U.S. patent application number 10/611497 was filed with the patent office on 2004-03-25 for stationary type of exercise apparatus that enables movement of the user's feet in a reciprocating motion.
Invention is credited to Roberts, Robert E. JR..
Application Number | 20040058784 10/611497 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46299539 |
Filed Date | 2004-03-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040058784 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Roberts, Robert E. JR. |
March 25, 2004 |
Stationary type of exercise apparatus that enables movement of the
user's feet in a reciprocating motion
Abstract
An exercise apparatus is provided for enabling reciprocating
motion of the user's legs or feet while the user remains generally
stationary. The apparatus includes a stationary frame, a first
longitudinal rail supported, at least partially, by the frame, and
a second longitudinal rail also supported, at least partially, by
the frame and in generally parallel relation with the first rail.
The apparatus further includes a first foot carriage assembly
movably engageable along the first rail, a second foot carriage
assembly movably engageable along the second rail, and an inertia
drive assembly disposed proximate the first and second rails. The
inertia drive assembly includes a first continuous belt that is
engageable with the first carriage assembly such that movable
operation of the first carriage assembly drives the inertia drive
assembly, and a second continuous belt engageable with the second
carriage assembly such that movable operation of the second
carriage assembly also drives the inertia drive assembly. The first
and second carriage assembly are interconnected such that, as each
of the first and second carriage assembly initially advances
rearwardly or forwardly along one of the rails, the inertia drive
assembly can accelerate each carriage assembly, by way of one of
the first and second belts.
Inventors: |
Roberts, Robert E. JR.;
(Canyon Lake, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
FULBRIGHT & JAWORSKI, LLP
1301 MCKINNEY
SUITE 5100
HOUSTON
TX
77010-3095
US
|
Family ID: |
46299539 |
Appl. No.: |
10/611497 |
Filed: |
July 1, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10611497 |
Jul 1, 2003 |
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09674322 |
Jul 11, 2001 |
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6626802 |
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09674322 |
Jul 11, 2001 |
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PCT/US99/30935 |
Dec 22, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 ;
482/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 23/0417 20130101;
A63B 2022/067 20130101; A63B 22/203 20130101; A63B 22/0007
20130101; A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B 21/225
20130101; A63B 21/00181 20130101; A63B 2022/0038 20130101; A63B
22/0017 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/052 ;
482/057 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/04; A63B
022/06; A63B 069/16 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An exercise apparatus for enabling reciprocating motion of the
user's legs or feet while the user remains generally stationary,
said apparatus comprising: a stationary frame; a first longitudinal
rail supported, at least partially, by said frame; a second
longitudinal rail supported, at least partially, by said frame and
in generally parallel relation with said first rail; a first foot
carriage assembly movably engageable along said first rail and
pivotally fixed to deflect angularly downward from an inactive
position upon application of pressure thereon by a user; a second
foot carriage assembly movably engageable along said second rail
and pivotally fixed to deflect angularly downward from an inactive
position upon application of pressure thereon by a user; an inertia
drive assembly disposed proximate said first and second rails and
drivable upon movable operation of at least one of said first and
second carriage assemblies, said drive assembly including a first
continuous belt rotatably engageable with said first carriage
assembly, said first continuous belt being positioned relative to
said first carriage assembly such that said first continuous belt
deflects downwardly upon engagement with said first carriage
assembly; and a second continuous belt rotatably engageable with
said second carriage assembly said second continuous belt being
positioned relative to said first carriage assembly such that said
second continuous belt deflects downwardly upon engagement with
said second carriage assembly; a first suspension system for
supporting said first belt; and a second suspension system for
supporting said second belt; wherein each of said first and second
suspension systems includes a resilient support assembly responsive
to deflection of said first or second belt upon frictional
engagement between said first or second belt and one of said
carriage assemblies.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of said resilient support
assemblies is interconnected with said first or second belt so as
to add tension to said belt upon frictional engagement between said
belt and one of said carriage assemblies and such that the added
tension increases as said carriage assembly deflects further
downwardly from said inactive position.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of said resilient support
assemblies includes a spring device interconnected with said first
or second belt such that said spring device is resistant to
deflection of said belt and such that the resistance of said spring
device increases at a varying rate as said carriage assembly
deflects further downwardly from said inactive position.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein each of said resilient support
assemblies includes a movable pulley interconnected with said
spring device, such that said spring device is resistant to
shifting of said movable pulley, said first or second belt being
rotatably supported about said movable pulley.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein said movable pulley is
supported on an arm member pivotable about a pivot point and
shiftable upon deflection of said first or second belt, said
movable pulley being arcuately movable about said pivot point upon
loading of said belt by one of said carriage assemblies.
6. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein each of said carriage
assemblies includes a coupling member having an engagement surface
for frictionally engaging one of said belts, wherein each of said
carriage assemblies is releasably pivotable from said inactive
position relative to one of said belts to a position wherein said
engagement surface frictionally engages said belt and is movable
therewith, wherein each of said belts is adapted to bias said
carriage assembly toward said disengaged position.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, further comprising a spring device
interconnected with said movable pulley and responsive to shifting
of said movable pulley, thereby biasing said belt to urge said
carriage assembly toward said disengaged position.
8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein said drive assembly and said
first or second carriage assembly are interconnected such that, as
said first or second carriage assembly initially advances
rearwardly or forwardly, said drive assembly accelerates said first
or second carriage assembly up to a predetermined velocity without
the user having to exert additional force to accelerate said
carriage assembly.
9. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein each of said first and second
carriage assemblies is frictionally engageable with one of said
first and second belts to drive said belt in a first direction when
said first or second carriage assemblies is moved in said first
direction, and wherein said first or second carriage assemblies is
disengageable from a substantially frictionally engaged relation
with said belt to move in a second direction opposite said first
direction.
10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said first and second
carriage assemblies are interconnected by a common continuous belt
such that said first carriage assembly can be accelerated in said
second direction through movement of said second belt by said
inertia drive assembly and said second carriage assembly can be
accelerated in said second direction through movement of said first
belt by said inertia drive assembly, wherein said common continuous
belt interconnects said first carriage assembly and said second
carriage assembly such that when said first carriage assembly is
moved one direction, said second carriage assembly is moved in an
opposite direction.
11. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said inertia drive assembly
includes a drive shaft and a first energy device rotatably coupled
with said drive shaft, said inertia drive assembly being disposed
proximate said first and second rails and engageable with said
first and second carriage assemblies such that, as said first or
second carriage assembly initially advances from a point of change
in direction along one of said rails, said first energy device can
accelerate said carriage assembly; and a second energy device
distinct from said first energy device, said second energy device
being engageable with said inertia drive assembly and adapted to
transmit energy thereto.
12. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein said carriage assemblies and
said suspension systems are positioned such that each said carriage
assembly is pivotable from said inactive position to a second
position whereat said carriage assembly is disposed in a generally
horizontal orientation, said increase in spring resistance being
substantially more pronounced as said carriage assembly moves
closer to said second position.
13. An exercise apparatus for enabling reciprocating motion of the
user's legs or feet while the user remains generally stationary,
said apparatus comprising: a stationary frame; a first longitudinal
rail supported, at least partially, by said frame; a second
longitudinal rail supported, at least partially, by said frame and
in generally parallel relation with said first rail; a first foot
carriage assembly movably engageable along said first rail and
pivotally fixed such that said first foot carriage assembly
deflects angularly downward through an angular path from an
inactive position upon application of pressure thereon by a user; a
second foot carriage assembly movably engageable along said second
rail and pivotally fixed such that said second foot carriage
assembly deflects angularly downward through an angular path from
an inactive position upon application of pressure thereon by a
user; an inertia device disposed proximate said first and second
rails and drivable upon movable operation of at least one of said
first and second carriage assemblies; a first resilient support
assembly positioned relative to said first carriage assembly so as
to be responsive to angular deflection of said first carriage
assembly by imparting a resistant force on said first carriage
assembly and against pressure applied thereon; and a second
resilient support assembly positioned relative to said second
carriage assembly so as to be responsive to angular deflection of
said second carriage assembly by imparting a resistant force on
said second carriage assembly and against pressure applied thereon,
wherein each said resilient support assembly is configured such
that said resistant force increases at a varying rate as said first
or second carriage assembly deflects through said angular path.
14. The exercise apparatus of claim 13, wherein each said resilient
support assemblies includes a spring extendable upon angular
deflection of said first or second carriage assembly, to impart a
resistant force thereon.
15. The exercise apparatus of claim 15, wherein said spring is
interconnected with said carriage assembly such that said spring
extends at a generally increasing rate as said carriage assembly
deflects through said angular path.
16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein said angular path of each
said carriage assemblies extends from said inactive position to a
position corresponding to a generally horizontal position of said
carriage assembly.
17. The apparatus of claim 16, wherein said resilient support
assembly is configured such that the resistant force imparted by
said spring is substantially increased as said carriage assembly
approaches said generally horizontal position.
18. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein said resilient support
assembly includes a crank interconnecting said spring with said
carriage assembly.
19. The exercise apparatus of claim 14, wherein each said resilient
support assembly includes a continuous belt rotatably engageable
with said first or second carriage assembly, said continuous belt
being positioned relative to said first or second carriage assembly
such that said continuous belt deflects downwardly upon engagement
with said first or second carriage assembly; and wherein said
continuous belt is operatively positioned intermediate said first
or second carriage assembly and said spring is interconnected with
said spring such that downward deflection of said continuous belt
linearly extends said spring at a rate that increases as said first
or second carriage assembly deflects through said angular path.
20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein each of said resilient
support assemblies includes a movable pulley rotatably supporting
said first or second continuous belt, said movable pulley being
supported on an arm member pivotable about a pivot point and
shiftable upon deflection of said first or second belt, such that
said movable pulley is arcuately movable about said pivot point
upon loading of said belt by one of said carriage assemblies, and
wherein said spring device is interconnected with said movable
pulley such that said spring device is resistant to shifting of
said movable pulley.
21. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each said resilient support
assembly includes an elastic band supportably engageable with said
first or second carriage assembly and stretchable upon angular
deflection of said first or second carriage assembly.
22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein each said resilient support
assembly includes a cam surface positioned intermediate said
carriage assembly and said elastic band, said cam surface being
engageable with said elastic band upon deflection of said first or
second carriage assemblies.
23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein each said cam surface is
shaped such that, as said carriage assembly deflects through said
angular path, an area of engagement between said cam surface and
said elastic band shifts said elastic band imparts said resistant
force on said carriage assembly at an increasing rate.
24. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein said resilient support
assembly is characterized by a non-linear spring constant.
25. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each said resilient support
assembly is fixed to said first or second longitudinal rail.
26. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein each said resilient support
assembly includes an elastic device and an intermediate deflection
element operatively positioned intermediate said elastic device and
said first or second carriage assembly such that said intermediate
element is directly engageable with said first or second carriage
assembly and movably responsive to angular deflection of said first
or second carriage assembly, and wherein said elastic device is
directly engageable with said intermediate element such that
movement of said intermediate deflection element in response to
angular deflection of said first or second carriage assembly causes
said elastic device to stretch and impart a resistant force
thereon.
27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein said intermediate deflection
element is directly movably responsive to angular deflection of
said first or second carriage assembly, and said elastic device is
positioned relative to said intermediate deflection element such
that movement of said intermediate deflection element stretches
said elastic device at a rate that increases as said first or
second carriage assembly moves through said angular path.
28. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein said intermediate deflection
element is a crank attached to said first or second carriage
assembly, and said elastic device is a linearly extendable spring
attached to said crank.
29. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein said intermediate deflection
element is a cam surface directly attached to said first or second
carriage assembly and said elastic device includes an elastic band
supportably engageable with said cam surface.
30. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein said intermediate deflection
element includes a continuous belt supportably engageable with said
carriage assembly and a moveable pulley shiftable upon deflection
of said continuous belt, and wherein said elastic device includes a
linearly extendable spring interconnected with said moveable
pulley.
31. An exercise apparatus for enabling reciprocating motion of the
user's legs or feet while the user remains generally stationary,
said apparatus comprising: a stationary frame; a first longitudinal
rail supported, at least partially, by said frame; a second
longitudinal rail supported, at least partially, by said frame and
in generally parallel relation with said first rail; a first foot
carriage assembly movably engageable along said first rail and
pivotally fixed to deflect angularly downward from an inactive
position through an angular path upon application of pressure
thereon by a user; a second foot carriage assembly movably
engageable along said second rail and pivotally fixed to deflect
angularly downward from an inactive position through an angular
path upon application of pressure thereon by a user; an inertia
device disposed proximate said first and second rails and drivable
upon movable operation of at least one of said first and second
carriage assemblies; and a first resilient support assembly
positioned relative to said first carriage assembly such that a
resistant force is imparted on said first carriage assembly in
response to angular deflection thereof; and a second resilient
support assembly positioned relative to said second carriage
assembly such that a resistant force is imparted on said second
carriage assembly in response to angular deflection thereof; and
wherein each said resilient support assembly is configured such
that said resistant force increases at a non-linear rate as said
first or second carriage assembly deflects through said angular
path.
32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein each said resilient support
assembly includes an elastic device and an intermediate deflection
element operatively positioned intermediate said elastic device and
said first or second carriage assembly such that said intermediate
deflection element is directly engageable with said first or second
carriage assembly and movably responsive to angular deflection of
said first or second carriage assembly, and wherein said elastic
device is directly engageable with said intermediate element such
that movement of said intermediate deflection element in response
to angular deflection of said first or second carriage assembly
causes said elastic device to stretch and impart a resistant force
thereon.
33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said intermediate deflection
element is directly movably responsive to angular deflection of
said first or second carriage assembly, and said elastic device is
positioned relative to said intermediate deflection element such
that movement of said intermediate deflection element stretches
said elastic device at a rate that increases as said first or
second carriage assembly moves through said angular path.
34. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said intermediate deflection
element includes a linkage assembly pivotally attached with said
first or second carriage assembly, and said elastic device is a
linearly extendable spring connected with said linkage
assembly.
35. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said intermediate deflection
element is a cam surface directly attached to said first or second
carriage assembly, and said elastic device includes an elastic band
supportably engageable with said cam surface.
36. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said intermediate deflection
element includes a continuous belt supportably engageable with said
carriage assembly and a movable pulley shiftable upon deflection of
said continuous belt, and wherein said elastic device includes a
spring interconnected with said movable pulley such that said
spring is linearly extendable in response to shifting of said
movable pulley.
37. The exercise apparatus of claim 32, wherein said elastic device
includes a spring extendable upon angular deflection of said first
or second carriage assembly, said spring being interconnected with
said intermediate deflection element and said carriage assembly
such that said spring extends at a generally increasing rate as
said carriage assembly deflects through said angular path.
38. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein said angular path of each
said carriage assembly extends from said inactive position to a
position corresponding to a generally horizontal position of said
carriage assembly.
Description
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of pending
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/674,322, with filing date of
Jul. 7, 2001, and entitled "A Stationary Type of Exercise Apparatus
That Enables Movement of the User's Feet in a Reciprocating
Motion," which is a National Stage filing of PCT International
Application PCT/US99/30935, having the same title and the
international filing date of Dec. 22, 1999. Each of the above
applications is incorporated by reference for all purposes and made
a part of the present disclosure.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to an exercise
apparatus and, more particularly, to an exercise apparatus that
enables the user to move his feet or legs in a reciprocating motion
while remaining stationary.
[0003] Running, walking, skiing and other activities wherein the
feet or legs are moved in a reciprocating motion are considered
effective forms of exercise. These activities help to load the
cardiovascular system as well as build muscle mass. Accordingly,
exercise apparatus exist which attempt to simulate these
activities. A typical prior art apparatus is designed to enable the
user to exercise within an enclosed structure while obtaining most
of the benefits of these simulate activities. The apparatus
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 3,941,377 (hereby incorporated by
reference) allows for variable resistance to be employed when foot
carriages are moved rearwardly, but allows for generally
un-resisted movement of the foot carriage in the forwardly
direction. U.S. Pat. No. 4,684,121 (hereby incorporated by
reference) discloses, on the other hand, an apparatus that may be
used to simulate a skiing motion or a rowing motion. Adapted for a
skiing exercise, the foot carriages disclosed can be moved along
rails and against a variable resistance. The resistance is constant
regardless of the direction of the movement of the foot
carriages.
[0004] Operation of most, if not all, of the exercise apparatus in
the prior art fails to accurately represent or simulate the actual
physical activity. Many of these exercise apparatus require the
user to exert some force other than force required in the normal
exercise activity to operate the system. For example, the user may
be required to exert additional force to accelerate a pedal or foot
block back to a system speed. Application of such force during the
simulated activity is unnatural and is not representative of the
actual activity. Furthermore, the application of such force usually
creates undesirable resistant forces which impact the user.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] It is one of several objects of the present invention to
provide a stationary type of exercise apparatus that is operable to
simulate activity wherein the feet or legs are moved in a
reciprocating motion, such as running, walking and skiing
activities. Another object of the invention is to provide an
apparatus for simulating such exercise activities in a manner that
more closely represents the actual physical activity and/or causes
relatively low impact to the user. A further object of the
invention is to provide at least one embodiment, the operation of
which involves utilization of inertia in the moving components of
the apparatus to accelerate foot travelers or foot carriage
assemblies. Preferably, the exercise apparatus is operable without
requiring the user to exert additional force to operate the moving
components of the apparatus.
[0006] In one aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus is
provided for enabling reciprocating motion of the user's legs or
feet while the user remains generally stationary. The inventive
apparatus includes a stationary frame, a first longitudinal rail
supported, at least partially, by the frame, and a second
longitudinal rail also supported, at least partially, by the frame
and in generally parallel relation with the first rail. The
apparatus further includes a first foot carriage assembly (or foot
traveler) that is movably engageable along the first rail, a second
foot carriage (or foot traveler) that is movably engageable along
the second rail, and an inertia drive assembly disposed proximate
the first and second rails. The inertia drive assembly includes a
first transmission device (preferably a continuous belt) that is
engageable with the first carriage assembly such that movable
operation of the first carriage assembly drives the inertia drive
assembly, and a second transmission device (preferably a continuous
belt) engageable with the second carriage such that movable
operation of the second carriage also drives the inertia drive
assembly. Moreover, the first and second carriage assemblies are
interconnected such that the inertia drive assembly can accelerate
each carriage assembly (e.g., as each of the first and second
carriage assemblies initially advances rearwardly or forwardly
along one of the rails) by way of one of the first and second
transmission devices.
[0007] The inertia drive assembly and the first or second carriage
assemblies may be interconnected such that as the first or second
carriage initially advances from a point of change in direction
(rearwardly or forwardly), the inertia drive assembly can
accelerate the carriage assembly up to a predetermined velocity
without the user having to exert additional force to accelerate the
carriage assembly. In one embodiment, each of the first and second
carriage assemblies is frictionally engageable with one of the
first and second belts (i.e., first and second transmission
devices) to drive the belt in a first direction when the first or
second carriage is moved in the first direction. Further, the first
or second carriage is disengageable from a substantially
frictionally engaged relation (attached and/or movable therewith)
with the belt to move in a second direction opposite the first
direction. Further yet, the first and second carriage assemblies
may be interconnected (i.e., by a common continuous belt) such that
each carriage assembly may be accelerated in the second direction
by the inertia drive assembly. More particularly, the first
carriage assembly may be accelerated in the second direction
through rotation of the second belt by the inertia drive assembly
(and transmission of this rotation through the common continuous
belt) and the second carriage assembly may be accelerated through
rotation of the first belt by the inertia drive assembly (and
transmission of this rotation through the common continuous
belt).
[0008] In another aspect of the invention, an exercise apparatus is
provided that has a stationary frame, first and second longitudinal
rails each supported, at least partially, by the frame and in
generally parallel relation. The apparatus also has a first foot
carriage assembly movably engageable along the first rail, a second
foot carriage movably engageable along the second rail, and an
inertia drive assembly that includes a first energy device. The
inertia drive assembly is disposed proximate the first and second
rails and is engageable with the first and second carriages such
that, as the first or second carriage initially advances rearwardly
or forwardly along one of the rails, the first energy device is
usable to accelerate the carriage assembly. The apparatus also has
a second energy device (i.e., distinct from the first energy
device) that is engageable with the inertia drive assembly and
adapted to transmit energy thereto. Preferably, the first energy
device is a flywheel rotatably mounted on an inertia drive shaft of
the drive assembly and the second energy device is a motor that is
engageable with the inertia drive assembly (e.g., operably
connected or coupled with the inertia drive shaft).
[0009] In one embodiment, the motor is operable to continuously
transmit power to the inertia drive assembly during operation of
the exercise apparatus by the user. In this way, the motor is used
to compensate for frictional losses, inertia directional losses,
and other energy losses inherent in the operation of the apparatus.
The motor may also be used (in conjunction with or in lieu of the
first energy device) to accelerate each of the foot carriage
assemblies to a predetermined speed upon a change in direction.
[0010] In yet another aspect of the invention, an exercise
apparatus is provided that includes a stationary frame, first and
second longitudinal rails supported, at least partially, by the
frame and in generally parallel relation. The apparatus also
includes a first foot carriage assembly movably engageable along
the first rail, a second foot carriage assembly movably engageable
along the second rail and a drive assembly (e.g., an inertia drive
assembly) disposed proximate the first and second rails and
drivable upon movable operation of the first or second carriage
assembly. The drive assembly includes first and second continuous
belts, each of which is engageable with a first or second carriage
assembly. Further, each of the first and second belts is rotatably
supported by a suspension system that includes a resilient support
assembly responsive to deflection of the belt upon frictional
engagement between the belt and a carriage assembly.
[0011] The resilient support assembly is preferably interconnected
with the first or second belt so as to further tension the belt
upon frictional engagement with the carriage assembly. The support
assembly may include a spring device interconnected with the belt
which acts to resist deflection of the belt. The support assembly
may also include a movable pulley interconnected with the spring
device and rotatably supporting the belt. The movable pulley is
preferably supported so as to be shiftable upon deflection of the
belt.
[0012] In further embodiments of the invention, the movable or
shiftable pulley is supported on a pivotable arm and is arcuately
or rotatably movable about its pivot point upon loading of the belt
by one of the carriage assemblies. A spring or tensioning device is
preferably attached to the pivot arm so as to be responsive to
deflection of the first or second belt. In this way, the spring
device provides resilient resistance (and bias) against loading of
the belt by one of the carriage assemblies. One advantageous result
of this is that impact experienced by the user (e.g., when the user
steps down on the carriage assembly to change its direction or to
transfer weight) is minimized.
[0013] In yet another aspect of the invention, an exercise
apparatus employs a unique, advantageous resilient support system.
The apparatus includes a stationary frame, first and second
longitudinal rails supported, at least partially, by the frame, and
in mutual generally parallel relation, first and second foot
carriage assemblies movably engageable along the first or second
rail and pivotally fixed such that the first or second foot
carriage assembly deflects angularly downward through an angular
path from an inactive position upon application of pressure thereon
by a user. The exercise apparatus also includes an inertia device
disposed proximate the first and second rails and drivable upon
movable operation of at least one of the first and second carriage
assemblies. Furthermore, the exercise apparatus employs a first
resilient support assembly positioned relative to the first
carriage assembly so as to be responsive to angular deflection of
the first carriage assembly by imparting a resistant force on the
first carriage assembly and against pressure applied thereon, and a
second resilient support assembly positioned relative to the second
carriage assembly so as to be responsive to angular deflection of
the second carriage assembly by imparting a resistant force on the
second carriage assembly and against pressure applied thereon. Each
resilient support assembly is configured such that the resistant
force increases at a varying rate (e.g., at a non-linear rate) as
the first or second carriage assembly deflects through the angular
path.
[0014] The resilient support assembly may include an elastic device
(e.g., a spring or elastic band) and an intermediate deflection
element (e.g., a cam surface, belts and pulleys, or linkage
assembly) operatively positioned intermediate the elastic device
and the first or second carriage assembly. In this way, the
intermediate deflection element is directly engageable with the
first or second carriage assembly and movably responsive to angular
deflection of the first or second carriage assembly. Further, the
elastic device is directly engageable with the intermediate element
such that movement of the intermediate deflection element in
response to angular deflection of the first or second carriage
assembly causes the elastic device to stretch and impart a
resistant force thereon.
[0015] Other and further objects, features, and advantages of the
present invention will be apparent from the following description
of a presently preferred embodiment (s) of the invention, given for
the purpose of disclosure, and taken in conjunction with the
accompanying drawing.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] A better understanding of the present invention can be
obtained when the following detailed description of the preferred
embodiment is considered in conjunction with the following Figures,
in which:
[0017] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exercise apparatus embodying the
present invention;
[0018] FIG. 2 is an elevation view of the exercise apparatus in
FIG. 1 showing a foot carriage assembly in a forward moving
mode;
[0019] FIG. 3 is an elevation view of the exercise apparatus in
FIG. 1 showing the foot carriage assembly in a rearward moving
mode;
[0020] FIG. 4 is a view of certain movable portions of the exercise
apparatus in FIG. 1;
[0021] FIG. 5 is an elevation view of an alternate foot carriage
assembly for the exercise apparatus shown in the forward moving
mode;
[0022] FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the foot carriage assembly of
FIG. 5 shown in the rearward moving mode;
[0023] FIG. 7 is an elevation view of a second alternate foot
carriage assembly for the exercise apparatus shown in the forward
moving mode;
[0024] FIG. 8 is an elevation view of the foot carriage assembly of
FIG. 7 shown in the rearward moving mode;
[0025] FIG. 9 is an elevation view of a third alternate foot
carriage assembly for the exercise apparatus shown in the forward
moving mode;
[0026] FIG. 10 is an elevation view of the foot carriage assembly
of FIG. 9 shown in the rearward moving mode;
[0027] FIG. 11 is an elevation view of an exercise apparatus
incorporating an alternative resilient support system according to
the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 12 is a graphical illustration of the resistant force
response of the resilient support system to pedal deflection,
according to the present invention; and
[0029] FIGS. 13A and 13B are elevation views of an alternative
resilient support system, according to the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0030] FIGS. 1-4 depict an exercise apparatus 20 embodying the
invention. The exercise apparatus 20 is of a stationary type that
enables a user to reciprocate motion of his/her feet or legs so as
to simulate running, walking and similar physical activity, while
the user remains generally stationary. It should be noted that the
structural configuration of exercise apparatus 20 and its
particular operation are exemplary and are described herein to
facilitate description of multiple aspects of the invention which
are applicable and adaptable to other types of exercise apparatus.
Upon reading the description and/or viewing the Figures, such
applications, adaptations and extensions of the invention shall
become apparent to one skilled in the relevant mechanical or
structural art.
[0031] With reference to FIGS. 1-4, exercise apparatus 20 includes
a rear frame 300, a front frame 301 and two pairs of longitudinal
rails 382 which connect frames 300, 301 and extends therebetween.
In the embodiment of FIG. 1, front frame 301 and rear frame 300 are
supported on the floor and remain stationary during operation of
exercise apparatus 20, as do longitudinal rails 382. Exercise
apparatus 20 may also be equipped with a stand that is connected to
front frame 301. Such a stand is used to house panels, gauges or
displays which may indicate, for example, exercise time and energy
expended. Accessories such as handles and armrests may also be
supported on this stand. Front frame 301 may be further equipped
with an elevation adjustment arm that is pivotally attached to
front frame 301. Such an elevation adjustment arm will typically be
supported near the front end of stationary exercise apparatus 20
and manually operable to adjust the elevation of the front end of
stationary exercise apparatus 20. Accordingly, exercise apparatus
20 may be placed in an inclined position such that the front end is
elevated above the rear end thereby increasing the difficulty of
the exercise.
[0032] As shown in FIG. 1, the pairs of rails 382 are disposed in
generally parallel relation and are spaced apart to approximate the
width of the user's stance. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, foot
carriage assemblies or travelers 380 are movably attached to rails
382 and include a foot attachment carriage or foot base portion
380a and wheels 381 attached to the foot base portion 380a. The
wheels 381, as will be shown below, are designed to rollably engage
and ride along rails 382. For engaging a user's foot, traveler 380
is equipped with a foot pedal 383 disposed on a top surface of foot
base portion 380a and above rails 382, and a foot toe piece 380c
integrated or attached thereto. Traveler 380 also includes a
generally downwardly extending pressure arm 380b.
[0033] As will be further described below, when foot base portion
380b is forced into a substantially horizontal attitude, which
occurs when the user is exerting force onto or through foot pedal
383, traveler 380 is advanced into an active position and then
moved rearward from the front end of exercise apparatus 20 to the
rear end of the exercise apparatus 20 (see mode illustrated in FIG.
3 as illustrated by the direction of arrow 350). This travel
segment may be referred to as a rearward or power stroke in that
the user is exerting force onto the exercise apparatus 20. In other
words, the user pushes the foot pedal 383 which moves the traveler
380 rearwardly toward rear frame 300. When the user removes weight
from the foot base portion 380b, traveler 380 returns automatically
to an inclined or inactive position and is then moved from the rear
end of exercise apparatus 20 to the front end of exercise apparatus
20 where it is prepared for another power stroke (see mode
illustrated in FIG. 2 as illustrated by the direction of arrow
351). This travel segment may be referred to as the forward or
return stroke. In one aspect of the invention further described
below, operation of apparatus 20 does not require for the user to
exert additional force to change the moving direction of traveler
382 (e.g. to change from the rearward moving direction to the
forward moving direction).
[0034] Other aspects of the invention are embodied in an improved
inertia transfer portion of the exercise apparatus 20. Most of the
components which may be described as of the inertia transfer
assembly or inertia drive assembly are located generally adjacent
rear frame 300, but may be located, in further embodiments,
elsewhere around the structure of the exercise apparatus 20.
Referring to FIGS. 1-4, the inertia transfer assembly may be
described as an assembly including a pair of vertically disposed
front drive pulleys 310, an inertia drive shaft 318 extending
perpendicularly through the two drive pulleys 310, and a first
energy source or front flywheel/brake 306 rotatable with inertia
drive shaft 318 and drive pulleys 310. Flywheel 306 may include a
brake system to increase or decrease resistance, well known to
those skilled in the art. Such a brake may include a mechanical
band brake system or an electromagnetic brake system, or an air-fan
brake system. Referring to FIG. 4, which better illustrates certain
of the movable components of the exercise apparatus 20, front drive
pulleys 310 are fixedly attached to and rotatable with inertia
drive shaft 318 which is also fixedly attached with flywheel/brake
306. The inertia transfer assembly may also be described as further
including a pair of vertically oriented continuous inertia belts
323 which are disposed in rotational relation about the pair of
drive pulleys 310 on the rear end and about a pair of idler pulleys
311 on the front end. As discussed below, inertia belt 323, inertia
drive shaft 318 and the components mounted to inertia drive shaft
318 are rotatable in the clockwise direction (for purposes of the
present description) as indicated by arrows ZZ in FIG. 4.
[0035] It should be noted that shaft 318, pulleys 310, 311 and
belts 323 which are integrated in exercise apparatus 20 are
conventional energy transmission devices. Upon reading the
description and viewing the drawings, it shall be apparent to one
skilled in the mechanical art to adapt the inventive exercise
apparatus 20 so as to integrate alternate transmission devices and
achieve many of the advantages and attributes associated with the
embodiment described herein.
[0036] In one aspect of the invention, exercise apparatus 20, or
more particularly, the inertia transfer portion, does not employ
clutch pulleys, clutch belts and other transmission devices which
have been employed in the prior art. One result is that exercise
apparatus 20 employs a simpler, more efficient design, which can be
operated with greater ease and reduced energy losses. In one
respect, exercise apparatus 20 can eliminate the use of clutch
belts or pulleys because a common continuos belt 314 is provided to
interlink or interconnect travelers 380 (and thus belts 323)
without engaging inertia drive shaft 318 or pulleys 310. Moreover,
common belt 314 does not directly drive inertia transfer assembly
(i.e., inertia drive shaft 318) to energize flywheel/brake 306.
Instead, the user drives the inertia transfer assembly by utilizing
travelers 380 to drivingly engage inertia belts 323, which drives
inertia drive shaft 318.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 4, common belt 314 is rotatably engaged
about an idler pulley 309 and an idler pulley 308. Travelers 380
are permanently coupled to the common belt 314 on opposite side of
the belt at locations which divide the belt into two equidistant
segments. Accordingly, when belt 314 is moved in a reciprocal
manner (shown by arrow YY) by user action on the travelers 380,
common belt 314 assures that travelers 380 are moving in generally
opposite directions.
[0038] Referring now to the side elevation views of FIGS. 2 and 3,
inertia belts 323 is supported by a resilient suspension system
which includes pulleys 310 and 311. At any given time during
operation of the exercise apparatus 20, belt 323 may be described
as having an upper portion 323a and a lower portion 323b. In yet
another inventive aspect of apparatus 20, the belt system is
configured such that rail 382 does not directly engage or directly
support inertia belt 323 and inertia belt 323. This configuration
provides more flexibility to inertia belt 323 and allows inertia
belt 323 to frictionally engage traveler 380 independent of the
track 382. Moreover, belt 323 can be used as part of a shock
absorber system of the exercise apparatus which, when engaged by
travelers 380, biases travelers 380 toward the inclined or inactive
position.
[0039] As described above, foot base portion 380a includes wheels
381 for rollingly engaging the inside track of rail 382. Pressure
arm 380b is equipped with a support roller 390 that is fixed at an
intermediate location on the arm 380a and a coupling member 391
fixed at the end. The coupling member 391 has an extended
engagement surface 391a that is particularly adapted to
frictionally engaging the lower portion 323b of belt 323. The
support roller 390 is configured to frictionally engage the upper
portion 323a of belt 323, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. In a forward
moving mode of the foot traveler 380, as shown in FIG. 2, traveler
380 is supported by wheels 381 which engage rail 382 and is
confined therein and by support roller 390 which rollingly engages
upper portion 323a of belt 323. In this forward moving mode,
tension or spring forces of belt 323 acting through engagement of
upper portion 323a and roller 390 causes traveler 380 to be
slightly rotated in the clockwise direction (see reciprocating
rotational path XX) and pivot about wheels 381. Pressure arm 380b
is, therefore, moved upwardly such that coupling member 391
disengages lower portion 323b of belt 323.
[0040] As best shown in FIG. 3, belt 323 is rotatably supported
about drive pulley 310 and idler pulley 311. FIG. 3 also depicts
the suspension system as including a link assembly or link 385
including a suspension arm 385a and a pulley support arm 385b. The
support arm 385b supports idler pulley 311 while suspension arm
385a is resiliently attached with a spring/shock absorber assembly
or tensioner 386. The link 385 is pivotally supported about a pivot
384 that is fixed to front frame 301 or other rigid support.
Tensioner 386 is pivotally attached at one end to suspension arm
385 while fixedly supported to frame 301 on an opposite end. The
tensioner 386 may be one of several conventional types which are
commercially available and generally known in the industry
including, but not limited to, standard springs, coils and/or
spring-shocks. A primary function of tensioner 386 is to provide
tension or resiliency to belt 323 via link 385. During operation of
apparatus 20, link 385 rotates about pivot 384 (i.e., in the
clockwise direction when referring to FIG. 3) upon force being
exerted by support roller 390 and/or coupling member 391 to belt
323. The combination of belt 323 and tensioner 386 also provides a
shock or impact absorber for the apparatus 20, particularly when
the user transfers weight or steps onto pedal 383. The combination
of pulley 311, link 385 and tensioner 386 may be referred to as a
resilient support assembly for purposes of the present
description.
[0041] FIG. 3 depicts traveler 380 in the rearward moving mode
(moving from right to left in this view in the direction of arrow
350). In the rearward moving mode, the user steps down and exerts
some body weight on foot pedal 383 and thus on traveler 380,
thereby causing his foot to move rearwardly (right to left). As a
result of pressure applied onto foot pedal 383, traveler 380 is
rotated counterclockwise and coupling member 391 is moved
downwardly to frictionally engage lower portion 323b of belt 323.
Further, link 385 rotates in the clockwise direction due to the
downward flection in belt 323 which causes tensioner 386 to extend
longitudinally outward. This extension of tensioner 386 provides a
resisting force and damping to the system. As mentioned above, one
advantageous result is a further reduction of the impact load
experienced as the user applies force to exercise apparatus 20.
[0042] By frictionally engaging coupling member 391 with belt 323,
the inertia transfer portion is coupled with one foot traveler 380.
The inertia transfer portion is also indirectly coupled to the
other traveler 380 through common belt 314 which is connected to
both travelers 380. Thus, when coupling member 391 frictionally
engages lower portion 323b of belt 323 (i.e., in the rearward
moving mode depicted in FIG. 3), the inertia of the system is used
to accelerate both travelers 380. It should be noted that the force
applied to the belt 323 through foot pedal 383 and pressure arm
380b is applied at two places--through coupling member 391
frictionally engaging lower portion 323b and through support roller
390 rollingly engaging upper portion 323b. In this way, the tension
applied on the belt 323 is reduced by approximately one-half of
what it would be if the force was applied only through coupling
member 391, for any given angular deflection of foot traveler
380.
[0043] Now turning to FIG. 11, an exercise apparatus 1120 is
depicted having an alternative resilient support system according
to the invention. An exercise apparatus of the type shown in FIG.
11 (minus the resilient support system and the foot/pedal system)
is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,690,589 (hereby incorporated by
reference for all purposes and made a part of the present
disclosure). The focus of the present description will be on the
inventive resilient support system rather than the basic structural
elements of the exercise apparatus 1120. As will become apparent to
one skilled in the art, the inventive resilient support system is
equally applicable to other types and variations of the exercise
apparatus. The exercise apparatus 1120 of FIG. 11 is described
herein for exemplary purposes.
[0044] Briefly, the exercise apparatus 1120 includes a frame 1110,
a top or upright portion 1116, and a support platform 1116a
connected thereto for user support. The exercise apparatus 1120
further includes a pair of left and right reciprocating members
1140. Each reciprocating member 1140 has a first end with a roller
1136 fixed thereto and adapted for travel along a predetermined
path defined by left or right rail 1126. Each reciprocating member
1140 also has a second, upper end rotatably attached to inertia
device 1150 by way of crank 1142. The inertia device 1150 comprises
a coupling system fixed to the frame 1110 and may include a pulley,
crank members, resistant brake, belts and other components as is
generally known in the art.
[0045] In one aspect of the invention, the exercise apparatus 1120
according to this embodiment also includes a pair of left and right
travelers 1180 (i.e., carriage assemblies) having a foot pedal
1182. Each traveler or carriage assembly 1180 is fixedly joined to
a reciprocating member 1140, and thus, is operable to move
reciprocating members 1140 and inertia device 1150.
[0046] The resilient support assembly includes a linkage assembly
1184 having a first link 1184a and a second link 1184b, and a
linearly extending spring 1186. The first link 1184a has one end
pivotally attached to the traveler 1180 and an opposite end
pivotally attached to the second link 1184a. The second link 1184b
is also pivotally attached to the reciprocating member 1140.
Further, the intersection or pivotal connection between links 1184a
and 1184b is joined with one end of the spring 1186, which is
attached on an opposite end to reciprocating member 1140. As
illustrated in FIG. 11, movement of traveler 1180 causes movement
of reciprocating member 1140 and inertia device 1150. Movement of
traveler 1180 is initiated by the user applying pressure on the
pedal 1182 causing to deflect angularly downward, which, in turn,
directly causes pivotal movement of links 1184a, 1184b. Movement of
links 1184a, 1184b further causes linear extension (although
disproportionately) of spring 1186, as will be further described
below.
[0047] One feature of the resilient support assembly (or pedal
suspension system) is that it is attached to the reciprocating
member 1140 (as opposed to the frame; see FIGS. 2 and 3) and thus
travels with the reciprocating member 1140. As foot pedal 1182
rotates or deflects angularly downward under application of user
weight, links 1184a and 1184b causes linear extension of the spring
1186. The configuration or geometry of the links 1184a, 1184b is
such that, while the links 1184 are directly movably responsive to
angular deflection of the traveler 1180 (through linear and angular
movement, angular deflection of traveler 1180 does translate, at
least initially, directly to spring 1186 and to linear spring
extension. Accordingly, angular deflection of the traveler 1180
does not always cause a directly corresponding linear extension of
spring 1186 (whereas, it may cause a directly corresponding
movement of link 1184a, 1184b). Instead, as the traveler 1180
angularly deflects downward from the inactive position to a
generally horizontal, fully engaged position, the spring 1186
becomes more directly responsive. That is, as the traveler 1180
approaches the generally horizontal position, the response of the
spring 1186 (i.e., linear extension) increases, and thus, the
apparent stiffness (or apparent spring constant) of the resilient
support system increases dramatically. This response is similar to
the response of the resilient support system in FIGS. 2 and 3.
[0048] In other words, angular deflection of foot pedals 1182
causes linear extension of the spring 1186; however, the rate of
linear extension (as a response) increases with further deflection.
As a result, the increase in resistance of the spring 1186 (due to
spring extension) is highly concentrated or pronounced at a small
window corresponding to a particular phase or arc of the angular
deflection of foot pedal 1182. This window corresponds to angular
deflection of the foot pedal 1182 as the foot pedal 1182 approaches
the generally horizontal position (as shown for the right pedal in
FIG. 1100). Within this window, the rate of spring extension
increases substantially as does the resultant resistant force.
[0049] When designing a pivoting pedal suspension system as in
FIGS. 1-11 (and FIG. 12), the total range of user body weights must
be considered. Such a pedal suspension system must typically
accommodate weight ranges between about 80-300 lbs. The typical
spring or spring system with linear or approximate linear behavior
may not accommodate such a range of body weights. A spring
appropriate for the 80 lb. user will bottom out for the 300 lb.
user, whereas a spring appropriate for the 300 lb. user will be
barely deflected by the 80 lb. user. Therefore, a highly non-linear
resilient support system is required to provide a workable
suspension in a pivoting footplate system. Such a highly non-linear
system is also shown in FIGS. 2 and 3. As the user steps on pedal
383, it pivots downward, forcing deflection of belt 323. Belt 323
in turn applies force to pulley 311. Pulley 311 which is mounted on
element 385, rotates upwardly about pivot 385 causing linear
extension of spring 386. As the pedal 383 is pivoted further
downward and pulley 311 further rotates upward, the stiffness (or
apparent spring constant) of the pedal system increases
dramatically due to increased rate of extension of spring 1186.
[0050] In these designs, the resilient support systems may be said
to have a non-linear spring constant, because the resistant force
generated due to spring extension is non-linear. In fact, the
additional resistant force generated per a given spring extension
increases substantially as the foot pedal or carriage assembly
approaches the generally horizontal position.
[0051] FIG. 12 illustrates the deflection range of the pedal,
versus the user weight and resistant force generated by the
resilient support system. The deflection range of the pedal
represented by the intersection of the vertical lines on the
horizontal axis is similar for a wide range of body weights. For a
given small window 1210 of pedal deflection, the exercise
apparatus, particularly the resilient support system, can
accommodate a range of body weights corresponding to the range
between a light user and a heavy user, as is desired. FIG. 12 also
shows that through the first phase of pedal angular
deflection--before the small window 1210--the response of the
resilient support system (in the form of a resistant force
generated primarily by an elastic device as described herein)
increases at a very slow rate. Then, at the small window 1120, the
response increases substantially.
[0052] FIGS. 13A and 13B depict yet another embodiment of the
resilient support system according to the invention. In this
embodiment, an elastomeric system is employed in the form of an
elastomeric support band 1330. The band 1330 provides support to
foot pedals 1382 (i.e., carriage assemblies). Each foot pedal 1382
includes an integrated cam or cam surface 1386 having a unique
shape. The cam 1386 engages elastomeric band 1330 as shown in FIG.
13A. As the pedal 1382 deflects angularly downward, the stretch
induced in elastomeric band 1330 substantially increases because of
the shape of the cam surface. The point or area of contact of the
band 1330 on the cam 1386 moves rearward as the pedal 1383 rotates
downward, thereby further increasing the apparent stiffness of the
resilient support system. In this embodiment, the resilient support
system is provided by the combination of the elastomeric band 1130
and the cam 1386.
[0053] In each of the embodiments of FIGS. 1-11, FIG. 12, and FIG.
13, the resilient support system may be referred to as having an
elastic device and an intermediate deflection element operatively
positioned between the traveler and pedal, and the elastic device.
The elastic device is primarily responsible for generating the
resistant force (against the pressure applied to the pedal by the
user) in a non-linearly responsive manner. The intermediate
deflection element is positioned to directly engage and be directly
movably responsive to the pedal and to pedal deflection. In FIGS. 2
and 3, the intermediate deflection element is provided in the form
of continuous belts 323 and pulleys 310, 311, and the elastic
device is in the form of spring 386. In FIG. 12, the intermediate
deflection element is provided in the form of links 1184a, 1184b,
and the elastic device is spring 1186. Finally, in the embodiment
of FIGS. 13A and 13B, the intermediate deflection element is
provided in the form of cam surface 1386, and the elastic device is
elastic band 1330.
[0054] It should again be noted that flywheel 306 provides an
energy source for performing the function of accelerating the
system as the foot travelers 380 changes direction. This energy,
which is stored by flywheel 306 is supplied by the user. In this
respect, flywheel 306 performs instantaneously and
continuously.
[0055] In yet another aspect of the invention, the inertia transfer
assembly may include, or may be operable with, a second energy
source such as a motor 399 (see FIGS. 2 and 3). Such a second
energy source may be provided for continuously adding energy to the
system and to compensate for energy losses due to friction and
inertial direction changes. The utilization of two energy sources
in this way further facilitates operation of exercise apparatus 20
and makes such operation almost transparent to the user. The user
of the present inventive apparatus 20 needs only to support his
weight while performing a running motion; the user does not need to
apply any other force to the pedals 380 to keep the system in
continuous motion.
[0056] In FIGS. 2 and 3, an electric motor 399 is shown as the
second energy source. The motor 399 includes a pulley 399a which is
rotatably coupled, via a belt 399b, with another pulley 399c that
is disposed about, and rotatable with, inertia shaft 318. In the
Figures, motor 399 is shown supported just below inertia shaft 318
with second pulley 399b disposed adjacent flywheel/brake 306.
Unlike flywheel/brake 306, motor 399 is preferably energized by a
source external to the inertia transfer assembly (e.g. a/c or d/c
power), i.e., not by the user. Motor 399 is, however, operable to
drive inertia shaft 318 and the rest of the inertia transfer
portion.
[0057] In alternative embodiments, exercise apparatus 20 may employ
a combination of a motor and inertia device such as a flywheel. In
further alternative embodiments, an energy source in the form of a
motor may serve dual functions as both the motor and inertia
device. In such a case, a flywheel may be added to and become an
integral part of the motor, or the armature of the motor may be
designed to function as a flywheel. Control of a motor in any of
these embodiments may be performed in one of several ways which are
familiar to those skilled in the art. For example, a conventional
torque controller may be used to power the motor and so as to
overcome drag present in the system. Alternately, a velocity
controller may be integrated and employed to power the motor so as
to maintain a specified system velocity.
[0058] The present inventive exercise apparatus 20 enhances the
workout of the user and provides for a more natural motion by
essentially eliminating the need for the user to exert force to
initiate movement of each traveler from zero velocity. The user of
the inventive apparatus does not have to accelerate the traveler
from zero velocity at the beginning of each active stroke to the
velocity of a normal gait or system speed. Acceleration is instead
achieved through utilization of the inertia drive system and/or
another energy device such as a motor. Accordingly, the present
invention can more accurately simulate normal constant speed
activity, such as running.
[0059] In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 5 and 6,
exercise apparatus 20 employs an alternate foot traveler 480
according to the invention. FIG. 5 depicts traveler 480 in the
forward moving mode while FIG. 6 depicts traveler 480 in the
rearward moving mode. The foot traveler 480 is equipped with a
second support roller 492 in addition to support roller 490, each
of which is connected onto pressure arm 480a. Traveler 480 also has
a coupling member 491 that extends outward from pressure arm 480a
and has an engagement surface 491a for frictionally engaging lower
portion 423b of belt 423. The second support roller 492 works in
conjunction with first support roller 490 and coupling member 491
by engaging belt 423 as the traveler rotates counterclockwise but
before engagement surface 491a engages lower portion 423b of belt
423. The second support roller 492 allows lower portion 423b of
belt 423 to share, with first support roller 490, the load with
upper portion 423b during intermediate angles of traveler rotation
(i.e., during directional changes).
[0060] In the alternative embodiment depicted in FIGS. 7 and 8,
exercise apparatus 20 employs yet another foot traveler 580
according to the invention. FIG. 7 depicts traveler 580 in the
forward moving mode while FIG. 8 depicts traveler 580 in the
rearward moving mode. The foot traveler 580 is equipped with a
second support roller 592 in addition to support roller 590, each
of which is attached to pressure arm 580a. Traveler 580 also has a
coupling member 591 that extends outward from pressure arm 580a and
has an engagement surface 591a. Unlike foot traveler 480 and other
foot travelers, however, engagement surface 591a of traveler 580 is
designed to frictionally engage upper portion 523a of belt 523
rather than lower portion 523b. The engagement surface 591a is an
inclined surface that faces upward and is frictionally engageable
with the bottom side of upper portion 523a when traveler 580 is
rotated in the clockwise direction. Accordingly, traveler 523 is
movable with upper portion 523b in the forward moving mode of
traveler 523.
[0061] FIGS. 9 and 10 depict yet another embodiment of the exercise
apparatus 20 according to the invention. The exercise apparatus 20
employs a traveler 680 that is equipped with a foot pedal 683 that
is pivotable relative to the traveler 680. Through the foot pedal
683, traveler 680 extends the rotational range of motion of the
user or more particularly, the user's foot. Among other attributes,
this feature improves the user's comfort and flexibility. In
further embodiments, a spring may be provided on traveler 680 to
bias the engagement with foot pedal 683.
[0062] It should be noted that the travelers depicted and described
with respect to FIGS. 2-10 may be used in combination with any
other structural features of the inventive exercise apparatus 20.
The selection of, and performance of, any necessary modification
will be apparent to one skilled in the art, upon reading the above
description, and the invention adapted to suit particular
applications.
[0063] The foregoing description of the various aspects of the
present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration
and description. It is to be noted that the description is not
intended to limit the invention to the exercise apparatus, its
components and the method of operation disclosed herein. For
example, various aspects of the invention may be applicable to
other exercise apparatus or apparatus requiring reciprocal motion
or simulating actual physical activity on a stationary frame, any
of which will become apparent to one skilled in the relevant
mechanical art who is provided with the present disclosure.
Consequently, variations and modifications commensurate with the
above teachings, and the skill and knowledge of the relevant art,
are within the scope of the present invention. The embodiments of
the inventive exercise apparatus described are further intended to
explain best modes for practicing the invention, and enable others
skilled in the art to utilize the invention in other embodiments
and with various modifications required by the particular
applications or uses of the present invention.
* * * * *