U.S. patent application number 12/298576 was filed with the patent office on 2009-03-12 for training device.
Invention is credited to Christian Wilhelm.
Application Number | 20090069157 12/298576 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37295965 |
Filed Date | 2009-03-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090069157 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Wilhelm; Christian |
March 12, 2009 |
TRAINING DEVICE
Abstract
The invention relates to a training device for stimulating and
training the locomotor system of a person. Said training device
comprises a pivotable seesaw (16) that supports the person and that
pivots in relation to a seesaw stand (19, 20, 21, 22), a drive
device comprising at least one motor (2) and a gearing comprising
gearing elements (5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 14'). Said gearing
elements (5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14, 14') form at least one
power-transmission chain between the seesaw (16) and the motor (2)
and at least one gearing element (14, 14', 29) is elastically
connected to the seesaw (16) or to a lifting element (28) that is
securely fixed to the seesaw (16). The invention also relates to a
training device in which the seesaw (16) is elastically held in
relation to the seesaw stand (19, 20, 21, 22).
Inventors: |
Wilhelm; Christian;
(Oberneufnach, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SMITH FROHWEIN TEMPEL GREENLEE BLAHA, LLC
Two Ravinia Drive, Suite 700
ATLANTA
GA
30346
US
|
Family ID: |
37295965 |
Appl. No.: |
12/298576 |
Filed: |
April 26, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
April 26, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP2007/003702 |
371 Date: |
October 27, 2008 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/51 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 2203/0406 20130101;
A61H 2201/1678 20130101; A61H 2201/0165 20130101; A61H 1/003
20130101; A61H 2201/164 20130101; A61H 1/005 20130101; A61H
2201/0134 20130101; A61H 2201/1215 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/51 |
International
Class: |
A63B 22/00 20060101
A63B022/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Apr 27, 2006 |
DE |
20 2006 006 828.7 |
Aug 7, 2006 |
DE |
20 2006 012 056.4 |
Claims
1. A training apparatus for the stimulation and training of the
locomotor system of a person, comprising a seesaw (16) supporting
the person and pivotable with respect to a seesaw stand
(19,20,21,22), and also a drive assembly with at least one motor
(2) and a transmission unit having transmission elements
(5,6,7,11,12,13,14,14'), wherein the transmission elements
(5,6,7,11,12,13,14,14') form at least one power-transmission chain
between the seesaw (16) and the motor (2), wherein at least one
transmission element (14,14';29) is elastically connected to the
seesaw (16) or to a lever element (28) securely connected to the
seesaw (16).
2. A training apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the elastic
connection is such that the transmission element (14) has at least
two different degrees of freedom of elastic movement relative to
the seesaw or to the lever element.
3. A training apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the elastic
connection is such that the transmission element (14) has at least
one degree of freedom of elastic pivotal movement relative to the
seesaw (16) or to the lever element.
4. A training apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the elastic
connection is such that the transmission element (14) has at least
one degree of freedom of elastic movement in the power-transmission
direction, in particular for the cushioning of the pivoting
movement imparted to the seesaw (16) in operation via the
power-transmission chain, in particular at the movement direction
reversal points.
5. A training apparatus according to any one of claim 4, wherein
for the elastic connection there is provided at least one
leaf-spring element (50;52;50,50a) which makes possible relative
pivotability between the seesaw (16) and the transmission element
(14,14';29) and/or a cushioning of the pivoting movement imparted
to the seesaw (16) in operation, in particular at the movement
direction reversal points thereof.
6. A training apparatus according to claim 5, wherein at least one
leaf-spring element (50;52;50,50a) is itself a transmission element
of the power-transmission chain, via which driving forces can be
transmitted to the seesaw (16).
7. The training apparatus according to claim 6, wherein for the
elastic connections at least two leaf-spring elements (50,50a) are
provided, which are connected in series and which can be deflected
elastically in different directions which are preferably orthogonal
to one another.
8. The training apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the seesaw
(16) is mounted elastically relative to the seesaw stand
(19,20,21,22,56;56a).
9. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the elastic
mounting of the seesaw is such that the seesaw (16) has at least
two different degrees of freedom of elastic movement relative to
the seesaw stand (19,20,21,22,56;56a).
10. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the seesaw
(16) has at least one degree of freedom of elastic pivoting
movement relative to the seesaw stand (19,20,21,22,56;56a).
11. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the
elastic connection is of a kind that the seesaw (16) has at least
one degree of freedom of elastic movement in a longitudinal
direction of the seesaw relative to the seesaw stands
(19,20,21,22,56;56a), in particular so as to make possible a
translational seesaw movement superimposed on the pivoting movement
of the seesaw.
12. The training apparatus according to claim 11, wherein a
translational movement of the seesaw (16) occurs relative to the
seesaw stand such that one point on a seesaw end, which is moving
up and down during the pivoting movement according to a maximum
movement travel, moves at least approximately on a path (B)
corresponding to a horizontal figure of eight.
13. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the
elastic connection is such that the seesaw (16) has at least one
degree of freedom of elastic movement in a vertical direction of
the training apparatus relative to the seesaw stand (56a), in
particular for cushioning the pivoting movement imparted to the
seesaw in operation, in particular at its movement direction
reversal points.
14. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein for the
elastic mountings at least one leaf spring element (54;54,54a) is
provided which ensures a possibility of relative pivoting movement
between the seesaw (16) and the seesaw stand (19,20,21,22,56;56a)
and/or a possibility of translational movement of the seesaw (16)
in its longitudinal direction relative to the seesaw stand
(19,20,21,22,56;56a) and/or a possibility of movement of the seesaw
(16) relative to the seesaw stand (56a) in a/the vertical direction
of the training apparatus.
15. The training apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the at
least one leaf-spring element (54;54,54a) is retained on the seesaw
side and/or on the stand side and the possibility of pivoting
movement and/or of translational movement and/or of movement in the
vertical direction of the seesaw (16) relative to the seesaw stand
(19,20,21,22,56;56a) is provided by a deflection of the leaf-spring
element (54) or at least one of a plurality of leaf-spring elements
(54,54a), in particular a bending or torsional deflection of the
leaf-spring element (54) or of the respective leaf-spring element
in respect of the possibility of pivoting movement and, in
particular, bending deflection of the leaf-spring element (54) or
of the respective leaf-spring element (54;54a) in respect of the
possibility of translational movement or the possibility of
movement in a vertical direction.
16. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein for the
elastic mounting, at least two series-connected leaf-spring
elements (54,54) are provided which can be elastically deflected in
different directions which are preferably orthogonal to one
another.
17. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein for the
mounting of the seesaw (16), the seesaw stand (19,20) includes a
support (56) which extends transversely to and under the seesaw
(16), and which is retained rigidly on a stand assembly (19,20) of
the seesaw stand.
18. The training apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the
mounting of the seesaw (16) comprises a support (56) which extends
transversely to and under the seesaw, and which is retained
elastically on a stand assembly (56a) of the seesaw stand.
19. The training apparatus according to claim 18, wherein the
support (56) is retained on the stand assembly (56a) by means of at
least one leaf-spring element (54a) which can preferably be
deflected in a vertical direction.
20. The training apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a single
leaf-spring element (54) or a plurality of leaf-spring elements
separate from another is/are clamped along the support (56) on the
underside of the seesaw and on the support (56).
21. The training apparatus according to claim 5, wherein that the
leaf-spring element (50;50a;52;54;54a) is made from metal, in
particular from steel.
22. The training apparatus according to claim 21, wherein the
leaf-spring element (50;50a;52; 54;54a) between the transmission
element (14,14') and the seesaw (16) or lever element (29) or
between the seesaw (16) and seesaw stand or support (56) is of
length of approximately 1.0 to 3.0 cm, preferably approximately 1.5
to 2.0 cm.
23. The training apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the
leaf-spring element (50;50a;52; 54;54a) is designed with a material
thickness of less than 5.0 mm, preferably of approximately 1.5
mm.
24. A training apparatus according to any one of the preceding
claims, characterised in that the elastically connected
transmission element (14,14';29) is a push rod/tie rod which, with
respect to the power-transmission chain, is connected in an
articulated manner at its end nearest the motor to a transmission
element in the form of a cam (6,13;26).
25. A training apparatus according to claim 24, wherein the cam
(6,13) is formed separate from the motor (2) and connected thereto
via another transmission element (5) of the power-transmission
chain, in particular via a belt or the like.
26. A training apparatus according to claim 25, wherein the cam
(26) is arranged directly on an output shaft of the motor (2).
27. A training apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the drive
assembly does in fact have a power-transmission chain or a
plurality of such power-transmission chains extending parallel to
one another and acting in synchronism on the seesaw (16).
28. A training apparatus according to claim 26, wherein the drive
assembly has at least two power-transmission chains acting in
push-pull mode on the seesaw.
29. The training apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the
power-transmission chain or the respective power-transmission chain
comprises a lifting device acting on the seesaw and engaging on the
underside thereof.
Description
[0001] The invention relates to a training apparatus for the
stimulation and training of the locomotor system of a person,
comprising a seesaw supporting the person and pivotable with
respect to a seesaw stand, and also a drive assembly with at least
one motor and a transmission unit having transmission elements,
wherein the transmission elements form at least one
power-transmission chain between the seesaw and the motor.
[0002] A training apparatus of this type is known from EP 0 929 284
B1, wherein a seesaw, on which the training person stands with both
legs, is driven by an electric motor which is in driving connection
with two lifting devices arranged on either side of the seesaw
axis. As a result of the provision of two lifting devices the drive
unit has two power-transmission chains which extend in opposition
to one another from the motor disposed below the seesaw axis and
operate synchronously to one another but counter-rotating, i.e. act
in opposed mode on the seesaw. Such a drive unit is altogether
relatively complicated and is therefore expensive. In operation it
is necessary for the two lifting devices to be accurately matched
to one another to ensure that they operate precisely in
counter-rotation and in alternation, and it is thus possible to
achieve a uniform pivoting operation of the seesaw without inner
distortion and excessive bearing loads. Moreover, owing to the
articulated but otherwise rigid drive of the seesaw without play,
an intermittent power transfer acts on the seesaw, which
particularly at high lifting frequencies is not especially
considerate with respect to the joints of the person being
trained.
[0003] In the known training apparatus the seesaw is mounted
without play on bearing blocks fixed to a frame so that the seesaw
always carries out the same seesaw movements, i.e. reciprocating
pivoting movements about a well-defined spatially located pivot
axis. It is only possible to vary the frequency of the seesaw
motion by setting a desired lifting frequency by means of a control
device.
[0004] It is the object of the invention to devise a training
apparatus, which makes possible a power transfer into the seesaw
which is considerate with respect to joints, wherein a more simple
construction with its associated cost savings in respect of
production and maintenance is to be taken into account.
[0005] This object is achieved in that at least one transmission
element is elastically connected to the seesaw or to a lever
element securely connected to the seesaw.
[0006] Such an elastic connection damps in an advantageous manner
shocks or impacts occurring at the bottom or top dead-centre
position of the pivoting movement. It is thereby possible for the
seesaw to be operated in a manner considerate to joints. Moreover,
owing to such an elastic connection it is possible to dispense with
a pivot bearing, which is both expensive and subject to wear, for
coupling the power-transmission chain to the seesaw or to the lever
element.
[0007] It is proposed that the elastic connection is such that the
transmission element has at least two different degrees of freedom
of elastic movement relative to the seesaw or to the lever element.
Preferably, the elastic connection is such that the transmission
element has at least one degree of freedom of elastic pivotal
movement relative to the seesaw or to the lever element.
[0008] With regard to the already mentioned damping of shocks, in
particular an elastic connection is proposed such that the
transmission element has at least one degree of freedom of elastic
movement in the power-transmission direction, in particular for the
cushioning of the pivoting movement imparted to the seesaw in
operation via the power-transmission chain, in particular at the
movement direction reversal points.
[0009] Accordingly, both cost advantages and important advantages
for the user are provided, namely the seesaw motion is carried out
in a manner which is more considerate to the joints and more
suitable for the body, with correspondingly especially high
therapeutic benefits.
[0010] In a further development it is proposed that for the elastic
connection there is provided at least one leaf-spring element which
makes possible relative pivotability between the seesaw and the
transmission element and/or a cushioning of the pivoting movement
imparted to the seesaw in operation, in particular at the movement
direction reversal points thereof. It is especially preferable here
that at least one leaf-spring element is itself a transmission
element of the power-transmission chain, via which driving forces
can be transmitted to the seesaw.
[0011] Such a leaf-spring element has the advantage that it makes
possible the desired elastic mounting and damping of shocks but in
which sufficient stability is provided in order to enable the
driving forces to be transmitted to the seesaw.
[0012] According to an especially advantageous development it is
proposed that for the elastic connection at least two leaf-spring
elements are provided, which are connected in series in the power
transmission chain and which can be deflected elastically in
different directions which are preferably orthogonal to one
another. An especially effective damping action can thus be
achieved.
[0013] However, in a further development but also independently it
is proposed that the seesaw is mounted elastically relative to the
seesaw stand.
[0014] Such a mounting is constructionally simpler and less liable
to wear compared to a pivot joint mounting known from the state of
the art. Moreover, as a result of the elastic mounting, in addition
to the pivoting movement component, further movement components
superimposed on the pivoting movement component are induced which
have the result that the seesaw carries out small irregular
movements. Such a movement pattern, which has as principal
component the pivoting movement and further components in different
spatial directions, above all preferably also a translational
movement component of the seesaw in deflection direction of a
leaf-spring element assembly possibly coming into consideration
advantageously acts on a training effect of the person using the
seesaw, since the person's body cannot adjust to a regularly
repeating movement pattern, such as is the case for example in the
seesaw apparatus known from the state of the art. The movement
pattern induced by the elastic mounting of the seesaw also does not
have a clearly definable effective pivot axis but in the course of
the movement to a certain extent a plurality of temporary movable
axes are developed, about which respective temporary partial
pivoting movements of the seesaw are carried out. In certain
circumstances, no effective pivot axis can be identified at all but
the pivoting movement results solely from a spatially distributed
deflection/deformation of the leaf-spring element assembly under
discussion here.
[0015] In particular, it is considered that the elastic mounting of
the seesaw is such that the seesaw has at least two, preferably at
least three, different degrees of freedom of elastic movement
relative to the seesaw stand.
[0016] Preferably, the elastic mounting is such that the seesaw has
at least one degree of freedom of elastic pivoting movement
relative to the seesaw stand. Therefore, a pivot bearing which is
liable to wear and is expensive can be replaced by a
constructionally per se very simple measure, as already
mentioned.
[0017] It is further proposed that the elastic connection is such
that the seesaw has at least one degree of freedom of elastic
movement in a longitudinal direction of the seesaw relative to the
seesaw stand, in particular so as to make possible a translational
seesaw movement superimposed on the pivoting movement of the
seesaw. This results in the just mentioned additional movement
component which is superimposed on the pivoting movement and is
very advantageous therapeutically. The seesaw no longer moves up
and down strictly according to a predetermined pivoting movement
pattern but can also move in its longitudinal direction (to the
right and left). This additional movement is dependent on various
influences, such as weight, practice and constitution of the
training person, etc. This results in undefined oscillations and
additional movements which are superimposed on the lifting movement
or the pivoting movement. It has been found that the body reacts
very strongly and positively on such a training, since an
accustomising effect is obviated or is at least reduced to a very
considerable extent.
[0018] Especially preferable is a translational movement of the
seesaw relative to the seesaw stand such that one point on a seesaw
end, which is moving up and down during the pivoting movement
according to a maximum movement travel, moves at least
approximately on a path corresponding to a horizontal figure of
eight. Such a movement path of the seesaw movement superimposed on
the pivoting movement appears to have especially good therapeutic
effectiveness. In any case in oriental medicine a horizontal figure
of eight is a significant and very positively regarded symbol which
stand for powerful and positive effects on humans.
[0019] Moreover, the elastic connection is preferred in such a way
that the seesaw has at least one degree of freedom of elastic
movement in a vertical direction of the training apparatus relative
to the seesaw stands, in particular for cushioning the pivoting
movement imparted to the seesaw in operation, in particular at its
movement direction reversal points. Such cushioning is considerate
to the joints and assists the therapeutic effect, as already
mentioned with respect to the elastic connection of the
transmission element to the seesaw or to the lever element.
[0020] Tests with patients and experts have shown that the
apparatus according to the invention with the elastic seesaw
mounting and the elastic connection of the power-transmission chain
feels very much more harmonic and gentler than the apparatus
according to the state of the art without such elasticities.
[0021] It is specially proposed that for the elastic mounting at
least one leaf-spring element is provided which ensures a
possibility of relative pivoting movement between the seesaw and
the seesaw stand and/or a possibility of translational movement of
the seesaw in its longitudinal direction relative to the seesaw
stand and/or a possibility of movement of the seesaw relative to
the seesaw stand in a/the vertical direction of the training
apparatus.
[0022] It is especially preferred here if the at least one
leaf-spring element is retained on the seesaw side and on the stand
side and the possibility of pivoting movement of the seesaw
relative to the seesaw stand is provided by a bending or torsional
deflection of the leaf-spring element. However, it is more
generally proposed that the at least one leaf-spring element is
retained on the seesaw side and on the stand side and the
possibility of pivoting movement and/or of translational movement
and/or of movement in the vertical direction of the seesaw relative
to the seesaw stand is effected by a deflection of the leaf-spring
element or at least one of a plurality of leaf-spring elements, in
particular a bending or torsional deflection of the leaf-spring
element or of the respective leaf-spring element in respect of the
possibility of pivoting movement and, in particular, bending
deflection of the leaf-spring element or of the respective
leaf-spring element in respect of the possibility of translational
movement or the possibility of movement in a vertical
direction.
[0023] In an especially advantageous manner for the elastic
mounting at least two series-connected leaf-spring elements can be
provided which can be elastically deflected in different directions
which are preferably orthogonal to one another so that, on the one
hand, especially good damping and, on the other hand, a pronounced
possibility of additional movement superimposed on the pivoting
movement is achieved.
[0024] Since the bending or torsional deflection is variable
depending on the dimensions and material characteristics of the
leaf-spring element and also depending on the loads acting on the
seesaw, even small alterations in the position of the person's feet
and/or variations in the lifting height or lifting frequency of the
seesaw result in a varied movement pattern so that the advantages
already described above are achieved in an especially effective
manner. However, it is to be noted that it is also possible for
other spring elements to be considered so as to achieve
corresponding advantages and effects.
[0025] In order to make possible the elastic mounting of the seesaw
it is proposed that the seesaw stand is designed to have a support
extending transversely to and under the seesaw, wherein it is
preferable that along the support a single leaf-spring element or a
plurality of mutually separate leaf-spring elements is/are clamped
on the underside of the seesaw and on the support. The support can
be retained rigidly on a stand assembly of the seesaw stand and, to
this extent, may be considered to be part of the seesaw stand.
[0026] However, according to an advantageous variant it is provided
for the mounting of the seesaw to comprise a support which extends
transversely to and under the seesaw, and which is preferably
retained elastically on a stand assembly of the seesaw stand. Such
a support may be considered to be part of the elastic mounting of
the seesaw on the seesaw stand and, for example, can be retained on
the stand assembly by means of at least one leaf-spring element
which can preferably be deflected in a vertical direction. In this
case too, it is preferable that a single leaf-spring element or a
plurality of leaf-spring elements separate from another is/are
clamped along the support on the underside of the seesaw and on the
support. Accordingly, a single leaf-spring element or a plurality
of separate leaf-spring elements can be clamped, on the one hand,
on the support and, on the other hand, on the stand assembly. It is
also possible to provide two leaf-spring elements arranged on
different sides of the support or two leaf-spring element groups
arranged on different sides of the support.
[0027] The mounting, optionally clamping, of the leaf-spring
element or the respective leaf-spring element is preferably
effected in a positive-engagement manner with the transmission
element or with the seesaw or with the support or the seesaw or the
stand assembly. Advantageously, it is also possible to provide an
adhesive or cohesive connection, for example by welding, bonding or
the like. A mounting of this type is clearly simpler and more
economical to build compared with a swivel joint arrangement with a
seesaw shaft mounted therein. Moreover, such a mounting of the
seesaw and also the already described elastic connection of the
transmission element to the seesaw or to a lever element securely
connected to the seesaw does not require any expensive maintenance,
in particular it does not require lubrication.
[0028] The leaf-spring element for the elastic connection of the at
least one transmission element and/or for the elastic mounting of
the seesaw is preferably produced from metal, in particular from
steel.
[0029] The leaf-spring element between the transmission element and
the seesaw or lever element or between the seesaw and seesaw stand
or support can in this case be of length of approximately 1.0 to
3.0 cm, preferably approximately 1.5 to 2.0 cm. Preferably the
leaf-spring element is designed with a material thickness of
<5.0 mm, preferably approximately 1.5 mm. Depending on the type
and configuration, the leaf-spring element can be formed by a
spring steel plate.
[0030] Of course, the dimensions mentioned here can also be adapted
to other materials under consideration, so as to enable the desired
mounting of the seesaw or connection of the transmission element to
be achieved.
[0031] It is also possible to use, instead of a leaf-spring element
in particular made of metal, a different elastic element, for
example made of plastics material, rubber or the like as connection
element or mounting element, wherein the dimensions of such an
elastic element have to be chosen in accordance with the desired
modes of operation of the seesaw. Such an elastic element made of
plastics material, rubber or the like can be provided in particular
as a mounting for the seesaw on the support securely connected to
the seesaw stand, since substantially static forces act on this
mounting, which exhibit only small dynamic force components during
the movement of the seesaw.
[0032] The elastically connected transmission element may be a push
rod/tie rod which, with respect to the power-transmission chain, is
connected in an articulated manner at its end nearest the motor to
a transmission element in the form of a cam.
[0033] Here the cam can be formed separate from the motor and
connected thereto via another transmission element of the
power-transmission chain, in particular via a belt or the like.
Such a configuration makes it possible for the motor and the cam to
be accommodated in a seesaw housing so that good weight
distribution and a high degree of stability of the training
apparatus is achieved.
[0034] Alternatively, it is also possible for the cam to be
arranged directly on an output shaft of the motor.
[0035] In a further development it is also proposed that the drive
assembly does in fact have a power-transmission chain or a
plurality of such power-transmission chains extending parallel to
one another and acting in synchronism on the seesaw. This results
in a very simple and thus economical construction of the training
apparatus. The arrangement of a plurality of power-transmission
chains acting in parallel and in synchronism on the seesaw has the
advantage that the synchronous operation of the various
power-transmission chains can be achieved very simply, in
particular much more simply than with known counter-rotating
power-transmission chains.
[0036] However, it may also be taken into consideration that the
drive assembly has at least two power-transmission chains acting in
push-pull mode on the seesaw. In this respect it would be possible
to provided a drive unit of the type as known per se from EP 0 929
284 B1.
[0037] It is preferable to provide for the power-transmission chain
or the respective power-transmission chains to comprise a lifting
device acting on the seesaw and engaging on the underside
thereof.
[0038] As a result of the elastic mounting of the seesaw in
combination with the elastic connection of the transmission element
it is possible to achieve a certain additional oscillation of the
seesaw in different spatial directions depending of the adjusted
seesaw amplitude and seesaw frequency. These oscillations are
irregular with respect to the actual seesaw oscillation driven by
the motor so that the person using the training apparatus, or
his/her body, cannot be permanently adapted thereto, whereby it is
possible to obviate an accustomising effect, as can be observed
with only regular oscillations. This has a positive effect on the
training effect. Such an oscillation which can be designated as a
two-dimensional, preferably three-dimensional, oscillation and
which is superimposed on the seesaw movement, is highly useful in
particular for certain diseases, for example Parkinson's.
[0039] Three examples of embodiments of a training apparatus
according to the invention will be illustrated in more detail below
with reference to the drawings, wherein:
[0040] FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a first embodiment of a
training apparatus from the rear (with the rear wall omitted);
[0041] FIG. 2 shows a plan view of the drive unit of the training
apparatus (with the seesaw omitted);
[0042] FIG. 3 shows a side view of drive unit according to FIG.
2;
[0043] FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of a second embodiment of the
training apparatus;
[0044] FIG. 5 shows a schematic view of a third embodiment of the
training apparatus;
[0045] FIG. 6 shows an enlargement of the zone designated VI in
FIG. 5;
[0046] FIG. 7 shows a schematic view of a mounting suitable for all
embodiments of the training apparatus;
[0047] FIG. 8 shows an enlarged detail of FIG. 5 to illustrate a
movement path of the seesaw, which is superimposed on a pivoting
movement and which can be advantageously achieved according to the
invention;
[0048] FIG. 9 shows a variant of embodiment of the seesaw in FIG. 5
in an illustration corresponding to FIG. 8.
[0049] The training apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1 is assembled
from a housing serving as a seesaw stand, with a base plate 1 which
is disposed in a lower region and on which are secured a vertical
front wall 20, a vertical rear wall 19 and vertical side walls 21
and 22 in such a way that the housing forms collectively an
upwardly open box.
[0050] A drive unit in the form of an electric motor 2 is anchored
to the base plate 1 by means of a plurality of fastenings 3. The
drive shaft of the electric motor 2 carries a pulley 4. A spindle 6
is mounted in two bearings 8 and 9 parallel to the drive shaft of
the electric motor 2 and spaced apart therefrom. A pulley 7 is
mounted on the spindle 6 in alignment with the pulley 4. A belt 5
runs over the pulleys 4 and 7 and is preferably in the form of a
toothed belt but may also be in form of a V-belt or a flat belt.
Alternatively, the drive is also possible by means of a chain,
cable, a gearwheel transmission, a bevel gear transmission or the
like, wherein in the case of a bevel gear transmission the drive
shaft of the electric motor 2 is arranged perpendicularly to the
spindle 6.
[0051] The bearings 8 and 9 are also mounted on the base plate 1 by
means of fastenings 10. In the vicinity of the bearings 8 and 9,
two cam discs 11 and 12 respectively are mounted on the spindle 6.
Respective eccentric pins 13 are arranged on the cam discs 11 and
12 parallel to the spindle 6 and in alignment with one another. The
lower ends of respective pivot levers 14,14' are rotatably mounted
on the eccentric pins 13. The upper ends of both pivot levers
14,14' are connected to the seesaw 16 by means of a respective
leaf-spring element 50. Here the leaf-spring elements 50 are
securely clamped both on the respective pivot lever 14,14' and on
the underside of the seesaw 16. When the pivot levers 14,14' are
caused to undergo an up-and-down movement by the rotation of the
cam discs 11,12, the leaf-spring elements 50 transmit the driving
forces to the seesaw 16 so that the latter is pivoted about the
seesaw axis 23. Owing to its elastic deflection the leaf-spring
element 50 thus damps shocks occurring in particular at the
dead-centre position of the eccentric motion so that they are not
transmitted directly and undamped to the seesaw and thus to the
person standing thereon. Of course, the leaf-spring elements 50
have such dimensions that they can transmit the effective driving
forces safely to the seesaw 16 so that the training apparatus can
be operated reliably.
[0052] In this example of embodiment, a drive assembly has,
starting from an electric motor 2, a power-transmission chain which
is formed by the pulley 4, the belt 5, the pulley 7, the spindle 6,
the two cams 11,12, the pivot levers 14,14' formed as push rods and
the leaf-spring elements 50. The power transmission is distributed
in parallel at the spindle 6 to the two cams 11,12 and the two
pivot levers 14,14'. The single power-transmission chain in the
example of embodiment thus has transmission elements which are
arranged parallel to one another which carry out the same movements
in operation and which belong to the same single drive assembly in
the example of embodiment.
[0053] In this embodiment, the seesaw 16 is mounted in its centre
and on its underside by means of a seesaw shaft 30 which defines
the seesaw axis 23 and which is mounted in a respective bearing 17
secured on the front wall 20 and on the rear wall 19 of the housing
by means of fastenings 18. The seesaw 16 has a total length L of
about 70 cm. The length L is slightly smaller than the distance
apart of the side walls 21 and 22 so that the seesaw 16 is arranged
almost flush with the upper edge of the housing but in relation to
the side walls 21 and 22 respectively and to the front wall 20 and
to the rear wall 19 has so much clearance that it can carry out an
oscillating swinging or pivoting motion about its seesaw axis 23.
However, the gaps between the side edges of the seesaw 16 and the
walls 19,20,21 and 22 are kept small enough to ensure than no parts
of the body or objects can become caught or jammed therein.
[0054] The amplitude of the oscillating swinging motion of the
seesaw 16 depends on the magnitude of the distance of the eccentric
pin 13 from the centre of the spindle 6. It also depends on the
length of the pivot lever 14 or of the position of a connection 15
of the pivot levers on the seesaw. Preferably, the amplitude is
variable from 1 mm to about 40 mm. Such variability of the
amplitude can be brought about, for example, by a set of
replaceable cam discs, the eccentric pins of which have different
distances from the spindle 6. Furthermore, when the cams are used
without variation, it is possible for the connection 15 to be
fastened to the seesaw so as to be displaceable in a direction
orthogonal to the seesaw axis. Such a releasable fastening could be
achieved, for example, by mutually engagable complementary
profiles, for example in the sense of detents or the like, on the
connections and the seesaw. In this case, for secure location of
the connections during operation, the profiles could be pressed
together and clamped by a screw connection or the like. Finally, it
is also provided for the pivot levers 14,14' to be designed so that
they are adjustable in length so as to set a central horizontality
or inclination of the seesaw. Of course, for the necessary
adjustment of the amplitude, combinations of the aforementioned
adjustment possibilities are also possible on different
transmission elements. The adjustment of such adjusting elements
can be effected manually or automatically, for example using
corresponding actuators. Of course, it is also possible, however,
for the user to control the amplitude by placing his/her feet on
the seesaw 16 to a greater or lesser extent to the right and left
of the seesaw axis 23.
[0055] The possibility of adjusting the pivotal amplitude
independently of the aforementioned change in the position of the
feet on the seesaw has the advantage that the training effect can
be enhanced while maintaining constant spacing of the feet which,
in particular, is ideal and comfortable for the person. Moreover,
by an adjustment of the amplitude independent of the foot position
it is possible to prevent extreme loads on the seesaw which occur
in particular when a person transmits all his/her weight to the
outside of the seesaw owing to a very wide apart foot position.
[0056] Furthermore, the speed of rotation of the electric motor 2
is variable so that a range of approximately 3 to 70 Hz can be set
for the frequency of the oscillating motion of the seesaw 16. The
variation in speed of the electric motor 2 is preferably effected
by a frequency converter.
[0057] The electric motor 2 and the lifting device with the spindle
6 are preferably arranged on different sides of the seesaw axis 23.
In this case, the bearings 8 and 9 for the spindle 6 and the
bearings 15 on the underside of the seesaw 16 are preferably
arranged in the outer quarter of the length L, whereas the heavier
electric motor 2 is disposed closer to the centre of the housing.
Altogether a balanced weight distribution is achieved thereby,
which facilitates the carrying of the training apparatus. The cam
discs 11 and 12 or the spindle 6 can be provided with balance
weights so as to prevent undesirable vibrations in the housing. The
seesaw 16 is in the form of a stable plate, optionally with
additional reinforcements, so that no oscillations can be caused by
alternating bending loads.
[0058] In view of the forces acting on it, the seesaw 16 preferably
takes the form of an aluminium plate which in the example of
embodiment has bracings (not shown) on its underside. The
orientation and dimensions of the bracings are so chosen here that
the seesaw does not undergo any appreciable distortion and/or
torsion as result of the unilateral parallel force transfer by
means of the two pivot levers 14,141. The bracings are preferably
formed by milling out recesses in the metal plate, which not only
brings about the desired stiffness but also a reduction in
weight.
[0059] The training apparatus is also preferably provided with the
control device 24 which is indicated in FIG. 1 and which has a
program memory 25 in which are stored a plurality of different
training programs, each of which has a different time
characteristic of the frequency and/or of the amplitude of the
oscillating swinging motion of the seesaw 16 and which can be
retrieved as and when required. By means of such a control device
it would also be possible to activate the above-mentioned actuators
of the adjusting elements for the purpose of amplitude
variation.
[0060] However, in the variant equipped with a program memory 25
and also in a simpler variant, the user can manually adjust the
frequency and/or the amplitude. The adjustment of the parameters is
preferably effected at a handle which is not shown, which is known
from the prior art mentioned in the introduction portion and which,
for example, is fastened to the front wall 20 and extends
approximately at breast height of the user. However, it may also be
effected, for example by a rotary switch on a side wall 22 of the
housing.
[0061] According to the second embodiment illustrated schematically
in FIG. 4, the training apparatus also comprises an upwardly open
housing with a base plate 1, on which are secured two side walls 21
and 22 and two front and rear walls (not shown). At a distance from
the walls a seesaw 16 in the form of a rectangular plate is
inserted into the open upper side of the housing. The seesaw 16 is
mounted for rotation in its longitudinal centre by means of a
seesaw shaft 30 in pivot bearings in the front and rear walls (not
shown) and is induced to undergo an oscillating swinging motion
about the seesaw axis 23 by a drive unit which will be described
below. Only the differences with regard to the example of
embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 will be explained below.
[0062] The drive unit comprises an electric motor 2 which is
mounted on the base plate 1 below the seesaw 16 and to the right
side thereof in FIG. 4. The speed of rotation of the electric motor
2 can be controlled and is connected via a cam to the underside of
the seesaw 16 in the vicinity of the seesaw shaft 30 so as to
transfer rotary force into the seesaw 16. Alternatively, the cam
can be connected with the seesaw shaft 30 which is connected to the
seesaw 16 in a manner precluding relative rotation. Finally, the
advantageous principle of a central rotary drive of the seesaw 16
can also be accomplished by a direct drive of the seesaw shaft 30
or of the seesaw rotatably mounted thereon by a reversible electric
motor.
[0063] The driven shaft of the electric motor 2 is securely
connected to a cam disc 26 which carries an eccentric pin 27.
[0064] In the vicinity of the shaft 30 one end of a pivot lever 28
is securely connected with the underside of the seesaw 16. The
other end of the pivot lever 28 is connected via a
force-transmission rod 29 to the eccentric pin 27 of the cam disc
26. The force-transmission rod 29 is connected elastically by means
of a leaf-spring element 52 to the lower end of the pivot lever 528
and the eccentric pin 27. The lower end of the pivot lever 28 is
situated above the base plate 1 at a distance therefrom.
[0065] Therefore, in the second embodiment, the power-transmission
chain of the transmission unit comprises the cam disc 26 with its
eccentric pin 27, the force-transmission rod 29, the leaf-spring
element 52 and the pivot lever 28. Together with the motor 2, they
form the single drive assembly. It is pointed out that the parallel
arrangement of a second such transmission unit is also possible,
which is either connected to the same motor (at the other end of
the motor shaft) or to a synchronously operating second motor. Two
power-transmission chains would thereby be provided, which extend
parallel to one another and operate in synchronism.
[0066] Rotary motion of the electric motor 2 imparts rotation to
the cam disc 26, the eccentric pin 27 of which entrains the end of
the force-transmission rod 29 articulated thereto, the rotary
motion of which is transmitted by means of the elastically acting
leaf-spring element 52 to the lower end of the pivot lever 28.
Since the upper end of the pivot lever 28 is located on the seesaw
16, the seesaw 16 is caused to rotate about its seesaw axis 23,
which results in the oscillating pivoting or swinging motion of the
seesaw 16. Owing to the leaf-spring element 52, damping of shocks
is achieved here as in the first embodiment.
[0067] Of course, also in this embodiment it is possible to provide
possibilities of adjustment on the transmission elements so that
the amplitude of the pivoting motion can be adjusted.
[0068] In an analogous manner to that in the first embodiment, a
training apparatus according to the second embodiment can be
connected to a control device similar to that in FIG. 1 but not
shown in FIG. 4.
[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates a third embodiment of the training
apparatus which differs from the first embodiment in that the
seesaw 16 is retained elastically by means of at least one further
leaf-spring element 54 on a support 56 attached to the housing of
the training apparatus, in particular to the walls 19,20 or other
stand assembly. The support 56 is here fastened to the front wall
19 and the rear wall 20 (cf. FIG. 2) and extends over the entire
width of the housing. The leaf-spring element 54 is clamped at 58
to the upper side of the support 56 in the manner of a
positive-engagement or preferably adhesive or cohesive connection.
An outwardly facing end of the leaf-spring element 54 is clamped at
60 in the seesaw 16. The leaf-spring element 54 is free between
these two clamping zones 58 and 60 and can be deformed to the left
and right with reference to FIG. 6 so that pivoting of the seesaw
16 can take place as a result of the driving force transmitted by
the pivot lever 14 to the seesaw 16. With a mounting of this type
no stationary pivot axis is defined here, as is the case of a pivot
mounting according to the embodiment in FIG. 1, since the extent of
the deformation and the exact course of any deflection of the
leaf-spring element 54 is influenced by different factors, for
example such as the weight of the person standing on the seesaw,
the position of the person's feet, seesaw frequency and lifting
height. In such an embodiment, the seesaw also does not undergo a
genuine rotating movement about a pivot axis but moves to the left
and right in a translational manner to a certain extent along an
arcuate course corresponding to the deformation of the leaf-spring
element 54 distributed spatially between the support and the
seesaw.
[0070] Advantageously, by means of the elastic mounting of the
seesaw 16 according to the invention it can be achieved that the
latter carries out a translational movement superimposed on the
actual pivoting motion so that a reference point at one end of the
seesaw follows a movement path corresponding to a horizontal figure
of eight, as indicated by the movement path B in FIG. 8.
[0071] It is to be noted that, instead of leaf-spring elements
extending in a vertical direction in cross-section, advantageously
it is also possible to provide leaf-spring elements extending in a
horizontal direction, in particular also in order to achieve
especially effective cushioning in a vertical direction. The same
applies to the elastic connection of the pivot lever to the seesaw
so as to cushion the upper and lower reversal point (dead-centre
position).
[0072] A plurality of series-connected spring elements, in
particular leaf-spring elements, can be provided as in the variant
of embodiment evident from FIG. 9. The pivot lever 14 is connected
to the seesaw 16 via first, approximately horizontally oriented
spring element 50a, an intermediate part 14a and a second,
approximately vertically oriented leaf-spring element 50. The
seesaw mounting is effected via a support 56 which is itself
elastically mounted and which is retained elastically on the stand
assembly 56a via first leaf-spring elements 54a extending
approximately horizontally in cross-section. Moreover, a
leaf-spring element 54 corresponding to the leaf-spring element 54
in FIG. 5 is operative between the support 56 and the seesaw
16.
[0073] It is to be noted that the pivoting movement does not
require a large amount of travel at the seesaw ends in order to
achieve a therapeutic effect. For example, with a seesaw of a
length of 80 cm from one end to the other end, a maximum travel at
the ends of approximately 12 mm can be provided. With regard to the
translational movement of the seesaw it is possible to provide for
a translational extent of approximately 2 mm superimposed on the
pivoting movement to occur so that, in the case of the movement
path B according to FIG. 8, the horizontal figure of eight has a
length of approximately 2 mm. The depth of the seesaw may be 40 cm
for example so that a plate with dimensions of 40.times.80 cm, for
example, can be used to produce the seesaw.
[0074] In particular, the configuration of FIG. 9 is especially
effective in cushioning and damping in a particularly effective
manner peaks and reversals in the direction of movement.
[0075] The leaf-spring element 54 can be formed, like the support
1056, continuously from the front side to the rear side, in which
case upon being clamped in the support 56 it is not directly
connected to the housing. However, it is also possible to provide a
plurality of leaf-spring elements separate from one another in the
support 56. A corresponding configuration arises on account of the
operating conditions to be satisfied or maximum loads which act on
such an elastic seesaw mounting during operation. The leaf-spring
elements 54 could be designed accordingly.
[0076] In addition to the provision of one or more leaf-spring
elements below the seesaw, it also possible to arrange one or more
leaf-spring elements on the seesaw in such a way that they protrude
on the front side or rear size of the seesaw and are directly
connected to the housing. In such an arrangement a pivoting
movement of the seesaw is made possible by a torsional deflection
of the leaf-spring elements and, moreover, effective cushioning in
a vertical direction can be simply achieved.
[0077] By using leaf-spring elements 50,52,54 according to the
above-described embodiments in each case at least one swivel joint
bearing assembly can be dispensed with, which makes possible a
simplified and economical construction of the training apparatus.
Moreover, maintenance costs are reduced because a mounting or
connection by means of a leaf-spring element does not have wearing
parts rubbing against one another and in which lubrication is
necessary.
[0078] With reference to FIG. 7 a possibility is described of
mounting the training apparatus on a substructure. The housing of
the training apparatus, in particular its front wall 20 and its
base plate 1, are illustrated schematically. The drive assembly or
seesaw mounting accommodated in the housing can be designed in
accordance with one of the above-described embodiments and will not
be described in more detail here. The housing rests with its base
plate 1 on four bearing elements 32, two of which are illustrated
and which themselves are supported on a base plate 34 of the
training apparatus. The base plate 34 is in turn supported in a
slip-resistant manner by corresponding support feet 36 on the floor
38 so that the base plate 34 does not move relative to the floor 38
during seesaw operation. Of course, the bearing elements 32 are
secured in a suitable manner to the base plate 1 of the housing or
the base plate 34.
[0079] Tubular rubber parts are used as the bearing elements 32,
wherein the two rubber parts 32 illustrated are aligned differently
in relation to the front wall 20 so that movements of the housing
in horizontal spatial directions disposed orthogonally to one
another can be uniformly accommodated. Of course, it is also
possible, however, for all the rubber parts of such a mounting to
be equally aligned.
[0080] A retaining device 40 is mounted on the base plate 34 and
has two rods 42 which extend vertically upwardly from the base
plate 34 and which are joined together at their upper ends via a
horizontal connecting member 44. Since the retaining device 40 is
connected to the base plate 34, the housing and the seesaw mounted
therein can move or swing freely relative to the base plate 34 and
the retaining device 40, in particular with three spatial degrees
of freedom.
[0081] The above-described mounting of the housing enables the
housing and the seesaw connected thereto to swing in any spatial
direction desired, wherein these oscillations have to be balanced
out by the body of the person standing on the seesaw, which has a
positive influence on the training effect for the person.
[0082] The irregularity of the oscillations induced by the mounting
of the housing can be intensified in particular with an elastic
mounting of the seesaw (cf. FIGS. 5 and 6), so that the training
effect can be further assisted in an advantageous manner.
[0083] A visual display unit (not shown), in particular a touch
screen, or other interface appliance can be attached to the
connecting member 44 and is connected with the control device 24
illustrated in FIG. 1, and makes it possible the adjustment of the
control device 24 by the person standing on the seesaw. Of course,
the rods 42 and the connecting member 44 can also be formed in one
piece with one another. The retaining device 40 simplifies for the
person using the training apparatus the stepping-on and off of the
seesaw mounted in a floating manner relative to the floor 38. The
retaining device also make possible for the person to keep a firm
hold during the seesawing, in the event that he/she temporarily
cannot hold the balance or if an adjustment of the seesaw frequency
and/or amplitude is carried out.
* * * * *