CA2621028A1 - Exercise device and a method thereof - Google Patents
Exercise device and a method thereof Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- CA2621028A1 CA2621028A1 CA002621028A CA2621028A CA2621028A1 CA 2621028 A1 CA2621028 A1 CA 2621028A1 CA 002621028 A CA002621028 A CA 002621028A CA 2621028 A CA2621028 A CA 2621028A CA 2621028 A1 CA2621028 A1 CA 2621028A1
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- Prior art keywords
- foot
- motion provider
- pair
- motion
- path
- Prior art date
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- Abandoned
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims description 7
- 230000000284 resting effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 230000033001 locomotion Effects 0.000 claims description 95
- 239000004606 Fillers/Extenders Substances 0.000 claims description 12
- 230000002708 enhancing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000003472 neutralizing effect Effects 0.000 claims description 8
- 230000008878 coupling Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000010168 coupling process Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000005859 coupling reaction Methods 0.000 claims description 5
- 230000000694 effects Effects 0.000 claims description 3
- 230000007423 decrease Effects 0.000 claims 2
- 210000002683 foot Anatomy 0.000 description 106
- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 description 4
- 210000000544 articulatio talocruralis Anatomy 0.000 description 3
- 210000003423 ankle Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 230000000712 assembly Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000000429 assembly Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 210000000629 knee joint Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 210000003371 toe Anatomy 0.000 description 2
- 238000010521 absorption reaction Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000009194 climbing Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000006835 compression Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000007906 compression Methods 0.000 description 1
- 238000005516 engineering process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 210000005036 nerve Anatomy 0.000 description 1
- 208000035824 paresthesia Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000002441 reversible effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004904 shortening Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000001052 transient effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
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- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/06—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement
- A63B22/0664—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing an elliptic movement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0002—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms
- A63B22/001—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements involving an exercising of arms by simultaneously exercising arms and legs, e.g. diagonally in anti-phase
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/06—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement
- A63B22/0664—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing an elliptic movement
- A63B2022/067—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing an elliptic movement with crank and handles being on opposite sides of the exercising apparatus with respect to the frontal body-plane of the user, e.g. the crank is behind and handles are in front of the user
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/18—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with elements, i.e. platforms, having a circulating, nutating or rotating movement, generated by oscillating movement of the user, e.g. platforms wobbling on a centrally arranged spherical support
- A63B2022/185—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with elements, i.e. platforms, having a circulating, nutating or rotating movement, generated by oscillating movement of the user, e.g. platforms wobbling on a centrally arranged spherical support specially adapted for using with a single foot or hand
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B71/00—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00
- A63B71/02—Games or sports accessories not covered in groups A63B1/00 - A63B69/00 for large-room or outdoor sporting games
- A63B71/023—Supports, e.g. poles
- A63B2071/025—Supports, e.g. poles on rollers or wheels
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/22—Resisting devices with rotary bodies
- A63B21/225—Resisting devices with rotary bodies with flywheels
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0046—Details of the support elements or their connection to the exercising apparatus, e.g. adjustment of size or orientation
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Cardiology (AREA)
- Vascular Medicine (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Physical Education & Sports Medicine (AREA)
- Rehabilitation Tools (AREA)
Abstract
An exercise device is provided which includes a frame, first and second foot links, each foot link having a first end and a second end, the first end being movably coupled to the frame, first and second foot rests coupled respectively to the first and second foot links, each foot rest having a foot resting surface for supporting a foot of a user, and a rotatable member coupled to the frame so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis. Further, the second end of the first foot link and the second end of the second foot link are both coupled to the rotatable member such that both the second ends are rotatable about the rotation axis. With rotation of the first and second ends about the rotation axis, the foot rests traverse respectively closed- loop paths, the foot resting surfaces of the first and second foot rests being continuously generally horizontal throughout traversal of the closed-loop paths.
Description
EXERCISE DEVICE AND A METHOD THEREOF
FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
This invention relates to exercise devices, and, more particularly, to elliptical trainer type devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
In developing elliptical training machine technology, one of the most important goals is to attain a range of movement that minimizes actual stress on a user's knee or ankle joint and maximizes the necessary work out. This goal can be attained by creating an artificial environment that recreates the actual horizontally level walking or running outdoors environment which places less stress on the knee joint or the ankle joint of the user while providing a lengthened horizontal path and a shortened vertical path in a rotational movement. -The problems and limitations associated with prior art elliptical training machines are well-known. A typical elliptical training machine that encompasses a pair of pedal supporting bars which is joined by two arms in the front and a crank in the rear has an elliptical rotational movement defined by combination of two separate movements. First, the two arms in the front define a reciprocating movement. Second, the crank in the rear creates a circular rotational movement. Thus, the combination of the two movements creates an orbital movement which, seen from a far, takes an oval egg-shaped path. In most elliptical machines, the ankle joint engages in dorsi flexion on the downstroke and plantar flexion on the upstroke. Studies show that excessive plantar flexion leads to transient paresthesia, a "numb toe" condition due to compression of nerves in the foot, and extreme dorsi flexion can liinit lrnee and hip extension, which are essential for a complete range of motion.
There has been atteinpts to iinprove upon the typical elliptical machine. U.S.
Pat. No.
6,991,587, U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,711, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,052,438, all to Eschenbach are directed to exercise machines which stimulate the motions ofjogging and climbing wliile maintaining less pedal articulation that is mo're "ankle friendly". However, the pedal articulation still remains troublesome as the pedal itself fails to reinain horizontal during its rotational operating movement.
For instance, FIG. 22 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,052,438 to Eschenbach discloses a device with pedals 350 and 352 supported by foot support members 354 and 356 traversing an elongate closed loop path P1. Foot support members 354, 356 are connected to guide links 358, 360 at pivots 351, 353 and connected to drive links 324, 326 at pivots 325, 327. Guide links 358, 360 are coimected to frame member 380 at pivots 355, 357.
Drive links 324, 326 are connected to crank arms 320, 322. Crank arms 320, 322 are joined as generally opposed at pivot axis 343 to form a crank. Cam guides 304, 396 are attached to frame members 376, 378. Cam contacts 329, 331 are connected to drive links 324, 326 and are engaged with cam guides 304, 396. Drive linlcs 324, 326, crank arms 320, 322 and cam guides 304, 396 form a pair of path generating linkages configured to guide the first portion of the foot support member 354, 356 along orbital path P2.
However, the foot support members 384 fail to remain horizontal as the device lacks any mechanism to negate the pendulum movement directed by pivots 351, 353.
Thus, there still remains a bit of articulation of the support members as guide members move forward and reverse.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,171,215, U.S. Pat. No. 6,949,053, U.S. Pat. No. 7,033,305, and U.S.
Pat. No. 7,041,034, all to Stearns et al., describe linlcage assemblies which lengthen the horizontal path and minimize the vertical path of the rotational path for the elliptical machine.
However, none of these references disclose a method to maintain the horizontal level of the pedal during its movement.
Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 7,041,034 to Steams et al. discloses an exercise apparatus 500 iricluding left and right linkage assemblies 450 movably mounted on a frame 520 and linlced to respective handle members 630, which are also movably mounted on the frame 520.
A forward end of the rail 400 is pivotally connected to a first trunnion 531 on a forward stanchion 530, disposed at a first elevation above a floor surface 99.
A handle member 630 has an intermediate portion 635 which is pivotally connected to a second trurmion 535 on the forward stanchion 530, disposed at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface 99. An upper, distal portion 634 of the handle member 630 is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member 480. A
lower, distal portion 636 of the handle member 630 is rotatably connected to one end of a handle link 620. An opposite end of the handle link 620 is rotatably connected to the force receiving member 480. In operation, the handle linlc 6201inlcs back and forth pivoting of the handle 430 to movement of the force receiving member 480 through the path of motion P3.
However, there is no mechanism at the front portion of the apparatus to minimize the resulting articulating movement.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
This invention relates to exercise devices, and, more particularly, to elliptical trainer type devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
In developing elliptical training machine technology, one of the most important goals is to attain a range of movement that minimizes actual stress on a user's knee or ankle joint and maximizes the necessary work out. This goal can be attained by creating an artificial environment that recreates the actual horizontally level walking or running outdoors environment which places less stress on the knee joint or the ankle joint of the user while providing a lengthened horizontal path and a shortened vertical path in a rotational movement. -The problems and limitations associated with prior art elliptical training machines are well-known. A typical elliptical training machine that encompasses a pair of pedal supporting bars which is joined by two arms in the front and a crank in the rear has an elliptical rotational movement defined by combination of two separate movements. First, the two arms in the front define a reciprocating movement. Second, the crank in the rear creates a circular rotational movement. Thus, the combination of the two movements creates an orbital movement which, seen from a far, takes an oval egg-shaped path. In most elliptical machines, the ankle joint engages in dorsi flexion on the downstroke and plantar flexion on the upstroke. Studies show that excessive plantar flexion leads to transient paresthesia, a "numb toe" condition due to compression of nerves in the foot, and extreme dorsi flexion can liinit lrnee and hip extension, which are essential for a complete range of motion.
There has been atteinpts to iinprove upon the typical elliptical machine. U.S.
Pat. No.
6,991,587, U.S. Pat. No. 7,025,711, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,052,438, all to Eschenbach are directed to exercise machines which stimulate the motions ofjogging and climbing wliile maintaining less pedal articulation that is mo're "ankle friendly". However, the pedal articulation still remains troublesome as the pedal itself fails to reinain horizontal during its rotational operating movement.
For instance, FIG. 22 of U.S. Pat. No. 7,052,438 to Eschenbach discloses a device with pedals 350 and 352 supported by foot support members 354 and 356 traversing an elongate closed loop path P1. Foot support members 354, 356 are connected to guide links 358, 360 at pivots 351, 353 and connected to drive links 324, 326 at pivots 325, 327. Guide links 358, 360 are coimected to frame member 380 at pivots 355, 357.
Drive links 324, 326 are connected to crank arms 320, 322. Crank arms 320, 322 are joined as generally opposed at pivot axis 343 to form a crank. Cam guides 304, 396 are attached to frame members 376, 378. Cam contacts 329, 331 are connected to drive links 324, 326 and are engaged with cam guides 304, 396. Drive linlcs 324, 326, crank arms 320, 322 and cam guides 304, 396 form a pair of path generating linkages configured to guide the first portion of the foot support member 354, 356 along orbital path P2.
However, the foot support members 384 fail to remain horizontal as the device lacks any mechanism to negate the pendulum movement directed by pivots 351, 353.
Thus, there still remains a bit of articulation of the support members as guide members move forward and reverse.
U.S. Pat. No. 6,171,215, U.S. Pat. No. 6,949,053, U.S. Pat. No. 7,033,305, and U.S.
Pat. No. 7,041,034, all to Stearns et al., describe linlcage assemblies which lengthen the horizontal path and minimize the vertical path of the rotational path for the elliptical machine.
However, none of these references disclose a method to maintain the horizontal level of the pedal during its movement.
Specifically, U.S. Pat. No. 7,041,034 to Steams et al. discloses an exercise apparatus 500 iricluding left and right linkage assemblies 450 movably mounted on a frame 520 and linlced to respective handle members 630, which are also movably mounted on the frame 520.
A forward end of the rail 400 is pivotally connected to a first trunnion 531 on a forward stanchion 530, disposed at a first elevation above a floor surface 99.
A handle member 630 has an intermediate portion 635 which is pivotally connected to a second trurmion 535 on the forward stanchion 530, disposed at a second, relatively greater elevation above the floor surface 99. An upper, distal portion 634 of the handle member 630 is sized and configured for grasping by a person standing on the force receiving member 480. A
lower, distal portion 636 of the handle member 630 is rotatably connected to one end of a handle link 620. An opposite end of the handle link 620 is rotatably connected to the force receiving member 480. In operation, the handle linlc 6201inlcs back and forth pivoting of the handle 430 to movement of the force receiving member 480 through the path of motion P3.
However, there is no mechanism at the front portion of the apparatus to minimize the resulting articulating movement.
US publication nuinber 2005/0245361 to Wu et al., US publication ntunber 2006/0100064 to Pan et al., and US publication number 2006/0142123 describe several different apparatuses, all directed to enhancing the rotational movement of a typical elliptical training machine.
However, none of the above references describe an improved pedal movement which achieves the benefit of eliminating the ankle articulating movement while enhancing the vertical and horizontal rotational path of the foot support meinber.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention overcomes the shortcoinings of the prior art by providing an apparatus that can maintain a horizontal pedal while lengthening the horizontal path and shortening the vertical path of the rotational operational movement of the apparatus.
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, an exercise machine is provided with a frame having a pedal link pair connected by two arms in the front and a crank mechanism in the rear. In the preferred embodiment, the crank mechanism provides for an enhanced vertical and horizontal components of the rotational movement. Further, in the preferred embodiment, the pair of pedal links provide for a compensation curvature for maintaining the horizontal leveling of the pedal while minimizing its articulation on the link itself.
Further, an exercise device is provided therein which includes a frame, a first and a second foot links, each foot linlc having a first end and a second end, the first end being movably coupled to the frame, a first and a second foot rests coupled respectively to the first and second foot links, each foot rest having a foot resting surface for supporting a foot of a user, and a rotatable meinber coupled to the frame so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis.
Further, the second end of the first foot linlc and the second end of the second foot linlc are both coupled to the rotatable member such that both the second ends are rotatable about the rotation axis. With rotation of the first and second ends about the rotation axis, the foot rests traverse respectively closed-loop paths, the foot resting surfaces of the first and second foot rests being continuously generally horizontal throughout traversal of the closed-loop paths.
These stationary devices may preferably include movable feet engaging members.
A method of using such device is also envisioned wherein the user applies force against the feet engaging members resulting in closed-loop foot motions which generally follow an elongated horizontal and shortened vertical elliptical pattern. In addition, during the movement, the feet of the user are less subject to the changing angular movement such that the heels and toes of the user move relative to each other without interference from any external force.
Additionally, an exercise apparatus is provided with a frame, a first motion provider pivotally mounted on the fiame and configured to provide a first path of motion, a second motion provider pivotally mounted on the frame and configured to provide a second path of motion, a third motion provider pivotally mounted on the first motion provider and configured to particularly enhance the first path of motion, a fourth motion provider pivotally mounted on the second motion provider and configured to particularly enhance the second path of motion, and a foot support member interconnected between the third motion provider and the fourth motion provider and configured to provide a non-articulating horizontal foot support level througllout the elliptical path of the foot support member.
However, none of the above references describe an improved pedal movement which achieves the benefit of eliminating the ankle articulating movement while enhancing the vertical and horizontal rotational path of the foot support meinber.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
The present invention overcomes the shortcoinings of the prior art by providing an apparatus that can maintain a horizontal pedal while lengthening the horizontal path and shortening the vertical path of the rotational operational movement of the apparatus.
In the preferred embodiment of the invention, an exercise machine is provided with a frame having a pedal link pair connected by two arms in the front and a crank mechanism in the rear. In the preferred embodiment, the crank mechanism provides for an enhanced vertical and horizontal components of the rotational movement. Further, in the preferred embodiment, the pair of pedal links provide for a compensation curvature for maintaining the horizontal leveling of the pedal while minimizing its articulation on the link itself.
Further, an exercise device is provided therein which includes a frame, a first and a second foot links, each foot linlc having a first end and a second end, the first end being movably coupled to the frame, a first and a second foot rests coupled respectively to the first and second foot links, each foot rest having a foot resting surface for supporting a foot of a user, and a rotatable meinber coupled to the frame so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis.
Further, the second end of the first foot linlc and the second end of the second foot linlc are both coupled to the rotatable member such that both the second ends are rotatable about the rotation axis. With rotation of the first and second ends about the rotation axis, the foot rests traverse respectively closed-loop paths, the foot resting surfaces of the first and second foot rests being continuously generally horizontal throughout traversal of the closed-loop paths.
These stationary devices may preferably include movable feet engaging members.
A method of using such device is also envisioned wherein the user applies force against the feet engaging members resulting in closed-loop foot motions which generally follow an elongated horizontal and shortened vertical elliptical pattern. In addition, during the movement, the feet of the user are less subject to the changing angular movement such that the heels and toes of the user move relative to each other without interference from any external force.
Additionally, an exercise apparatus is provided with a frame, a first motion provider pivotally mounted on the fiame and configured to provide a first path of motion, a second motion provider pivotally mounted on the frame and configured to provide a second path of motion, a third motion provider pivotally mounted on the first motion provider and configured to particularly enhance the first path of motion, a fourth motion provider pivotally mounted on the second motion provider and configured to particularly enhance the second path of motion, and a foot support member interconnected between the third motion provider and the fourth motion provider and configured to provide a non-articulating horizontal foot support level througllout the elliptical path of the foot support member.
Further, a metliod for using an elliptical device is provided wherein metliod includes providing a floor engaging fraine, movably coupling a right swinging arm and a left swinging ann on the stanchion of said frame, rotatably mounting a crank at a pivot axis of the frame, enhancing the rotation of the crank by placing an extender on the crank at a distance away from the pivot axis, counteracting the articulating effect of a right foot supporting member and a left foot supporting member movably coupled to the extender during the rotation by providing a right articulation neutralizing member and a left articulation neutralizing member between respective the swinging arm and respective the extender in such a manner that the top surface of each the rotational foot supporting member defines a respective foot path that maintains a substantially horizontal level during the rotation, and encouraging a person to place a respective foot on each the foot supporting member for movement along a respective foot path.
These and other features of the invention will be better understood througll a study of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
Figure 1 is a rear perspective view showing an exercise device formed in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a front perspective view showing the right side of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a right side elevation view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a rear view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 5 is a top elevation view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
These and other features of the invention will be better understood througll a study of the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS:
Figure 1 is a rear perspective view showing an exercise device formed in accordance with the present invention;
Figure 2 is a front perspective view showing the right side of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a right side elevation view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 4 is a rear view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 5 is a top elevation view of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 6 is a detailed right side view of a crank mechanism of the exercise device as shown in Figure 1;
Figure 7 is an exploded view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a detailed top perspective view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 9 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the top, of the cranlc mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 10 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the bottom, of the cranlc mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 11 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the bottom, of the crank mechanism including the foot support member as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 12 is a schematic view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6 at a first position;
Figure 13 is a schematic view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6 at a second position;
Figure 14 is a side view showing another embodiment of the invention with a user;
Figures 15-21 are side views of alternative foot positions of the second einbodiment as shown in Figure 14;
Figure 22 is a side elevation view showing a prior art elliptical mechanism;
and Figure 23 is a side elevation view showing another prior art elliptical mechanism.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
The elliptical exercising apparatus of the present invention is shown, according to FIGS. 1 through 5, through a preferred embodiment of an elliptical apparatus 101, having a frame body 111. The frame 111 includes a pair of swinging arms 113, 115, pivotally coupled to a stanchion 117 of the franle 111. A cranlc 121 is provided at the rear portion of the elliptical apparatus 101. Further, a pair of connection support bars or foot linlcs 131, 133 along with several otlier parts as shall be discussed below, interconnect the swinging anns 113, 115 with the cranlc 121. These foot linlcs 131, 133 generally correspond to the right and left foot of a user respectf-ully and provide the required rotational training movement for the user.
Having described the apparatus in general, the right side rotating mechanism of the apparatus shall now be described with respect to FIGS. 6 though 11. As a person skilled in the art would recognize that, although only the right side is described, the left side of the apparatus 101 also includes same or corresponding opposite parts as the right side.
As can be seen in FIGS. 6 thouglz 11, the cranlc 121 is provided at the rear section.
The crank 121, according to FIG. 6, is circular and is attached to the frame 111 (not shown in FIG. 6 or 7) and rotates about the center of the axis 125 around a center shaft 123. As can be seen by FIG. 7, the crank 121 includes a socket hole 127 at a distance Dl away from the axis 125. A shaft 129 extends through the socket hole 127 and also extends tlirough to support extension plates 161, 163 flanking a D-cam member 171 on both sides. The crank 121 is provided for example and not by limitation of any sort. A person of ordinary skill in the art will be able to configure the crank in the front section of the elliptical apparatus instead of the rear section as shown. Further, a person of ordinary skill in the art will be able to configure a pulley, instead of the cranlc, or other variations in the present invention.
The D cam member 171 is part of a multi-part D-camlfoot support mechanism which includes the foot support member 199. The first piece, the D-cain member 171 is structurally an eccentrically curved wheel with varying radii defining an eccentric surface. This D-cam member 171 is motnited on the rotating shaft 129. The D-cam member 171 is used to produce variable or reciprocating motion in an engagenient or contact with roller 173. The side surface of the D-cam member 171 provides a substantially cylindrical surface witli an eccentric distal surface portion 221 and two less eccentric side surfaces in a substantially D-shaped or V-shaped wedge member.
The roller 173 that counteracts against the side surfaces of the D-cam member, is rotatably coupled to a pair of elongated rear folding arm plates 175 that are, in turn, coupled to a pair of front folding arm plates 181, 183. In detail, the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates (or a single plate as shown in FIG. 7) 175, 175' includes three pinlloles, the first of which retains the aforementioned roller 173 with a pin. The intermediate section pinhole 177 is pivotally coupled to the intermediate section 211, 213 of a pair of link extension plates 161, 163. As mentioned above, this tliird pinhole 179 is pivotally coupled to the pinholes 191, 193 of the pair of elongated front folding arm plates 181, 183 by a pin member 195. The front folding arm plates 181, 183, in turn,-extend underneath the bottom trunnion 207 of the foot supporting member 199. These two parts are coupled by a pin member 205 being inserted into the truruzion 207 of the foot support 199 and the two holes 185 and 187.
Thus, the rear folding arm plates 175 and the frontal folding arm plates 181, 183 together form a folding hinged joint actuated by the D-cam member 171 and affecting the foot support member 199.
The foot supporting member 199 is substantially planar on its horizontal upper surface 201 and includes a pair of trunnions 207 on its bottom portion. The foot supporting member 199 also includes a roller 205 on the frontal section of the bottom side 203 which engages and counteracts against the curvature 139 provided on the support bar 133.
Figure 7 is an exploded view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 8 is a detailed top perspective view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 9 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the top, of the cranlc mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 10 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the bottom, of the cranlc mechanism as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 11 is a detailed side perspective view seen from the bottom, of the crank mechanism including the foot support member as shown in Figure 6;
Figure 12 is a schematic view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6 at a first position;
Figure 13 is a schematic view of the crank mechanism as shown in Figure 6 at a second position;
Figure 14 is a side view showing another embodiment of the invention with a user;
Figures 15-21 are side views of alternative foot positions of the second einbodiment as shown in Figure 14;
Figure 22 is a side elevation view showing a prior art elliptical mechanism;
and Figure 23 is a side elevation view showing another prior art elliptical mechanism.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
The elliptical exercising apparatus of the present invention is shown, according to FIGS. 1 through 5, through a preferred embodiment of an elliptical apparatus 101, having a frame body 111. The frame 111 includes a pair of swinging arms 113, 115, pivotally coupled to a stanchion 117 of the franle 111. A cranlc 121 is provided at the rear portion of the elliptical apparatus 101. Further, a pair of connection support bars or foot linlcs 131, 133 along with several otlier parts as shall be discussed below, interconnect the swinging anns 113, 115 with the cranlc 121. These foot linlcs 131, 133 generally correspond to the right and left foot of a user respectf-ully and provide the required rotational training movement for the user.
Having described the apparatus in general, the right side rotating mechanism of the apparatus shall now be described with respect to FIGS. 6 though 11. As a person skilled in the art would recognize that, although only the right side is described, the left side of the apparatus 101 also includes same or corresponding opposite parts as the right side.
As can be seen in FIGS. 6 thouglz 11, the cranlc 121 is provided at the rear section.
The crank 121, according to FIG. 6, is circular and is attached to the frame 111 (not shown in FIG. 6 or 7) and rotates about the center of the axis 125 around a center shaft 123. As can be seen by FIG. 7, the crank 121 includes a socket hole 127 at a distance Dl away from the axis 125. A shaft 129 extends through the socket hole 127 and also extends tlirough to support extension plates 161, 163 flanking a D-cam member 171 on both sides. The crank 121 is provided for example and not by limitation of any sort. A person of ordinary skill in the art will be able to configure the crank in the front section of the elliptical apparatus instead of the rear section as shown. Further, a person of ordinary skill in the art will be able to configure a pulley, instead of the cranlc, or other variations in the present invention.
The D cam member 171 is part of a multi-part D-camlfoot support mechanism which includes the foot support member 199. The first piece, the D-cain member 171 is structurally an eccentrically curved wheel with varying radii defining an eccentric surface. This D-cam member 171 is motnited on the rotating shaft 129. The D-cam member 171 is used to produce variable or reciprocating motion in an engagenient or contact with roller 173. The side surface of the D-cam member 171 provides a substantially cylindrical surface witli an eccentric distal surface portion 221 and two less eccentric side surfaces in a substantially D-shaped or V-shaped wedge member.
The roller 173 that counteracts against the side surfaces of the D-cam member, is rotatably coupled to a pair of elongated rear folding arm plates 175 that are, in turn, coupled to a pair of front folding arm plates 181, 183. In detail, the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates (or a single plate as shown in FIG. 7) 175, 175' includes three pinlloles, the first of which retains the aforementioned roller 173 with a pin. The intermediate section pinhole 177 is pivotally coupled to the intermediate section 211, 213 of a pair of link extension plates 161, 163. As mentioned above, this tliird pinhole 179 is pivotally coupled to the pinholes 191, 193 of the pair of elongated front folding arm plates 181, 183 by a pin member 195. The front folding arm plates 181, 183, in turn,-extend underneath the bottom trunnion 207 of the foot supporting member 199. These two parts are coupled by a pin member 205 being inserted into the truruzion 207 of the foot support 199 and the two holes 185 and 187.
Thus, the rear folding arm plates 175 and the frontal folding arm plates 181, 183 together form a folding hinged joint actuated by the D-cam member 171 and affecting the foot support member 199.
The foot supporting member 199 is substantially planar on its horizontal upper surface 201 and includes a pair of trunnions 207 on its bottom portion. The foot supporting member 199 also includes a roller 205 on the frontal section of the bottom side 203 which engages and counteracts against the curvature 139 provided on the support bar 133.
Turning now to the support bars 131,133õ as shown in FIG. 5, each foot support bar 131, 133 includes a forward section 141, 145 and a rear section 143, 147 and is substantially tubular. However, as can be fully appreciated in FIG. 3, the rear section 147 of the support bar 133 includes a certain defined curvature 139. Althougli not shown in FIG.
3, the support bar 131 also includes the defined curvature feature. As the side plan view of FIG. 6 shows, the full support bar 133, as mentioned above, has a certain defined curvature 139 which slopes downward starting from the outwardly facing end portion 165. This sloped curve changes direction and slopes upward while decreasing its sloping curvature prior to reaching the intermediate section 209 of the support bar 133. The rest of the support bar 133 runs substantially straight all the way up to the end portion 137 of the forward section 145. This curvature, combined with the D-cam member 171 mentioned above, allow the foot support member 199 to remain horizontal throughout its rotation. This is accomplished partly when the roller 205 of the foot supporting member 199 rolls along the top portion of the curvature at predetermined angles at defined positions of the rotational movement.
This curvature, of course, is described by a way of an example, and is not meant to limit any portion of the support bar 133 thereof. It is conceivable, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, that the curvature could be fixrther sloped in different configurations according to different einbodiments envisioned by this present invention. Furthermore, other means of maintaining the horizontal level of the foot supporting member 199 exist and are readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, a reciprocating member may be provided between the bottom of the swing arms and the respective support bar.
Furthermore, an anti-articulating means may be provided on the bottom of the swing arm to counter its pendulum motion.
Referring back to the other side of the support bar 133, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, a pair of linlc couplers or trunnions 135, 137 is provided at the end of the frontal section 141, 145. By the way of an example, and not by way of limiting in any sense, each of the link couplers or truiuiions 135, 137 may be provided by a thin strip of metallic plate wrapped around the tubular end of the frontal section 141, 145. The trunnions 135, 137 include two gudgeon-type ends 155, 157 which form the hinged axle so that the support bars 131, 133 are rotatably attached to the bottom portion of the swing arms 113, 115.
As shown in FIGS. 7, 9, and 10, a pair of outwardly facing rear link couplers 165, 165' is provided at the end of the rear section 147 on the support link or comiection bar 133.
By way of an example, and not by limitation in any sense, two separate thin extension plates 161, 163, flank this pair of rear link couplers 165, 165'. The extension plates 161, 163 are rotatably attached to the outwardly facing end portion 165, 165' to provide additional flexibility to the support bar 131, 133 and also to allow movement of other parts between the plates 161 and 163. Each link extension 161, 163, has a substantially flat, relatively thin, elongated rigid body of uniform thickness and includes distal ends with socket holes 215, 217 on one side, 219, 219' (hidden from view) on the other side, and pin holes 211, 213 in its intermediate section. As mentioned above, these pin holes 211, 213 acconlmodate a pin rotatably coupling the intermediate pinhole 177 of the rear folding arm plate 175. The socket holes 219, 219' on the end closer to the rear section 149 of the support bar 133 rotatably interact with the outwardly facing end rear link couplers 165, 165' and may also include a pivoting pin to allow pivoting of the extension plates 161, 163. The other socket holes 215, 217 on the other distal end accommodate a shaft 129 that also penetrates the hole 223 of the D-shaped cam ineinber 171 as well as the socket hole 127 provided on the crank 121 at a distance Dl away from the center axis 125 as mentioned above.
Having described each part of the exercising apparatus, the movemeilt of the D-cam melnber along with the foot supporting member 199 with respect to FIGS. 12 and 13 will now be described in fiirther detail. FIG. 12 shows the D-cam member 171 rotated to a topmost position on the crank 121. At this position, the thickest portion 221 of the D-cam member 171 faces away from the foot support member 199 with respect to the socket hole 127, allowing the pair of elongated frontal folding arm plates 175, and the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates 181, 183 to unfold and extend outward, thereby providing an extended horizontal distance for the foot support member 199. Because of the eccentricity defined by the cam shape, the reciprocating motion of the roller 173 allows the longitudinal portion of the rear folding arm plates 175 to fold against the front folding arm plates 181, 183, shorteiiing the overall length of distance between the cam member and the foot support 199.
This in turn, causes the foot support member 199 to rise and put a greater distance between itself and the surface of the foot link 133, maintaining the horizontal position of the foot supporting meinber 199. Siunultaneously, a vertical distance d4 between the bottom of the foot support member 199 with respect to the upper surface of the curvature is defined at this position.
As the cranlc 121 rotates, the D-cam member 171 will rotate to the lowest position on the crank 121, as shown in FIG. 13. At this position, the D-cam member's thickest eccentric portion 221 will be facing toward the foot support member 199. The eccentric portion 221 will force the roller 173 to move away from the D-cam 171, forcing the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates to fold against the pair of frontal folding arm plates such that a reduced distance is maintained while the roller member 173 rolls on top of the curvature at a section with an angle that allows the top surface of the foot support member 199 to remain horizontal. Simultaneously, a vertical distance d2 between the bottom of the foot support member 199 with respect to the upper surface of the curvature is defined at this position.
Thus, by the usage of the eccentricity of the D-cam meinber 171 and the eccentricity of a corresponding D-cam member on the left side, along with the curvature of the support bars 131, 133, a relationship between the top foot resting surface 201 of the foot supporting ineinber 199 (and the corresponding foot supporting member on the left side) and the vertical distance from its support bars 131, 133 can be maintained. Thus, the foot supporting member 199 remains in a horizontal position through its movement and it covers a shorter vertical and a longer horizontal path.
The exercise device 101 with respect to the above embodiment, is not the only means to achieve the current invention. The invention also includes other ways such to provide a guide mechanism which is connected either directly or indirectly to the foot link or footrest supporting member and provides a vertical support to maintain a steady horizontal position throughout. In addition, the exercise device 101 may optionally include additional features, such as an adjustable means for resisting rotation of the rotatable member 121. With such means, difficulty in using the exercise device 101 may be increased or decreased with a more or less strenuous worlcout being achieved.
Having described a preferred embodiment of the invention, another preferred embodiment shall now be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 depicts another exercise device 102 having a stationary frame 112. The frame 112 includes one or more supports 114 adapted for resting on a floor or other surface and providing a stable support for the exercise device 102. Cushions may be provided to protect the floor or otlier surface from damage by the supports 114. Also, one or more wheels may be optionally provided for transportation and mobility of the exercise device 102.
First and second foot lii-Acs 116, 118 are also provided corresponding to the riglit foot and left foot of a user, respectively. The first ends 120 of the first and second foot links 116, 118 are movably coupled to the frame 112 so as to allow the first ends 120 to move relative to the frame 112. Any fornz of movable coupling may be used. By way of non-limiting example, a swing arm 122 may be coupled to each of the first ends 120 and further coupled to the frame 112, such as by a pivot connection 124. With this arrangement, the swing arms 122 may pivot about the pivot connections 124 and allow the first'ends 120 to move. To enable exercise of a user's arms, the swing arms 122 may extend upwardly beyond the pivot connections 124 to have hand engaging portions 126 which are also movable. A
user may grippingly engage the hand engaging portions 126 during use of the exercise device 102, with the user's arms being moved and exercised. In addition, a fixed post or handle may extend from the frame 112 to be grippingly engaged by a user as a stationary support for the user's arms.
First and second foot rests 128, 130 are coupled respectively to the first and second foot links 116, 118. The first and second foot rests 128, 130 can be formed of any known material, including rubber for impact absorption or a spring member or a rubber to adjust to a person's foot motion. It is preferred that the first and second foot rests 128, 130 be movably coupled to the first and second foot liiilcs 116 and 118. Any known form of coupling maybe used. By way of non-limiting example, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may each be pivotably mounted to a fixed foot rest support 132 extending from each of the first and second linlcs 128, 130. In this manner, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may be positionally adjustable relative to the first and second foot linlcs 116, 118, respectively.
Alternatively, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may be fixed respectively to the foot rest supports 132 by swing-type cormections. Iiz either regard, adjustment of the first and second foot rests 128, 130 relative to the first and second foot links 116, 118 in two coordinate directions is preferred.
Each of the foot'rests 128, 130 includes a foot resting surface 150 configured to support a foot of a user of the exercise device 110. The foot resting surfaces 150 may be generally planar, but other configurations may be utilized (e.g., having treads; convex;
concave; etc.).
A rotatable member 134 is coupled to the fraine 112 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 136. The rotatable member 134 can be one or more disc-shaped members or elongated meinbers. Second ends 138 of the first and second foot links 116, 118 are coupled to the rotatable member 134 such that both the second ends 138 are rotatable about the rotation axis 136.
In use, with the application of force by a user through the first and second foot rests 128, 130, movement of the first and second foot links 116, 118 is caused with the second ends 138 thereof rotating about the rotation axis 136. In addition, the first ends 120 also move. With the subject invention, the foot resting surfaces 150 of the first and second foot rests 128, 130 remain continuously generally horizontal through all sequence of motion.
With reference to Figures 14-21, the first and second foot rests 128 and 130 are shown in various positions. The first and second foot rests 128 and 130 traverse closed-loop patlis during use. For illustration, and with specific reference to the first foot rest 128, Figure 14 shows the first foot rest 128 being generally in its lowest position; from Figure 15 through Figure 21, different positions of the first foot rest 128 are shown, with the first foot rest 128 moving in a clockwise direction. In all positions, the foot resting surface 150 of the first foot rest 128 remains continuously generally horizontal. The foot resting surface 150 of the second foot rest 130 has the same motion as the first foot rest 128 and remains continuously generally horizontal throughout its motion. The horizontal orientation of the foot rests 128 may be achieved by pivotally attaching the foot rests 128 and providing a mechanical linkage to the flywheel or other components of the machine. Similarly, a cradle-type mounted foot rest may be maintained on the horizontal via a mechanical linkage. Other devices for influencing the motion of a mounted foot rest include the use of camming surfaces that engage linkages or the foot linlcs.
The particularly preferred disclosed embodiments and practices are intended in a descriptive sense and are not limiting. The scope of the invention is set forth in the following claims.
3, the support bar 131 also includes the defined curvature feature. As the side plan view of FIG. 6 shows, the full support bar 133, as mentioned above, has a certain defined curvature 139 which slopes downward starting from the outwardly facing end portion 165. This sloped curve changes direction and slopes upward while decreasing its sloping curvature prior to reaching the intermediate section 209 of the support bar 133. The rest of the support bar 133 runs substantially straight all the way up to the end portion 137 of the forward section 145. This curvature, combined with the D-cam member 171 mentioned above, allow the foot support member 199 to remain horizontal throughout its rotation. This is accomplished partly when the roller 205 of the foot supporting member 199 rolls along the top portion of the curvature at predetermined angles at defined positions of the rotational movement.
This curvature, of course, is described by a way of an example, and is not meant to limit any portion of the support bar 133 thereof. It is conceivable, to a person of ordinary skill in the art, that the curvature could be fixrther sloped in different configurations according to different einbodiments envisioned by this present invention. Furthermore, other means of maintaining the horizontal level of the foot supporting member 199 exist and are readily available to a person of ordinary skill in the art. For example, a reciprocating member may be provided between the bottom of the swing arms and the respective support bar.
Furthermore, an anti-articulating means may be provided on the bottom of the swing arm to counter its pendulum motion.
Referring back to the other side of the support bar 133, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2, a pair of linlc couplers or trunnions 135, 137 is provided at the end of the frontal section 141, 145. By the way of an example, and not by way of limiting in any sense, each of the link couplers or truiuiions 135, 137 may be provided by a thin strip of metallic plate wrapped around the tubular end of the frontal section 141, 145. The trunnions 135, 137 include two gudgeon-type ends 155, 157 which form the hinged axle so that the support bars 131, 133 are rotatably attached to the bottom portion of the swing arms 113, 115.
As shown in FIGS. 7, 9, and 10, a pair of outwardly facing rear link couplers 165, 165' is provided at the end of the rear section 147 on the support link or comiection bar 133.
By way of an example, and not by limitation in any sense, two separate thin extension plates 161, 163, flank this pair of rear link couplers 165, 165'. The extension plates 161, 163 are rotatably attached to the outwardly facing end portion 165, 165' to provide additional flexibility to the support bar 131, 133 and also to allow movement of other parts between the plates 161 and 163. Each link extension 161, 163, has a substantially flat, relatively thin, elongated rigid body of uniform thickness and includes distal ends with socket holes 215, 217 on one side, 219, 219' (hidden from view) on the other side, and pin holes 211, 213 in its intermediate section. As mentioned above, these pin holes 211, 213 acconlmodate a pin rotatably coupling the intermediate pinhole 177 of the rear folding arm plate 175. The socket holes 219, 219' on the end closer to the rear section 149 of the support bar 133 rotatably interact with the outwardly facing end rear link couplers 165, 165' and may also include a pivoting pin to allow pivoting of the extension plates 161, 163. The other socket holes 215, 217 on the other distal end accommodate a shaft 129 that also penetrates the hole 223 of the D-shaped cam ineinber 171 as well as the socket hole 127 provided on the crank 121 at a distance Dl away from the center axis 125 as mentioned above.
Having described each part of the exercising apparatus, the movemeilt of the D-cam melnber along with the foot supporting member 199 with respect to FIGS. 12 and 13 will now be described in fiirther detail. FIG. 12 shows the D-cam member 171 rotated to a topmost position on the crank 121. At this position, the thickest portion 221 of the D-cam member 171 faces away from the foot support member 199 with respect to the socket hole 127, allowing the pair of elongated frontal folding arm plates 175, and the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates 181, 183 to unfold and extend outward, thereby providing an extended horizontal distance for the foot support member 199. Because of the eccentricity defined by the cam shape, the reciprocating motion of the roller 173 allows the longitudinal portion of the rear folding arm plates 175 to fold against the front folding arm plates 181, 183, shorteiiing the overall length of distance between the cam member and the foot support 199.
This in turn, causes the foot support member 199 to rise and put a greater distance between itself and the surface of the foot link 133, maintaining the horizontal position of the foot supporting meinber 199. Siunultaneously, a vertical distance d4 between the bottom of the foot support member 199 with respect to the upper surface of the curvature is defined at this position.
As the cranlc 121 rotates, the D-cam member 171 will rotate to the lowest position on the crank 121, as shown in FIG. 13. At this position, the D-cam member's thickest eccentric portion 221 will be facing toward the foot support member 199. The eccentric portion 221 will force the roller 173 to move away from the D-cam 171, forcing the pair of elongated rear folding arm plates to fold against the pair of frontal folding arm plates such that a reduced distance is maintained while the roller member 173 rolls on top of the curvature at a section with an angle that allows the top surface of the foot support member 199 to remain horizontal. Simultaneously, a vertical distance d2 between the bottom of the foot support member 199 with respect to the upper surface of the curvature is defined at this position.
Thus, by the usage of the eccentricity of the D-cam meinber 171 and the eccentricity of a corresponding D-cam member on the left side, along with the curvature of the support bars 131, 133, a relationship between the top foot resting surface 201 of the foot supporting ineinber 199 (and the corresponding foot supporting member on the left side) and the vertical distance from its support bars 131, 133 can be maintained. Thus, the foot supporting member 199 remains in a horizontal position through its movement and it covers a shorter vertical and a longer horizontal path.
The exercise device 101 with respect to the above embodiment, is not the only means to achieve the current invention. The invention also includes other ways such to provide a guide mechanism which is connected either directly or indirectly to the foot link or footrest supporting member and provides a vertical support to maintain a steady horizontal position throughout. In addition, the exercise device 101 may optionally include additional features, such as an adjustable means for resisting rotation of the rotatable member 121. With such means, difficulty in using the exercise device 101 may be increased or decreased with a more or less strenuous worlcout being achieved.
Having described a preferred embodiment of the invention, another preferred embodiment shall now be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 depicts another exercise device 102 having a stationary frame 112. The frame 112 includes one or more supports 114 adapted for resting on a floor or other surface and providing a stable support for the exercise device 102. Cushions may be provided to protect the floor or otlier surface from damage by the supports 114. Also, one or more wheels may be optionally provided for transportation and mobility of the exercise device 102.
First and second foot lii-Acs 116, 118 are also provided corresponding to the riglit foot and left foot of a user, respectively. The first ends 120 of the first and second foot links 116, 118 are movably coupled to the frame 112 so as to allow the first ends 120 to move relative to the frame 112. Any fornz of movable coupling may be used. By way of non-limiting example, a swing arm 122 may be coupled to each of the first ends 120 and further coupled to the frame 112, such as by a pivot connection 124. With this arrangement, the swing arms 122 may pivot about the pivot connections 124 and allow the first'ends 120 to move. To enable exercise of a user's arms, the swing arms 122 may extend upwardly beyond the pivot connections 124 to have hand engaging portions 126 which are also movable. A
user may grippingly engage the hand engaging portions 126 during use of the exercise device 102, with the user's arms being moved and exercised. In addition, a fixed post or handle may extend from the frame 112 to be grippingly engaged by a user as a stationary support for the user's arms.
First and second foot rests 128, 130 are coupled respectively to the first and second foot links 116, 118. The first and second foot rests 128, 130 can be formed of any known material, including rubber for impact absorption or a spring member or a rubber to adjust to a person's foot motion. It is preferred that the first and second foot rests 128, 130 be movably coupled to the first and second foot liiilcs 116 and 118. Any known form of coupling maybe used. By way of non-limiting example, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may each be pivotably mounted to a fixed foot rest support 132 extending from each of the first and second linlcs 128, 130. In this manner, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may be positionally adjustable relative to the first and second foot linlcs 116, 118, respectively.
Alternatively, the first and second foot rests 128, 130 may be fixed respectively to the foot rest supports 132 by swing-type cormections. Iiz either regard, adjustment of the first and second foot rests 128, 130 relative to the first and second foot links 116, 118 in two coordinate directions is preferred.
Each of the foot'rests 128, 130 includes a foot resting surface 150 configured to support a foot of a user of the exercise device 110. The foot resting surfaces 150 may be generally planar, but other configurations may be utilized (e.g., having treads; convex;
concave; etc.).
A rotatable member 134 is coupled to the fraine 112 so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis 136. The rotatable member 134 can be one or more disc-shaped members or elongated meinbers. Second ends 138 of the first and second foot links 116, 118 are coupled to the rotatable member 134 such that both the second ends 138 are rotatable about the rotation axis 136.
In use, with the application of force by a user through the first and second foot rests 128, 130, movement of the first and second foot links 116, 118 is caused with the second ends 138 thereof rotating about the rotation axis 136. In addition, the first ends 120 also move. With the subject invention, the foot resting surfaces 150 of the first and second foot rests 128, 130 remain continuously generally horizontal through all sequence of motion.
With reference to Figures 14-21, the first and second foot rests 128 and 130 are shown in various positions. The first and second foot rests 128 and 130 traverse closed-loop patlis during use. For illustration, and with specific reference to the first foot rest 128, Figure 14 shows the first foot rest 128 being generally in its lowest position; from Figure 15 through Figure 21, different positions of the first foot rest 128 are shown, with the first foot rest 128 moving in a clockwise direction. In all positions, the foot resting surface 150 of the first foot rest 128 remains continuously generally horizontal. The foot resting surface 150 of the second foot rest 130 has the same motion as the first foot rest 128 and remains continuously generally horizontal throughout its motion. The horizontal orientation of the foot rests 128 may be achieved by pivotally attaching the foot rests 128 and providing a mechanical linkage to the flywheel or other components of the machine. Similarly, a cradle-type mounted foot rest may be maintained on the horizontal via a mechanical linkage. Other devices for influencing the motion of a mounted foot rest include the use of camming surfaces that engage linkages or the foot linlcs.
The particularly preferred disclosed embodiments and practices are intended in a descriptive sense and are not limiting. The scope of the invention is set forth in the following claims.
Claims (28)
1. An exercise device comprising:
a frame;
first and second foot links, each said foot link having a first end and a second end, said first end being movably coupled to said frame;
first and second foot rests respectively on said first and second foot links, each said foot rest having a foot resting surface for supporting a foot of a user; and a rotatable member coupled to said frame so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein said second end of said first foot link and said second end of said second foot link are both coupled to said rotatable member such that both said second ends are rotatable about said rotation axis;
wherein, with rotation of said first and second said ends about said rotation axis, said foot rests traverse respectively closed-loop paths, said foot resting surfaces of said first and second foot rests being continuously generally horizontal throughout traversal of said closed-loop paths.
a frame;
first and second foot links, each said foot link having a first end and a second end, said first end being movably coupled to said frame;
first and second foot rests respectively on said first and second foot links, each said foot rest having a foot resting surface for supporting a foot of a user; and a rotatable member coupled to said frame so as to be rotatable about a rotation axis, wherein said second end of said first foot link and said second end of said second foot link are both coupled to said rotatable member such that both said second ends are rotatable about said rotation axis;
wherein, with rotation of said first and second said ends about said rotation axis, said foot rests traverse respectively closed-loop paths, said foot resting surfaces of said first and second foot rests being continuously generally horizontal throughout traversal of said closed-loop paths.
2. An exercise device according to claim 1, wherein one of said first and second foot links further includes a counterbalancing structure to compensate for the articulation of said foot resting surface.
3. An exercise device according to claim 1, wherein said first and second foot rests are movably coupled respectively to said first and second foot links.
4. An exercise device according to claim 1, further comprising:
first and second swing arms coupled respectively to said first ends of said first and second foot links and to said frame.
first and second swing arms coupled respectively to said first ends of said first and second foot links and to said frame.
5. An exercise device as in claim 1, wherein said foot resting surfaces being each generally planar.
6. An exercise device as in claim 1, further comprising means for causing adjustable resistance against rotation of said rotatable member.
7. An exercise apparatus, comprising:
a frame;
a first motion provider pivotally mounted on said frame and configured to provide a first path of motion;
a second motion provider pivotally mounted on said frame and configured to provide a second path of motion;
a third motion provider pivotally mounted on said first motion provider and configured to particularly enhance said first path of motion;
a fourth motion provider pivotally mounted on said second motion provider and configured to particularly enhance said second path of motion; and a foot support member interconnected between said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider and configured to provide a non-articulating horizontal foot support level throughout the elliptical path of said foot support member.
a frame;
a first motion provider pivotally mounted on said frame and configured to provide a first path of motion;
a second motion provider pivotally mounted on said frame and configured to provide a second path of motion;
a third motion provider pivotally mounted on said first motion provider and configured to particularly enhance said first path of motion;
a fourth motion provider pivotally mounted on said second motion provider and configured to particularly enhance said second path of motion; and a foot support member interconnected between said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider and configured to provide a non-articulating horizontal foot support level throughout the elliptical path of said foot support member.
8. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider is a set of swing arms and other of said first motion provider and said second motion provider is a crank.
9. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a D-Cam provided on one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider and configured to enhance the rotational motion of said foot support member.
10. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a support connection bar coupled to one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider and having a curvature that maintains the horizontal level for the top surface of said foot support member.
11. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising:
a support connection bar movably coupled to one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a linkage configured to maintain the horizontal level for the surface of said foot member.
a support connection bar movably coupled to one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a linkage configured to maintain the horizontal level for the surface of said foot member.
12. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is an extension coupled to one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider and having an anti-articulation mechanism that maintains the horizontal level for the top surface of said foot support member.
13. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider is a support connection bar pivotally coupled directly to said frame and having a curvature that maintains the horizontal level for the top surface of said foot support member.
14. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a D-cam member coupled to one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider and one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider is a pulley located on the forward portion of the frame.
15. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein one of said third motion provider and said fourth motion provider is a support connection bar coupled to one of said first motion provider and said second motion provider and having a curvature that increases the vertical path and decreases the horizontal path of the rotation.
16. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising:
an adjustable means for varying the rotation of said foot support member.
an adjustable means for varying the rotation of said foot support member.
17. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising:
an adjustable means for resisting rotation of said crank.
an adjustable means for resisting rotation of said crank.
18. A method of providing an exercise apparatus, comprising the steps of:
providing a floor engaging frame;
movably coupling a right swinging arm and a left swinging arm on the stanchion of said frame;
rotatably mounting a crank at a pivot axis of said frame;
enhancing the rotation of said crank by placing an extender on said crank at a distance away from said pivot axis; and counteracting the articulating effect of a right foot supporting member and a left foot supporting member movably coupled to said extender during the rotation by providing a right articulation neutralizing member and a left articulation neutralizing member between respective said swinging arm and respective said extender in such a manner that the top surface of each said rotational foot supporting member defines a respective foot path that maintains a substantially horizontal level during the rotation.
providing a floor engaging frame;
movably coupling a right swinging arm and a left swinging arm on the stanchion of said frame;
rotatably mounting a crank at a pivot axis of said frame;
enhancing the rotation of said crank by placing an extender on said crank at a distance away from said pivot axis; and counteracting the articulating effect of a right foot supporting member and a left foot supporting member movably coupled to said extender during the rotation by providing a right articulation neutralizing member and a left articulation neutralizing member between respective said swinging arm and respective said extender in such a manner that the top surface of each said rotational foot supporting member defines a respective foot path that maintains a substantially horizontal level during the rotation.
19. A method according to claim 18, further comprising:
an adjustable means for varying the resisting force of crank.
an adjustable means for varying the resisting force of crank.
20. A method according to claim 18, further comprising the step of:
selectively adjusting the foot path defined by each said foot supporting member by selectively moving an adjustable mechanism relative to said frame.
selectively adjusting the foot path defined by each said foot supporting member by selectively moving an adjustable mechanism relative to said frame.
21. An elliptical exercise machine comprising:
a floor engaging frame with a stanchion;
a pair of swinging arms movably coupled to said stanchion and defining a reciprocal path;
a crank rotatably mounted at a pivot axis of said frame and defining a rotational path;
a pair of rotational path enhancing extenders rotatably mounted on both sides of said crank at a distance away from said pivot axis and defining an enhanced rotational path;
a pair of foot supporting members with respective top surfaces, movably interconnected between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders; and a pair of articulation neutralizing members provided between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders to counterbalance the articulating effect on the top surfaces at various positions around said enhanced rotational path in such a manner that the top surfaces maintain a substantially horizontal level.
a floor engaging frame with a stanchion;
a pair of swinging arms movably coupled to said stanchion and defining a reciprocal path;
a crank rotatably mounted at a pivot axis of said frame and defining a rotational path;
a pair of rotational path enhancing extenders rotatably mounted on both sides of said crank at a distance away from said pivot axis and defining an enhanced rotational path;
a pair of foot supporting members with respective top surfaces, movably interconnected between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders; and a pair of articulation neutralizing members provided between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders to counterbalance the articulating effect on the top surfaces at various positions around said enhanced rotational path in such a manner that the top surfaces maintain a substantially horizontal level.
22. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, further comprising a pair of supporting bars interconnected between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders, wherein said pair of articulation neutralizing members are curvatures provided on said pair of supporting bars.
23. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, further comprising a pair of supporting bars interconnected between said pair of swinging arms and said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders, wherein said pair of articulation neutralizing members are interconnected between said pair of supporting bars and said pair of swinging arms.
24. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, wherein said pair of rotational path enhancing extenders are D-Cam members.
25. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, wherein said pair of articulation neutralizing members are movable features provided on said pair of swinging arms.
26. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 24, wherein said D-Cam members include eccentric surfaces which increase the vertical path and decreases the horizontal path of the rotation.
27. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, further comprising:
an adjustable means for varying the rotational height of the top surfaces.
an adjustable means for varying the rotational height of the top surfaces.
28. An elliptical exercise machine according to claim 21, further comprising:
an adjustable means for resisting rotation of said crank.
an adjustable means for resisting rotation of said crank.
Applications Claiming Priority (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US71727305P | 2005-09-15 | 2005-09-15 | |
| US60/717,273 | 2005-09-15 | ||
| US81641706P | 2006-06-26 | 2006-06-26 | |
| US60/816,417 | 2006-06-26 | ||
| PCT/US2006/036017 WO2007035477A1 (en) | 2005-09-15 | 2006-09-15 | Exercise device and a method thereof |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2621028A1 true CA2621028A1 (en) | 2007-03-29 |
Family
ID=37889137
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002621028A Abandoned CA2621028A1 (en) | 2005-09-15 | 2006-09-15 | Exercise device and a method thereof |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2621028A1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2007035477A1 (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9108081B2 (en) | 2001-11-13 | 2015-08-18 | Cybex International, Inc. | Exercise apparatus |
Family Cites Families (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US5803871A (en) * | 1997-04-24 | 1998-09-08 | Stearns; Kenneth W. | Exercise methods and apparatus |
| US6846272B2 (en) * | 1999-06-15 | 2005-01-25 | Brunswick Corporation | Elliptical step exercise apparatus |
| TW543464U (en) * | 2002-06-21 | 2003-07-21 | Johnson Health Tech Co Ltd | Oval exercise device with adjustable stroke |
-
2006
- 2006-09-15 WO PCT/US2006/036017 patent/WO2007035477A1/en active Application Filing
- 2006-09-15 CA CA002621028A patent/CA2621028A1/en not_active Abandoned
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO2007035477A1 (en) | 2007-03-29 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |