U.S. patent application number 10/583831 was filed with the patent office on 2007-12-27 for apparatus for physical exercise, and a crank device and foot supporting platforms for use with such apparatus.
This patent application is currently assigned to Ziad Badarneh. Invention is credited to Ziad Badarneh, Campbell Ellis, Benedict J.M. Hansen, Torbjorn Mollatt.
Application Number | 20070298935 10/583831 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34714718 |
Filed Date | 2007-12-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070298935 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Badarneh; Ziad ; et
al. |
December 27, 2007 |
Apparatus for Physical Exercise, and a Crank Device and Foot
Supporting Platforms for Use With Such Apparatus
Abstract
A crank device comprising foot supports with means for
controlling stability and angle relative to the motion. There are
linkages for stabilising and keeping a correct angle relative to an
apparatus frame during a full rotation. The foot supporting means
have also means for adjusting the angle to create a toe-heel tilt.
The foot supporting means in form of platforms have optional tilt
movement with an adjustable mechanism, the movement transverse the
stepping motion, for utilising proprioseptive training and
exercise.
Inventors: |
Badarneh; Ziad; (Oslo,
NO) ; Ellis; Campbell; (Oslo, NO) ; Hansen;
Benedict J.M.; (Oslo, NO) ; Mollatt; Torbjorn;
(Oppegard, NO) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RODMAN RODMAN
10 STEWART PLACE
SUITE 2CE
WHITE PLAINS
NY
10603
US
|
Assignee: |
Ziad Badarneh
Carl Kjelsensvei 34
Oslo
NO
N-0874
|
Family ID: |
34714718 |
Appl. No.: |
10/583831 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2004 |
PCT Filed: |
December 21, 2004 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/NO04/00396 |
371 Date: |
April 11, 2007 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/52 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 2022/0617 20130101;
A63B 2220/13 20130101; A63B 22/0664 20130101; A63B 2208/0233
20130101; A63B 2208/0238 20130101; A63B 2220/12 20130101; A63B
21/225 20130101; A63B 22/001 20130101; A63B 22/0015 20130101; A63B
2022/0688 20130101; A63B 2220/30 20130101; A63B 2230/06 20130101;
A63B 2220/805 20130101; A63B 2230/062 20130101; A63B 2022/0623
20130101; A63B 22/0046 20130101; A63B 22/0017 20151001; A63B 22/203
20130101; A63B 2022/067 20130101; A63B 2208/0204 20130101; A63B
2022/002 20130101; A63B 22/0023 20130101; A63B 2022/0629 20130101;
A63B 2022/0647 20130101; A63B 2220/16 20130101; A63B 22/0605
20130101; A63B 2022/0652 20130101; A63B 2210/50 20130101; A63B
24/00 20130101; A63B 2230/75 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/052 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/08 20060101
A63B022/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Dec 22, 2003 |
NO |
20035785 |
Jan 12, 2004 |
NO |
20040138 |
Feb 2, 2004 |
NO |
20040466 |
Apr 7, 2004 |
NO |
20041472 |
Apr 7, 2004 |
NO |
20041473 |
Apr 7, 2004 |
NO |
20041474 |
May 3, 2004 |
NO |
20041804 |
Claims
1. An apparatus for physical exercise or training and with means
which provide for a plurality of different workout options
simulating human physical movements, comprising: an apparatus frame
having a crank device mounted thereon, said crank device utilising
cardanic motion, a pair of crank arms each comprised of at least
two parts, a first part being an inner crank arm and a second part
being an outer crank arm, an inner crank arm axle to which said
inner crank arm is rotationally attached, a first gear forming a
sun gear through which said inner crank arm axle rotatably extends,
said first gear being fixedly attached to a crank device frame, a
second gear rotatably attached to an outer end of the inner crank
arm, said outer crank arm at one end fixedly attached to said
second gear and at the other end carrying a foot support, said
first and second gears having a transmission ratio of 2:1, and
means connecting the first and second gears to enable the second
gear to revolve around or along the first gear when human force leg
force is applied to said foot support, a flywheel with or linked to
movement braking means, a pair of handles stationary linked to the
frame or movably linked to rotational movement means on the crank
device to cause reciprocal movement of the handles; and a first
distance defined to be between a foot support attachment location
on the outer crank arm and a centre of the second gear being equal
to or larger than a second distance defined to be between the
centre of the second gear and inner crank axle or centre of the
first gear.
2. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the foot supports
have means for posture stabilisation thereof relative to the frame
throughout a full movement path cycle of said foot supports.
3. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the crank device has
means for adjusting location of the foot supports on the outer
crank arm in the course of an ongoing workout session, so to change
the size or character of a motion or path.
4. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the crank device has
adjustment means for adjusting during an ongoing workout session an
orbital or rectilinear path of said foot rests and its inclination
relative to the horizontal.
5. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the crank device is
operatively linked to a man machine interface system (MMI) and
control device for user input and monitoring.
6. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the outer crank arm
has means for stabilising the posture of the foot support relative
to the frame when the foot support moves along a rectilinear or
orbital path, said stabilising means comprising: a set of pulleys
or gears rotationally attached on the outer crank arm, one pulley
of gear of said set connected with the second gear on the inner
crank arm and rotational movement transfer means for transferring
movement to at least a further pulley or gear of said set at a 1:2
motion, a foot support attached to such further pulley or gear
thereby being kept at specified posture relative to the crank
device frame.
7. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein there are means on
the crank device for adjusting the attachment location of the foot
support on the outer crank arm said outer crank arm having a number
of selectable attachment locations along a length portion of the
outer crank arm.
8. An apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said adjustment means
includes an electric motor with gears and, or a hydraulic system
with fluid cylinders.
9. An apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said adjustment means
is adapted to rotationally adjust and lock the first gear relative
to the frame.
10. An apparatus according to claim 9, wherein said adjustment
means for the first gear comprises a lever fixedly attached to the
first gear, said lever capable through movement thereof to rotate
the first gear, said lever has a locking function for positionally
stabilising the first gear relative to the frame.
11. An apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the foot supports are
attached to the foot support attachment means on the outer crank
arm, wherein said foot supports are caused to stay in an original
oriented, e.g. horizontal, position throughout an operation cycle
of the outer crank arm, wherein a first inner cog wheel is fixed to
the frame, wherein the first inner cog wheel is operatively engaged
with a second inner cog wheel by means of a chain, wherein the
second inner cog wheel is fixed relative to a pulley or said second
gear on the outer crank arm, said pulley or second gear being
interactive with at least a further pulley or gear on the outer
crank arm to provide said attachment means.
12. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a transfer ratio
between said first inner cog wheel and the pulleys or gears to
which the foot supports are attached is 1:1, wherein a transfer
ratio between the first and second inner cog wheels is 2:1, and
wherein a transfer ratio between said pulley or said second gear
and said further pulley or gear on the outer crank arm is 1:2.
13. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the crank device
comprises: a first cog wheel which is rotationally attached on the
outer crank aim, the first cog wheel being connected with the
second gear on the inner crank arm for transferring a 1:2 ratio
motion to a second cog wheel on the outer crank arm through use of
a chain, said second cog wheel having attachment means for the foot
support, said the outer crank arm having a third cog wheel with
alternative attachment means for the foot support, said third cog
wheel linked to the second cog wheel with a chain at a transfer
ratio 1:1.
14. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a first worm gear is
rotationally fixed on the outer crank arm, stationary relative to
the inner crank arm, to transferring a 4:1 motion to at least a
second worm gear which in turn transfers a 1:8 motion to a third
worm gear with attachment means for the foot support, the gear
ratio between the first and third worm gears being a 1:2 ratio.
15. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the adjustment means
comprise a first adjustment gear located relative to the crank
device frame for receiving externally applied activating movements,
said first adjustment gear connected to a second adjustment gear
located on the inner crank arm, said second adjustment gear
connected to a fourth adjustment gear through engagement with a
third adjustment gear the fourth adjustment gear in a fixed
attachment with a fifth adjustment gear which has a sixth
adjustment gear unit connected to threaded bolts which in turn are
connected to a foot supporting piece which is slidable relative to
the outer crank arm.
16. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through a full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a third gear attached to the foot
support axle, said third gear engaging a fourth gear attached to
the outer crank axle through belt or chain, and wherein the fourth
gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner crank arm
to a fifth gear driven by a further chain or belt in engagement
with a non-rotatable fifth gear on the frame.
17. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a first conical gear attached to
the pedal axle, said first conical gear engaging a second conical
gear attached to the outer crank axle through a rigid or telescopic
drive axle with conical gears at either end thereof, and wherein
the second gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner
crank arm to a third gear driven by a second chain or belt in
engagement with a non-rotatable fourth gear on the frame.
18. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said foot supports
are foot platforms or pedals provided with an actuable tilt
function being transverse of movement direction of the foot
support.
19. An apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the foot support is
a platform is fixed to a supportive platform frame, wherein the
frame is tiltable and fixedly attached to a body with an axle, tilt
motion being limited by a bolt and a curved track, the curved track
having at a location there-along an recess into which the bolt is
forced by a spring, the bolt position being controlled by a lever
which has two positions, the first position forcing the bolt into
the curved track to give a tilt motion to the platform, and the
second position relieving the force on the bolt to make the spring
to force the bolt into the track recess.
20. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said foot support
means are foot platforms or pedals with a toe-heel tilt function
means providing tilt motion being parallel to movement direction of
the foot support tilt motion occurring at transitional positions
providing a change of foot support movement direction during a
revolution of the crank arms.
21. An apparatus according to claim 20, wherein the foot support is
a platform attachable to a platform frame which is hinged to a
supportive body with a cylindrical room which comprise a cylinder
attached to inside walls through use of bearings, the cylinder
having a boss for stationary attachment to a crank arm, the boss
and cylinder being hollow for a bolt stationary attached to the
body, the bolt being made for attachment to a crank arm means for
stabilising a momentary posture of the platform, platform frame
having a circular hole with a peg and a spring, wherein a ring
attached in an offset manner around the cylinder is located, and
wherein a rotation of the crank keeps the platform at set posture,
and wherein the cylinder rotates relative to the supportive body
and platform frame, making the ring rocking the frame as result of
the rotation of the ring and its contact with the peg and spring,
the ring set at such angle that a rotation of the crank creates a
tilt upwards of a toe end of the platform at the most forward
position of the movement path of the foot support and a tilt
upwards of the heel end of the platform at the rear position of the
platform path.
22. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the crank device is
connected to means of physical resistance, said means comprising a
flywheel connected to a rotating part of the crank device by belt
and pulleys, and wherein an eddy current brake system provides
brake force to the flywheel.
23. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a centre crank axle
is positioned through a first wheel having means to drive the
flywheel, the flywheel positioned in a space between the inner
crank arms and rotatable around the centre crank axle, said drive
means being a second wheel tensioned to the first wheel through use
of a second axle and connected to a third wheel operative with a
belt or chain for distributing rotation of the crank to a fourth
wheel on the flywheel.
24. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein a centre crank axle
is positioned through a first wheel having means to drive a
flywheel positioned with its axis of rotation parallel to the first
wheel, and wherein the drive means comprises a second wheel
tensioned relative to the first wheel and attached to a second axle
which is connected to a third wheel operative with a belt or chain
for distributing rotation of the crank to a fourth wheel on the
flywheel.
25. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said movement
braking means capable of interacting on the flywheel for applying a
braking or rotational speed retard force is electable from one of:
a friction belt, a brake shoe unit, an electro magnetic device, and
eddy-current based device.
26. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the crank device is
connected to a flywheel providing physical resistance, the flywheel
being connected to a rotating part of the crank device by means of
belt and pulleys, and wherein an electric DC motor through use of
adjustable power supply is able to provide either movement brake
force or drive force to the flywheel.
27. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the crank device is
connected to means for driving, said means comprising a motor
connected to a rotating part of the crank device by belt and
pulleys or directly with gears, and wherein an electric motor
provides drive force to the crank arms.
28. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus has
means for measuring, processing a display related to the weight of
a user, weight scale technology means and related sensors being
located at one of the following locations on the apparatus:
apparatus floor supports; in a part of the frame which carries the
main crank axle on foot supporting means.
29. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus has
means for providing a tilt motion to a main five of the apparatus
transversely of a longitudinal direction of the apparatus.
30. An apparatus according to claim 29, wherein the means for
providing a tilt motion comprise a support with curved
cross-section located underneath the frame between the frame and a
floor on which the apparatus is placed and in said longitudinal
direction, and spring means attached to the frame on either side of
the support.
31. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein one end of a pair of
rods is connected to a circular, eccentrically moving part on the
crank device, and wherein the other end of the rods are operative
with a pair of said reciprocable handles, movement of said handles
being continuously related to the operation of the crank device
powered via pushing force applied to said foot supports.
32. An apparatus according to claim 31, characterized in that the
rods operative with said the handles are connected to the crank
device at a location between the inner crank arms thereof.
33. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the crank device has
adjustment means for adjusting an orbital or rectilinear path of
said foot rests and its inclination relative to the horizontal, the
crank device tiltably attached to the frame, and wherein a threaded
bolt linked to the frame keeps the crank device in position,
turning of the bolt causing the crank device to be tilted.
34. An apparatus according to claim 33, wherein turning of the bolt
is assisted by a motor, suitably via a drive gear.
35. An apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the size of the
orbit or path of the foot supports is adjustable depending on speed
of crank rotation and speed of foot support travel along the path,
wherein the MMI system includes sensors and processing means, said
system processing signals to actuate a motor or pump to adjust the
location of foot supports on the outer crank arms.
36. An apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the size of the
orbital or rectilinear path of the foot supports is adjustable by
an apparatus user through use of a display provided with a keypad
or touch screen.
37. A training or exercise apparatus according to claim 5, wherein
the man machine interface (MMI) system has input, control and
adjustment means related to one or more of: paths of motion or
style of training related to walking, jogging, running, climbing or
skiing; stride length, angle of orbital or rectilinear path
relative to the horizontal; level of brake force acting on the
flywheel, personal workout levels, caloric burn rates, heart or
pulse rate, physical condition of user and weight and height.
38. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame has two
crank devices utilising cardanic motion, wherein the outer crank
arms are linked together for synchronised operation through use of
connecting bars, said bars providing means for foot support.
39. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame has one
crank device utilising cardanic motion and a second crank wheel,
wherein outer crank arm on the crank device is articulated linked
with a connecting bar which is slidably connected with slide means
on the crank wheel, said bars forming means for foot support.
40. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame has one
crank device utilising cardanic motion and a second crank wheel,
wherein outer crank arm on the crank device is articulated and
slidably linked to a connecting bar which is rotatably connected to
the crank wheel, said bars forming means for foot support.
41. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein outer crank arm on
the crank device is articulated and slidably linked to a connecting
bar, which is rotatably, connected a rear part of the apparatus
frame, said bars forming means for foot support.
42. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the frame has one
crank device utilising cardanic motion and a second crank wheel,
and wherein outer crank arm on the crank device is articulated
linked with a connecting bar, which is rotatably connected with the
crank wheel, said member forming means for foot support.
43. An apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the crank device and
the crank wheel have synchronised motion as regards rotation cycle
period.
44. An apparatus according to claim 38, wherein a pair of handles
is operatively linked to a forward end of the connecting bars,
respectively, said pair of handles being pivoted to an upright
member on the apparatus frame, whereby the handles exhibit a
reciprocal tilting movement when the connecting bars move during a
rotation cycle of said crank device(s).
45. A foot support for use with a stationary apparatus for physical
exercise, said apparatus having a crank device with outer crank
arms, wherein the foot support in one operational position is
non-tiltable sideways relative to its crank caused direction of
movement, and wherein the foot support in a second operational
position is tiltable sideways relative to its crank caused
direction of movement.
46. A foot support for use with an a stationary apparatus for
physical exercise, said apparatus having a crank device with outer
crank arms, wherein the foot support is a foot supporting platform
interactive with posture control means in said crank device to
retain the foot support in tan unchanged posture, e.g. horizontal,
throughout an entire path cycle of the foot support.
47. A crank device for use with an apparatus for physical exercise,
said crank device connectable to foot supports for a user in order
to drive the crank device, said device comprising: a pair of crank
arms each comprised of at least two parts, a first part being an
inner crank arm and a second part being an outer crank arm, an
inner crank arm axle to which said inner crank arm is rotationally
attached, a first gear forming a sun gear through which said inner
crank arm axle rotatably extends, said first gear being fixedly
attached to a crank device frame, a second gear rotatably attached
to an outer end of the inner crank, said outer crank arm at one end
fixedly attached to said second gear and at the other end carrying
said foot support, said first and seconds gears having a
transmission ratio of 2:1, and means connecting the first and
second gears to enable the second gear to revolve around or along
the first gear when human force leg force is applied to said foot
support, wherein a first distance defined to be between a foot
support attachment point on the outer crank arm and a centre of the
second gear is equal to or larger than a second distance defined to
be between the centre of the second gear and inner crank axle or
centre of the first gear.
48. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein said first gear
is a sun gear, said first gear having means attached thereto for
rotational positional adjustment relative to said crank device
frame.
49. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein said means
rotationally interconnecting said first and second gears comprises
one of: at least two intermediate gears attached to said inner
crank arm, a set of cog wheels interacting with chains or toothed
belts, a set of pulleys and connected belts, at least a pair of
conical gear units with interconnecting rigid or extendible.
50. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the first gear is
located in a housing and formed inwardly directed gear teeth,
wherein the inner crank arm is at one end rotationally supported at
a centre of the first gear and at the other end supporting the
second gear to enable the second gear to rotate along the toothed
inner perimeter of the housing forming said first gear, and wherein
the outer crank arm being fixedly attached to the second gear has
said first dimension substantially longer than the second
dimension.
51. A crank device according to claim 50, wherein the ratio between
said first dimension and said second dimension ranges from
approximately 2:1 to 5:1.
52. A crank device according to claim 48, wherein said adjustment
means for the first gear comprises a lever fixedly attached to the
first gear, said lever capable through movement thereof to rotate
the first gear, said lever has a locking function positionally
stabilising the first gear relative to the frame.
53. A crank device according to claim 52, wherein the lever
operable by means of a motor via a geared transmission, and wherein
adjustment operation of the lever adjusts angle of motion and path
described by said foot supports.
54. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein said foot
supports are foot platforms or pedals provided with an actuable
tilt function being transverse of movement direction of the foot
support.
55. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein said foot support
means are foot platforms or pedals with a toe-heel tilt function
means providing tilt motion being parallel to movement direction of
the foot support, tilt motion occurring at transitional positions
providing a change of foot support movement direction during a
revolution of the crank arms.
56. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the outer crank
arm has means for stabilising the posture of the foot support
relative to the frame when the foot support moves along a
rectilinear or orbital path, said stabilising means comprising: a
set of pulleys or gears rotationally attached on the outer crank
arm, one pulley or gear of said set connected with the second gear
on the inner crank arm and rotational movement transfer means for
transferring movement to at least a further pulley or gear of said
set at a 1:2 motion, a foot support attached to such further pulley
or gear thereby being kept at specified posture relative to the
crank device frame throughout a full cycle of movement of the foot
support.
57. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the outer crank
arm has means for stabilising the posture of the foot support
relative to the frame when the foot support moves along a
rectilinear or orbital path, said stabilising means comprising: a
first cog wheel which is rotationally attached on the outer crank
arm, the first cog wheel being connected with the second gear on
the inner crank arm for transferring a 1:2 ratio motion to a second
cog wheel on the outer crank arm through use of a chain, said
second cog wheel having attachment means for the foot support, said
the outer crank arm having a third cog wheel with alternative
attachment means for the foot support, said third cog wheel linked
to the second cog wheel with a chain at a transfer ratio 1:1.
58. A crank device according to claim 56, wherein a first worm gear
is rotationally fixed on the outer crank arm, stationary relative
to the inner crank arm, to transferring a 4:1 motion to at least a
second worm gear which in turn transfers a 1:8 motion to a third
worm gear with attachment means for the foot support, the gear
ratio between the first and third worm gears being a 1:2 ratio.
59. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through a full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a third gear attached to the foot
support axle, said third gear engaging a fourth gear attached to
the outer crank axle through belt or chain, and wherein the fourth
gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner crank arm
to a fifth gear driven by a further chain or belt in engagement
with a non-rotatable fifth gear on the frame.
60. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a first conical gear attached to
the pedal axle, said first conical gear engaging a second conical
gear attached to the outer crank axle through a rigid or telescopic
drive axle with conical gears at either end thereof, and wherein
the second gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner
crank arm to a third gear driven by a second chain or belt in
engagement with a non-rotatable fourth gear on the frame.
61. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the first
dimension of the outer crank arms relative to the second dimension
of the inner crank arms defines the size, shape and direction of
foot supports movement path when set in motion.
62. A crank device according to claim 61, wherein the size of
orbital or rectilinear path of the foot supports is defined as the
relation between path length=PL and path height=PH, wherein the
first dimension length of outer crank arm=OCAL, wherein the second
dimension length of the inner crank arm=ICAL, and wherein the
movement path of the foot supports is defined as a function of:
PL=2.times.ICAL+2.times.OCAL and PH=2.times.OCAL-2.times.ICAL.
63. A crank device according to claim 62, wherein when OCAL>ICAL
and when outer crank arms are set in motion, the foot supports
provide the foot supports with an elliptical orbital path and with
movement there along in an opposite movement direction of the inner
crank arms and axle.
64. A crank device according to claim 62, the foot support motion
will follow a straight line when OCAL=ICAL.
65. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein there are
adjustment means on the crank device for adjusting on the outer
crank arm the distance between attachment location for the foot
support and location of attachment of the outer crank arm to the
second gear, the adjustment means comprising one of: an electric
motor on the outer crank arm with gears and/or threaded bolts a
hydraulic system with fluid cylinders, a number of attachment
locations along the length of the outer crank arm for selective
attachment of the foot support.
66. A crank device according to claim 65, wherein the adjustment
means comprise a first adjustment gear located relative to the
crank device frame for receiving externally applied activating
movements, said first adjustment gear connected to a second
adjustment gear located on the inner crank arm, said second
adjustment gear connected to a fourth adjustment gear through
engagement with a third adjustment gear the fourth adjustment gear
in a fixed attachment with a fifth adjustment gear which has a
sixth adjustment gear unit connected to threaded bolts which in
turn are connected to a foot supporting piece which is slidable
relative to the outer crank arm.
67. A crank device according to claim 47, wherein the crank device
is connected to means of physical resistance, said means comprising
a flywheel connected to a rotating part of the crank device by belt
and pulleys, and wherein an eddy current brake system provides
brake force to the flywheel.
68. A crank device according to claim 54, wherein the foot support
is a platform is fixed to a supportive platform frame, wherein the
frame is tiltable and fixedly attached to a body with an axle, tilt
motion being limited by a bolt and a curved track, the curved track
having at a location there-along an recess into which the bolt is
forced by a spring, the bolt position being controlled by a lever
which has two positions, the first position forcing the bolt into
the curved track to give a tilt motion to the platform, and the
second position relieving the force on the bolt to make the spring
to force the bolt into the track recess.
69. A crank device according to claim 55, wherein the foot support
is a platform attachable to a platform frame which is hinged to a
supportive body with a cylindrical room which comprise a cylinder
attached to inside walls through use of bearings, the cylinder
having a boss for stationary attachment to a crank arm, the boss
and cylinder being hollow for a bolt stationarily attached to the
body, the bolt being made for attachment to a crank arm means for
stabilising a momentary posture of the platform, platform frame
having a circular hole with a peg and a spring, wherein a ring
attached in an offset manner around the cylinder is located, and
wherein a rotation of the crank keeps the platform at set posture,
and wherein the cylinder rotates relative to the supportive body
and platform frame, making the ring rocking the frame as result of
the rotation of the ring and its contact with the peg and spring,
the ring set at such angle that a rotation of the crank creates a
tilt upwards of a toe end of the platform at the most forward
position of the movement path of the foot support and a tilt
upwards of the heel end of the platform at the rear position of the
platform's path.
70. A crank device for use with an apparatus for physical exercise,
said crank device connectable to foot supports for a user in order
to drive the crank device, said device comprising: a pair of crank
aims each comprised of at least two parts, a first part being an
inner crank arm and a second part being an outer crank arm, an
inner crank arm axle to which said inner crank arm is rotationally
attached, a first gear forming a sun gear through which said inner
crank arm axle rotatably extends, said first gear being fixedly
attached to a crank device frame, a second gear rotatably attached
to an outer end of the inner crank arm, said outer crank arm at one
end fixedly attached to said second gear and at the other end
carrying said foot support, said first and seconds gears having a
transmission ratio of 2:1, and means connecting the first and
second gears to enable the second gear to revolve around or along
the first gear when human force leg force is applied to said foot
support, wherein the outer crank arm has means for stabilising
posture of the foot support relative to the frame throughout a full
cycle of a path followed by said foot support, said stabilising
means comprising: a set of pulleys or gears rotationally attached
to the outer arm, and linked with the inner crank arm for
transferring a 1:2 motion ratio to the foot support to maintain
said stabilised posture, and movement transferring means between
said pulleys or gears.
71. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein a first cog wheel
is rotationally attached on the outer crank arm, the first cog
wheal being connected with the second gear on the inner crank arm
for transferring a 1:2 motion to a second cog wheel on the outer
crank arm through use of a chain, said second cog wheel having
attachment means for the foot support, the outer crank arm having a
third cog wheel with alternative attachment means for the foot
support, said third cog wheel linked to the second cog wheal with a
chain at transfer ratio 1:1.
72. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein a first worm gear
is rotationally fixed on the outer crank arm, stationary relative
to the inner crank arm, to transferring a 4:1 motion to at least a
second worm gear which in turn transfers a 1:8 motion to a third
worm gear with attachment means for the foot support, the gear
ratio between the first and third worn gears being a 1:2 ratio.
73. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through a full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a third gear attached to the foot
support axle, said third gear engaging a fourth gear attached to
the outer crack axle through belt or chain, and wherein the fourth
gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner crank arm
to a fifth gear driven by a further chain or belt in engagement
with a non-rotatable fifth gear on the frame.
74. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein the foot supports
have means for controlling their angle relative to the horizontal
through full cycle of movement path of the foot supports, wherein
said controlling means consist of a first conical gear attached to
the pedal axle, said first conical gear engaging a second conical
gear attached to the outer crank axle through a rigid or telescopic
drive axle with conical gears at either end thereof, and wherein
the second gear is fixed on an axle which extends through the inner
crank arm to a third gear driven by a second chain or belt in
engagement with a non-rotatable fourth gear on the frame.
75. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein there are
adjustment means on the crank device for adjusting on the outer
crank arm the distance between attachment location for the foot
support and location of attachment of the outer crank arm to the
second gear, the adjustment means comprising one of: an electric
motor on the outer crank arm with gears and/or threaded bolts, a
hydraulic system with fluid cylinders, a number of attachment
locations along the length of the outer crank arm for selective
attachment of the foot support.
76. A crank device according to claim 75, wherein the adjustment
means comprise a first adjustment gear located relative to the
crank device frame for receiving externally applied activating
movements, said first adjustment gear connected to a second
adjustment gear located on the inner crank arm, said second
adjustment gear connected to a fourth adjustment gear through
engagement with a third adjustment gear, the fourth adjustment gear
in a fixed attachment with a fifth adjustment gear which has a
sixth adjustment gear unit connected to threaded bolts which in
turn are connected to a foot supporting piece which is slidable
relative to the outer crank arm.
77. A crank device according to claim 70 where the first gear has
means for a rotational positional setting adjustment relative to
the frame.
78. A crank device according to claim 71, wherein said adjustment
means for the first gear comprises a lever fixedly attached to the
first gear, said lever capable through movement thereof to rotate
the first gear, said and lever has a locking function positionally
stabilising the first gear relative to the frame.
79. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein said foot
supports are foot platforms or pedals provided with an actuable
tilt function being transverse of movement direction of the foot
support.
80. A crank device according to claim 79, wherein the foot support
is a platform is fixed to a supportive platform frame, wherein the
frame is tiltable and fixedly attached to a body with an axle, tilt
motion being limited by a bolt and a curved track, the curved track
having at a location there-along an recess into which the bolt is
forced by a spring, the bolt position being controlled by a lever
which has two positions, the first position forcing the bolt into
the curved track to give a tilt motion to the platform, and the
second position relieving the force on the bolt to make the spring
to force the bolt into the track recess.
81. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein said foot support
means are foot platforms or pedals with a toe-heel tilt function
means providing tilt motion being parallel to movement direction of
the foot support, tilt motion occurring at transitional positions
providing a change of foot support movement direction during a
revolution of the crank arms.
82. A crank device according to claim 81, wherein the foot support
is a platform attachable to a platform frame which is hinged to a
supportive body with a cylindrical room which comprise a cylinder
attached to inside walls through use of bearings, the cylinder
having a boss for stationary attachment to a crank arm, the boss
and cylinder being hollow for a bolt stationarily attached to the
body, the bolt being made for attachment to a crank arm means for
stabilising a momentary posture of the platform, platform frame
having a circular hole with a peg and a spring, wherein a ring
attached in an offset manner around the cylinder is located, and
wherein a rotation of the crank keeps the platform at set posture,
and wherein the cylinder rotates relative to the supportive body
and platform frame, making the ring rocking the frame as result of
the rotation of the ring and its contact with the peg and spring,
the ring set at such angle that a rotation of the crank creates a
tilt upwards of a toe end of the platform at the most forward
position of the movement path of the foot support and a tilt
upwards of the heel end of the platform at the rear position of the
platform's path.
83. A crank device according to claim 70, wherein the crank device
is connected to means of physical resistance, said means comprising
a flywheel connected to a rotating part of the crank device by belt
and pulleys, and wherein an eddy current brake system provides
brake force to the flywheel.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to an apparatus for physical
exercise, and a crank device and foot supporting platforms for use
with such apparatus, as defined in the introductory part of the
attached independent claims. The invention is useful to provide for
a choice among a plurality of different workout options related to
simulation of movements, and to provide means for adjustment
thereof according to user defined options.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The benefits of regular aerobic exercise are well
established and accepted. Because the major population in the
western world live close together in towns and cities, far from the
countryside and because of inclement weather, time constraints and
for other reasons, it is not always possible to walk, jog, run or
ski outdoors. Various types of indoor exercise equipment have been
developed for aerobic exercise and to exercise leg muscles commonly
used in walking, running, skiing, and other outdoors activities.
Such apparatus include treadmills, stepping machines, and various
types of sliding machines. Although effective to some extent, they
all have disadvantages. Treadmills have the drawback of producing
high impact on the user's hips, back, legs and knees. One approach
that minimizes the tear on joints is to use a stair stepper. Stair
steppers, however, do not develop all of the muscles commonly used
in running. Furthermore, such machines are difficult to use in
sprint type exercises. Finally, apparatus of the sliding type
require the user to slide his/her feet back and forth along a
horizontal plane. Such movement does not mimic running and thus
offers exercise only to a limited range of muscles.
[0003] Combining these kinds of apparatus with an indoor training
bicycle one would hope to have a variety of training options for
aerobic exercise. This however would require a lot of floor space.
To give a maximum aerobic exercise, combined with a simulation of
walking, jogging and running without straining the users joints and
to save floor space, there has for long been a need to provide an
improved range of a new type of training apparatus often denoted as
elliptical trainers or cross trainers.
[0004] There is thus a great demand for training equipment capable
of simulating a movement of the legs and feet, as they naturally
would move when walking, jogging, running, skiing, climbing or
performing a range of stepping motions.
[0005] A single apparatus capable of providing to highly
satisfactory degree exercise assistance to such large variety of
simulated movements is yet to be found on the market.
[0006] On the market today there is however available some exercise
equipment of elliptical or cross trainer type aiming to provide
such assistance, although so with more or less success. Worth
mentioning as examples are products from Tunturi, LifeFitness, Icon
and Precor. The aim of these trainers is to achieve an elliptical
like orbit of user's feet during a workout similar to that commonly
encountered during walking or running. Since the user's feet never
leave the foot rails, minimal impact is produced. Training
apparatus creating an orbit to pedals or platforms in an elliptical
shape, are more than often built quite big to the required stride
length. They also often have big crank wheels and many bars linked
to each other and such trainers have limited means for adjustment
of stride length and orbit of the pedals or platforms.
[0007] The present invention thus intends to solve inherent
shortcomings of currently available exercise apparatus, and the
present invention therefore intends to provide various embodiments
of a single multifunctional piece of equipment or exercise
apparatus which may be utilised to assist simulation of different
exercises, including walking, jogging, running, skiing and climbing
without imparting shock to the user's body joints in the manner of
exercise treadmills. The inventive apparatus replaces treadmills,
all types of steppers, elliptic operation type of apparatus, cross
trainers, skiing exercise apparatus and various types of indoors
training bikes.
[0008] Another aspect of the invention is strengthening of the
joints and more specifically the muscles and tendons. Training
during instability, also called proprioseptive training, has shown
positive effects strengthening the muscles round joints. A medical
study using unstable pedals during training proves significant
results. Such pedals are shown in publication WO00/68067 assigned
Flexiped AS. The medical test mentioned was published in
Scandinavian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports, Vol. 13,
issue 4, August 2003, author: Dr. Per Hoiness. The present
invention offers inclusion of elements of instability, specifically
regarding supporting means for the feet. The feet supports will
optionally be able to tilt transversely of the path of motion, and
in addition have the ability to tilt parallel to the path of
motion, to give a toe-heel movement.
[0009] Producing circular, elliptical and linear motions using two
wheels, which interact and have the ratio of 2:1 is known already
from the Renaissance when G. Cardano invented this concept and
today often referred to as cardanic motion.
[0010] This concept is further explained in the publication "Method
of synthesis of cardanic motion" by Aleksander Sekulic published no
later than Dec. 1, 1998. This concept is utilized in different
crank solutions mostly for bicycles but also described as a method
in combustion engines. (See for example principle at
www.flying-pig.co.uk/mechanism)
[0011] However, contrary to versatility of the apparatus of the
present invention, neither of the mentioned prior art devices, nor
other prior art devices are capable of achieving an optimal
elliptical movement with means for easily adjustments of the path
and motion in the way the present invention provides, and through
use of an elected embodiment of exercise apparatus according to the
invention being able to provide the great variety of assistance to
simulated movements required for efficient and correct and optimal
physical training, exercise or therapy.
[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the invention it is intended to
provide an exercise apparatus with assisting handles for arm
movement and for assisting in simulating a range of stepping
motions, including walking, jogging, running, climbing and skiing,
and with means for manually or automatically adjusting motions from
a linear to elliptical path or elliptical like path to the footrest
for user's feet.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0013] It is thus an object of the present invention to provide
improved exercise apparatus that provides for a plurality of
motions ranging from linear to elliptical or elliptical like foot
movement similar to that of walking, jogging, running, climbing and
skiing.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide the
above exercising apparatus with means for producing any desired
path or movement wanted by the user, and more specifically provide
for selective adjustment to match e.g. stride of the user, size of
orbit and the type of exercise chosen, preferably with
automatically means.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a
controlled posture and angle of the feet supports related to the
exercise apparatus to match the stride and any movement required by
the user.
[0016] Yet a further object of the present invention is to provide
tilting of feet supports being operative on the exercise apparatus
to create a degree of instability, which imposes challenges to the
muscles and balance of the user.
[0017] Still another object of the present invention is to provide
an exercise apparatus, which requires minimal space to operate and
store, yet is still easy to operate, simple and reliable in
operation and maintenance, and provides a cost-efficient piece of
exercise apparatus capable of providing a greater variety of modes
of use in a single piece of equipment compared with prior art
devices.
[0018] Further, the present invention also aims at providing a
crank device useful for the exercise apparatus and which provides
for a greater range of modes of use, and is capable of contributing
to the versatility previous unknown to a single piece of apparatus
for physical exercise.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] The invention utilises cardanic motion for producing a
plurality of motions in a training or exercise apparatus. The
motions are provided by a crank mechanism utilising cardanic motion
which on each side of an axle has a disc, sprocket, cog or gear,
here referred to as a sun gear, which is fixed relative to a second
gear of half the size which revolves around the sun gear. The
second gear is rotationally fixed on a crank arm, with an axle
rotationally running through the sun gear. The rotational motion of
the second gear is produced through a linkage to the sun gear, the
linkage being gears, belts, chains or other mechanical transmission
means. To the second gear is fixed a second crank arm, which has
foot-supporting means. The foot supports in a preferred embodiment
have means for controlling stability and angle relative to the
motion.
[0020] The training apparatus according to the invention has
mechanical means for adjusting a length of the crank arms, e.g.
through use of motors and gears. The length of the crank arm
decides the size and shape of the orbit and is preferably
automatically adjustable dependent on speed or desired stride
length. The orientation of the inventive crank system may be
adjustable rotated in order to change the inclination of the path
and motion, the rotation of the system preferably assisted by a
motor. There are linkages between the fixed gear, the sun gear,
preferably through use of gears, and the foot supporting means for
stabilising and keeping a correct angle relative to an apparatus
frame during a full rotation. The foot supporting means have also
means for adjusting the angle to create a toe-heel tilt. The foot
supporting means in form of platforms have optional tilt movement
with an adjustable mechanism, the movement transverse the stepping
motion, for utilising proprioceptive training and exercise.
[0021] In a further aspect of the present invention, a flywheel is
mounted on a portion of the frame connected so to rotate as result
of the crank movements. The flywheel serves as a momentum-storing
device to simulate the momentum of the body during various stepping
motions. Resistance may be applied to the rotation of the flywheel,
to make the motion harder or easier to achieve. This resistance may
be co-ordinated with the workout level desired by the user. Similar
kind of system is found on training/exercise apparatus, such as
ergo-meter bikes, spinning bikes, cross trainers and the like.
[0022] The exercise apparatus would in a preferred embodiment
include handlebars, which move as part of a training exercise. The
handle bars would be pivotally fixed to a forward part of the
training apparatus and hinged to bars linked to rotational parts of
the crank mechanism in such a way that the bars move in an opposite
direction relative to the feet supports giving a full
cardiovascular workout.
[0023] Finally the exercise apparatus includes a user input,
monitoring and control device, hereinafter referred to as a man
machine interface device (MMI) which allows the user to adjust the
machine so to achieve desired motion, speed, resistance and path,
it being walking, jogging, running, climbing or skiing. The MMI
device is preferably of a touch-screen type but could also be a
combination of a display/screen and a panel of buttons. The
characteristic features of the apparatus and the crank device will
appear from the attached independent claims, and further
embodiments thereof will appear from the related sub-claims. Also,
these and other features and related advantages of the present
invention will be apparent from the attached drawings and
description to follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] The technical features of the invention, the wide range of
exercise modes offered, and the inherent improvements over the
prior art will be described with reference to accompanying
drawings, which illustrates preferred embodiments of the invention
by example and in which:
[0025] FIGS. 1a-1c show a side view, top view and a front view of
an inventive crank device, respectively for use in an apparatus of
the invention;
[0026] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of the crank device shown in
FIG. 1;
[0027] FIGS. 3a-3d show a flywheel and drive assembly in side view,
front view, and enlarged fractional front and perspective
views;
[0028] FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the flywheel and drive
assembly;
[0029] FIGS. 5a-5b show alternative embodiments related to flywheel
connection;
[0030] FIGS. 6a-6d illustrate motions of pedals provided through
use of the crank device of present invention and the motions
relative to available variations in dimensions;
[0031] FIGS. 7a-7h show the movement of crank arms during a full
orbit;
[0032] FIG. 8 illustrates a first embodiment of working principle
of the invention;
[0033] FIGS. 9a and 9b illustrate second and third variants of the
embodiment in FIG. 8;
[0034] FIG. 10 shows a foot support capable of being forcibly held
in a horizontal position through a full elliptic orbit;
[0035] FIGS. 11a, 11b and 11c, 11d show schematically and as
example first and second transmission embodiments related to
position control mechanism for foot supports;
[0036] FIGS. 12a and 12b show a side view and a front view,
respectively, of another and further advanced crank device
according to the invention;
[0037] FIG. 13 shows a perspective view of the embodiment shown in
FIG. 12 plus additional attachable cover;
[0038] FIGS. 14a and 14b show exemplifying first and second means
for lengthening of crank arms;
[0039] FIGS. 15a and 15b show in side view and front view a
solution to combine the technical aspects of the invention shown on
FIGS. 11 and 14;
[0040] FIG. 16 shows a block schematic of adjustable automatic
stride control;
[0041] FIGS. 17a-17c show in top plan view, side view and front
view a foot supporting platform with tilt motion;
[0042] FIGS. 18a and 18b show a multi-mode pedal with provisions
for either sideways tilt motion and conventional operational
mode;
[0043] FIG. 19a-19c show in operational side and perspective views,
as well as collapsed view a training or exercise apparatus making
use of the invention, provide with movable foot supporting
platforms and operationally stationary handlebars;
[0044] FIGS. 20a-20c show a training/exercise apparatus making use
of the invention with movable foot supporting platforms and
simultaneously movable handlebars;
[0045] FIGS. 21a-21c show in schematic front view, and first and
second perspective views a crank device according to the invention
as shown in FIG. 12 with additional means for adjustment of path
inclination;
[0046] FIGS. 21d-21e show in schematic front view, and first and
second perspective views a modification of the embodiment shown in
FIGS. 21a-21c, the modification to enable a foot support always to
stay horizontal throughout its movement cycle.
[0047] FIGS. 22a-22c show various stages of movement of crank arm
and foot supporting platform related to the embodiment of FIGS. 12
and 13;
[0048] FIGS. 23a-23e show schematically preferred and available
orbital and rectilinear movement paths for pedal and foot
supporting platform;
[0049] FIG. 24 shows a block schematic of training/exercise
apparatus and system according to the invention for adjustment of
orbital and rectilinear paths;
[0050] FIGS. 25a-25c show in front perspective, rear perspective
and side views a training/exercise apparatus with inventive crank
device and movable handles;
[0051] FIG. 26 shows an exercise apparatus with a crank device;
[0052] FIG. 27 shows an exercise apparatus with path adjustable
crank device and a reclining seat;
[0053] FIGS. 28a and 28b show in front and side view a compact type
of crank device according to the invention with inner gear
transmission;
[0054] FIG. 29 is a perspective view of the compact type crank
device according to FIG. 28;
[0055] FIGS. 30a and 30b show the motion of the compact type of
crank device according to FIGS. 28 and 29;
[0056] FIG. 31 shows a side view of a practical embodiment of an
exercise apparatus according to the present invention;
[0057] FIGS. 32a and 32b show perspective views of
training/exercise apparatus shown in FIG. 31;
[0058] FIG. 33 shows in top front perspective view from one side
structural details of a crank device suitably usable in an
apparatus as shown in FIGS. 31 and 32;
[0059] FIG. 34 shows a working principle used to give handlebars
movement for a training/exercise apparatus according to the
invention;
[0060] FIG. 35 shows in an enlarged, fractional view details of
handle bar mechanism suitable for use in an apparatus as shown in
FIGS. 31 and 32;
[0061] FIGS. 36a and 36a show in perspective view from one and the
other side a functional half of yet another crank device, according
to the invention, for use with an exercise apparatus of the
invention, and FIG. 36c shows a perspective view of the complete
crank device;
[0062] FIG. 37 shows an end view of the crank device half shown in
FIGS. 36a and 36b;
[0063] FIG. 38 shows an exploded view of a part of the crank device
of FIGS. 36 and 37 with lever means for inclination adjustment of
the crank device;
[0064] FIG. 39 shows an exploded view of an inner crank arm
assembly of the crank device as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37;
[0065] FIG. 40 shows a perspective view of the inner crank arm
assembly of the crank device as shown in FIG. 39;
[0066] FIG. 41 shows in a perspective and partly disassembled view
an outer crank arm assembly of the crank device as shown in FIGS.
36 and 37;
[0067] FIGS. 42a and 42b show perspective views of the outer crank
arm assembly of the crank device as shown in FIGS. 36 and 37, and
further as shown in FIG. 41;
[0068] FIG. 43a shows a front view of the outer crank assembly of
FIGS. 36, 37, 41 and 42, and
[0069] FIGS. 43b and 43c show sections XLIIIb-XLIIIb and XLIIIc and
XLIIIc in FIG. 43a;
[0070] FIG. 44 shows a section through the crank device as shown in
FIGS. 36 and 37;
[0071] FIG. 45 shows a perspective view with cutaway section
through the crank device as shown in FIGS. 36, 37 and 44;
[0072] FIG. 46 shows a top, rear perspective view of a modified
foot supporting platform with sideways tilt function;
[0073] FIGS. 47a-47e show bottom, side and rear views, and
longitudinal and transverse sections of the modified foot
supporting platform as shown in FIG. 46;
[0074] FIG. 48a is a top plan view and FIG. 48b is a perspective
view shown with a transverse section of the foot supporting
platform of FIG. 46, said platform for providing toe and heel
movement;
[0075] FIG. 49 shows an exploded view of a mechanism for providing
toe and heel motion of the platform as shown in FIG. 48;
[0076] FIG. 50 shows a perspective view of an enlarged fractional
part of the platform as shown in FIGS. 48 and 49;
[0077] FIG. 51 is a side view, partly shown in section of the
platform as shown in FIGS. 48 to 50, and related to section LI-LI
in FIG. 52;
[0078] FIG. 52 shows a rear view of the platform with structural
elements as shown in FIGS. 48 to 51;
[0079] FIG. 53 shows in an enlarged view detail the lower part
shown in FIG. 51;
[0080] FIG. 54 shows schematically tilting motion of the foot
supporting platform to provide up and down motion of toe and
heel;
[0081] FIG. 55 shows a block schematic of a man machine interface
system (MMI) according to the present invention;
[0082] FIG. 56 shows schematically a further improvement according
to the invention through an exercise apparatus a twin crank device
mechanism;
[0083] FIGS. 57a-57b show schematically another two variant
embodiments of a twin crank device operated training/exercise
apparatus;
[0084] FIG. 58 shows schematically yet another variant embodiment
of a twin crank device operated training/exercise apparatus;
[0085] FIG. 59 shows schematically a further embodiment of a
training/exercise apparatus of the invention using a single crank
device with linked bars;
[0086] FIGS. 60a-60c show schematically a further modified
embodiment of a twin crank device operated training/exercise
apparatus with telescopic bars linking the crank devices.
[0087] FIGS. 61a and 60b show perspective view and top view of
training apparatus with motor.
[0088] FIG. 62 shows block schematic of system for training
apparatus with motor.
[0089] FIG. 63 shows a perspective view of training apparatus with
motor connected to flywheel.
[0090] FIGS. 64a and 64b shows a schematic view of motor connection
in training apparatus.
[0091] FIG. 65 shows block schematic of system for training
apparatus shown in FIGS. 63 and 64.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0092] The following FIGS. 1-9 show a basic solution for creating
cardanic motion. The basic theory being of prior art, the
construction shown as an example of how to use such motion in an
apparatus for physical training, exercise and any related
therapy.
[0093] FIGS. 1 and 2 show a crank device assembly according to the
invention. On a frame 1 is mounted a crank assembly comprising a
pair of crank arms 2 and 3 rotationally linked together at
articulated joints and 5. Inner crank arms 6 and 7 are fixed
together by means of an axle 8. Outer crank arms 10 and 11 are
fixed through axles 12 and 13 to cog wheels 14 and 15 (see FIG. 2)
to be rotationally mounted on the inner crank arms 6 and 7. It is
specifically noted that the outer crank arms 10, 11 have a physical
length, which under no circumstances will be less than the physical
length of the inner crank arms 6, 7. In order to provide for a
crank device that is compact and yet offers a highly satisfactory
performance adapted to the requirements of an apparatus user, and
with the possibility of adjusting the length of the outer crank
arms to be equal to the length of the inner crank arms or more
suitably exceed the length of the inner crank arms by a certain
percentage, variations of path to be described by the pedals or
supporting platforms can easily be made.
[0094] To the frame 1 is fixedly attached non-rotary cog wheels 16
and 17. A circumference ratio between cog wheels 16 and 14, as well
as cog wheels 17 and 15 is 2:1. Chains 18 and 19 connects the cog
wheels 14, 16 and 15, 17. It should be understood that belt and
pulley arrangement or a toothed belt and cog wheels could replace
the chain and cog wheels approach. Further aspects of the
embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2 will be discussed in connection with
FIGS. 6-9, FIGS. 9a and 9b showing structural variants which,
however are functionally giving similar operation performance to an
apparatus user. The end portions of the outer crank arms have foot
supports, suitably in the form of pedals 20 and 21, but as
disclosed below and shown in the drawings, e.g. on FIG. 10, other
means of foot supports such as platforms are preferred to use the
full potential offered by this invention.
[0095] To the axle 8 is fixedly attached a wheel 22, which rotates
when the crank device is set in motion. As shown in FIGS. 3-4 a
wheel 24 runs on an inside perimeter of wheel 22. The wheel 24 is
connected to a wheel 25 via an axle 26 extending through a tension
block 27 fixed to the frame 1. The tensioning of the wheel 24
relative to wheel 22 is adjusted by screws 27' on the tension block
27. A flywheel 30 is located freely rotatable around the axle 8. A
belt 31 connects the flywheel 30 to wheel 25. As the crank arms are
set in motion the flywheel 30 is set in motion. The ratio between
wheels 22 and 24 is in the area of 10:3-10:1, but can be varied
depending on the size and wanted speed of the flywheel. The quoted
ratio is therefore not in any way critical.
[0096] It is desirable to monitor the rotational speed of the
flywheel or the crank wheels so as to measure the distance traveled
by a user of the inventive apparatus and also to control the level
of workout experienced by the user. The movement resistance and
simulated distance may be coordinated with the workout level
desired by the user, for instance, a desired heart rate range for
optimum caloric expenditure. A heart rate monitor or other sensors
may be utilised to sense the desired or required physical
parameters to be optimised during exercise. Any standard method of
measuring the speed of the flywheels may be utilised. For instance,
an optical or magnetic strobe wheel or pattern may be mounted on a
disk, or other rotating member, e.g. the wheel 22, of the present
apparatus. An optical or magnetic sensor 28 may monitor the
rotational speed of the strobe wheel 29 to generate an electrical
signal related to such rotational speed and whereby such signal can
be processed by a computer located e.g. on the apparatus. A man
machine interface system (MMI) and device will be described below
with reference to FIGS. 16, 24 and 55.
[0097] As shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b the flywheel 30 can also be
located spaced from the crank assembly and wheels 22, 25. The
apparatus of present invention includes a system for selectively
applying the braking or retarding force on the rotation of the
crank wheels through for example an eddy current brake system, such
as indicated on FIG. 4 by reference numeral 34. Such a brake system
is known in the art and used on training/exercise apparatus
currently on the market. Other brake devices that could be used
include using a belt running around the flywheel and provided with
means for varying the tensioning, or by using conventional brake
shoes interacting with the flywheel.
[0098] The possible motion of the crank arms is further shown in
FIGS. 6 and 7. As shown in FIG. 6 the result of one rotation of the
inner crank arms 6, 7 will give an elliptic orbit 40 at positions
of the pedals 20, 21. The length of the outer crank arm 10, 11, or
fixing point 41, 42 of the respective pedal decides the range (and
size) of travel as shown on FIG. 6b. When setting the pedals and
crank arms in motion, as indicated by arrow 48 on FIG. 7, the end
of the outer crank arm 10, 11 rotationally linked to the inner arm
6, 7 will travel as indicated by arrow 49. This is a result of a
rotating movement of the cog wheels 14, fixedly attached to the
respective inner crank arm 6, 7 and their travel along the chains
revolving around the fixed cog wheels 16, 17, thereby defining a
cardanic motion.
[0099] As shown in FIG. 6, whether an elliptic or circular orbit or
linear track will be described by the pedals when in motion will be
the result of choice of the length ICAL of the inner crank arm 6, 7
between a) its centre of rotation and b) is point of rotation with
the outer crank arm, se reference numeral 39 on FIG. 6b, and the
length OCAL of the outer crank arm 10, 11 between b) the point of
rotation with the inner crank arm (se reference numeral 47) and c)
the point of rotation with the pedal or supporting platform (se
reference numerals 41, 42 or 43. Thus, as disclosed in FIG. 6d and
which is related to FIGS. 6a-6c, PL is length of path (orbital or
rectilinear) described by the pedal or supporting platform, i.e.
the stride length, and PH is height of path (orbital or
rectilinear).
[0100] The following equations (Eqs. 1, 2 and 3) will determine the
orbital paths, given that the circumferential ratio between cog
wheels 16, 14 and 17, 15 is as disclosed before, i.e. 2:1.
PL=2.times.ICAL+2.times.OCAL Eq.1 PH=2.times.OCAL-2.times.ICAL; for
OCAL being =or >ICAL Eq.2 PH=2.times.ICAL-2.times.OCAL; for OCAL
being 0 or <ICAL Eq.3
[0101] If OCAL=ICAL, i.e. the pedal is located at location 43, it
is seen that PH=0, i.e. that the pedal obtains a rectilinear path
rather than an elliptic or circular path, and that PL will be
2.times.(ICAL+OCAL).
[0102] If OCAL=0, i.e. the pedal is located at location 47, then
PL=PH and the path described by the pedal will be circular. This is
however identical to an ordinary bicycle mode (circular mode), and
not of particular importance in the present context. In fact, it is
strongly preferred, according to the present invention that
OCAL>ICAL.
[0103] If OCAL>ICAL, i.e. the pedal is located at location 41;
42, and Eqs. 1 and 2 apply, i.e. that PH<PL and an elliptical
path is obtained.
[0104] If ICAL is 150 mm and OCAL is 175 mm, we get PL=2.times.150
mm+2.times.175 mm=650 mm and PH=2.times.175 mm-2.times.150 mm=50
mm.
[0105] In the non-limiting example shown on FIGS. 6a-6c it is seen
that OCAL is approximately equal to 2.times.ICAL. Thus, applying
equations #1 and #2 above will yield: PL=6 ICAL, and PH=2 ICAL.
[0106] Placing pedals or platforms on the outer crank arm 10; 11
along lines 44 and 45 and holes 41-42 gives them an elliptical
orbital movement, except at point 43 where the pedals or platforms
achieves a flat or rather rectilinear path 46. The path 46 is thus
achieved when the distance between fixing point of the foot
supports (e.g. pedal) and outer crank arm axle linking to the inner
arm is identical to the distance 39 between outer crank arm axle
linking to the inner crank arm and inner crank arm axle. Placing
pedals or platforms at point 47 thus causes a circular movement to
be achieved. The movement of the outer crank arms are shown in FIG.
6c where reference numerals 43', 43'' and 43''' indicates the
centre point of crank arms 10; 11 in the upright, inclined (approx.
45.degree.) and horizontal postures, respectively.
[0107] Adjustment of OCAL to be equal to ICAL can be utilised in a
training/exercise apparatus for simulating a skiing motion.
[0108] The direction of the orbit the pedals perform when set in
motion is also dependent on the ratio OCAL:ICAL.
[0109] When the outer crank arms are shorter than the inner crank
arms, i.e. OCAL<ICAL, and when the outer crank arms are set in
motion, the pedals will enter into an elliptical orbit in the same
movement direction as that of the inner crank arms and axle.
[0110] When the outer crank arms are longer than the inner crank
arms and which when outer crank arms are set in motion gives the
pedals an elliptical orbit in the opposite direction of the inner
crank arms and axle.
[0111] Thus, if OCAL>ICAL the pedals will describe an orbital
path direction which will be in a direction opposite to direction
of rotation of the main crank axle, and if OCAL<ICAL the pedals
will describe an orbital path direction which will be in the same
direction of rotation of the main crank axle.
[0112] It should be noted that preferred embodiments of the
invention would demand that the outer crank arm 10; 11 is longer
than the inner crank arm 6; 7. A stride length between 300 mm and
900 mm seems to be the range on which the dimensions OCAL and ICAL
should be based. It will readily appreciated that the operating
part forming the crank arm device assembly should easily fit with
comfortable space clearance between the legs of a user. The size of
the cog wheels or gears in the crank arm device solution as made
according to any described embodiment of the invention is not a
fixed matter as such, although the cog wheels or gears should be
dimensioned to withstand the forces and weight applied by the user,
the ratio between the gears 16, 14 and 17, 15 always being 2:1.
Making a technical solution where the outer crank arms are shorter
than the inner crank arms would demand an undesirable big sun gear
16, 17 to achieve optimal stride lengths, and such a solution
should definitely be avoided in order to effectively reduce
physical size of the sun gear, the related dimension and weight of
the apparatus, and the extra cost of a large sun gear.
[0113] The FIGS. 7a-7h show the travel of the crank arms at 45%
intervals through a full 360 orbit. It should be noted that the
rotation of the inner crank arm is opposite the rotation of outer
crank arm. This rotational direction is dependent on that the outer
crank arm is longer than the inner crank arm or more correctly that
the fixing point of the foot support is longer than the distance 39
between outer crank axle and inner crank axle. If the outer crank
axle is shorter than the inner crank axle the motion of the foot
supports will move in the same direction as the inner crank arm
axle.
[0114] The invention is now to be further described with reference
to FIGS. 8, 9a and 9b. As previously disclosed, and now further
illustrated on FIG. 8, the first embodiment of the inventive crank
arm device assembly uses a chain 50 to transfer to the outer crank
arms 51 the desired motion. FIG. 8 shows a fixed cog wheel (sun
gear) 52 and a rotary cog wheel 53 fixed to the outer crank arm 52
and which can be rotated relative to the inner crank arm 54. The
motion can also be achieved by using gears directly connected as
shown in FIG. 9a or conical gears as illustrated in FIG. 9b. Gear
60 is fixed and when moving the outer crank arm 61 as indicated by
arrow 62, gear 63 fixed to the outer crank arm 61 rotates, and in
turn rotates gear 64, which then revolves around the circumference
of gear 61. Gears 60, 64 and 63 are in the diametrical ratios
2:1:1, and these gears are all in a rotary manner attached to the
inner crank arm 65. FIG. 9b show gears 60 and 64 replaced by bevel
gears 66, 67 and transmission gears 68, 68' interconnect by a
common drive axle 69. The gears 66, 67, 68 and 68' are all
rotationally supported on the inner crank arm 65. The gear ratio
between gears 65 and 67 should be 2:1. For the outer crank arm 61
to revolve 360 degrees and making an elliptical or linear path for
the foot supporting means, the ratio between the inner gear and the
outer gear must be 2:1.
[0115] Another aspect of the invention is to vary the motion and
more specifically the orientation of the path of the foot supports,
created by the crank device. FIG. 6a illustrates by dotted lines 38
how the orientation of the path is changed. This is however also
explained regarding FIG. 23.
[0116] For a preferred embodiment of the invention the cog wheel,
or sun gear, earlier described as a fixed unit, is optionally
rotational through a limited angular distance, i.e. from a fixed
position to another fixed position. As illustrated with arrow 35 on
FIG. 2, the cog wheel 16 can be rotated a desired number of degrees
relative to the frame 1 and the crank arms 6, 7 and 16, 17. A lever
36 is fixed to the cog wheel 16 (and thereby also to cog wheel 17)
and which when moved in direction of the arrow 37 turns the cog
wheels 16 and 17 simultaneously. The lever may also be operated by
motor assistance, as will be more closely described in regards to
FIGS. 31, 36-38 and 45 below.
[0117] A training apparatus which to be used for simulating
running, will demand foot supporting means in the form of
platforms, and such platforms should be made to stay in a
horizontal position or other wanted angle during a full rotation of
the crank arms. FIG. 10 shows a platform 70 through a full orbit
staying horizontal in all positions. As shown in FIG. 11, an outer
crank arm 75 has a first gear or cog wheel 77 attached to the
pedal/platform axle, said gear 77 being connected via a chain 76 to
a second gear 78 attached to an outer crank arm axle 71. Gear 78 is
connected through axle 71 to a gear 80 on the rear side of the
outer and inner crank arms 75 and 79. Gear 80 is connected via a
chain 85 to a gear 82, which is fixed to a frame 84. The ratio
between the gears 77, 78, 80 and 82 is 1:1 as suggested in FIG.
11a-b. This keeps the platform 70 at a same angle independent of
the rotational positions of the crank arms. As shown in FIGS. 11
and 11d the chain drive 76 is replaced by an axle 90 with conical
gears 91 and 92 at the ends thereof, gear 91 connecting with gear
96 on platform axle 94 and which provides for a 1:1 rotation to the
platform axle 94 from gear 95 and via gear 92, axle 90, and gears
91, 96.
[0118] FIGS. 12 and 13 show a second and preferred embodiment
within the scope of the invention, and which gives foot supporting
means, such as platforms, a controlled angle relative to the
horizontal through a 360.degree. rotation of the crank arms. The
solution gives the same general operations result as for the
solution shown in FIG. 11, but has two fixing positions for a
platform. It should be noted that FIGS. 12 and 13 only show one
side of the crank device and that the construction is similar on
the other side of the frame 101.
[0119] As described for the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 the
crank device has an outer crank arm 100 rotational fixed to an
inner crank arm 105. A cog wheel 103 is stationary fixed to the
frame 101, and is operationally linked to cog wheel 102 through use
of a chain 108. Cog wheel 102 is fixed to outer crank arm 100 via
an axle 106 (shown by dotted line) rotationally through inner crank
arm 105. The ratio between cog wheel 103 and 102 is 2:1. As shown
in FIG. 7 movement of an outer crank arm will turn cog 102 and move
the rotational joint 110 (which includes also axle 106) between the
two crank arms 100 and 105, through use of the chain 108 extending
around cog wheels 102 and 103, around the fixed cog 103. A cog
wheel 112 is rotationally fixed to the outer crank arm 100, but
stationary fixed to the inner crank arm 105 and thus fixed relative
to cog wheel 102. Mutual movement of the crank arms 100, 105 will
make cog wheel 112 rotate relative to the outer crank arm 100. This
rotation is transferred to a cog wheel 114 rotationally linked to
the outer crank arm 100 through use of a chain 115. The
transmission ratio between wheels 112 and 114 is 1:2. Fixed in
centre of cog wheel 114 is cog 120 with a fixing point 121 for
attachment of platform. The rotation of cog 114 makes cog wheel 120
and a platform (not shown), which is fixedly attachable to fixing
point 121, rotate independently of the crank arms 100 and 105.
[0120] It should be understood that the ratio shown in this
embodiment is made for keeping a pedal or platform in one posture
through a full 360.degree. rotation of the cranks, and changing the
ratios will angle the platform differently. A second fixing point
123 on the outer crank arm 100 for attachment of a platform is
placed in the centre of a cog wheel 122 which is rotational
relative to and supported by outer crank arm. Between cog wheels
120 and 122 is located a chain 124, which in ratio 1:1 transfers
rotation from cog wheel 120 to cog wheel 122 and thereby to any
attached platform attached at fixing point 123. This gives such a
combined gear/crank arm device two fixing points 121; 123 for
platforms, fixing point 121 providing for a flat or rectilinear
path for the platform, as indicated on FIG. 23d.
[0121] As explained relative to FIG. 6 a flat or rectilinear path
is achieved when the distance between fixing point of the foot
supports 121 and outer crank arm axle (forming rotational link with
the inner crank arm) is identical to the distance between outer
crank axle and inner crank axle (related to the end of the inner
crank arm opposite to that related to said outer crank arm axle).
Position 110 representing in part a rotational joint has a circular
motion, but a fixing point for platform is not shown thereat, as
such circular motion is not a prime object as regards practical use
of the crank arm device and the apparatus of the invention.
[0122] FIG. 13 shows in perspective the same crank device described
above for FIG. 12. Numerals 125 and 126 show screws for fitting a
cover 127 over the cog-wheels and chains operatively attached to
the outer crank arm 100.
[0123] In a training/exercise apparatus utilising the invention an
adjustment of stride length is highly desirable. This can be done
as explained above in connection with FIG. 6, but methods of
achieving this during operation of the apparatus will now be
explained using assistance from that shown in FIG. 14-16.
[0124] FIG. 14a show outer crank arms 130 and 131 with foot
supporting means 132 and 133 attached to means for adjusting the
length of the crank arms 130, 131 and thereby fixing point of the
foot support. The means illustrated are fluid filled cylinders 134
and 135. Using pressurised fluid, e.g. oil, and return springs the
cylinders can expand or retract, thus giving a variation of stride
length 136. For a system like this, pumps for adjusting the fluid
pressure is necessary and one pump on each arm connected to each
cylinder is one solution as indicated by reference numeral 137.
Sensors have to be included in the system for measuring the speed
during rotation of the crank, said sensors coupled to means for
signalling to a pump, whereby the oil pressure can be increased or
reduced to give a stride dependent on speed. Short stride for low
speed and long stride at high speed could be a preferred mode.
[0125] FIG. 14b illustrates variation of stride length through
using treaded bolts 138 which when given a rotation moves the outer
ends of the crank arms. As illustrated in FIG. 14b, the bolts 138
and 139 can be fitted with electric motors 140 and 141, which can
rotate the bolts when given the wanted signal. A sensor can be
arranged to measure the speed of the crank arms and through a CPU
162 (shown on FIG. 16) signalling the motors for executing wanted
length of the outer crank arms. Power is supplied through contact
rings and brushes at the axle positions as indicated by 141 and
142.
[0126] All mechanical, electrical and or fluid guide parts, as well
as control means related to the principles of FIGS. 14a and 14b are
not shown in detail, but is shown here for describing the outer
crank arm extension and retraction possibilities as the pedals or
platforms move along the intended path.
[0127] A preferred embodiment, according to the invention, of the
crank arm device and related to the adjustment of crank arm length
is shown on FIGS. 36-45 and described further below.
[0128] However, some further aspects of the invention related to
how a crank arm can be made for both having controlled pedal angle
and adjustment of crank arm length, is now to be described with
reference to FIGS. 15a and 15b, showing a variant of the crank
device as shown in FIGS. 11c and 11d. An outer crank arm 150
consists of two parts 151 and 152 which when slid relative to each
other as indicated by arrow 153, adjusts the length of the crank
arm. An axle 155 with gears as shown 156, 157 and 158, 159 similar
to that shown in FIG. 11 is telescopic and will adjust with the
length of the crank.
[0129] The aim of the invention is to create a training or exercise
apparatus where the dimension(s) of the orbital or rectilinear path
of the foot supporting means are automatically adjustable depending
on speed of crank rotation and of pedal travel. Setting of
dimension(s) of the orbit for foot supports can be provided through
use of a kind of man machine interface MMI device for user personal
adjustments, resistance to work-out, advisor displays, updated
results, suitably including a display with a keypad/buttons or a
touch screen for input of user values.
[0130] FIG. 16 shows a schematic illustration of a system for
automatic, or user defined motion or stride control and adjustment.
Speed of the cranks can be measured by a sensor 160 for example
directly operative on a crank axle, axle mounted wheel, flywheel or
other parts rotating as result of crank axle rotation, denoted by
reference numeral 161.
[0131] The sensor 160 sends signals to a microprocessor or CPU 162,
which through a program signals means for adjusting cranks 163 and
164. Reference numerals 165 and 166 indicate motors or pumps.
Sensors 167, 168 measure the length of the cranks. Means for
operating is provided in form of button clusters with display or in
the form of a touchscreen 169. Run by a program in the CPU choices
are displayed on a screen, for example user defined adjustment of
the stride indicated and adjustable on a display 170 or automatic
adjustment of stride dependent on speed indicated and adjustable on
display 171. Further explanation of the means for operating
preferably called a man machine interface MMI device is found below
in relation with FIG. 24 and FIG. 55.
[0132] The crank device will have means for supporting the foot of
a user. Depending on the type of training apparatus the crank
device is mounted in, either platforms or pedals are fixed to the
crank arms. To gain proprioceptive training, the crank device
should have mounted thereon multiple use platforms or pedals.
[0133] FIG. 17 shows a type of platform, which has means for
causing tilting about a longitudinal axis thereof. An upper
platform part 180 is fixed to a frame 181 through pivot axles 183
and 184. The frame has an axle or bolt 185 for fixing to an outer
crank arm. As illustrated in FIG. 17c the platform upper part can
be tilted transverse to the axle 185. The platform upper part is
lockable against tilting, if so desired, through rotating a bar 188
to be parallel to the axle 185, the bar having the same dimension
as a gap between an underside face of the platform part 180 and the
frame 181.
[0134] FIG. 18 shows a prior art pedal with tilt motion as the
prior art found in WO0/68067 assigned Flexiped AS. The pedal body
190 has an axle 191 attachable to a crank arm (not shown). A
footrest 192 is in a tiltable manner fixed at 90.degree. to axle
191 of the pedal body. This gives a pedal with one traditional
stable pedal face 193 and an unstable, sideways tiltable face
194.
[0135] As mentioned above the invention may be utilised in a number
of embodiments of pedal or platform driven apparatus. FIG. 19 shows
a training apparatus utilising the invention with platforms 200 and
201 and handles 203 and 204, which are stationary during operation.
The crank device 205 shown is described according to FIG. 12.
However, it should be understood that any of the embodiments or
variations thereof, shown in this could be utilised in such an
apparatus. The training apparatus shown is through use of the
invention possible to make as a compact unit, and as shown on FIG.
19c the handles 203, 204 are downward foldable, and the frame legs
206, 207 are foldable, and thereby saving space when in
storage.
[0136] A main feature of the invention is the versatility in
training motions and the users freedom of choosing preferred
motions. The following will explain the inventions ability to do
so, using the above explained features in combination with new
embodiments.
[0137] FIGS. 20a-20c show a training/exercise apparatus utilising
the invention with platforms and moving handles 210, 211. The
figures are purely schematic and show how prior art regarding
moving handles can be incorporated with the crank arm devices
according the invention. The handles 210 and 211 are
hinged/articulated to bars 212 and 213, respectively, said bars 212
and 213 being linked to the crank device through use of rotary
axles located at the joint between the outer crank arm and the
inner crank arm (se inter alia FIG. 13). Details are not shown, as
the principle should be obvious to any expert in the art and given
the teachings of the present invention. It should be emphasised
that the flywheel can be placed spaced apart from the crank device,
as e.g. indicated on FIG. 5, and be linked to the rotating crank
axle through a belt or chain transmission. FIG. 20c illustrates how
one can achieve an "uphill or downhill" training experience by
changing the angle 215 of orbital path of the platform made
possible by the inventive crank arm device. By adjusting the angle
of the crank arm device 214 relative to the training/exercise
apparatus frame, the elliptical orbit can be adjusted. The crank
device is tiltable linked to the frame on an axle 215 and the
incline is adjustable using a motor 216 with a threaded bolt 217
connected to the crank device.
[0138] As shown in FIG. 20c the angle of the orbit and stride track
can be adjusted by tilting the whole crank arm device relative to
the frame of the training apparatus. This does however also tilt
the fitted platforms. As will be shown in the following drawing
figures the angle of the orbit and the orbital track can be
adjusted relative to the frame of the crank device and still
keeping fitted platforms at a horizontal level, however without
tilting the whole crank arm device.
[0139] FIGS. 21a and 21b shows the embodiment related to FIGS.
12-13 where the stationary cog wheel 220 is adjustable. The cog
wheel 220 is adjustably attached to the frame 222 in such a matter
that it can be released from locking engagement with the frame 222,
rotated and then fixed back to locking engagement with the frame. A
rotation of the cog wheel 220, as indicated by arrow 224, will make
cog wheel 223 turn and move the outer crank arm 228 as indicated by
arrow 225. However, the platform fixing points 230 and 231 will
turn slightly from their original oriented position, and crank arm
232 still is still rotably attached to cog wheel 220, but remains
stationary during angular setting of the cog wheel 220. The
platform fixing point 230 when used gives an elliptical path, and
the fixing point 231 when used gives a flat or rectilinear path of
movement of the platform. Cog wheel 220 is after being turned
fastened relative to the frame 222 and the further motion of the
crank arms 228 and 232 will then work as explained earlier, but
with the path or orbit of the motion of the platforms at an offset
angle relative to a horizontal plane. To further explain, the cog
wheel 220 is rotated a given degree as indicated by arrow 233,
relative to the frame 222 and inner crank arm 232 illustrated with
reference point 234. This may be done by a lever 229 fixed relative
to the cog wheel 220, which can be assisted by a motor and treaded
bolt, worm gear or other gearing means or as shown below in FIG.
36-38. The cog wheel 220 may also be directly connected to a motor
227 (suitably including a locking gear) as indicated on FIG.
21a.
[0140] FIGS. 21d-21f show a modification of the embodiment of FIGS.
21a-21c to provide for the platform fixing points 230 and 231 to
stay in the original oriented position. The modification exhibits
an inner cog wheel 220' which remains fixed to the frame, and crank
arm 232 still is rotatable relative to cog wheel 220, as mentioned
above, but is kept stationary during angular setting of cog wheel
220. The cog wheel 220' is engaged with cog wheel 223' by means of
a chain and the cog wheel 223' is fixed relative to cog wheel 237.
The cog wheel 237 holds cog wheel 238 and the platform fixing
points 230 and 231 in position through a revolution of the crank.
The ratio between inner cog wheel 220' and the cog wheels
positioning the platforms are 1:1, though the ratio between cog
wheels 220' and 223' is shown 2:1, and the ratio between cog wheels
237 and 238 is 1:2, which result in a ratio of 1:1 between the
platforms and frame.
[0141] FIG. 22 shows a platform 236 connected to the outer crank
arm outer fixing point 231, see FIG. 21c. FIG. 22a shows a folded
position of the crank arms. A 45.degree. rotation of the crank arms
relative to gear 220 is shown in FIG. 22b, and another 45.degree.
rotation of the crank arms is shown in FIG. 22c. The platform 236
will stay in the same position relative to the frame through a full
rotation as explained in relation to FIGS. 11-13.
[0142] FIG. 23a shows different orbits and paths possible from
using the crank device according to the invention explained above,
250 indicating orbits, and 251 indicating a straight or rectilinear
path motion. The orbit and size of paths is explained with
reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 23b show orbit of platforms 254 remaining
in a horizontal orientation whilst FIG. 23c show the orbit of the
platforms at an angle relative to a horizontal plane. FIG. 23d show
also orbit at an angle relative to a horizontal plane but note the
upward movement orientation of the platforms, although the
platforms remain in a horizontal posture, which when used in a
training/exercise apparatus will give a climb or step sensation for
the user. FIG. 23e show platforms oriented along a line which gives
a skiing simulation used in a training machine. All orientations
shown in FIGS. 23a-23e can be achieved in one training apparatus
when utilising the invention according to the embodiment explained
relative to FIGS. 21-22.
[0143] Turning back to FIG. 21, there is indicated by number 227 an
adjustment device, preferably a servo motor, which when activated
can turn the gear 220 to fix the desired angle of the orbit or
path. Having such an automated adjustment device incorporated in
the crank arm device, a user is able to adjust the angle of stride
when using a training apparatus utilizing the invention.
[0144] FIG. 24 shows schematically the main components of an
automated adjustment system in a training apparatus, which when
combining with a system as shown and explained with FIG. 16, will
give a user full control of the orbit size and stride length and
angle, during a workout. A mechanical working adjustment device,
e.g. an electric servomotor 260, used as an example in this
embodiment, is connected to a fixed gear 262 like gear 220. A
sensor 263 will monitor the movement of the motor or gear 262 and
give signals to a CPU 264 which in turn is connected with a control
device 265 or man machine interface device (NM-unit) having screen,
touch screen or display 266 with user means 267 for input and
control. The CPU is programmed to show the adjustments made by the
user on the screen/display. The adjustments made or chosen by the
user from the control device is processed by the CPU which signals
a motor controller 270 which sends the correct signals and power to
the motors for turning gear and setting of cranks 271, 272
accordingly.
[0145] FIG. 25 shows a training apparatus utilising the invention.
The training apparatus has handles 280 and 281, which are
articulated to rods 282 and 283. The rods 282 and 283 are connected
with the crank arm device between the two crank arm constructions,
the pivotable connection 287 to the crank being eccentric and
similar to the solution disclosed below on FIG. 31. The handles
move back and forth as indicated by arrow 285, and transverse with
the platform movement, as one would do when skiing and which is a
typical movement on prior art or cross-trainers. Reference numeral
286 shows a MMI unit as described above.
[0146] FIG. 26 shows a crank device 290 utilised in a training
machine of an ergometer type or indoor training bicycle, the crank
device being of any type described above and having a solution for
changing the angle of path and orbit as shown in FIGS. 20-24 and
solutions elaborated below relative to FIGS. 31-45.
[0147] FIG. 27 shows a crank device 292 utilised in a training
machine of a recliner seat ergo-meter type and having the same
functions as mentioned above in relation to FIG. 26.
[0148] The crank device according to the invention may work with
gears/cogs, connected with chains/belts, or directly geared.
[0149] FIGS. 28 and 29 show a further and variant embodiment of the
invention where the outer crank arms 308, 309 are fixed to gears
302 and 303, respectively that are directly connected to gears 304
and 305 which are toothed on the inside. These gears 304, 305 are
preferable fixed to the apparatus frame, but may have means to
rotate, as shown on FIGS. 2 and 21 to make a variety of the path
and motion of the foot supports. Reference numerals 306 and 307 are
the inner crank arms, and 308 and 309 are--as mentioned--the outer
crank arms. The orbital path of the pedals 300 through movement of
the crank arms is the same as shown for the embodiments shown in
FIGS. 1-9. 298 denotes a possible location for flywheel or a drive
gear or cog wheel, which will be fixed to the main crank axle when
utilised on a training apparatus. An important aspect of the
embodiment shown on FIGS. 28 and 29 is that the outer crank arms
have a length, which is substantially longer than that of the inner
crank arms. Thus, equations #1 and #2 related to the discussion of
FIG. 6 apply for the present embodiment. It is seen from the
embodiment shown on FIGS. 28a and 28b that OCAL is approx.
1.5.times.ICAL, thus yielding an elliptical path where
PL=5.times.ICAL and PH=1.times.ICAL. In the embodiment of FIG. 30
OCAL=4.5.times.ICAL, yielding PL=11.times.ICAL and PH=7.times.ICAL.
Thus, FIGS. 30a and 30b show that when foot support and outer crank
arm 310 is moved in direction of arrow 311, the inner crank arm 312
will move counter-wise indicated by arrow 313 as the movable gear
314 moves on stationary gear 315.
[0150] It should be noted that preferred embodiments of the
invention will demand that the outer crank arm 308, 310; 310 is
longer than the inner crank arm 306, 306; 312. As indicated in
relation to FIG. 6, a stride length between 300 mm and 900 mm seems
to be the range on which the dimensions OCAL and ICAL should be
based. It will readily appreciated that the operating part forming
the crank arm device assembly should easily fit with comfortable
space clearance between the legs of a user. Therefore the size of
the stationary gear 304, 305; 315 should at a minimum, also to
reduce cost. Accordingly, the size of the cog wheel 302, 303; 314
or gear 304, 305; 315 the crank arm device should be dimensioned to
withstand the forces and weight applied by the user, the ratio
between the gears 304, 302; 305, 303; 315, 314 always being 2:1.
Making a technical solution where the outer crank arms are shorter
or almost of same length as the inner crank arms would demand an
undesirable big and thus unacceptable stationary sun gear 304, 305;
315 to achieve optimal stride lengths, and such a solution should
definitely be avoided in order to effectively reduce physical size
of the sun gear, the related dimension and weight of the apparatus,
and the extra cost of a large sun gear.
[0151] The following will describe a further embodiment showing an
utilisation of the present invention.
[0152] FIGS. 31-35 show a training apparatus 320 which has a crank
arm device 322 which in principle works as crank arm device
explained with reference to FIGS. 12-13 and FIGS. 21-22, the crank
device having foot supporting means 321 and 325 which are held in a
stable posture during rotation of the crank arms. The crank arm
device also has a mechanism 375 for adjusting the angle of orbital
or rectilinear path relative to the horizontal, e.g. as also
illustrated in FIGS. 20 and 23.
[0153] The crank arm mechanism does not use cog wheels with chains
as shown in earlier embodiments, but uses gears. The crank arm
mechanism will be particularly described with reference to FIG. 33.
It will be readily understood that the outer and inner crank arms
341 and 331 have on the other side of the assembly shown similar
elements, e.g. outer crank arm 340 with related inner crank arm
330. The inner crank arms 330 and 331 have gears 332 and 333, which
revolve around sun gears 336 and 337 and drives gears 334 and 335
that are connected to the outer crank arms 340 and 341. The ratio
between gears 336, 337 and 334, 335 is 2:1. The outer crank arms
340, 341 have gears 342 and 343, which are in fixed relation to the
respective inner crank arm 330, 331. Gears 344 and 345, which are
rotationally attached to the outer crank arms 340, 341 revolve
around gears 342 and 343, respectively in connection with
respective gears 346 and 347. The foot supporting means 321 and 325
are attachable to respective gears 346, 347 via axles 348 and 349.
An axle 350 connects the inner crank arms 330, 331 through the sun
gears 336, 337. A wheel 351 is fixed to the axle 350 and works as a
pulley with a belt 352 connected with pulley 353 on flywheel 354.
The flywheel has means of resistance in a manner as previously
described, for example using an eddy current brake system, a magnet
here indicated at 355.
[0154] The crank device is set in motion when the user forces the
platforms downwards. Whilst the outer crank arms 340, 341 rotate in
the direction of the platforms, the inner crank arms 330, 331
rotate counter-wise. Explaining from one side of the training
apparatus; the gear 347 is given a rotation relative to the outer
crank arm, which is controlled by the motion of inner crank arm
through gear 343 and gear 345. The ratio between gears 343 and 347
is 1:2.
[0155] The training apparatus has handlebars 360 and 361 tiltable
relative to the frame and linked to the crank device. A disc 362 is
arranged off-centre to the crank device main axle 350 to provide an
eccentric arrangement. A ring member 363 on a bar 363' is rotatably
placed round the disc 362. A rotation of the crank axle will make
the disc 362 rotate and give a pulsating action to the bar 363'
which is hinged to a rod 364. The rod 364 has transverse axle piece
365 forming a link via two bar pieces 366 and 367 to the
handlebars. The motion of the ring member 362 and bar 363' makes
the rod 364 move forward and backwards as indicated by arrow 368
and the movement is transferred to tilting motions of the
handlebars 361 and 360, indicated by arrow 369.
[0156] The training apparatus according to a preferred embodiment
of the invention can be provided with an adjustable mechanism,
preferably automatically operated, for the variety of motions that
can be provided by the invention. On the training apparatus shown
in FIG. 31-35, the sun gears 336, 337 are attached to levers 370
and 371. The levers are rotational around main crank axle 350. The
levers 370 and 371 are joined by means of a cross-piece 373. A
threaded bolt 374 runs through the cross-piece and holds the levers
370, 371 in position. Turning the bolt about its longitudinal axis
will move the end of the levers along the length of the bolt 374
and turn the sun gears 336, 337 relative to the frame 324 (see FIG.
31). The effect of changing the angle of the orbital or rectilinear
path relative to the frame is generally as also explained in
connection with FIGS. 21-23. The bolt 374 is on the training
apparatus fixed to an electric motor 375, which a user can activate
to change the motion of the apparatus.
[0157] The apparatus will also have a man machine interface device
as explained above regarding FIG. 24 and as indicated by number 323
on FIG. 32a.
[0158] FIG. 32b shows an additional feature, which softens the
motion of the training apparatus and gives the apparatus a tilting
motion 326. Spring loaded feet 327-327'''' are fixed to the frame
of the apparatus. A rounded 328 section is located under the middle
of the frame in the length of the apparatus.
[0159] A training apparatus of this kind can also include a weight
monitoring application within the system. This requires the
training apparatus having weight scale technology means built in to
the training apparatus. A weight measuring system can be put in
relation to the frame and floor. Viewing back on FIG. 32b weight
sensors may be fitted in cylinders 327-327''', the rounded section
328 should not be present when weight monitoring means
327-327'''are present. The part of frame 324' which supports the
main crank axle 350 could be made telescopic with weight sensors if
tilt function of the frame is desirable. A weight measuring system
can also be fitted directly to the platforms 321 and 325 of the
apparatus. This would however demand circular slide contacts at the
crank arm joints to transfer signals through the apparatus to link
up with a MMI system and a display. The MMI system would show the
weight of a person on a display 323 and the user may monitor the
progress of weight loss during training in a specific training
session or in the course of a plurality of training sessions.
[0160] As described earlier together with FIGS. 14-16 an adjustment
of the elliptical orbit and the stride length for the crank device
is desirable, especially when used in a training apparatus.
[0161] FIGS. 36-45 only show the basic mechanical elements of the
training apparatus, but it should be understood that the apparatus
may have another design and style than that e.g. shown on FIGS. 19,
20, 25, 26, 27, 31, 32 as regards e.g. the frame and will have
covers to protect the user from the moving mechanical elements.
[0162] FIGS. 36-45 elaborate a solution of how to control the angle
of the foot supporting means and at the same time making it
possible to vary the position of the foot supports along the length
of the outer crank arms. This solution is shown in detail as to how
the crank device for use in a training apparatus will give the user
a variety of possible motions by simply using the MMI system as
described relative to FIGS. 16 and 24 to control settings on the
apparatus. FIGS. 36a and 36b show perspective views of the one side
of yet another embodiment of the crank device whilst FIG. 36c shows
a perspective view of such crank arm device having both crank arms
connected. FIGS. 36-45 will thus focus on showing one of the two
crank arms with connection to the centre crank axle and also
showing a solution for the adjustment of angle or incline of motion
which affects both crank arms.
[0163] FIGS. 36a-36c show frame part 324' which will be connected
or part of a frame 324 in a training apparatus as shown for example
on FIG. 31. On the frame there is a main crank axle 360 connecting
the two inner crank arms of which only arm 372 (formed by 372' and
372'') is shown on the drawing figures. To the inner crank arms 372
there is rotationally attached outer crank arms 361 and 368 shown
covered by respective covers. Circular plates 376 and 377 are fixed
to the inner crank arms 372 and follow the rotational motion of the
crank around the main crank axle 360. The outer crank arms are
fixed to the inner crank arms similar to what is shown and
described relative to FIGS. 31-33 and has the motion according to
the invention as shown in FIGS. 6, 7 and 23. A lever 378, similar
in operation to levers 370 and 371 previously described is fixedly
attached to the sun gear 386 of each inner crank arm 372, as will
be described in more detail in the following FIGS. 37-45 and works
generally as shown in the above FIGS. 21-23 and 31 and 33.
[0164] Position of the crank arms as shown in FIG. 36 will give the
foot supporting means a linear motion, when fixed to the outer
crank arms at location 379 and 380 thereon. The outer crank arms
361, 368 have means available to enable shifting of the fixing
points for the foot supports in order to vary the motion in a
manner indicated above relative to FIGS. 14-15.
[0165] FIG. 37 shows a view of the crank device transverse crank
axle 360 orientation, showing only one half of the crank arm
construction. The sun gear 386 is located a round the main crank
axle 360 and is fixedly attached relative to the frame through
lever 378. A second gear 387 is in connection with the sun gear
386. A third gear 388 is in connection with gear 387, the gear 388
being fixedly attached to the outer crank arm 368. Motion applied
to the outer crank arm 368 will force a rotational motion to the
gear 388 and further a rotational motion of gear 387 which will
revolve around sun gear 386, making inner crank arm 372 revolve and
cause main crank axle 360 to rotate. On the figure there are shown
a second set of gears 392, 393 and 394 which are in connection with
the outer crank arm 386 for adjusting the foot support fixing point
379 on arm 386 and, which is actuated by a gear 395 and worm gear
396, explained in greater detail below. As shown on above FIG. 33
the main crank axle 350 has means 362, 363 for driving the movement
of handlebars on a training apparatus. On FIG. 39 is shown a disc
400 having an offset hole, the disc thus being fixedly attached
offset to the inner crank arm member 372'' around the axle 360 so
to transfer a crank motion to bars linked to handle bars of a
training apparatus, the construction shown in principle detail in
FIGS. 33 and 35.
[0166] The sun gear 386 is fixed to a lever 378, through a boss 403
shown on FIGS. 38 and 39. The lever 378 holds the sun gear 386 in
selected position assisted by a motor through a threaded bolt as
shown for the similar function on FIGS. 31 and 33. FIG. 38 also
shows the actuator for the positioning of outer foot supports. A
worm gear 396 is in connection with gear 395, which in turn is
fixed through a boss 406 with gear 392. The axle 360 runs through
the parts shown in FIG. 38 and moves individually on bearings 410
and 411 and is fixedly attached to the inner crank arm frame 372',
as seen on FIG. 39. FIG. 39 shows the inner crank arm in exploded
view. The gears 386, 387 and 388 are supported by bearings and
bosses so as to turn individually relative to the gears 392, 393
and 394. Gears 386 and 387 are in ratio 2:1 to gear 388 and whereas
gears 392 and 393 are in ratio 2:1 relative to gear 394.
[0167] As shown on FIGS. 39-45 an axle 414 is fixed to the inner
crank arm frame 372'' and protrudes through gears 394 and 388. Gear
388 is fixed to the outer crank arm frame 390', at protruding part
388' of the gear. It also seen that gear 394 has a protruding part
394' rotatable relative to gear 388 and extending through the gear
388 and its part 388'.
[0168] Shown on FIG. 41 is the outer crank arm 368 without the
cover as shown in FIG. 36. The gear 394 is fixedly attached to a
gear 420 which drives worm gears 421 and 422, the worm gears being
fixed to or forming part of threaded bolts 423 and 424 and which
engage threaded holes in a cross piece 415 which is attached to an
arm piece 416, said piece 416 being slidable relative to outer
crank arm frame 390. A gear 426 is fixed to an axle 414, the gear
426 being in co-operative engagement with two worm gears 427 and
428. The worm gears 427, 428 extend through a supporting member or
worm base 417 and are connected to telescopic rods 429 and 430,
which are threaded 429', 430' at the other end for engagement with
gear 434, the gear 434 having a hole 379 which is intended for
engagement with a foot supporting platform.
[0169] FIG. 42a shows the outer crank arm in the position as shown
in FIG. 36, giving a linear path for the foot support. The arm
piece 416, which is fixed to the piece 415, is pulled together with
worm base 417. Movement of the gear 420 turns the worm gears 421
and 422, which in turn causes the arm piece 416 to slide guided by
tracks in side supports 431 and 432.
[0170] FIG. 43a-43c show sections XLIIIb-XLIIIb and XLIIIc-XLIIIc,
where further details of the outer crank arm construction is
revealed and with the arm in an extended position.
[0171] FIG. 44 shows a section of the middle and centre of the
crank arm construction, and show in detail how the different parts
are connected. Outer crank arm frame part 390' is connected to gear
388 which is in contact with gear 387 which in turn is in contact
with sun gear 386, the sun gear 386 being rigidly connected to
lever 378. Inner crank arm frame part 372' is fixed to main axle
360 which extends through the sun gear 386. A second axle 414 is
fixedly attached to the inner crank arm frame part 372'', the outer
crank arm 368, 390 thus capable of revolving around axle 414. The
axle 414 protrudes through the outer crank arm frame 390 and is
attached to gear 426. As mentioned above, the gear 426 is connected
to gears 427, 428 and rods 429, 430 keeping the posture or
orientation of the foot support fixing point 379 steady through use
of a 1:1 ratio relative to the frame. A gear 420 is also located
around axle 414, but is fixed relative to gear 394, which connects
with gear 393 and which again connects with gear 392. Gear 392 is
connected with gear 395 which may be turned by bolt and worm gear
396. The movement of the gear is transferred to gear 420, which is
connected with gears 421 and 422. As mentioned above gears 421 and
422 through use of threaded bolts 423 and 424 cause arm piece 416
to slide. Bolt 396 is on a training apparatus fixed to the frame
324' and by turning the bolt manually or preferably by means of a
motor (not shown), adjustment of the foot support fixing point 379
along the outer crank arm is made possible. The threaded bolt 396
shown on FIG. 45 is by means of its guiding means 425-425'' fixed
to the frame 324'. FIG. 45 shows in perspective a cutaway section
of the crank device one side according to the invention, without
the frame or the circular plates 376 and 377.
[0172] FIG. 45 shows more clearly than the previous drawing figures
all bearings for the gears, the bearings all denoted by the general
reference 450.
[0173] As previously described above regarding FIGS. 17 and 18 a
desirable feature of the foot supporting means is to have a tilting
motion to the foot to achieve proprioceptive training, the foot
supports preferably having means for locking this function.
[0174] FIGS. 46 and 47 show a platform 460 fixed to a frame 461,
the frame being tiltable and fixedly attached on an axle 462 to a
body 463. The body has a lever 464 tiltable about the axle 462. The
frame has a curved track 465 on each side of the body, the body
having a track 466 radial to the curved track. A bolt 467 runs
through and in the tracks. At an uplifted position of the lever
470, the bolt is forced into the radial track 466 by a spring 468
and the platform is locked. In a downward position the bolt is
forced by the lever into the curved track 465 where the platform is
free to tilt within the length of the track.
[0175] One of the main objects of the invention is to control the
level of the foot supporting means. The above description has shown
how to keep the platform at a static level throughout a revolving
motion of the crank device. Further embodiment of the invention is
achieving a motion where a toe and heel motion is achieved at each
"end" positions of a path and motion.
[0176] FIG. 48-53 show a platform 460 which is to be attached to
the outer crank arms of the crank devices with platform level
control as shown in FIGS. 10-13, 19-25, 31-33, 36-45.
[0177] The tilt motion with a lever to lock the tilt function is
substantially the same as shown on FIG. 46. The platform is fixed
to the crank device with bolt 480 attached to the level control of
a crank arm, for example 380 as shown on FIG. 10, 25 or FIG. 36.
The platform is optionally tiltable and is fixed to body 482. The
body 482 compared to body 463 above, has a second axle 483, which
holds a second body 484 having a cylindrical portion. The bolt 480
runs inside the cylindrical portion of the body 484 and is fixedly
attached at end portion 485. A cylinder 486 is located on bearings
487-487' inside the cylindrical portion of the second body 484, the
bolt 480 extending through it. Cylinder 486 has a boss member 488,
which fixes the cylinder relative to the outer crank arm frame 390
of the crank device. An off-centre ring 489 is located around the
cylinder 486, the ring 489 being located inside a circular hollow
part 490 of body 482. A peg 491 (see FIG. 53) and spring 492 is
located inside the hollow part, which are in contact with the
outside of ring 489. As learned from the above description the bolt
480 holds the platform at a stable level throughout a revolution of
the crank device. The cylinder 486 being fixed to the outer crank
arm frame 390 will create a rotation of the ring 489, which in turn
forces the body 482 into a rocking motion from contact with said
peg 491 and spring 492. As shown on FIG. 54, the ring orientation
is set so that through a rotation of the crank a tilt upwards of a
toe end 494 of the platform 460 is created at the most forward
position 496 of the path 497 of the platforms and a tilt upwards of
the heel end 495 of the platform is created at the rear position
498 of the platform's path.
[0178] The crank device as shown in FIGS. 36-45 is as mentioned to
be fixed in a frame on a training apparatus in similar matter to
what is shown in FIGS. 31-35. The apparatus will have means for the
user to automatically adjust the fixing points for the foot
supporting means, and the inclination of the crank arms.
[0179] As shown in FIGS. 16 and 24 the apparatus will have a man
machine interface (MMI) system for the user. It should be apparent
from the above described that on a screen, for example a touch
screen, as part of the apparatus of present invention, a menu
system and layout of choices and adjustments would at least show;
[0180] paths of motion or style of training as: walking, running,
climbing or skiing; [0181] individual adjustment of stride length,
angle of path; [0182] level of resistance and other prior art
adjustments regarding workout levels, caloric burn rates, heart
rates/pulse etc. . . .
[0183] FIG. 55 shows schematically how the MMI system would work.
The screen on the training apparatus would show the different
training options available. It may be a list 500 of icons, which
represents the options. The list of options presented to the user
may comprise a list of pre-programmed motions 501, such as: walk,
jog, run, climb and ski, or options to enter user-defined motions.
If a user selects "jog", the computer within the apparatus will run
the "jog program" 503 and set the crank arms so that the foot
supports will describe an elliptical path typical for a jogging
motion. The system would preferably have included in the program an
option 504 to enter personal data, as height, weight, physical
shape and sex. The system will activate the means for adjusting the
platform position along the crank arms 505 for making the correct
path and path size based on the program and personal data. The
system could also adjust the inclination of crank 506 according to
the program and data. The system may adjust the resistance made to
the flywheel based on personal data 507, or the user may override
this and set the resistance manually 508. The system may also
include a program for terrain 509, for example jogging on flat
surface, or jogging on uneven terrain with hills for jogging uphill
and downhill. The system would during such a program change the
inclination during the workout session. Another function of such a
system is to monitor the rate 511 of revolutions and the system
will be able to activate the means for adjusting the platform
position for making the correct size relevant to the speed. This
means that if the user starts with a walking motion and speeds up
the turning of movable parts of the crank device, the system will
change and increase the stride length to be more appropriate
towards for example running. The system would suitably include
means for entry of user-defined motions 502, where the user may
define the inclination 506 and path configuration 505 of the foot
supports, and resistance 508 against movement, e.g. to simulate
movement uphill. The amount of resistance applied may alternatively
or in addition also be connected to a system monitoring the pulse
rate and heart performance of the user, as known from prior art
within the fitness industry 510 and for medical testing of an
suspected heart condition.
[0184] FIG. 56 shows schematically a training apparatus with two
crank devices 520 and 521 according to the invention. The outer
crank arms 524, 524' and 525, 525' of the crank devices are linked
together with bars 522 and 523, respectively, said bars 522, 523
serving as base for foot supporting means. The foot supports keep
the same horizontal level through a revolution of the cranks.
[0185] FIG. 57a show schematically a training apparatus with a
crank device 526 according to the invention and a conventional
crank wheel 527, the cranks connected together by means for
coordinating the rotational motion, as for example a belt or chain
530. The crank device 526 has its outer crank arms 531, 532 is
linked to bars 528 and 529, which serves as base for foot
supporting means. The bars 528, 529 are slidably connected to crank
527 through use of respective guide pins 533, 534. The foot
supports keeps the same horizontal level through a revolution of
the cranks 526, 527.
[0186] FIG. 57b shows a variant of the apparatus shown in FIG. 57a
where the conventional crank is labelled 527' and has a smaller
diameter than the crank 527 of FIG. 57a. Otherwise, the elements
included are the same, however the guide pins now labelled as 533'
and 534'. This provides an inclination of the foot supports during
a revolution of the cranks, simulating a kind of toe and heel tilt
close to a natural walking motion.
[0187] FIG. 58 shows schematically a training apparatus with a
crank device 540 according to the invention and a conventional
crank wheel 541, the cranks being connected together by means for
coordinating the rotational motion, as for example a belt or chain
542 or gears. The crank device 540 is linked to bars 543 and 544,
which serve as base for foot supporting means. The bars 543, 544
are slidably connected to foot supports 545 and 546, said foot
supports 545, 546 in an articulated manner being linked to crank
arms 549, 550, respectively. The foot supports 545, 546 keep the
same horizontal posture through a full revolution of the cranks.
The bars 543, 544 are optionally adjustable as regards fixing point
547 and 548, pins 553, 554 being provided for articulated joins
between rear of bars 543, 544 and crank 541 at selected fixing
points. The training apparatus has handlebars 551 and 552 tiltably
mounted at location 555 to a frame upright of the apparatus and in
articulated slide-shoe 557, 558 engagement with a front end of bars
543, 544.
[0188] FIG. 59 shows a variation of what is shown on FIG. 58, where
the bars 543, 544 are attached in articulated manner to a pivot
axle 559. Preferably the axle is vertically adjustable as indicated
by 559', for adjusting the inclination and movement of the foot
support.
[0189] FIGS. 60a and 60b show schematically a training apparatus
with a crank device 560 having inner crank arms 561, 561' and outer
crank arms 562, 562' according to the invention, and a conventional
crank wheel 563, the cranks 560, 563 connected together by means
for coordinating the rotational motion, as for example a belt or
chain 564. The crank device 560 is linked to telescopic bars 565
and 566, which serve as base for foot supporting means 567 and 568.
The telescopic bars 563, 564 are linked at a front end to the outer
crank arms 562, 562' via pivots and at the rear end to the crank
wheel via pivots 570, 570'. FIGS. 60a and 60b show both sides of
the training apparatus where it shows how the telescopic bars are
extended and compressed. FIG. 60c show another scenario of the
embodiment in FIGS. 60 and 60b during a revolution of the
cranks.
[0190] Other aspects of the invention regarding driving and braking
force of the crank will now be explained with reference to FIGS.
61a and 61b, and FIGS. 64a and 64d. There is a demand for a
training apparatus, which provides for smooth and easy motion of
the body without the user having to use force to drive the
apparatus, but only move legs and arms in order to follow a set
motion and pace of the apparatus. This kind of apparatus is not
intended to provide a braking force for the user to work against,
as the motion of the apparatus forcibly makes the user move legs
and arms at desired speed, in the fashion of a treadmill.
[0191] FIGS. 61a and 61b show a training apparatus with crank arm
device 600 similar to the apparatus and crank arm device 322 shown
and described in FIGS. 31 and 32 above. Handlebars 601 and 602 are
linked to a crank device in the fashion shown in FIGS. 31-35. The
apparatus shown in FIG. 61 does not have a flywheel. The crank
device is connected to an electric motor 604 through use of a
gearbox 605. A first pulley 607 is operated by the gearbox 605, and
the pulley 607 is connected with a second pulley 608 on a crank
axle 609 by means of a belt 610. The motor 604 has power supply
means (not shown on FIGS. 61a and 61b) and means for an apparatus
user to control the speed of the motor. FIG. 62 provides a
simplified block schematic indicating the crank arm device 600
connected to the motor 604. The motor 604 is powered a power supply
612 being a connection to the mains or a connection to a battery.
An activator 613 or a CPU (computer and/or programmed controllers)
is controlled by a unit 614 formed by a switch, a control panel and
a display means or formed a touch screen for user monitoring and
input, also referred to as an MM system as described above.
Preferably, a sensor 615 forms part of the system and signals to
the CPU or activator 613 the speed of any rotating part of the
crank device. The MMI system provides the user of all the
information needed to monitor and set the speed of the apparatus.
It is also possible to use an electric motor for creating
resistance and braking means on an embodiment of the apparatus
according to the invention. FIG. 63 shows the training apparatus
shown in FIG. 32, with the addition of an electric motor 620
operatively connected to the flywheel 621. The motor is either
connected to the flywheel directly by gear 622 as indicated on FIG.
64a or by pulley and belt 624 shown on FIG. 64b. In an electric DC
motor it is possible to change the current so that the motor either
can drive the crank arms or provide a resistance to movement of the
crank arms when forcibly moved by a user. To have this double
function the flywheel is needed for keeping a momentum when the
motor is not driving the crank. FIG. 65 shows a block schematic of
how such a system would be. A user is able to select between a
forced drive mode 625 or a movement resistance mode 626. The CPU
613 activates delivery of power 612 to the motor 620 which will
drive the crank device if forced drive mode 625 is selected. If
movement resistance mode 626 is selected the current setting of the
power in the motor will cause the drive direction of the crank
device to be in reverse direction so as to give a movement
resistance when crank is turned.
[0192] In the descriptive portion and the following claims foot
supporting means or foot supports should be understood as applying
to all kinds of pedals, pedal like devices, platforms and other
devices for apparatus made for placing feet and stepping on or
otherwise moving the feet for turning a crank like device.
[0193] The invention described can be subject to modification and
variations without thereby departing from the scope of the
inventive concept as disclosed with reference to the drawings and
further stated in the attached claims. To the extent that certain
functional elements can be replaced by other elements to enable the
same function to be performed by the various embodiments disclosed,
such technical equivalents are included within the scope of the
invention.
* * * * *
References