CA2510594A1 - Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle - Google Patents
Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle Download PDFInfo
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- CA2510594A1 CA2510594A1 CA002510594A CA2510594A CA2510594A1 CA 2510594 A1 CA2510594 A1 CA 2510594A1 CA 002510594 A CA002510594 A CA 002510594A CA 2510594 A CA2510594 A CA 2510594A CA 2510594 A1 CA2510594 A1 CA 2510594A1
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- 238000005461 lubrication Methods 0.000 claims 2
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- 125000006850 spacer group Chemical group 0.000 description 11
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- 239000010951 brass Substances 0.000 description 5
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Abstract
An adjustable exercise bicycle comprising a frame including a rotatably mounted flywheel, a friction member engageable in friction contact with the flywheel, and a tensioning mechanism acting on the friction member for applying variable restraining forces to the flywheel, the tensioning mechanism including a biasing member positioned to permit the tensioning mechanism to be displaced away from the flywheel to release force on the friction member.
Description
I. TECIitVICAL FIELD
The technical field to which this patent relates involves the manufacture and use of exercise equipment. In particular, an exercise bicycle used in fitness centers, gymnasiums, health clubs, school and university fitness and training rooms, and other rooms dedicated to physical fitness is presented. The adjustable exercise bicycle may be utilized by persons of all ages desiring. to increase their physical fitness.
II. BACKGROUND ART
Genezally the use of exercise equipment, including stationary bicycles, has become more and more popular in modern society. Due to the presence of many modern conveniences and fast food restaurants, physical conditioning has taken on a greater importance in every day human life. A number of different types of exercise and weight loss devices have been commercialized, including weight training rooms, weight lifting devices, electronic treadmill devices and stationary bicycles. The stationary bicycles currently in use basically utilize the standard bicycle used on roads and add either platforms or other framework such that the bicycle does not move. Various types of these stationary bicycles have been designed, including bicycles that entirely eliminate the back wheel. The bicycles usually have a seat and handlebars to simulate a regular bicycle but the pedals are connected to a front wheel that does not touch the floor.
Since obesity in North America and the world is growing at a tremendous rate, innovations in the field of exercise equipment, particularly exercise bicycles, is quite desirable.
With the advent of computers and television, children are becoming. somewhat.
Iazx and undisciplined. Children, in particular, need specialized equipment in order to keep up their exercise program.
Although many stationary exercise bicycles have been designed for adults, none have, as yet, been designed especially to be adapted for use by both adults and children. A child's physical stature, as well as his somewhat inattentiveness to detail, necessitates a few important changes in the basic design of a stationary exercise bicycle. It is an object of this invention to provide an exercise bicycle designed to be especially adapted for children or young adults.
One of the main advantages of the exercise bicycle disclosed herein is that a youngster can ride in the comfort of his home, thus exercising while still being entertained by his favorite music or television show. Further, while youth facilities are in high demand today, these gym facilities oftentimes only have equipment for adults. By creating an exercise bicycle adaptable for children, youngsters can make use of the gym facilities along with their adult parents or guardian, providing all participants a quality time together while increasing the fitness of adult and child alike. Studies with local universities and youth centers have proven that by working out in a group, the youth discipline and attentiveness is inczeased.
One of the problems encountered in many stationary exercise bicycles is that the smaller physique of children often prohibits them from using the exercise bicycle. For example, the positioning of the seat is very important for the comfort of the user. It is an object of this invention to provide a seat which may be specially adjusted so as to position a child to fit perfectly onto the stationary bicycle while still keeping in mind his growth patterns.
In addition to the height adjustment of the seat, it is- also important to be able to adjust the height of the handlebars on the stationary bicycles. These adjustments have previously been made by the use of pop pins. However, pop pins are often not safe, particularly when used by inattentive youngsters. Further, pop pins are not precise with respect to the spinal and leg adjustments, since pap pins utilize a series of incremental holes so that the adjustments must be made in incremental steps specified by the manufacturer. It is a further object of this invention to provide vertical and horizontal adjustments for the seat and height adjustments for the handle posts of a stationary bicycle such that they can be set at an infinite number of positions within the specified overall range. It is a still further object of this invention to provide for adjustments for the seat and handle posts of a stationary bicycle by means of a quickly releasable handle rather than a pop pin.
In the manufacture of exercise bicycles, it has been found that the tension placed on the exercise wheel could create a slight but irritating squeaking noise. Further, it is highly desirable to have the exercise wheel made such that the operator can coast, with the pedals remaining stationary even though the wheel is still moving forward. Further, for children's exercise bicycles in particular, it is also highly desirable that an emergency brake system or total release system be in place. The addition of these features greatly enhances the performance and safety of an exercise bicycle. The objects and other enhancements of this invention will become apparent upon reading the below-described Specification.
The technical field to which this patent relates involves the manufacture and use of exercise equipment. In particular, an exercise bicycle used in fitness centers, gymnasiums, health clubs, school and university fitness and training rooms, and other rooms dedicated to physical fitness is presented. The adjustable exercise bicycle may be utilized by persons of all ages desiring. to increase their physical fitness.
II. BACKGROUND ART
Genezally the use of exercise equipment, including stationary bicycles, has become more and more popular in modern society. Due to the presence of many modern conveniences and fast food restaurants, physical conditioning has taken on a greater importance in every day human life. A number of different types of exercise and weight loss devices have been commercialized, including weight training rooms, weight lifting devices, electronic treadmill devices and stationary bicycles. The stationary bicycles currently in use basically utilize the standard bicycle used on roads and add either platforms or other framework such that the bicycle does not move. Various types of these stationary bicycles have been designed, including bicycles that entirely eliminate the back wheel. The bicycles usually have a seat and handlebars to simulate a regular bicycle but the pedals are connected to a front wheel that does not touch the floor.
Since obesity in North America and the world is growing at a tremendous rate, innovations in the field of exercise equipment, particularly exercise bicycles, is quite desirable.
With the advent of computers and television, children are becoming. somewhat.
Iazx and undisciplined. Children, in particular, need specialized equipment in order to keep up their exercise program.
Although many stationary exercise bicycles have been designed for adults, none have, as yet, been designed especially to be adapted for use by both adults and children. A child's physical stature, as well as his somewhat inattentiveness to detail, necessitates a few important changes in the basic design of a stationary exercise bicycle. It is an object of this invention to provide an exercise bicycle designed to be especially adapted for children or young adults.
One of the main advantages of the exercise bicycle disclosed herein is that a youngster can ride in the comfort of his home, thus exercising while still being entertained by his favorite music or television show. Further, while youth facilities are in high demand today, these gym facilities oftentimes only have equipment for adults. By creating an exercise bicycle adaptable for children, youngsters can make use of the gym facilities along with their adult parents or guardian, providing all participants a quality time together while increasing the fitness of adult and child alike. Studies with local universities and youth centers have proven that by working out in a group, the youth discipline and attentiveness is inczeased.
One of the problems encountered in many stationary exercise bicycles is that the smaller physique of children often prohibits them from using the exercise bicycle. For example, the positioning of the seat is very important for the comfort of the user. It is an object of this invention to provide a seat which may be specially adjusted so as to position a child to fit perfectly onto the stationary bicycle while still keeping in mind his growth patterns.
In addition to the height adjustment of the seat, it is- also important to be able to adjust the height of the handlebars on the stationary bicycles. These adjustments have previously been made by the use of pop pins. However, pop pins are often not safe, particularly when used by inattentive youngsters. Further, pop pins are not precise with respect to the spinal and leg adjustments, since pap pins utilize a series of incremental holes so that the adjustments must be made in incremental steps specified by the manufacturer. It is a further object of this invention to provide vertical and horizontal adjustments for the seat and height adjustments for the handle posts of a stationary bicycle such that they can be set at an infinite number of positions within the specified overall range. It is a still further object of this invention to provide for adjustments for the seat and handle posts of a stationary bicycle by means of a quickly releasable handle rather than a pop pin.
In the manufacture of exercise bicycles, it has been found that the tension placed on the exercise wheel could create a slight but irritating squeaking noise. Further, it is highly desirable to have the exercise wheel made such that the operator can coast, with the pedals remaining stationary even though the wheel is still moving forward. Further, for children's exercise bicycles in particular, it is also highly desirable that an emergency brake system or total release system be in place. The addition of these features greatly enhances the performance and safety of an exercise bicycle. The objects and other enhancements of this invention will become apparent upon reading the below-described Specification.
2 III. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
A stationary exercise bicycle is presented having an adjustable seat and handlebars attached to a bottom frame. The frame also supports standard pedals and stems which are attached to a sprocket and subsequently to the front exercise wheel. The vertical height and horizontal position of the seat is infinitely adjustable within a broad range by means of a quick release handle. The height of the handlebars may be similarly adjusted by means of a quick attach handle. The tension on the front exercise wheel is adjustable and squeaking is kept to a minimum by the introduction of lubricating oil through a number of specially designed lubricating ports. The tensioning handle also has an emergency stop brake as well as a means for momentarily disengaging all friction on the wheel to facilitate a dismount. The working exercise wheel also has a directional clutch bearing such that the action of a modern bicycle is simulated. When the child using the exercise bicycle quits pedaling, the directional clutch allows the working wheel to continue in the clockwise direction while providing no direct force to the pedals, which may then remain stationary. A special foot pedal bracket also keeps the child's foot securely in contact with the pedal as desired.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a force transmitting member at an outer end thereof, said force transmitting member extending between said actuating member and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said force transmitting member away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said biasing member,
A stationary exercise bicycle is presented having an adjustable seat and handlebars attached to a bottom frame. The frame also supports standard pedals and stems which are attached to a sprocket and subsequently to the front exercise wheel. The vertical height and horizontal position of the seat is infinitely adjustable within a broad range by means of a quick release handle. The height of the handlebars may be similarly adjusted by means of a quick attach handle. The tension on the front exercise wheel is adjustable and squeaking is kept to a minimum by the introduction of lubricating oil through a number of specially designed lubricating ports. The tensioning handle also has an emergency stop brake as well as a means for momentarily disengaging all friction on the wheel to facilitate a dismount. The working exercise wheel also has a directional clutch bearing such that the action of a modern bicycle is simulated. When the child using the exercise bicycle quits pedaling, the directional clutch allows the working wheel to continue in the clockwise direction while providing no direct force to the pedals, which may then remain stationary. A special foot pedal bracket also keeps the child's foot securely in contact with the pedal as desired.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a force transmitting member at an outer end thereof, said force transmitting member extending between said actuating member and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said force transmitting member away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said biasing member,
3 thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance, and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said actuating member and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a biasing mechanism for use with a friction pad and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle, comprising a force transmitting member operatively linked to the friction pad and displaceable for adjusting contact pressure of the friction pad against the flywheel, and a biasing member normally urging the force transmitting member toward the friction pad, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing the force transmitting member away from the flywheel to reduce contact pressure between the friction pad and the flywheel.
3a There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a method.of varying contact pressure between a friction brake and a flywheel of a stationary exercise bicycle, the method comprising providing a force transmitting member operatively engageabIe with the friction brake and disposed within reach of a user riding the exercise bicycle, and applying one of a pushing and pulling action to the force transmitting member in a direction substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis thereof, the pushing action acting to substantially increase contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel to at least slow rotation thereof, and the pulling action acting to temporarily release contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel by elastically deforming a biasing member acting on the force transmitting member.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a tensioning mechanism for use with a friction brake and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle comprising, a rod acting on the friction brake, a member permitting adjustment of a force between the flywheel and the friction brake by the positioning of said rod, and a biasing member urging the rod towards friction brake, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof to permit the rod to be temporarily moved away from the flywheel such that contact pressure between the friction brake and the flywheel is at least reduced.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention an adjustable exercise bicycle comprising a frame including a rotatably mounted flywheel, a friction member engageable in friction contact with the flywheel, and a tensioning mechanism acting on the friction member for applying variable restraining forces to said flywheel, said tensioning mechanism including a biasing member positioned to permit the tensioning mechanism to be displaced away from the flywheel to release force on said friction member.
3b In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, including a cross-bar, said frame supporting and attached to a seat, handlebars and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel;
(b) an adjustable friction piece mechanically in contact with said working wheel; and (c) a tensioning and quick brake and disengagement means comprising: a friction adjusting cylinder having a longitudinal bore said cylinder comprising a top end attached to said frame, a lower portion adapted to receive a tightening nut such that said nut may slide up and down in the lower portion of said cylinder but will not rotate, and a lower end located near said friction piece, said lower end having an inner flange, a threaded tightening shaft located within the longitudinal bore of said adjusting cylinder; having a top end, threaded lower portion, and a lower end, said lower end being in contact with said friction piece;
the tightening nut slidabIy located in the lower portion of said adjusting cylinder, threadedly attached to the lower portion of said tightening shaft; and a tensioning spring, located around the lower portion of said shaft, under said flange and above said tightening nut; wherein said cylinder, shaft, nut and spring cooperate to adjust the tension on said friction piece and wherein the top end of said threaded shaft may be pushed or pulled, respectively, to quickly brake said wheel or quickly disengage said friction piece from said wheel.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a front support, said frame supporting a scat and slidably adjustable handlebar means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel; wherein said handlebar adjusting means comprises: a handlebar attached to the top of a handlebar support, said handlebar support slidably located in said bicycle front support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle front support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill, said pill comprises an upper head flange and a lower pill shaft, said pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, wherein said flange prohibits said pill from going through 3c said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shag, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, a seat, handlebars and a working wheel attached to said frame and, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece comprising a top, a body and a lower surface, said lower surface being in mechanical contact with said working wheel, wherein said top, body and lower surface have a plurality of lubricating port holes therethrough, said holes communicating between the top and lower surface of said friction piece, wherein lubricating oil may be inserted into said ports from the top to lubricate the surfaces between said friction piece and said wheel.
In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, a seat, handlebars, a working wheel, and pedals being rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; (b) an adjustable friction piece mechanically in contact with said working wheel; and (c) a tensioning and quick brake and disengagement means comprising: a friction adjusting cylinder attached to said frame and defining a longitudinal bore therethrough, the bore being adapted to receive a tightening nut such that said nut may slide up and down therein but will not rotate, the adjusting cylinder defining a lower end located near said friction piece and having a flange engaged thereto above said lower end;
a threaded shaft located within the longitudinal bore of said adjusting cylinder, having a top end, a threaded portion, and a lower end, said lower end being engaged with said friction piece for applying pressure thereto; the tightening nut being slidably located in said adjusting cylinder and threadedly attached to the threaded portion of said shaft; and a tensioning spring, located around said shaft, under said flange and above said tightening nut; wherein said cylinder, shaft, nut and spring cooperate to adjust the tension on said 3d friction piece and wherein the top end of said threaded shaft may be pushed or pulled, respectively, to quickly brake said wheel or quickly disengage said friction piece from said wheel.
In accordance with yet a further aspect of the present invention there provided is an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a front support, said frame supporting a seat and slidably adjustable handlebar adjusting means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel;
wherein said handlebar adjusting means comprises: a handlebar attached to the top of a handlebar support, said handlebar support slidably located in said bicycle front support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle front support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, a flange member being engageable with said tightening pill to prevent said pill from going through said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shaft, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a rear support, said frame supporting handlebars and slidably adjustable seat adjusting means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel; wherein said seat adjusting means comprises: a seat attached to the top of a seat support, said seat support being slidably located in said bicycle rear support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle rear support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, a flange member being engageable with said tightening pill to prevent said pill from going through said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shaft, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly 3e inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the stationary exercise bicycle.
Figure lA is a side view of the stationary exercise bicycle.
Figure 2 is a partial side exploded view of the bicycle seat and support mechanism.
Figure 2A is a side cutaway view of the bicycle seat and support mechanism.
Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of the quick release system for the bicycle handlebars and support.
Figure 3A is a side cutaway view of the quick release system for the handlebars and handle bar supports.
Figure 3B is a side cutaway view of the front surface of the handle bar support and the bicycle support.
Figure 4 is a detailed view of the lubricating ports and lubricating mechanism.
Figure 5 is a detailed cutaway view of the exercise wheel tensioning system and the brake and quick release mechanism.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the working exercise wheel.
3f Figure 6A is a cutaway view of the working exercise wheel taken along the diameter of the exercise wheel shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6B is an exploded view of the working exercise wheel and hub system.
V. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
A stationary exercise bicycle 1 is shown_ in Figures 1 and lA This is the general configuration of stationary exercise bicycles now conrrnon throughout North America and the world. The basic elements of the stationary exercise bicycle include a seat (2), handlebars (3), pedals (4), and a working exercise wheel (5). These elements are all attached to a lower frame (6), as shown in Figures 1 and lA. The pedals (4) are attached to a sprocket and subsequently also mechanically attached to the working exercise wheel (5) by means of a chain or belt, which is enclosed in the drive guard (7).
Turning to Figures 2 and 2A, the seat and seat support mechanism are shown.
The seat (2) is attached to an oblique seat support (8). This oblique seat support (8) also has a horizontal base (9~) attached at its upper end The oblique seat support (8} has a height gauge (22) inscribed on the outer surface thereof. The horizontal seat base (9) has a horizontal groove (10) cut into the upper portion of the seat base. A seat peg (11) is adapted to attach to the seat (2). This seat peg (11) has a vertical shaft, which is attached to the seat by means of the standard double bolt mechanism (12).
Once the seat (2) has been firmly attached to the seat peg (11), the lower head (13) of the seat peg (11) is inserted into the horizontal seat base groove (10}. Because the sides of the lower head (1~) are flat, and because the groove (10) has flat sides, the seat is prevented from rotating.
The seat {2) is slidably yet firmly attached to the horizontal seat base (9) by means of the seat release lever (14). The seat release lever (14) has an upper threaded shaft (15) which mates with the female shaft threads located on the inside of the seat peg (11). A
washer (16) is also utilized to keep the mechanism tig$tened.
The seat may be adpsted either towards the handlebars or away from the handlebars by means of the quick release handle (14) across an infinite number of positions limited only by the length of groove (10). The groove defines the limits of the broad range of adjustments. The vertical height of the seat (2) is similarly infinitely adjustable across the broad range of adjustments by use of a seat height lever (39), as shown on Figure lA The seat lever (39) functions in the same manner as lever (14).
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance, and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said actuating member and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a biasing mechanism for use with a friction pad and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle, comprising a force transmitting member operatively linked to the friction pad and displaceable for adjusting contact pressure of the friction pad against the flywheel, and a biasing member normally urging the force transmitting member toward the friction pad, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing the force transmitting member away from the flywheel to reduce contact pressure between the friction pad and the flywheel.
3a There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a method.of varying contact pressure between a friction brake and a flywheel of a stationary exercise bicycle, the method comprising providing a force transmitting member operatively engageabIe with the friction brake and disposed within reach of a user riding the exercise bicycle, and applying one of a pushing and pulling action to the force transmitting member in a direction substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis thereof, the pushing action acting to substantially increase contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel to at least slow rotation thereof, and the pulling action acting to temporarily release contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel by elastically deforming a biasing member acting on the force transmitting member.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention a tensioning mechanism for use with a friction brake and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle comprising, a rod acting on the friction brake, a member permitting adjustment of a force between the flywheel and the friction brake by the positioning of said rod, and a biasing member urging the rod towards friction brake, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof to permit the rod to be temporarily moved away from the flywheel such that contact pressure between the friction brake and the flywheel is at least reduced.
There is provided, in accordance with the present invention an adjustable exercise bicycle comprising a frame including a rotatably mounted flywheel, a friction member engageable in friction contact with the flywheel, and a tensioning mechanism acting on the friction member for applying variable restraining forces to said flywheel, said tensioning mechanism including a biasing member positioned to permit the tensioning mechanism to be displaced away from the flywheel to release force on said friction member.
3b In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, including a cross-bar, said frame supporting and attached to a seat, handlebars and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel;
(b) an adjustable friction piece mechanically in contact with said working wheel; and (c) a tensioning and quick brake and disengagement means comprising: a friction adjusting cylinder having a longitudinal bore said cylinder comprising a top end attached to said frame, a lower portion adapted to receive a tightening nut such that said nut may slide up and down in the lower portion of said cylinder but will not rotate, and a lower end located near said friction piece, said lower end having an inner flange, a threaded tightening shaft located within the longitudinal bore of said adjusting cylinder; having a top end, threaded lower portion, and a lower end, said lower end being in contact with said friction piece;
the tightening nut slidabIy located in the lower portion of said adjusting cylinder, threadedly attached to the lower portion of said tightening shaft; and a tensioning spring, located around the lower portion of said shaft, under said flange and above said tightening nut; wherein said cylinder, shaft, nut and spring cooperate to adjust the tension on said friction piece and wherein the top end of said threaded shaft may be pushed or pulled, respectively, to quickly brake said wheel or quickly disengage said friction piece from said wheel.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a front support, said frame supporting a scat and slidably adjustable handlebar means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel; wherein said handlebar adjusting means comprises: a handlebar attached to the top of a handlebar support, said handlebar support slidably located in said bicycle front support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle front support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill, said pill comprises an upper head flange and a lower pill shaft, said pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, wherein said flange prohibits said pill from going through 3c said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shag, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, a seat, handlebars and a working wheel attached to said frame and, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece comprising a top, a body and a lower surface, said lower surface being in mechanical contact with said working wheel, wherein said top, body and lower surface have a plurality of lubricating port holes therethrough, said holes communicating between the top and lower surface of said friction piece, wherein lubricating oil may be inserted into said ports from the top to lubricate the surfaces between said friction piece and said wheel.
In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame, a seat, handlebars, a working wheel, and pedals being rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; (b) an adjustable friction piece mechanically in contact with said working wheel; and (c) a tensioning and quick brake and disengagement means comprising: a friction adjusting cylinder attached to said frame and defining a longitudinal bore therethrough, the bore being adapted to receive a tightening nut such that said nut may slide up and down therein but will not rotate, the adjusting cylinder defining a lower end located near said friction piece and having a flange engaged thereto above said lower end;
a threaded shaft located within the longitudinal bore of said adjusting cylinder, having a top end, a threaded portion, and a lower end, said lower end being engaged with said friction piece for applying pressure thereto; the tightening nut being slidably located in said adjusting cylinder and threadedly attached to the threaded portion of said shaft; and a tensioning spring, located around said shaft, under said flange and above said tightening nut; wherein said cylinder, shaft, nut and spring cooperate to adjust the tension on said 3d friction piece and wherein the top end of said threaded shaft may be pushed or pulled, respectively, to quickly brake said wheel or quickly disengage said friction piece from said wheel.
In accordance with yet a further aspect of the present invention there provided is an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a front support, said frame supporting a seat and slidably adjustable handlebar adjusting means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel;
wherein said handlebar adjusting means comprises: a handlebar attached to the top of a handlebar support, said handlebar support slidably located in said bicycle front support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle front support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, a flange member being engageable with said tightening pill to prevent said pill from going through said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shaft, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention there is provided an adjustable exercise bicycle, comprising: (a) a frame including a rear support, said frame supporting handlebars and slidably adjustable seat adjusting means, and a working wheel, also comprising pedals rotatably attached to said frame and operatively connected to said working wheel; and (b) a friction piece mechanically in contact with said wheel; wherein said seat adjusting means comprises: a seat attached to the top of a seat support, said seat support being slidably located in said bicycle rear support; a threaded spacer attached to said bicycle rear support at an adjusting hole; a tightening pill adapted to be inserted inside said threaded spacer, a flange member being engageable with said tightening pill to prevent said pill from going through said adjusting hole; and a quick release lever having a handle and a threaded shaft, wherein said threaded shaft is adapted to be threadedly 3e inserted into said spacer; wherein said handlebar support may be adjustably secured inside of said bicycle front support by said lever and tightening pill.
IV. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the stationary exercise bicycle.
Figure lA is a side view of the stationary exercise bicycle.
Figure 2 is a partial side exploded view of the bicycle seat and support mechanism.
Figure 2A is a side cutaway view of the bicycle seat and support mechanism.
Figure 3 is a perspective exploded view of the quick release system for the bicycle handlebars and support.
Figure 3A is a side cutaway view of the quick release system for the handlebars and handle bar supports.
Figure 3B is a side cutaway view of the front surface of the handle bar support and the bicycle support.
Figure 4 is a detailed view of the lubricating ports and lubricating mechanism.
Figure 5 is a detailed cutaway view of the exercise wheel tensioning system and the brake and quick release mechanism.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the working exercise wheel.
3f Figure 6A is a cutaway view of the working exercise wheel taken along the diameter of the exercise wheel shown in Figure 6.
Figure 6B is an exploded view of the working exercise wheel and hub system.
V. BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
A stationary exercise bicycle 1 is shown_ in Figures 1 and lA This is the general configuration of stationary exercise bicycles now conrrnon throughout North America and the world. The basic elements of the stationary exercise bicycle include a seat (2), handlebars (3), pedals (4), and a working exercise wheel (5). These elements are all attached to a lower frame (6), as shown in Figures 1 and lA. The pedals (4) are attached to a sprocket and subsequently also mechanically attached to the working exercise wheel (5) by means of a chain or belt, which is enclosed in the drive guard (7).
Turning to Figures 2 and 2A, the seat and seat support mechanism are shown.
The seat (2) is attached to an oblique seat support (8). This oblique seat support (8) also has a horizontal base (9~) attached at its upper end The oblique seat support (8} has a height gauge (22) inscribed on the outer surface thereof. The horizontal seat base (9) has a horizontal groove (10) cut into the upper portion of the seat base. A seat peg (11) is adapted to attach to the seat (2). This seat peg (11) has a vertical shaft, which is attached to the seat by means of the standard double bolt mechanism (12).
Once the seat (2) has been firmly attached to the seat peg (11), the lower head (13) of the seat peg (11) is inserted into the horizontal seat base groove (10}. Because the sides of the lower head (1~) are flat, and because the groove (10) has flat sides, the seat is prevented from rotating.
The seat {2) is slidably yet firmly attached to the horizontal seat base (9) by means of the seat release lever (14). The seat release lever (14) has an upper threaded shaft (15) which mates with the female shaft threads located on the inside of the seat peg (11). A
washer (16) is also utilized to keep the mechanism tig$tened.
The seat may be adpsted either towards the handlebars or away from the handlebars by means of the quick release handle (14) across an infinite number of positions limited only by the length of groove (10). The groove defines the limits of the broad range of adjustments. The vertical height of the seat (2) is similarly infinitely adjustable across the broad range of adjustments by use of a seat height lever (39), as shown on Figure lA The seat lever (39) functions in the same manner as lever (14).
4 The vertical height of the handlebars may also be adjusted as illustrated in Figures 3 and 3A. The handlebars are attached to an oblique handlebar support (17). TMs handlebar support has an essentially rectangular cross section. The front surface (I8) of the handlebar support (17) has a V-shaped indentation. This V-shaped indentation is best shown in Figure 3B, The handlebar support slides into the bicycle front support {19). The bicycle front support (19) also has an essentially rectangular cross section, and is attached to the lower frame (6), as shown in Figure 1. One outer surface (20) of the bicycle front support (19) has a corresponding protruding V-shaped surface, as shown in Figure 3B. The protruding V-shaped surface of the front support (19) corresponds to the V-shaped indentation of the front surface of the handlebar support (17). This V-shaped protrusion and channel keep the handlebars in firm orientation with the front support (19) such that the handlebars do not sway back and forth when the user is alternating weight between the left and right handlebars.
The oblique handlebar support (I7) slides inside the bicycle front support (19) such that the height of the handlebars may be infinitely adjusted across the range of adjustments defined by the length of the handlebar support (17). The height of the handlebars may be set specif rally by means of the nzler scale (21), as shown on Figure 3. Rather than using a pop pin mechanism which allows only for the seat or handlebar adjpstments to be made incrementally according to the spacing of the preset holes,. both the seat (2) and handlebars (3) in the present invention may be infinitely adjusted over the broad range of height and horizontal adjustments as determined by the handlebar ruler scale (21) andthe seat scale (22).
As best shown in Figures 3 and 3A, the adjustment of the handlebars may be made using a thread~i quick release lever (14') similar to the quick release lever (14) used for the seat adjustment. This quick release lever (14') also has a threaded shaft (15'). A
threaded spacer (23) is permanently affixed to the front surface (20) of the bicycle support (19). Inside this threaded spacer (23) is located a brass pill (24). This brass pill (24) has an upper head (25) and a lower shaft (26) as shown on Figure 3 _ The brass pill head (25) creates a flange, which prohibits the entire brass pill (24) from going through the adjusting hole (27). As best shown in Figure 3A, once the oblique handlebar support (I7) has been correctly positioned, the quick attach lever (I4') is turned such that the shaft (l5') tightens the brass pill (24) which in turn secures the handlebar support (17) in stationary position withrespect to the bicycle front support (19).
Another improvement over standard exercise bicycles is best shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4 is an expanded view of the tensioning and lubricating mechanism of.this device. When one sits on the bicycle and moves the pedals (4) in a clockwise direction, the drive mechanism located underneath the drive guard (7) between the pedals (4) and the working exercise wheel
The oblique handlebar support (I7) slides inside the bicycle front support (19) such that the height of the handlebars may be infinitely adjusted across the range of adjustments defined by the length of the handlebar support (17). The height of the handlebars may be set specif rally by means of the nzler scale (21), as shown on Figure 3. Rather than using a pop pin mechanism which allows only for the seat or handlebar adjpstments to be made incrementally according to the spacing of the preset holes,. both the seat (2) and handlebars (3) in the present invention may be infinitely adjusted over the broad range of height and horizontal adjustments as determined by the handlebar ruler scale (21) andthe seat scale (22).
As best shown in Figures 3 and 3A, the adjustment of the handlebars may be made using a thread~i quick release lever (14') similar to the quick release lever (14) used for the seat adjustment. This quick release lever (14') also has a threaded shaft (15'). A
threaded spacer (23) is permanently affixed to the front surface (20) of the bicycle support (19). Inside this threaded spacer (23) is located a brass pill (24). This brass pill (24) has an upper head (25) and a lower shaft (26) as shown on Figure 3 _ The brass pill head (25) creates a flange, which prohibits the entire brass pill (24) from going through the adjusting hole (27). As best shown in Figure 3A, once the oblique handlebar support (I7) has been correctly positioned, the quick attach lever (I4') is turned such that the shaft (l5') tightens the brass pill (24) which in turn secures the handlebar support (17) in stationary position withrespect to the bicycle front support (19).
Another improvement over standard exercise bicycles is best shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4 is an expanded view of the tensioning and lubricating mechanism of.this device. When one sits on the bicycle and moves the pedals (4) in a clockwise direction, the drive mechanism located underneath the drive guard (7) between the pedals (4) and the working exercise wheel
(5) moves the wheel. The clockwise motion of the pedals moves the exercise wheel (5) in a clockwise direction. In order to create the desired amount of friction, thus causing the work to increase or decrease, a friction piece (28) is pressed against the outer circumference of the wheel (5). The more firmly the friction piece (28) is pressed against the wheel (5), the more friction is created and the harder it is to turn the pedals (4).
Creating this friction between the friction piece (28) and wheel (5) will often cause squeaking. in order to alleviate this squeaking noise, the top and body of the friction piece (28) has drilled through it a plurality of friction piece ports (29). These ports (29) communicate between the top and the lower surface of the friction piece. A
special TeflonTM
lubricating oil may be inserted into the plurality of the ports (29) to lubricate the corresponding surfaces between the friction piece (28) and the working exercise wheel (5).
The friction between the friction piece (28) and the exercise wheel (5) is adjusted by means of a friction adjusting shaft (30). A friction adjusting shaft mechanism is fairly common throughout the stationary exercise bicycle industry. Essentially the shaft (30), is positioned in a cylinder (31) such that the friction piece (28) may be moved towards or away from the working wheel (5) by a screw-type mechanism. The cylinder (31) is affixed to the crossbar (33) of the frame.
However, as best shown in Figure 5, a unique spring biassing mechanism found only in the instant stationary exercise bicycle allows for a quick release of the wheel or for an instant brake of the wheel. A friction-tightening nut (34) is threaded and adapted to receive the threaded shaft (30) of the friction adjustment mechanism. The nut (34) may slide up or down in the cylinder (31) but does not rotate since it has the same square shape as the lower end of the shaft. The lower end of the friction adjustment shaft (30) is also attached to the friction piece (28). The threaded shaft is contained within the cylinder (31).
Turning the threaded friction adjustment shaft (30) either moves the tightening nut (34) away from or towards the working exercise wheel (5).
A special friction adjusting shaft spring (32) is located in the lower part of the friction adjusting shaft cylinder (31). A flange (40) holds the spring (32) in the lower portion of cylinder (31) as shown on Figure 5. Tightening nut (34) compresses spring (32) and increases the friction between piece (28) and wheel (S). Loosening nut (34) decreases the friction.
Creating this friction between the friction piece (28) and wheel (5) will often cause squeaking. in order to alleviate this squeaking noise, the top and body of the friction piece (28) has drilled through it a plurality of friction piece ports (29). These ports (29) communicate between the top and the lower surface of the friction piece. A
special TeflonTM
lubricating oil may be inserted into the plurality of the ports (29) to lubricate the corresponding surfaces between the friction piece (28) and the working exercise wheel (5).
The friction between the friction piece (28) and the exercise wheel (5) is adjusted by means of a friction adjusting shaft (30). A friction adjusting shaft mechanism is fairly common throughout the stationary exercise bicycle industry. Essentially the shaft (30), is positioned in a cylinder (31) such that the friction piece (28) may be moved towards or away from the working wheel (5) by a screw-type mechanism. The cylinder (31) is affixed to the crossbar (33) of the frame.
However, as best shown in Figure 5, a unique spring biassing mechanism found only in the instant stationary exercise bicycle allows for a quick release of the wheel or for an instant brake of the wheel. A friction-tightening nut (34) is threaded and adapted to receive the threaded shaft (30) of the friction adjustment mechanism. The nut (34) may slide up or down in the cylinder (31) but does not rotate since it has the same square shape as the lower end of the shaft. The lower end of the friction adjustment shaft (30) is also attached to the friction piece (28). The threaded shaft is contained within the cylinder (31).
Turning the threaded friction adjustment shaft (30) either moves the tightening nut (34) away from or towards the working exercise wheel (5).
A special friction adjusting shaft spring (32) is located in the lower part of the friction adjusting shaft cylinder (31). A flange (40) holds the spring (32) in the lower portion of cylinder (31) as shown on Figure 5. Tightening nut (34) compresses spring (32) and increases the friction between piece (28) and wheel (S). Loosening nut (34) decreases the friction.
6 When it is necessary to stop the movement of the wheel (5) immediately, the handle (35) of the mechanism is simply pushed down. This pushes the friction piece (28) tightly against the wheel (S) and stops rotation of the wheel. It has been found that this type of emergency quick stop mechanism is necessary for applications involving children. Adult riders and children are sometimes careless or inattentive to the motion of the exercise bicycle and a quick stop emergency mechanism such as the one described is deemed highly advisable.
Alternatively, if the friction adjusting shaft handle (35) is raised, compressing the shaft spring (32), the wheel may then be disengaged from the friction piece and spin freely. Moving the handle (35) upwards disengages the friction piece (28) from the moving wheel (5) and enables a person, particularly a child or adolescent, to easily and safely alight from the exercise bicycle.
Many bicycles actually used on the road are positively attached between the pedals and the wheels by a chain. Because of this positive attachment, the pedals continue to move as long as the wheel moves. On some newer bicycles, a directional clutch system is used such that the wheels can continue to turn while the pedals are disengaged due to a directional clutch system. Such a system has been specifically adapted herein in order to allow the pedals to remain stationary while the working exercise wheel continues to rotate in the clockwise direction. This system is shown particularly in Figures 6, 6A and 6B.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the working exercise wheel (5). The working exercise wheel is composed of a hub (36) and a clockwise directional clutch bearing (37). The hub, wheel, and bearing are affixed to the lower frame (6) as best shown in Figures 1 and IA.
It has been found that, particularly for child or adolescent applications, the directional clutch bearing mechanism shown in Figures 6, 6A and 6B enhances the comfort, safety, and overall utility of the device. The brake/disengagement means described herein are special improvements over the prior art.
A final improvement in this exercise bicycle is shown in Figure 1. This improvement comprises a suitable cage placed around each pedal. This cage (38) keeps the user's foot snugly secured to the pedal (4). This pedal cage (38) allows the foot to remain in contact with the pedal even when the foot and pedals are rapidly rotating. It has been found that a safety feature such as the pedal cage (38) greatly enhances the safety and overall utility of the stationary exercise bicycle.
While many of the aforementioned elements of the stationary exercise bicycle are common throughout the industry, the specific incorporation of the infinitely adjustable seat and
Alternatively, if the friction adjusting shaft handle (35) is raised, compressing the shaft spring (32), the wheel may then be disengaged from the friction piece and spin freely. Moving the handle (35) upwards disengages the friction piece (28) from the moving wheel (5) and enables a person, particularly a child or adolescent, to easily and safely alight from the exercise bicycle.
Many bicycles actually used on the road are positively attached between the pedals and the wheels by a chain. Because of this positive attachment, the pedals continue to move as long as the wheel moves. On some newer bicycles, a directional clutch system is used such that the wheels can continue to turn while the pedals are disengaged due to a directional clutch system. Such a system has been specifically adapted herein in order to allow the pedals to remain stationary while the working exercise wheel continues to rotate in the clockwise direction. This system is shown particularly in Figures 6, 6A and 6B.
Figure 6 is a perspective view of the working exercise wheel (5). The working exercise wheel is composed of a hub (36) and a clockwise directional clutch bearing (37). The hub, wheel, and bearing are affixed to the lower frame (6) as best shown in Figures 1 and IA.
It has been found that, particularly for child or adolescent applications, the directional clutch bearing mechanism shown in Figures 6, 6A and 6B enhances the comfort, safety, and overall utility of the device. The brake/disengagement means described herein are special improvements over the prior art.
A final improvement in this exercise bicycle is shown in Figure 1. This improvement comprises a suitable cage placed around each pedal. This cage (38) keeps the user's foot snugly secured to the pedal (4). This pedal cage (38) allows the foot to remain in contact with the pedal even when the foot and pedals are rapidly rotating. It has been found that a safety feature such as the pedal cage (38) greatly enhances the safety and overall utility of the stationary exercise bicycle.
While many of the aforementioned elements of the stationary exercise bicycle are common throughout the industry, the specific incorporation of the infinitely adjustable seat and
7 handlebars, the quick release mechanisms for the adjustment of the seat and handlebars, the special lubricating elements of the device, the emergency stop and emergency release of the working wheel, as well as the clutch mechanism of the wheel and the pedal cage are all improvements over the prior art. While some of these elements have been incorporated irxto regular road use bicycles, incorporating these features into a stationary exercise bicycle is new and novel in the art.
VI. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
This invention is most commonly used at exercise clubs, fitness centers, gymnasiums, school and university health rooms, and in work out rooms located in individual homes or apartments. It is anticipated that a large number of these stationary exercise bicycles will be located in group settings and that the industrial applicability would pertain to the use of a number of these devices in health and fitness centers. However, these devices may also be used in individual residences or homes, particularly in those locations where a dedicated health room or fitness area has been set aside. The important advantages of the stationary exercise bicycle include the adjustable seat and handlebars, the clutch mechanism and the lubricated tensioning system. This device pertains particularly to the industry of health and fitness centers, but is also applicable to individual health and fitness areas located in residential dwelling places.
The invention is capable of exploitation in the health and fitness center in particular, but may also be used for the professional or semi-professional athletic industry or in the high school or college athletic exercise equipment industry.
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VI. INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY
This invention is most commonly used at exercise clubs, fitness centers, gymnasiums, school and university health rooms, and in work out rooms located in individual homes or apartments. It is anticipated that a large number of these stationary exercise bicycles will be located in group settings and that the industrial applicability would pertain to the use of a number of these devices in health and fitness centers. However, these devices may also be used in individual residences or homes, particularly in those locations where a dedicated health room or fitness area has been set aside. The important advantages of the stationary exercise bicycle include the adjustable seat and handlebars, the clutch mechanism and the lubricated tensioning system. This device pertains particularly to the industry of health and fitness centers, but is also applicable to individual health and fitness areas located in residential dwelling places.
The invention is capable of exploitation in the health and fitness center in particular, but may also be used for the professional or semi-professional athletic industry or in the high school or college athletic exercise equipment industry.
s
Claims (53)
1. A stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising:
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a force transmitting member at an outer end thereof, said force transmitting member extending between said actuating member and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said force transmitting member away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said biasing member, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a force transmitting member at an outer end thereof, said force transmitting member extending between said actuating member and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said force transmitting member away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said biasing member, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
2. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein said biasing member is disposed between a first reaction surface immobile relative to said frame and a second reaction surface disposed to transmit force from said biasing member to said force transmitting member.
3. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 2, wherein said second reaction surface is defined on a reaction member displaceable with said force transmitting member.
4. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 3, wherein said force transmitting member is a shaft and said reaction member is a nut threadably engaged thereto, said nut being rotationally captive relative to said frame and displaceable along said shaft in response to rotation thereof within said nut, such that force exerted by said shaft against said brake pad is variable by rotating said shaft to control contact pressure of said brake pad on said working wheel and therefore rotational resistance against said working wheel.
5. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 4, wherein said first reaction surface is defined on a lower portion of a hollow tube fixed to said frame and extending therethrough, said shaft being received within said hollow tube.
6. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 5, wherein said shaft is linearly displaceable within said hollow tube.
7. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 6, wherein said shaft is operable to transmit force therethrough toward said brake pad along a longitudinal axis of said shaft in response to inward pressure applied by the user to said actuating member, thereby temporarily applying additional brake pad contact pressure to said working wheel to at least slow rotation thereof.
8. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 5, wherein said biasing member is a compression spring located between said lower portion of said hollow tube and said nut.
9. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 8, wherein said compression spring is a helical coil spring disposed about said shaft.
10. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein said biasing member provides a substantially linear resistance when subjected to said elastic deformation.
11. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein said biasing member defines a cross-sectional area transverse to a direction of deflection thereof, said cross-sectional area remaining substantially constant throughout said elastic deformation.
12. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein a gap is defined between said biasing member and said force transmitting member throughout a range of elastic deformation of said biasing member.
13. The exercise bicycle as defined in any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the biasing member is a spring.
14. The exercise bicycleas defined in claim 13, wherein said spring is a helical coil spring.
15. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein said brake pad is engageable against a circumferential surface of said working wheel.
16. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 1, wherein said brake pad comprises lubrication ports in an outer surface thereof which are in fluid flow communication with an inner friction surface thereof engageable against said working wheel, whereby lubrication of said friction surface by a lubricating fluid is possible to reduce noise generated by said friction.
17. A stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising:
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said actuating member and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having an actuating member disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said actuating member and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
18. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, wherein said nut being rotationally captive relative to said frame and displaceable along said shaft in response to rotation thereof within said nut, such that force exerted by said shaft against said brake pad is variable by rotating said shaft to gradually control contact pressure of said brake pad on said working wheel and therefore rotational resistance thereagainst.
19. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, wherein said passage is defined within a hollow tube fixed to said frame and extending therethrough, said reaction surface being defined on a lower portion of said hollow tube.
20. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 19, wherein said spring is a compression spring disposed about said shaft between said hollow tube and said nut.
21. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, wherein said shaft is operable to transmit force therethrough toward said brake pad along the longitudinal axis in response to inward pressure applied by the user to said actuating member, such that temporary additional brake pad contact pressure is applied to said working wheel to at least slow rotation thereof.
22. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, said spring provides a substantially linear resistance when subjected to said elastic deformation.
23. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, wherein said spring defines a cross-sectional area transverse to a direction of deflection thereof, said cross-sectional area remaining substantially constant throughout said elastic deformation.
24. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 17, wherein a gap is defined between said spring and said shaft throughout a range of elastic deformation of said spring.
25. The exercise bicycle as defined in any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein said spring is a helical coil spring.
26. A biasing mechanism for use with a friction pad and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle, comprising a force transmitting member operatively linked to the friction pad and displaceable for adjusting contact pressure of the friction pad against the flywheel, and a biasing member normally urging the force transmitting member toward the friction pad, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing the force transmitting member away from the flywheel to reduce contact pressure between the friction pad and the flywheel.
27. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 26, wherein said biasing member is disposed between a first reaction surface adapted to be immobile relative to a frame of the exercise bicycle and a second reaction surface disposed to transmit force from said biasing member to said force transmitting member.
28. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 27, wherein said second reaction surface is defined on a force adjustment member displaceable with the force transmitting member.
29. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 28, wherein said force transmitting member is a shaft and said force adjustment member is a nut threadably engaged thereto between the friction pad and the first reaction surface.
30. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 29, wherein said biasing member is a compression spring disposed about the shaft between the first reaction surface and the nut.
31. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 27, further comprising a hollow tube adapted to be fixed to the frame and the force transmitting member extending therethrough, the first reaction surface being defined on a lower portion of the hollow tube.
32. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 26, wherein said biasing member provides a substantially linear resistance when subjected to said elastic deformation.
33. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 26, wherein said biasing member defines a cross-sectional area transverse to a direction of deflection thereof, said cross-sectional area remaining substantially constant throughout said elastic deformation.
34. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 26, wherein a gap is defined between said biasing member and said force transmitting member throughout a range of elastic deformation of said biasing member.
35. The biasing mechanism as defined in any one of claims 32 to 34, wherein said biasing member is a spring.
36. The biasing mechanism as defined in claim 35, wherein said spring is a helical coil spring.
37. A method of varying contact pressure between a friction brake and a flywheel of a stationary exercise bicycle, the method comprising:
providing a force transmitting member operatively engageable with the friction brake and disposed within reach of a user riding the exercise bicycle; and applying one of a pushing and pulling action to the force transmitting member in a direction substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis thereof, the pushing action acting to substantially increase contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel to at least slow rotation thereof, and the pulling action acting to temporarily release contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel by elastically deforming a biasing member acting on the force transmitting member.
providing a force transmitting member operatively engageable with the friction brake and disposed within reach of a user riding the exercise bicycle; and applying one of a pushing and pulling action to the force transmitting member in a direction substantially aligned with a longitudinal axis thereof, the pushing action acting to substantially increase contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel to at least slow rotation thereof, and the pulling action acting to temporarily release contact pressure of the friction brake against the flywheel by elastically deforming a biasing member acting on the force transmitting member.
38. The method as defined in claim 37, wherein the force transmitting member is a shaft received within a nut rotationally captive relative to a frame of the exercise bicycle, the method further comprising rotating the shaft about the longitudinal axis thereof to gradually varying the contact pressure between the friction brake and the flywheel, wherein rotation of the shaft in a first direction gradually increases friction between the friction brake and the flywheel, and rotation of the shaft in a second direction opposed the first gradually decreases friction between the friction brake and the flywheel.
39. A tensioning mechanism for use with a friction brake and a flywheel of an exercise bicycle comprising:
a rod acting on the friction brake;
a member permitting adjustment of a force between the flywheel and the friction brake by the positioning of said rod; and a biasing member urging the rod towards friction brake, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof to permit the rod to be temporarily moved away from the flywheel such that contact pressure between the friction brake and the flywheel is at least reduced.
a rod acting on the friction brake;
a member permitting adjustment of a force between the flywheel and the friction brake by the positioning of said rod; and a biasing member urging the rod towards friction brake, the biasing member being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof to permit the rod to be temporarily moved away from the flywheel such that contact pressure between the friction brake and the flywheel is at least reduced.
40. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 39, wherein the member is disposed on a lower end of the rod near the friction brake and the biasing member is provided on the rod above the member.
41. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 40, wherein the member is a nut threadably engaged to the rod.
42. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 39, wherein the biasing member provides a substantially linear resistance when subjected to the elastic deformation.
43. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 39, wherein the biasing member defines a cross-sectional area transverse to a direction of deflection thereof, the cross-sectional area remaining substantially constant throughout the elastic deformation.
44. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 39, wherein a gap is defined between the biasing member and the rod throughout a range of elastic deformation of the biasing member.
45. The tensioning mechanism as defined in any one of claims 42 to 44, wherein the biasing member is a spring.
46. The tensioning mechanism as defined in claim 45, wherein the spring is a helical coil spring.
47. An adjustable exercise bicycle comprising:
a frame including a rotatably mounted flywheel;
a friction member engageable in friction contact with the flywheel; and a tensioning mechanism acting on the friction member for applying variable restraining forces to said flywheel, said tensioning mechanism including a biasing member positioned to permit the tensioning mechanism to be displaced away from the flywheel to release force on said friction member.
a frame including a rotatably mounted flywheel;
a friction member engageable in friction contact with the flywheel; and a tensioning mechanism acting on the friction member for applying variable restraining forces to said flywheel, said tensioning mechanism including a biasing member positioned to permit the tensioning mechanism to be displaced away from the flywheel to release force on said friction member.
48. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 47, wherein the biasing member provides a substantially linear resistance when subjected to elastic deformation.
49. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 47, wherein the biasing member defines a cross-sectional area transverse to a direction of deflection thereof, the cross-sectional area remaining substantially constant throughout elastic deformation of the biasing member.
50. The exercise bicycle as defined in any one of claims 48 to 49, wherein the biasing member is a spring.
51. The exercise bicycle as defined in claim 50, wherein the spring is a helical coil spring.
52. A stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising:
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having a handle disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a shaft at an outer end thereof, said shaft extending between said handle and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said shaft away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said spring, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having a handle disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and engaged with a shaft at an outer end thereof, said shaft extending between said handle and said brake pad and being displaceable relative to said frame, a spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by displacing said shaft away from said brake pad against a biasing force of said spring, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
53. A stationary exercise bicycle including a frame rotatably supporting a working wheel operatively connected to pedals, said exercise bicycle comprising:
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having a handle disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said handle and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
a braking system operable to apply rotational resistance to said working wheel, said braking system including a brake pad engageable against said working wheel such that friction therebetween generates said rotational resistance, and an adjustment mechanism operable to vary contact pressure of said brake pad against said working wheel to control said rotational resistance; and said adjustment mechanism having a handle disposed within reach of a user riding said exercise bicycle and fixed to a shaft at an upper end thereof, said shaft extending between said handle and said brake pad through a passage defined in said frame, said shaft being displaceable along a longitudinal axis thereof within said passage and having at least a threaded lower portion to which a nut is engaged, a spring being disposed between a reaction surface immobile relative to the frame and said nut, said spring being elastically deformable away from a rest position thereof by raising said shaft away from said brake pad, thereby temporarily reducing contact pressure between said brake pad and said working wheel to provide a decrease in rotational resistance against said working wheel.
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US10/008,414 | 2001-11-13 | ||
| US10/008,414 US6612970B2 (en) | 2001-11-13 | 2001-11-13 | Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle |
| CA002467051A CA2467051C (en) | 2001-11-13 | 2002-11-04 | Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002467051A Division CA2467051C (en) | 2001-11-13 | 2002-11-04 | Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2510594A1 true CA2510594A1 (en) | 2003-05-22 |
Family
ID=34888099
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002510594A Abandoned CA2510594A1 (en) | 2001-11-13 | 2002-11-04 | Adjustable stationary exercise bicycle |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2510594A1 (en) |
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN110812786A (en) * | 2019-11-26 | 2020-02-21 | 天津运筹天下科技有限公司 | Terraced duplex VR all-round motion and universal treadmill |
| CN111481400A (en) * | 2020-04-10 | 2020-08-04 | 宿州学院 | Lower limb rehabilitation training robot |
-
2002
- 2002-11-04 CA CA002510594A patent/CA2510594A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (2)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN110812786A (en) * | 2019-11-26 | 2020-02-21 | 天津运筹天下科技有限公司 | Terraced duplex VR all-round motion and universal treadmill |
| CN111481400A (en) * | 2020-04-10 | 2020-08-04 | 宿州学院 | Lower limb rehabilitation training robot |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEER | Examination request | ||
| FZDE | Dead |
Effective date: 20190128 |