedevice100, including auser110, while providing a sufficient margin of safety. Example materials include steel, aluminum, alloys, carbon fiber, and so on. The support frames102 andfirst frame104 can be coupled via arotating coupling106. Any type ofrotating coupling106 can be used, provided thecoupling106 can handle a radial load associated with the weight of the suspended portions of thedevice100 as well as theuser110, who is also suspended by the support frames102. Thecouplings106 can each include a bearing coupled to a shaft. As non-exhaustive examples, the bearing can be a ball bearing, roller bearing, bushing, journal bearing, sleeve bearing, rifle bearing, composite bearing, jewel bearing, fluid bearing, magnetic bearing, flexure bearing, or a combination thereof. In some cases, multiple bearings can be used. For example, acoupling106 can include one bearing press-fit into thefirst frame104 and a second bearing press-fit into thesupport frame102, with a shaft connecting the two. Any other rotational coupling can be used for coupling106 based on the design parameters of thedevice100.
• In some examples, a shaft used as part of acoupling106 can extend through thesupport frame102 and be attached to a powered rotation mechanism, such as a motor. In those examples,first frame104 can provide rotational movement via the motor rotating the shaft of thecoupling106. In other examples, actuators can be mounted to control the movement offirst frame104 relative to the support frames102.FIGS. 2A-2C provide examples and associated discussion of adevice100 including actuators for imparting rotational movement to thefirst frame104. Thefirst frame104 can be made from any material with sufficient strength to support the remainder of thedevice100, including auser110, while providing a sufficient margin of safety. Example materials include steel, aluminum, alloys, carbon fiber, and so on.
• Continuing with the example ofFIG. 1, a second rotating frame108 (also referred to herein as a “second frame”) is provided. Thesecond frame108 can be coupled to thefirst frame104 via one or morerotational couplings112,114. Similar to thecouplings106 between the support frames102 andfirst frame104, thecouplings112,114 between thefirst frame104 andsecond frame108 can include any rotational couplings, such as bearings. The bearings can include a ball bearing, roller bearing, bushing, journal bearing, sleeve bearing, rifle bearing, composite bearing, jewel bearing, fluid bearing, magnetic bearing, flexure bearing, or a combination thereof. In some cases, multiple bearings can be used. For example, acoupling112,114 can include one bearing press-fit into thefirst frame104 and a second bearing press-fit into thesecond frame108, with a shaft connecting the two. Thesecond frame108 can be made from any material with sufficient strength to support the remainder of thedevice100, including auser110 and theseat assembly130, while providing a sufficient margin of safety. Example materials include steel, aluminum, alloys, carbon fiber, and so on.
• In some examples, thecouplings112,114 between thefirst frame104 andsecond frame108 include afirst coupling112 and asecond coupling114. In the example ofFIG. 1, thefirst coupling112 is positioned near the top of thesecond frame108, while thesecond coupling114 is positioned near the bottom of thesecond frame108. Because thesecouplings112,114 experience different forces and can provide different functions, their design may differ in some ways. For example, thesecond coupling114 may include a larger or more robust rotational mechanisms, such as bearings, in order to support the majority of the weight of thesecond frame108 and auser110. Meanwhile, thefirst coupling112 can include an elongated shaft that extends through thefirst frame104 and is coupled to a device for generating rotational force, such as a motor. In the example ofFIG. 1, thefirst coupling112 is associated with anelectric motor116.
• Theelectric motor116 can utilize a supply of either DC or AC power to provide mechanical work. In the example ofFIG. 1, themotor116 provides work in the form of rotational energy applied to a shaft coupled to thesecond frame108. Themotor116 itself is shown mounted to thefirst frame104. As a result, operating themotor116 causes thesecond frame108 to rotate relative to thefirst frame104. This is true regardless of the spatial orientation of thefirst frame104 relative to thesupport frame102. Themotor116 can cause thesecond frame108 to rotate 360 degrees relative to thefirst frame104, about an axis intersecting the top andbottom couplings112,114. Themotor116 can operate in either direction—i.e., clockwise or counterclockwise—as desired. Themotor116 can be controlled by an operator or by a computer, as discussed later in this disclosure.
• While described as an electric motor, themotor116 can be any type of device that utilizes power to produce rotational movement. Themotor116 can include additional components, such as a set of gears that increases or decreases the mechanical leverage of themotor116 or that changes the direction of rotation, such as a differential. Themotor116 can also include a housing that covers and protects the components of themotor116. Themotor116 can further include a fail-safe that causes the motor to lock into position in the case of a malfunction, including a manual override that allows an operator to manually move thesecond frame108 as desired.
• Although not shown, theelectric motor116 can be mounted in alternate locations in some embodiments. For example, themotor116 can be mounted to thefirst frame104 proximate thesecond coupling114. In that example, themotor116 would cause thesecond frame108 to rotate by applying a rotational force to a shaft extending through thesecond coupling114. The shaft, fixed to thesecond frame108, would cause thesecond frame108 to rotate at the same speed as the shaft is rotating. The orientation with themotor116 proximate thesecond coupling114 provides an advantage in that it lowers the center ofgravity120 of thedevice100. However, the size of themotor116 will require careful consideration to ensure that sufficient ground clearance is provided for themotor116 as thefirst frame104 pivots aboutcouplings106.
• FIG. 1 also shows aseat assembly130 upon which auser110 can be securely seated. Theseat assembly130 can include aseat frame131 that is mounted to a portion of thesecond frame108, such that rotation of thesecond frame108 causes an associated rotation of theseat assembly130. Theseat frame131 can be made from a resilient material such as metal, thick plastic, carbon fiber, or any other suitable rigid material. Theseat frame131 of theseat assembly130 can be mounted to any portion of thesecond frame108, or to multiple portions of thesecond frame108. Other portions of theseat assembly130 can also be mounted to thesecond frame108.
• Theseat assembly130 can include abase portion134 mounted to theseat frame131 and shaped for auser110 to sit on. Thebase portion134 can be a padded section similar to what might be found in a typical chair. Theseat assembly130 can also include aback portion132 mounted to theseat frame131. Theback portion132 can be made from a similar material as thebase portion134, with the intended function being to provide comfortable support to the user's110 body. In some examples, theback portion132 of theseat assembly130 is positioned to contact theuser110 in the waist and lower back area, without providing any support to the user's110 upper or middle back areas. This is intentional, as alarge back portion132 would eliminate the requirement for auser110 to engage particular core muscles when operating thedevice100.
• Theseat assembly130 can also include aside support138 on one or both sides of theseat assembly130. The side supports138 can include anadjustable knee support136 that provides support to a user's100 legs near the knee area. Theadjustable knee support136 can be moved along the length of theside support138 in order to conform to the size of theuser100. The distance between opposing side supports138 can also be adjusted to accommodate various sizes ofusers110. This functionality is discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 3.
• Thedevice100 ofFIG. 1 also includes afootrest140 positioned for theuser110 to place his or her feet as thedevice100 is operated. Thefootrest140 can be mounted to thesecond frame108, such that its orientation with respect to thesecond frame108, and therefore to theseat assembly130, remains static as the first andsecond frames104,108 move within their ranges of movement. Thefootrest140 can include one or more restraining members that can be positioned to secure a user's100 feet to thefootrest140 while the device is being operated.
• FIG. 2A provides an illustration of a portion of the system components of thedevice100 ofFIG. 1.FIG. 2A omits thesecond frame108,seat assembly130, anduser110 in order to highlight the components associated with thefirst frame104 and support frames102. In practice, those omitted components would be included in thedevice100. The partial depictions inFIGS. 2A-2C are merely exemplary.
• FIG. 2A shows a pair of opposing support frames102, eachsupport frame102 coupled to the firstrotating frame104. In this example, the support frames102 are coupled to thefirst frame104 viarotating couplings106. Thecouplings106 can include, for example, a bearing inside each of the support frames102 and each side of thefirst frame104, with a shaft extending between the bearing pairs associated with eachcoupling106. With bearings on either side, thefirst frame104 can rotate freely with respect to thesupport frame102. While bearings are discussed as an example for thecouplings106, other types of rotatable couplings can be used as well, including pivot joints, pin joints, ball-and-socket joints, among others.
• To control the rotation of thefirst frame104 relative to thesupport frame102, one ormore actuators210 can be utilized. Eachactuator210 can include any component that moves or controls a mechanical system. For example, anactuator210 can be electric, mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, or some combination thereof. Anactuator210 can also be comprised of multiple actuators working in conjunction with one another.
• As shown inFIG. 2A, anactuator210 can be mounted to thesupport frame102 via alower mount212 and mounted to thefirst frame104 via anupper mount214. In one example, when theactuator210 is in an extended position, the firstrotating frame104 is in an upright position (as shown inFIG. 2B). When theactuator210 is in a retracted position, the firstrotating frame104 is in a horizontal position (as shown inFIG. 2B). In some examples, the extension and retraction of theactuator210 provides at least 90 degrees of rotational movement for thefirst frame104 relative to thesupport frame102.
• Although twoactuators210 are shown inFIG. 2A, thedevice100 can operate with only oneactuator210 if desired. However, using twoactuators210 allows for the use ofsmaller actuators210 that require less power while also placing equal loads on therespective couplings106. Theactuators210 can be controlled manually by an operator, or automatically by a control system that is in electronic communication with theactuators210. The operation of the control system is discussed in more detail with respect toFIG. 4.
• FIG. 2B provides a side view of the system components depicted inFIG. 2A. The drawing shows onesupport frame102 coupled to the firstrotating frame104, with anactuator210 controlling movement between the two components. Theactuator210 is mounted to thesupport frame102 via alower mount212 and mounted to thefirst frame104 via anupper mount214. Both mounts212,214 can include a rotatable coupling that allows the body of theactuator210 to rotate relative to themounts212,214. As theactuator210 extends and retracts, thefirst frame104 rotates relative to thesupport frame102.
• InFIG. 2B, theactuator210 is shown in an extended position. In some examples, this extended position is the maximum extension possible from theactuator210. In other examples, theactuator210 can extend further, but stops at a position that causes thefirst frame104 to be in a vertical, upright position. In practice, the vertical position may be the easiest position for loading and unloading auser110. Additionally, the vertical position can correspond to a relaxed seating position for theuser110, to be used for rest portions of their routine.
• In some examples, one or more sensors associated with thefirst frame104 can provide an indication of the inclination level of thefirst frame104 relative to thesupport frame102, the ground, or an initial position. For example, an inertial sensor can be placed on a top portion of thefirst frame104 with another inertial sensor placed at a bottom portion of thefirst frame104. In another example, the second inertial sensor can be placed on thefirst frame104 at a location axially aligned with acoupling106 between thefirst frame104 andsupport frame102. In yet another example, the second inertial sensor can be place on thesupport frame102. Regardless of their precise locations, these inertial sensors can provide information sufficient to determine the spatial orientation of thefirst frame104. This feedback can be used to control theactuators210 such that they extend a precise amount that causes thefirst frame104 to be oriented vertically.
• FIG. 2C provides another side view of the system components depicted inFIGS. 2A and 2B, but shown in a different orientation.FIG. 2C shows onesupport frame102 coupled to the firstrotating frame104, with anactuator210 controlling movement between the two components. Theactuator210 is mounted to thesupport frame102 via alower mount212 and mounted to thefirst frame104 via anupper mount214. Both mounts212,214 can include a rotatable coupling that allows the body of theactuator210 to rotate relative to themounts212,214. As theactuator210 extends and retracts, thefirst frame104 rotates relative to thesupport frame102. The difference between the positions of theactuator210 inFIGS. 2B and 2C illustrates the function of the rotatable couplings associated withmounts212 and214.
• InFIG. 2C, theactuator210 is shown in a retracted position. In some examples, this retracted position is the minimum extension (or maximum retraction) available from theactuator210. In other examples, theactuator210 can retract further, but stops at a position that causes thefirst frame104 to be in the horizontal position shown inFIG. 2C. When used to train a user's110 core muscles, theupper frame104 of thedevice100 is likely to be used within a 90-degree range of motion.FIGS. 2B and2C illustrate this range. In other examples, however, theupper frame104 can operate in a range greater than 90 degrees.
• The examples ofFIGS. 2A-2C includeactuators210 positioned such that extension of theactuators210 causes thefirst frame104 to return to a vertical position while retraction of theactuators210 causes thefirst frame104 to be oriented in a horizontal position. However, in some examples these mechanisms can be reversed. For example, if theupper mount210 is mounted to thefirst frame104 at a location that is lower than the rotational axis of the couplings106 (rather than higher, as shown in these drawings), then extension of theactuators210 could cause thefirst frame104 to be oriented in a horizontal position while retraction of theactuators210 could cause thefirst frame104 to be oriented in a vertical position.
• FIG. 3 provides an illustration of anexample seat assembly130 that can be used with thedevice100 of the present disclosure. Theseat assembly130 is intended to support and restrain auser110 as thedevice100 is operated. Theseat assembly130 can be mounted to the secondrotating frame108 such that theseat assembly130 maintains a static position relative to thesecond frame108 as the first andsecond frames104,108 rotate relative to their original positions. Theseat assembly130 can be mounted to the secondrotating frame108 via theseat frame131, either directly or by use of a mountingplate331 that interfaces with both thesecond frame108 andseat frame131. The mountingplate331 can include one or more strong material such as steel, aluminum, metal alloys, or carbon fiber, to ensure a solid connection between theseat assembly130 and thesecond frame108.
• Theseat assembly130 can include abase portion134 mounted to theseat frame131 and shaped for auser110 to sit on. Thebase portion134 can be a padded section similar to what might be found in a typical chair. Theseat assembly130 can also include aback portion132 mounted to theseat frame131 of mountingplate331. Theback portion132 can be made from a similar material as thebase portion134, with the intended function being to provide comfortable support to the user's110 body. In some examples, theback portion132 of theseat assembly130 is positioned to contact theuser110 in the waist- and lower-back area, without providing any support to the user's110 upper or middle back areas. This is intentional, as alarge back portion132 would eliminate the requirement for auser110 to engage particular core muscles when operating thedevice100.
• Theseat assembly130 can also include aside support138 on one or both sides of theseat assembly130. The side supports138 can include anadjustable knee support136 that provides support to a user's110 legs near the knee area. Theadjustable knee support136 can be moved along the length of theside support138 in order to conform to the size of theuser110. Theknee support136 can include aknee pad336 positioned to contact the user's110 knee while providing a cushion to maintain comfort and avoid potentially painful pressure on the knee. Other types of knee supports may be used in place of, or in addition to, theknee support136 shown inFIG. 3. In some examples, theknee support136 can be a curved restraint device that wraps around each of the user's110 knees. The knee supports136 can be mounted to different locations of theseat assembly130 oroverall device100 based on the shape and functionality of the knee supports136.
• The distance between opposing side supports138 can also be adjusted to accommodate various sizes ofusers110. For example, theseat assembly130 can includetracks314 underneath thebase portion134 of theseat assembly130. Thetracks314 can accommodate a variety of positions for the side supports138 of theseat assembly130. In practice, auser110 can be seated in theseat assembly130 and an operator can adjust the side supports138, by engaging the desired notch of therelevant tracks314, such that the side supports138 contact theuser110 on either side. In some examples, thetracks314 can move forward and back along theseat assembly130 with theside support138. Eachside support138 can be adjusted via anadjustment mechanism312, one of which is shown inFIG. 3. Theadjustment mechanism312 can be a hand-cranked device that translates rotational motion of the handle to linear motion of theside support138. In other examples, theadjustment mechanism312 can be modified or replaced with an electronic control mechanism. The electronic control mechanism can be an electric motor, for example, that receives wireless signals from a control unit or via a button or other actuator accessible on or near the seat assembly.
• Theseat assembly130 can also include afootrest140 positioned for theuser110 to place his or her feet as thedevice100 is operated. Thefootrest140 can be mounted to thesecond frame108, such that its orientation with respect to thesecond frame108, and therefore to theseat assembly130, remains static as the first andsecond frames104,108 move within their ranges of movement. Thefootrest140 can include one ormore restraining members342 that can be positioned to secure a user's100 feet to thefootrest140 while the device is being operated. In the example of FIG.3, the restrainingmembers342 are rotatable, such that auser110 can place his or her feet on thefootrest140 and an operator can rotate each restrainingmember342 into a second, locked position. The second position can place the restrainingmembers342 on or near the top of the user's110 feet, near their ankles for example. The restrainingmembers342 can be locked into place via anadjustment mechanism344 as shown inFIG. 3.
• FIG. 4 is an exemplary system diagram for a control system that can be used in conjunction with adevice100 for strengthening the core muscles of auser110. In the system shown inFIG. 4, a computing device can be used to coordinate system functions. The computing device can be any type of computing device, including a laptop, desktop, PC, tablet, or phone, for example. The computing device can include memory and a processor capable of executing non-transitory, computer-readable medium. The computing device can also include acontrol unit440 that receives and processes information and can issue commands to other components associated with the computing device or theexercise device100. Thecontrol unit440 can be one or more processors of the computing device.
• In some examples, thecontrol unit440 receives inputs from a variety of sources. For example, sensors associated with theexercise device100 can send information to thecontrol unit440 indicating positional information of different components of thedevice100. Afirst position sensor410 can be located on thedevice100 in a location associated with the firstrotating frame104, for example. Thefirst position sensor410 can be a single sensor or multiple sensors. It can encompass any type of sensor, such as an inertial sensor, inclinometer, accelerometer, gravity sensor, magnetic sensor, or any other relevant sensor. In one example, thefirst position sensor410 is an inclinometer mounted to a top or bottom portion of the firstrotating frame104. As the firstrotating frame104 rotates about an axis extending through thecouplings106 shown inFIG. 1, the inclinometer can measure a real-time angle of inclination and provide that data to thecontrol unit440 in real time. To transmit this information, a wireless communication protocol can be used. Examples include WIFI, BLUETOOTH, or near-field communication protocols.
• Asecond position sensor415 can be located on thedevice100 in a location associated with the secondrotating frame108. Thesecond position sensor415 can be a single sensor or multiple sensors. It can encompass any type of sensor, such as an inertial sensor, inclinometer, accelerometer, gravity sensor, magnetic sensor, or any other relevant sensor. In one example, thesecond position sensor415 is an inclinometer mounted to a top or bottom portion of the secondrotating frame108. As the secondrotating frame104 rotates about an axis extending through thecouplings112,114 shown inFIG. 1, the inclinometer can measure a real-time angle of inclination and provide that data to thecontrol unit440 in real time. In another example, thesecond position sensor415 is a pair of sensors mounted to the first and secondrotating frames104 and108, respectively. In that example, the pair ofsensors415 can determine a relative location relative to one another. In yet another example, thefirst position sensor410 andsecond position sensor415 are the same sensor, or pair of sensors, and are mounted to a portion of the secondrotating frame108.
• Thecontrol unit440 can also receive a user identification (ID)420. Theuser ID420 can be obtained from a variety of sources. In one example, an administrator manually inputs auser ID420 into a user interface of the computing device. In another example, auser110 logs into the computing device and provides theiruser ID420 in that manner. In yet another example, auser110 scans an identification object, such as a barcode on an armband, keychain, or smartphone application, using a scanner in communication with the computing device.
• Thecontrol unit440 can also receive information fromuser sensors425 that are associated with theuser110. For example, theuser110 can wear a heartrate-monitoring device that syncs to the computing device and provides a wireless signal to thecontrol unit440 regarding the user's110 heartrate during use of thedevice100. The wireless signal can be any type of wireless communication, such as BLUETOOTH, WIFI, or radio-frequency communication.Other user sensors425 can be used as well, such as blood pressure monitors, blood oxygen monitors, respiration rate monitors, and so on. Finally, thecontrol unit440 can receivemanual inputs430 from auser110 or administrator. For example, an administrator can provide amanual input430 regarding the parameters used for thedevice100 during a session or in past sessions.
• Thecontrol unit440 can gather information provided by thefirst position sensor410,second position sensor415,user ID420,user sensors425,manual input430, and any other sensors or sources of information, and perform various calculations and functions. For example, thecontrol unit440 can store any information received from the various information sources in adata repository450. Thedata repository450 can be a storage device associated with the computing device, a server or group of servers, or one or more additional computing devices, for example. Thecontrol unit440 can store data in thedata repository450 in a manner that associates the data with a particular user profile. The user profile can be matched to auser ID420 in one example. In another example, the user profile is associated with a medical record of auser110. The user profile can also be a randomized number or alphanumeric representation in order to provide confidentiality.
• Thecontrol unit440 can perform calculations to determine the location and movements associated with auser110 on thedevice100. For example, thecontrol unit440 can calculate, in real time, the angle of the firstrotating frame104 relative to thesupport frame102, and angle of the secondrotating frame108 relative to either the firstrotating frame104 orsupport frame102, or both. For example, at any point in time, thecontrol unit440 can determine an angle of inclination of the first frame and a rotation rate and location of the user about the axis defined by thefirst frame104. These calculated values can be stored in thedata repository450. The calculated values can also be displayed on adisplay460 associated with the computing device. Thedisplay460 can be a screen of the computing device, a monitor or television located in proximity to the computing device, or a remote display at a different location.
• In addition to saving or displaying data and calculations, the control unit can generate reports and recommendations. Areport generator470 can be used to generate reports that show a user's110 history, including the dates and times of using thedevice100, as well as the particular specifications of the usage. For example, the report can indicate the angle of inclination, number of rotations, speed of rotation, and other similar statistics for each use of thedevice100. These statistics can be packaged into a report that showsuser110 improvement over time. Such reports can be required for insurance purposes in some examples. A system administrator can request to organize or format the report as needed, and thereport generator470 can generate the desired report.
• Thecontrol unit440 can also utilize arecommendation engine480 to recommend specifications for future sessions of auser110 based on their user history. For example, thecontrol unit440 can obtain historical records for auser110 based on their user profile. Thecontrol unit440 can parse this data to determine trends, including whether theuser110 is gaining or losing strength, gaining or losing weight, and the speed at which any improvements or setbacks are occurring. Of course, other data can be used by therecommendation engine480 as well—such as heartrate data, blood pressure data, blood oxygen data, and so on. Thecontrol unit440 can display recommended control parameters for a user's110 use of the device. In some examples, thecontrol unit440 can automatically implement the recommended parameters and run thedevice100 using those parameters.
• Although not shown, thecontrol unit440 can also control all functionality of theexercise device100 itself. For example, thecontrol unit440 can control theactuators210 andelectric motor116 that cause the first and secondrotating frames104,108 to move. Thecontrol unit440 can issue commands to any electronically controllable mechanism used by theexercise device100. In some examples, an operator can entermanual inputs430 to thecontrol unit440 requesting thecontrol unit440 to operate thedevice100 in a particular manner or according to particular specifications.
• WhileFIG. 4 shows theuser history repository450 communicably connected to thecontrol unit440, theuser history repository450 can provide additional functionality as well. For example, the data in the user history repository450 (referred to as “user data”) can be uploaded to a cloud-based system, such as a server that hosts one or more webpages. The server can sync with theuser history repository450 periodically or when requested by an administrator, downloading new data stored in theuser history repository450 since the previous sync. In some examples, user data can be automatically uploaded to the cloud as soon as it is saved in theuser history repository450.
• The user data uploaded to the cloud can be made available in a variety of manners. In one example, a secured medical web portal can provide access to medical professionals with appropriate credentials. The medical web portal can be built to abide by current, ever-evolving laws surround medical data security. The medical web portal can require proof from a party requesting information that the party is authorized to handle the user data. The user data provided through the secured medical web portal can be formatted, altered, redacted, or changed such that all applicable laws and regulations are followed.
• The server can also host a separate, secured patient web portal. The patient web portal can provide a medical patient with access to their own user data. The data security and transmission requirements for the patient web portal can be different from the medical web portal, as dictated by applicable laws and regulations. A user could provide credentials, including biometric information in some examples, to access the patient web portal and view the user data collected from their use of the core-strengtheningdevice100.
• The server can host additional web portals, such as an insurance web portal in one example. In some cases, information provided to an insurance company can implicate different data security or privacy standards relative to information provided to medical providers or to the patient. In those cases, a separate insurance web portal can be provided to control the format and content of user data provided to insurance companies. For example, the user data accessible to the insurance web portal can be scrubbed of information that an insurance company is not allowed to access. Other types of servers or web portals can be provided based on the user data stored in theuser history repository450.
• FIG. 5 is a flowchart of an example method of operating a device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.Stage510 can include providing a core strengthening device comprising a support frame, a first rotating frame rotatably coupled to the support frame, a second rotating frame rotatably coupled to the first rotating frame, and a seat coupled to the second rotating frame.
• Stage520 can include adjusting at least one side portion of the seat such that it contacts the body of the user. This can include, for example, sliding the side portion along one or more slotted tracks built into the seat.
• Stage530 can include adjusting at least one restraining device such that it contacts the body of the user. The restraining device can be a seatbelt-like device that contacts the user across the front of their midsection. The restraining device can also be a knee pad, or pair of knee pads, that can be adjusted to contact the user's knees. The restraining device can further be a foot restraint device that contacts the user's feet, legs, or ankle to restrain the user's feet to the footrest.
• Stage540 can include rotating the first frame relative to the support frame. This can include operating a mechanical device such as a pair of actuators, with each actuator connected to the first frame at one end and to a support frame at the other end. Extension and retraction of the actuators can cause rotation of the first frame.
• Stage550 can include rotating the second rotating frame relative to the first rotating frame, such that the user rotates relative to the first frame. Because the user is secured to the seat assembly, and the seat assembly is securely mounted to the second frame, the user will go where the second frame goes. As a result of rotation of the first and second rotating frames, the user will be tilted and then rotated around that tilted axis.
• FIG. 6 is a flowchart of an example method carried out by a computing device associated with the device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.Stage610 can include receiving information from a first sensor associated with a first rotating frame rotatably mounted to a support frame. In one example, the first position sensor is an inclinometer mounted to a top or bottom portion of the first rotating frame. As the first rotating frame rotates about an axis extending through the couplings shown inFIG. 1, the inclinometer can measure a real-time angle of inclination and provide that data to the control unit in real time. To transmit this information, a wireless communication protocol can be used.
• Stage620 can include calculating a rotation angle of the first rotating frame relative to the support frame based on the received information from the first sensor. This can include interpreting an angle of inclination transmitted by the sensor, in one example. In another example this stage can include applying one or more mathematical formulae to the data received from the first sensor to calculate a rotation angle or angle of inclination.
• Stage630 can include receiving information from a second sensor associated with a second rotating frame rotatably mounted to the first frame. In one example, the second position sensor is an inclinometer mounted to a top or bottom portion of the second rotating frame. As the second rotating frame rotates about an axis extending through the couplings shown inFIG. 1, the inclinometer can measure a real-time angle of inclination and provide that data to the control unit in real time. In another example, the second position sensor is a pair of sensors mounted to the first and second rotating frames, respectively. In that example, the pair of sensors can determine a relative location relative to one another. In yet another example, the first position sensor and second position sensor are the same sensor, or pair of sensors, and are mounted to a portion of the second rotating frame.
• Stage640 can include calculating a rotation angle of the second rotating frame relative to the first frame. This can include interpreting an angle of inclination transmitted by the sensor, in one example. In another example this stage can include applying one or more mathematical formulae to the data received from the second sensor to calculate a rotation angle or angle of inclination. Data gathered from multiple sensors can be used to calculate the rotation angle of the second frame.
• Stage650 can include displaying values associated with the calculated rotation angles of the first and second rotating frames. For example, the control unit can transmit the values to a display device associated with the computing device. The display can be a screen of the computing device, a monitor or television located in proximity to the computing device, or a remote display at a different location.
• FIG. 7 is a flowchart of an example method carried out by a computing device associated with the device for strengthening the core muscles of a user.Stage710 can include receiving a user identification. The user ID can be obtained from a variety of sources. In one example, an administrator manually inputs a user ID into a user interface of the computing device. In another example, a user logs into the computing device and provides their user ID in that manner. In yet another example, a user scans an identification object, such as a barcode on an armband, keychain, or smartphone application, using a scanner in communication with the computing device.
• Stage720 can include, based on the receive user identification, associating the user identification with a user profile. The user profile can be matched to a user ID in one example. In another example, the user profile is associated with a medical record of a user. The user profile can also be a randomized number or alphanumeric representation in order to provide confidentiality.
• Stage730 can include retrieving user history from a repository based on the user profile. The control unit can identify data stored in the data repository based on the user profile associated with that data. With a user ID to identify a user profile, the control unit can retrieve any historical information associated with a user profile matching the user ID.
• Stage740 can include recommending exercise parameters based on the retrieved user history. The control unit can utilize a recommendation engine to recommend specifications for future sessions of a user based on their user history. For example, the control unit can obtain historical records for a user based on their user profile. The control unit can parse this data to determine trends, including whether the user is gaining or losing strength, gaining or losing weight, and the speed at which any improvements or setbacks are occurring. Of course, other data can be used by the recommendation engine as well—such as heartrate data, blood pressure data, blood oxygen data, and so on. The control unit can display recommended control parameters for a user's use of the device. In some examples, the control unit can automatically implement the recommended parameters and run the device using those parameters.
• Stage750 can include preparing a report that includes historical information regarding at least two exercise events associated with the same user profile. A report generator can be used to generate reports that show a user's history, including the dates and times of using the device, as well as the particular specifications of the usage. For example, the report can indicate the angle of inclination, number of rotations, speed of rotation, and other similar statistics for each use of the device. These statistics can be packaged into a report that shows user improvement over time. Such reports can be required for insurance purposes in some examples. A system administrator can request to organize or format the report as needed, and the report generator can generate the desired report.
• Other examples of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the examples disclosed herein. Though some of the described methods have been presented as a series of steps, it should be appreciated that one or more steps can occur simultaneously, in an overlapping fashion, or in a different order. The order of steps presented is only illustrative of the possibilities and those steps can be executed or performed in any suitable fashion. Moreover, the various features of the examples described here are not mutually exclusive. Rather any feature of any example described here can be incorporated into any other suitable example. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the disclosure being indicated by the following claims.

Claims (20)

What is claimed is:

1. A non-transitory, computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by the processor of a computing device, perform stages for optimizing an exercise device, the stages comprising:

receiving information from a first sensor associated with a first rotating frame rotatably mounted to a support frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the first rotating frame relative to the support frame based on the received information from the first sensor;

receiving information from a second sensor associated with a second rotating frame rotatably mounted to the first frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the second rotating frame relative to the first frame; and

displaying values associated with the calculated rotation angles of the first and second rotating frames.

2. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, the stages further comprising associating the calculated values with a user profile.

3. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 2, the stages further comprising storing the calculated values and information associating the calculated values with a user profile in a data repository.

4. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 1, the stages further comprising:

receiving a user identification;

based on the received user identification, associating the user identification with a user profile; and

retrieving user history from a repository based on the user profile.

5. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 4, wherein receiving the user identification comprises at least one of receiving information from a barcode scanner indicating the user identification, receiving information from a near-field communication device indicating the user identification, and receiving information manually entered into a user interface indicating the user identification.

6. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 4, the stages further comprising recommending exercise parameters based on the retrieved user history.

7. The non-transitory, computer-readable medium ofclaim 4, the stages further comprising preparing a report that includes historical information regarding at least two exercise events associated with the same user profile.

8. A computing device comprising:

a processor;

a memory store;

a display; and

a non-transitory, computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by the processor of the computing device, perform stages for optimizing an exercise device, the stages comprising:

receiving information from a first sensor associated with a first rotating frame rotatably mounted to a support frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the first rotating frame relative to the support frame based on the received information from the first sensor;

receiving information from a second sensor associated with a second rotating frame rotatably mounted to the first frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the second rotating frame relative to the first frame; and

displaying values associated with the calculated rotation angles of the first and second rotating frames.

9. The computing device ofclaim 8, the stages further comprising associating the calculated values with a user profile.

10. The computing device ofclaim 9, the stages further comprising storing the calculated values and information associating the calculated values with a user profile in a data repository.

11. The computing device ofclaim 8, the stages further comprising:

receiving a user identification;

based on the received user identification, associating the user identification with a user profile; and

retrieving user history from a repository based on the user profile.

12. The computing device ofclaim 11, wherein receiving the user identification comprises at least one of receiving information from a barcode scanner indicating the user identification, receiving information from a near-field communication device indicating the user identification, and receiving information manually entered into a user interface indicating the user identification.

13. The computing device ofclaim 11, the stages further comprising recommending exercise parameters based on the retrieved user history.

14. The computing device ofclaim 11, the stages further comprising preparing a report that includes historical information regarding at least two exercise events associated with the same user profile.

15. An exercise system that tracks user progress over time, comprising:

at least one support frame;

a first rotating frame rotatably coupled to the at least one support frame;

a second rotating frame rotatably coupled to the first rotating frame;

a seat coupled to the second rotating frame;

a processor;

a memory store;

a display; and

a non-transitory, computer-readable medium containing instructions that, when executed by the processor of the computing device, perform stages for optimizing an exercise device, the stages comprising:

receiving information from a first sensor associated with the first rotating frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the first rotating frame relative to the support frame based on the received information from the first sensor;

receiving information from a second sensor associated with a second rotating frame;

calculating a rotation angle of the second rotating frame relative to the first frame; and

displaying values associated with the calculated rotation angles of the first and second rotating frames on the display.

16. The system ofclaim 15, the stages further comprising associating the calculated values with a user profile.

17. The system ofclaim 16, the stages further comprising storing the calculated values and information associating the calculated values with a user profile in a data repository.

18. The system ofclaim 15, the stages further comprising:

receiving a user identification;

based on the received user identification, associating the user identification with a user profile; and

retrieving user history from a repository based on the user profile.

19. The system ofclaim 18, the stages further comprising recommending exercise parameters based on the retrieved user history.

20. The system ofclaim 18, the stages further comprising preparing a report that includes historical information regarding at least two exercise events associated with the same user profile.

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