Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to an exercise apparatus, particularly an exercise apparatus for improving a user's reaction speed and/or football control.

Background

Wall-mounted exercise machines designed to test and improve a user's reaction speed and agility are known. These machines, such as the BATAK (RTM) range, comprise of a plurality of nodes arranged in a network, each node having a light source and a touch sensitive region. During an exercise program, the light sources of the nodes are lit up for a predetermined period of time in a particular order and a user is tasked with contacting the touch sensitive region of each node whilst the light source of the node is lit.

Embodiments of the present invention seek to provide an improved exercise apparatus.

Summary

According to a first aspect disclosed herein, there is provided an exercise apparatus comprising: a main body portion; a plurality of nodes arranged on the main body portion, each node comprising a user actuable sensor configured to detect user input, and one or more light sources configured to emit light; a data storage medium storing information of a plurality of selectable exercise programs, each exercise program comprising an illumination sequence of one or more of the nodes, the data storage medium storing associations between the exercise programs and one or more respective nodes; and a controller configured to: control the apparatus to operate according to a selected exercise program, in dependence on user input comprising actuation of a user actuable sensor of a node associated with the selected exercise program.

This allows for a user to quickly and easily select and begin a chosen exercise program, without having to use conventional controls or navigate through menus on a graphical user interface. The user's overall exercise experience is therefore improved, which encourages further use of the exercise apparatus.

In an example, the controller is configured to control the apparatus to operate according to a selected exercise program, in direct dependence on user input comprising actuation of a user actuable sensor of a node associated with the selected exercise program. This allows a user to select an exercise program directly by actuating a user actuable sensor of a node rather than by, for example, navigating a menu on a user interface. This also allows for an interval between a user finishing a first exercise program and starting a second exercise program to be minimised.

In some examples, a display may nevertheless be provided to provide information to a user, such as their score. A relatively simple display (a relatively simple accompanying hardware and software) may be provided for this purpose.

In an example, an exercise program comprises an illumination sequence of two or more of the nodes

In an example, at least one user actuable sensor is light-sensitive. In an example, each user actuable sensor is light-sensitive. In an example, at least one, or each, light sensitive user actuable sensor is a photosensor. In this way, a user may actuate a light sensitive user actuable sensor, such as a photosensor, by blocking a portion of light being detected by the sensor. In an example, at least one user actuable sensor is touch-sensitive. In an example, each user actuable sensor is touch-sensitive. In an example, at least one, or each, touch sensitive user actuable sensor is a pressure sensor. In this way, a user may actuate a touch sensitive user actuable sensor, such as a pressure sensor, by pressing on the sensor.

In an example, at least one light source comprises one or more LEDs. In an example, each light source comprises one or more LEDs. In an example, at least one, or each, light source is operable to emit light of at least two different colours. For example, a light source may comprise one or more RGB LEDs. In this way, different coloured lights may be used to instruct a user to perform different corresponding actions. For example, a light of a particular colour may instruct the user to actuate the sensor of the corresponding node with, or by using, a particular body part, such as by moving a token/ball onto the node using that body part. This allows the user to train multiple body parts, such as both feet/legs, effectively during the same exercise program

In an example, the controller is configured to turn off an illuminated light source of a first node in response to actuation of the corresponding user actuable sensor during an exercise program.

In an example, the controller is configured to turn off an illuminated light source of a first node after the light source has been illuminated for a predetermined period of time during an exercise program.

In an example, the controller is configured to illuminate the light source of a second node after turning off the light source of a first node during an exercise program.

In an example, the controller is configured to increment a score for each light source turned off in response to actuation of the corresponding user actuable sensor during an exercise program. In this way, the user is provided with a score for correctly activating the sensor of a node corresponding to the illuminated light source, which provides a measure of the user's skill. In an example, the controller is configured to perform an exercise program until a predetermined score has been reached during the exercise program.

In an example, the controller is configured to perform an exercise program for a predetermined period of time.

In an example, the controller is configured to: associate a difficulty rating with at least one of the plurality of nodes; and select adjust the difficulty rating of an exercise program in response to the controller detecting actuation of the user actuable sensor of the node to which the difficulty rating is associated. The difficulty of an exercise program can be adjusted, for example, by increasing or decreasing the predetermined time that the exercise program is performed for, increasing or decreasing the predetermined score required to end the exercise program, or increasing or decreasing the predetermined time that a light source of a node is illuminated for.

In an example, the controller is configured to: associate an exercise program duration with at least one of the plurality of nodes; and select adjust the duration of an exercise program in response to the controller detecting actuation of the user actuable sensor of the node to which the exercise program duration is associated

In an example, the main body portion comprises a mat. In an example, the plurality of nodes is mounted to the mat. In an example, the exercise apparatus comprises a item for use in actuating the user actuable sensor of a node. The token item be a ball, such as a football or any other type of ball. The ball may be spherical. In this way, a token is provided to assist a user in activating a sensor, which provides a more enjoyable exercise experience for the user. In addition, in examples when the token is a ball, the exercise apparatus can be used to improve a user's ball control skills.

According to a second aspect disclosed herein, there is provided a method of controlling an exercise apparatus, the method comprising: providing a plurality of selectable exercise programs, each exercise program comprising an illumination sequence of one or more of a plurality of nodes; associating each exercise program with one or more nodes; and activating a selected exercise program, in dependence on user input comprising actuation of a user actuable sensor of a node associated with the selected exercise program. The method of the second aspect may comprise any or all features of the apparatus of the first aspect. According to a third aspect disclosed herein, there is provided a computer program comprising computer executable instructions which when run on one or more processors performs the method of the second aspect. Brief Description of the Drawings

To assist understanding of the present disclosure and to show how embodiments may be put into effect, reference is made by way of example to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows schematically a plan view of an example of an exercise apparatus;

Figure 2 shows schematically a plan view of an example of a node of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 shows a lookup table stored in a controller of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 shows schematically a plan view of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 1 , with a ball positioned over a node;

Figure 5 shows schematically a plan view of the exercise apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 4, with a ball positioned over a node; Figure 6 shows schematically a plan view of the exercise apparatus shown in

Figures 1, 4 and 5, with a ball positioned over a node and an LED of another node illuminated; and

Figure 7 shows schematically a plan view of the exercise apparatus shown in Figures 1 and 4-6, with a ball positioned over a third node and an LED of another node illuminated; Figure 8 shows schematically a plan view of an alternative example of an exercise apparatus comprising a plurality of nodes arranged on a flexible mat;

Figure 9 shows a lookup table stored in a controller of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 8.

Figure 10 shows schematically a plan view of an alternative example of an exercise apparatus comprising a plurality of nodes arranged on a flexible mat; and Figure 11 shows a lookup table stored in a controller of the exercise apparatus shown in Figure 10.

Detailed Description

Figures 1 and 4-7 show an exercise or skills apparatus 1 that may be used to improve a user's reactions and/or coordination skills, particularly ball control technique of a football.

The exercise apparatus 1 comprises a plurality of nodes 2-6 arranged on a substrate or mat 7. The mat may be flexible, such that it can be rolled up for storage and/or transport. The nodes may be considered to be arranged in a network or array. Each node 2-6 is seated in a respective seat formed in an upper surface of the mat 7. Each node is attached or adhered to its respective seat of the mat 7 by a suitable fixing means, such as glue, a screw arrangement etc. In this example, the plurality of nodes 2-6 comprises a first node 2 positioned in the centre of the mat 7, and a second node 3, a third node 4, a fourth node 5 and a fifth node 6 are placed towards the outside of the mat 7. The second node 3, third node 4, fourth node 5 and fifth node 6 are spaced substantially equidistantly from the first node 2 and are provided in a "cross" configuration surrounding the central first node 2.

In other examples, the apparatus 1 may comprise any number of nodes arranged in any configuration. For example, Figure 8 shows an example of an exercise apparatus 1 comprising a total of thirteen nodes arranged in a configuration of two concentric circles surrounding a central node.

The flexible mat 7 may be formed from any suitably flexible material, such as rubber. In this example the mat 7 is hexagon-shaped, but in other examples the mat 7 may be any other shape, such as square-shaped, pentagon-shaped etc. The mat 7 has a flat and smooth upper surface.

A ball 8 is shown. The ball 8 can be manipulated by a user and moved around over the upper surface of the mat 7. The user may move the ball 8 over and round the mat 7 by using, for example, one or both of their feet. The ball 8 may be provided with the apparatus 1 as part of a kit. Alternatively, the ball 8 may be provided separately to the apparatus 1. In other examples, any item, not necessarily a ball, may be provided with the apparatus 1 as part of a kit or separately.

The exercise apparatus 1 has a control unit 9. The control unit 9 is connected to each of the plurality of nodes 2-6, either directly or indirectly (e.g. via another node). The control unit 9 is provided for controlling the operation of the exercise apparatus 1 and in particular the nodes 2-6. The control unit 9 comprises a controller 10, such as a microcontroller, and a data storage medium 15. The controller 10 and the data storage medium are provided within a housing 1 1. A display 12 is mounted to the housing 1 1 for displaying information and data associated with the exercise apparatus 1.

In this example, the nodes 2-6 are each connected to one another by appropriate cabling. In other examples, the nodes 2-6 are not directly connected to one another but are connected indirectly through their connection to the control unit 9.

Referring to Figure 2, a close-up of the first node 2 is shown. The first node 2 comprises a light source 13 and a user actuable sensor 14. In this example, the light source 13 is substantially centrally positioned and the user actuable sensor 14 is positioned adjacent the light source 13. In this example, the light source 13 is a light emitting diode (LED) capable of emitting a plurality of colours and the user actuable sensor 14 is a photosensor, which is responsive to light. In other examples the light source 13 may be any other light source, such as a plurality of LEDs or a compact fluorescent bulb etc., and the user actuable sensor 14 may be any other user actuable sensor, such as a touch sensor and/or a pressure sensor etc. In this example the other nodes 3-6 also comprise an LED and a photosensor and may be identical in construction to the first node 2.

The exercise apparatus 1 is powered by a mains connection (not shown). In other examples, the exercise apparatus 1 may additionally or alternatively be powered by a battery contained within the housing 1 1 of the control unit 9. The battery may be rechargeable.

The controller 10 is configured to perform/execute/operate, in response to a user input, one of a plurality of exercise programs or sequences stored in the data storage medium. Each exercise program involves either the illumination of the light source 13 of one or more of the nodes 2-6 in a particular pre-determined or random order/sequence and/or according to a particular pattern, or . Therefore, the nodes act as targets, and a user is tasked with selecting or actuating an illuminated node by activating its respective sensor 14. Once the user has activated the sensor 14 of the corresponding node 2-6, for example by rolling the ball 8 over the sensor 14 using their foot/feet or by striking the sensor 14 with their hand, the controller 10 turns off the light source 13 of that node 2- 6 and illuminates the light source 13 of the next node 2-6 in the exercise program to set a new target and prompt the user to activate the sensor 14 of that node 2-6.

The controller 10 is also configured to turn off the light source 13 of a node 2-6 after a predetermined period of time if the user has not activated the sensor 14 of the node 2-6.

The controller 10 is configured to continue the exercise program for a predetermined period of time or until the user has reached a predetermined score, or until the programmed sequence is ended. The score may correspond to a number of illuminated light sources the user has turned off, and/or how quickly the user has completed an exercise program Thus, once the predetermined period of time or score has been reached, or the exercise program sequence has ended, the controller 10 considers the exercise program as complete.

The display 12 is used to show information such as the time that has elapsed since the start of an exercise program and the user's score. Exercise programs are explained in further detail below.

Each of the second node 3, third node 4, fourth node 5 and fifth node 6 are associated with a particular exercise program, which as mentioned above, involves the illumination of a light source 13 of one or more of the nodes 2-6 in a particular order and/or according to a particular pattern.

To this end, in this example, the controller 10 is pre-programmed during its manufacture to store a lookup table 16 in the data storage medium 15, which is shown in Figure 3. The lookup table 16 contains the associations between the nodes 2-6 and the different exercise programs. For example, as shown in Figure 3, the fourth node 5 is associated with the exercise program called "Program 3".

The controller 10 is also pre-programmed during its manufacture to associate a node with a "start" function. For example, the first node 2 may perform this function. Therefore, in an example, a first mode of operation comprises an exercise selection phase. A second mode of operation comprises the exercise program being carried out. In one example, the node associate with the start function is not associated with an exercise program in the look-up table 16. When a user selects the start function after an exercise program has been selected, the controller 10 switches from the first mode of operation to the second mode of operation and begins to perform a selected exercise program. The controller 10 continues in the second mode of operation, performing the selected exercise program, until a predetermined period of time has expired or until a predetermined user score has been reached, which corresponds to the number of sensors 14 that the user has correctly activated during an exercise program, or after the program sequence has been completed. The controller 10 then ends the exercise program and switches back to its first mode of operation. In some examples, the controller's first mode of operation and its second mode of operation are distinct from one another. In this example, during the first mode of operation, the controller 10 determines that activation of a sensor 14 of a node by a user is for selecting a particular function associated with the node, such as an associated exercise program or selecting the "start" function. During the second mode of operation, the controller 10 determines that activation of a sensor 14 of a node by a user is in response to the illumination of a light source 13 during an exercise program.

The surface of the mat 7 comprises explanatory text for assisting the user in visually identifying which of the nodes is associated with which function/exercise program.

Referring now particularly to Figures 4-7, in use, a user places the mat 7 on a floor, connects the mains connection to a suitable electrical outlet, and turns the exercise apparatus 1 on, for example using a switch (not shown) provided on the control unit 9. The controller 10 is initially in its first mode of operation.

The user moves the ball 8 over one of the nodes 3-6 using their feet, so as to select the exercise sequence/program associated with the node 3-6. In this example, referring to Figure 4, the user moves the ball 8 over the fourth node 5, which activates the sensor 14 of the fourth node 5. In response, the controller 10 selects the exercise program associated with the fourth node 5, i.e. "Program 3".

Referring to Figure 5, the user then moves the ball 8 over the first node 2 to select the associated "start" function and, in response, the controller 10 switches from its first mode of operation to its second mode of operation and starts to perform the previously selected exercise program, "Program 3".

Referring to Figure 6, the first step of the selected exercise program is that the controller 10 lights up the light source 13 of the third node 4 to set a target for the user. This prompts the user to move (e.g. roll) the ball 8 over to the third node 4 using one or both of their feet. If the user moves the ball 8 over the third node 4, the ball 8 blocks light to the sensor 14 of the third node 4, which activates the sensor 14. This prompts the controller 10 to determine that the user has moved the ball 8 to the correct target node.

If the controller 10 determines that the user has moved the ball 8 to the correct node, it awards the user with a score, for example one point. The user's tally of scored points is shown on the display 12 of the control unit 9. The controller 10 then provides feedback, such as an audible alarm, and turns off the light source 13 of the third node 4. If the user has not activated the sensor 14 of the third node 4 after a predetermined period of time, the controller 10 determines that the user has not moved the ball 8 to the correct node, and does not award the user a point. The controller 10 then provides feedback, such as an audible alarm, and turns off the light source 13 of the third node 4.

In some examples, particularly if the user is using a transparent ball 8, the feedback provided by the controller may be the light source 13 of the node being turned off. In some examples, the controller lights up the light sources of the plurality of nodes 2-6 in different colours to indicate that the user should move the ball 8 over a node 2-6 using a particular foot. For example, a light source 13 may display or emit a blue light to indicate that the user should move the ball 8 over the node with their right foot, or the light source 13 may display/emit an orange light to indicate that the user should move the ball 8 over the node with their left foot.

Referring to Figure 7, after determining whether or not the user has moved the ball 8 to the third node 4, the next step of the selected exercise program is that the controller 10 lights up the light source 13 of the fifth node 6 to set a new target. This prompts the user to move the ball 8 over to the fifth node 6 using one or both of their feet. If the user moves the ball 8 over the fifth node 6, the ball 8 blocks light to the sensor 14 of the fifth node 6, which activates the sensor 14. This prompts the controller 10 to determine that the user has moved the ball 8 to the correct node. In some examples, the feedback provided by the controller 10 may be the turning off of the light source 13 of a node and the illumination of the light source 13 of another node.

As above, if the controller 10 determines that the user has moved the ball 8 to the correct node within the predetermined period of time, it awards the user with one point and turns off the light source 13 of the fifth node 6. If not, it does not award the user with a point and then turns off the light source 13 of the fifth node.

The selected exercise program continues with the controller 10 lighting up light sources 13 of different nodes 2-6 to set new targets to prompt the user to move the ball 8 to the associated nodes, until a predetermined period of exercise time or a predetermined score has been reached. The controller 10 then turns off all of the light sources 13, ends the exercise program and switches to its first mode of operation.

In order to begin a new exercise program the user can select and start a particular desired exercise program as described above. In an example, a mobile application may be provided. The mobile application can connect wirelessly to the controller 10 and act as a scoreboard, displaying the score of a user and/or the time that has elapsed during an exercise program. In an example, the mobile application may be used by the user when the controller 10 is in its first mode of operation. The mobile application may thus allow a user to actuate a particular node to select its associated exercise program and then allow the user to actuate a node associated with a "start" function to switch the controller 10 into its second mode of operation and begin the selected exercise program.

Referring to Figure 8, an alternative example of an exercise apparatus 21 is shown. The exercise apparatus 21 is substantially similar to the exercise apparatus 1 described above. However, the exercise apparatus 21 comprises a plurality of nodes arranged in a different configuration to the plurality of nodes 2-6 of the exercise apparatus 1 shown in Figures 1 and 4-7. Specifically, in this example the exercise apparatus 21 comprises thirteen nodes 22-26, 213-220 arranged in a network on a flexible mat 27. Each node 22-26, 213-220 and the mat 27 are the same as described above with reference to the above example. A ball 28 is also provided, which is also the same as the ball in the above example.

The plurality of nodes 22-26, 213-220 consist of a first, central node 22 positioned at the centre of the mat 27 and surrounded by two concentric circular rings of nodes. A first ring of nodes 217-220 is positioned adjacent the central node 22. A second ring of nodes 23-26, 213-216 is positioned adjacent the ring circle of nodes 217- 220.

As with the exercise apparatus 1 described above, a control unit 29 is provided for controlling the operation of the exercise apparatus 21 and in particular the plurality of nodes 22-26, 213-220. The control unit 29 has substantially the same features and functions as the control unit 9 of the exercise apparatus 1 described above. Thus, the control unit 29 comprises a controller 210, such as a microcontroller, and a data storage medium 215, which are both provided within a housing 21 1. A display 212 is mounted to the housing 21 1 for displaying information and data associated with the exercise apparatus 21 .

As with the controller 10 of the exercise apparatus 1 described above, the controller 210 is pre-programmed to associate a "start" function with the central node 22, and associate a different exercise program with each node in the second ring of nodes 23-26, 213-216.

Certain nodes may be associated with other exercise parameters other than an exercise program. For example, the controller 210 is also pre-programmed to associate a difficulty rating with each node in the first ring of nodes 217-220 adjacent the central node 22 so that a user can adjust the difficulty of a selected exercise program. In other examples, any of the nodes 23-26, 213-220 may be associated with a difficulty rating after a particular exercise program has been selected. To this end, in this example, the controller 210 is pre-programmed during its manufacture to store a lookup table 221 in the data storage medium 215, which is shown in Figure 9. The lookup table 221 contains the associations between the nodes 23-26, 213-220 and the different exercise programs or difficulty ratings. For example, as shown in Figure 9, a fourth node 25 is associated with the exercise program called "Program 3" and a tenth node 217 is associated with a difficulty rating of "Easy".

The controller 210 can adjust the difficulty of an exercise program by, for example, increasing or decreasing the predetermined time that the exercise program runs for, increasing or decreasing the predetermined score required to end the exercise program, or increasing or decreasing the predetermined time that a light source 13 of a node is illuminated for.

In use, with the controller 210 initially in its first mode of operation, a user moves the ball 28 over a node in the second ring of nodes 23-26, 213-216 to activate the sensor 14 of that node. The controller 210 identifies the node with the activated sensor 14 and, in response, selects the particular exercise program associated with that node. The user then moves the ball 28 over a node in the first ring of nodes 217-220 to activate the sensor 14 of that node. The controller 210 identifies the node with the activated sensor 14 and, in response, selects the difficulty rating associated with that node. The user then moves the ball 28 over the central node 22 to activate the sensor

14 of that node, which in this example is associated with a "start" function. The controller 210 then, in response, switches to its second mode of operation and begins to perform the selected exercise program with the selected difficulty rating. The exercise program is as described above with reference to the example shown in Figures 1 and 4- 7. Referring to Figure 10, an alternative example of an exercise apparatus 31 is shown. The exercise apparatus 31 is substantially similar to the exercise apparatus 21 described above.

In this example the exercise apparatus 31 comprises thirteen nodes 32-36, 313- 320 arranged in a network on a flexible mat 37. Each node 32-36, 313-320 and the mat 37 are the same as described above with reference to the above example. A ball 38 is also provided, which is also the same as the ball in the above example.

The plurality of nodes 32-36, 313-320 consist of a first, central node 32 positioned at the centre of the mat 37 and surrounded by two concentric circular rings of nodes. A first ring of nodes 317-320 is positioned adjacent the central node 32. A second ring of nodes 33-36, 313-316 is positioned adjacent the ring circle of nodes 3 17- 320.

As with the exercise apparatus 21 described above, a control unit 39 is provided for controlling the operation of the exercise apparatus 31 and in particular the plurality of nodes 32-36, 313-320. The control unit 39 has substantially the same features and functions as the control unit 29 of the exercise apparatus 21 described above. Thus, the control unit 39 comprises a controller 310, such as a microcontroller, and a data storage medium 315, which are both provided within a housing 31 1. A display 312 is mounted to the housing 31 1 for displaying information and data associated with the exercise apparatus 31.

As with the controller 20 of the exercise apparatus 21 described above, the controller 310 is pre-programmed to associate a "start" function with the central node 32, and associate a different exercise program with each node in the second ring of nodes 33-36, 313-316.

As with the exercise apparatus 21 described above, certain nodes may be associated with other exercise parameters other than an exercise program. For example, the controller 310 is also pre-programmed to associate a predetermined exercise program duration with each node in the first ring of nodes 317-320 adjacent the central node 32 so that a user can adjust the duration of a selected exercise program.

To this end, in this example, the controller 310 is pre-programmed during its manufacture to store a lookup table 321 in the data storage medium 315, which is shown in Figure 1 1. The lookup table 321 contains the associations between the nodes 33-36, 313-320 and the different exercise programs or predetermined exercise program durations. For example, as shown in Figure 1 1 , a fourth node 35 is associated with the exercise program called "Program 3" and a tenth node 317 is associated with an exercise program duration of 1 minute.

In use, with the controller 310 initially in its first mode of operation, a user moves the ball 38 over a node in the second ring of nodes 33-36, 313-316 to activate the sensor 14 of that node. The controller 310 identifies the node with the activated sensor 14 and, in response, selects the particular exercise program associated with that node.

The user then moves the ball 38 over a node in the first ring of nodes 317-320 to activate the sensor 14 of that node. The controller 310 identifies the node with the activated sensor 14 and, in response, selects the exercise program duration associated with that node.

The user then moves the ball 38 over the central node 32 to activate the sensor 14 of that node, which in this example is associated with a "start" function. The controller 310 then, in response, switches to its second mode of operation and begins to perform the selected exercise program with the selected exercise program duration. The exercise program is as described above with reference to the example shown in Figures 1 and 4-7.

With the apparatus and method described above, it is quick, easy and intuitive for a user to select and start a particular exercise program since the user is not required to select an exercise program by navigating a graphical user interface. This leads to a user being more willing to use and re-use the exercise apparatus to train and improve their reactions and coordination skills, particularly their ball control technique of a football.

In addition, with the apparatus and method described above, a complicated graphical user interface and corresponding display is not necessarily required because of the above described functionality of the nodes. As such, manufacturing complexity and costs may be reduced.

The examples described herein are to be understood as illustrative examples of embodiments of the invention. Further embodiments and examples are envisaged. Any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may be used alone or in combination with other features. In addition, any feature described in relation to any one example or embodiment may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the examples or embodiments, or any combination of any other of the examples or embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described herein may also be employed within the scope of the invention, which is defined in the claims.

In some examples, the user may activate the photosensors 14 of the plurality of nodes 2-6 by using their hands rather than by manipulating a ball with their feet. This can be used to improve the user's hand speed and reaction time.

In some examples, an exercise program associated with a node may be selected as a direct response to actuation of the node.