CA1160373A - Video game exercising device - Google Patents
Video game exercising deviceInfo
- Publication number
- CA1160373A CA1160373A CA000363053A CA363053A CA1160373A CA 1160373 A CA1160373 A CA 1160373A CA 000363053 A CA000363053 A CA 000363053A CA 363053 A CA363053 A CA 363053A CA 1160373 A CA1160373 A CA 1160373A
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- exercise
- control means
- marker
- electronic control
- motion
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired
Links
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 33
- 239000003550 marker Substances 0.000 claims abstract description 26
- 230000003252 repetitive effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 19
- 238000012544 monitoring process Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 17
- 238000010304 firing Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 230000002093 peripheral effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 description 3
- 206010048909 Boredom Diseases 0.000 description 2
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000010586 diagram Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 description 2
- 239000004020 conductor Substances 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002688 persistence Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
- A63F13/40—Processing input control signals of video game devices, e.g. signals generated by the player or derived from the environment
- A63F13/42—Processing input control signals of video game devices, e.g. signals generated by the player or derived from the environment by mapping the input signals into game commands, e.g. mapping the displacement of a stylus on a touch screen to the steering angle of a virtual vehicle
- A63F13/428—Processing input control signals of video game devices, e.g. signals generated by the player or derived from the environment by mapping the input signals into game commands, e.g. mapping the displacement of a stylus on a touch screen to the steering angle of a virtual vehicle involving motion or position input signals, e.g. signals representing the rotation of an input controller or a player's arm motions sensed by accelerometers or gyroscopes
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
- A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
- A63F13/816—Athletics, e.g. track-and-field sports
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B24/00—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of preceding groups; Controlling or monitoring of exercises, sportive games, training or athletic performances
- A63B24/0087—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load
- A63B2024/009—Electric or electronic controls for exercising apparatus of groups A63B21/00 - A63B23/00, e.g. controlling load the load of the exercise apparatus being controlled in synchronism with visualising systems, e.g. hill slope
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B2220/00—Measuring of physical parameters relating to sporting activity
- A63B2220/17—Counting, e.g. counting periodical movements, revolutions or cycles, or including further data processing to determine distances or speed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
- A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
- A63F13/21—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types
- A63F13/219—Input arrangements for video game devices characterised by their sensors, purposes or types for aiming at specific areas on the display, e.g. light-guns
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
- A63F13/20—Input arrangements for video game devices
- A63F13/24—Constructional details thereof, e.g. game controllers with detachable joystick handles
- A63F13/245—Constructional details thereof, e.g. game controllers with detachable joystick handles specially adapted to a particular type of game, e.g. steering wheels
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F13/00—Video games, i.e. games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions
- A63F13/80—Special adaptations for executing a specific game genre or game mode
- A63F13/837—Shooting of targets
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
- A63F2300/10—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals
- A63F2300/1062—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game characterized by input arrangements for converting player-generated signals into game device control signals being specially adapted to a type of game, e.g. steering wheel
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63F—CARD, BOARD, OR ROULETTE GAMES; INDOOR GAMES USING SMALL MOVING PLAYING BODIES; VIDEO GAMES; GAMES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- A63F2300/00—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game
- A63F2300/80—Features of games using an electronically generated display having two or more dimensions, e.g. on a television screen, showing representations related to the game specially adapted for executing a specific type of game
- A63F2300/8076—Shooting
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Multimedia (AREA)
- Human Computer Interaction (AREA)
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Closed-Circuit Television Systems (AREA)
Abstract
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE
A device for translating exercise movement from a mechan-ical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a tele-vision screen. The device comprises a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of repetition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related frequency. An electronic control means is provided to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen. The electronic control means comprises input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, and a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, a video screen to translate frequency of pulses to a corresponding rate of motion in a given direction for a marker on the video screen. The device preferably further comprises a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the operator, the electronic control means to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screen. The electronic control means may also comprise memory means electronically associated with the microprocessor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected. Such device permits one or more operators of mechanical repetitive exercise means to coordinate the motion of one or more corresponding markers on a video screen with the operation of that exercise means.
A device for translating exercise movement from a mechan-ical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a tele-vision screen. The device comprises a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of repetition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related frequency. An electronic control means is provided to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen. The electronic control means comprises input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, and a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, a video screen to translate frequency of pulses to a corresponding rate of motion in a given direction for a marker on the video screen. The device preferably further comprises a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the operator, the electronic control means to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screen. The electronic control means may also comprise memory means electronically associated with the microprocessor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected. Such device permits one or more operators of mechanical repetitive exercise means to coordinate the motion of one or more corresponding markers on a video screen with the operation of that exercise means.
Description
3'73 BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a device For transla~ing the exercise movement of a mechanical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a T.V. screen.
Patents of general background interlest relating ~o video games technology include Canadian Patent No. 999,888 issued November 16thJ 1976 of Eaer et al entitled "Television Gaming Apparatus and Method" and Canadian Patent ~o. 1,053,365 issued April 24th, 1979 of Bushnell entitled "Video Image Control System for Amusement Device".
There appears to be littIe prior art technology however which teaches the coordinating of the motion of a repetitive mechanical exercise device such as an exercise bicycle, mechanical rowing machine, exercise treadmill or the like, with the movement of a marker on a television screen.
; A system which would enable a person exercising on such a device to thereby govern the speed and, if desired, direction by which a marker on a television screen moves would be clearly useful and of value as a commercial item. Such an apparatus would enable competition, say, between two persons exercising on such exercise devices where their exercise motions governed the movement of corresponding markers on a television screen. A race course or obstacle course might be provided on the screen about which the markers of the competitors would be required to pass. A single operator could compete against himself by providing a timlng device on the screen which would indicate the time taken for the operator to move his marker a predetermined distance on the screen or along a predetermined course thereon~ It will be readily appreciated that `,,:: ~ 1 --3 ~3 such an apparatus would remove some of the boredom from the operation of such a repetitive mechanical exercise device by enabling the operator, while exercising, to take part in a competition or game involving the movement of a marker on a television screen.
SUMM~RY OF THE INVENTION
. . .
According to the present invention~ a device for trans-lating exercise movement from a mechanical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a television screen is provided. The device comprises a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of rep-etition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related fre-quency. An electronic control means is provided to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen. The electronic control means comprises input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, and a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, the video screen, to translate frequency of pulses to a corresponding rate of motion in a given direction for a ~arker on the video screen.
The device preferably further comprises a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the OperatQr~ the electronic control means to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screenO ~he electronic control means may also comprise memory means electronically associated wlth 3'~3 the microprocessor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected. Such device permits one or more operators of mechanical repetitlve exercise means to coordinate the motion of one or more corresponding markers on a video screen with the operation of that exercise means, A time display and/or control means may be also provided with the device, for example to display to the operator the time which it takes him to move his marker along a predetermined course on the video screen or to limit the time the game may be playedO As a further variant, missile aiming and firing means may be provided, according to video games technology now known, to enable the operator to take part in more complicated types of television games requiring seeking out and destroying of targets.
The device according to this invention besides achieving the aforementioned objects, permits the elements of endurance and/or competition to be brought directly to the operator of such an ; exercise means andp as previously suggested, reduces the boredom associated ~ith such a repetitive exercise means. ~here a timer is associated with the device, it will be immediately appreciated that the training value of such a device is enhanced.
BRIEF_DESCRIPTION OF T~ DRAGItGS
These and other objects~and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by refer~ring to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a device according to the present invention as applied to an exercise bicycle;
Figure 2 is a block diagram of the electronic system of an 3'~3 example embodiment of such a device, set up to operate for one or two persons simultaneously, and for different types of mechanical repetitive exercise means;
Figure 3 is a schematic view in detail of a frequency monitoring means associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means;
Eigures 4a and b are front views, and Figure 4c is a side view of hand control devices which may be used to control the direction of movement of the marker on the video screen and Eigure 5 is a flow chart of programming steps to start the device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE D AWINGS
In the drawings, slmilar Eeatures have been given sLmilar reference numerals.
Turning to Figure 1, there is shown a schematlc drawing of a device according to the present invention associated with a mechanlcal repetitive exercise means 2, which in thls instance happens to be an exercise bicycle. To the exercise bicycle 2 is attached a frequency monitoring means 4, shown in detail in Figure 3, which converts the frequency of repetition of exercise means 2 and to electronic pulses of related frequency. These electronic pulses are fed electrically to electronic control module 6 where they are translated to provide a corresponding rate of motion for a marker which appears on television screen 8 electronically associated with electronic control means 6. The exercise bicycle is also provided with turn control means 10 manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the .
,. , 3s73 operator, these signals being translated by the electronic control means into corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screen 8. Similarly, a weapon firing button 12 provides appropriate electronic signals to the electronic control module 6 where they are translated to govern the movement of a missile marker on screen 8.
The nucleus of the device is electronic control means 6, a schematic diagram of which is shown in Figure 2. Connections from electronic control means 6 to external controls are made by way of an appropriate multi-conductor cable 14. Connections to the video screen 8 are made by way of coaxial cable 15. Controls are pre-ferably permanently fixed to these cables and are suitably tied down to prevent wires from becoming disconnected. The electronic control means 6 is provided with a three wired AC cord and plug for connection to an appropriete power source.
As can be seen in Figure 2, the electronic control means 6 comprises a microprocessor 16 which scans the input controls feeding into peripheral interface adapter 18. This scanning may be for example at l/60 of a second intervals. The memory of the basic game pattern to be displayed on screen 8 is permanently stored in micro-processor 16 and selected by selection switch 20. That information is passed from microprocessor 16 to random acress memory 22 by way of bus multiplexer 24.
On receipt of the appropriate addrees signal from address decode controller 26, the random access memory 22 transmits the basic ~66~3~7~
game pattern to the video display generator 28 which in turn transmits the pattern to colour T~V. modulator 30 where it is sent to the television screen 8.
In operation, when a program (game) is selected and the start switch 32 is activated, the ga~e commences. When a particular game pattern is selected by selection switch 20, and the basic game pattern appears on the television screen 8, microprocessor 16 then scans the input controls at peripheral interface adapter 18 to determine the status of a particular pIayer or players. As the in-puts are scanned, data is transmitted to screen 8 in accordance with the type of the input and signal from it. For example, speed signals from frequency monltoring means 4 will appear as a serles of on/off pulses at the rate of revolution or other type of operation of the frequency monitoring means 4. Pre-programming will translate this to a rate of motion for~the associated marker on the screen.
Information from each scan is then passed through the peripheral interface adapter 18 to the microprocessor 16, the bus multiplexer 2~, random access memory 22, video display generator 28 and colour T.V. modulator 30 in the same manner as the basic game pattern. Thus, every 1/60 of a second the screen conditions are all refreshed. This rate, coupled with the image persistence of the video screen, will ensure that motion, while actually displayed in 1/60 of a second intervals appears to be continuous.
Other controls are polled in the same manner and suitable actions occur on the T.V. screen.
As can be seen in Figure 3, a frequency monitoring means 4 3`f'3 provided for an exercise bicycle or treadmill type of mechanical exercise means comprises an idler wheel 34 secured to the frame of the exercise bicycle or treadmill so that it rotates in the direction of rotation of the drive mechanism 35 of the exercise bicycle or treadmill, and bears against that drive mechanism so that it rotates at a speed in proportion to that at which the drive mechanism rotates. A light beam 36 from an appropriate source such as an LED
(Light ~mitting Diode) 38 is passed periodically through a hole in the idler wheel to be picked up by a photosensitive cell 40 provides appropriate input to the electronic control means 6 for operation of the device.
Figure 4 illustrates types of hand controls which ~ay be adapted to the device of the invention and electrically associated with electronic control module 6. Figures 4a and 4b illustrate left and right hand control devices respectively, showing left hand turn button 42, right hand turn button 44 and a push button for simulated misslle firing 46. In Figure 4c a modified type of hand control having squeeze control 48, tension control 50 and appropriate right or left hand push button and/or simulated weapon firing button 52.
Speed of the video marker is simulated by squeezing squeeze control 48, which action produces appropriate eIectronic pulses to be transmitted to electronic control module 6~
Finally, Figure 5 illustrates a flow chart of programming for starting of all games.
The program starts when the power source is engaged and the switch is turned on. This initializes the peripheral interface adapter input parts in preparation for acceptance of data from the .
~373 various controls.
Following this step, a junction occurs which allows an interrupt from any of the games to reset the game. This may be from a separate reset switch or could occur automatically by switching ; from one game to another. This is a required function which can be readily implemented by either method~
After the peripheral interface adapter is initialized, the random access memory is cleared (part of the reset function) of all previous data. This clears the video screen of any outline or game status showing at the time.
After clearing the random access memory, the game select switch is placed in the appropriate position for the game desired.
This in turn runs a predetermlned program into random access memory thus causing the game outline to appear on the screen.
Following this step, the start switch is pressed to initiate the game timer. The timer increments in 1/100 second steps.
As the timer runs, digits on the screen add up the elapsed time in hours (H), minutes (M) and seconds (S) as suggested in Figure 5.
While the invention has been described in detail in respect of the preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
The present invention relates to a device For transla~ing the exercise movement of a mechanical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a T.V. screen.
Patents of general background interlest relating ~o video games technology include Canadian Patent No. 999,888 issued November 16thJ 1976 of Eaer et al entitled "Television Gaming Apparatus and Method" and Canadian Patent ~o. 1,053,365 issued April 24th, 1979 of Bushnell entitled "Video Image Control System for Amusement Device".
There appears to be littIe prior art technology however which teaches the coordinating of the motion of a repetitive mechanical exercise device such as an exercise bicycle, mechanical rowing machine, exercise treadmill or the like, with the movement of a marker on a television screen.
; A system which would enable a person exercising on such a device to thereby govern the speed and, if desired, direction by which a marker on a television screen moves would be clearly useful and of value as a commercial item. Such an apparatus would enable competition, say, between two persons exercising on such exercise devices where their exercise motions governed the movement of corresponding markers on a television screen. A race course or obstacle course might be provided on the screen about which the markers of the competitors would be required to pass. A single operator could compete against himself by providing a timlng device on the screen which would indicate the time taken for the operator to move his marker a predetermined distance on the screen or along a predetermined course thereon~ It will be readily appreciated that `,,:: ~ 1 --3 ~3 such an apparatus would remove some of the boredom from the operation of such a repetitive mechanical exercise device by enabling the operator, while exercising, to take part in a competition or game involving the movement of a marker on a television screen.
SUMM~RY OF THE INVENTION
. . .
According to the present invention~ a device for trans-lating exercise movement from a mechanical repetitive exercise means into the motion of a marker on a television screen is provided. The device comprises a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of rep-etition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related fre-quency. An electronic control means is provided to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen. The electronic control means comprises input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, and a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, the video screen, to translate frequency of pulses to a corresponding rate of motion in a given direction for a ~arker on the video screen.
The device preferably further comprises a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the OperatQr~ the electronic control means to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screenO ~he electronic control means may also comprise memory means electronically associated wlth 3'~3 the microprocessor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected. Such device permits one or more operators of mechanical repetitlve exercise means to coordinate the motion of one or more corresponding markers on a video screen with the operation of that exercise means, A time display and/or control means may be also provided with the device, for example to display to the operator the time which it takes him to move his marker along a predetermined course on the video screen or to limit the time the game may be playedO As a further variant, missile aiming and firing means may be provided, according to video games technology now known, to enable the operator to take part in more complicated types of television games requiring seeking out and destroying of targets.
The device according to this invention besides achieving the aforementioned objects, permits the elements of endurance and/or competition to be brought directly to the operator of such an ; exercise means andp as previously suggested, reduces the boredom associated ~ith such a repetitive exercise means. ~here a timer is associated with the device, it will be immediately appreciated that the training value of such a device is enhanced.
BRIEF_DESCRIPTION OF T~ DRAGItGS
These and other objects~and advantages of the present invention will be more fully understood by refer~ring to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic view of a device according to the present invention as applied to an exercise bicycle;
Figure 2 is a block diagram of the electronic system of an 3'~3 example embodiment of such a device, set up to operate for one or two persons simultaneously, and for different types of mechanical repetitive exercise means;
Figure 3 is a schematic view in detail of a frequency monitoring means associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means;
Eigures 4a and b are front views, and Figure 4c is a side view of hand control devices which may be used to control the direction of movement of the marker on the video screen and Eigure 5 is a flow chart of programming steps to start the device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE D AWINGS
In the drawings, slmilar Eeatures have been given sLmilar reference numerals.
Turning to Figure 1, there is shown a schematlc drawing of a device according to the present invention associated with a mechanlcal repetitive exercise means 2, which in thls instance happens to be an exercise bicycle. To the exercise bicycle 2 is attached a frequency monitoring means 4, shown in detail in Figure 3, which converts the frequency of repetition of exercise means 2 and to electronic pulses of related frequency. These electronic pulses are fed electrically to electronic control module 6 where they are translated to provide a corresponding rate of motion for a marker which appears on television screen 8 electronically associated with electronic control means 6. The exercise bicycle is also provided with turn control means 10 manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the .
,. , 3s73 operator, these signals being translated by the electronic control means into corresponding direction of motion for the marker on the video screen 8. Similarly, a weapon firing button 12 provides appropriate electronic signals to the electronic control module 6 where they are translated to govern the movement of a missile marker on screen 8.
The nucleus of the device is electronic control means 6, a schematic diagram of which is shown in Figure 2. Connections from electronic control means 6 to external controls are made by way of an appropriate multi-conductor cable 14. Connections to the video screen 8 are made by way of coaxial cable 15. Controls are pre-ferably permanently fixed to these cables and are suitably tied down to prevent wires from becoming disconnected. The electronic control means 6 is provided with a three wired AC cord and plug for connection to an appropriete power source.
As can be seen in Figure 2, the electronic control means 6 comprises a microprocessor 16 which scans the input controls feeding into peripheral interface adapter 18. This scanning may be for example at l/60 of a second intervals. The memory of the basic game pattern to be displayed on screen 8 is permanently stored in micro-processor 16 and selected by selection switch 20. That information is passed from microprocessor 16 to random acress memory 22 by way of bus multiplexer 24.
On receipt of the appropriate addrees signal from address decode controller 26, the random access memory 22 transmits the basic ~66~3~7~
game pattern to the video display generator 28 which in turn transmits the pattern to colour T~V. modulator 30 where it is sent to the television screen 8.
In operation, when a program (game) is selected and the start switch 32 is activated, the ga~e commences. When a particular game pattern is selected by selection switch 20, and the basic game pattern appears on the television screen 8, microprocessor 16 then scans the input controls at peripheral interface adapter 18 to determine the status of a particular pIayer or players. As the in-puts are scanned, data is transmitted to screen 8 in accordance with the type of the input and signal from it. For example, speed signals from frequency monltoring means 4 will appear as a serles of on/off pulses at the rate of revolution or other type of operation of the frequency monitoring means 4. Pre-programming will translate this to a rate of motion for~the associated marker on the screen.
Information from each scan is then passed through the peripheral interface adapter 18 to the microprocessor 16, the bus multiplexer 2~, random access memory 22, video display generator 28 and colour T.V. modulator 30 in the same manner as the basic game pattern. Thus, every 1/60 of a second the screen conditions are all refreshed. This rate, coupled with the image persistence of the video screen, will ensure that motion, while actually displayed in 1/60 of a second intervals appears to be continuous.
Other controls are polled in the same manner and suitable actions occur on the T.V. screen.
As can be seen in Figure 3, a frequency monitoring means 4 3`f'3 provided for an exercise bicycle or treadmill type of mechanical exercise means comprises an idler wheel 34 secured to the frame of the exercise bicycle or treadmill so that it rotates in the direction of rotation of the drive mechanism 35 of the exercise bicycle or treadmill, and bears against that drive mechanism so that it rotates at a speed in proportion to that at which the drive mechanism rotates. A light beam 36 from an appropriate source such as an LED
(Light ~mitting Diode) 38 is passed periodically through a hole in the idler wheel to be picked up by a photosensitive cell 40 provides appropriate input to the electronic control means 6 for operation of the device.
Figure 4 illustrates types of hand controls which ~ay be adapted to the device of the invention and electrically associated with electronic control module 6. Figures 4a and 4b illustrate left and right hand control devices respectively, showing left hand turn button 42, right hand turn button 44 and a push button for simulated misslle firing 46. In Figure 4c a modified type of hand control having squeeze control 48, tension control 50 and appropriate right or left hand push button and/or simulated weapon firing button 52.
Speed of the video marker is simulated by squeezing squeeze control 48, which action produces appropriate eIectronic pulses to be transmitted to electronic control module 6~
Finally, Figure 5 illustrates a flow chart of programming for starting of all games.
The program starts when the power source is engaged and the switch is turned on. This initializes the peripheral interface adapter input parts in preparation for acceptance of data from the .
~373 various controls.
Following this step, a junction occurs which allows an interrupt from any of the games to reset the game. This may be from a separate reset switch or could occur automatically by switching ; from one game to another. This is a required function which can be readily implemented by either method~
After the peripheral interface adapter is initialized, the random access memory is cleared (part of the reset function) of all previous data. This clears the video screen of any outline or game status showing at the time.
After clearing the random access memory, the game select switch is placed in the appropriate position for the game desired.
This in turn runs a predetermlned program into random access memory thus causing the game outline to appear on the screen.
Following this step, the start switch is pressed to initiate the game timer. The timer increments in 1/100 second steps.
As the timer runs, digits on the screen add up the elapsed time in hours (H), minutes (M) and seconds (S) as suggested in Figure 5.
While the invention has been described in detail in respect of the preferred embodiments, it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary it is intended to cover all alternatives, modifications and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the present invention.
Claims (16)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:
1. A device for translating exercise movement into the motion of the marker of a television screen comprising:
(a) a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of repetition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related frequency;
(b) electronic control means to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen, the electronic control means comprising:
(i) input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, (ii) a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, to control directly the position and the rate of motion of an electronic marker on the video screen, to translate frequency of pulses received by the input scanning means to a corresponding rate of motion for that marker.
(a) a frequency monitoring means to be associated with a mechanical repetitive exercise means to convert the frequency of repetition of the exercise means into electronic pulses of related frequency;
(b) electronic control means to be electronically connected to receive input from the frequency monitoring means and to be electronically associated with a video screen, the electronic control means comprising:
(i) input scanning means to scan input pulses received from the frequency monitoring means, (ii) a microprocessor electronically associated with the input scanning means and, when operational, to control directly the position and the rate of motion of an electronic marker on the video screen, to translate frequency of pulses received by the input scanning means to a corresponding rate of motion for that marker.
2. A device according to claim 1 further comprising:
(c) a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the operator, the electronic control means to be electronically connected to receive input from the turn control means, the input scanning means to similarly scan input signals received from the turn control means, and the microprocessor to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the corresponding marker on the video screen.
(c) a turn control means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to identify a degree of turn for the operator, the electronic control means to be electronically connected to receive input from the turn control means, the input scanning means to similarly scan input signals received from the turn control means, and the microprocessor to translate such signals into a corresponding direction of motion for the corresponding marker on the video screen.
3. A device according to claim 2, wherein the electronic control means further comprises:
(d) memory means electronically associated with the micro-processor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected, (e) selection means actuable by the operator for selecting a predetermined desired game pattern, (f) means to transmit the basic game pattern to the video screen.
(d) memory means electronically associated with the micro-processor for storing one or more basic game patterns according to which the motion of the marker will be affected, (e) selection means actuable by the operator for selecting a predetermined desired game pattern, (f) means to transmit the basic game pattern to the video screen.
4. A device according to claim 3, further comprising:
(g) missile aiming and firing means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to the electronic control means, the electronic control means being electronically connected to receive input from the missile aiming and firing means, the input scanning means to scan input signals received from the missile aiming and firing means and the microprocessor to translate such signals into the movement of a missile marker on the video screen.
(g) missile aiming and firing means manually actuable by the operator to provide electronic signals to the electronic control means, the electronic control means being electronically connected to receive input from the missile aiming and firing means, the input scanning means to scan input signals received from the missile aiming and firing means and the microprocessor to translate such signals into the movement of a missile marker on the video screen.
5. A device according to claim 4, wherein the missile aiming means is the turn control means.
6. A device according to claim 2, 3 or 4, wherein a plurality of frequency monitoring means are provided to be associated with a plurality of corresponding mechanical repetitive exercise means, and the electronic control means is adapted to scan the electronic input received and translate such input respectively into the motion of corresponding markers shown simultaneously on the video screen.
7. A device according to claim 2, further comprising a mech-anical repetitive exercise means with which the frequency monitoring means is associated.
8. A device according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical repetitive exercise means is a stationary rowing machine.
9. A device according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical repetitive exercise means comprises a mechanical hand squeezer.
10. A device according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical repetitive exercise means comprises an exercise treadmill.
11. A device according to claim 7, wherein the mechanical repetitive exercise means comprises a stationary exercise bicycle.
12. A device according to claim 2, further comprising a stationary exercise bicycle, the frequency monitoring means comprising means associated with the rotating bicycle wheel and to rotate at a speed corresponding to that of the bicycle wheel.
13. A device according to claim 12, wherein the frequency monitoring means comprises an idler wheel bearing against the rotating wheel of the exercise bicycle so that it rotates at a speed corresponding to that of the rotating wheel of the exercise bicycle.
14. A device according to claim 13, wherein the speed of the idler wheel is converted into electronic impulses of related frequency by means of a photocell-light beam means acting parallel to the axis of rotation of the idler wheel through a hole for the light beam provided in the idler wheel.
15. A device according to claim 2, further comprising a video screen electronically associated with the electronic control means.
16. A device according to claim 2, further comprising time display means electronically associated with the electronic control means to indicate the period of time which it takes the operator to move his marker along a predetermined course on the video screen.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000363053A CA1160373A (en) | 1980-10-23 | 1980-10-23 | Video game exercising device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000363053A CA1160373A (en) | 1980-10-23 | 1980-10-23 | Video game exercising device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA1160373A true CA1160373A (en) | 1984-01-10 |
Family
ID=4118221
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA000363053A Expired CA1160373A (en) | 1980-10-23 | 1980-10-23 | Video game exercising device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA1160373A (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1987000066A1 (en) * | 1983-02-15 | 1987-01-15 | Connor Laurence John O | Physical exercise machines coupled with computer games |
| EP0199442A3 (en) * | 1985-04-12 | 1987-03-11 | Tsuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Exerciser |
| EP0214748A3 (en) * | 1985-08-05 | 1988-08-03 | Bally Manufacturing Corporation | Improved rowing machine with video display |
-
1980
- 1980-10-23 CA CA000363053A patent/CA1160373A/en not_active Expired
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO1987000066A1 (en) * | 1983-02-15 | 1987-01-15 | Connor Laurence John O | Physical exercise machines coupled with computer games |
| EP0199442A3 (en) * | 1985-04-12 | 1987-03-11 | Tsuyama Mfg. Co., Ltd. | Exerciser |
| EP0214748A3 (en) * | 1985-08-05 | 1988-08-03 | Bally Manufacturing Corporation | Improved rowing machine with video display |
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| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| MKEX | Expiry |