U.S. patent application number 10/927735 was filed with the patent office on 2005-03-03 for striding simulators.
Invention is credited to Rodgers, Robert E. JR..
Application Number | 20050049117 10/927735 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34221721 |
Filed Date | 2005-03-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050049117 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Rodgers, Robert E. JR. |
March 3, 2005 |
Striding simulators
Abstract
An exercise apparatus may include a frame that remains
substantially stationary during use. The apparatus may include
movable members that move relative to a portion of the frame. Foot
members may be coupled to the movable members. Arm links may be
coupled to the movable members. A drive system may be coupled to
the frame. An apparatus may include a linkage assembly directly
attached to the drive system and to the arm links.
Inventors: |
Rodgers, Robert E. JR.;
(Canyon Lake, TX) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MEYERTONS, HOOD, KIVLIN, KOWERT & GOETZEL, P.C.
P.O. BOX 398
AUSTIN
TX
78767-0398
US
|
Family ID: |
34221721 |
Appl. No.: |
10/927735 |
Filed: |
August 27, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60499199 |
Aug 29, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 ;
482/57 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2022/0676 20130101;
A63B 21/225 20130101; A63B 22/0017 20151001; A63B 21/02 20130101;
A63B 22/001 20130101; A63B 22/0046 20130101; A63B 22/0664
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/052 ;
482/057 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/04 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame is
configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; a drive system
coupled to the frame; and a linkage assembly directly attached to
the drive system and to the left and right arm links.
2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the linkage assembly comprises
one or more members directly attaching the left and right arm links
to the drive system.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the drive system comprises at
least one pulley, at least one belt, and at least one crank.
5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move relative to a fixed point on the
frame.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
8. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame is
configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; and a belt system
comprising a belt and at least one brake/inertia device, wherein
the belt system is coupled to the left and right movable
members.
9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system is configured
to provide inertial forces to a user during use of the
apparatus.
11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system is configured
to store at least some energy provided by a user during use and to
provide at least a portion of the stored energy back to the user
during use of the apparatus.
12. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system is directly
attached to the left and right movable members.
13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system is directly
attached to axles on the left and right movable members.
14. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system comprises one
or more pulleys and at least one belt.
15. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the belt system comprises one
or more pulleys and at least one belt, and wherein the pulleys are
coupled to clutches.
16. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
17. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
18. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame
is configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; a drive system
coupled to the frame; and a linkage assembly coupled to the drive
system and to the left and right arm links, wherein the linkage
assembly comprises a user adjustable slider assembly configured to
allow the user to adjust the user's stride length during use of the
apparatus.
19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the linkage assembly is
directly attached to the drive system and to the left and right arm
links.
20. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises one or more members directly attaching the left and right
arm links to the drive system.
21. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the user adjustable slider
assembly is configured to allow the user to adjust the user's
stride length by varying a position of the slider assembly in the
linkage assembly.
22. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the user adjustable slider
assembly comprises a device for varying a position of the slider
assembly.
23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the device comprises a
servomotor.
24. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
25. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the drive system comprises
at least one pulley, at least one belt, and at least one crank.
26. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move relative to a fixed point on the
frame.
27. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
28. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
29. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame
is configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; a drive system
coupled to the frame; and a linkage assembly coupled to the drive
system and to the left and right arm links, wherein a length in the
linkage assembly can be adjusted by a user of the apparatus to vary
the angle of rotation of the left and/or right arm links.
30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the linkage assembly is
directly attached to the drive system and to the left and right arm
links.
31. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises one or more members directly attaching the left and right
arm links to the drive system.
32. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the linkage assembly is
configured to allow the user to adjust the user's stride length by
changing the length in the linkage assembly using a user adjustable
slider assembly and varying the angle of rotation of the left and
right arm links.
33. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises a device for adjusting the length in the linkage
assembly.
34. The apparatus of claim 33, wherein the device comprises a
servomotor.
35. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
36. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the drive system comprises
at least one pulley, at least one belt, and at least one crank.
37. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move relative to a fixed point on the
frame.
38. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
39. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
40. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame
is configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; a drive system
coupled to the frame; and a linkage assembly comprising left and
right linkage assemblies, wherein the left linkage assembly is
directly attached to the drive system at a first left end of the
linkage assembly and directly attached to the left arm link at a
second left end of the linkage assembly, wherein the right linkage
assembly is directly attached to the drive system at a first right
end of the linkage assembly and directly attached to the right arm
link at a second right end of the linkage assembly, and wherein the
linkage assembly comprises at least one device configured to allow
variation in a length of the linkage assembly between at least one
first end of the linkage assembly and at least one second end of
the linkage assembly during use of the apparatus.
41. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein at least one of the devices
allows instantaneous variation in the length of the linkage
assembly to allow a user to instantaneously vary the user's stride
length during use of the apparatus.
42. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein variation in the length of
the linkage assembly allows a user to vary the user's stride length
during use of the apparatus.
43. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein at least one of the devices
configured to allow variation in the length of the linkage assembly
comprises a lever arm coupling between two members of the linkage
assembly and a spring coupled between one of the members and the
lever arm.
44. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein at least one of the devices
configured to allow variation in the length of the linkage assembly
comprises at least one variable length linkage assembly member and
a resistive element coupled to the variable length member.
45. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
46. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the drive system comprises
at least one pulley, at least one belt, and at least one crank.
47. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move relative to a fixed point on the
frame.
48. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
49. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
50. The apparatus of claim 40, wherein the left movable member and
the right movable member are cross coupled so that the left movable
member moves in opposition to the right movable member.
51. An exercise apparatus, comprising: a frame, wherein the frame
is configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains
substantially stationary during use; a left movable member
configured to move relative to at least a portion of the frame; a
right movable member configured to move relative to at least a
portion of the frame; a left foot member coupled to the left
movable member; a right foot member coupled to the right movable
member; a left arm link coupled to the left movable member; a right
arm link coupled to the right movable member; a drive system
coupled to the frame; and a linkage assembly coupled to the drive
system and the left and right arm links, wherein the linkage
assembly is configured to provide a varying resistive force to
allow a user of the apparatus to vary the user's stride length
during use of the apparatus.
52. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the linkage assembly is
configured to allow the user to instantaneously vary the user's
stride length during use of the apparatus.
53. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the varying resistive force
in the linkage assembly is provided by a lever arm coupled between
at least two members of the linkage assembly and a spring coupled
between one of the members and the lever arm.
54. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the linkage assembly
comprises one or more members, and wherein the varying resistive
force in the linkage assembly is provided by at least one of the
linkage assembly members configured to vary its length and a
resistive element coupled to the varied length member.
55. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the left and right foot
members are coupled to foot suspension systems.
56. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the drive system comprises
at least one pulley, at least one belt, and at least one crank.
57. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move relative to a fixed point on the
frame.
58. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the left and right movable
members are configured to move along rails on at least a portion of
the frame.
59. The apparatus of claim 5 1, wherein the left and right movable
members comprise rear ends, and wherein the rear ends of each of
the left and right movable members are configured to move in a
reciprocating motion.
60. The apparatus of claim 51, wherein the left movable member and
the right movable member are cross coupled so that the left movable
member moves in opposition to the right movable member.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application No. 60/499,199 entitled "Variable Striding
Simulator" to Robert E. Rodgers, Jr., filed on Aug. 29, 2003.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates generally to an exercise
apparatus. Certain embodiments relate to exercise apparatus that
may allow exercise such as simulated climbing, walking, striding,
and/or jogging.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Exercise devices have been in use for years. Some typical
exercise devices that simulate walking or jogging include cross
country ski machines, stair climbing machines, elliptical motion
machines, and pendulum motion machines.
[0006] In many exercise apparatus, the user's foot is constrained
during exercise to patterns that may not accurately represent the
typical path and/or position of a foot during walking and/or
jogging. For example, cross country ski machines may not allow a
user to lift the front of his/her foot above a flat plane defined
by the top of the pedal or footpad. Elliptical machines may
constrain a user's foot to the mechanically defined elliptical path
of the footpads or foot pedals. An ellipse, however, may not
completely replicate a striding motion, particularly near a front
of the elliptical path. Pendulum motion machines may cause a user's
foot to move through a small radius of curvature that may not
satisfactorily simulate a striding motion. Many such exercise
apparatus may require a user to "learn" a path of motion for the
individual exercise apparatus that is not natural to the user.
[0007] In addition, many exercise apparatus require a user to exert
some force other than force required in the normal exercise
activity to operate the system. For example, a user may have to
exert additional force to accelerate a pedal or footpad back to a
system speed. Application of such force during simulated activity
may be unnatural and not representative of actual walking,
striding, or jogging.
[0008] Some exercise apparatus have been developed that utilize the
inertia in moving components of the apparatus to accelerate a
user's foot during use of the apparatus. U.S. Pat. No. 6,626,802 to
Rodgers, Jr. and published U.S. patent application Ser. No.
10/611,497 to Rodgers, Jr., which are incorporated by reference as
if fully set forth herein, disclose exercise apparatus that provide
for an enabling reciprocating motion of the user's legs or feet
while the user remains generally stationary. The exercise apparatus
includes an inertia drive assembly that may accelerate foot
carriage assemblies as the carriage assemblies initially advance
rearwardly or forwardly along rails.
SUMMARY
[0009] In an embodiment, an exercise apparatus may include a frame.
The frame may include at least a portion that remains substantially
stationary during use. The apparatus may include a left movable
member and a right movable member that move relative to at least a
portion of the frame. A left foot member and a right foot member
may be coupled to the left movable member and the right movable
member, respectively. A left arm link and a right arm link may be
coupled to the left movable member and the right movable member,
respectively. A drive system may be coupled to the frame. In
certain embodiments, an apparatus may include a linkage assembly
directly attached to the drive system and to the left and right arm
links.
[0010] In some embodiments, an apparatus may include a belt system.
The belt system may include a belt and at least one pulley. The
belt system may be coupled to the left and right movable members.
The belt and pulley system may provide inertial forces to a user
during use of the apparatus.
[0011] In certain embodiments, the left and right foot members may
be coupled to foot suspension systems. In some embodiments, the
movable members may move along rails on at least a portion of the
frame.
[0012] In some embodiments, a linkage assembly may include a user
adjustable slider assembly. The user adjustable slider assembly may
allow a user of the apparatus to adjust the user's stride length
during use of the apparatus. In some embodiments, a user adjustable
slider assembly may include a motor (e.g., a servomotor) for
varying a position of the slider assembly. In some embodiments, a
length in the linkage assembly can be adjusted by a user of the
apparatus to vary the angle of rotation of the left and right arm
links. The length in the linkage assembly may be adjusted using a
user adjustable slider assembly.
[0013] In certain embodiments, a linkage assembly may include left
and right linkage assemblies. The left and right linkage assemblies
may be directly attached to the drive system at a first left end
and a first right end of the linkage assembly and directly attached
to the left and right arm links at a second left end and a second
right end of the linkage assembly. The left linkage assembly may be
directly attached to the drive system at a first left end of the
linkage assembly and directly attached to the left arm link at a
second left end of the linkage assembly. The right linkage assembly
may be directly attached to the drive system at a first right end
of the linkage assembly and directly attached to the right arm link
at a second right end of the linkage assembly.
[0014] The linkage assembly may include a device that allows
variation in a length of the linkage assembly between the first
left end and the second left end, or between the first right end
and the second right end, of the linkage assembly during use of the
apparatus. In some embodiments, the device may allow instantaneous
variation in the length of the linkage assembly. Variation in the
length of the linkage assembly may allow variation in a user's
stride length during use of the apparatus. In some embodiments, a
linkage assembly may provide a varying resistive force to allow a
user of the apparatus to vary stride length during use of the
apparatus.
[0015] In some embodiments, the device may include a lever arm
coupled between two members in the linkage assembly. The device may
also include a spring coupled between one of the members and the
lever arm. In some embodiments, the device may include a variable
length member and a resistive element coupled to the variable
length member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0016] Advantages of the present invention may become apparent to
those skilled in the art with the benefit of the following detailed
description and upon reference to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0017] FIG. 1 depicts a side view of an embodiment of an exercise
apparatus.
[0018] FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a linkage assembly and drive
system for an exercise apparatus.
[0019] FIGS. 3 and 4 depict an embodiment of a foot member and
movable member configuration.
[0020] FIG. 5 depicts an embodiment of a footpad and a movable
member.
[0021] FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of a footpad directly mounted
on a movable member.
[0022] FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment of a walking pattern.
[0023] FIG. 8 depicts a side view of an embodiment of an exercise
apparatus.
[0024] FIG. 9 depicts an embodiment of an isometric loop formed by
a belt.
[0025] FIG. 10 depicts an embodiment of an isometric loop formed by
a belt.
[0026] FIG. 11 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0027] FIG. 12 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0028] FIG. 13 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0029] FIG. 14 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0030] FIG. 15 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0031] FIG. 16 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0032] FIG. 17 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0033] FIG. 18 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0034] FIG. 19 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an adjustable linkage assembly.
[0035] FIG. 20 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0036] FIG. 21 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0037] FIG. 22 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0038] FIG. 23 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0039] FIG. 24 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an instantaneously variable linkage assembly.
[0040] FIG. 25 depicts an embodiment for operation of a pivoting
end.
[0041] FIG. 26 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an instantaneously variable length linkage assembly.
[0042] FIG. 27 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an instantaneously variable length linkage assembly.
[0043] FIG. 28 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0044] FIG. 29 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0045] FIG. 30 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0046] FIG. 31 depicts a representation of an embodiment of an
exercise apparatus.
[0047] While the invention is susceptible to various modifications
and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by
way of example in the drawings and may herein be described in
detail. The drawings may not be to scale. It should be understood,
however, that the drawings and detailed description thereto are not
intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed,
but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications,
equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope
of the present invention as defined by the appended claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0048] In the context of this patent, the term "coupled" means
either a direct connection or an indirect connection (e.g., one or
more intervening connections) between one or more objects or
components. The phrase "directly attached" means a direct
connection between objects or components.
[0049] FIG. 1 depicts a side view of an embodiment of an exercise
apparatus. Frame 100 may include a basic supporting framework and
an upper stalk. Frame 100 may be any structure that provides
support for one or more components of an exercise apparatus. In
certain embodiments, all or a portion of frame 100 may remain
substantially stationary during use. For example, all or a portion
of frame 100 may remain substantially stationary relative to a
floor on which the exercise apparatus is used. "Stationary"
generally means that an object (or a portion of the object) has
little or no movement during use. For example, an exercise
apparatus would be "stationary" if the apparatus is operated in one
location (in contrast to a movable exercise apparatus such as an
ordinary bicycle), even if the apparatus wobbles or vibrates during
use.
[0050] In an embodiment, rails 102 may be coupled to and/or
supported by frame 100. In some embodiments, frame 100 may perform
the function of rails 102. In FIG. 1, both right and left sides of
the linkage system are shown. The right and left sides of the
apparatus may be used for the right and left feet of a user,
correspondingly. The right and left sides of the apparatus may be
mirror images along a vertical plane oriented along the center of
the machine as viewed from above. In other embodiments depicted
herein, only the left or right side of the apparatus may be shown.
It is to be understood that in embodiments in which only one side
of the apparatus is depicted, the other side may be a mirror image
of the depicted side.
[0051] Left and right movable members 104 may be supported at the
rear by wheels 106. Wheels 106 may translate in rails 102. In
certain embodiments, left and right movable members 104 may be
movable members that move in a back and forth motion (i.e., one
member moves forward as the other member moves backward in a
reciprocating motion). In some embodiments, movable members 104 may
be movable members that move in a closed path (e.g., an
asymmetrical path). The path or motion (e.g., reciprocating motion
or closed path motion) of movable members 104 may be determined
during the process of designing an exercise apparatus (e.g., by a
designer of the exercise apparatus). For example, a designer of an
exercise apparatus may design the linkage geometry of the exercise
apparatus to provide a determined path of motion of movable members
104.
[0052] The forward portions of movable members 104 may be pivotally
coupled to arm links 108. Arm links 108 may be designed so that the
upper portions can be used as grasping members (e.g., handles). Arm
links 108 may be pivotally coupled to and supported by frame 100 at
point 110. In an embodiment, arm links 108 are pivotally coupled to
crank links 112. In certain embodiments, arm links 108 may be
directly attached (e.g., pivotally coupled and directly attached)
to crank links 112. Crank links 112 may be pivotally coupled to
crank members 114. In certain embodiments, crank links 112 may be
directly attached to crank members 114. Crank members 114 may drive
pulley device 116, which in turn may drive brake/inertia device 118
using belt 120.
[0053] In certain embodiments, crank links 112 may be directly
attached to arm links 108 and to a drive system. A "drive system"
may include, in a generic case, crank member 114 coupled (either
directly attached or indirectly attached) to pulley device 116. In
some embodiments, a drive system may include brake/inertia device
118 and/or belt 120. In some embodiments, a drive system may be
formed from other types of devices that generally convert
reciprocation or motion of a member to rotation. For example, a
drive system may include a ring (e.g., a metal ring) supported by
one or more rollers. In certain embodiments, a crank drive may
include one or more intermediate components between the crank
member and the pulley (e.g., an axle or connectors). In certain
embodiments, a drive system may be directly attached to frame 100.
In some embodiments, a drive system may be indirectly coupled to
frame 100 with one or more components coupling the drive system to
the frame.
[0054] A brake/inertia device (e.g., brake/inertia device 118) may
provide a load to affect the intensity of a cardiovascular workout.
A brake/inertia device may include an energy-storing member (e.g.,
a flywheel) that is coupled to a linkage or crank system to
increase inertia of the system. In some embodiments, a
brake/inertia device may provide for a variable load. In some
embodiments, a brake/inertia device may store energy provided by a
user during a portion of an exercise motion and then may provide at
least a portion of such stored energy back to the user during
another portion of the exercise motion.
[0055] Foot members 122 may be pivotally coupled to movable members
104. Foot members 122 may have footpads 124 or any other surface on
which a user may stand. Footpad 124 is typically any surface or
location on which a user's foot resides during use of an exercise
apparatus (e.g., the footpad may be a pad or a pedal on which the
user's foot resides during use). In some embodiments, footpad 124
may be a portion of foot member 122.
[0056] In certain embodiments, suspension links 126 and 128 may be
pivotally coupled to foot members 122 and to movable members 104.
Suspension links 126 and 128 may be pivotally coupled at point 130.
One end of spring 132 may be coupled to suspension links 126 and
128 at point 130. The second end of spring 132 may be coupled to
movable member 104.
[0057] Operation of suspension links 126 and 128 and spring 132 may
be understood by comparing depictions, as shown in FIG. 1, of the
right and left foot members 122, the right and left suspension
links 126 and 128, and the right and left springs 132 (i.e.,
comparing depictions of the right and left foot member assemblies).
As shown in FIG. 1, in the left foot member assembly, spring 132 is
applying force to suspension links 126 and 128 so that foot member
122 is forced upward relative to movable member 104. When a user of
the apparatus applies force to foot member 122, suspension links
126 and 128 may act to extend spring 132, thus providing a
resistive force to support the user. One advantage of a foot member
assembly with suspension links 126 and 128 and spring 132 is that
foot member 122 may feel progressively stiffer to a user as the
user moves the foot member downward. Foot member 122 may
essentially be supported by a non-linear resistive force provided
by suspension links 126 and 128 and spring 132 in which the
resistive force becomes greater (i.e., foot member 122 may feel
stiffer to a user) as the foot member nears a horizontal position.
Such a foot member assembly may provide similar footpad positions
at the end or beginning of a stride for users with varying body
weights and/or applied forces. Thus, such a designed exercise
apparatus may be used by a wide variety of users.
[0058] In some embodiments, a foot member assembly may include a
shock absorber. A shock absorber may be coupled to the same
coupling points as spring 132. For example, a shock absorber may be
coupled at point 130 and to movable member 104. A shock absorber
may be coupled adjacent to spring 132 or may be located inside the
spring.
[0059] As shown in FIG. 1, movable member 104 may be bent. In some
embodiments, however, movable member 104 may be straight, curved,
and/or include a bend. In certain embodiments, movable member 104
is made of a solid or unitary construction. In some embodiments,
movable member 104 may include multiple components coupled or
fastened to achieve a desired performance. Similarly, foot members
122 and arm links 108 may be straight, bent, or curved. Foot
members 122 and arm links 108 may be unitary or may include
multiple components.
[0060] In an embodiment, a user ascends the exercise apparatus,
stands on footpads 124 and initiates a walking or striding motion.
The right and left foot member assemblies support the weight of the
user. The weight of the user on footpads 124 combined with motion
of the footpads and foot members 122 causes motion of movable
members 104 and arm links 108. This motion in turn causes the
rotation of crank members 114, pulley device 116, and/or
brake/inertia device 118. Foot members 122 move with the user's
feet, and the foot member assemblies may accommodate the path and
pattern of the user's feet. An example of a path for a user's foot
is shown by path 134 in FIG. 1. Path 134 represents motion of a
user's toe during use of the exercise apparatus. The shape and/or
height of path 134 may be determined by how much a user's heel
rises during motion of the user's foot. In some embodiments, a
shape of path 134 may resemble a teardrop. A user may apply more
force to foot member 122 to reduce the height of the teardrop in
path 134 or may apply less force to the foot member to increase the
height of the path or teardrop. The path of the user's foot may
accurately simulate a walking, striding, and/or jogging motion.
[0061] FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment of a linkage assembly and drive
system for an exercise apparatus. A linkage assembly may include
one or more other components such as links, connectors, and/or
additional members that couple to and/or provide coupling between a
drive system and one or more arm links 108. In some embodiments, a
linkage assembly may include one link (e.g., crank link 112 shown
in FIG. 1).
[0062] In an embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, linkage assembly 136
may include crank links 112 and lever arms 138. Linkage assembly
136 may be directly attached to arm links 108 and to crank members
114. Lever arms 138 may be pivotally coupled to crank links 112. In
certain embodiments, lever arms 138 may be rigidly attached to arm
links 108. Rigidly attaching arm links 108 and lever arms 138 may
cause the arm links and the lever arms to rotate in unison during
use. In some embodiments, lever arms 138 may be coupled to arm
links 108 using a tube or other member to offset the lever arms
from the arm links. In certain embodiments, a drive system (e.g.,
the drive system depicted in FIG. 2) may be enclosed within a cover
or a shroud to protect one or more components of the drive system.
Longer crank links 112, as shown in FIG. 2, may reduce variations
in the angular velocity that occur during use of an exercise
apparatus.
[0063] FIGS. 3 and 4 depict an embodiment of a foot member and
movable member configuration. Foot member 122 may have a curved
shape as shown in FIG. 3. The curved portion of foot member 122 may
engage suspension belt 140. Each end of suspension belt 140 may be
coupled to movable member 104. In an embodiment, as foot member 122
moves downward, suspension belt 140 may be stretched. The profile
of the curved portion of foot member 122 may cause a greater rate
of stretch in suspension belt 140 as the foot member moves
downward. FIG. 4 depicts suspension belt 140 stretched by foot
member 122 in a downward position. Thus, suspension belt 140 may
provide a nonlinear resistive force to foot member 122 and a user
may feel a stiffer resistance as the foot member moves downward.
Friction between suspension belt 140 and foot member 122 may
provide damping force and/or shock absorption for movement of a
user's foot. In some embodiments, suspension belt 140 may be
coupled to a spring or to a rocker arm that is coupled to a
spring.
[0064] FIGS. 5 and 6 depict embodiments of a footpad and a movable
member configuration, in which footpad 124 is coupled to movable
member 104 without an intervening foot member. In FIG. 5, footpad
124 is coupled to movable member 104 such that the footpad may
pivot. Allowing footpad 124 to pivot (e.g., freely pivot) relative
to movable member 104 allows a user's foot to freely articulate
during rearward and forward motion of the foot.
[0065] FIG. 6 depicts an embodiment of footpad 124 directly mounted
on movable member 104. In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 6, a
user's foot may move in a reciprocating motion such that the user's
heel steadily rises relative to the user's toe, or the user's toe
steadily falls relative to the user's heel as the user's foot moves
rearward. Such reciprocating motion may more accurately simulate a
walking pattern in which a user's heel strikes the ground at the
front of a stride, the ball of the user's foot lowers to the
ground, and the user's heel lifts at the end of the stride, as
depicted in FIG. 7.
[0066] In an embodiment in which footpad 124 is directly mounted on
movable member 104, as shown in FIG. 6, a radius of curvature of
the footpad (line 142) may be lengthened and be moved rearward
relative to the radius of curvature of arm link 108 (line 144).
These radii may give rise to a desired foot motion during use of
the apparatus. In certain embodiments, the larger radius of
curvature of a footpad (line 142) may provide a more accurate
simulation of walking. Also, arm links 108 may be positioned in
front of the user, which allows for a narrower width for the
apparatus. In certain embodiments, similar advantages may be
available due to the relative radii of curvature of a footpad and
an arm link. For example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1,
similar advantages are available since the footpad is fully
extended downward during the weight-bearing portion of a
stride.
[0067] FIG. 8 depicts a side view of an embodiment of an exercise
apparatus. In the embodiment of FIG. 8, the foot member assemblies
and arm links 108 operate similarly to those in the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 8, belt 146 may be attached to
axle 148 of wheel 106. Belt 146 may wrap around pulley 150. Pulley
150 may be a unidirectional pulley. Pulley 150 may be coupled to
(e.g., mounted on) drive shaft 152. An overrunning clutch may be
used to couple pulley 150 to drive shaft 152. Belt 146 may wrap
over the top of pulley 150 and wrap around idler 154. Near the back
of the apparatus, belt 146 may wrap around idler 156.
[0068] Belt 146 may form a continuous loop, as shown in FIG. 9. In
certain embodiments, pulleys 150 may be mounted on overrunning
clutches. Mounting pulleys 150 on overrunning clutches allows
unidirectional rotation of shaft 152 and brake/inertia device 118
due to the alternating linear motion of belt 146. In some
embodiments, drive shaft 152 may be vertically oriented, as shown
in FIG. 10. In certain embodiments, vertically oriented drive shaft
152 may allow more efficient packaging of mechanical
components.
[0069] As indicated by the dashed lines in FIG. 8, the vertical
stalk of frame 100 may be designed to fold down for storage and/or
shipment. Rotating joint 158 may be locked within locking knob 160
in a vertically oriented position. Locking knob 160 may be
disengaged to allow the vertical stalk of frame 100 to be rotated
downward toward a position indicated by the dashed lines. Such a
design of the vertical stalk of frame 100 may also be included in
other embodiments of exercise apparatus (e.g., the embodiment
depicted in FIG. 1).
[0070] FIGS. 11-18 depict schematic representations of various
embodiments of exercise apparatus that may allow motion of a user's
feet similar to motion allowed by the embodiments depicted in FIGS.
1 and 8 (e.g., reciprocating motion). Several embodiments are
depicted herein as schematics to simplify discussion of pertinent
features. Such depictions may not include one or more features that
may be present in a fully functioning exercise apparatus. For
example, only the right side foot member, footpad, movable member,
arm link, and/or other selected components of the apparatus may be
shown. In some embodiments, no pulley, belt, and/or brake/inertia
system may be shown. In some embodiments, no right and left side
cross coupling system may be shown. In some embodiments, one or
more members in an apparatus may be straight, may be curved, may be
unitary, or may be composed of multiple pieces.
[0071] FIG. 11 depicts a representation of the basic embodiment of
the exercise apparatus depicted in FIGS. 1 and 8. FIG. 12 depicts a
representation of embodiments in which movable member 104 is
non-straight and/or wheel 106 may be located at any position along
the movable member. FIG. 13 depicts a representation of embodiments
in which rail 102 may be non-straight.
[0072] FIG. 14 depicts a representation of embodiments in which
movable member 104 may include more than one piece. The pieces of
movable member 104 may be pivotally coupled. In some embodiments,
more than one wheel 106 may be located on movable member 104.
[0073] FIG. 15 depicts a representation of embodiments in which
reciprocating motion may be accomplished without the use of a wheel
and a rail. In certain embodiments, arm link 108 may include more
than one piece (e.g., multiple links) that may perform the function
of the arm link, as shown in FIGS. 15, 17, and 18. A drive system
may be coupled to one or more of the multiple links used to
function as an arm link.
[0074] FIG. 16 depicts a representation of embodiments in which arm
link 108 may be actuated by a system other than a pivotal coupling
at point 110. As depicted in FIG. 16, arm link 108 may be allowed
to slide within pivoting collar 162.
[0075] FIG. 17 depicts a representation of embodiments in which
footpad 124 is rigidly mounted to movable member 104. In certain
embodiments, progressive stiffness suspension system 164 may be
included in the exercise apparatus. FIG. 18 depicts a
representation of embodiments in which desired suspension system
operations may be achieved with sliding elements 166.
[0076] In certain embodiments, a linkage assembly may include one
or more adjustable components. Including adjustable components in a
linkage assembly may allow for adjustment or variation of a user's
stride length. Allowing adjustment or variation of a user's stride
length in an exercise apparatus may provide an exercise apparatus
that can accommodate a wider range of body weights and/or physical
characteristics (e.g., a user's height or stride length). Allowing
variable stride length may allow the path of the user's foot more
accurately simulate a walking, striding, and/or jogging motion.
[0077] FIG. 19 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an adjustable linkage assembly. In an embodiment, linkage assembly
136 may include lever arms 138, crank links 112, slider assembly
168, servomotor 170, and lead screw 172. Lever arms 138 may be
pivotally coupled to crank links 112. In certain embodiments, lever
arms 138 may be pivotally coupled to crank links 112 through slider
assembly 168. Crank links 112 may be pivotally coupled to crank
members 114. Crank members 114 may drive pulley device 116, which
in turn may drive brake/inertia device 118 using belt 120.
[0078] During use of the apparatus, slider assembly 168 may move
with lever arm 138 at a fixed position along the lever arm. In some
embodiments, slider assembly 168 may be movable back and forth
along lever arm 138. The moving or repositioning of slider assembly
168 allows the slider assembly to be selectively positioned along
the length of lever arm 138 such that the stride length for a user
may be varied. For example, if slider assembly 168 is moved away
from point 110 along lever arm 138, the angle of rotation of arm
link 108 induced by the rotation of crank member 114 is reduced.
This reduction of the angle of rotation of arm link 108 results in
a reduced stride length for the user.
[0079] Sliding motion of slider assembly 168 may be controllable,
for example, by use of servomotor 170 and lead screw 172. In
certain embodiments, servomotor 170 may be electrically coupled to
controller 174. Controller 174 may include controls to adjust the
location of slider assembly 168 using servomotor 170. Controller
174 may include a display for the user of the apparatus. A user may
adjust the stride length of the apparatus by using controller 174
to activate servomotor 170. Activation of servomotor 170 rotates
lead screw 172, which repositions slider assembly 168 and adjusts
the stride length.
[0080] In some embodiments, a position of slider assembly 168 along
lever arm 138 may be manually repositioned. For example, a user may
move slider assembly 168 and lock the slider assembly in place
using a retractable pin or a threaded knob to adjust the stride
length of the apparatus.
[0081] FIGS. 20-23 depict schematic representations of various
embodiments of exercise apparatus that may allow adjustable stride
length similarly to the embodiment depicted in FIG. 19. For
simplicity, only lever arm 138 of linkage assembly 136 is shown in
FIGS. 20-23.
[0082] In certain embodiments, a user may be allowed to
"instantaneously" or "dynamically" adjust his/hers stride length.
The user may essentially be allowed to instantaneously or
dynamically change his/her stride length by imparting variable
forces to foot members 122 or footpads 124. The user may
selectively impart forces (e.g., at a beginning or an end of a
stride) that vary the stride length and allow more accurate
simulation of a walking, striding, and/or jogging motion.
[0083] FIG. 24 depicts an embodiment of an exercise apparatus with
an instantaneously variable length linkage assembly. In an
embodiment, linkage assembly 136 may include lever arms 138, crank
links 112, pivoting ends 176, and spring 178. Lever arms 138 may be
pivotally coupled to crank links 112. In certain embodiments, lever
arms 138 may include pivoting ends 176. Pivoting ends 176 may be
pivotally coupled to crank links 112. Pivoting end 176 may be an
extension of lever arm 138. Pivoting end 176 may operate to control
an effective length of lever arm 138. Effective length 179 of lever
arm 138 may be a length of the lever arm from point 110 to a point
at the intersection of the longitudinal axis of the lever arm and
the longitudinal axis of crank link 112.
[0084] Crank links 112 may be pivotally coupled to crank members
114. Crank members 114 may drive pulley device 116, which in turn
may drive brake/inertia device 118 using belt 120.
[0085] FIG. 25 depicts an embodiment for operation of pivoting end
176. Pivoting end 176 may be coupled to lever arm 138 at point 180.
Spring 178 may be coupled to lever arm 138 and pivoting end 176
such that the spring creates a resistive force opposing rotation of
the pivoting end about point 180.
[0086] In certain embodiments, a user's stride length may be
instantaneously varied by the user applying force to the apparatus
through arm links 108 and/or foot members 122. As the user applies
force to the apparatus through arm links 108 and/or foot members
122, pivoting end 176 may deflect (e.g., instantaneously or
dynamically deflect) relative to lever arm 138. As pivoting end 176
moves (e.g., rotates), the pivoting end may change effective length
179 of lever arm 138, as shown in FIG. 25. Thus a length of linkage
assembly 136 may be varied as the user applies force to the
apparatus. Deflection of pivoting end 176 may allow a position of
foot member 122 to vary from a position the foot member would have
if lever arm 138 was a rigid member without a pivoting end. Thus, a
user's stride length may be varied even though a diameter of crank
members 114 is predetermined and fixed. In certain embodiments,
spring 178 may provide a resistive force that varies as pivoting
end 176 is deflected.
[0087] In some embodiments, instantaneous deflection of pivoting
ends 176 may occur when inertial forces act on the apparatus. For
example, as movable member 104 is decelerated at the end of either
its forward or rearward motion, the inertial (e.g., deceleration)
force may be transmitted through pivoting end 176. With the
transmitted deceleration force, pivoting end 176 may deflect and
result in a lengthened stride for the user due to a change in the
length of linkage assembly 136. Inertial forces increase as the
operating speed of the apparatus increases. Thus, a user's stride
length may increase with operating speed of the apparatus.
[0088] In some embodiments, right and left side linkage systems
(e.g., foot members 122, arm links 108, and/or movable members 104)
may be cross coupled so that they move in direct and constant
opposition to one another. This movement may be accomplished with a
continuous belt or cable loop, as shown in FIG. 24. Belt 182 may be
a continuous loop supported and constrained by idler pulleys 184.
Idler pulleys 184 may be located at either end of frame 100. Belt
182 may be coupled to movable members 104 at points 186. In certain
embodiments, belt 182 is configured in a continuous loop coupled to
the right side foot member and the left side foot member, thus
causing the right and left foot members to move in direct and
constant opposition to one another. The geometry of a linkage
system (which may include foot members 122, wheels 106, movable
members 104, crank members 114, and/or arm links 108) may be such
that the belt system (including belt 182 and idler pulleys 184)
must accommodate either a change in pitch length or a change in
distance between idler pulley centers. If the change in pitch
length is slight, the change may be accommodated by belt stretch.
In some embodiments, one of the idler pulleys may be mounted using
a spring tensioning system so that the distance between idler
pulley centers may increase or decrease slightly during linkage
system operation while maintaining tension in the belt system.
[0089] FIGS. 26 and 27 depict embodiments of exercise apparatus
with instantaneously variable length linkage assemblies. In certain
embodiments, linkage assembly 136 may include crank links 112
and/or lever arms 138. In the embodiment of FIG. 26, crank link 112
may be pivotally coupled directly to arm link 108 at point 188. In
the embodiment of FIG. 27, lever arm 138 may be rigid and pivotally
coupled to crank link 112. In certain embodiments (e.g., the
embodiments depicted in FIGS. 26 and 27), crank link 112 may be a
telescoping member that is variable in length. A change in length
of crank link 112 changes a length of linkage assembly 136.
Telescoping movement of crank link 112 may be resisted by element
190. Element 190 may be a spring element, a damper element, or a
combination spring/damper element. Element 190 may provide a
resistive force that varies as the length of crank link 112
changes. The telescoping movement of crank link 112 may allow
variable stride length due to user applied forces and/or inertial
forces as described above.
[0090] FIGS. 28-31 depict schematic representations of various
embodiments of exercise apparatus that may provide instantaneously
variable stride length as in the embodiments depicted in FIGS. 24,
26, and 27. For simplicity, only lever arm 138 of linkage assembly
136 is shown in FIGS. 28-31.
[0091] In this patent, certain U.S. patents, U.S. patent
applications, and other materials (e.g., articles) have been
incorporated by reference. The text of such U.S. patents, U.S.
patent applications, and other materials is, however, only
incorporated by reference to the extent that no conflict exists
between such text and the other statements and drawings set forth
herein. In the event of such conflict, then any such conflicting
text in such incorporated by reference U.S. patents, U.S. patent
applications, and other materials is specifically not incorporated
by reference in this patent.
[0092] Further modifications and alternative embodiments of various
aspects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the
art in view of this description. Accordingly, this description is
to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of
teaching those skilled in the art the general manner of carrying
out the invention. It is to be understood that the forms of the
invention shown and described herein are to be taken as the
presently preferred embodiments. Elements and materials may be
substituted for those illustrated and described herein, parts and
processes may be reversed, and certain features of the invention
may be utilized independently, all as would be apparent to one
skilled in the art after having the benefit of this description of
the invention. Changes may be made in the elements described herein
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as
described in the following claims.
* * * * *