DE102007029689A1 - Portable training device - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a portable training device (1) for monitoring the execution of a sequence of movements, comprising a handle part (2, 3) for gripping the training device (1) in one hand, at least one sensor (11; 13, 14, 15) and a signal device (12) coupled to the sensor (11; 13, 14, 15) for signaling a discrepancy and/or agreement between the measuring data for the actual sequence of movements detected by the sensor (11; 13, 14, 15) and the desired sequence of movements, wherein the sensor (11; 13, 14, 15) is an angle and/or acceleration sensor for detecting the angular position or acceleration of the training device (1) in at least one first degree of freedom.

Description

The The present invention relates to a portable exerciser for monitoring the execution of a movement sequence, which a grip part for gripping the training device in a hand, at least one sensor and one coupled to the sensor Signaling device for signaling a deviation and / or agreement between the measured data acquired by the sensor and the actual Movement and the desired movement includes.

The Training device according to the invention is intended for a sports activity, the certain similarities with that of the so-called "Nordic Walking" has, use Find.

"Nordic Walking "refers to both in competitive athletes as well with inexperienced beginners in the past years increasingly popular sporting activity, in which the sportsman goes more or less briskly and while walking the training effect through targeted Stick use with two walking poles (so-called Nordic Walking poles) increases. The upper body movement caused by the arm swing and pole insertion and arming makes for a opposite easy walking significantly increased training effect and an additional stimulation of the circulation. In the farthest There are senses regarding the nature of Nordic Walking Movement a certain resemblance to cross-country skiing, whereby the cross-country skis are omitted. To achieve the desired Training success in Nordic walking is a special and well-coordinated one Movement with respect to the arm swing with the sticks to comply, so that the exercise is not in one mere "walking with two sticks" and one according to decreased training success degenerate. Especially beginners often struggle with this and need it Guidance or monitoring. Corresponding by trained instructors offered training courses are in great demand. Particular attention is paid especially the correct use of the Nordic walking poles placed in the context of the desired sequence of movements alternately be placed on the floor, whereupon you afterwards Press off from the ground by means of a certain repulsive movement can.

To monitor the execution of the pole use in Nordic Walking is in the DE 10 2005 036 740 A1 and the CA 2450687 A1 already proposed a generic training device in the form of a Nordic walking pole or walking stick, which is equipped with a pressure or force sensor for determining the force exerted during placement of the stick force. According to the CA 2450687 A1 Alternatively, this force can also be determined by means of a motion sensor which measures the relative displacement of two mutually axially movable elements of the walking stick, namely the handle and the pole tube, when the stick is placed on the ground. However, the two documents mentioned above have in common that, as a result of the selected sensor design, only one force occurring when the stick is set up can be determined. The athlete is appropriately signaled a match or deviation between the measurement data and the force to be achieved for a desired training success on the floor.

The above-described hiking poles and the so in However, related training concept have certain disadvantages on.

First It should be noted that the said hiking poles are not particularly reliable in terms of reproducibility and significance of the measured values obtained. So leads For example, already a soft ground to another result as on a hard surface, such as. B. a tarred road. The reproducibility in the monitoring of the training success is thus dependent on the respective soil condition, which is unfavorable. Furthermore, only monitors the force exerted on the stick during stick use which is not yet sufficient basis for a reliable monitoring of the total achieved Training success is.

moreover are the known from the prior art hiking poles, even if the pole is telescopic, still bulky in a sense, unwieldy and not easy to stow. A smaller and more compact training device is desirable.

Furthermore results in the Nordic Walking for others sometimes felt as funny or even amusing impression that the athlete when walking on a flat surface of a support by walking sticks needed, which for some a psychological inhibition threshold in connection with the training concept representing Nordic Walking. Provided that potentially interested in Nordic walking people This does not already completely from this sport is also a certain inhibition in carrying out the arm swing with the sticks to observe. Such deviations from the desired movement are with the training devices known from the prior art not visible. Overall, in addition to improved detection deviations also the degradation of the inhibition threshold explained above desirable.

And, after all, it keeps worrying about how derholende putting the stick and thereby taking repulsion movement for a certain vibration of the joints of the athlete, which proves to be disadvantageous in intensive and long-lasting training. This applies even if the Nordic Walking poles used are equipped with elastic pole tips on the bottom for reasons of joint protection.

In front In this background, it is the object of the present invention to provide a novel and compact training device with the one hand, the training effect in a Nordic Walking similar be better monitored can and on the other hand, the aforementioned disadvantages of the previous training concept Nordic walking are largely avoided.

These Task is solved with a training device according to claim 1. In that in the portable according to the invention Training device, the at least one sensor for monitoring the training success in the form of an angle and / or acceleration sensor for detecting the angular position or acceleration of the training device In at least one degree of freedom, the actual Movement differently than in the prior art was known throughout the duration of the performed Movement be monitored. A ground contact of the training device it does not need this.

moreover This can be a training device for monitoring the movement in a Nordic walking similar sporting activity can be realized, which is easy in To hold the hand and not designed in the form of a walking stick is. A aufzusetzendes on the floor stick tube is to achieve a compact design not provided. The by constantly repeated Settling the sticks on the ground occurring vibrations The joints can thus be completely avoided become. In addition, eliminates the carry by Walking sticks resulting psychological threshold. The hand held exerciser is for Third hardly recognizable. Likewise, the others can caused by the cyclic putting on of a stick Noises are avoided. That's easy in the hand too holding exercise equipment can be used to monitor the Arm swing are used, with a match with the desired movement and / or a deviation thereof can be signaled in a suitable manner.

In a first preferred embodiment of the invention is provided that both the at least one sensor and the appropriately coupled in this way signaling device in the handle are integrated, creating a particularly compact design is achievable.

The Handle part preferably consists of an elongated handle body and a fingerboard, which makes ergonomic sense and on the other hand a secure gripping the exercise machine allowed. In particular, however, this proves to be advantageous if the finger strap relative to the handle body against a Spring force is pivotable, so that the training effect by means of one advantageously during each arm swing to be performed closing movement of the hand against the spring force to improve the tendons and muscles of the gripping hand increased can be. The by cyclic closing and opening the ever a training device according to the invention holding hands caused pumping movement of the respective Hand counteracts static everyday stress and brings one higher muscle activity and circulation load during the workout.

Also the above-explained movement sequence of the hand is Preferably to coordinate with the arm swing, so that the invention Training device advantageously another sensor includes for detecting the pivoting of the fingerboard, also for monitoring the desired Movement is coupled to the signal unit. Here too can then be a deviation and / or agreement with the desired movement pattern in a suitable manner, for. B. be signaled by means of subtle beeps. The aim In particular, a movement sequence in which during the arm swing forwards the grip against the spring force while loosening his arm swing backwards becomes. This requires a linkage of the various sensor measurement data as part of the monitoring of the movement process.

to concrete embodiment of at least one inventively provided Acceleration or angle sensor should first be noted that, in principle, any embodiment should be considered as being in accordance with the invention is that - without this a ground contact too require - a statement about the actual Movement of the training device and thus over the Movement of the training device holding the hand allows.

However, it is particularly preferably an acceleration sensor measuring the acceleration along a predetermined reference direction, wherein the reference direction is the longitudinal axis or a transverse axis of the handle body which is perpendicular thereto. By continuously or at predetermined intervals measuring the - relative to the handle body - longitudinal or lateral acceleration can be done in the context of monitoring the sequence of motion a good comparison with such reference data when performing a proper, ie desired Bewegungsab are to be expected.

The cyclic forward and backward swinging of the exerciser holding arms - both in longitudinal and also in the transverse direction of the handle body - a for this movement pattern typical course in the respective degree of freedom occurring acceleration values.

In Advantageously, however, are exactly two or three acceleration sensors provided, the first of which is the acceleration in the longitudinal axis and the at least one other is the acceleration in one perpendicular transverse axis detected. By analysis of the respective sensor measured values or a suitable linkage (eg a vector addition) this results in an overall more meaningful Picture of the actual movement, with z. As well as an unwanted dangling of the arm recognized and signaled to the user of the training device can be.

in the Case of using an angle sensor is preferably the angular position the longitudinal axis of the handle body relative to the direction measured by gravity, the one present in each place and the Angle measurement drawable preferential direction represents. By means of a Angle sensor is particularly easy to monitor, whether the performed arm swing within the considered Degree of freedom within a predetermined angular range takes place.

Also Here, in a preferred embodiment the invention for even better monitoring the training success be provided two angle sensors that the Angular position in two mutually perpendicular planes of the handle part, each relative to the direction of gravity. As well is a combination of at least one angle and at least an acceleration sensor and a suitable linkage of thereby obtained measured values conceivable and meaningful.

Especially preferred is in a training device according to the invention provided, especially if the coupling between sensor and signal unit is realized microelectronics that the for monitoring purposes desired movement in the form of reference data is present, which preferably consists of a continuously repeating Reference data cycle exist. This reference data cycle corresponds while preferably those acceleration and / or angle values, during the continuously repeating arm swing back and forth (or vice versa) on the exerciser are to be expected. These reference data can be specified and in an appropriate manner to the respective user of the training device be customizable, but the training device is preferred with a software implemented learning program or learning mode in which one preferably by a knowledgeable Person supervised execution of the desired Movement measured the actual sensor data and in a storage unit recorded and for determining the reference data or a reference data cycle are used.

It also proves to be advantageous if the reference data cycle starts and ends with a maximum of the respective acceleration or angle values. This allows a particularly simple detection of the periodic movement cycle from the associated measurement data of the sensors, which are then compared in a comparator with the reference data cycle. As part of the learning mode, the beginning of a reference data cycle can first be determined by the first occurring maximum of the sensor values obtained. This corresponds in the case of the acceleration along the handle body measuring acceleration sensor z. B. denjenigem time of a cyclic arm swing, in which the exerciser is held forward in the highest position, ie the highest point of the front arm swing with respect to the reference system of the athlete vanishing speed and maximum acceleration of the training device. After ßend the longitudinal acceleration decreases and changes its sign until the arm swing back then - again at the highest point of the arm swing - a second acceleration maximum occurs with opposite signs, which in reasonably synchronous forward and backward swing of the counter-swinging hands in about the middle of the Represents reference data cycle. From there, the motion cycle is continued until the training device is again - in a next maximum of the acceleration value with a changed sign - in the highest point of the front arm swing. This represents the end of the reference data cycle. From a plurality of such motion cycles, a reference data cycle can be calculated by automatic detection of the periodicity, by suitable averaging of the achieved values and the inclusion of suitable error tolerances, with which a comparison between currently executed motion sequence (resp the corresponding sensor measurement data) and desired motion sequence (or the corresponding reference data) can be performed. In that regard, it is expedient manner provided that the reference data just a tolerable tolerance range with respect to the determination of a match still tolerab len deviation from the predetermined movement pattern is assigned.

Not more tolerable deviations are then transmitted by the signal unit Output of an acoustic or optical signal, z. In a display, for example signaled. However, depending on preference, for example Also, an acknowledge signal is issued when the executed Movement corresponded to the desired pattern of movement. By a proper use of the invention Exercise equipment can thus also ensure a professional athlete that he also has a longer training period the optimal training range for him in terms of the does not leave the sequence of movements.

According to one Again preferred embodiment of the invention can be provided be that in the handle body of the handle part an additional weight is integrated, which, if necessary. Against a spring force from his Resting position is deflectable around in opposite directions. The Mass inertia of the additional weight causes together with the deflection force counteracting a spring force delayed Effect when accelerating and decelerating the training device, which increases the training effect.

Also can by using a permanent magnetic material for the sliding additional weight and a suitable Conductor arrangement a voltage or a current flow are induced, with which the electronic components of the training device operable or in the training device according to the invention integrated rechargeable battery is rechargeable.

Further can in the training device at a suitable location a light source be integrated, which is a better recognition of the athlete in the Darkness allows. An advantage in the one Training device integrated alarm device, z. B. in shape be activated by means of a control siren. Lots Athletes, especially in big cities, are running in the dawn, so that such an alarm device whether subjective and subjective safety increases. Furthermore can be deduced from the measured sensor data on the step number, with which a pedometer is feasible. Furthermore a data interface can be provided on the training device be up to the obtained measurement data after finishing training to transfer a computer for evaluation and documentation of the training. Further, a monitor mode is on and off Control knob and, if necessary, other controls with a different function (eg to start and end the learning mode) of advantage.

Four embodiments of a training device according to the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing. Each shows 1 to 4 a cross section through a separate embodiment of the invention.

This in 1 illustrated embodiment of a training device according to the invention 1 consists of an elongated handle body 2 and a fingerboard 3 on which the exercise machine 1 can be grasped in one hand. For this purpose, the handle body 3 embraced by hand, with index, middle and ring fingers, possibly also the little finger, on an inner surface 4 of the fingerboard 3 come to the plant. The finger strap 3 is by means of a spring 5 in his in 1 shown biased rest position and can by closing the hand against the spring force around the pivot axis 6 to the handle body 2 be pivoted out, with the fingerboard 3 due to the spring tension when opening the hand returns back to its rest position. This operation of the fingerboard can be detected by means of an actuating sensor, not shown. The above be described structure of a training device according to the invention 1 is in all embodiments according to the 1 - 4 executed in the same way, which is illustrated by matching reference numerals.

The embodiments of the 1 - 3 further comprise one of at least one battery 7 or a rechargeable battery 8th powered, arranged on a circuit board electronic circuit 9 on which with (programmable) microprocessors 10 , Acceleration and / or angle sensors 11 for measuring the acceleration or the angle in at least one degree of freedom and an acoustic signal device 12 is equipped. Since acceleration or angle sensors are sufficiently known as such from the prior art, a detailed discussion of their exact functioning is unnecessary. The person skilled in the art will select the sensors suitable for the present purpose.

In the embodiments of the 1 - 3 are the sensors 11 and the signaling device 12 by means of the electronic circuit 9 coupled such that sensor data measured by the sensors with predetermined or recorded in a learning mode and in the microprocessors 10 stored reference data can be compared in the sense according to the invention, whereupon when the monitoring mode - a - a deviation or agreement indicating - acoustic signal can be output from the signaling device.

Unlike the in 1 illustrated embodiment include in the 2 - 4 illustrated exercise equipment 1 a in Longitudinal direction of the handle 2 linearly movable, cylindrical additional weight 13 which is in the handle 2 is integrated and from its rest position shown in the respective figures against the force of two coil springs 14 . 15 can be deflected upwards or downwards. In the embodiments according to 3 and 4 it is further provided that the additional weight 13 consists of a permanent magnetic material. Preferably, a strong rare earth permanent magnet is chosen for this purpose, wherein the coil springs 14 . 15 , then preferably consist of a non-magnetizing stainless steel. Inside the handle body 2 surrounds an induction coil 16 made of copper wire, the additional magnetic weight, so that by means of induction, a current can be generated, via a charging electronics, not shown for charging the respective intended battery 8th can be used. The delay in the movement of the additional weight due to the induction process 13 is also beneficial in terms of the training effect.

While in the embodiments of the 1 - 3 arranged on the board acceleration and / or angle sensors 11 Use is in the embodiment of 4 a in the longitudinal axis of the handle body 2 acting acceleration sensor for detecting an acceleration value lying above a predetermined maximum value realized by electro-mechanical means. This is above and below the against the springs 14 and 15 movable additional weight 13 one each in contact with the additional weight activating switching contact 17 . 18 intended. These switching contacts thus serve to detect an acceleration of the training device 1 in the longitudinal direction of the handle body 2 , Wherein the absolute acceleration acceleration value, from which a detection is present, for both deflection directions of the respective spring force of the coil spring 14 . 15 , the mass of the additional weight 13 and the respective distance between rest position of the additional weight 13 and switching contact 17 . 18 results. This accelerometer is powered by one of the battery 8th powered acoustic signal unit 12 coupled to the output of a beep when reaching or exceeding the acceleration required to trigger the switch contact.

A desired movement sequence can then be defined by the fact that both during the arm swing forward and during the arm swing toward the rear, a specific, for both longitudinal directions of the handle body 2 separately adjustable acceleration value should be exceeded. To set these acceleration values are on the training device, two externally accessible thumbscrews 19 . 20 provided with which the distance between the respective switching contact 17 . 18 and at rest additional weight 13 variable and thus the detectable acceleration threshold for both longitudinal directions is adjustable separately.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• DE 102005036740 A1 [0004]
• - CA 2450687 A1 [0004, 0004]

Claims (12)

Portable exerciser ( 1 ) for monitoring the execution of a movement sequence, which a handle part ( 2 . 3 ) for gripping the training device ( 1 ) in one hand, at least one sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) and one with the sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) coupled signaling device ( 12 ) for signaling a deviation and / or coincidence between those of the sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) comprises measured data relating to the actual movement sequence and the desired movement sequence, characterized in that the sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) an angular and / or acceleration sensor for detecting the angular position or acceleration of the training device ( 1 ) in at least a first degree of freedom. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) and the signaling device ( 12 ) in the handle part ( 2 . 3 ) are integrated. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the handle part ( 2 . 3 ) from an elongate handle body ( 2 ) and a fingerboard ( 3 ) consists. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the fingernail ( 3 ) against one of a spring ( 5 ) exerted spring force relative to the handle body ( 2 ) is pivotable. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the sensor ( 11 ; 13 . 14 . 15 . 17 . 18 ) is an acceleration sensor measuring the acceleration along a reference direction, wherein the reference direction is the longitudinal axis or a transverse axis of the handle body which is perpendicular thereto ( 2 ). Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 5, characterized in that exactly two acceleration sensors are provided, one of which detects the acceleration in the longitudinal axis and the other the acceleration in the transverse axis. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 3, characterized in that the sensor ( 11 ) is an angle sensor which measures the angular position of the longitudinal axis of the handle body relative to the direction of gravitational attraction. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 7, characterized in that two angle sensors are provided which measure in two mutually perpendicular planes, the angular position of the handle portion relative to the direction of gravitational attraction. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 1, characterized in that the desired motion sequence is in the form of reference data consisting of a continuously repeating reference data cycle. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 9, characterized in that the reference data cycle begins and ends with a maximum value of the acceleration or the angular position. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 9, characterized in that the training device ( 1 ) is switchable into a learning mode for recording the motion pattern to be given, in which the measured and in a memory unit ( 10 ) sensor data are used to determine the reference data. Exercise Device ( 1 ) according to claim 9, characterized in that the reference data is associated with a predefinable tolerance range with respect to the deviation from the predeterminable movement pattern which is just tolerable for determining a match.