GB2538108A

GB2538108A - Foot exercising device and self-balancing powered unicycle device incorporating the same

Info

Publication number: GB2538108A
Application number: GB1507916.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Artemev Timur
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2015-05-08
Filing date: 2015-05-08
Publication date: 2016-11-09
Also published as: WO2016181113A1; GB201507916D0

Abstract

A foot exercising device is disclosed. The foot exercising device comprises: a support, a foot platform 165 supported intermediate the ends thereof on the support and adapted for movement relative to the support in two opposing directions; and foot platform movement resisting means which provides a resistive force against movement of the foot platform in at least one of the two opposing directions. Also disclosed is a powered unicycle device, which comprises a single wheel 120, balance control system which maintains fore-aft balance of the device, and a foot exercising device as disclosed, in some embodiments as a foot support.

Description

FOOT EXERCISING DEVICE AND

SELF-BALANCING POWERED UNICYCLE DEVICE INCORPORATING

THE SAME

Field of Invention

The present invention relates to foot and/or leg exercising devices and self-balancing powered unicycle devices incorporating the same.

to Background to the Invention

A wide variety of exercising devices are well known in the art. However, existing devices exhibit limited acceptance for many reasons, including bulkiness, weight, inconvenience and/or cost.

It is widely known that walking and movement of the feet are necessary for maintaining good health. A lack of such activity can result in muscle cramps throughout the legs, hips and other parts of the body. Unfortunately, many people do not normally undertake such activity, particularly those that lead a relatively sedentary lifestyle.

Summary of the invention

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a foot exercising device comprising: a support; a foot platform supported intermediate the ends thereof on the support and adapted for movement relative to the support in two opposing directions; and foot platform movement resisting means adapted to provide a resistive force against movement of the foot platform in 3(1 at least one of the two opposing directions.

There is proposed a device for exercising a foot and/or ankle of a person which is compact, portable and of low cost. The device may be used while the person is seated or standing, and it may stimulate blood circulation, strengthen foot muscles and aid in preserving a person's general good health.

Proposed embodiments may be of particular benefit to older persons who sit a great deal and/or people who lead a relatively sedentary lifestyle.

The foot platform may be adapted for pivotal movement relative to a longitudinal axis of the support in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Conversely, the foot platform may be adapted for pivotal movement about a rotation axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the support in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction.

Movement of the foot platform may be restricted to a substantially vertical plane.

The foot platform movement resisting means may be adapted to be adjustable so as to modify the resistive force against movement of the foot platform in at least one of the opposing directions. Embodiments may therefore enable the resistive force to be quickly and easily adjusted so as to vary the force required of a user to manipulate (e.g. pivot or move) the foot pedals.

Various arrangements of foot platform movement resisting means may be employed in embodiments. For example, the foot platform movement resisting means may comprise at least one of: one or more resilient bands adapted to be stretched by movement of the foot platform; one or more friction discs adapted to provide a frictional force that acts against movement of the foot platform; one or more elastic members adapted to deformed by movement of the foot platform; an electromagnetic device adapted to provide an electromagnetic force that acts against movement of the foot platform; and a gear arrangement comprising at least one gear wheel adapted to be rotated by movement of the foot platform. The resisting means may be provided internally or externally (e.g. inside or outside a housing).

Embodiments may thus be simple, inexpensive, rugged in construction, easy to use and efficient in operation.

By way of example, an embodiment may comprise a bearing shaft on which the foot platform is pivotally mounted. One or more elastic members may be adapted to retard pivotal movement of the foot platform with respect to the axis of the bearing shaft. The force required by a user to effect pivotal movement of the foot platform with respect to the shaft may be determined by the force required to effect deformation of the elastic members. Thus, the required force may be conveniently varied by adjusting the elastic member(s) in order to vary the resistance to deformation.

Embodiments may therefore employ a simple mechanical arrangement (such as a gear arrangement for example) for resisting pivotal or linear (e.g. vertical) movement of a foot platform.

Embodiments may further comprise an electric generator adapted to generate electrical power from movement of the foot platform. Thus, there is proposed an exercise device that can also provide a secondary function of generating electrical power from a user's usage of the device. The generated electrical power may be used to power a display, interface or other feature of the device, for example, thus avoiding the need for the device to employ batteries or a fixed-location power source that may otherwise reduce its portability and/or convenience.

Embodiments may further comprise a second foot platform coupled to the support shaft. In other words, there may be provided two foot platforms, one for each foot of a person. Furthermore, the second foot platform may be supported intermediate the ends thereof and adapted for movement relative to the support in opposing directions. The foot platform movement resisting means may be adapted to provide a resistive force against movement of the second foot platform in at least one of the opposing directions. Thus, there may be provided a resistive force that acts against movement of both of the foot platforms. Also, an electric generator may be provided between the two foot platforms so as to save space.

Further, embodiments may be adapted to only permit simultaneous movement of the foot platforms in opposite directions. In other words, embodiments may be adapted to prevent movement of the first and second platforms in the same direction at the same time. For example, simultaneous tilting of the first and second foot platforms in a forward direction (with respect to the axis of the support shaft) may be prevented, whereas tilting of the first foot platform in the forward direction may be permitted when the second foot platform is tilting in the rearward direction. In this way, as a user tilts/rotates a first foot platform in a forward direction (e.g. by pushing own with their toes on the front end of the first foot platform), a user may simultaneously tilt/rotate the second platform in a rearward direction (e.g. by pushing down with their heel on the rear end of the second foot platform). Conversely, as a user tilts/rotates a first foot platform in a forward direction (e.g. by pushing down with their toes on the front end of the first foot platform), a user may be prevented from simultaneously tilting/rotating the second platform in a forward direction. Such an arrangement that only permits opposing motion of the foot :u platforms may help to improve the stability of the device and/or reduce the potential of a user losing their balance when standing on the device.

Conversely, other embodiments may be adapted to only permit movement of the foot platforms in the same direction. For example, simultaneous tilting of the foot platforms in a forward direction may be enabled, whereas tilting of the first foot platform in the forward direction may be prevented when the second foot platform is tilting the in rearward direction. In this way, as a user tilts/rotates a first foot platform in a forward direction (e.g. by pushing own with their toes on the front end of the first foot platform), a user may be prevented from tilt/rotating the second platform in a rearward direction (e.g. by pushing down with their heel on the rear end of the second foot platform). Thus, as a user tilts/rotates a first foot platform in a forward direction with respect to the axis of the support shaft (e.g. by pushing down with their toes on the front end of the first foot platform), a user may be prevented from simultaneously tilting/rotating the second platform in a rearward direction with respect to the axis of the support shaft.

According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a self-balancing powered unicycle device comprising: a single wheel; a balance control system adapted to maintain fore-aft balance of the unicycle device; and a foot exercising device according to any preceding claim, wherein the foot exercising device is adapted to support a user of the unicycle device.

There is proposed a foot exercise device incorporated into a self-balancing powered unicycle device. A user may move, rotate or 'tilt' a foot platform of the powered unicycle device so as to exercise a foot and/or ankle whilst using the powered unicycle device.

In embodiments, the foot exercise device may be adapted to generate electrical power that is used by one or more features or functions of the powered unicycle device. In other words, electrical power may be generated by manipulating (e.g. moving, tilting or rotating) a foot platform of the unicycle device, and the generated electrical power may be used to alter, change or modify operation of at least a portion of the self-balancing powered unicycle device.

Thus, embodiments may be adapted to generate a supplementary power or electrical signal for charging a battery and/or controlling, limiting, changing, altering or modifying one or more operations, processes or procedures of the self-balancing powered unicycle. Such a supplementary power or signal may be generated by repeated rotation, tilting or moving of the foot platform(s).

The foot exercising device may be incorporated within a self-balancing powered unicycle. Thus, embodiments may be integrated into a foot platform of a self-balancing powered unicycle, thereby reducing or minimising an amount of extra space that may otherwise be required to accommodate such a device.

A foot platform may be adapted to be movable between a stowed configuration, wherein the foot plafform is substantially parallel with the plane of the single wheel, and an active configuration, wherein the foot platform is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the wheel so as to provide a support surface for a user.

Also, the foot platform may be coupled to the wheel (for example, via a gear and/or linkage arrangement) such that movement of the foot platform in at least one of the opposing directions drives rotation of the wheel. Movement of the foot platform may therefore be used to drive rotation of the wheel. Such driving of the wheel through movement of the foot platform may be how the wheel is driven/rotated, thus avoiding the need for another driving arrangement (such as an electric motor or combustion engine, for example). Alternatively, movement of the foot platform may be arranged to provide a secondary or supplementary source of power that is provided in addition to drive arrangement (such as an electric motor or combustion engine, for example, which is adapted to provide the main source of power for driving/rotating the wheel). In other words, embodiments may employ a hybrid drive arrangement wherein a primary drive arrangement is supplemented by movement of the foot platform.

For the avoidance of doubt, reference to a single wheel should be taken to mean the generally circular unit that is positioned between the legs of a user and adapted to rotate about an axis to propel the unicycle in a direction during use. The single wheel may therefore be formed from one or more tyres and/or hubs that are coupled together (via a differential, for example). For example, an embodiment may comprise a single hubless wheel having a single hubless rim with a plurality of separate tyres fitted thereon. Alternatively, an embodiment may comprise a single hubless wheel formed from a plurality of hubless rims (each having a respective tyre fitted thereon), wherein the plurality of hubless rims are coupled together via a differential bearing arrangement.

Embodiments may provide a self-balancing powered unicycle that can enable a user to exercise their feet, legs and/or ankles whilst riding the self-balancing powered unicycle. A self-balancing powered unicycle device may therefore be provided which has a secondary 'exercise' function.

Brief description of the drawings

An example of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying diagrams, in which: FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a user tilting a foot platform of a foot exercise device forward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a user tilting the foot platform of FIG. 1 rearward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an embodiment of a powered unicycle device in a closed configuration; FIG. 4 is an exploded diagram of components internal to the casing of FIG. 3, FIGS. 5A & 5B are side and front elevations, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the casing is moving between a closed and open configuration; n(1 FIGS. 6A & 6B are side and front elevations, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the casing is in an open configuration and the foot platforms are in a stowed configuration; FIG. 7 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the casing is in an open configuration and the foot platforms are in a stowed 25 configuration; FIGS. 8A & 8B are side and front elevations, respectively, of the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the casing is in an open configuration and the foot platforms are in an active configuration; FIG. 9 is an isometric view of the embodiment of FIG. 3, wherein the 3(1 casing is in an open configuration and the foot platforms are in an active configuration; FIG. 10 depicts a foot platform of a self-balancing powered unicycle according to an embodiment; FIG. 11A illustrates an example of a user tilting the foot platform of FIG. 10 forward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; FIG. 11B illustrates an example of a user tilting the foot platform of FIG. 10 forward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; wherein a portion of the foot platform is removed so as to reveal the control system; FIG. 12A illustrates an example of a user tilting the foot platform of FIG. 10 rearward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; FIG. 12B illustrates an example of a user tilting the foot platform of FIG. 10 rearward relative to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft; wherein the foot platform is made transparent so as to reveal the control system; FIG. 13 depicts the foot platform of FIG. 10 in a stowed configuration, wherein the foot platform and support shaft are substantially parallel with the plane of the single wheel; FIG. 14 depicts a foot exercising device according to another 15 embodiment; and FIG. 15 depicts a modification to self-balancing powered unicycle of FIGS. 3-9.

Detailed description

Referring to FIGS. 1-2 there is depicted a foot exercising device 10 according to an embodiment.

The foot exercising device 10 has a flat base plate 11 mounted upon rubber feet (not visible) so to prevent skidding upon a floor surface.

Upon the upper side of the plate 11 an upwardly projecting support 13 is secured, the support providing a horizontally extending support shaft or pin 14 upon which a foot platform 15 is pivotally supported. A pair of coil springs (not visible) are wrapped around the shaft and adapted to urge the foot platform 15 to a rest position wherein the top surface of the foot platform 15 lies substantially in a horizontal plane.

Thus, the foot platform 15 is rotatably mounted on a support shaft 14 such that the foot platform 15 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 14.

In operative use, a person (sitting in a chair for example) can place one foot on the foot platform 15 and push down thereupon one end of the foot platform 15 so as to pivot/rotate the foot platform about the axis of the support shaft 14. As the foot platform 15 pivots, the person's foot likewise pivots while applying downward force so that the muscles are exercised and strengthened.

Referring to Figure 1, there is depicted an example of a user tilting the foot platform 15 forward relative to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 14. Here, the user presses downwardly on a toe-end 20 of the foot platform 15. Pressing downwardly on the toe-end 20 of the foot platform 15 results in forward rotation of the foot platform about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 14. Such forward rotation of the foot platform is indicated by the arrow labeled "F" in Figure 1.

Due to the arrangement of the coil springs, there is provided a resistive force that acts against the forward pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 so as to urge the foot platform 15 in a backward direction towards the rest position of the foot platform 15.

Referring now to Figure 2, there is depicted an example of a user tilting the foot platform of Figure 1 rearward relative to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 14. Here, the user presses downwardly on a heel-end 25 of the foot platform 15. Pressing downwardly on a heel-end 25 of the foot platform 15 results in rearward rotation of the foot about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 14. Such rearward rotation of the foot platform is indicated by the arrow labeled "R" in Figure 2.

Due to the arrangement of the coil springs, there is provided a resistive force that acts against the rearward pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 so as to urge the foot platform 15 in a forward direction towards the rest position of the foot platform 15.

Thus, it will be appreciated that the foot exercising device of Figures 1-2 includes foot platform movement resisting means adapted to provide a resistive force against pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 in both the clockwise and counterclockwise direction.

The device 10 is thus useful for exercising a foot and/or ankle of a person, and the device 10 is relatively compact, portable and of low cost. The device may also be used while the person is seated or standing.

The foot platform movement resisting means may be adapted to be adjustable so as to modify the resistive force against pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 in at least one of the clockwise direction and the counterclockwise direction. For example, the embodiment of Figures 1-2 may be adapted so as to allow quick and easy removal or addition of springs so that the resistive force required of a user to pivot the foot platform 15 can be quickly and easily adjusted.

Although the embodiment of Figures 1-2 has been described as employing springs which provide a resistive force against pivoting of the foot platform 15 about the axis of the support shaft 14, it will be understood that other arrangements of foot platform movement resisting means may be employed in alternative embodiments.

For example, the foot platform movement resisting means may comprise one or more resilient bands adapted to be stretched by pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 relative to the axis L of the support shaft. Other embodiments may employ one or more friction discs adapted to contact at least part of the foot platform 15 so as to provide a frictional force that acts against pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 relative to the the axis L of the support shaft 14. Other embodiments may employ one or more elastic members adapted to be deformed by pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 relative to the axis L of the support shaft 14. Further, other embodiments may comprise a gear arrangement comprising a gear wheel adapted to be rotated by pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 relative to the axis L of the support shaft 14. It will therefore be understood that various embodiments may be simple, inexpensive, rugged in construction, easy to use and efficient in operation.

In particular, an alternative embodiment comprises a bearing shaft on which the foot platform 15 is pivotally mounted. One or more elastic members may be adapted to retard pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 (in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions) with respect to the axis L of the bearing shaft. The force required by a user to effect pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 with respect to the shaft may be determined by the force required to effect deformation of the elastic members. Thus, the required force may be conveniently varied by adjusting the elastic member(s) in order to vary the resistance to deformation.

Further, embodiments (such as that illustrated in Figures 1-2) may comprise an electrical generator adapted to generate electrical power from pivotal movement of the foot platform 15. Such electrical generators which are adapted to generate electrical energy from movement (and their implementation) are widely known and available. Accordingly, detailed description of their arrangement and implementation in an embodiment will be omitted from this description.

It is noted, however, that the foot platform movement resisting means may comprise an electrical generator which is adapted to provide an electromagnetic force that acts against pivotal movement of the foot platform about the axis of the support shaft. The same electrical generator may be used to generate electrical energy from pivotal movement of the foot platform 15. Thus, an electrical generator employed in an embodiment may have a dual function, namely a first function to provide a resistive force against pivotal movement of the foot platform in at least one of the clockwise and counterclockwise direction, and a second function to generate electrical energy from pivotal movement of the foot platform 15 Thus, there is proposed an exercise device that can also provide a secondary function of generating electrical power from a user's usage of the device. The generated electrical power may be used to charge a battery and/or power a display, interface or other feature of the device, for example, thus avoiding the need for the device to employ batteries or a fixed-location power source that may otherwise reduce its portability and/or convenience.

A foot exercising device according to an embodiment may be incorporated with a self-balancing powered unicycle. For example, embodiments may be integrated into a foot platform of a self-balancing powered unicycle, thereby reducing or minimising an amount of extra space that may otherwise be required to accommodate such a device.

FIGS. 3-9 show one embodiment of a powered unicycle device 100. FIG. 3 shows the powered unicycle device 100 with a casing 110 in a closed configuration so that it encases a single wheel 120. Here, the casing 110 is formed from a first, upper portion 110A that covers the top (uppermost) half of the wheel 120, and a second, lower portion 110B that covers the bottom (lowermost) half of the wheel 120. FIG 4 illustrates an exploded view of components internal to the casing 110, namely a wheel 120 and drive arrangement 135.

Referring back to FIG. 3, the wheel 120 spins about a central axis 125. The first, upper portion 110A of the casing is retained in a fixed position relative to the central axis 125, whereas the second, lower portion 110B of the casing is adapted to rotate about the central axis 125. Rotation of the second lower portion 110B about the central axis 125 moves the casing between closed and open configurations (as illustrated by FIGS. 5-6). In the closed configuration (shown in FIG.3), the casing 110 encloses the wheel 120 so that the outer rim 130 of the wheel 120 is not exposed. In the open configuration (shown in FIG. 7), the outer rim 130 of the wheel 120 is exposed so that it can contact a ground surface.

Referring now to FIG. 4, rotation of the single wheel 120 is driven by a drive arrangement 135 according to an embodiment. The drive arrangement 135 includes guide wheels 140 attached to an outwardly facing side of respective batteries 145. In this embodiment, there are two pairs of angled guide wheels 140, wherein the two guide wheels in each pair share are tapered or conical such that they have a sloped surface which is not perpendicular to the radial plane of the single wheel 120. Put another way, the contact surface of each guide wheel is inclined with respect to the radial plane of the single wheel 120. The guide wheels 140 of each pair are also positioned spaced apart to provide a gap between the two guide wheels of a pair.

A rib 150 is provided around the inner rim of the wheel 120 and fits into the gap between the two guide wheels 140 in each pair. The guide wheels 140 are therefore adapted to contact with the inner rim of wheel 120 where they spin along with wheel 120 and hold wheel 120 in place by way of the rib 150.

Of course, it will be appreciated that other arrangements, including those with only one guide wheel per battery 145, are possible.

The batteries 145 are mounted on a motor 155 which drives a pair of drive wheels 160 positioned at the lowermost point along the inner rim of the wheel 120. The batteries 145 supply power to motor 155 and, this embodiment, there are two batteries in order to create a balanced distribution of volume and weight. However, it is not necessary to employ two batteries 145. Also, alternative energy storage arrangements may be used, such as a flywheel, capacitors, and other known power storage devices, for example.

The drive arrangement 135 is adapted to be fitted inside the wheel. In other words, the drive arrangement is sized and shaped so that it can be positioned in the void define by the inner rim of the wheel 120. Further, the drive arrangement 135 is movable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration.

In the locked configuration, when fitted inside the wheel 120, the drive arrangement 135 engages with the rim of the wheel 120 to prevent its removal from the wheel. Here, in the embodiment shown, the guide wheels 140 contact the inner rim of wheel 120 and hold wheel 120 in place by way of the rib 150 when the drive arrangement is in the locked configuration.

In the unlocked configuration, when fitted inside the wheel 120, the drive arrangement 135 disengages with the rim of the wheel 120 to permit its removal from the wheel. Here, in the embodiment shown, the drive arrangement contracts in size when moved from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration so that the guide wheels 140 no longer contact the inner rim of wheel 120 and no longer hold the wheel 120 in place by way of the rib 150. Such reduced size (e.g. diameter) of the drive arrangement 135 when in the unlocked configuration thus enables the drive arrangement 135 to be removed from the wheel 120.

It will therefore be understood that the drive arrangement 135 of the illustrated embodiment can be quickly and easily connected or removed to/from the wheel 120 for repair or replacement, for example. Arranging the drive arrangement 135 in the unlocked configuration permits its removal or fitting from/to the wheel 120 (because, for example, its dimensions when in the :u unlocked configuration permit its fitting inside the wheel). When fitted inside the wheel 120, the drive arrangement can be arranged in the locked configuration so that it engages with the rim of the wheel 120 to prevent its removal (because, for example, its dimensions when in the locked configuration prevent the drive arrangement from being removed from the wheel).

When the drive arrangement 135 is fitted inside the wheel and in the locked configuration, a pair of drive wheels (not visible in Figure 4) is adapted to contact the inner rim of the wheel 120. Here, the pair of drive wheels comprises first and second rollers that are inclined with respect to the radial plane of the wheel. By way of contact with the inner rim of the wheel 120, the drive wheels transmit torque from the motor 155 to the wheel 120. It will be understood that this drive system operates by friction and it may be preferable to avoid slippage between the drive wheels and the inner rim of wheel 120.

Positioning the drive wheels at the lowermost point enables the weight of a user to provide a force which presses the drive wheels against the inner rim of the wheel 120, thereby helping to reduce or avoid slippage.

Referring to FIGS. 7-9, two foot platforms 165 are coupled to the second, lower portion 110B of the casing 110, with one on each side of wheel 120. In the open configuration, the foot platforms 165 are movable between a stowed configuration, wherein the foot platforms are substantially parallel with the plane of the wheel (as shown in FIG. 5), and an active configuration, wherein the foot platforms are substantially perpendicular to the plane of the wheel (as shown in FIGS. 8-9) so as to support a user's weight. Thus, in this embodiment, the foot platforms 165 are movable between: (i) a stowed configuration wherein they are flat against the side of the wheel and can be rotated (with the second, lower portion 110B of the casing) about the central axis 125 so as to be positioned inside (and covered by) the first, upper portion 110A of the casing; and (ii) an active configuration, wherein they project outwardly from the side of the wheel to provide a support surface for the feet of a user. Accordingly, the foot platforms 165 are upwardly foldable into a stowed configuration that narrows the profile of the unicycle 100 to aid in storage and carrying. In use, the foot platforms are moved to the active configuration, and the user stands with one foot on each platform 165.

The drive arrangement 135 includes a gyroscope or accelerometer system 170 (otherwise referred to as a balance control system) which senses forward and backward tilt of the device in relation to the ground surface and regulates the motor 155 accordingly to keep the device upright. In this way, the user is provided a way of controlling the acceleration and deceleration of the unicycle by varying the pressure applied to various areas of the foot platforms 165. It also enables the unicycle to self-regulate its balance in the fore-and-aft plane.

When not in use, the foot platforms 165 are moved to the stowed configuration and then rotated (with the second, lower portion 110B of the casing) about the central axis 125 so as to move the casing to the closed configuration. Thus, in the closed configuration, the foot platforms 165 are stored inside the casing (covered by the first, upper portion 110A of the casing).

The embodiment of FIGS. 7-9 also comprises a lifting handle 180 coupled to the drive arrangement 135 via a plurality of rods 185. The lifting handle 180 is positioned at the top of the casing 110, above the wheel 120, and may be used to hold the unicycle 100 above the ground, for example to enable a user to lift, carry, convey or place the unicycle 100.

A retractable carrying strap 190 is also provided and attached to the top of the casing 100. The carrying strap 190 may be used to carry the unicycle 100, for example over the shoulder of user. A hook may be provided on the bottom of the case to create rucksack-like belts from the carrying strap 190.

The embodiment of FIGS. 1-7 also comprises a foot exercise device according to an embodiment. More specifically, in this embodiment, each of the foot platforms 165 is supported intermediate the ends thereof on a support shaft and adapted for pivotal movement relative to the axis of the support shaft in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Also provided are :u movement resisting means adapted to provide a resistive force against pivotal movement of the foot platforms in at least one of the clockwise and counterclockwise direction.

Here, the movement resisting means comprise a gear arrangement (not visible) comprising at least one gear rotor adapted to be rotated as a result of pivotal movement of the foot platforms relative to the axis of the support shaft.

By way of example, a user may simultaneously tilt one the foot platforms 165 forward (e.g. press downwardly on a toe-end of the foot platforms 165) and one the foot platform 165 rearward (e.g. press downwardly on a heel-end of the foot platform 165). This tilting/pivoting movement may then be repeatedly reversed so as to exercise the foot and/or ankles of the user.

Referring to FIG.10, there is depicted a foot platform 300 of a self-balancing powered unicycle according to an embodiment, wherein part of the external surface of the foot platform 300 has been removed to show/expose components housed within the foot platform 300.

The foot platform 300 is rotatably mounted on a support shaft 320 such that the foot platform 300 can be rotated about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320. Within the foot platform, there is provided a gear wheel 330 which is arranged to mesh with a gear 340 provided on the support shaft 320.

The gear wheel 330 is adapted to lie in a plane which is substantially parallel with the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform. Further, the gear wheel 330 is rotatably mounted to the inner (i.e. downwardly facing) side of the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300 such that is remains in a fixed relationship with the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300. In this way, the gear wheel 330 is maintained in a parallel relationship with the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300, but is adapted to be rotatable with respect to the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300 (about an axis substantially perpendicular to the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300).

Here, the gear 340 on the support shaft 320 comprises peripheral teeth 340, and the gear wheel 330 comprises a circular arrangement of teeth 350 adapted to mesh with the peripheral teeth 340 of the support shaft 320.

Due to the meshing of the teeth 350 with the peripheral teeth 340 of the support shaft 320, and the mounting of the gear wheel 330 to the inner (i.e. downwardly facing) side of the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300, rotational movement of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 320 causes rotation of the gear wheel 330 about an axis A substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 320 (and perpendicular to the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300).

Rotation of the gear wheel 330 can provide a resistive force that acts against rotational movement of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 320. Also, rotation of the gear wheel 330 can be used to generate electrical power (via an electrical generator (not shown) for

example).

By way of example, rotation of the gear wheel 330 may be converted into electrical energy by way of an electrical generator. Electrical generators are well-known and may convert rotational movement of a component (such as the gear wheel 330) into electrical energy.

Referring to Figure 11, there is depicted an example of a user tilting the foot platform of Figure 10 forward relative to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320. Here, the user presses downwardly on a toe-end 400 of the foot platform 300. Pressing downwardly on a toe-end 400 of the foot platform 300 results in forward rotation of the foot platform (relative to the travel/rotational direction of the wheel) about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320. Such forward rotation of the foot platform is indicated by the arrow labeled "F" in Figures 11A and 1 1 B. Due to the meshing of the teeth 350 (of the gear wheel 330) with the peripheral teeth 340 of the support shaft 320, and also due to the mounting of the gear wheel 330 to the inner (i.e. downwardly facing) side of the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300, forward rotational movement F of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320 causes rotation of the gear wheel 330 about an axis A substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 320 (and perpendicular to the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300) as is indicated by the arrow labeled "RF" in Figures 11A and 11B.

The rotation RF of the gear wheel 330 is converted into electrical energy for charging a battery and/or controlling, limiting, changing, altering or modifying one or more operations, processes or procedures of the drive arrangement 135, for example. The gear arrangement also provides a resistive force the acts against the rotational movement F of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320.

Referring now to Figure 12, there is depicted an example of a user tilting the foot platform of Figure 10 rearward relative to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320. Here, the user presses downwardly on a heel-end 450 of the foot platform 300. Pressing downwardly on a heel-end 450 of the foot platform 300 results in rearward rotation of the foot platform (relative to the travel/rotational direction of the wheel) about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320. Such rearward rotation of the foot platform is indicated by the arrow labeled "R" in Figures 12A and 12B.

Due to the meshing of the teeth 350 (of the gear wheel 330) with the peripheral teeth 340 of the support shaft 320, and also due to the mounting of the gear wheel 330 to the inner (i.e. downwardly facing) side of the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300, rearward rotational movement R of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320 causes rotation of the gear wheel 330 about an axis A substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 320 (and perpendicular to the upper (foot supporting) surface of the foot platform 300) as is indicated by the arrow labeled "RR" in Figures 12A and 12B.

The rotation RR of the gear wheel 330 is converted into electrical energy for charging a battery and/or controlling, limiting, changing, altering or modifying one or more operations, processes or procedures of the drive arrangement 135, for example. The gear arrangement also provides a resistive force the acts against the rotational movement F of the foot platform 300 about the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 320.

As depicted in Figure 13, the foot platform 300 of Figure 10 is movable to a stowed configuration, wherein the foot platform 300 and support shaft 320 are substantially parallel with the plane of the single wheel.

Referring to FIG. 14A there is depicted a foot exercising device according to another embodiment.

The foot exercising device 1000 has a flat base plate 1100 mounted upon rubber feet 1150 so to prevent skidding upon a floor surface.

Upon the upper side of the plate 1100 an upwardly projecting support 1300 is secured, the support 1300 providing a pivotally mounted support shaft 1400 upon which a foot platform 1500 is pivotally supported. A pair of coil springs (not visible) are adapted to urge the foot platform 1500 to a rest position wherein the support shaft 1400 extends substantially horizontally outward from the upwardly projecting support 1300 and wherein the top surface of the foot platform 1500 lies substantially in a horizontal plane (and is therefore substantially parallel with the support 1400).

Thus, the foot platform 1500 is rotatably mounted on a support shaft 1400 such that the foot platform 1500 can be rotated about an axis of rotation X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 1400.

In operative use, a person (sitting in a chair for example) can place one foot on the foot platform 1500 and push down thereupon the foot platform 1500 so as to pivot/rotate the support shaft 1400 about pivotal connection axis Y in a downward, clockwise direction (when viewed from the angled depicted in Figure 14A) as illustrated by the dashed lines. The top surface of the foot platform 1500 is maintained in a substantially horizontal plane and, as a result, the foot platform 1500 can rotate relative to the support shaft 1400 about the axis of rotation X (that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the support shaft 1400).

It will be understood that the foot platform 1500 of Figure 14 is adapted for pivotal movement about a rotation axis X that is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support shaft 1400 in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Also, movement of the foot platform 1500 is restricted to a generally vertical plane, due to the length of the support shaft (and thus the radius of rotation defined by the support shaft 1400). In other embodiment, the movement of the foot platform may be restricted to a substantially vertical plane, by employing a vertical guide track and telescopic support shaft for example. Other arrangements for restricting movement of the foot platform to a substantially vertical plane may be used, for example including telescoping actuator arrangements, guide and follower, etc. Referring to FIG. 14B there is depicted a foot exercising device according to another embodiment.

The foot exercising device has a flat base plate 1101 mounted upon rubber feet 1151 so to prevent skidding upon a floor surface.

Upon the upper side of the plate 1101 an upwardly projecting support 1301 is secured, the support 1301 providing a pair of pivotally mounted support shafts 1401 upon which a foot platform 1501 is pivotally supported. A pair of coil springs (not visible) are adapted to urge the foot platform 1501 to a rest position wherein the pair of support shafts 1401 extend substantially horizontally outward from the upwardly projecting support 130.

Thus, the foot platform 1501 is rotatably mounted on a pair of support shafts 1401 such that the foot platform 1501 can be rotated about axes of rotation X that are perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the support shafts 1401.

In operative use, a person (sitting in a chair for example) can place one foot on the foot platform 1501 and push down thereupon the foot platform 1501 so as to pivot/rotate the support shafts 1401 about pivotal connection axes Y in a downward, clockwise direction (when viewed from the viewing angle depicted in Figure 14B) as illustrated by the dashed lines. The top surface of the foot platform 1500 is maintained in a substantially horizontal plane. Further movement of the foot platform is restricted to a vertical plane by a guide track 1601 which is arranged to restrict lateral movement of the foot platform 1501 towards the support 1301. To cater for this restcition, the support shafts 1401 are telescopic so that their lengths can increase/decrease as the support shafts pivots about axes Y). As a result, the foot platform 1501 moves in a vertical plane (whilst pivoting relative to the support shafts 1401 about the axes of rotation X (which are perpendicular to the longitudinal axes of the support shafts 1401).

It will be understood that the foot platform 1500 of Figure 14 is adapted for substantially vertical movement (e.g. upwards and downwards). Movement of the foot platform 1500 is restricted to a generally vertical plane, due to the length of the support shafts being adapted to be variable. Other arrangements for restricting movement of the foot platform to a substantially vertical plane may be used, for example including telescoping actuator arrangements, guide and follower, etc. Turning to Figure 15, there is depicted a modification to the embodiment of Figures 3-9. Here, the wherein the foot platforms are adapted for movement up and down in a generally vertical plane (as guided by a channel formed in the casing of the unicycle device). By way of example, the embodiment of Figure 15 may employ an arrangement similar to that shown in Figure 14B. However, other exercise device arrangements which restrict movement of the foot platform(s) to a substantially vertical plane may be used, for example an arrangement which employs a linear telescopic actuator.

While specific embodiments have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications will be apparent to a person skilled in the art 25 and may be made without departing from the scope of the invention.

For example, although embodiments have been described as employing a circular arrangement of teeth adapted to mesh with the gear of the support shaft, other arrangements may be used so that rotational movement of a foot platform relative to the support shaft is resisted. For example, the support shaft may comprise a helical gear, and the gear wheel may comprise peripheral teeth adapted to mesh with the helical gear of the support shaft.

Embodiments may further comprise a second foot platform. The second foot platform may or may not be adapted to be rotatable about an axis of a support shaft. If the second foot plafform is adapted to be rotatable, it may be supported intermediate the ends thereof and adapted for pivotal movement about the axis of the support shaft in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction. In other words, there may be provided two foot platforms, one for each foot of a person. The foot plafform movement resisting means may be adapted to provide a resistive force against pivotal movement of the second foot platform in the clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Thus, there may be provided a resistive force that acts against pivotal movement of both of the foot platforms.

It will be appreciated that there is proposed a foot exercise device incorporated into a self-balancing powered unicycle device. A user may rotate or 'tilt' a foot platform of the powered unicycle device so as to exercise a foot and/or ankle whilst using the powered unicycle device.

Embodiments may provide a self-balancing powered unicycle that can enable a user to exercise their feet and/or ankles whilst riding the self-balancing *10 powered unicycle. A self-balancing powered unicycle device may therefore be provided which has a secondary 'exercise' function.

Also, in embodiments, the foot exercise device may be adapted to generate electrical power that is used by one or more features or functions of the powered unicycle device. In other words, electrical power may be generated by manipulating (e.g. tilting or rotating) a foot platform of the unicycle device, and the generated electrical power may be used to alter, change or modify operation of at least a portion of the self-balancing powered unicycle device.

Thus, embodiments may be adapted to generate a supplementary power or electrical signal for controlling, limiting, changing, altering or modifying one or more operations, processes or procedures of the self-balancing powered unicycle. Such a supplementary power or signal may be generated by repeated rotation (or 'tilting') of the foot platform(s) relative to a support shaft.

Claims

Claims 1. A foot exercising device comprising: a support; a foot platform supported intermediate the ends thereof on the support and adapted for movement relative to the support in two opposing directions; and foot platform movement resisting means adapted to provide a resistive force against movement of the foot platform in at least one of the two opposing directions.
2. The foot exercising device of claim 1, wherein the foot platform is adapted for pivotal movement relative to a longitudinal axis of the support in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction.
3. The foot exercising device of claim 1, wherein the foot platform is adapted for pivotal movement about a rotation axis perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the support in a clockwise and counterclockwise direction.
4. The foot exercising device of claim 1, wherein movement of the foot platform is restricted to a substantially vertical plane.
5. The foot exercising device of any preceding claim, wherein the foot platform movement resisting means are adapted to be adjustable so as to modify the resistive force against movement of the foot platform in at least one of the opposing directions.
6. The foot exercising device of any preceding claim, wherein the foot platform movement resisting means comprise at least one of: an electromagnetic device adapted to provide an electromagnetic force that acts against movement of the foot; one or more resilient bands adapted to be stretched by movement of the foot platform; one or more friction discs adapted to provide a frictional force that acts against movement of the foot platform; one or more elastic members adapted to deformed by movement of the foot platform; a pulley arrangement adapted to provide a force that acts against movement of the foot platform; a lever arrangement adapted to provide a force that acts against movement of the foot platform; an energy conversion arrangement adapted to transmit energy from 10 movement of the foot platform to an energy consuming device; and a gear arrangement comprising at least one gear rotor adapted to be rotated as a result of movement of the foot.
7 The foot exercising device of any preceding claim, further comprising: an electric generator adapted to generate electrical power from movement of the foot platform.
8 The foot exercising device of any preceding claim further comprising: a second foot platform coupled to the support shaft.
9. The foot exercising device of claim 8, wherein the second foot platform is supported intermediate the ends thereof and adapted for movement relative to the support shaft in two opposing directions, and wherein the foot platform movement resisting means are further 25 adapted to provide a resistive force against movement of the second foot platform in at least one of the two opposing directions.
10. The foot exercising device of claim 9, wherein the foot exercising device is adapted to prevent simultaneous movement of the foot platforms in :3(1 opposite directions.
11. The foot exercising device of claim 9, wherein the foot exercising device is adapted to prevent simultaneous movement of the foot platforms in the same direction.
12. A self-balancing powered unicycle device comprising: a single wheel; a balance control system adapted to maintain fore-aft balance of the unicycle device; and a foot exercising device according to any preceding claim, wherein the foot exercising device is adapted to support a user of the unicycle device.
13. The self-balancing powered unicycle of claim 12, wherein the foot exercising device is movable between a stowed configuration, wherein a foot platform is substantially parallel with the plane of the single wheel, and an active configuration, wherein the foot platform is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the wheel so as to provide a support surface for a user.
14. The self-balancing powered unicycle of claim 12 or 13, when dependent on claim 7, wherein the self-balancing powered unicycle is adapted to use the generated electrical power to power, alter, change or modify an operation of the self-balancing powered unicycle device.
15. The self-balancing powered unicycle of claim 12, 13 or 14, wherein the foot platform is coupled to the wheel such that movement of the foot platform in at least one of the opposing directions drives rotation of the wheel.
16. A foot exercising device substantially as herein described above with reference to the accompanying figures.
17. A self-balancing powered unicycle substantially as herein described above with reference to the accompanying figures.