U.S. patent application number 10/613037 was filed with the patent office on 2004-02-19 for exercise machine.
Invention is credited to Van Straaten, Willem Johannes.
Application Number | 20040033868 10/613037 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 30116341 |
Filed Date | 2004-02-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040033868 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Van Straaten, Willem
Johannes |
February 19, 2004 |
Exercise machine
Abstract
An exercise machine which includes a base upon which a user
stands alongside an upwardly extending support. A handle, mounted
to a lever rotatably fixed to the support, extends over the base so
that the user can grip the handle with both hands and rotate the
handle along a circular loop, alternately bending at the knees and
then moving to an upright position, with arms extended, against a
variable resistance force which is generated by a flywheel
connected via a drive mechanism to the lever.
Inventors: |
Van Straaten, Willem Johannes;
(Sandton, ZA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KEUSEY, TUTUNJIAN & BITETTO, P.C.
14 VANDERVENTER AVENUE, SUITE 128
PORT WASHINGTON
NY
11050
US
|
Family ID: |
30116341 |
Appl. No.: |
10/613037 |
Filed: |
July 2, 2003 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/110 ;
482/139 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2022/0623 20130101;
A63B 2022/0617 20130101; A63B 22/0005 20151001; A63B 21/225
20130101; A63B 21/012 20130101; A63B 21/005 20130101; A63B 21/4049
20151001; B62M 3/02 20130101; A63B 2022/0035 20130101; A63B 22/0002
20130101; A63B 22/0605 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B
2210/50 20130101; A63B 21/00192 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/110 ;
482/139 |
International
Class: |
A63B 021/22; A63B
071/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Jul 3, 2002 |
ZA |
2002/2133 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An exercise machine comprising: a support structure; a
resistance assembly connected to the support structure; a drive
member having an output point from which force is applied to the
resistance assembly and an input point which is spaced from the
output point by a distance L; and at least one handle acting on the
drive member at the input point and which a user can engage and
move, in a continuous, load-exerting manner, against a resistance
force generated by the resistance assembly.
2. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein said at least
one handle comprises one handle with which one hand of the user is
engageable.
3. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the at lease
one handle is such that two hands of the user are engageable
therewith.
4. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the user's
arms act in unison on the handle against the resistance force.
5. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the input
point is movable along a path which forms a closed loop.
6. The exercise machine according to claim 5, wherein the path is a
defined circular path.
7. The exercise machine according to claim 5, wherein the closed
loop lies in a substantially vertical plane.
8. The exercise machine according to claim 5, wherein the shape of
the closed loop is dynamically variable.
9. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising at
least one member which is adjustable to vary the distance L.
10. The exercise machine according to claim 9, wherein the at least
one member is adjustable against a biasing element.
11. The exercise machine according to claim 9, further comprising a
releasable fastener acting on the at least one member for
preventing the distance L from varying after adjustment.
12. The exercise machine according to claim 9, wherein the at least
one member is rotatable by the handle about the output point.
13. The exercise machine according to claim 5, wherein the at least
one handle includes grips for the user's hands, the grips being
positioned so that the user's hands, when engaged with the grips,
extend around a common axis which is transverse to the closed
loop.
14. The exercise machine according to claim 5, further comprising
an input axis which is transverse to the closed loop and which
extends through the input point, wherein the at least one handle
includes grips for the user's hands which are positioned on
respective opposed sides of of said input axis.
15. The exercise machine according to claim 14, wherein the grips
are rotatable in unison about the input axis.
16. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the support
structure extends upwardly and includes a base which is attachable
to a floor to stabilise the support structure during use.
17. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the support
structure extends upwardly and includes formations for attaching
the support structure to a wall to stabilise the support structure
machine during use.
18. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the support
structure extends upwardly, the exercise machine further comprising
a base attached to a lower end of the support structure and
providing a platform upon which the user stands so that the user's
mass stabilises the support structure during use thereof.
19. The exercise machine according to claim 6, wherein the circular
path has a highest point which is a distance X above a ground
reference level on which the user stands and a lowest point which
is a distance Y above the ground reference level and wherein
X.gtoreq.2Y.
20. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the support
structure has two upwardly extending supports, the resistance
assembly being mounted to at least one of the supports, and
includes a base which interconnects lower ends of the supports and
forms a platform upon which the user stands.
21. The exercise machine according to claim 20, wherein the
supports are pivotally movable towards, and away from, each
other.
22. The exercise machine according to claim 20, wherein the base
includes a plurality of pivotally interconnected panels.
23. The exercise machine according to claim 20, wherein the
resistance assembly includes a flywheel which is rotatable about an
axis disposed near upper ends of the supports.
24. The exercise machine according to claim 20, wherein the drive
member is adjustable to vary the distance L.
25. The exercise machine according to claim 24, wherein the handle
includes an elongate shaft extending transversely from the drive
member, said elongate shaft being of sufficient length to provide
grips for the user's hands.
26. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a
drive arrangement which is connected to the drive member at the
output point, and which is connected directly or indirectly to the
resistance assembly, said drive arrangement increasing the force
generated by the resistance assembly and presented to the drive
member.
27. The exercise machine according to claim 26, wherein the
resistance assembly includes a flywheel and the input point is
movable along a circular path, the drive arrangement being such
that the ratio of the rotational speed of the flywheel to the
rotational speed of the drive member around the input point is
greater than 20.
28. The exercise machine according to claim 1, further comprising a
unidirectional drive device for transferring force from the input
point to the resistance assembly.
29. The exercise machine according to claim 1, wherein the
resistance assembly includes a flywheel and a brake which acts on
the flywheel and is adjustable to exert an adjustable braking force
restraining rotational movement of the flywheel.
30. In combination, first and second exercise machines, each
exercise machine being according to claim 1, the exercise machines
being positioned so that the support structure of the first
exercise machine is spaced from and opposes the support structure
of the second exercise machine, with the handle of the first
exercise machine being at a selected angular position relatively to
the handle of the second exercise machine.
31. The combination of claim 30, wherein the resistance assembly of
the first exercise machine comprises the resistance assembly of the
second exercise machine.
32. The combination of claim 30, wherein the handles are at the
same angular orientation and are connected directly to each
other.
33. The combination of claim 30, wherein the handles are spaced
from each other and form a gap between them which accommodates a
user who can grip one handle with one hand and the other handle
with the other hand.
34. An exercise machine comprising: a base for providing a platform
for a user during use; a support structure extending upwardly from
the base; a drive member having an input point and an output point
and being connected to the support structure; a resistance assembly
connected to the output point; and a handle connected to the input
point, wherein a user on the platform can grip the handle with two
hands and rotate the handle about the output point against a
resistance force which is generated by the resistance assembly.
35. The exercise machine according to claim 34, wherein the drive
member has a length that is adjustable to vary a distance between
the input point and the output point, the drive member being
rotatable about an axis which passes through the output point, the
resistance assembly having a flywheel which is rotatable by
rotational movement of the drive member.
36. The exercise machine according to claim 35, further comprising
a brake for acting on the flywheel and is adjustable to exert an
adjustable braking force for restraining rotational movement of the
flywheel.
37. The exercise machine according to claim 35, further comprising
a unidirectional drive device for transferring force from the input
point to the resistance assembly.
38. The exercise machine according to claim 35, wherein the support
structure includes upwardly extending supports pivotally movable
relatively to each other, and the base includes a plurality of
panels which are connected to lower ends of the supports.
39. The exercise machine according to claim 38, wherein the
resistance assembly is mounted to at least one of the supports.
40. The exercise machine according to claim 35, further comprising
a drive arrangement between the output point and the flywheel to
increase the rotational speed of the flywheel relatively to the
rotational speed of the drive member.
41. An exercise machine comprising: a support structure; a
resistance assembly connected to the support structure; a drive
member having an output point from which force is applied to the
resistance assembly and an input point spaced from the output
point; and at least one user engaged handle for acting on the drive
member at the input point against a resistance force generated by
the resistance assembly, the input point being movable along a path
which forms a closed loop having a highest point which is a
distance X above a ground reference level on which the user stands
and a lowest point which is a distance Y above the ground reference
level and wherein X.gtoreq.2Y.
42. An exercise machine comprising: a support structure; a
resistance assembly connected to the support structure for
generating a resistance force; a drive member having an output
point from which force is applied to the resistance assembly and an
input point spaced from the output point; and a user engaged
movable handle acting on the drive member at the input point,
wherein the user's arms act in unison against the resistance force
which is generated by the resistance assembly.
43. An exercise machine comprising: a support structure; a
resistance assembly connected to the support structure for
generating a resistance force; a drive member having an output
point from which force is applied to the resistance assembly and an
input point spaced from the output point; at least one user engaged
movable handle acting on the drive member at the input point and
against the resistance force; and a base attached to a lower end of
the support structure and which provides a platform upon which the
user stands so that the user's mass stabilises the support
structure during movement of the handle.
44. An exercise machine comprising: a support structure; a
resistance assembly connected to the support structure for
generating a resistance force; a drive member having an output
point from which force is applied to the resistance assembly and an
input point spaced from the output point; and at least one handle
which acting on the drive member at the input point and which a
user can engage and move against the resistance force generated by
the resistance assembly, the input point being movable along a path
which lies in a substantially vertical plane, the handle being
positioned so that it can be engaged by a user in at least one of
the following positions: a position in which the user is adjacent
the path and generally faces the vertical plane, and a position in
which the user is adjacent the path and generally faces in a
direction which is substantially parallel to the plane.
45. A handle arrangement for inputting force to an exercise machine
comprising; a cross piece; a pivotally movable joint located on a
centre line through the cross piece; and first and second hand
grips on or connected to the cross bar on opposed sides of the
centre line.
46. The handle according to claim 45, further comprising a
connector positioned on the centre line for allowing at least the
cross piece to be rotated about the centre line.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] This invention relates to exercise machines, and in
particular to an exercise machine that provides continuous load
exerting resistance for the user.
[0003] 2. Prior Art
[0004] Exercise machines that utilize bicycle like motion for hands
and feet are well known in the art. Such machines suffer the
drawback that the action is pedal-like in that one arm pushes while
the other pulls and vice versa. This action does not provide
continuous resistance for each of the pushing and pulling actions,
and as such results in an undesirable exercise regiment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The invention provides an exercise machine which includes a
support structure, a resistance assembly which is connected to the
support structure, a drive member with an output point from which
force is applied to the resistance assembly and an input point
which is spaced from the output point by a distance L, and at least
one handle which acts on the drive member at the input point and
which a user can engage and move in a continuous, load-exerting
manner, against a resistance force which is generated by the
resistance assembly.
[0006] "Continuous, load-exerting" means that the movement of the
handle is such that at all times the user is capable of exerting
force on the handle to move the drive member against the resistance
force. This is to be contrasted with a bicycle-type movement which
is encountered in a machine of the type which has support structure
with outwardly extending cranked handles on opposed sides of the
structure which are moved in alternating or reciprocating movement
by a user. With this type of machine the design is such that the
user alternately pushes with one arm while pulling with the other
arm, and vice versa.
[0007] The machine may have one handle with which one hand of user
is engageable. Alternatively the handle may be such that two hands
of the user are engageable therewith. In another variation the
machine has two handles with which two hands of the user are
respectively engageable.
[0008] In a preferred form of the invention the user's arms act in
unison on the handle or handles, against the resistance force.
[0009] The expression "acting in unison" is intended to include a
movement of the user's arms, whereby the user's arms move
substantially in the same way and at the same time as each other.
Thus both arms act against the resistance force at the same time.
This is to be contrasted with the type of movement, encountered for
example on the bicycle-type machine referred to, in which the
user's arms move with a pedal-type motion in alternating fashion
with one arm pulling and the other arm pushing, and vice versa.
[0010] The input point, when moved by the handle, may move along a
path which may form a closed loop of any appropriate shape or which
may be variable dynamically ie. as the user works on the handle. It
is preferred however that the path of movement is defined and forms
a closed loop of circular shape.
[0011] The path of movement of the input point preferably lies in a
substantially vertical plane. It is possible though for the path of
movement to lie in a substantially horizontally plane, or in an
inclined plane, or for the path of movement to be non-planar. For
example, if the input point moves laterally relative to the support
structure, which may be upwardly extending, then the path of
movement, even if it forms a closed loop may not lie in a plane but
could follow a convoluted three-dimension path.
[0012] As indicated though it is preferred for the path of movement
to lie in a vertical plane for this allows the user to stand on one
side of, and adjacent, the plane, away from the support structure.
This feature makes it possible for the user to move fully and
freely, and obtain maximum benefit from the machine for many parts
of the body.
[0013] To enable the user's arms to act in unison on the handle,
the exercise machine must be dimensioned and structured so that no
part thereof interferes with the body of the user. To achieve this
objective the support structure preferably extends upwardly and the
handle is on one side of the support structure only.
[0014] The support structure may include a base which is attachable
to the floor to stabilise the exercise machine during use
thereof.
[0015] In an alternative arrangement, the support structure
includes formations whereby the support structure is attachable to
a wall to stabilise the exercise machine during use thereof.
[0016] In a preferred embodiment however the exercise machine
includes a base which is attached to a lower end of the support
structure and which provides a platform upon which the user stands
so that the user's mass stabilises the exercise machine during use
thereof.
[0017] The length of the drive member between the input point and
the output point may be adjustable to vary the distance L. The
drive member may be adjustable against a biasing element such as a
piston and cylinder arrangement, a spring, an elastic member such
as a rubber band or the like, a worm-type device, and so on. The
use of a biasing element which may, itself, be adjustable to
provide a variable biasing force, enables the input point to move
along a path of variable shape. It is possible to make use of
control means, eg. an automatically controlled actuator or motor to
adjust the length of the drive member, to provide a controlled
variation in operating characteristics of the machine.
[0018] On the other hand the drive member may be adjustable
according to requirement to set the distance L at a defined length.
A releasable fastener, which acts on the drive member once it has
been adjusted, may be used to prevent the distance L from varying
during use of the exercise machine.
[0019] The drive member may be rotatable by the handle about the
output point.
[0020] The handle may take on a plurality of different forms. In
one example of the invention the handle includes grips for the
user's hands, the grips being positioned so that the hands, when
engaged with the grips, extend around a common axis which is
transverse to the path of movement of the input point. With this
form of the invention the grips are preferably positioned side by
side and the handle may, for example, comprise an elongate shaft of
sufficient length to ensure that portions of the shaft which are
adjacent each other define grips for the user's hands.
[0021] The shaft, which defines the handle, may extend from the
drive member at the input point and may be rotatable about an axis
which is centered on the input point. It is also possible though,
alternatively or in addition, to provide rotatable grips on the
shaft so that the grips rotate about the shaft during movement of
the drive member by a user.
[0022] In a different form of the invention, the handle includes
grips for the user's hands which are positioned on respective
opposed sides of an input axis which is transverse to the path of
movement of the input point and which extends through the input
point. This arrangement allows the user to face a plane in which
the input point is moved during use of the exercise machine ie. in
which the closed loop lies. With this arrangement the user
effectively turns through 90.degree. compared to the position which
the user occupies with the first mentioned handle arrangement.
[0023] With the latter handle arrangement the user's arms are again
used in unison but with a circular type motion which is transverse
to, and in front of, the user's body during use of the exercise
machine.
[0024] Different handles may be provided for a single machine and a
user may select a handle type, as required, for different types of
exercises.
[0025] The handles may allow for the orientation of the grips,
relative to the input axis, to be varied in use. This feature
reduces the strain which could otherwise be placed on a user's
hands and arms during use ie. while causing the input point to
rotate, along a path of movement, about the output point. For
example, the handle, or the grips, may be connected to the input
point through a universal joint, a ball joint, a spring or rubber
connector, or any similar device which allows relative pivotal
movement between the grips and the input point, but which still
allows a drive force to be applied from the grips to the input
point.
[0026] The path may have a highest point which is a distance X
above a ground reference level on which the user stands and a
lowest point which is a distance Y above the ground reference level
and wherein X .gtoreq.2Y. By adjusting the distance it is possible
to make X substantially greater than 2Y.
[0027] By adjusting the ratio of X to Y, the degree to which a user
must bend and extend upwardly when moving the handle so that the
input point moves along the path, can be significantly varied.
[0028] The support structure, as indicated, can take on a plurality
of different forms. However to enable the support structure to be
provided in a manner which can be put into a compact mode for
storage and transport purposes, it is preferable for the support
structure to have at least two upwardly extending inclined supports
with the resistance assembly being mounted to the supports,
preferably to upper ends thereof.
[0029] Use may be made of a base which interconnects lower ends of
the supports and which forms a platform upon which the user
stands.
[0030] The supports may be pivotally movable towards each other for
storage and transport purposes, and away from each other to place
the machine in an operative mode. The base may include a plurality
of pivotally interconnected panels which are moved in a
corresponding way in unison with the supports.
[0031] The output point may be near the upper ends of the supports
and the resistance assembly may include a flywheel which is
rotatable about an axis which extends through the output point.
Alternatively the exercise machine may include a drive arrangement
which is connected to the output point and which transfers motion
to the flywheel. The drive arrangement may include a gearbox or
gear train, a system of belts and pulleys, or any similar drive
transferring system which causes the rotational speed of the
flywheel to be related in a desired ratio to the rotational speed
of the output point. This increases the force which is generated by
the resistance assembly and against which the user acts.
[0032] In a preferred example of the invention, the path of
movement of the input point is a circle and the drive arrangement
is such that the ratio of the rotational speed of the flywheel to
the rotational speed of the output point is greater than 20. It has
been found through experimentation and trial and error that this
ratio and higher values, eg 25, are particularly effective in that
these ratios enable the flywheel to have a relatively small mass
(e.g., of the order of 5 kg (12.5 lbs)), while still providing
sufficient resistance force to a user who can cause the input point
to move at a comfortable speed along the defined path. It is
evident that the ratio of the rotational speed of the output point
to the rotational speed of the flywheel, as given by the
aforementioned ratio, and the mechanical advantage obtainable,
inter alia, by the distance L, help to determine the resistance
force which is developed and presented to the drive member. There
is a compromise between the momentum developed by the flywheel
which helps to give a smooth movement to the handle, reducing the
effect of "dead spots", a feature (ie. smooth movement) which
generally is more pronounced as the mass of the flywheel increases,
and the size and mass of the exercise machine as a whole.
[0033] The resistance force may be varied by making use of a brake
which acts on the flywheel and which is adjustable thereby to exert
an adjustable braking force which restrains rotational movement of
the flywheel.
[0034] The brake may be in the nature of a belt brake, a friction
brake, an electromagnetic brake, a magnetic brake, or any
equivalent component. The invention is not limited in this regard.
The brake may be controlled automatically, eg. by means of suitable
control electronics, to vary the braking force to suit the user,
for example in a dynamic fashion. It then becomes possible to vary
the path of movement of the input point and the resistance force in
a controlled manner.
[0035] If drive is to be imparted by the handle to the resistance
assembly, and not in the reverse direction, the exercise machine
may include a unidirectional drive device between the handle and
the resistance assembly. The drive device may be switchable or
operable to change the direction (in a rotational sense) in which
drive is imparted to the resistance assembly by the handle.
[0036] The unidirectional drive device may be in the nature of a
ratchet device but any equivalent arrangement can be used. The
invention is not limited in this regard.
[0037] A smooth, sweeping-type action can however be obtained if
the handle is permanently connected to the flywheel, ie. if no
uni-directional device is used, for the flywheel's momentum drives
the handle through dead spots which could occur at extremities of
the path of movement, and a continuous input of force is required
of the user via the handle. It is imperative though for the
resistance force, the mass of the flywheel, the radius of movement
of the handle and the relationship between the rotational speed of
the handle and the rotational speed of the flywheel to be carefully
inter-related to ensure that the handle can be moved at a steady
speed, which is not too fast to unbalance a user, against a
resistance force of sufficient magnitude to provide a safe and
effective workout.
[0038] In a preferred form of the invention, the exercise machine
includes a base which, in use, provides a platform for a user, a
support structure which extends upwardly from the base, a drive
member which has an input point and an output point and which is
connected to the support structure, a resistance assembly which is
connected to the output point, and a handle connected to the input
point whereby a user, on the platform, can grip the handle with two
hands and rotate the handle about the output point against a
resistance force which is generated by the resistance assembly.
[0039] The drive member may be of adjustable effective length to
vary the distance between the input point and the output point, the
drive member being rotatable about an axis which passes through the
output point, and the resistance assembly may include a flywheel
which is rotatable by rotational movement of the drive member. A
drive arrangement may be connected between the output point and the
flywheel to transfer drive to the flywheel at a suitable mechanical
ratio.
[0040] The support structure may include upwardly extending
supports which are pivotally movable relative to each other and the
base may include a plurality of panels which are connected to lower
ends of the supports. The resistance assembly may be attached to at
least one of the supports and the base may be positioned on a side
of the supports so that a user, on the base, is alongside the
support structure and does not "straddle" the support structure, as
is the case with the bicycle-type arm exercise machine previously
referred to.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0041] The invention is further described by way of examples with
reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
[0042] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exercise machine according to
one form of the invention;
[0043] FIG. 2 shows the use, in different combinations, of two
machines each of which is substantially the same as what is shown
in FIG. 1;
[0044] FIGS. 3, 4, 5 and 6 are respectively a side view, an end
view, a plan view and a view in perspective, of an exercise machine
according to another form of the invention;
[0045] FIGS. 7 to 10 respectively correspond to FIGS. 3 to 6 and
show the machine of FIGS. 3 to 6 in a collapsed or storage
mode;
[0046] FIG. 11 shows another exercise machine according to the
invention;
[0047] FIGS. 12 to 16 illustrate different methods of adjusting a
rotational path which a user's hands follow when using the exercise
machine of the invention;
[0048] FIGS. 17 to 23 show different handles which can be used with
the machine of the invention;
[0049] FIGS. 24 and 25 illustrate two of the handles in use;
[0050] FIGS. 26 and 27 show a machine according to the invention
fixed to a floor and a wall respectively;
[0051] FIGS. 28 to 30 illustrate different arrangements of the
exercise machine of the invention; and
[0052] FIG. 31 shows the use in combination, from one end, of two
machines each of the kind shown in FIGS. 3 to 6.
DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0053] FIG. 1 of the accompanying drawings illustrates an exercise
machine 10 according to a first form of the invention.
[0054] The machine 10 includes a base plate 12 which is mounted to
an upwardly extending support column 14 which has a drive shaft 18
mounted, near opposed ends, to bearings 20 and 22 respectively. A
relatively large drive pulley 24 is fixed to the drive shaft
slightly above the bearing 20.
[0055] A bevel gear 26 is fixed to an upper end of the drive
shaft.
[0056] A cranked member 28 which includes a stub axle 30, a lever
32 and a handle 34, is fixed to an upper end of the support column
14. The stub axle extends horizontally, is mounted to bearings 36
and 38, and is centred on an axis A which defines an output point
to components which form a drive arrangement in the machine. A
bevel gear 40, which mates with the gear 26, is fixed to the axle.
At a position between the bevel gear 40 and the bearing 38 an
optional one-way drive mechanism in the nature of a ratchet 42 is
installed. The arrangement is such that rotational drive can be
transferred from the lever 32 to the gear 40, in one direction, but
drive cannot be transferred from the gear 40 to the lever 32.
[0057] The mechanism, if used, can be switched to change the
direction in which drive is transferred between the lever and the
gear.
[0058] The handle 34 may be movable along the length of the lever
32 or the lever 32 can be adjusted relatively to the stub axle 30,
so that the position of the handle 34 can be adjusted relatively to
the axle to a selected position shown in dotted lines 34X.
[0059] A thrust bearing 50 is mounted to the base plate. An axle 52
extends upwardly from the thrust bearing and a flywheel 54 is
mounted to the axle. At its upper end the axle 52 is supported by
means of a bearing 56.
[0060] A pulley 58 is mounted to the axle above the upper surface
of the flywheel and below the bearing 56. A belt 62 couples the
drive pulley 24 to the pulley 58.
[0061] A brake 66 is engaged with the flywheel 54. The brake is
adjustable to constrain rotational movement of the flywheel 54
about the axle 56 to a greater or lesser extent. In this example
the brake is a magnetic device of a kind which is known in the art.
Any other type of brake could be employed, for example a belt which
is engaged with the flywheel, a friction roller which bears on a
rim of the flywheel, an electromagnetic brake, or the like. The
invention is not limited in this regard.
[0062] A cover 70 overlies the flywheel and the pulley 24 and
provides a platform upon which a user, not shown, can stand while
using the exercise machine. In use of the machine the user's weight
provides a ballast, or stabilising effect, which helps to keep the
machine steady.
[0063] The exercise machine 10 can be used in different ways. In
one form of use the handle 34, which forms an input point to the
machine, is sufficiently lengthy so that a user, who stands on the
cover, can grip the handle 34 with both hands, one adjacent the
other. The height of the axle 30 above the platform 70 and the
length of the lever 32 (between the handle and the stub-axle) are
such that, as the user rotates the lever about the axle 30, the
user must, at some stage, bend at the knees and, subsequently, move
the arms from a lower position to an upper position. As the lever
32 is rotated, rotational drive is transferred to the drive shaft
18 and drive is imparted by the drive pulley 20 and the belt 62 to
the driven pulley 58. The flywheel is thereby caused to rotate
against a braking effect exerted by the magnetic brake 66. The
brake can be adjusted to provide more or less resistance, according
to requirement, to the rotational movement of the flywheel. The
ratios of the various gears and pulleys in the drive arrangement
from the axle 30 to the flywheel 54 determine the mechanical
advantage between the handle and the flywheel, a factor which helps
to set the resistance force which is developed.
[0064] The exercise machine causes the user to exercise at least
his legs, his arms and his upper torso while rotating the
handle.
[0065] In a variation of the invention, the user, standing on the
platform 70, grips the handle 34 with both hands while facing the
column 14 as opposed to facing in a direction which is at a right
angle to the stub axle 30, as is the case in the former mode of
use. The user rotates the handle 34 using both hands, which move in
unison, with a squatting and lifting type of body action.
[0066] In each mode of use the path of movement of the input point,
formed by the handle 34, is a closed loop of circular shape which
lies in a vertical plane, and the user is either positioned
adjacent the plane, facing in a direction which is generally
parallel to the plane, or is positioned facing the plane,
orientations which do not arise when use is made of a bicycle-type
machine.
[0067] FIG. 2 illustrates an exercise machine 80 which includes, in
combination, a first machine 10 of the kind described in connection
with FIG. 1 and a second machine 10A which is fundamentally the
same as the machine 10 and which is erected on a support column 16.
Components of the machine 10A which are the same as components of
the machine 10 are not described in detail and bear like reference
numerals with the suffix "A".
[0068] Although the machine 10A could have a separate flywheel, in
this example only one flywheel is used and the output drive of the
machine 10A is connected to the flywheel 54 by means of a pulley 60
which is mounted to the axle 52 below the bearing 56, and a belt
62A which couples the drive pulley 24A to the pulley 60.
[0069] The handle 34 can be coupled directly to the handle 34A
using a connector 82 which is shown in dotted outline. This means
that the members 28 and 28A are movable in unison.
[0070] If the handles 34 and 34A are not directly connected the
angular separation between the handles can be varied to any
appropriate extent between 0.degree. and 180.degree.. FIG. 2 shows
(in dotted lines for the handle 34A) the handles separated by about
180.degree. with a gap 84 between the handles which is occupied by
a user. Again the path of movement of each input point (defined by
each handle) is parallel to the direction in which the user
faces.
[0071] FIGS. 3 to 6 illustrate an exercise machine 90 according to
another form of the invention from the side, from the end, in plan,
and in perspective, respectively.
[0072] The machine includes support structure 92 in the form of two
elongate, inclined, upwardly extending supports 94 and 96
respectively which are pivotally connected to each other at upper
ends 98, directly or by means of intermediate structure such as a
flywheel housing 99, in a way which allows the supports, within
reason, to be pivotally moved towards, and apart, from each
other.
[0073] The machine includes a base 100 which rests on the ground
and which, in use, provides a platform, upon which a user, not
shown, can stand while using the machine. In this example the base
100 includes three panels 102, 104 and 106 respectively which are
pivotally connected to one another at points 108A and 108B in a
planar array. The base is fixed to lower ends of, and braces, the
supports 94 and 96.
[0074] A compact flywheel 110, within the housing 99, is mounted to
the support structure near the upper ends of the supports 98. The
flywheel is driven by a small drive mechanism 111 which is directly
fixed to an axle 112 and ends of the axle are accommodated in
bearings 113 secured to the upper ends of the supports 94 and 96.
The flywheel is relatively compact and weighs approximately 5 kg.
It has been found through trial and experiment that a flywheel of
this type is adequate for the purposes of the invention in that it
is capable of providing sufficient resistance and a required degree
of momentum, when used in the manner described hereinafter, but at
the same is not unduly heavy or massive, a feature which enables
the flywheel to be mounted to the upper ends of the supports.
[0075] A brake 114 is used to provide a controlled restraining
force which impedes free movement of the flywheel. The brake 114
may be of any appropriate kind eg. a magnetic or an electromagnetic
brake which is known in the art and, for this reason, the brake is
not further described herein. By adjusting the brake in one
direction a greater restraining force is exerted on the flywheel to
impede free movement of the flywheel while, by adjusting the brake
in an opposing direction, the restraining force which impedes
movement of the flywheel is lessened.
[0076] The axle 112 defines an output point or output axis 116 for
a drive member 120 which is fixed to a protruding end of the
axle.
[0077] The drive member 120 includes a hollow section 122, of
rectangular dimensions, which is fixed to a protruding end of the
axle 112 which extends towards the base 100, and an elongate member
124 of rectangular cross section which is complementary to the
internal shape of the hollow section 122, and which is slidably
located inside the hollow section.
[0078] The member 124 is formed with a number of holes 126 at
spaced locations along one side and a fastener 128, fixed to the
hollow section 122, can be engaged with a selected hole thereby to
vary the effective length L of the drive member 120.
[0079] A handle 130 is fixed to an outer end of the member 124,
which end is also referred as an input point 132 of the drive
member 120, and the handle extends transversely to the member 124
so that it overlies a part of the base 100.
[0080] The arrangement and orientation of the components of the
exercise machine relatively to the base are such that a user can
stand on the base 100 and is able to grip the handle 130 with both
hands with each hand curving around a grip portion of the handle
ie. about an axis which is substantially at a right angle to the
direction in which the member 124 extends.
[0081] The user can rotate the handle about the axis on which the
axle 112 lies. In the process and during the rotation, depending on
the effective length of the drive member 120, the user is compelled
to a greater or lesser extent to bend at the knees and then to
straighten the legs and reach upwardly with his arms in order to
complete the rotational movement of the handle 130 about the axis
on which the axle 112 lies.
[0082] The handle 130 is aligned with what is referred to herein as
an input point 132 to the drive member 120. The input point is the
point at which a user inputs force or effort into the exercise
machine and it is rotated through a closed circular path which lies
in a substantially vertically plane. In the described mode of use
the user stands adjacent the closed path and generally faces in a
direction which is parallel to the plane of rotation. The drive
arrangement has an output point 116, aligned with the axle 112, at
which the force generated by the user is transferred to the
flywheel. The flywheel is rotatable against a resistance force
generated by its inertia, frictional forces and the like. The
primary resistance to movement, however, is generated by the brake
114 which, as noted, is adjustable.
[0083] During use of the machine, the mass of the user, who stands
on the base 100, acts to stabilise the exercise machine. This is an
important factor for substantial forces can be generated on the
machine during use thereof, particularly if the handle is rotated
vigorously.
[0084] The machine can also be used in a way which has been
described in connection with FIG. 1 in that a user can stand facing
the flywheel and the plane in which the input point is rotated,
looking basically in the longitudinal direction of the axle 112,
grip the handle 130 with both hands and rotate the handle using a
swaying or swinging type motion with a corresponding leg-bending
and leg-straightening action, the extent of which is determined by
the height of the output point above the platform and the length of
the lever between the input point and the output point.
[0085] FIG. 3 illustrates a defined path 140, shown in dotted
outline, along which the input point 132 moves during use of the
machine. In this instance the path is circular for the drive member
120 is of a fixed length (L) during the use of the machine. This is
not essential for, as is described hereinafter, the path may have a
shape which can be varied automatically, or dynamically in response
to the exercise action of the user.
[0086] To enable maximum benefit to be derived from the machine,
the length of the drive member 120 should be sufficiently great to
ensure that the user must bend at the knees and then straighten the
legs and raise the arms while rotating the member 120. This type of
action cannot be achieved with a "bicycle-type" exercise machine in
which the user alternately exerts force on a resistance device with
a left arm and a right arm. With this type of machine a support
structure is normally positioned between two cranks which are
respectively gripped by the user with the left hand and the right
hand in a manner which causes the user's body to come close to the
support structure. Clearly there is an inherent limitation to the
maximum length of each crank. With the exercise machine of the
invention, however, by displacing the drive arrangement to one side
of the support structure, it is possible to increase the length of
the drive to allow for at least two compound exercise movements
each of which results in the user exercising the arms, the torso,
the waist and the legs, in an aerobic manner, simultaneously.
[0087] The bicycle-type machine referred to does not include a
support structure which is capable of handling a "one-sided" input
of force by a user for the stability of this type of machine relies
on the user being centrally positioned between the cranks so that
one arm can push while the other arm pulls, and vice versa. With
the machine of the invention however, the user's mass constitutes a
ballast which, coupled to the cantilever-type arrangement of the
base and the support structure, permits the user to stand adjacent
the machine and exert force with both arms acting in unison and in
the same direction.
[0088] FIG. 3 shows that the defined path 140 has a maximum height
X above a platform formed by the base 100 and a minimum height Y at
a lowermost portion of the stroke of the handle, above the
platform. The output point is a distance D above the platform and
X=D+L and Y=D-L. A particularly advantageous form of the invention
is realised if the ratio of X to Y is .gtoreq.2. Again it is
pointed out, taking into account the height D of the output point
above the platform, which typically is of the order of 1400 mm (55
inches), that this degree of relative movement is not achievable
using a bicycle-type arm exercise machine of a kind which is known
in the art.
[0089] FIGS. 7 to 10 correspond respectively to FIGS. 3 to 6 and
illustrate the exercise machine 90 as it is folded into a compact
mode for storage or transport purposes. The supports 94 and 96 are
pivoted towards each other and the panels 102, 104 and 106 hinge
relatively to each other, about the respective pivot points 108, to
provide a compact construction. The member 124 and the handle 130
can be detached, if required, from the hollow section 122 to
facilitate storage. This allows different handles, eg. of the kind
described hereinafter, to be used with the machine.
[0090] The gear drive mechanism 111 is shown schematically, in
dotted outline, and is such that the rotational speed of the
flywheel is at least 20 times the rotational speed of the axle at
the output point. Thus the handle 130 rotates at a speed which is
substantially less than the rotational speed of the flywheel. On
the other hand movement of the flywheel is constrained, as
indicated, by the brake 114. The mechanical advantage which results
from this type of arrangement enables the size of the flywheel to
be reduced substantially typically, as indicated, to a mass of the
order of 5kg or even lower. The mechanism 111 could include an
appropriate gearbox, a belt drive or any other suitable
arrangement.
[0091] FIG. 11 shows a machine 90A which is similar to the machine
90 and for this reason is not described in detail. Also like
reference numerals are used to designate like components. A belt
and pulley drive arrangement 111A, of a kind similar to that
described hereinafter, is used to rotate the flywheel 110. The base
100A include three slotted panels 102A, 104A and 106A respectively
which are fixed to laterally extending supports 107 and 109
respectively at lower ends of the inclined supports 94A and 96A.
The panels can be moved to the planar orientation shown in FIG. 11,
and to a folded arrangement similar to what is shown in FIG. 9, but
the pivot points 108A and 108B cannot be moved downwardly below the
FIG. 11 position, due to interlocking formations at abutting ends
of the panels, a feature which helps to stabilise the machine in
use.
[0092] FIG. 12 shows a drive member 120A which includes an elongate
member 124A formed from two telescopically engaged parts 124X and
124Y respectively. The parts are joined by a spring 160 which is
positioned inside the part 124X. In this example the axle 112 is
mounted to a pulley 162 and drive is transferred to a resistance
assembly, not shown, by means of a belt 164 which is engaged with
the pulley. The spring tends to pull the member 124Y into the
member 124X and thereby decrease the radius of a path along which
the input point 132 is moved. As the rotational speed of the
handles increases, however, the radius of the defined path of
movement increases in a dynamic fashion influenced, inter alia, by
the vigour and force with which the user exercises.
[0093] FIG. 13 illustrates a drive member 120B which is similar to
that shown in FIG. 11 except that the spring 160 is replaced by an
elastic band 160A.
[0094] FIG. 14 shows a drive member 120C wherein a piston and
cylinder assembly 160B replaces the spring 160. This assembly is
double-acting in that forces are generated which tend to restrict
movement of the piston into, and out of, the cylinder.
[0095] Another possibility is to use an elongate screw and nut
arrangement, in the nature of a worm drive, to vary the length of
the member. This can be done dynamically, or even automatically if
use is made of a small electric motor to move the nut along the
screw.
[0096] Clearly, with the arrangements shown in FIGS. 12 to 14, the
force which is needed to rotate a flywheel can be varied
dynamically, during use of the machine, without the need to stop
and adjust the length of the drive member 120. In each case the
input point moves along a path, which is dynamically variable, and
forms a closed loop of variable shape which lies in a vertical
plane.
[0097] FIG. 15 shows an arrangement, for setting the drive member
120 at a fixed length, which is similar to what has been described
in connection with FIGS. 3 to 4 in that a member 124 is movable
into, or out of, a hollow section 122 which is mounted to an axle
112. At a chosen length the members 122 and 124 are fixed to one
another by engaging a pin on a fastener 128 with a corresponding
hole 126 in the member 124.
[0098] The axle 112 is mounted to a pulley 162 which imparts
rotational drive to the resistance assembly, not shown, by means of
a belt 164.
[0099] FIG. 16 shows a mechanical equivalent to the arrangement of
FIG. 15 which provides for continuous, as opposed to stepwise,
adjustment of the distance L, i.e., the distance between the input
point 132 and the output point 116. A screw 166 includes a shank
168 which extends through a slot 170 in a hollow section 122. The
shank is threadedly engaged with a complementary hole in the member
124. The screw can be tightened when the member 124 is at a
selected position relatively to the hollow section 122 in order to
fix these components together.
[0100] FIGS. 17 to 19 illustrate different handle arrangements for
use with the machine of the invention. In FIG. 17 a handle 130, in
the form of an elongate shaft, is fixed to the member 124. The
handle has at least two grip portions 176 and 178, alongside one
another, which enable a user to grip the handle with both hands,
adjacent each other, with each hand curled around an axis 180 on
which the shaft lies and which extends through the input point 132
which, upon being moved, forms the defined path or closed loop 140.
The axis 180 is substantially at a right angle to a plane in which
the path 140 lies.
[0101] FIG. 18 illustrates an arrangement wherein a handle portion
130A is mounted via a flexible joint 182, in the nature of a
universal joint, to a handle portion 130B which is immovably fixed
to the elongate member 124. Clearly the handle portion 130A is
movable, to a greater or lesser extent, relative to the fixed
handle portion 130B during use of the exercise machine. The handle
portion 130A can provide sufficient space for two grip portions 176
and 178 for the two hands of a user. It is possible to remove the
handle portion 130B and connect the joint 182 directly to the
member 124 as is indicated in dotted lines 124A.
[0102] FIG. 19 illustrates a handle 130C which is also of compound
construction. The handle 130C includes a fixed handle portion 130B
which extends from the elongate member 124. A second handle portion
130D is connected to the handle portion 130B. The handle portion
130D includes a transverse component 130F which is fixed, by means
of a bearing 184, to a short stub 130G which, in turn, is fixed to
the handle portion 130B either immovably or by means of a universal
connector 182 which allows pivotal movement of the component 130F,
to a limited extent, relative to the portion 130B. The bearing
allows the component 130F to rotate about the axis 180 which passes
through the input point 138.
[0103] The handle arrangement shown in FIG. 19 is intended to be
used by a person who stands on the platform 100 looking generally
in a direction which is substantially parallel to the axis 180. The
component 130F has two grips 186 and 188 respectively for the left
and right hands of the user. The user can impart rotational drive
to the member 124 but with the user facing the plane in which the
defined path 140 lies. Again it is required of the user to bend and
straighten the legs to a greater or lesser extent depending on the
effective radius or length of the member 124. However the type of
movement required of the user's body differs substantially from the
movement required when a handle arrangement of the type shown in
FIG. 17 is used. With the FIG. 19 arrangement, although the arms
are again moved in unison, it is necessary for the user to sway the
upper portion of the body to and fro and to reach upwards and
downwards as the handle rotates.
[0104] FIG. 20 shows a handle 130J in the form of a Z with grips
176A and 178A, which are parallel to each other and which are
joined by a cross piece in the form of a bar 130K. A shaft 130L
which is detachably and rotatably mounted to an input point (not
shown) is coupled to a centre-point of the cross bar 130K by a
universal joint 182A which allows the handle 130J to move with a
pivotal action relatively to the shaft in a way which helps to
reduce strain or stress on the user's arms and hands during use of
the machine.
[0105] FIG. 21 shows that the handle 130J can be coupled to the
shaft 130L by means of strong coil spring 182B which is located on
a centre line through the cross bar and which offers a degree of
flexibility which is similar to that provided by the universal
joint 182A.
[0106] FIG. 22 shows the handle 130J connected to the shaft by a
flexible and strong rubber bush 182C which permits flexibility of
the handle in all directions relatively to the shaft.
[0107] FIG. 23 shows a handle 130M with aligned side-by-side grips
176B and 178B detachably fixed to a drive member 120B by means of
snap-fit fastener 179. The grips are rotatable around a bearing
housing 181.
[0108] As stated the machine can be designed so that it can be used
with any of these handles (or other suitable handles) and, in each
case the particular handle which is used creates different exercise
characteristics.
[0109] FIG. 24 shows an exercise machine wherein a drive member
120K is formed from articulated components 122K and 124K
respectively connected to an output point 116 by joints 182A and
182B of the kind described in connection with FIG. 18. The
effective length L of the drive member is dynamically adjustable,
by the user, during use of the machine. The articulated connection
allows the user to change his stance, on the platform 100, by
moving his feet during use of the machine.
[0110] FIG. 25 shows a machine which uses articulated joints 182C
and 182D between a handle 130D of the type shown in FIG. 19 and a
telescopic member 120F of the type shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, to
provide a drive, which is dynamically adjustable in length, to the
output point 116.
[0111] A preferred form of the invention is one wherein the base
100, as shown in FIG. 3, forms a platform upon which a user stands
whilst using the machine. The user's mass then provides sufficient
stabilisation to ensure that the machine is stable during use. It
is however not essential to use this type of construction and, in a
more permanent arrangement, the support structure 92 can include a
small pedestal 190 which can be fixed to the floor 194, as is shown
in FIG. 26. FIG. 27 shows that the support structure 92 can include
formations 196 eg. in the form of a spreader plate or connecting
bar whereby the exercise machine can be attached, using suitable
fasteners, to a wall 198.
[0112] Clearly with the arrangements shown in FIGS. 26 and 27 it is
not possible for the machine to be dismantled with ease for storage
or transport purposes.
[0113] It is also to be noted, referring to FIGS. 24 to 27, that a
"step-up" drive system can be employed for increasing the
rotational speed of the axle 112 which forms the output point of
the drive arrangement 120. Referring for example to FIG. 27 the
axle 112 is mounted to a pulley 162 which transfers drive via a
belt 164 to a relatively smaller pulley 162A. The smaller pulley
drives a larger pulley 162B which is connected to another smaller
pulley 162C by means of a second belt 164A. A flywheel 110 which
includes a brake 114 is fixed to the support structure 92 and is
driven by an output shaft from the pulley 164C.
[0114] FIG. 28 illustrates from the side an arrangement which is
similar to what has been described in connection with FIG. 27
except that the support structure 92 extends upwardly from a base
100 which rests on the ground and is not fixed to the wall.
[0115] As used herein the word "axle" or "axis" is intended to
include an actual axle and axis, as the case may be, and also a
virtual axle or axis. The phrase "virtual axle or axis" is intended
to cover a situation in which rotational movement takes place about
a point which does not define a physical axle or axis, but merely a
centre of rotation. This type of arrangement is shown in FIGS. 29
and 30 respectively which illustrate an exercise machine similar to
what has been described in connection with FIG. 28, wherein the
support structure 92 supports a circular support frame 200. A wheel
202 is mounted inside the circular support frame and runs on
rollers 204 which are fixed at spaced locations to the wheel. The
rollers in turn ride inside a hollow guide or track, on an inner
surface of the support frame, indicated in dotted outline 206.
[0116] A pulley 162 is fixed to a central point on the wheel 202.
The pulley drives a belt 164 which, in turn, drives a smaller
pulley 162A which is mounted to a larger pulley 164B. The pulley
164B drives a belt 164A which is connected to a smaller pulley 164C
which drives a flywheel 110 to which is fitted a brake 114. It can
be seen that the arrangement in FIGS. 29 and 30 is similar to what
has been described in connection with FIG. 27 except that the wheel
202, riding inside the support frame 200, simulates a fixed axle by
providing a virtual axle 216 which defines the output point of the
drive member 120.
[0117] In this example the drive member includes a plate 220 which
normally is fixed to, and covers, the wheel 202 and which is formed
with a number of holes 222 at spaced intervals extending from the
virtual axis 216. A handle 224 can be engaged with a selected hole
which defines the input point 132. The user can, as before, grip
the handle with both hands and cause it to rotate along a defined
circular path centred on the virtual axis 216 which coincides with
the output point 116. A step-up drive is achieved to the flywheel
which is braked, to a required extent, by the brake 114. In all
other respects the operation of the exercise machine is
substantially the same as what has been described.
[0118] FIG. 31 shows a compound machine which, in many respects, is
similar to that shown in FIG. 2, and which is basically a
combination of two machines 90F and 90G each of which is similar to
the machine 90 in FIG. 3. Each machine has its own flywheel. The
handles 130F and 130G of the machines can be joined by a coupling
bar 230 or they can be displaced to form a gap 232 between the
handles which can accommodate a user. If the handles are not joined
they can be angularly displaced by up to 1800, as shown by dotted
lines for the handle 130G. These features allow for a multitude of
different types of usage.
* * * * *