U.S. patent application number 11/181647 was filed with the patent office on 2005-11-10 for elliptical exercise device and arm linkage.
Invention is credited to Corbalis, Kevin P., Goh, Yong Ming, Rufino, John C..
Application Number | 20050250621 11/181647 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34682058 |
Filed Date | 2005-11-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050250621 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Corbalis, Kevin P. ; et
al. |
November 10, 2005 |
Elliptical exercise device and arm linkage
Abstract
An exercise trainer with a stride multiplier mounted on a base
having crank arms rotationally supported on the base with foot
links connected to the crank arms at one end and supported for
movement distally from the crank arms. Foot pedals are respectively
supported for longitudinal movement on the foot links with a
flexible connection between the foot pedals and a ground connection
on the base and the foot links to provide a generally elliptical
movement of the foot pedals. Pivotal levers having at least one
portion connected for movement with the foot links are connected to
the foot links by a pivotal connection. The pivotal levers have an
upper portion with handles and a lower portion with at least a
portion that can be disengaged from movement with the foot
links.
Inventors: |
Corbalis, Kevin P.; (Tustin,
CA) ; Rufino, John C.; (Fallbrook, CA) ; Goh,
Yong Ming; (Rancho Santa Margarita, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
KNOBBE MARTENS OLSON & BEAR LLP
2040 MAIN STREET
FOURTEENTH FLOOR
IRVINE
CA
92614
US
|
Family ID: |
34682058 |
Appl. No.: |
11/181647 |
Filed: |
July 14, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11181647 |
Jul 14, 2005 |
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10173775 |
Jun 18, 2002 |
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10173775 |
Jun 18, 2002 |
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09740445 |
Dec 19, 2000 |
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6575877 |
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09740445 |
Dec 19, 2000 |
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09249189 |
Feb 12, 1999 |
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6183398 |
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60093927 |
Jul 23, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 ;
482/70 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2022/206 20130101;
A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B 2022/067 20130101; A63B 22/001
20130101; A63B 2208/0233 20130101; A63B 2022/0676 20130101; A63B
21/0053 20130101; A63B 2022/0682 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101;
A63B 21/225 20130101; A63B 22/0007 20130101; A63B 21/0051
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/052 ;
482/070 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/04; A63B
069/18 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An exercise trainer with a stride multiplier comprising a base
having a ground connection, first and second crank arms
rotationally supported on said base, first and second foot links
connected respectively to said first and second crank arms at one
end and supported for movement distally from said crank arms, first
and second foot pedals respectively supported for longitudinal
movement on said first and second foot links, a connection between
said foot pedals and said ground connection and interconnected with
said foot links so that said foot links, when moved in supported
relationship with said crank arms, provide a generally elliptical
movement of said foot pedals, and two arm levers pivotally mounted
relative to said frame.
2. The exercise trainer of claim 1, wherein at least one portion of
each of said two arm levers is connected to said corresponding foot
link.
3. The exercise trainer of claim 2, wherein said two arm levers are
connected to said corresponding foot links by a pivotal
connection.
4. The exercise trainer of claim 1 further comprising a support for
said two arm levers connected to said frame to allow pivotal
movement of said two arm levers relative to said frame.
5. The exercise trainer of claim 4, wherein each of said two arm
levers has an upper portion and a lower portion, said upper
portions being disposed above said support and said lower portions
being disposed below said support.
6. The exercise trainer of claim 1, wherein each of said two arm
levers has a handle connected to a portion thereof and said portion
connected to said handle can be disconnected from said foot link
such that movement of said handle can be isolated from movement of
said foot link.
7. An exercise trainer comprising a base, a first crank arm and a
second crank arm mounted on said base at different relative angular
orientations from each other, first and second foot links
respectively connected to said first and second crank arms, a
bearing surface on said base positioned away from said crank arms,
said bearing surface supporting said foot links for reciprocal
movement relative to said base, a foot pedal mounted on each of
said foot links for reciprocal movement with respect to said
corresponding foot link, a linkage between said foot pedals and
said foot links, said base comprising a mount at which said linkage
can be secured to a fixed portion of said base such that, during
movement of said foot links, movement of said foot pedals relative
to said base is created which is greater than twice the length of a
crank arm, and arm levers that are moveably connected to said foot
links.
8. The exercise trainer of claim 7, wherein each of said arm levers
are mounted for pivotal movement on said base between an upper and
lower portion of each of said arm levers.
9. The exercise trainer of claim 8, wherein each of said arm levers
has a handle portion on the upper portion of said arm lever and
wherein said lower portion is pivotally mounted to said
corresponding foot link.
10. The exercise trainer of claim 9, wherein each of said arm
levers has a locking portion for engaging and disengaging at least
a portion of each of said arm levers from movement.
11. The exercise trainer of claim 10, wherein said locking portion
can disengage said upper portion of said arm lever from said lower
portion for storage while said lower portion of said arm lever is
capable of movement with said corresponding foot link.
12. The exercise trainer of claim 11 further comprising a latch for
securing said upper portions of said arm levers when they are
disengaged from said lower portions.
13. An exercise trainer comprising a first foot link and a second
foot link, said first and second foot links being connected and
supported for opposing reciprocal movement, a support comprising a
bearing surface on which a portion of said first and second foot
links rests for movement and support so as to allow said foot links
to reciprocate relative to said support, a first foot pedal mounted
on said first foot link and a second foot pedal mounted on said
second foot link, a first connecting member connected between said
first foot link and said first foot pedal and a second connecting
member connected between said second foot link and said second foot
pedal, a ground connection connected to said first and second
connecting members to assist movement of said foot pedals on said
corresponding foot links in a modified elliptical path, and an arm
lever connected to each of said foot links, said arm lever
providing a location for grasping by a user of said exercise
trainer.
14. The exercise trainer of claim 13, wherein each of said arm
levers is pivotally connected at a lower portion to said
corresponding foot link and has a pivotal connection to said frame
located remotely from said corresponding foot link.
15. The exercise trainer of claim 13 further comprising means for
disconnecting from said corresponding foot link at least a portion
of each of said arm levers such that said portion can remain
generally motionless while said corresponding foot link
reciprocates.
16. The exercise trainer of claim 15 further comprising means for
securing said arm levers when they have been disconnected from
movement of said foot links.
17. An exercise trainer comprising a first crank arm and a second
crank arm, said first and second crank arms being supported on a
frame for rotational movement, a first foot link connected to said
first crank arm and a second foot link connected to said second
crank arm, a first foot receiving member and a second foot
receiving member respectively connected for movement on said first
foot link and said second foot link, a linkage between said first
and second foot links and said first and second foot receiving
members interconnecting them to a stationary point to cause said
first and second foot receiving members to reciprocally move on
said first and second foot links in relative displacement with
respect to said stationary point and a first arm lever and a second
arm lever connected for movement with a corresponding one of said
first and second foot links.
18. The exercise trainer of claim 17, wherein each of said arm
levers has an upper portion and a lower portion with a pivotal
support connected to said frame between said upper and lower
portions.
19. The exercise trainer of claim 17 further comprising means for
disconnecting said arm levers from movement of said foot links.
20. The exercise trainer of claim 19 further comprising means for
securing said arm levers when they have been disconnected from
movement of said foot links.
21. An exercise trainer comprising a first crank arm and a second
crank arm supported on a frame for rotational movement, a first
foot receiving member and a second foot receiving member mounted on
linkages connected to said crank arms, a flexible member
interconnecting said foot receiving members to a ground point and
arm levers connected to said linkages such that said arm levers
move when said foot receiving members move.
22. The exercise trainer of claim 21, wherein said arm levers are
pivotally connected to said linkages.
23. The exercise trainer of claim 22 further comprising means for
disconnecting at least a portion of each of said arm levers from
said linkages such that said portions of said arm levers are
generally stationary while said linkages are moving.
24. An exercise trainer comprising a first crank arm and a second
crank arm supported on a frame for rotational movement, a first
linkage and a second linkage connected to said corresponding crank
arm for reciprocal movement with respect to said frame, a first
foot receiving member and a second foot receiving member mounted on
said corresponding linkage interconnected between said frame and
said linkages by a flexible member to permit a degenerated
elliptical movement of said foot receiving members when said
linkages are reciprocated, and arm levers moveably connected with
said linkages.
25. The exercise trainer of claim 24, wherein said arm levers are
pivotally connected to said linkages.
26. The exercise trainer of claim 24 further comprising means for
disconnecting at least a portion of said arm levers from movement
of said linkages.
27. The exercise trainer of claim 26 further comprising means for
securing said portion of said arm levers when they have been
disconnected from movement of said linkages.
28. The exercise trainer of claim 27, wherein said linkages
comprise foot links connected to said crank arms at one end and
supported by a bearing surface at a second end and wherein said
foot receiving members are mounted on said foot links for
reciprocal movement with respect to said foot links.
29. An exercise trainer as claimed in claim 28, wherein said
flexible member interconnects said linkages and said foot receiving
members in connected relationship to a fixed point on said frame so
as said linkages are moved, they urge the flexible member to move
said foot receiving members on said foot linkages in a reciprocal
manner on said foot linkages.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.
No. 10/173,775 filed Jun. 18, 2002, which is a continuation-in-part
of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/740,445, filed Dec. 19, 2000 and
issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,575,877 on Jun. 10, 2002, which is a
continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/249,189, filed Feb.
12, 1999 and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 6,183,398 on Feb. 6, 2001,
which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/093,927, filed Jul. 23, 1998.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention pertains to an exercise apparatus which is in
the form of a trainer that provides a simulated walking or running
stride with arm linkages for upper body training. The trainer of
this invention falls within the field of exercise devices such as
stepping machines, simulated cross country ski machines, stationary
bicycles, and arm and shoulder drives as well as other types of
exercise trainers. It more particularly relates to those types of
exercise trainers within the art and background related to pedals
that can be reciprocated as attached to a pair of cranks to provide
for a simulated walking or running motion. It also includes arm
linkages similar to poles or movable levers which provide a push
and pull arrangement. In particular, it relates to those training
and exercise devices which approximate an elliptical motion with
respect to a user's foot movements along with arm linkages for push
and pull movement.
[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art
[0005] Exercise and training devices come in many forms. As is
generally known, such exercise devices can include stationary
bicycles such as those of the reclining and vertical type. Further
to this extent, there are such devices that are simulated stepping
machines which allow one to step upwardly and downwardly to
simulate a climbing of stairs. Also well known are treadmills that
simulate running, jogging, and walking vigorously.
[0006] There are other well known devices that not only include
cycling but also efforts related to treadmill workouts.
[0007] Treadmills generally permit a user to walk, jog or run on a
stationary machine. However, they are considered impact devices
which in some cases are not as beneficial to the user as for
example a low impact device such as a bicycle whether it be a
reclining or vertical bicycle or such stepping machines as are
known in the art.
[0008] There are exercise trainers that are currently known in the
art that simulate a running, walking, or jogging effort on a pair
of pedals. These pedals are physically connected to cranks that are
under a load.
[0009] It is preferable, that such exercise trainers have their
pedals trace a path approximating an ellipse or what can be
considered as a modified elliptical path. One of the drawbacks of
such modified elliptical paths is that the major axis of the path
is limited to being shorter than twice the crank's length. This is
due to the fact that the axis of the crank as it turns a wheel or
other device when considered with the axis of the connection at the
end of the crank limits the overall stroke distance which forms the
major axis of the modified elliptical path to that distance minus
the axial orientations.
[0010] For example to achieve a sixteen inch length in the major
axis of an elliptical like trainer, such cranks of a trainer need
to have a longer crank length than half the length which would be
eight inches. This takes into account the journaling and bearing
mountings. From a practical standpoint in order to provide a
sixteen inch length of the major axis of the modified elliptical
path, a nine inch long crank must be utilized to provide
approximately an eighteen inch diameter circle.
[0011] When the foregoing translates to the diameter of the wheel
or disk under load that is being driven, it creates a significantly
high pedal step up. In effect, to move or run at a sixteen inch
stride even with such a large diameter disk or wheel utilizing the
nine inch long crank shaft, the effect is that of a diminished step
that could be analogized to a "baby step". It has been found in the
past that this did not provide sufficient aerobic effort nor
provide for enough hip flexure to maximize a cardiovascular workout
through the leg, hip, quadriceps, and other muscle portions of the
body.
[0012] Much of the prior art relies upon foot pedals that rigidly
attach to foot links. These foot links are generally in connected
relationship to the ends of the cranks. Usually there is little or
no relative motion between the foot pedals and the foot links. This
serves to limit the major axis as to the length of the major axis
of the modified elliptical path inscribed by the foot pedal.
[0013] In order to overcome the deficiencies of the prior art, this
invention utilizes a unique relative motion concept with respect to
the foot links and the foot pedals. The invention in order to
accomplish this, utilizes a foot pedal mounted with rollers on the
foot link. The foot pedals are oriented with the foot links by
means of these rollers which travel in a concave channel along the
length of the foot link. This traveling of the rollers in the
concave channels allows relative motion when the foot pedal has
been maintained by a relationship to a ground or non-moving
portion. The foot pedal moves in relationship to a fixed or
grounded area such as to the frame.
[0014] In order to maintain this relative movement relationship, a
flexible belt like element that can be in the form of a belt,
chain, cable, or other member allows the foot pedal to slide
relative to the foot link as the foot link reciprocates backwardly
and forwardly. In effect, the flexible member pulls the foot pedal
relative to the foot link in the direction of foot link travel. The
net effect is to increase the stride length by a factor of four.
The normal relative movement would be two times the crank
length.
[0015] The net result of the foregoing is to create a movement
whereby the foot links with the flexible member when moving
backwardly cause a pulling of the foot pedals backwardly along the
length of the foot link. This creates a stride with a modified
elliptical motion while at the same time maintaining a small crank
diameter such that the major axis of the modified ellipse is four
times the length of the crank.
[0016] In addition to the foregoing elliptical movement, this
invention provides arm linkages, levers, or poles which enhance an
upper body workout. The levers or poles extend upwardly from the
operating apparatus of the elliptical exerciser. These upwardly
extending poles or levers allow one to grasp them and move them in
a reciprocating manner. The foregoing reciprocating movement allows
for an exercise movement which drives the respective linkages,
levers, or poles in concert with the foot pedals. Thus, action with
regard to leg and foot movement is enhanced with an upper body
workout utilizing the poles or levers which are held in one's
hands.
[0017] The foregoing allows for pushing and pulling movement that
can drive the mechanical apparatus and device from the linkages or
levers connected to a flywheel or other load. This allows for
pushing and pulling movement so that upper body exercise through
the shoulders, arms, and thorax is enhanced while at the same time
providing for elliptical foot driven movement.
[0018] As will be seen hereinafter, this invention is a significant
step over the art and can be modified by various belt or flexible
member orientations with regard to the ground and the flexible
member as well as the movement of the foot link, and arm linkages.
The arm linkages or levers can be engaged or disengaged. This
allows exercise of the upper and lower body or merely the lower
body all with one piece of equipment.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] In summation, this invention comprises an exercise trainer
having a load applied to a rotational disk or wheel connected to
cranks which are in turn connected to a pair of foot links having
foot pedals which are provided with relative movement to multiply
the distance which the foot links move through a relative movement
of the foot pedals in relationship to the foot links, with the
inclusion of arm linkages, levers, or poles to also provide an
upper body workout.
[0020] More specifically, the invention incorporates a pair of foot
links which are supported on rollers at one end for reciprocating
movement thereon. At the other end, the foot links are attached to
a pair of cranks. Each respective crank has a bearing for
attachment of the foot links for rotational movement with regard to
the cranks as journaled thereon. The cranks are connected to a
wheel or disk. The wheel or disk is in turn connected to a loading
device which can be in the form of a mechanical load, such as a
brake applied to the wheel, or in the alternative, and preferably,
an electro-mechanical load such as an alternator. The alternator
can have its output connected to a resistance bank which in turn
can be a variable resistance bank to change the load on the
alternator and the attendant wheel and disk and attached
cranks.
[0021] Each foot link is formed as an extrusion having channels
therein and an open center tunnel or passage portion. The channels
are such where they can support and guide the foot pedals on
rollers. Further to this extent, the channels also provide for a
movement on rollers at a distal end from the crank arms. The
channels in effect, allow the rollers to be engaged internally and
support the foot link as it reciprocates backwardly and forwardly
on the rollers in a reciprocating and at the same time a pivoting
manner thereon.
[0022] The entire trainer is supported on an underlying frame.
Attached to the frame is a ground point which extends upwardly into
the central cross-sectioned tunnel area of the foot link. The
ground point can extend from a post or columnar support or other
means through the cross-sectional area of the foot link which is
cut away in the form of an elongated slot. The ground point allows
for attachment of a flexible member in a fixed grounded
relationship. The flexible member is comprised of a belt, chain,
cable, or other means to allow the relative movement of the foot
link to pull the foot pedal or drive it backwardly as the foot link
oscillates in a reciprocal movement.
[0023] The foregoing reciprocal oscillating movement of the foot
link accommodates the flexible member by having the flexible member
looped and carried as a continuous member around two support
pulleys at either end. The support pulleys allow for the flexible
member to move around them and at the same time be driven by the
foot link.
[0024] Attached to the foot pedal is an anchor bar or other
structural anchoring means to which the flexible member is attached
in a fixed manner. The flexible member is also anchored to the
frame to form a fixed location relative to motion of the foot
pedal. In this manner, as the foot link reciprocates backwardly, it
tends to drive the flexible member in relative movement internally
of the cross-sectional tunnel area pulling the foot pedal at the
flexible member anchoring point or anchor bar. The foregoing
relative motion provides for a doubling motion to increase the
reciprocal movement of the foot pedal to four times that of what
would normally be the distance of the crank length.
[0025] In order to provide for upper body exercise movements, this
invention also incorporates a pair of linkages, levers, or poles.
The linkages, levers, or poles are pivotally connected to a pivot
point for reciprocal movement. The pivot point can be between
either end thereof to allow for pivoting movement.
[0026] At one end are a pair of handles which the user grips. At
the other end, a flexible pivotal linkage is connected to the foot
links. This pivotal connection to the foot links allows for
reciprocal movement of the linkages, arms, or levers backwardly and
forwardly. The handles of the levers when pushing or pulling allow
for movement around the pivot point and pivotal movement as
attached to the foot links. As the foot links move backwardly and
forwardly, the levers move in a reciprocating pivotal manner.
[0027] The foregoing allows for an upper body push/pull activity
upon the part of a user. The user can push and pull with the drive
thus driving the foot links through an arm motion in a pushing and
pulling manner. This can be used as a heavily engaged pushing and
pulling action upon the part of the user or in concert to a lesser
degree with the movement of the foot pedals on the foot links. The
foregoing thus provides for a smooth reciprocating lever action
upon the part of a user so that upper body pushing and pulling
movement can be incorporated with the movement of the foot links
and the foot pedals attached thereto.
[0028] In addition to the foregoing features, the levers which are
gripped and used for pushing and pulling action can be placed in an
inoperative, stored, or disconnected mode. This allows for the
levers to be disconnected for movement and canted or moved toward
an unobstructing stored relationship. In this manner, the user has
the option of driving the foot links solely with the foot pedals or
engaging the levers and using a combination of foot pedal effort
and upper body effort.
[0029] The foregoing allows engagement or disengagement of the arm
levers or linkages. Thus, the utilization of the equipment is
enhanced as either a lower body workout apparatus or a combination
upper body and lower body workout apparatus.
[0030] Alternative embodiments of this invention also incorporate
extended flexible member features whereby the flexible member can
be looped around multiple rollers connected to the foot link so as
to allow the reciprocal movement to be multiplied by a factor of
six or eight times the crank length. Also, various apparatus can be
used to limit the movement of the flexible member below its total
length of reciprocation so that it can be diminished.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0031] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of the exercise trainer of
this invention with the moving elements connected to a stand which
can be used to support the arms of a user.
[0032] FIG. 2 shows a side elevation view of the exercise trainer
of this invention with super-imposed movements of the foot links
traveling through a reciprocal movement providing the respective
foot pedal orientations as shown.
[0033] FIG. 3 shows a fragmented partially sectioned view of the
foot link of this invention with the foot pedal connected thereto
incorporating the flexible member that causes the foot pedal to be
moved in relative movement to the foot link.
[0034] FIG. 4 shows a foot link and foot pedal in the form of a
perspective side view.
[0035] FIG. 5 shows a view looking upwardly at the foot link and
foot pedal in a perspective view whereby the ground point is shown
extending through a slot within the foot link.
[0036] FIG. 6 shows an end view of the foot link as seen in the
direction of lines 6-6 of FIG. 4.
[0037] FIG. 7 shows a sectional view of the foot pedal and roller
supports as sectioned along lines 7-7 of FIG. 3.
[0038] FIG. 8 shows an end view of the foot pedal as sectioned and
seen in the direction of lines 8-8 of FIG. 3.
[0039] FIG. 9 shows a mid-line sectional view of the foot link and
foot pedal starting from a level position with the crank arm fully
extended forwardly.
[0040] FIG. 10 shows a mid-line sectional view of the foot link and
the foot pedal with the crank arm in its lowered position.
[0041] FIG. 11 shows a mid-line sectional view of the foot link and
foot pedal with the crank arm in its rearward extended position and
the foot link relatively flat.
[0042] FIG. 12 shows a mid-line sectional view of the foot link and
foot pedal with the crank arm in its full upright position.
[0043] FIG. 13 shows a fragmented perspective view with the support
frame broken away to detail the end rollers which support the foot
link as well as the pulley upon which the flexible member is
wrapped around.
[0044] FIG. 14 shows a perspective fragmented broken away view of
the rollers that support the foot link with the flexible member
having a spring member inter-connected therewith.
[0045] FIG. 15 shows a sectional view of the rear support rollers
supporting the foot link as sectioned along lines 15-15 of FIG.
1.
[0046] FIG. 16 shows a sectional view of a flexible member which
can extend the crank length for reciprocating movement by a factor
of just under six.
[0047] FIG. 17 shows a sectional view of a flexible member which
can extend the crank length for reciprocating movement by a factor
of just under eight.
[0048] FIG. 18 shows a perspective view of the exercise device of
this invention with the inclusion of the upper body levers
connected to the foot linkages.
[0049] FIG. 19 shows a fragmented side view of the movement of the
upper body levers being reciprocated.
[0050] FIG. 20 shows a similar side view to FIG. 19 with the upper
body levers displaced into a position beyond that shown in FIG.
19.
[0051] FIG. 21 is a similar fragmented view to FIGS. 19 and 20
showing further movement of the upper body levers.
[0052] FIG. 22 shows a similar side elevation fragmented showing of
FIGS. 19, 20, and 21 with the upper body levers in a further
articulated movement and displaced relationship.
[0053] FIG. 23 shows a fragmented perspective view of a detailed
showing of the disconnecting and connecting fixture for providing
engagement and disengagement of the upper body linkages or levers
in the connected format.
[0054] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of the upper body linkage
or lever connecting fixture of FIG. 23 in the disconnected or
disengaged format.
[0055] FIG. 25 shows a second embodiment of a disconnection and
connection fixture for disengaging and engaging the levers or upper
body linkages from movement with the foot links, with the left side
lever being disconnected.
[0056] FIG. 26 shows a sectional fragmented view through a portion
of the showing of FIG. 25 detailing the disconnecting and
connecting features.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0057] Looking more particularly at FIG. 1, which is a perspective
view showing the exercise trainer of this invention, it can be seen
that a frame 10 is generally shown having a longitudinal base
member 12. The longitudinal base member 12 terminates at an end
portion 14 forming a T shaped cross member at the rear thereof.
[0058] At the front, a pair of angular cross members 16 and 18 are
shown. These angular cross members 16 and 18 are welded to the
longitudinal frame member 12. Angular cross members 16 and 18 have
leveling pads 20 on either side. The leveling pad of cross member
18 is hidden from view but is identically placed as the leveling
pad 20 of cross member 16. These tend to level and orient the frame
10 and the attendant exerciser supported thereon.
[0059] In order to support the foot links at the rear, an inverted
U shaped frame 22 is provided. The inverted U shaped frame member
22 has a horizontal portion and two depending portions 24 and 26.
These vertical or upright portions 24 and 26 respectively terminate
in a pair of box extension frame members 28 and 30. The respective
box extension frame members 28 and 30 are welded or suitably bolted
to the longitudinal member 12 to provide stability to the entire
frame 10.
[0060] Welded to the horizontal portion of the U shaped frame 22 is
the main support roller bracket 198, containing main support
rollers 190 and 192.
[0061] Welded to and extending from the upright portions 24 and 26
are the left and right grounding shafts 138 supports 38 and 40. The
grounding shaft supports 38 and 40 respectively extend inwardly in
a lateral manner from the uprights 24 and 26. These extending
inwardly oriented members 38 and 40 are such wherein they provide a
ground for the flexible member. The ground extends from members 38
and 40 down through the uprights 24 and 26 to the base of the frame
as leveled and set upon the leveling pads 32 and 34.
[0062] In order to provide for a level orientation, the cross
members 28 and 30 respectively have leveling pads 32 and 34. These
allow for leveling of the entire frame comprising cross members 16,
18 and 30 and 32 along with the terminal T shaped portion 14.
[0063] Connected to the front of the longitudinal member 12 is a
pair of rollers 42 which is journaled with a pin 44 so that the
frame 10 in its entirety can be rolled along.
[0064] The frame 10 supports an upright member 46 braced by an
angular member 48. The upright member 46 and angular member 48 are
welded or secured in any suitable manner such as by rivets, bolts,
or metal flange inserts and mating slots into the base member 12.
This can be seen where they are secured at portions respectively 50
and 52. As an aside, the securement of the various metal frame
members can be made by welding, bolts, rivets, inserts, tabs,
locking tabs, plastic joiners, or linking connectors which are well
known in the art.
[0065] The upright 46 and the bracing member 48 is provided on both
sides of the drive pulley disk or wheel 56.
[0066] In this case the braking or load is provided by means of an
electric or mechanical loading system, alternator, generator, rheo,
magnetic, eddy current, etc. In the alternative, a mechanical brake
such as caliper brakes known in the art can be used to squeeze the
rim of the disk or wheel 56.
[0067] In this particular case, the drive pulley 56 is
operationally connected by a belt to a pulley or sheave 60 which in
turn is connected by a second belt to a second pulley or sheave 62.
The second pulley or sheave 62 is also the flywheel attached to the
mechanical, electrical or electromagnetic load device, alternator,
generator, rheo, magnetic, etc. This device provides resistance to
the flywheel which in turn provides resistance to the crank pulley
56. As the crank pulley rotates, its energy is transmitted to the
flywheel and stored. This stored energy will provide the inertia
and will be constantly transmitted back to the crank pulley to
create a smooth motion to the user.
[0068] The resistance can be changed by requiring the loading
device to increase the resistance. Thereby changing the load on the
drive pulley 56 and the reflective load to the foot links.
[0069] In order to allow the user full access to variations and
resistance, a panel 70 which includes a switch bank 71 is shown.
The panel 70 is merely for descriptive purposes but can include
various inputs in the way of mechanical electronic or touch
switches so that variations in resistance can take place. In order
to allow for the user to have access and balance oneself, a pair of
handle bars 72 and 74 are shown to which the user can grip at
handle portions 76 and 78. Thus, a grip can be maintained and at
the same time changes in loading can take place by the switch means
that can be emplaced on the panel 70 such as switches in the form
of the switch bank 71 that are shown.
[0070] The drive system through the sheaves or pulleys 60 and 62
can be interconnected by any suitable drive including the journal
housing 61 as shown having the bearing support for the sheave 60.
Also, various controls can be utilized to tension the belt
connected between crank pulley and sheave 60 through the idler
pulley 59 as shown. To this extent, also frame members can be
utilized other than frame members shown including the upright
support 65 connected to the rigid support box 63 which is in turn
welded or connected to the upright 46 and bracing member 48. Also,
parallel bracing members on the other side such as those
symmetrically opposite upright 46 and angular bracing 48 can be
included.
[0071] The exercise trainer hereof is such wherein a user positions
oneself on the exerciser foot pedal portions 102 and 104. The foot
pedal portions 102 and 104 are supported on pedal links 106 and
108. The pedal links 106 and 108 comprise extruded beam or drive
rod portions in the form of an extrusion having a central
cross-sectional area formed as a general channel, tunnel, or void
180 and two channel portions 158 and 160 on either side. These will
be detailed hereinafter in the cross-sectional showings of the
extrusion.
[0072] Each of the pedal links 106 and 108 are connected
respectively to their crank members 94 and 92 by means of journaled
pivoting crank arm journaled extensions 110 and 112. The crank
extensions 110 and 112 extend into openings and bearings within the
foot links 106 and 108 as can be seen in the bearing guide shown in
FIG. 4, namely bearing guide 113. These crank arm journaled
extensions 110 and 112 can be formed as any crank arm extension
providing for a pivotal or rotational journaled attachment to the
crank arms 92 and 94 so as to create a rotational end member in the
form of the crank extensions 110 and 112 analogous to those of a
bicycle pedal support. The extensions 110 and 112 are pivotally
connected and journaled by bearings to the pedal links 106 and 108
at bearings 113.
[0073] The foregoing allows the pedal links to move in a
reciprocating manner on the rotationally supported bearings or
shafts 110 and 112. This reciprocating motion can be analogous to
any reciprocators which are attached to a rotational movement for
translation of rotational movement by a crank into reciprocating
movement such as is well known in the form of pitman rods, crank
connections, drive shafts and other forms for creating
reciprocating motion from rotational motion.
[0074] Mounted on the pedal links 106 and 108 are the two
respective pedal portions 102 and 104. The pedal portions can be
formed in any suitable manner. However, in this case they are shown
as inverted box shaped 90.degree. U shaped members or rectangular
channels. The box shaped or rectangular channel members forming the
pedal portions 102 and 104 are provided with some means for
receiving a user's foot. This has been shown in the form of the
outline 103 on pedal portion 102 that can be a foot pad with a heel
cup, a cup shaped element with upstanding lips, or lipped edges, or
a shoe like member into which a user's foot can be emplaced. One of
these types of foot pads is shown as foot pads 622 and 624 related
to the embodiment shown starting with FIG. 18. The foot pedals 102
and 104 are such wherein they support a user's foot which can be
connected in any particular manner or received on top in the form
of a foot conforming portion such as outline 103.
[0075] At the distal end from the cranks 92 and 94, the pedal links
106 and 108 are supported on a grouping of rollers 130 and 132
having rollers which will be detailed hereinafter. In order to view
the roller groupings 130 and 132 more carefully, a view thereof can
be seen in greater detail in FIGS. 13 and 15. FIG. 13 is a
perspective fragmented view thereof showing support of the pedal
link 108. This can be seen clearly wherein the inverted U shaped
portion 22 with its uprights 24 and 26 are shown supporting the
underlying lateral ground support member 40. Extending from the
ground support member 40 is a ground or upright column 138. The
ground support, or upright member 138 is seated within an opening
shown analogous to that of opening 140 having a pin or other means
such as a bolt 142 passing therethrough and securing it. The ground
138 can be connected to anything so long as it provides suitable
ground connection as will be detailed hereinafter. At its
non-grounded end, ground 138 attaches to a flexible member so that
a portion of the flexible member does not move with respect to
ground as the foot link 108 reciprocates backwardly and
forwardly.
[0076] In order to support the foot link 108, it can be seen that
the roller system or grouping 130 has been shown which is analogous
to roller system or grouping 132 which supports foot link 106.
[0077] In order to facilitate understanding of the support on the
roller support system 130, it should be understood that the foot
link 108 comprises an elongated beam like section that has been
extruded with a pair of channels 158 and 160 on either side, and
with an internal elongated tunnel chamber or passage 180. In
particular, looking at FIGS. 4, and 5, it can be seen wherein the
foot link 108 is shown having an upper slightly curved flat portion
150 and a lower portion 152. The upper and lower portions 150 and
152 are joined by a pair of internal webs 154 and 156. These
internal webs 154 and 156 can be seen more specifically in FIGS. 6,
7 and 8 which shows the end and cross-sections of the foot link
108.
[0078] In particular, webs 154 and 156 interconnect the upper
portions 150 and 152 so that a pair of channels 158 and 160 are
provided. The channels 158 and 160 have upper and lower convex
curvilinear surfaces 162 and 164 respectively at the tops and
bottoms thereof. These curvilinear convex internal surfaces 162 and
164 allow for a generally rounded seating of rollers which roll
therein and capture them at the outer limits or downturned and
upturned lips respectively 166 and 168.
[0079] Extending from the upturned lips 168, are a pair of flat
surfaces 170 which are bilaterally symmetrical and allow for
secondary guide rollers to be received on the flat surfaces
thereof. Thus, the foot link 108 comprise two channel portions 158
and 160 divided by upright webs 154 and 156 and also have a tunnel,
elongated cavity, or interior passage 180 passing therethrough. The
interior passage 180 is such where it receives a flexible member to
be detailed hereinafter.
[0080] The foot link extrusion 108 can be formed in any suitable
manner. The criteria is that it be able to reciprocate either on
rollers, links, or other means. For instance, a mechanical linkage
can be utilized in the form of arms on which the foot link 108
moves backwardly and forwardly. In this manner, movement of the
foot link reciprocally can be in any manner to provide for
reciprocal movement, as well as by pneumatic and fluidic means in
the form of pistons, cylinders, or other supports. Any such support
means in order to allow the foot link 108 to move backwardly and
forwardly can be utilized for reciprocating movement of the foot
links 106 and 108 with respect to the rotational movement of the
cranks 92 and 94. In effect, it is not necessary to have the
support roller system 130 and 132 or the configuration of the foot
links 106 and 108 as shown as long as a sliding reciprocal and
tilting or other movement can be established such as on a pivoting
upright support member or link which rotates backwardly and
forwardly such as a bell crank member, upright pneumatically
pivoting strut, or arcuately turning extension member connected to
a pneumatic or hydraulic damper.
[0081] In order to support the foot link 108 in the channels 158
and 160, a pair of main support rollers 190 and 192 are utilized.
These respective rollers 190 and 192 are received respectively
within the channels 158 and 160. These rollers 190 and 192 have a
partial curvilinear cross-section which generally conforms to the
upper and lower channels respectively 162 and 164. Thus smooth
rolling contact is established while at the same time engaging and
checking the movement of the foot link 108 from lateral sway.
[0082] Rollers 190 and 192 are machined slightly smaller in
diameter than the opening of 162 and 164 as seen in gaps 702 and
704. These gaps 702 and 704 allow clearance between rollers 190 and
192 and foot links 108 to provide a smooth and quiet rolling.
[0083] The rollers 190 and 192 fundamentally are such wherein they
support the foot links 106 and 108 in their reciprocal movement and
are assisted by means of two flat rollers 194 and 196. These flat
rollers 194 and 196 can be seen in greater detail in FIG. 15. These
particular flat rollers are designed to have a smaller gap from the
flat surface 170 on the extrusion. During normal operation, as the
user's weight presses down on the foot links, only the main support
roller is in contact and rolling as the foot links reciprocate. Any
uplifting force on the foot links during the operation will
disengage the extrusion from the main support rollers 190 and 192
and extrusion's flat 170 will roll on the flat rollers 194 and
196.
[0084] The rollers 190, 192, 194 and 196 are supported for movement
by a depending bracket 198 that has two lateral depending walls or
bracket portions 200 and 202. The depending bracket portions 200
and 202 have openings which receive a pair of axles 240 and 241.
These are secured by nuts 242 and 244 respectively to provide a
journaled bearing surface by axles 240 and 241 upon which bearings
of the rollers 190, 192, 194 and 196 can turn.
[0085] The rollers 190, 192, 194 and 196 can be journaled on any
type of bearing surface with ball bearings, roller bearings, or
merely a friction bearing. The main support rollers 190 and 192 are
shown also provided with bearings internal thereof attached to
their axles 240 and 241 for rolling movement. The rollers 190 and
192 are retained by any means to the ends of the axles 240 and
241.
[0086] The foregoing roller and support configuration provided by
the rollers 190 and 192 support the interior surfaces of the
channels 162 as they rest thereon. To further enhance the
operation, the flats or extensions 170 in conjunction with rollers
194 and 196 allow for rigidifying and maintenance of the movement
of the foot links so that the combination maintains the foot links
with regard to upper and lower movement and stability in both
vertical directions. This is based upon the rollers 194 and 196
being journaled and engaging the flats 170 by downwardly rolling
forces.
[0087] The upright ground member 138 as previously mentioned passes
upwardly through the foot links 108 and is received within a slot
260 which can be seen in greater detail in FIG. 5 as a slot in the
underlying surface 152 of the foot link 108. This allows for
reciprocating movement of the foot link 108 with the upright ground
member 138 passing through the slot 260. This permits a connection
of the ground to a flexible member which will be detailed
hereinafter which serves to move the foot pedals 102 and 104 in
relative motion to the foot links 106 and 108.
[0088] The foot pedals 102 and 104 can be seen as supported on the
foot links 106 and 108 in the various showings hereof.
Specifically, foot pedal 104 has been shown on foot link 108
supported by three pairs of rollers. The rollers at the front and
back respectively provide the underlying support at the front and
the back when rolling on respective channels 164. These particular
rollers can be seen as rollers 302 and 304 sectioned in the
direction of lines 8-8 of FIG. 3 so that they are detailed in FIG.
8. These rollers 302 and 304 are matched by a second pair of
rollers at the front area of the foot pedal 104. Each pair of
rollers is supported by an axle such as axle 306 at the rear and
axle 308 that are secured by nuts on either side. These nuts are
analogous to nuts 340 shown in FIG. 7 and can be substituted by
flanged fittings, cap nuts, or other means for securing the axle
306 with the rollers 302 and 304 thereon. These rollers 302 and 304
have bearing surfaces which allow them to roll on the axle or in
the alternative, the axle can be seated and journaled in the foot
pedal 104 so as to provide for rotational axial movement. The
respective rollers 302 and 304 and those on axle 308 which are not
shown ride in the channels 164 to provide resting support for the
foot pedal 104 as it moves backwardly and forwardly.
[0089] The rollers 302 and 304 are secured by spacers 318, or
bearings and end securements 320 on either end or side thereof.
Other suitable means such as bearing locks, caps, or other means
can be utilized. Suffice it to say, the rollers 302 and 304 move
backwardly and forwardly with rollers on axle 308 and support the
foot pedal 104 on the foot link 108 insofar as the pair of rollers
mounted on axles 306 and 308 are concerned.
[0090] The third set of rollers shown in the sectional view of FIG.
7 are rollers 332 and 334 which are also supported on an axle 336
passing through the foot pedal 104. This axle 336 allows for the
rollers 332 and 334 to ride thereon. Axle 336 in like manner to
axles 306 and 308 is secured by a nut 340 on either end and
includes spacers and bearings respectively 346 and 348.
[0091] The rollers 332 and 334 are offset with regard to their
axles in an upward manner from the axles 306 and 308. In this
manner, they exert an upward force against the arcuate convex
channel portions 162. The rollers 332 and 334 provide this upward
lifting force in such a manner as to create a tightened or snug
mounting of the foot pedal 104 on the foot link 108 by the central
portion pushing upwardly on the foot link 108 as the foot pedal 104
is loaded downwardly against the trough or curved portion 164 of
the channels by the rollers and axles 306 and 308. This can be seen
by the space beneath rollers 332 and 334 in FIG. 7. This allows for
more stable movement of the foot pedal 104.
[0092] In order to allow for movement of the foot pedals 104 on the
foot link 108 with the respective axles 306, 308 and 336, a space,
slot, or passage is milled or formed in the webs 154 and 156 which
can be seen as a slot 360. The slot 360 allows for passage of the
axles 306, 308 and 336 as the foot pedal 104 reciprocates
backwardly and forwardly in the channels 162 and 164. The clearance
for the axles 306, 308 and 336 allows the travel backwardly and
forwardly.
[0093] Looking at FIGS. 3, 4 and 8, it can be seen that a flexible
member anchor, securement or strap brace 364 is shown. This anchor
364 is anchored by means of a nut 366 on either side or in the
alternative, the rectangular anchoring means can be formed as a
rectangular through bolt having nuts 366 on either side. The
anchoring member or cross member 364 is connected to an elongated
flexible member 374. The elongated flexible member 374 is secured
to the anchoring member 364 in this case by means of a bolt 376 and
washer 378. However, the flexible member 374 can be clamped,
cinched or in any way affixed to the foot pedal 104 in a suitable
manner so that it is secured thereto and moves with and can pull
the foot pedal 104.
[0094] The bolt or screw attaching to the anchor 364 can be seen in
FIG. 8 as the bolt head 376 with the washer 378. The flexible
member 374 passes through the tunnel elongated opening or passage
180 and can be seen with its upper portion 382 and lower portion of
the flexible member belt or cable 384. These respective upper and
lower portions as can be seen are such wherein the upper portion
382 is anchored by the anchoring means in the form of the screw and
washer to the cross member 364. However, it can be anchored by any
suitable means so long as it is able to move drive and/or pull the
foot pedal 104 in the manner as described hereinafter.
[0095] The lower portion of the flexible member belt or cable 384
is anchored to the ground 138 as previously mentioned. Thus, its
affixation continues downwardly from the ground to the base of the
frame through the structure as previously stated. This ground 138
extends as an extension upwardly and is connected to the lower
portion by means of a bolt and washer configuration 390 similar to
that of the bolt and washer or screw and washer 376 and 378. The
securement can be in any suitable manner by clamping and holding
the lower portion 384 so that it is fixed with regard to the ground
position 138 and such that it does not move therefrom in any
appreciable manner.
[0096] The flexible member 374 is wrapped around a pair of belt
pulleys or sheaves respectively at the back and distal therefrom
toward the front. These respective pulleys or sheaves comprise a
back belt pulley 394 and a front pulley 396. This is also seen
graphically in FIG. 6 wherein the back or rearward belt pulley 394
has a pair of flanges 395 and 397 on either side thereof. These
flanges 395 and 397 serve to hold the belt 374 in a central
position on the belt pulley. In order to journal the rearward belt
pulley 394, it can be seen that a bolt or other journaling means
passes through the center thereof having bearings. In this case,
the bolt comprises a bolt 401 with a head 403 and a nut 405 to
secure the belt pulley 394 thereto.
[0097] In like manner, the belt pulley 396 is secured similarly to
the side walls of the inside of the channels namely side walls 154
and 156. This can be seen wherein the sheave or pulley flanged side
walls analogous to those shown on the rear belt pulley 394, namely
flanged side walls 409 and 411 are shown in FIG. 7 within the
tunnel or elongated cavity 180. The belt pulley 396 is journaled on
an axle with bearings seen in FIG. 7 and partially seen in FIG. 4
with a nut 419 securing the axle.
[0098] These belt pulleys 394 and 396 which will be described
hereinafter as belt pulleys to distinguish them from the other
rollers comprise a sheave, turning means, or other element to allow
the flexible member 374 to rotate around them as the foot link 108
moves, in a manner to be described.
[0099] It should be noted that the axis of the belt pulley 394 can
not be moved any farther forward than the point of anchoring of the
belt at the point where it is secured by securement 390 to the
ground 138. Also to this extent, the belt pulley 396 can not be
moved backwardly into the area of the foot pedal 104 to the point
where it entangles or disorients the movement of the foot pedal by
impinging or engaging against the forward axle 308 of the foot
pedal. Within these constraints also it should be understood that
the movement of the foot pedal 104 should be allowed to move with
respect to the foot link 108 in a non-binding and free manner to
provide for the increased stride of this invention in a manner so
that it does not restrict the reciprocal movement of the foot links
106 and 108.
[0100] In effect, what happens, is as the foot link 108 moves
backwardly, it tends to push the belt pulley 394 relative to the
ground backwardly. This in turn pulls the flexible member
backwardly so that the upper strap portion cable or other flexible
member portion 382 tends to pull the foot pedal 104 backwardly due
to the fact it is secured thereto at the connection or anchor 376.
As it pulls the foot pedal 104 backwardly, it pulls it along the
top of the foot link 108. At the same time, while pulling the top
portion 382 of the flexible member, the bottom portion 384 tends to
pay out and wrap around the belt pulley 396 as it moves around the
axis thereof. The flexible member 374 is a continuous looped member
so that it pulls by the relative motion of the belt pulley 394
driving it backwardly while feeding around the belt pulley 396.
[0101] As the foot link 108 moves forwardly, it moves the belt
pulley 396 so as to pull forwardly the foot pedal 104. Thus, at
this point the pulley 396 serves as a driving roller by pulling the
connection point or anchor 376 and the attendant foot pedal 104
forwardly as the rear belt pulley pays out the upper portion 382 of
the flexible member 374 forwardly. In this manner, relative motion
is multiplied by a factor of four times the length of the crank arm
92 as will be seen in the crank arm description in the Figures
described hereinafter. Other means to impart this relative motion
within the foot link 108 can also be accommodated such as by the
substitution of a rack and pinion respectively for the flexible
member 374 and the belt pulleys 394 and 396. Also, aside from a
rack and pinion and various cable configurations, it should be
understood that levers and anchoring points can be utilized to
enhance this principle of the doubling movement of the normal
diameter sweep of the crank arms.
[0102] Looking at FIG. 14, it can be seen that the rear support
rollers 190, 192, 194 and 196 are shown. However, as an
alternative, the ground point 138 is secured to the lower portion
384 of the flexible member in part by a spring. This spring allows
for retention and belt flexibility so that the belt 374 is
maintained in a tightened relationship. However, in general, it is
believed that a tightened cable or other means will generally not
require the spring tightening shown in FIG. 14. This spring
tightening shown in FIG. 14 can not only be a coil spring 410 as
shown therein but any other suitable means to take up slack.
[0103] Looking specifically at FIGS. 2, 9, 10, 11, and 12, it can
be seen that the relative positions have been shown with regard to
the crank arms, the foot link, the foot pedal, and the flexible
member. The view is of a mid-line view of the foot link, foot pedal
and flexible member within the foot link.
[0104] Looking more specifically at FIG. 2, it can be seen that the
frame supporting the exercise trainer of this invention is shown.
The respective foot pedals are shown in a dynamic traveling mode in
a dotted configuration defined by a dotted curve 500. The dotted
curve 500 is somewhat analogous to a degenerated ellipse. An
ellipse as purely defined is an elongated circle: a regular oval;
specifically: a closed plane curve generated by a point so moving
that its distance from a fixed point divided by its distance from a
fixed line is a positive constant less than 1. However, in this
particular case it can be seen that this is fundamentally a
degenerated ellipse 500 having an elongated or major axis between
two particular points.
[0105] For illustration purposes initially the operation of the
foot pedal is such wherein a user's foot at point 502 is when the
crank 92 is in the horizontal position. The crank connector 112 is
at the farthest position defined by approximately a point
90.degree. counterclockwise from its top position. Also the
position of a person's foot 502 is in the most forward position
with regard to the foot pedal 104 on the foot link 108. As the foot
pedal 104 is pushed downwardly, thereby orienting the crank an
additional 90.degree. so that the crank arm is moved 180.degree.
counterclockwise from the top position, the point of the foot 504
is moved backwardly. As the crank moves backwardly more with the
relative movement of the foot pedal 104 moving backwardly the crank
is approximately 270.degree. in counterclockwise movement from the
top position. At this point the foot position at point 506 is in
its furthest position backwardly.
[0106] As the foot link 108 moves forwardly by the crank arm moving
to the top position, the foot position 508 changes so that it is at
the top of the modified ellipse. The modified ellipse 500 describes
the foot and foot pedal 104 positions 502, 504, 506, and 508
respectively with regard to the crank positions. The modified
dotted configuration 500 is such where it defines the movement as
shown so that a smooth generally modified elliptical path is
achieved. This somewhat corresponds to a running or jogging motion
for movement rather than a mere straight up and down or sliding
movement. It can also be noted that the position of the foot moving
from position 502 to 506 is such wherein the major axis of the
modified elliptical like configuration 500 is four times the crank
length. Thus the overall multiplier effect of two creates an
increase of a factor of four times the crank length.
[0107] Looking more particularly at FIGS. 9, 10, 11, and 12 it can
be seen that the relationship as defined in FIG. 2 is shown with
regard to the movement of the flexible member 374. In order to
orient the operation, the first position is shown in FIG. 9 and
sequencing through FIGS. 10, 11, and 12.
[0108] FIG. 9 shows the crank in its most forward position which
accordingly is the position of the foot link connected at its
joumaled bearing location 112. This is approximately at 90.degree.
from top center in a counterclockwise movement or at approximately
nine o'clock. At this point, the foot pedal 104 and the location of
a user's foot can be seen in the most forward position of the
exercise movement.
[0109] The foot pedal 104 is then driven backwardly from its most
forward position. It will now be seen wherein by moving to the
position of FIG. 10, which is 90.degree. from the prior position of
FIG. 9, or approximately 180.degree. from the top center position
moving counterclockwise to six o'clock, that the foot link 108 has
been moved backwardly. The foot pedal 104 has moved a given
distance D1. This given distance D1 is accommodated by the belt
pulley 394 being journaled to and driven by the foot link 108
backwardly in the direction of arrow B. This thereby pulls the
upper portion 382 of the flexible member backwardly thereby pulling
the anchor point 364 of the foot pedal backwardly so that the foot
pedal 104 moves relatively along the top of the foot link 108.
[0110] As the foot link 108 moves farther backwardly, the foot
pedal 104 also moves backwardly in relation thereto as shown in
FIG. 11. In FIG. 11, the crank 192 has moved a full 270.degree.
from the top position or 180.degree. backwardly to a position at
three o'clock. The distance that the foot pedal moves is shown as
D2. D2 is the distance of four times the crank length. From this
point, with further movement, the foot pedal 104 then moves
forwardly as seen in FIG. 12.
[0111] In FIG. 12, the foot link 108 has moved forwardly to its top
position or at twelve o'clock a full 270.degree. from the position
shown in FIG. 9. The distance and movement from the rear position
of D2 is D2 minus D1 with the foot pedal being in the upper
position. This is caused by the belt pulley 396 pulling the foot
pedal 104 forwardly from its anchor point 364 due to the fact that
the relative position of the belt pulley 396 is moving forwardly in
the direction of arrow F. The overall effect is to move the upper
belt member 382 forwardly while feeding out the lower belt member
384 so that it travels around the belt pulley 394 in the opposite
direction from the way it was traveling when the movement was in
the direction of arrow B.
[0112] From the foregoing it can be seen that the overall movement
of the foot pedal 104 has gone upwardly and downwardly in a roughly
modified elliptical manner as shown by the outline 500 of FIG. 2.
This makes a smooth curvilinear transition from the forward
position indicated at point 502 on the foot pedal back to point 506
and then forwardly again to point 502. As can be understood, any
principle involving such an effect by a rack and pinion or linkages
substituting the flexible member 374 and the belt pulleys 394 and
396 can be utilized. Such means would be a rack and pinion or
combination thereof in the alternative to belts and pulleys,
cables, chains, or other means. Of course, chains can be
effectuated with the utilization of sprockets or other means
substituting for the belt pulleys 394 and 396. All the foregoing
can effect the same movement of driving the foot pedal 104
backwardly and forwardly from its relative position on the foot
link in relationship to ground as established by the ground 138
connected to the frame in its fixed location.
[0113] Looking more specifically at FIGS. 16 and 17 it can be seen
in FIG. 16 that a generally modified elliptical path 600 has been
shown analogous to the prior modified elliptical path 500. In this
particular instance, the flexible member has been provided in the
manner of the normal flexible member 374 within the foot link 108
with the foot pedal 104 being placed on top of the foot link 108.
Here again, pulleys 394 and 396 are in the same orientation as in
the prior embodiment. However, in this particular case additional
pulley sets are utilized with an additional belt link. In
particular, this embodiment incorporates the ground point 138 to
which the flexible member or belt is attached. However, a second
set of pulleys 602 and 604 are utilized to allow the belt 364 to be
fed around each particular pulley 602 and 604 to feed it
downwardly. Pulley 602 and 604 are allowed to pivot as the foot
link 108 travels upwardly and downwardly or oscillates in its
upward and downward motion through its reciprocating movement.
[0114] Attached to the foot link in a fixed relationship is a third
set of pulleys 606 and 608 that have an attachment in the form of a
bracket 610 and 612 respectively for holding the pulleys 606 and
608. These particular brackets are fixed to the underside of the
foot link, namely surface 152. The portion of the belt between
pulleys 606 and 608 is affixed to a ground point 138 which is
affixed to the frame so that it does not move. This particular
arrangement provides for a multiplying effect of six times the
length of the crank 92 attached to the foot link 108.
[0115] FIG. 17 shows an analogous multiplier which provides eight
times the crank length distance. In this particular embodiment, a
set of pulleys 620, 622, 640 and 642 are provided which are mounted
on a plate that pivots around a pivoting pulley point at the axis
thereof, namely pulley point 624.
[0116] A second set of pulleys 626 and 628 are attached to a
bracket 630 which is rigidly mounted to the underside 152 of the
foot link 108.
[0117] A third set of pulleys 630 and 632 are mounted to a bracket
634 that is connected to the foot link 108 underside 152 by the
bracket so that they move in concert with the foot link. Here
again, as analogous to the showing in FIG. 16 the portion of the
flexible member 374 that extends between the pulleys 632 and 628 is
secured to an analogous ground which is ground 138.
[0118] As the foot link 108 travels to the left a given distance,
each belt portion connecting the pulley sets will increase a given
distance in length. Since there are six connecting belts a single
point on the belt next to the foot pedal travels six times that
distance. The remaining distance to make up for the factor of eight
is derived from the foot link itself moving with respect to the
pedal. This provides for a movement of eight times the length of
the crank 92.
[0119] Looking more specifically at FIG. 18, a perspective view of
an alternative embodiment of this invention is shown. In
particular, the invention incorporates generally all the features
of FIGS. 1 through 17 with slight modifications. FIG. 18 shows an
elliptical exerciser having the analogous frame members 16 and 18
of which frame member 16 is shown. Also, an elongated member 12 is
shown extending backwardly to a T type cross support 14.
Additionally, a handle or T bar 610 is shown connected thereto for
purposes of movement or orienting the respective exerciser shown in
FIG. 18.
[0120] Foot links 106 and 108 are also included. These foot links
106 and 108 are supported in a similar manner to that shown in
FIGS. 1 through 17. However, in this particular embodiment, instead
of having the cross frame member 22, upright supports, stanchions,
or frame connecting members 612, 614, 616, and 618 are
utilized.
[0121] These particular supports 612 through 618 support the foot
links 106 and 108 in a similar manner. The foot links 106 and 108
are supported on rollers on either side analogous to rollers 190
and 192. These respective analogous rollers 190 and 192 are both
supported on bearing surfaces supported by the uprights,
stanchions, or frame members 612, 614, 616, and 618. This allows
the foot links 106 and 108 to reciprocally move backwardly and
forwardly with respect to the foregoing stanchions as supported on
the external grooves previously described on rollers analogous to
rollers 190 and 192.
[0122] Here again, a ground is provided for the formerly described
flexible members attached to the foot links 106 and 108.
[0123] The foot links 106 and 108 have foot pedals 103 and 104 that
are analogous to the previously described foot pedals. In this
particular case, the foot pedals 103 and 104 have foot receiving
portions 622 and 624 for receiving a foot on the pedal portions 103
and 104.
[0124] Looking more particularly at the forward portions of the
invention, it can be seen that a control panel 70A is shown
analogous to panel 70. Also, handle grips 76A and 78A are shown
which provide support analogous to the foregoing grips 76 and
78.
[0125] The invention shown in FIG. 18 also incorporates a drive
pulley, disk, or wheel 56 analogous to those showings of FIGS. 1
through 17. The drive pulley 56 is connected to a pulley or sheave
60 by a belt which is in turn connected by a second belt to a
second pulley or sheave 62 which also serves the purpose of being a
flywheel.
[0126] The flywheel 62 can be connected as in the prior description
to provide a load through a mechanical, electrical or
electromagnetic load device, alternator, generator, rheo, magnetic
load or any other suitable load as mentioned hereinbefore. Thus, as
the foot links 106 and 108 move backwardly and forwardly they take
on the same function as that shown in FIGS. 1 through 17 to provide
a resistive elliptical movement for a user.
[0127] Looking more specifically at the embodiments in FIG. 18 and
FIGS. 19 through 26, it can be seen that a pair of levers,
linkages, poles, rods, or connections 640 and 642 have been shown.
These are left and right levers 640 and 642 to allow for a user to
hold onto respective handles 644 and 646 for movement thereof.
[0128] The levers 640 and 642 are pivoted on a pivot support 648
forming a pivot axis for levers 640 and 642. The pivot support is
connected to and affixed to the frame by a frame connecting support
or bracket 650. The pivot support 648 allows for movement around
its axis so that the levers 640 and 642 when engaged move with
respect to the foot links 106 and 108 in an oscillating or
reciprocating manner. When the levers 640 and 642 are disengaged,
they can be held, secured, stored, or supported by a holding bar
660 having latches to hold them. The latches can be in the form of
magnets 662 and 664 or other connectable securements or latches
which will be described hereinafter in greater detail.
[0129] Looking more specifically at FIGS. 19, 20, 21, and 22, it
can be seen wherein a fragmented articulated series of figures have
been shown. These specific figures detail the movement and the
linkages with the levers 640 and 642 around their pivot points, and
connection points of the upper body apparatus.
[0130] When looking at FIGS. 19 through 22, in conjunction with
FIG. 18, it can be seen that the pivot bar or pivoting connection
648 around which levers 640 and 642 pivot, interconnects with lower
portions 670 and 672 of the levers. The lower lever portions 670
and 672 are connected in turn to a respective pair of horseshoe
links 674 and 676. These horseshoe links can be categorized as a
clevis, horseshoe link, or saddle link. The clevis 674 and 676
interconnect with a pair of foot link connectors 680, 682, 684, and
686 on each side to the respective clevis 674 and 676.
[0131] The respective connections between the clevis 674 and 676
and the foot link interconnects 680 through 686 are held by a pin
or belt with a bearing, lock washer nut, or lock nut on either
side. This allows the clevis 674 and 676 to rock backwardly and
forwardly as attached to the foot link connectors, 680, 682, 684,
and 686. Also, they can be held in any other manner with a screw,
pin, bolt, threaded nut, lock nut, or any suitable means to provide
the bearing. A through pin through the foot links 106 and 108 with
a bore in the foot links provides a connection between the foot
link interconnects 680, 682, 684, and 686.
[0132] The foot link interconnects as previously stated are
connected by means of a pin, rod, or bolt 694 to the foot links 106
and 108. This rod 694 can have a tube, bearing or sheath 696 which
serves to be a bearing surface through the respective foot links
106 and 108. Accordingly, the movement of the foot links 106 and
108 is born upon the tubes, sheaths or bearings 696 to provide for
movement in a through hole or bore in the foot links. Other types
of connections which are suitable can be utilized for attaching the
clevis 674 and 676 to the interlinks and foot links in any suitable
manner so long as the pivoting action thereof is maintained as will
be detailed hereinafter.
[0133] Looking again more particularly at FIGS. 19, 20, 21, and 22
the foot links 106 and 108 have been shown reciprocating whereby
foot link 108 is moving initially in the direction of arrow 700.
The other foot link 106 attached to its respective crank arm 92 is
moving in the opposite direction. This is based upon the rotor 56
moving in the direction of arrow 702. The foregoing causes the
upper portion of the levers 640 and 642 to move in the respective
arrow addressed movements as shown in FIG. 19 around the pivotal
point of pivotal rod or pivotal support 648.
[0134] The movement of the levers 640 and 642 around the axis of
the pivot rod 648 establishes a pivot point at the pivotal
connection of the pivotal rod which can be a bearing surface,
interior exterior bearing, or any other suitable pivotal support
for levers 640 and 642. This provides a pivotal movement so as the
upper portions 645 and 647 of the levers 640 and 642 move in the
direction of the arrows as shown, the lower portions 670 and 672 of
the levers move in the opposite directions. In effect, the levers
640 and 642 pivot around the pivot point established by the pivot
support or rod 648. The pivot point of rod or support 648 might
also be considered as a pivotal axis, center of movement, or point
of rotation for the upper and lower portions of the levers 640 and
642. These lower portions have been designated 670 and 672 and as
previously stated move in the opposite direction from the upper
portions 645 and 647 interconnected to handles 644 and 646.
[0135] At the point of the showing of FIG. 19, the crank 92 has
moved to a counterclockwise position at approximately six o'clock.
As the crank 92 moves in the direction of arrow 702, it continues
its travel by driving the foot link 108 into a backward or
rearwardly extended position. At this point, the crank arm 92 is
approximately at three o'clock or rotated counterclockwise
90.degree. from the position it was in FIG. 19.
[0136] The foregoing causes further forward movement of the upper
lever portion 647 having the handle 646 and further backward
movement of the upper lever portion 645 having the handle 644 in
the respective arrow directions shown. The travel at this position
is the position which the levers 640 and 642 travel to until
reciprocating in the opposite directions. The levers 640 and 642
can be angled with respect to their connections as will be set
forth hereinafter or at other angular orientations with respect to
the handles 644 and 646.
[0137] As the foot link 108 and its companion foot link 106
continue to reciprocate it can be seen that foot link 108 in FIG.
21 is moving forwardly in the direction of arrow 720. The forward
movement of the foot link 108 is accompanied by the backward
movement of the foot link 106. At this point, the crank 92 is in
the twelve o'clock position having traveled 180.degree..
[0138] As the crank arm 92 moves around in FIG. 22 to the nine
o'clock position in the counterclockwise direction of arrow 702,
the respective levers 640 and 642 are shown having moved with the
upper handle portions 644 and 646 to the positions shown. The foot
link 108 is moving to the forward position in the direction of
arrow 720. The foot link 106 is moving to the rearward position.
Rotation of the crank 92 continues until it reaches the point of
that shown in FIG. 19 with the foot link 108 then traveling in the
direction of arrow 700 and the foot link 106 traveling in the
opposite direction.
[0139] From the foregoing it can be seen that the upper portions
645 and 647 of the levers including handles 644 and 646 reciprocate
backwardly and forwardly around the pivot point established by
bearing support 648. The lower portions 670 and 672 reciprocate in
the opposite direction as attached to the their respective clevis
674 and 676. This provides for an upper body workout in such a
manner that the levers 640 and 642 can be over driven or under
driven depending upon the nature of the workout desired.
[0140] From the articulated showings of FIGS. 19, 20, 21, and 22,
it can be seen that as the foot links 106 and 108 reciprocate as in
the showings of FIGS. 1 through 17, that an upper body workout can
take place by gripping handles 644 and 646. The handles 644 and 646
when driven by the levers 640 and 642 allow for one to hang on to
them and merely have a lesser requirement as to effort or they can
be driven by the upper body to supplement the movement of the foot
links 106 and 108.
[0141] Any combination of effort can be utilized by allowing the
respective levers 640 and 642 to drive with, or supplement the foot
links 106 and 108 in any effort desired by a user. The effect is to
allow for pivotal levers 640 and 642 connected by a pivoting link
to the foot links 106 and 108 to provide upper body and lower body
movement. This can be analogous to running, walking, or other
related arm movements under various exercise conditions. The
foregoing allows for implementation of an upper body effort
analogous to an upper body effort made by such machines as ski
machines, rowing machines and other combined upper and lower body
units.
[0142] A very important feature of this invention is the ability to
disconnect the upper body exercise levers 640 and 642 from the
movement of the foot links 106 and 108. In this manner, the effort
then drives the foot links 106 and 108 as described in FIGS. 1
through 17 for elliptical movement. A user can hold on to such
grips as handles 76A and 78A. This is done by a disconnection of
the levers which can be done in multiple ways. Two of the
embodiments are shown in FIGS. 23 through 26.
[0143] The first embodiment shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 is shown in
the prior figures as a rotational disconnector and connector 800.
These respective disconnectors and connectors 800 are on either
side of the central pivot point rod 648 for engagement and
disengagement.
[0144] The connector 800 on the right side is connected to upper
lever portion 645. It is an identical connector to that connecting
upper lever portion 647 except in the opposite direction. The
connector 800 allows for a pivotal movement around a break point or
bearing portion 649 so that upper portion 645 and lower portion 670
can oscillate, pivot or rock backwardly and forwardly in the
direction of arrow 651 when connected or engaged. This rocking or
pivoting motions of the portions in the direction of arrow 651 is
emulated by arrow 655 and arrow 657.
[0145] Thus, while pivoting around the break point or bearing
portion 649 the two respective upper portions 645 and 647 and lower
portions 670 and 672 can move backwardly and forwardly under the
engagement provided by the connector 800. Connector 800 is such
where the connection and disconnection point is effected at a
second pivoting or break point 663. This break point 663 allows
upper portions 645 and 647 to be restrained from movement when in
their disengaged positions.
[0146] In order to engage upper portions 645 and 647 and lower
portions 670 and 672, a screw member 820 having a knob 822 is
utilized. The screw member 820 has a spring 824 which allows it to
be biased backwardly. As the screw member 820 is screwed forwardly,
it passes through an L bracket 828 and threads into an upstanding
locking bracket 830. The locking bracket 830 is connected to the
upright members 645 and 647 and a lateral tubular connection 832.
The lateral tubular connection 832 is allowed to pivot around the
break point 663. Tubular connection 832 is connected by a through
bolt 834 or bearing support so that it can rotate around the break
point 663 on any suitable bearing surface.
[0147] When the lateral tubular connection 832 is affixed by the
screw member 820 being screwed into the bracket 830, as seen in
FIG. 23 an affixation or engagement of the upper portion 645 and
the lower portion 670 is effected. This creates a fixed connection
between the upper portion 645 and the lower portion 670 of the
levers by the screw member 820 being threaded into the opening 840
of the bracket 830. Any suitable affixation or engagement by
interconnecting the L bracket 828 which has been welded to an
intermediate portion 829 connected to the lower portion 670 can be
effected. The principal is to allow for an engagement or
disengagement between the lower 670 and the upper portion 645 of
the lever 640.
[0148] When a disconnection is effected as shown in FIG. 24, the
upper portion 645 can be moved forwardly to a holding bar such as
bar 660 having magnets or other suitable latches 662 and 664. This
holds the respective uprights or upper portions 645 and 647 with
the handles 644 and 646 in an out of the way or stored position.
The portions 645 and 647 are held in the stored position against
the bar with any suitable locking means including a latch, hook,
snap, or other suitable latch or holding means against the bar
660.
[0149] At this position the lower portions 670 and 672 are then
free to move backwardly and forwardly around their pivot points on
bearing support rod 648 without causing the upper portion or arms
645 and 647 to oscillate with their handles 644 and 646 moving.
This enables a user to obtain a lower body workout without
engagement or hinderance of the upper arms 645 and 647. In effect,
the upper arms 645 and 647 are placed in a latched, parked,
retained, or stored position by any suitable retention and latching
means such as the magnets 662 and 664. This allows the foot links
106 and 108 to function as in FIGS. 1 through 17 without upper body
exercise action.
[0150] An alternative disconnector and connector is shown in FIGS.
25 and 26. This connector relies upon cam levers in order to
connect and disconnect the respective upper and lower portions.
[0151] FIG. 25 shows the upper portion 647 disconnected from the
lower portion 672. This is by means of the cam locking handle, arm,
or lever 870 being pulled and disengaged. By pulling and
disengaging the cam locking handle 870, it displaces an outer or
exterior collar 872 from an inner or interior collar 874. The
collars 872 and 874 can be of any particular configuration so long
as they provide the locking and unlocking such that lower members
670 and 672 can continue to oscillate as attached to the clevis 674
or 676 while allowing the upper portions 645 and 647 to be latched
against movement when disconnected.
[0152] The collars 872 and 874 as the respective outside and inside
collars can be formed in any particular manner to provide a locking
or engaging function with respect to locking surfaces such as keys
and keyways, or shoulders that are engaged and disengaged. In this
particular instance, collar 872 engages collar 874 by moving into a
recessed or stepped portion 882. The foregoing can be substituted
by a key and keyway or other engagement with shoulders and slots.
The recessed portion 882 is particularly recessed so as to provide
a shoulder 884 against which a second shoulder 886 of outside
collar 872 can engage itself by having a recess 888 which allows an
engagement thereof. This is accomplished by articulation of the cam
handle 870, and rotational movement of the collars 872 and 874.
[0153] Looking more specifically at the respective collars 872 and
874 as engaged, it can be seen that the cam handle 870 is in its
upward or closed position. The cam handle 870 drives with a caming
surface 890 on the exterior collar 872. This is done against a
surface 892 of the outer collar 872. The particular showing is a
midline section of the closed configuration on the right side shown
in FIG. 25 with the engagement of the outer collar 872 to the inner
collar 874.
[0154] The lever or cam handle 870 is connected to a pin 894 which
is in turn connected to a hollow rod 896. When the cam handle 870
is pulled, it engages the cam surface 890 on either side against
the face 892 of the outer collar 872. This allows the hollow rod to
pull the outer collar 872 outwardly disengaging it at the
shoulders, interface, or break line 898 between the inner collar
874 and outer collar 872.
[0155] When moved to the disconnected relationship, the movement is
such where it provides for a pulling of a bearing tube 902 so that
disengagement takes place along the break line 898 between the
inner collar 874 and outer collar 872. In effect, the hollow rod
896 pulls the outer collar 872 by means of the bearing tube 902 at
its respective end flanges 904. End flanges 904 are also driven by
means of a coil spring 906 that is in compression that serves to
push the outer collar 872 outwardly when the cam surface 870 is
articulated by movement of the cam arm 870.
[0156] The inner collar 874 is suitably engaged to the connection
by means of a tube 926. The tube 926 has a flange 928 at its end
which engages the end of the inner collar 874. The foregoing is
secured by means of a threaded bolt having a head and a washer such
as bolt 934.
[0157] Thus, the inner collar 874 is secured and held to an
elongated support, or rod 940 which moves on the bearing surface or
connecting interface 649. The bearing surface 649 allows for the
rotational pivotal movement along the axis of support 848 as in the
prior description. Rod 940 fundamentally is supported for
rotational movement along its axis with the fixed rod tube support
or static member 48 which provides the pivotal axis around which
the levers 640 and 642 can rotate.
[0158] It should be born in mind that movement of the cam arm 870
outwardly allows the spring 906 to drive the tube 902 to move the
outer collar 872. When re-engaged, the handle 870 works against the
spring pressure 906 to place the outer collar 872 into engagement
again with the inner collar 874.
[0159] In order to prevent over-rotation while at the same time
indexing the outer collar 872 with the inner collar 874, a pin 910
is utilized. This pin 910 engages an opening 912 within the recess
or stepped portion 882. The receipt portions for the pin 910 can be
seen as opening 916 in FIG. 25. In this manner, when the cam handle
870 is again driven backwardly so that it cams the surface with the
cam surface 890 of the surface 892 of the outer collar 872, it
re-engages the two respective collars 872 and 874 and is such where
it indexes them at the pin hole 916 that receives the pin 910.
[0160] Other means of indexing can be utilized. Further to this
extent, the pin can serve as a stop so that the upper portions 645
and 647 do not rotate beyond a particular point. When the two
respective collars 872 and 874 are disengaged, the inner break
point 898 or interface line allows for movement of the lower
portions 670 and 672. The upper portions 645 and 647 are retained
against the latch of latching rod 660 which can have the magnets
such as magnets 662 and 664 or other engagement latches holding the
upper portions.
[0161] Any suitable collar engagement means can be used or cam
connection driving the respective collars together. Also, various
configurations such as screw connectors, gear latching, clutch
latching, by means of plates or toothed gears, friction clutches,
ring friction clutches, V grooved clutches, cam clutches, such as
those provided in certain engineers illustrated thesaurus' can be
utilized. The consideration is to allow engagement and
disengagement so that the lower portions 670 and 672 can move
independently of the upper portions 645 and 647 when they are
disengaged and latched. This allows for the movement of the upper
and lower portions respectively 645 and 647 and 670 and 672
independently of each other. The foregoing can be performed as
stated by any particular clutching, engagement, holding, or locking
and unlocking means.
[0162] From the foregoing description of the preferred embodiments,
it can be seen that this invention provides significant multiplier
effects for an exercise trainer without the need for various
mechanical levers and other types of functional linkages. At the
same time it provides a smooth movement of a user's foot on the
foot pedal backwardly and forwardly and up and down so that aerobic
training can be undertaken. Additionally, this invention provides
for arm or upper body exercise levers, poles, or linkages. These
levers can be engaged and disengaged with the foot links to provide
an upper and lower body workout or solely a lower body workout on
the same piece of equipment. Consequently, this invention should be
read broadly in light of any claims hereto.
* * * * *