Electronic pace regulating, timing, and coaching device and system

• US 7,081,809 B1
• Filed: 08/01/2003
• Issued: 07/25/2006
• Est. Priority Date: 08/01/2003
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: FINIS, Inc.
• Original Assignee: FINIS, Inc.
• Inventors: Viala, Roar, Mix, John
• Primary Examiner(s): TRIEU, VAN THANH
• Application Number:
  US10/632,464
• Time in Patent Office: 1,089 Days
• Field of Search: 340/323.R, 340/326, 340/327, 340/328, 340/331, 340/815.69, 340/384.7, 340/384.71, 340/396.1, 340/309.16, 340/309.8, 340/309.9, 340/321, 482/3, 482/8, 235/105, 600/26, 600/27, 600/28, 377/24.2, 377/112, 2/5, 242/6, 351/41, 351/43, 351/158
• US Class Current: 340/321
• CPC Class Codes: A63B 2225/60 Apparatus used in water
• CPC Class Codes: A63B 71/0686 Timers, rhythm indicators or pacing apparatus using electric or electronic means

Abstract

This invention relates to systems to regulate pace. More particularly, this invention relates to providing a user with a regulated pace through the use of an electronic pace regulating, timing, and coaching device. In accordance with the instant invention, a portable programmable electronic device is configured to provide an audible signal at a repeated frequency that is selectable by the user. The pace timer and coaching device provides the user with a set audible cue at a set frequency to be followed during an exercise session. The audible cues provide a single regulated pace to be followed by the user while performing repetitive actions, motions, or strokes such that a desired training or racing pace is adhered to. The device is configured to detachably couple to swim goggles, to a user, to sunglasses, to an arm band, to exercise equipment, or to other articles of clothing utilized while exercising.

Claims

1. A portable electronic device wherein the portable electronic device is configured to provide an audible signal at a repeated frequency selectable by a user wherein the repeated frequency corresponds to an interval between two tenths of a second and ten minutes and wherein the electronic device comprises:

a. a timing unit contained within a waterproof housing, wherein the timing unit comprises;

i. a plurality of buttons configured to allow the user to select a single frequency as the repeated frequency;

ii. a display configured to display a numerical representation of the repeated frequency selected by the user; and

iii. a power source; and

b. a detachable clip member configured to detachably couple to the timing unit and to a pair goggles.

2. The portable electronic device of claim 1, wherein the plurality of buttons are further configured to turn the portable electronic device on and off and to increase or decrease the single frequency selected by the user.

3. The portable electronic device of claim 1, wherein the timing unit is waterproof and is formed from a high impact plastic.

4. A electronic pacing device comprising:

a. a housing, comprising;

i. a programmable timing circuit configured to allow a user to select a single pacing frequency through a plurality of buttons;

ii. means for providing an audible signal corresponding to the pacing frequency; and

b. a clip member configured to detachably couple the housing and to eye wear.

5. The electronic pacing device of claim 4, wherein the housing is waterproof and is formed from a high impact plastic.

6. The electronic pacing device of claim 4, wherein the programmable timing circuit is further configured to allow the user to select a duration of time for which the audible signal is to be provided.

7. The electronic pacing device of claim 4, wherein the pacing frequency is an interval between two tenths of a second and ten minutes.

8. The electronic pacing device of claim 4, wherein the programmable timing circuit is further configured to store preferred settings inputted by the user.

9. An electronic tempo device comprising

a detachable clip member for detachably coupling to goggles and detachably coupling to a housing and

wherein the housing comprises:

a. a programmable timer configured to be programmed with a single set frequency interval;

b. means for providing a repeated audible cue at the set frequency interval;

c. a display configured to display a numerical representation of the set frequency interval;

d. a power source configured to provide power to the means for providing a repeated audible cue and the programmable timer; and

e. means for inputting controls to the device, wherein the means for inputting controls to the device is configured to turn the device on and off and program the set frequency interval.

10. The electronic tempo device of claim 9, wherein the timer further comprises a storage means configured to record, receive, and store use data and output a user outcome.

11. The electronic tempo device of claim 9, further comprising a processor chip with firmware.

12. The electronic tempo device of claim 11, wherein the processor chip with firmware is configured to convert cycle rates to cycles per a unit time.

13. The electronic tempo device of claim 9, wherein the housing is waterproof and is formed from a high impact plastic.

14. A timing device comprising a clip member for detachably clipping to a goggle strap and detachably coupling to a waterproof housing unit for housing:

a. a timing unit contained within the waterproof housing, wherein the timing unit comprises and input means to select an input a frequency corresponding to an interval between two tenths of a second and ten minutes;

b. an audio means to produce a sound corresponding to the frequency; and

c. a power source.