JP4949410B2 - Exercise treadmill for towing and tensioning - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to the general technical field of devices and machines for exercise, physical fitness and physical therapy, and more particularly designed to simulate traction or pulling motion when manipulated by a user. The present invention relates to a treadmill of reverse operation that operates mechanically, electrically and electronically.

  Equipment, machines for exercise, physical fitness and physical therapy are available for various structures and for various purposes and can be utilized for all major muscle groups. Most of such devices and machines, especially in the field of exercise, for aerobic or anaerobic training or for body areas such as legs, hips and lower limbs, chest and upper limbs, back, shoulders and arms It has become something to devote.

  Exercise treadmills are well known and are used for a variety of purposes including aerobic exercises such as walking and running and diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. For a known general purpose, a person on an exercise treadmill is typically a body movement with relatively steady and continuous physical activity levels, or varying treadmill speed and slope during a single session. The exercise program is executed with the level of the change.

Exercise treadmills typically have endless track surfaces that move around rollers or pulleys at each end of the treadmill. This track surface is generally made of a relatively thin rubber-like material that is driven by rotating one of the rollers or pulleys with a motor. The speed of the motor can be adjusted by the user or by a computer program to adjust the level of exercise while simulating running or walking. In this specification, the term “simulate” means that when the user uses the exercise treadmill, the user performs a certain exercise (without using the exercise treadmill). Is used as a term meaning to create a simulated situation (hereinafter the same in this specification).

  The belt is typically supported along the upper length between the rollers or pulleys according to one of several well-known designs for supporting the user's weight. The most common approach is a deck or support surface on the underside of the belt, such as a plastic or metal plate, to obtain the required support. In order to reduce the friction between the deck surface and the belt, a low friction sheet or laminate, such as Teflon (registered trademark), which is a fluorine-containing polymer of synthetic resin, is provided on the deck surface (or actually the deck Surface constituent material).

  Many of the current exercise treadmills, particularly intermediate to advanced exercise treadmills, have a function of changing the inclination of the treadmill. This tilting is accomplished in one of two ways: tilting the entire device or tilting only the walking and running track surface. In addition, this tilt can be achieved manually or by a power tilt system and can be accomplished by user command or as part of a computerized exercise programmed into the exercise treadmill. This slope takes advantage of the fact that the exercise effect or aerobic exercise efficacy can be altered by the slope, as the slope requires more exercise on the part of the user.

  To the best of the inventor's knowledge, the known exercise treadmill is configured to allow the user to walk forward and run, and its belt moves to simulate forward walking or running To do. That is, the belt moves from the front to the rear at the top of the deck. In addition, to the best of the inventor's knowledge, the known exercise treadmill tilt mechanism allows the user to walk or run with horizontal or uphill tilt. That is, the front part of the deck is at the same height as the rear part of the deck, or is lifted higher than the rear part of the deck to simulate an upward slope. Furthermore, to the best of the inventor's knowledge, known exercise treadmill handrails and manual controls are configured to complete the simulated forward motion.

  However, the inventor is completely unaware of a special exercise treadmill that is configured to allow the user to comfortably simulate a pulling or traction movement, ie a backward walking movement in a horizontal plane or uphill. Simulated pulling or traction exercises are beneficial for moving and developing different groups of muscles and for providing aerobic training. Thus, it can be seen that an exercise treadmill that simulates pulling or traction motion is beneficial, new and not obvious, and a significant improvement over the prior art. The present invention is directed to such an exercise treadmill.

The present invention is an exercise treadmill that simulates pulling or traction of an object on a horizontal plane, uphill or downhill. The treadmill includes a lower base portion that houses inner mechanical components, a swing arm on which a manual controller is mounted, and weight resistance means disposed in the lower base portion. The weight resistance means is operatively connected to the swing arm via a cable. In operation, when the user gets on the treadmill, grasps the manual control device and starts the belt, the user starts a movement that simulates backward walking or running with respect to the manual control device, and the user pulls the manual control device . Since the manual control device is attached to the swing arm, when this traction is transmitted to the swing arm, the cable is pulled, and therefore the weight resistance means is pulled. Alternatively, the treadmill can be set to automatically operate at a speed and tilt based on values input from a manual controller.

  The degree of weight resistance of the weight-resisting means depends on the backward walking or running in which this exercise training pulls or pulls the weight object comparable to the weight-resisting means setting to simulate weight pulling or towing. It can be adjusted by the user to be similar. In a preferred embodiment, the weight resistance means comprises an adjustable spring or hydraulically or pneumatically operated cylinder, a spring having a known spring constant, a hydraulically or pneumatically operated cylinder having a known resistance, a known elastic modulus. A flexible rod having a friction coefficient or a friction joint having a known coefficient of friction.

  Generally speaking, the inner mechanism parts of a treadmill are similar (or similar or identical) to known treadmill inner mechanism parts. The treadmill includes an endless belt wound around a roller or pulley that provides a platform on which a user can stand or walk or also run. A deck below a portion of the belt supports the belt and the user. The belt motor moves the belt in cooperation with the belt and / or roller or pulley, creating a moving walk that allows the user to walk or run for exercise training. The tilt motor cooperates with the platform, deck, roller or pulley, or rear leg to tilt the belt to simulate a slope.

  These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art when the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

  The present invention will now be described with respect to representative preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention showing its relationship with various major components of the apparatus. FIG. 2 is a side view of the present invention showing a user operating the present invention in a horizontal or pull or traction simulation. FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention showing a user operating the present invention in a tilt or pull or traction simulation. FIG. 4 is a side cross-sectional view of the present invention schematically showing an internal mechanical component of the present invention.

  4A-4F illustrate several embodiments of weight resistance means suitable for use with the present invention. FIG. 4A is a schematic side view of a spring-based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a spring having a known tension spring constant. FIG. 4B is a schematic side view of a compression spring based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a spring having a known compression spring constant. FIG. 4C shows a first hydraulic cylinder base weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a hydraulic cylinder with a known or adjustable resistance, in which the resistance is created by withdrawing the piston rod from the hydraulic cylinder. It is a typical side view. FIG. 4D shows a second hydraulic cylinder base weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a hydraulic cylinder with known or adjustable resistance, in which the resistance is created by pushing the piston rod into the hydraulic cylinder. It is a typical side view. FIG. 4E is a schematic plan view of a flexible rod-based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a rod having a known elastic modulus. FIG. 4F is a schematic plan view of a friction joint based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention, such as a combination of parts having a known coefficient of friction.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view of the base portion of the present invention showing the relative positions of the various components of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a plan view of an exemplary manual controller of the present invention showing various features that may be included in the manual controller. FIG. 7 is a side view of the representative manual control device of the present invention shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a side view of the present invention with an optional rear safety arm that helps prevent the user from inadvertently stepping backwards. FIG. 9 is a side view of the present invention with an optional rear landing platform on which a user exiting the rear of the present invention can ride. FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the present invention with an optional rearward descending platform showing other structures of the inner mechanism parts while showing the relative relationships of the various major parts of the device.

  FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the present invention showing the relationship between the various major components of this device. The treadmill 10 includes a lower base portion 12 that houses the inner mechanical components. Projecting upward from the base portion 12 is a swing arm 14 on which a manual control device 16 is attached. The swing arm 14 can be comprised of one, two or more swing arm portions. As shown in FIG. 1, the swing arm 14 has two swing arm portions, that is, an upper swing arm 14A and a lower swing arm 14B so as to align itself with the user U having different height and physique. It is composed of In addition, the use of a two-part oscillating arm 14 or a multi-part oscillating arm 14 results in a more biometrically acceptable traction movement and accidental and undesirable contact with the oscillating arm 14. (See FIGS. 2, 3, 8, and 9), the swing arm 14 is positioned as far away from the user U as possible. Furthermore, the use of the two-part swing arm 14 or the multi-part swing arm 14 is more comfortable for the user U. The first attachment means 28 rotatably attaches the upper swing arm 14A to the lower swing arm 14B.

  The manual control device 16 is attached to the end of the upper swing arm 14A distal from the lower swing arm 14B, when the user U faces up to operate the treadmill 10. Proximal to user U. The second attachment means 30 attaches the manual control device 16 to the upper swing arm 14A. However, if the second control means 30 is a static or fixed connection, the manual control device 16 is firmly connected to the upper swing arm 14A. If the connection is manual or movable, the manual control device 16 is movably connected to the upper swing arm 14A to form a two-dimensional swing or three-dimensional joystick structure. The combination of the swing arm 14 and the manual control device 16 provides support means to the user U during the entire exercise period or the first period until the user U assimilate himself or herself to the speed of the treadmill. The combination of the first attachment means 28 and the second attachment means 30 allows the desired movement of the swing arm 14 and manual control device 16 relative to the user U.

  Alternatively, two swing arms 14, one for each hand of the user U, can be provided. When two swing arms 14 are used, the control unit on the manual control device 16 can be provided on either one of the swing arms 14 or divided between the two swing arms 14. Furthermore, the use of two independent swing arms 14 can simulate the swing motion of the arm that normally occurs during walking or running, which is beneficial to the user U.

  Manual controller 16 simulates treadmill 10 speed and tilt adjustments, the time that user U operates treadmill 10, or the remaining exercise training time set, user U heart rate, tension or traction Electronic controls and information displays typically provided on exercise treadmills for purposes described below in connection with FIGS. 6 and 7, such as load, on and off buttons, emergency stop buttons, and other functions Has a part. A secure platform that allows the user U to easily access the treadmill 10 and allows the user U to step from the treadmill 10 onto a stationary platform, as will be described below in connection with FIG. To provide, the platform can be variously configured such as a step-off section 22, a front descending section 24, and a rear descending section 26. A weight resistance cable 18 is attached to the lower swing arm 14B and extends between the lower swing arm 14B and the weight resistance means 46 shown in detail in FIG.

  During normal operation, the user U steps on the belt 20 to grasp the manual control device 16 and places himself or herself in the approximate center on the belt 20 to face the manual control device 16. When the belt 20 begins to move, the user U begins a backward walking or running motion toward the back of the treadmill 10 with the moving belt 20, as will be described later, so the user U is operating the treadmill 10. The gap stays at substantially the same central position on the belt 20. Alternatively, the treadmill 10 can be set to automatically start at a speed based on the value input from the manual control device 16. The pace of walking or running exercise can be increased or decreased by the speed of the belt 20. The speed of the belt 20 can be controlled by adjusting the control unit on the manual control device 16 as well as adjusting the inclination and other functions and characteristics of the treadmill 10 as will be described later with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. it can. The belt 20 can alternatively be composed of two belts for each foot.

FIG. 2 is a side view of the present invention showing a user U operating the treadmill 10 while simulating horizontal or horizontal pulling or traction. In this state, the user U is simulating a horizontal pulling or traction motion, pulling the manual control device 16 while walking or running backwards, and thus pulling the weight resistance means 46. FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention showing a user U operating the treadmill 10 while simulating tilted pulling or traction. In this state, the user U is simulating the dragging or pulling motion uphill inclined, pull the hand controller 16 while walking or running uphill backwards, thus Do tension hit the weight resistance means 46 It is moving uphill. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 4, the swing arm 14 via the manual control device 16, the first attachment means 28, and the second attachment means 30 has a function of aligning itself and the appropriateness of the treadmill 10. Appropriate movement of the swing arm 14 and the manual control device 16 relative to the user U for comfortable operation is possible.

  The use of one or more swing points, such as the first mounting means 28 and the second mounting means 30, allows the various parts of the swing arm 14 to swing relative to each other and to the user U, It is connected to the feature of the self-alignment function. Further, since the swing arm 14 is swingably attached to the base portion 12, there is still another great movement for positioning the swing arm 14 with respect to the user U. For example, when the user U grips the manual control device 16, the user U moves upward and downward and toward or away from the user U in order to place the manual control device 16 at a position most comfortable to the user U. Thus, the manual control device 16 can be moved. Furthermore, since the swing point can swing freely, the manual control device 16 effectively aligns itself to an appropriate position with respect to the user U just by grasping the user U. The addition of an additional swing point, such as making the swing arm 14 from a plurality of parts, improves the features of this self-aligning function.

  As can be seen from FIG. 3, the base 12 can be composed of a separate support platform 32 and a belt platform 34. In such a construction, the primary support for the treadmill 10, the belt motor 40 (FIG. 4), the tilt motor 42 (FIG. 4), and the weight resistance means 46 (FIG. 4) are preferably provided on the support platform 32. While arranged on the inside, the belt 20 and the belt moving means (disclosed in connection with FIG. 4) are preferably arranged in the belt platform 34. Alternatively, each component described above is placed either on the support platform 32 or the belt platform 34 by those skilled in the art. In such a construction, the tilt of the belt 20 is achieved in a manner known in the art by a tilt motor 42 that lifts the belt platform 34 relative to the support platform 32.

  Alternatively, the base portion 12 can be configured from a single platform. In such a structure, all the above-described components, ie, the main support for the treadmill 10, the belt motor 40 (FIG. 4), the tilt motor 42 (FIG. 4) and the weight resistance means 46 (FIG. 4) are provided. Arranged inside the base portion 12. In such a construction, the inclination of the belt 20 is achieved in a manner known in the art by means of an inclination motor 42 which lifts the rear end of the base part 12 relative to the front end of the base part 12.

  FIG. 4 is a side sectional view of the present invention schematically showing the inner mechanism parts of the treadmill 10. Generally speaking, the inner mechanical parts of this treadmill 10 are similar (or can be similar or identical) to the inner mechanical parts of known treadmills, so that the inner mechanical parts Will be described later in a general sense. The treadmill 10 includes an endless belt 20 that is wound around a roller or pulley 36. The roller or pulley 36 is rotatably fixed inside the base portion 12 so that the belt 20 can continuously move around the roller or pulley 36. Disposed inside the endless loop of the belt 20 between the rollers or pulleys 36 is a deck 38 for supporting the upper portion 20a of the belt 20. Specifically, when the user U gets on the belt 20, the belt 20 is pressed against the deck 38 to support the user U. The belt motor 40 moves the belt 20 in cooperation with the belt 20 or the roller or pulley 36. The tilt motor 42 tilts the belt 20 in cooperation with the belt platform 34, the deck 38, the roller or pulley 36, or the rear leg 44. The weight resistance means 46 cooperates with the swing arm 14 via the cable 18. The cable 18 can be any structure that allows the transmission of force between the swing arm 14 and the weight resistance means 46, such as rope, chain, belt, monofilament, braided wire and other suitable equivalents. Not limited to standard cables.

  A representative drive assembly for belt 20 is schematically illustrated in FIG. The front roller or pulley 36 </ b> A is rotatably attached to the inside of the base portion 12 on the shaft 48. The rear roller or pulley 36 </ b> B is rotatably attached to the inside of the base portion 12 on the shaft 50. The shafts 48 and 50 are typically fixed to the frame portion of the base portion. The front roller or pulley 36A and the rear roller or pulley 36B are arranged substantially parallel to each other. The belt 20 is wound around the roller or pulley 36 so as to continuously move around the roller or pulley 36 to form an upper traveling portion 20a and a lower traveling portion 20b. When the user U rides on the belt 20 while the treadmill 10 is operating normally, the weight of the user U causes the belt 20 to bend downward. The belt 20 is supported between a roller or pulley 36 by a deck 38 with a portion of its length and a substantial portion of the upper running portion 20a. In order to reduce friction between the lower surface of the upper running portion 20a and the upper surface of the deck 38, a low friction material can be added to the upper surface of the deck 38, the lower surface of the belt 20, or both. Alternatively, the deck 38 can be made from a low friction material. The deck 38 is preferably rigidly secured to the base 12 or belt platform 34. This structure is known in the treadmill art.

  In the example configuration shown in FIG. 4, the rear roller or pulley 36B is rotationally driven by a belt motor 40, such as a fan belt 54 or a direct drive (not shown), during normal operation of the treadmill 10. Is done. The belt motor 40 is attached to the inside of the base portion 12. The rear roller or pulley 36 </ b> A is rotationally driven by the belt motor 40. As will be described in detail later, the rotational speed of the rear roller or pulley 36 </ b> A can be controlled by a microprocessor (not shown) via the belt motor 40. The speed can be adjusted from a controller on the manual control device 16. Thus, in this configuration, the speed of the belt 20 can be changed during exercise training. This structure is known in the treadmill art.

  In the example embodiment shown in FIG. 4, a tilting mechanism for tilting the deck 38 is provided. Specifically, FIG. 4 illustrates three different distinct tilt mechanisms. Preferably only one tilting mechanism is used, but the three are shown as alternatives to each other. If desired, two or more tilting mechanisms can be used on the same machine, either independently of each other or in conjunction with each other. The three different lift mechanisms are a leg lift having a tilt motor 42 and a rear leg 44 and a lift of two different belt platforms 34 having a tilt motor 42 and means for lifting the belt platform 34. Each of these three lift mechanisms is known in the treadmill art.

  In the leg lift, the tilt motor 42 is connected to the rear leg 44. The operation of the tilt motor 42 causes the entire base portion 12 to rise with respect to the rear leg 44. This causes a swing around the front leg 52 of the treadmill 10, and thus the rear part of the treadmill 10 is lifted with respect to the front leg 52, causing an overall inclination of the base portion 12. In the lift of the first belt platform 34, the belt motor 40 is supported inside the belt platform 34. The tilt motor 42 is connected to the belt platform 34 by a support portion 56. The operation of the tilt motor 42 causes the belt platform 34 to rise, including the belt motor 40 and associated drive machine. In the lift of the second belt platform 34, the belt motor 40 is not supported inside the belt platform 34 but supported inside the support platform 32. The tilt motor 42 is connected to the belt platform 34 or the shaft 48 by a support portion 58. The operation of the tilt motor 42 causes the belt platform 34 to rise, but the belt motor 40 and associated drive machine remain below the support platform 32. The degree of inclination selected by the user U can be adjusted from the control unit on the manual control device 16. In this configuration, it is possible to change the inclination of the belt 20 during exercise training.

  FIG. 4 also schematically shows an embodiment of the weight resistance means 46 of the treadmill 10. The weight resistance means 46 is operatively connected to the swing arm 14 via the cable 18. The cable 18 can be routed around one or more pulleys 60 to prevent the cable 18 from becoming entangled with the inner mechanical components of the treadmill 10. Specifically, the cable 18 is attached to the lower swing arm 14B, advances around the pulley 60 as necessary, and is attached to the weight resistance means 46. In operation, when the user U grasps the manual control device 16 and the belt 20 begins to move, the user U begins to walk or run backward as simulated against the manual control device 16 and the user U manually The control device 16 is pulled. Since the manual control device 16 is attached to the swing arm 14, the transmission of this pulling to the swing arm 14 pulls the cable 18 and pulls the weight resistance means 46.

  The degree of weight resistance can be controlled by the user U. In the weakest setting, the user U can pull the swing arm 14 completely to a stopper (not shown) that prevents the swing arm 14 from moving further. In such a setting, user U simulates pulling or traction with little or no load, this exercise training is similar to backward walking or running, and swing arm 14 provides stability to user U. . In other settings, the weight resistance means 46 can be set sufficiently high to prevent the user U from pulling the swing arm 14 fully to a stopper (not shown). In such a setting, the user U simulates the pulling or towing of the load, and the exercise training is to walk or run backward while pulling or pulling an object with a weight comparable to the setting of the weight resistance means 46. Similar to. The higher the setting of the weight resistance means 46, the stronger the object to be simulated is pulled. The degree of weight resistance selected by the user U can be adjusted from the control unit on the manual control device 16. In this configuration, it is possible to change the weight resistance that is pulled or pulled during exercise training.

  In a preferred embodiment, the weight resistance means 46 is an adjustable spring or hydraulic cylinder, a spring having a known spring constant or a hydraulic or pneumatically actuated cylinder having a known resistance, a flexible rod having a known elastic modulus. Or it can be set as the friction coupling which has a well-known friction coefficient. Each of these elements is known in the prior art. As will be described below, the weight resistance means 46 can preferably take many different forms, known or developed in the future, so long as it provides a weight resistance that simulates tension or traction.

  4A and 4B show an adjustable spring with a known spring constant. FIG. 4A illustrates the use of tension spring 70. Although the adjustment mechanism 72 is shown, a spring having a known spring constant can be used without the adjustment mechanism 72. A first end 70 </ b> A of the spring 70 is attached to the base portion 12, and a second end 70 </ b> B of the spring 70 is attached to the cable 18. In the case of tension, pulling the cable 18 in the direction of arrow P stretches the spring 70 and places it under tension. To provide a basis for determining the simulated resistance weight pulled or pulled by the user U, a spring of known spring constant can be used. An adjustment mechanism 72 inserted in an advantageous position between the winding portions of the spring 70 can also be used to adjust the simulated resistance weight.

  FIG. 4B shows the compression spring 70. An adjustment mechanism 72 (not shown in FIG. 4B) can be used, but a spring of known or unknown spring constant can be used with this adjustment mechanism 72. A first end portion 70 </ b> A of the spring 70 is attached to the base portion 12 via the attachment arm 74, and a second end portion 70 </ b> B of the spring 70 is attached to the cable 18. In the case of compression, traction on cable 18 in the direction of arrow P compresses spring 70 and places it in a compressed state. A spring of known spring constant can be used to provide a basis for determining the resistance weight that is simulated by being pulled or pulled by the user U. An adjustment mechanism 72 inserted in an advantageous position between the winding portions of the spring 70 can also be used to adjust the simulated resistance weight.

  4C and 4D show a hydraulic or pneumatically operated cylinder with a known resistance. Although hydraulic and pneumatic cylinders operate on the same general principles, FIGS. 4C and 4D will be described with reference to hydraulic cylinders, but the same discussion applies to pneumatic cylinders. FIG. 4C shows a hydraulic cylinder 76 with a traction structure. A hydraulic cylinder 76 is attached to the base portion 12, and a piston rod 78 is attached to the cable 18. Pulling the cable 18 in the direction of arrow P pulls the piston rod 78 out of the hydraulic cylinder 76, and the fluid in the hydraulic cylinder 76 creates resistance. A known or adjustable resistance in which the resistance is created by withdrawal of the piston rod 78 from the hydraulic cylinder 76 to provide a basis for determining the simulated resistance weight pulled or pulled by the user U It is possible to use a hydraulic cylinder having

  FIG. 4D shows a hydraulic cylinder 76 having a pushing structure. A hydraulic cylinder 76 is attached to the base portion 12 via the attachment arm 74, and a piston rod 78 is attached to the cable 18 via the attachment arm 74. Pulling the cable 18 in the direction of arrow P pushes the piston rod 78 into the hydraulic cylinder 76, and the fluid in the hydraulic cylinder 76 creates resistance. A known or adjustable resistance is created by pushing the piston rod 78 into the hydraulic cylinder 76 to provide a basis for determining the simulated resistance weight pulled or pulled by the user U A hydraulic cylinder with resistance can be used.

  FIG. 4E illustrates the use of a flexible rod 80. At least one end of the rod 80 is attached to the base portion 12, and an intermediate portion or the other end of the rod 80 is attached to the cable 18. Pulling on the cable 18 in the direction of arrow P flexes the bar 80, and the combination of compressive and tensile forces on the bar 80 creates a tensile force. A known elastic modulus flexible rod can be used to provide a basis for determining the resistance weight that is simulated by being pulled or pulled by the user U.

  FIG. 4F shows the friction members 82 and 84 of the traction structure. A first friction member 82 is attached to the base portion 12, and a second friction member 84 is attached to the cable 18. Pulling the cable 18 in the direction of the arrow P pulls the second friction member 84 against the first friction member 82 and creates a frictional resistance. Friction resistance is created by pulling the second friction member 84 relative to the first friction member 82 to provide a basis for determining the resistance weight that is simulated by being pulled or pulled by the user U. A friction member having a known or adjustable coefficient of friction can be used.

  Other weight resistance means 46 include electromagnetic braking, eddy current mechanisms, weight stacks, resistance bands, spring powered reels, air pressure, air resistance, and webbed. Each of these other weight resistance means 46 is known and can be configured to be suitable for the present invention without undue experimentation. In addition, other weight resistance means are suitable for use in the present invention, including known and future developed weight resistance means.

  A comparison of the position of the swing arm 14 in FIGS. 1 and 4 shows how the swing arm 14 can move. The oscillating arm 14 is shown in a stationary position in FIG. 4, an operating position in FIG. 1, and an operating position in FIG. The swing arm 14 can swing between a stationary position and a fully extended position, but the position of the swing arm 14 in operation is determined according to the user U. A stopper (not shown) prevents the swing arm 14 from moving past a rest position in one direction of motion and moving past a fully extended position in the opposite direction of motion. Further, a comparison of the position of the belt 20 in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4 and 2 shows how the belt 20 can move. The horizontal position of the belt 20 is shown in FIGS. 1, 3 and 4, the inclined position is shown in FIG. 2, and the inclined position is shown in phantom lines in FIG. The belt 20 (specifically, the belt platform 34 or the base portion 12) can be inclined between a horizontal position and a completely inclined position, and the inclination is determined according to the user U.

  FIG. 5 is a plan view of the base portion of the present invention showing the relative positions of the various components of the treadmill 10. The front stepping off portion 24 extends in the lateral direction at least at a part of the front side of the base portion 12 on both sides of the swing arm 14. The side stepping off part 22 extends from the front side of the treadmill 10 to the rear side over at least a part of the entire length of the base part 12. The rear stepping portion 26 is not shown in the present embodiment. There is a groove 86 where the cable 18 enters the base portion 12. There is a hole 88 where the swing arm 14 enters the base 12. The swing arm 14 is swingably attached to the inside of the base portion 12 via a known type connection (not shown).

  FIG. 6 is a plan view of an exemplary manual control device 16 of the present invention showing various features that may be included in the manual control device 16. FIG. 7 is a side view of the representative manual control device 16 of the present invention shown in FIG. The manual control device 16 has a time display unit 90 that shows an elapsed time of exercise training or a remaining time of exercise exercise in a countdown, and a heart rate monitor, and the treadmill 10 has a function of monitoring the heart rate. A heart rate display unit 92 that indicates the heart rate of the user U, a tilt display unit 94 that displays the tilt of the belt 20 in degrees or other units, and a load display unit 96 that represents the load or weight being pulled or pulled. Many displays can be provided, including a speed display 98 that shows how fast the user is moving. Such displays are well known in the treadmill art.

  Additional displays include a mile display that displays the simulated distance that the user U moved during the exercise training, and the user U's current calorie consumption or consumed by the user U during the exercise training A calorie display that displays total calories is included. Further, the manual control device 16 includes an input key for allowing the user U to exchange information with the microprocessor operating the treadmill 10 in order to operate the treadmill 10 as well as setting exercise training parameters. A pad can be provided. The control device may also include an on / off button, an emergency stop button 100, an increase button 102 for increasing a parameter, a decrease button 104 for decreasing a parameter, and other functional input devices. All of these are known in the treadmill art. In addition, the handgrip 106 may also have input means (not shown) for reading the user U's heart rate as known in the art.

  The treadmill 10 uses a known microprocessor (not shown) to control and operate the various functions of the present invention. For example, the speed of the belt motor 40, and hence the speed of the belt 20, is controlled by the microprocessor. Further, the inclination of the belt 20 is also controlled by the microprocessor. In addition, various displays and other elements 90, 92, 94, 96, 98, 100, 102, 104 (others, if any) of the manual controller 16 are connected to the microprocessor. Briefly, signals are exchanged between the microprocessor and the display 90, 92, 94, 96, 98 (others if any) of the manual control device 16 and the switches 100, 102, 104. (Others, if any) and specific components such as belt motor 40, tilt motor 42, and weight resistance means 46 are operatively associated. The use of this type of microprocessor is also known in the treadmill art.

  FIG. 8 is a side view of the present invention with an optional rear safety arm 108 that helps prevent user U from inadvertently protruding from the rear of the treadmill 10. The rear safety arm 108 can have a pad 110 attached to a column 112 provided on the base portion 12. Optionally, a second controller (not shown) can be disposed on the rear safety arm 108 or pad 110. Such a second control device can be used to operate the treadmill 10 as a treadmill walking forward in a conventional manner. According to such a configuration, the user U stands on the belt 20 facing substantially rearward toward the rear safety arm 108 while allowing the movement of the belt 20 to walk forward. Control of the treadmill 10 is achieved via the second controller.

  FIG. 9 is a side view of the present invention having an optional rear descending portion 26 that the user U can step on when protruding from the rear of the treadmill 10. The optional side descending portion 22 is the most preferred descending portion, but the optional front descending portion 24 is also preferred due to the swinging arm 14 swinging forward in the rest position. The rear landing 26 is optional but provides an additional safety measure. FIG. 9 also shows the treadmill 10 using the belt platform 34 and the support base 32 in a tilted operating condition.

  FIG. 10 is a side cross-sectional view of the present invention with an optional back down 26 that illustrates another configuration of the inner mechanism components while illustrating the relationship between the various major components of the device. FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 4 in this regard, but the shape of the rear side of the base portion 12 has been changed to accommodate the rear descending portion 26.

  The present invention can also include additional optional features. For example, the present invention prevents the user U from increasing the speed of movement of the belt 20 due to the weight resistance of the weight resistance means 46 and is displayed on the speed display unit 98 of the manual control device 16. A safety mechanism can be provided to prevent the movement of the belt 20 from speeding up to a higher speed. In other words, the treadmill 10 prevents the belt 20 from disappearing from below the user U when the user U moves too fast relative to the belt 20 or the belt 20 moves too fast relative to the user U. These means can be further provided. This also prevents the user's U leg force from undesirably increasing the speed of the belt 20. Among other known mechanisms, a clutch attached to the belt 20 or axle 48,50 can be used. As another embodiment, the descenders 22, 24, 26 are optionally and preferably of considerable width to provide a wider platform for the user U to step into or step out of the treadmill 10. be able to. Side rails and kill switches can also be used. A heart rate monitor can be used, or the microprocessor can be configured to monitor the heart rate, adjust the speed of the belt 20 and tilt the weight resistance level to maintain the desired heart rate. .

  In complete contrast to known treadmills, the present invention achieves exercise training that differs from aerobic walking or running training. Initially, the belt 20 moves in the opposite direction to the belt on a known treadmill, creating a basis for pulling or traction movement. Further, using the weight resistance means 46 in combination with a general walking or running exercise and particularly a backward walking or running exercise results in more complex exercise training. The combination of backward walking or running and a simulation that pulls or pulls the load provides useful aerobic or also anaerobic training, as well as various muscles and muscle groups, specifically legs, buttocks It has been found that the muscles of the arms, chest and back can be strengthened.

  Although the invention has been described in connection with the preferred embodiments, it is not intended to limit the spirit or scope of the invention to the particular forms described, but is the true spirit of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It is also intended to cover such variations, modifications and equivalents that fall within the scope and range.

The perspective view of this invention. FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention operating horizontally. FIG. 3 is a side view of the present invention operating at an angle. Side surface sectional drawing of this invention which shows an internal mechanism component. The typical side view of the weight resistance means of the tension spring base suitable for this invention. The typical side view of the weight resistance means of the compression spring base suitable for this invention. 1 is a schematic side view of a first hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention. FIG. FIG. 3 is a schematic side view of a second hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic plan view of a flexible rod-based weight resistance means suitable for the present invention. The typical top view of the weight resistance means of the friction joint base suitable for this invention. The top view of the base part of this invention. The top view of the typical manual control apparatus of this invention. The side view of the typical manual control apparatus of this invention shown in FIG. FIG. 6 is a side view of the present invention with an optional rear safety arm. FIG. 4 is a side view of the present invention with an optional back platform. FIG. 6 is a side cross-sectional view of the present invention with an optional back-fall platform showing another structure of the inner mechanism component.

Claims (24)

Wound around a roller or pulley with the rollers or movable surface of the endless one of said pulleys is circulated to be rotated to form the upper run and a lower run of said upper run is, An exercise treadmill that provides an exercise surface for a user to walk or run on while exercising,
a) weight resistance means is provided for simulating the weight resistance experienced by the user when pulling or pulling the load, and the endless movable surface allows the user to walk or run backwards; Move in a direction to create a simulated situation,
b) A swing arm operatively connected to the weight resistance means is provided, and when the user swings the swing arm, the weight resistance means is activated, and the user pulls or pulls the load. The situation you are going to be created is simulated,
c) a manual control device attached to the swing arm is provided for operating and controlling the exercise treadmill and the weight resistance means ;
By operating the treadmill, a combination of the operation of the weight resistance means that simulates the load received by the user by the pulling or pulling of the load, and the backward walking or running that brings about the pulling or pulling action of the load A treadmill for exercise characterized in that a situation in which a user is pulling or pulling a load is simulated .   2. An exercise treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the weight resistance means can be set to a selected value of a variable weight resistance level to produce weight resistance only in the pulling direction.   The exercise treadmill according to claim 2, wherein the weight resistance means is selected from the group consisting of a spring, a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, a flexible rod, a friction member, and a stack of weights. . The swing arm exercise preparative according to claim 3, characterized in that it extends substantially upward from the mounted on the lower base part said lower base portion on the front side of the position of the movable surface of the endless Red mill.   The exercise treadmill according to claim 4, wherein the swing arm is swingably attached to the lower base portion. The swing arm is pivotable between a first rest position and a second fully extended position, and any position between the first rest position and the second fully extended position The exercise treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the exercise treadmill can be maintained at a high temperature.   The treadmill for exercise according to claim 6, wherein the weight resistance is provided by the weight resistance means only in a direction in which the swing arm is pulled at any position of the swing arm. The swing arm has at least one swing arm portion and at least one swing center, and the at least one swing arm portion is configured to align itself with the manual control device. And
When the user grips the manual control device and moves it in one direction with respect to the user, the at least one swing arm portion and the manual control device swing, and the manual control device is in an appropriate position with respect to the user. The exercise treadmill according to claim 1, wherein the exercise treadmill is configured to align itself. a) an endless movable surface for walking or running that is movable in a direction that creates a simulated situation where the user is walking or running backwards;
b) weight resistance means for simulating the weight resistance experienced by the user when pulling or pulling the load, the weight resistance means providing weight resistance only in the pulling direction;
c) a swinging arm operatively connected to said weight resistance means, the swing arm operates said weight resistance means that the user swings, the user performs a dragging or pulling of the load A swing arm that provides weight resistance so that the situation is simulated ,
d) a manual control device attached to the swing arm for operating and controlling the exercise treadmill and weight resistance means;
By operating the treadmill, a combination of the operation of the weight resistance means that simulates the load received by the user by the pulling or pulling of the load, and the backward walking or running that brings about the pulling or pulling action of the load A treadmill for exercise characterized in that a situation in which a user is pulling or pulling a load is simulated .   10. The exercise treadmill of claim 9, wherein the weight resistance means is selected from the group consisting of a spring, a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, a flexible rod, a friction member, and a stack of weights. .   10. The exercise treadmill according to claim 9, wherein the weight resistance means can be set to a selected weight resistance level.   12. The exercise treadmill of claim 11, wherein the weight resistance means can be set to a selected value of a weight resistance level that can be varied to provide weight resistance. The swing arm has at least two swing arm portions;
The swing arm is swung is freely connected to the lower base in front of the position of the movable surface of the endless,
The at least two swing arm parts are swingably attached to each other via a first mounting means,
The exercise treadmill according to claim 9, wherein one of the at least two swing arm portions is connected to a manual control device via a second attachment means. And a tilting mechanism that allows tilting of a portion of the endless movable surface on which the user rides so that a situation in which the user is walking or running on a slope or downhill is simulated. The treadmill for exercise according to claim 13. The swing arm is pivotable between a first rest position and a second fully extended position, and any position between the first rest position and the second fully extended position The exercise treadmill according to claim 13, wherein the exercise treadmill can be maintained at a high temperature. Is part of Luke or lower base portion attached to the lower base part, before using the treadmill during use, or at least one off the platform brings a surface capable of stepping after using more The exercise treadmill according to claim 9, wherein the exercise treadmill is provided.   A rear safety arm attached to the lower base portion and extending substantially upward therefrom at a rear position of the endless movable surface opposite to the swing arm of the endless movable surface. Item 12. A treadmill for exercise according to item 9. A second control device disposed on the rear safety arm;
The second controller, exercise treadmill of claim 17, wherein the Turkey used to operate the exercise treadmill in a more normal way as a treadmill for walking forwardly.   16. The exercise treadmill according to claim 15, wherein the weight resistance is provided by the weight resistance means at every position of the swing arm. The swing arm has at least one swing arm portion and at least one swing center, and the at least one swing arm portion is configured to align itself with the manual control device. And
When the user grips the manual control device and moves it in one direction with respect to the user, the at least one swing arm portion and the manual control device swing, and the manual control device is in an appropriate position with respect to the user. The exercise treadmill according to claim 9, wherein the exercise treadmill is configured to align itself. An exercise method that simulates a situation where a user is pulling or pulling a load,
step boarding on the annular endless belt, wherein the upper run forms a movable surface which constitutes the movement surface with a) the roller or wound around the pulleys to have a upper run and a lower run of When,
b) grasping a manual control device operatively connected to the weight resistance means via a swing arm, and adjusting the weight resistance means to a selected weight resistance level via the manual control device; Oscillating the swing arm by pulling the device to actuate the weight resistance means , providing a weight resistance only in the pulling direction, which simulates the situation of pulling or pulling the load; and
c) walking or running backward while pulling the manual control device on the upper running section;
With
The backward walking or running is cause actuation of the weight resistance means, performed by the combination of the walking or running in the backward resulting in operating a dragging or pulling operation of the weight resistance means for generating the load, the tensile load or pulling A method of exercising, characterized by creating a simulated situation .   The exercise method of claim 21, further comprising adjusting a speed of the endless annular belt.   The exercise method of claim 21, further comprising adjusting a slope of the endless annular belt. The swing arm has at least one swing arm portion and at least one swing center, and the at least one swing arm portion is configured to align itself with the manual control device. And
Holding the manual control device and moving the manual control device in one direction relative to the user causes the at least one swing arm portion and the manual control device to swing, so that the manual control device is suitable for the user. The exercise method according to claim 21, wherein the position is adjusted by itself so as to be in a correct position.

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