ES2343531T3 - PENDULAR DEVICE FOR EXERCISE. - Google Patents

Abstract

An exercise apparatus comprising: a frame configured such that at least a portion of the apparatus remains substantially stationary during use; a crank system coupled to the frame, wherein the crank system comprises one or more crank members; a pivotal linkage pendulum system comprising one or more link members, wherein an upper pivot point of at least one of the link members is coupled to the crank system, and wherein the upper pivot point of the link member is configured to move in a path during use; a foot member coupled to one or more of the link members, wherein the foot member comprises a footpad, wherein a distance between the footpad and the upper pivot point of the link member configured to move in the closed path is greater than about 2 feet and less than about 5 feet; and a brake/inertia device is coupled to the crank system.

Description

Pendular device for walking exercise.

Background

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1. Field of the invention

The present invention relates, in general, to an exercise apparatus. Certain embodiments refer to an exercise apparatus that can allow exercises such as simulation of walking, striding (striding), jogging (running at moderate speed) and / or climbing stairs.

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2. Description of the related technique

Exercise devices have been used for years. Some typical exercise devices that simulate walking, jogging or climbing stairs include cross-country skiing machines, stair climbing machines, elliptical motion machines and pendulum motion machines.

In many exercise equipment, the user's foot is obliged during the exercise to follow patterns that may not accurately represent the typical path and / or position of a foot while walking and / or jogging . For example, cross-country skiing machines may not always allow the user to lift the front part of the foot above a flat level defined by the top of the foot pedal or base. Elliptical machines can provide an inertia that helps change the directions of the foot pedals, which can make the exercise smoother and more comfortable. However, elliptical machines can force a user's foot to follow the mechanically defined elliptical path of the foot bases or foot pedals. The elliptical path may be too long for lower users or too short for higher users. Therefore, an elliptical device may not suit a variety of users. In addition, a jogging stride is longer than a stride when walking, so an apparatus with fixed stride length may not optimally simulate several different types of physical exercise activities.

The apparatus for exercising pendular movement can allow a variable stride length. The user's feet, however, may be required to follow the same arched path in the movement both forward and backward. Such a movement may not accurately simulate a movement when walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs.

Some devices for exercising Pendulum movement can have a fixed pendulum length. A fixed pendulum length may not allow you to lift your foot or a vertical amplitude in the movement of the foot, and therefore, cannot provide a foot movement that adapts naturally. Other devices for exercising pendular motion can have relatively short pendular lengths that cannot adapt properly to the path of movement of the foot or the legs of the human body.

Reference is made to the US patent 6,083,143, which discloses an exercise machine that comprises a frame, an eccentric raceway ring supported together by the frame, a movement bar from which an upper pivot point is coupled to the raceway ring eccentric, a housing element for the foot attached to the bar of movement, such that a user can move the element of accommodation for the foot forward and backward in one direction generally horizontal while the user's foot moves in a closed path of fixed geometry, making the ring  eccentric tread experience full revolutions and the upper pivot point move in a circular path in use, and a flywheel coupled to the eccentric raceway for turn as the eccentric raceway rotates.

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Summary

According to the invention, an apparatus is provided for exercise, comprising: a frame configured of such so that at least a part of the apparatus remains substantially stationary during use; a crank system coupled to frame, where the crank system comprises one or more crank elements; a pendular system of pivoting linkage comprising one or more linkage elements and a mobile element coupled to the one or more linkage elements, where a point of upper pivot of at least one of the linkage elements, linkage element that acts as a pendulum, is coupled to the crank system through a mobile element, and where the upper pivot point of the linkage element is configured to move on a path during use and is coupled to a part of the moving element, the part being configured to move in a forward and backward movement path; a foot element coupled to a lower pivot point of one or more of the linkage elements, where the element for the foot comprises a base for the foot, where a trajectory of foot base movement comprises at least certain vertical amplitude, where a horizontal amplitude of the movement path of the foot base is controlled by a user and is determined by an amount of force applied by a user to the base for the foot, where a vertical amplitude of the Footpath movement path is controlled by a vertical amplitude of the pivot point path upper, where the distance between the base for the foot and the upper pivot point of the linkage element configured for moving in the closed path is greater than 1 foot (0.30 m); Y a brake / inertia device coupled to the crank system.

An exercise apparatus to be described includes a frame. The frame includes at least one part that remains substantially stationary during use. A crank system is coupled to the frame. The crank system includes one or more crank elements. A brake / inertia device is coupled to the crank system. The exercise apparatus includes a pendular system of pivoting linkage. The pendular system of pivoting linkage is coupled to the crank system. A pendular system of pivoting linkage includes one or more linkage elements. An upper pivot point of a linkage element is coupled to the system of
crank.

The upper pivot point of the element of linkage is coupled to the crank system through a mobile element. The upper pivot point of the element of linkage moves on a path during use. An element for the foot is coupled to at least one of the elements of linkage In some embodiments, the foot element may be coupled to a lower pivot point of at least one of the linkage elements The foot element may include a foot base.

The pendular system of pivoting linkage It includes a mobile element. The mobile element is coupled to one or more linkage elements. An upper pivot point of at least one of the linkage elements is coupled to a part of the mobile element. In certain embodiments, the pivot point top of at least one of the linkage elements is in a upper end of the linkage element. The element part mobile moves in a forward motion path and backward. In some embodiments, the mobile element part It can move in a closed motion path.

In one embodiment, a mobile element is coupled to and at least partially supported by the frame in or near a first end of the moving element. The mobile element it can be coupled to and at least partially supported by the crank system at or near a second end of the element mobile. The part of the mobile element coupled to the pivot point top of the at least one of the linkage elements may be between the first end and the second end of the mobile element. In some embodiments, the part of the mobile element coupled to the upper pivot point of at least one of the elements of linkage is near the second end of the moving element.

In certain embodiments, a point of upper pivot of at least one of the linkage elements can be coupled to the crank system such that the point of upper pivot of the linkage element moves in a closed path. An element for the foot is coupled to one or more of the linkage elements. Foot element includes a base for the foot. In certain embodiments, most of a path of movement of the base for the foot is by below the closed path. In some embodiments, substantially the entire movement path of the base for the Foot is below the closed path.

In certain embodiments, the distance between a base for the foot and an upper pivot point of a linkage element that moves along a path (for example, a closed path or a path forward and towards back) is at least about 3 times the length of at least A crank element. In some embodiments, the distance between a base for the foot and an upper pivot point of a linkage element that moves along a path (for example, a closed path or a path forward and towards back) is at least about 3 times a vertical amplitude of a path of movement of the base for the foot. In certain embodiments, the hip of most users of the apparatus is located near at least a part of the path of movement of an upper pivot point of an element of linkage

In certain embodiments, most of the trajectory of an upper pivot point of an element of linkage is located in front of a plane of the base for the foot when the base for the foot is at the center of its trajectory of movement. The plane of the base for the foot can be located in the center of a foot base. In certain embodiments, most of a crank system is located opposite a plane of the foot base when the foot base is in The center of your movement path. In some embodiments, most of the crank system is located near a plane of the foot base when the foot base It is at the center of its movement path. In some embodiments, most of the crank system is located behind a plane of the base for the foot when the base for the Foot is at the center of its movement path.

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Brief description of the drawings

Advantages of the present invention will result evident to those skilled in the art thanks to the following detailed description, given by way of example, and with reference to the attached drawings, in which:

Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of a human leg that moves in a movement of walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs.

Figure 1A depicts embodiments of footpaths of a user who moves in a movement of walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs.

Figure 2 represents an embodiment of a linkage system with a relatively long pendular length compared to a crank radius.

Figure 3 represents an embodiment of a linkage system with a relatively short pendular length compared to a crank radius.

Figure 4 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 5 represents a path that can follow a user's foot during the exercise using a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 6 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 7 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 8 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 9 represents a top view of an embodiment of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 10 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 10A represents a side view of an embodiment of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 11 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 11A represents a side view of an embodiment of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 12 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 13 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 14 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 15 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 16 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 16A depicts a side view of an embodiment of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 17 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 18 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 19 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus.

Figure 20 represents examples of realizations of forward and forward motion paths behind.

Figure 21 represents examples of realizations of closed trajectories of movement.

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Although the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms within the scope of the appended claims, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and can be described herein in detail. The drawings may not be to scale. It is to be understood, however, that the drawings and the detailed description thereof are not intended to limit the invention to the particular form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the intention is to cover all the modifications, equivalents and alternatives that enter within the scope of the present invention as defined in the claims
attached.

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Detailed description

In the context of this patent, the term "coupled" means either a direct connection or an indirect connection, (for example, one or more intermediate connections) between one or more objects or components. The expression "directly linked" means a direct connection between objects or components. The term "support" means that a first element, directly or indirectly, places or places a second element by pushing or pulling the second element. The first element may be directly attached or coupled to the second element when providing support. The first element can be compressed while pushing or pulling while pulling the second
element.

The term "trajectory" means any type of path that an object can follow (for example, a foot, a base for the foot, a linkage element, a moving element or a coupling) or a point in space during the movement. For example, a trajectory can include a closed path or a path forward and towards behind.

A "forward motion path and backward "means a movement along a line Curved or straight with two end points. Forward movement and backwards it moves along the same line but in opposite senses. Forward and backward movement can be a substantially horizontal movement, a movement substantially vertical or a combination of horizontal movement and vertical movement. Examples of movement paths to front and back are represented in figure 20.

A "closed motion path" means a movement along a continuous trajectory that enclose an area A closed motion path has no end points A closed motion path can Have many different forms. The shape of a closed path It can depend on the linkage mechanism that generates it. By For example, a closed path can be an orbital path, an elliptical path, a chair-shaped path of assemble, an asymmetric path (for example, a path closed with a smaller radius of curvature on one side of the path compared to the other side), or an oval path or ovoid. In some embodiments, a closed path may be elliptical, orbital or oblong. Examples of motion paths closed are represented in figure 21.

The term "pendulum" means a body suspended from a pivot point so that it swings forward and backward. The term "amplitude" means the magnitude or extent of movement from a specific location (for example, a starting position or an equilibrium position).

The term "average height user" means a user who has a height close to an average height among humans. The average height for men is approximately 5'9 '' (1.75 m) and the average height for women is approximately 5'4.5 '' (1.64 m) (data from the US Department of Health and Human Services ). Therefore, a user of medium height can be defined as a user with a height of approximately 5'6 '' (1.68 m) or 5'7 '' (1.70 m). An example image of a medium height user is used in one or more of the drawings described herein. The "majority of users" can have a height between approximately 5 '(1.52 m) and approximately 6'4''(1.93 m). For the purposes of this patent, "the hip of a user of medium height" refers to a location of the hip of a user of medium height and "the hip of most users" refers to a location of the hip of Most users Users with similar heights may, however, have different torso and / or leg lengths that vary each user's hip position with respect to other parts (e.g., feet) of the user's body. Therefore, there may be variations in the location of a user's hip between people.

Figure 1 depicts an embodiment of a human leg that moves in a movement of walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs. Leg 80, when fully extended, can act as a pendulum. The hip joint 82 may be the upper part of the pendulum with respect to which the leg 80 moves. The articulation of the ankle and knee joints causes a closed path 84 of the foot with an elevation of the foot. Figure 1A depicts several embodiments of the closed path 84 through which a user's foot can move using an exercise apparatus as described herein. Path 84 has a vertical amplitude "h" in the center of the path. The path 84 may have several different shapes due to variations in the horizontal width of the path, as shown in Figure 1A. The vertical amplitude "h", however, remains substantially the same for the various trajectory embodiments 84 for an exercise apparatus with a fixed geometry. At or about speeds when walking or jogging , "h" may be a relatively small percentage of the length of the extended leg "L". Therefore, a mechanical system that more accurately adapts to the natural movement path of a user's leg and foot may include a pendular system that has a pendular length that is relatively long compared to the vertical amplitude "h" .

A vertical amplitude of a trajectory of foot movement can be defined by the geometry of a system crank (for example, a crank radius) and a system of linkage (for example, a pendular linkage system pivoting). Figure 2 represents an embodiment of a system of linkage with a relatively long pendular length in comparison with a crank radius. Figure 3 represents a realization of a linkage system with a pendular length relatively short compared to a crank radius. Such as shown in figure 2, the pendulum angle 86 is relatively small with a pendular length "P" relatively long compared to crank radius 88. A resulting horizontal force when a user steps on a foot element (for example, a foot pedal) is equal to the tread force multiplied by the tangent of the angle of pendulum 86. A horizontal force resulting in the realization represented in figure 2 can be a relatively part small (for example, approximately 10%) of the force of stepped on. In Figure 3, the pendular length "P" is relatively short compared to crank radius 88. A horizontal force resulting in the embodiment represented in the Figure 3 can be a relatively large part (for example, approximately 100%) of the tread force. Therefore a exercise apparatus with a pendular length "P" relatively long compared to crank radius 88 (for example, a pendular length of at least about 3 times the crank radius) can provide a horizontal force resulting smaller. Therefore, an exercise device of this type can provide a smoother, more comfortable movement and more adapted for a user of the device.

The pendulum movement exercise apparatus includes a brake / inertia system or device. Brake / inertia systems receive energy, store energy and supply energy in an exercise apparatus. For example, a brake / inertia system receives power when a user steps down at the start of a stride. The brake / inertia system stores the energy received. The energy received can be supplied back to the exercise apparatus or to the user to help him lift a linkage assembly or a part of a linkage assembly (eg, a foot element) above the top of a step or a stride. This energy transfer helps provide a movement of walking, striding , jogging and / or climbing stairs more natural and more comfortable for a user of an exercise apparatus.

In certain embodiments, an apparatus for exercising includes a brake / inertia system and provides a path of movement of the foot in which the vertical amplitude of the foot's motion path is relatively small in comparison with the pendular length of the movement path of the foot An exercise apparatus of this type can provide one more function and movement path natural, softer, more comfortable and more adapted for a user of exercise apparatus.

Figure 4 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus. 100 frame It includes a base support frame and a top mast. He frame 100 can be any structure that provides support for one or more components of an exercise apparatus. All the frame 100 or a part thereof remains substantially stationary during use. For example, the entire frame 100 or a part of it can remain substantially stationary with respect to the ground on which the apparatus is used to make exercise. "Stationary" generally means that an object (or a part of the object) has little or no movement during the use. For example, an exercise device would be "stationary" if the device is used in a location (a unlike a device for mobile exercise such as a conventional bicycle); even if the device wobbles or Vibrate during use.

The elements for the feet 122 may have bases for 124 feet or any other surface on which a User can stand up. The base for foot 124 is normally any surface or location on which the foot is of a user while using an exercise device (for For example, the base for the foot can be a base or a pedal on the than the one that a user's foot is found during use). The foot base 124 may be a part of the foot element 122. The plane of the base for foot 125 is a plane that intercepts the base for the foot 124 at right angles approximately near the center of the foot base, as shown in figure 4. The plane of the base for foot 125, as depicted in the Figure 4, can be used in any of the embodiments and drawings described in this document.

The linkage elements 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d are components of a multi-bar linkage system (for example, a pendular system of pivoting linkage). He pendular system of pivoting linkage may include one or more pendular elements (for example, linkage elements 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d), elements for the feet (for example, the foot elements 122), and foot bases (for example, the bases for the feet 124). The pendular linkage system pivoting includes left and right parts that are symmetrical each. The left and right parts of a pendular system of Pivoting linkage can move opposite each other. In one arrangement, the linkage elements 152a, 152d are coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to the foot elements 122. The linkage elements 152a are coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to the frame 100 at point 130. The linkage elements 152a are supported. by frame 100 at point 130. Point 130 is a location in the frame 100 which includes an elongated shaft perpendicular to the plane of figure 4 (that is, the axis projects on or off the two-dimensional plane shown in figure 4) to couple the elements (for example, linkage elements 152a) to frame. For example, point 130 may be a location with a shaft or a shaft that attaches the frame to both linkage elements right and left. The linkage elements 152a support a end of elements for the feet 122 coupled to the elements of linkage Linkage elements 152d can also support the elements for the feet 122. The elements for the feet 122 are coupled to a lower end of a pendular system of pivoting linkage For example, the elements for the feet 122 are coupled to linkage elements 152d, which are in a lower end of the pendular system of pivoting linkage.

The linkage element 152c is coupled to and supported by the mobile element 104 at point 132. A "point of upper pivot "of linkage element 152c is coupled to mobile element 104 at point 132. The upper end of the linkage element 152c may be the upper pivot point coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. Alternatively, another part of the linkage element 152c may be coupled to the moving element 104 at point 132 (for example, the pivot point upper on the linkage element may be near the end top of the linkage element). Point 132 is a location which includes an elongated axis perpendicular to the plane of Figure 4 (that is, the axis projects in or out of the two-dimensional plane represented in figure 4) to couple two or more elements between yes (for example, linkage elements 152c and elements mobile 104). For example, point 132 may be a location with an axis or a tree that couples a right moving element to a right linkage element. A similar point or location can be on the left side of the exercise apparatus to coupling a left moving element to a linkage element left.

The linkage element 152c acts as a pendulum moving relative to an upper pivot point of the linkage element, which is coupled to the mobile element 104. The upper pivot point of linkage element 152c represents a top part of the pendulum. Therefore, the linkage element 152c acts as a pendulum supported by the mobile element 104 in point 132, which is the coupling point between the element mobile and the upper pivot point of the linkage element.

The mobile element 104 is a system element pendular pivoting linkage. The mobile elements 104 can Be elements of movement generation. The mobile elements 104 they are supported by frame 100 at point 130. The elements mobile 104 rotate or pivot with respect to point 130. The elements of crank 114 are engaged with mobile elements 104 with rollers 106. During use, as the crank elements rotate 114, the crank elements move the mobile elements 104 and they make one end of the moving elements move in a motion path forward and backward at the point 132 centered on point 130, which is represented so approximated by arrow 134 in figure 4. The trajectory of forward and backward movement of the mobile element 104 makes that the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c coupled to the mobile element at point 132 move in a movement path forward and backward. The motion path forward and backward of the point of upper pivot of linkage element 152c includes at least certain vertical component The hip of most users it can be located near at least a part of the trajectory of forward and backward movement of pivot points upper linkage elements 152c. The hip of a medium height user can be located near at least a part of the forward and backward movement path of the upper pivot points of linkage elements 152c. A exercise apparatus with moving elements that move in a forward and backward movement path can be easier to use and handle than certain other devices to exercise since there is no preferred direction of movement for mobile elements, as there may be for an apparatus for exercise with moving elements that move in a closed motion path

The crank elements 114 make the right and left moving elements 104 move one way opposite to the other (i.e. the right moving element moves towards down while the left moving element moves up, and vice versa). The crank elements 114 are coupled, each, to a pulley device 116. Pulley device 116 is coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by a belt 120. Therefore, the rotation of the pulley device 116 causes the rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

The "crank system" may include, in a generic case, a crank element 114 coupled (or directly attached or indirectly attached) to the device pulley 116. The crank system may be formed by others types of devices that generally convert movement of a rotating element. For example, a system of Crank can include a ring (for example, a metal ring) Supported by one or more rollers. Another example is a system of Crank with multiple crank elements. A drive of crank can include one or more intermediate components between the crank element and pulley (for example, a shaft or connectors). The crank system is directly attached to the frame 100, but the crank system may instead be coupled indirectly to frame 100 with one or more components that couple the crank system to the frame. Most of a crank system may be located opposite the plane of the base for foot 125 when the base for foot 124 is in the center of its movement path, as depicted in the embodiment of figure 4. Most of a system of crank can be located near the plane of the base for the foot 125 when the base for foot 124 is in the center of its motion path, as depicted in the embodiment of Figure 11. Most of a crank system can be located behind the plane of the base for foot 125 when the base for foot 124 is at the center of its trajectory of movement, as depicted in the embodiment of the figure 7.

The brake / inertia device (for example, the brake / inertia device 118) provides a load for affect the intensity of a cardiovascular exercise. He brake / inertia device includes a storage element of energy (for example, a steering wheel) that is coupled to a linkage or crank system to increase the inertia of the system. In some embodiments, the brake / inertia device Can provide a variable load. The device of brake / inertia stores the energy provided by a user during a part of an exercise movement and then provide at least part of that stored energy back to user during another part of the exercise movement.

As shown in Figure 4, the element Mobile 104 is straight and the foot member 122 is bent. Without However, the mobile elements 104 and / or the foot elements 122 can be straight, bent at one or more points and / or curved. He mobile element 104 and / or foot elements 122 may be made with a solid or unitary construction. Alternatively, the mobile element 104 and / or foot elements 122 may include multiple components attached or fixed to achieve a desired performance Similarly, the linkage elements of arm 108 and / or other linkage elements may be straight, bent or curved Arm linkage elements 108 and / or others linkage elements may be unitary or may include multiple components

When the user enters the apparatus for exercise, the user stands on the bases for the 124 feet and starts a movement of walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs. The weight of the user on the bases for the feet 124 combined with the movement of the bases for the feet and the elements for the feet 122 causes a force to be transmitted to the mobile elements 104. This transmitted force causes the rotation of the elements of crank 114, pulley device 116 and brake / inertia device 118. As the movable elements 104 move, the bases for the feet 124 rise and fall alternately. This lifting and lowering motion path simulates the lifting and lowering movement of a user's foot when actually walking, striding , jogging , or climbing stairs.

When a user steps down on the part front of a step or stride, a force is transmitted through the pendular system of pivoting linkage to the device brake / inertia 118. The brake / inertia device 118 receives and stores at least part of this transmitted energy. The device Brake / inertia supplies at least part of the stored energy back to the exercise apparatus to help lift the pendular system of pivoting linkage above the part upper one step or stride.

The arm linkage elements 108 are coupled to linkage elements 152a. The elements of arm linkage 108 may be included as part of the linkage elements 152a (i.e. linkage elements of arm 108 and linkage elements 152a are made in one unitary construction). The arm linkage elements 108 they can include handles or other devices that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus.

The left and right parts of a system Pendular pivoting linkage are cross-coupled. The cross coupling causes the left and right parts to be move in the opposite way. As shown in Figure 4, a cross coupling system includes a belt 182, a pulley 186r, a symmetrical pulley on the left side of the device for exercise, and 184u and 184l crazy pulleys. The crazy pulleys 184u and  184l are coupled to pulley 186r and its symmetrical pulley using belt 182. Pulley 186r and its symmetrical pulley are directly attached (for example, rigidly attached) to linkage elements 152a. Belt 182 is a continuous belt which makes the 186r pulley and its symmetrical pulley rotate in directions opposite to each other so that the left and right of the pendular system of pivoting linkage are coupled cross way.

Figure 5 represents a closed path that follows a base for the foot (ie, the foot of a user) during the exercise using an embodiment of an exercise apparatus (for example, the embodiment shown in Figure 4). The vertical amplitude "h" of the path can be determined by the geometry of the crank system (for example, the length of a crank element) and / or the geometry of the pendular system of pivoting linkage. The geometry of the crank system and / or the geometry of the pendular system of pivoting linkage determines the vertical amplitude of the forward and backward movement path of the mobile element 104, shown in Figure 4. The forward and forward movement path Behind the mobile element 104 causes the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c to move in a forward and backward motion path. This forward and backward movement path includes at least a certain vertical component. The vertical amplitude of the forward and backward movement path of the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c determines the vertical amplitude "h" of the base path for the foot 124. The vertical amplitude "h" of the trajectory of a base for the foot (for example, the base for the foot 124) may be similar in magnitude to the vertical amplitude of the forward and backward movement path of an upper pivot point of a linkage element (for example , the linkage element 152c). The vertical amplitude of the forward and backward movement path of an upper pivot point of a linkage element (for example, linkage element 152c) may be similar in magnitude to the length of a crank element (for example , the crank element 114). Therefore, the vertical amplitude "h" of the trajectory of a foot base (for example, the foot base 124) can be similar in magnitude to the length of a crank element (for example, the crank element
114).

In Figure 5, the horizontal amplitude "d" of the path is determined by the amount of force applied by a user to a base for the foot. A user can undertake an arched, substantially vertical upward movement, limiting the horizontal amplitude of the path. A vertical upward movement may approximate when the vertical amplitude of the movement path of a foot base is greater than the horizontal amplitude of the movement path of the foot base. In certain embodiments, a user may be allowed to adjust his stride length "instantaneously" or "dynamically" (for example, the horizontal width of the path). The user is essentially allowed to instantly or dynamically change their stride length by applying variable forces to the elements for the feet 122 or the bases for the feet 124, which is depicted in Figure 4. The user can selectively apply forces They vary the stride length and allow a more accurate simulation of a movement of walking, striding , jogging and / or climbing stairs.

An exercise apparatus may have a pendular length that is relatively long compared to the vertical amplitude of a movement path of a base to the foot (for example, base for the foot 124 shown in the figure 4) or with the length of a crank element (for example, the crank element 114 shown in figure 4). In certain embodiments, the pendular length may approximate to the length of the legs of most users. By For example, a pendular length can be approximately one 10% of the length of the legs of most users. The pendular length can approximate the length of the legs of a medium height user. A base for the foot can be located at or near one end of a pendular element (by example, at or near one end of a linkage element such as the linkage element 152c). Therefore, the distance between a base for the foot (for example, the base for the foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the pivot point upper linkage element 152c (i.e. point 132) represented in figure 4) can be representative of the length pendulum of a device.

The distance between a base for the foot (per example, the base for foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c) is at least 3 times the vertical amplitude of the trajectory of Foot base movement. The distance between a base for the foot (for example, the base for foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c) can be at least 4 times, or at least 5 times, the vertical amplitude of the movement path of the foot base. The distance between a base for the foot (per example, the base for foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c) can be at least 3 times the length of an element of crank (for example, crank element 114). Distance between a base for the foot (for example, the base for the foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the pivot point upper linkage element 152c) may be at least 4 times, or at least 5 times, the length of a crank element (for example, the crank element 114).

The distance between a base for the foot (per example, the base for foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the upper pivot point of the linkage element 152c) may be greater than approximately 2 feet (0.61 m). The distance between a base for the foot (for example, the base for the foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the point of upper pivot of linkage element 152c) can be greater than about 1 foot (0.30 m), or greater than approximately 1½ feet (0.46 m). In certain embodiments, the distance between a base for the foot (for example, the base for the foot 124) and the top of a pendulum (for example, the point of upper pivot of linkage element 152c) is between approximately 1 foot (0.30 m) and approximately 5 feet (1.52 m), or between about 2 feet (0.61 m) and about 4 feet (1.22 m).

Figure 6 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus. The element of right linkage 152R and the left linkage element 152L are coupled (e.g., pivotally coupled) to a 162R right cogwheel and left cogwheel corresponding, respectively. The linkage element 152R and the left linkage element 152L is coupled to a wheel right gear 162R and to a left gear corresponding at the right offset point 164R and the point displaced left 164L, respectively. The displaced point right 164R and left offset point 164L are out of date 180º so that when the right linkage element 152R is raises, the left linkage element 152L descends, and vice versa. The linkage elements 152R, 152L act as pendulums the upper part of the pendulums being located in the right offset point 164R and left offset point 164L, respectively.

The 162R sprocket is coupled to the wheel Toothed 166R by means of a 168R chain. Cogwheels left are correspondingly coupled. The wheel 166R cogwheel and a corresponding left cogwheel are coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 using a belt 120. The belt 120 is coupled to a gear shaft or axle 166R and its corresponding left cogwheel. In some alternative arrangements, devices for a operation similar to the gearwheel 162, the gearwheel 166 and chain 168. For example, a pulley and belt system works similar to the sprocket 162, the sprocket 166 and the chain 168.

In one embodiment, when a user climbs on the exercise apparatus, the user stands on the bases for the 124R, 124L feet and begins a movement of walking, striding or jogging . The weight of the user on the bases for the feet 124R, 124L combined with the movement of the bases for the feet and the linkage elements 152R, 152L causes a force to be transmitted to the sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket. This transmitted force causes the rotation of the sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket. The rotation of the sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket causes a movement path of lifting and lowering the bases for the feet 124R, 124L. This lifting and lowering motion path simulates the lifting and lowering movement of a user's foot when actually walking, striding or jogging . The rotation of the cogwheel 162R and its corresponding left cogwheel causes the rotation of the cogwheel 166R, its corresponding left cogwheel and the brake / inertia device 118. The hip of most users can be located near at least one part of the movement path of the 162R sprocket and its corresponding left sprocket.

The right and left linkage elements 152R, 152L are cross coupled using belt 182 and Crazy pulleys 184. The elements of right and left linkage 152R, 152L are coupled to belt 182 so that the right and left linkage elements move so opposite one with respect to the other. Belt 182 is supported and guided by the crazy pulleys 184.

Figure 7 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus. The elements of linkage 190 are coupled (eg, coupled so pivoting) to the elements for the feet 122. The elements of linkage 190 are coupled (eg, coupled so pivoting) to frame 100 at point 130. The elements of linkage 190 are supported by a frame 100 at point 130 and  support one end of the elements for the feet 122 coupled to The linkage elements. The elements for feet 122 are coupled to the linkage elements 152 at a pivot point lower (for example, a lower end) of the elements of linkage Instead, a lower pivot point of the linkage elements 152 may be elsewhere in the linkage elements (for example, a part near one end bottom of the linkage elements). The linkage elements 152 support one end of the elements for the opposite foot 122 to the linkage elements 190. The linkage elements 152 are  elements of a pendular system of pivoting linkage (for example, pendular elements). The realizations, the system pendular pivoting linkage can include one or more elements pendular (for example, linkage elements 152), elements for the feet (for example, the elements for the feet 122) and bases  for the feet (for example, the bases for the 124 feet). A pendular system of pivoting linkage includes left parts and right that are symmetrical with respect to each other. The parts left and right of a pendular system of pivoting linkage they can move in opposite ways with respect to each other.

The linkage elements 152 are coupled (for example, pivotally coupled) to the elements of crank 114 at the upper pivot points of the elements of linkage (for example, points 132). The linkage elements 152 act as pendulums with the upper part of the pendulums at points 132. During use, while turning the crank elements 114, the crank elements move the linkage elements 152. Crank elements 114 make the right and left linkage elements 152 move from opposite way to each other. The crank elements 114 are coupled to pulley device 116. The device pulley 116 is coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by the belt 120. Therefore, the rotation of the device pulley 116 causes the rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

When a user enters the apparatus for exercise, the user stands on the bases for the 124 feet and starts a movement of walking, striding or jogging . The user's weight on the foot bases 124 combined with the movement of the foot bases and the foot elements 122 causes a force to be transmitted to the crank elements 114 through the linkage elements. 152. This transmitted force causes the rotation of the crank elements 114, the pulley device 116 and the brake / inertia device 118. When the crank elements 114, the pulley device 116 and the brake / inertia device 118 rotate , the upper pivot points of the linkage elements 152 coupled to the crank elements move in a closed path (for example, an approximately orbital path represented by arrow 216 in Figure 7). This closed path movement causes the bases for the feet 124 to rise and fall while the elements for the feet 122 move forward and backward during the exercise. The lifting and lowering movement path of the foot bases 124 simulates the lifting and lowering movement of a user's foot while actually walking, striding or jogging .

Most of the movement path of the base for foot 124 is below the trajectory of closed movement of the ends of the linkage elements 152 coupled to crank elements 114. In some provisions, substantially the entire movement path of the base for foot 124 is below the trajectory of closed movement of the ends of the linkage elements 152  coupled to the crank elements 114. The majority hip of users can be located near at least a part of the closed motion path of the upper pivot points of the linkage elements 152 coupled to the elements of crank 114. A user's foot follows a similar trajectory to the trajectory shown in figure 5 during the exercise.

When a user steps down on the part forward of a step or stride, a force is transmitted through from the pendular system of pivoting linkage to the device brake / inertia 118. The brake / inertia device 118 receives and stores at least part of this transmitted energy. The device Brake / inertia supplies at least part of the stored energy back to the exercise apparatus to help lift the pendular system of pivoting linkage above the part upper one step or stride.

As shown in Figure 7, the arm linkage elements 108 are coupled to the elements of linkage 190. Again, as shown, the elements of arm linkage 108 may be included as part of the linkage elements 190 (for example, linkage elements of arm 108 and linkage elements 190 are made in one unitary construction). The arm linkage elements 108 they can include handles or other devices that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus.

The right and left parts of a system pendular pivoting linkage can be coupled so crusade. The cross coupling makes the right parts e left move the opposite way. As shown in the Figure 7, a cross coupling system includes a belt 182, a 186r pulley, a symmetrical pulley on the left side of the exercise apparatus and crazy pulleys 184u and 184l. Pulleys Crazy 184u and 184l are coupled to the 186r pulley and its pulley symmetrical using belt 182. Pulley 186r and its pulley symmetric are directly linked (for example, joined together rigid) to linkage elements 190. Belt 182 is a continuous belt that makes the 186r pulley and its symmetrical pulley turn in opposite directions to each other so that the right and left parts of the pendular linkage system Pivot are cross coupled.

The exercise apparatus (for example, the exercise apparatus shown in figure 7) is Built in a compact and economical way. A device to make exercise with a pendulum arm (for example, the element of linkage 152) which is relatively long compared to a crank element (for example, crank element 114) allows the placement of a crank system in one position high. As shown in Figure 7, the element of crank 114, pulley device 116, belt 120 and brake / inertia device 118 are located in a position high. Raising the crank system allows a stride of the relatively long user compared to the length of the exercise apparatus because the user's feet can move back and forth in an area below the crank system, as represented by the area shaded 191. The stride length of a user would be shortened if the crank system was located in a lowered position (for example, shortening the length of a pendulum arm (by example, the linkage element 152)) so that the system of Crank prevents or restricts the stride of the user. A length of Longer stride can be obtained with a crank system located in a lowered position, but only increasing substantially the overall length of the apparatus to make exercise. Therefore, an exercise apparatus with one arm relatively long pendulum compared to an element of relatively short crank allows stride lengths to be obtained longer in a device for more compact exercise and economic.

Figure 8 represents a side view of another implementation of the exercise apparatus. Figure 9 represents a top view of the embodiment represented in Figure 8. The elements for the feet 122 are coupled to the linkage elements 152, linkage elements 190, the linkage elements 192 and mobile elements 104. The foot elements 122, linkage elements 152, linkage elements 190, linkage elements 192 and the mobile elements 104 are elements of a pendular system of pivoting linkage

The linkage elements 152 are coupled to and supported by the mobile elements 104. A pivot point upper of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the element mobile 104 at point 132. The linkage element 152 acts as a pendulum being the upper part of the pendulum located at the point 132. Mobile elements 104 are generation elements of movement. The mobile elements 104 are supported by the frame 100 at point 130. Mobile elements 104 rotate or pivot around point 130.

The crank elements 114 are engaged with the mobile elements 104 through the linkage elements 192 and a slide assembly 168. The crank system (for example, the crank elements 114 and the pulley device 116) provides at least some support to the mobile elements 104 and to the pendular system of pivoting linkage (for example, the linkage elements 152) through linkage elements 192. During use, as the crank elements 114 turn, the crank elements move the moving elements 104 and make one end of the moving elements move in a forward and backward movement path centered with respect to point 130, as represented approximately by arrow 134 in figure 8. The movement path forward and backward of the mobile elements 104 causes the upper pivot points of the linkage elements 152 are move in a forward and forward motion path behind. This forward and backward movement path It has at least some vertical component. The hip of the majority of users can be located near at least a part of the motion path forward and backward of the points upper pivot of linkage elements 152.

The crank elements 114 make the left and right moving elements 104 move so opposite one another (that is, the right mobile element is move down while the left moving element moves up, and vice versa). The crank elements 114 are coupled to pulley device 116. Pulley device 116 is coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by the belt  120. Therefore, the rotation of the pulley device 116 causes the rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

In one embodiment, when a user climbs on the exercise apparatus, the user stands on the bases for the 124 feet and starts a movement of walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs. The weight of the user on the bases for the feet 124 combined with the movement of the bases for the feet and the elements for the feet 122 causes a force to be transmitted to the mobile elements 104. This transmitted force causes the rotation of the elements of crank 114, pulley device 116 and brake / inertia device 118. As the movable elements 104 move, the bases for the feet 124 rise and fall alternately. This lifting and lowering motion path simulates the lifting and lowering movement of a user's foot while actually walking, striding , jogging or climbing stairs. A user's foot follows a path similar to the path shown in Figure 5 during the exercise.

When a user steps down on the part forward of a step or stride, a force is transmitted through from the pendular system of pivoting linkage to the device brake / inertia 118. The brake / inertia device 118 receives and stores at least part of this transmitted energy. The device brake / inertia 118 supplies at least part of the energy stored back to the exercise machine to help raise the pendulum system of pivoting linkage above the top of a step or stride.

The arm linkage elements 108 are coupled to the linkage elements 190. The elements of arm linkage 108 may be included as part of the linkage elements 190 (i.e. linkage elements of arm 108 and linkage elements 190 are made in one unitary construction). The arm linkage elements 108 they can include handles or other devices that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus. The elements of arm linkage 108 can move in an arched pattern during the use.

The left arm linkage elements and Right 108 are cross-coupled. The coupling crossed causes the right and left parts of the apparatus to Exercising will move the opposite way from each other. The elements 194 are coupled (for example, joined together rigid) to arm linkage elements 108 through tubes 196. Therefore, each element 194 moves in unison with each respective arm linkage element 108 (for example, the right element 194 can move in unison with the element of right arm linkage 108). Connectors 198 couple each one of the elements 194 (for example, the left elements and right) to a rocker arm 200. Connectors 198 can be connecting rods The rocker arm 200 is pivotally coupled to an upper part of the frame 100 at point 202. As the arm linkage elements 108, the connectors move 198 cause a tilting movement of the tilting arm 200. This tilting movement causes the linkage elements of right and left arm move opposite each other (it is that is to say, the tilting movement can cross-connect the right and left arm linkage elements).

During the use of the device represented in the Figures 8 and 9, the slide assembly 168 is located in a fixed position along the mobile element 104 so that the slide assembly moves along the moving element in the fixed position On certain exercise equipment, the slide assembly 168 can move forward and backward (that is, it is adjustable) along an element length mobile 104. Moving the location of the slide assembly 168 along a length of the mobile element 104 allows the slide assembly is selectively positioned along the length of the moving element to determine an amplitude vertical of the movement path of the elements for the feet 122 and / or the bases for feet 124. Therefore, the fact of adjusting the position of the slide assembly 168 allows to vary the vertical amplitude of the movement path of the elements for feet 122 and / or the bases for feet 124. The fact of adjusting the position of the slide assembly 168 varies the amplitude vertical of the movement path of the elements for the feet 122 and / or the bases for feet 124 when adjusting the geometry of the pendular system of pivoting linkage. For example, the vertical amplitude of a path, such as the path shown in figure 5, can be adjusted by adjusting the position of the slide assembly 168, therefore adjusting the vertical amplitude of the movement path of the elements for the feet 122 and / or the bases for the feet 124.

In certain embodiments, the movement (for example, the sliding movement) of the slide assembly 168 can be controllable. For example, a servomotor can be used 170 and a feed spindle 172 to control the movement of the slide assembly 168. Servo motor 170 and feed screw 172 are electrically coupled to controller 174. The controller 174 is used to control servomotor 170 and to check the position of the slide assembly 168. The controller 174 may include user-managed controls and / or a screen for the user of the device. A user can adjust the vertical amplitude of the user's stride using the controller 174 to activate servo motor 170. Activation of servo motor 170 rotates the spindle 172, which replaces the set of slide 168 along a length of the mobile element 104 and adjust the vertical amplitude of the user's stride.

A spring 204 is coupled to the assembly of slide 168 and to linkage element 192. Spring 204 is used to help start an exercise if the crank element 114 is either in a top dead center position or in a lower neutral position. Spring 204 exerts a force greater on one side (for example, the left side or the right side) of the apparatus to move the crank element 114 slightly outside of either a top dead center position or a lower neutral position.

Figure 10 represents an embodiment alternative of a cross coupling system that can be used in the embodiment represented in figures 8 and 9. Pulley 186r and its symmetrical pulley can be coupled to idle pulleys 184F, 184R with belt 182 so that the pulleys and the idle pulleys act jointly with each other. Belt 182 is a continuous belt that It is fixed to pulley 186r and its symmetrical pulley. Pulley 186r and its symmetrical pulley are rigidly coupled to the elements of linkage 190. Belt 182 makes pulley 186r and its pulley symmetrical rotate in directions directly set to couple of cross way the right and left sides of the pendulum system of pivoting linkage. Crazy pulleys 184F, 184R can be drive pulleys with free-rotating clutches in their cubes Free rotation clutches cause rotation unidirectional shaft 188 when the idler pulleys 184F, 184R oscillate A bidirectional brake can be coupled to the pulleys crazy 184F, 184R so that free rotation clutches are not necessary. A bidirectional brake can be, for example, a brake friction disc, belt brake or brake electromechanical.

In certain embodiments, the device pulley 206 is coupled to a shaft 188. Belt 208 couples the pulley device 206 to the brake / inertia device 210. The brake / inertia device 210 is a second device of brake / inertia in the exercise apparatus. The device of brake / inertia 210 receives and stores energy from the horizontal movement of the elements for the feet 122. The brake / inertia device 210 resists horizontal movement of the elements for the feet 122.

In some embodiments, the elements of arm linkage 108 are coupled to the linkage elements 152, as shown in Figure 10A. Therefore the elements of arm linkage 108 extend a length of the linkage elements 152. The upper pivot point of the linkage elements 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 in item 132. As shown, the linkage elements of arm 108 may be included as part of the elements of linkage 152 (i.e. arm linkage elements 108 and the linkage elements 152 are made in a construction unitary). Arm linkage elements 108 may include handles or other devices that can be grabbed by a user of the exercise apparatus.

Figures 11 to 17 illustrate representations schematics of various embodiments of the apparatus to make exercise that can allow the movement of the feet of a user similar to the movement that allow the realizations represented in figures 4 and 6 to 10. Several embodiments are represent here schematically for Simplify the explanation of relevant features. Such representations may not include one or more features that may be present in an exercise apparatus fully functional For example, only the item for the right foot, the base for the right foot, the mobile element right, the right linkage element, the linkage item right arm and / or other components selected from the side appliance right. In some embodiments, the Pulley, belt and / or brake / inertia system. In some embodiments, the cross coupling system of the right and left sides. One or more elements in a device they can be straight, they can be curved, they can be unitary, or they can Be composed of multiple pieces.

Figure 11 represents a side view of a realization of an exercise apparatus. The set of slide 168 is located on the mobile element 104. The element mobile 104 is coupled to point 130 and extends towards the end rear of the frame 100. The linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at a location between point 130 and the slide assembly 168 on the mobile element. The element of linkage 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at the point 132, which is at or near the slide assembly 168, as shown in figure 11A. An upper pivot point of the element of linkage 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at the point 132. The linkage element 152 acts as a pendulum while located the upper part of the pendulum at point 132. The Embodiments depicted in Figures 11 and 11A function in similar to the embodiment represented in figures 8 and 9. In the embodiments depicted in Figures 11 and 11A, the linkage element 192 pushes the mobile element 104 upwards to raise the left linkage element 152 and the element for foot 122 instead of pulling down to raise the linkage element and foot element. The mobile element 104 is supported by the crank system through the element of linkage 192 and slide assembly 168 and is supported by the frame at point 130. The fact of providing support for the mobile element 104 in these two locations provides structural support both in front of and behind a user who is standing on the base for foot 124. In an apparatus for making exercise of this type, some bearings or other components of coupling located at, for example, point 130 and / or the coupling between linkage element 192 and the mobile element 104 are subject to lighter loads than those shown in other embodiments of the exercise apparatus in which larger loads are applied to the couplings in the apparatus. Therefore, bearings or other components of cheaper coupling for certain embodiments of exercise equipment such as those represented in the Figures 11 and 11A.

Figure 12 represents a side view of another embodiment of an exercise apparatus. The element of linkage 152 is coupled to one end of the mobile element 104. A upper pivot point of linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. The element of linkage 152 acts as a pendulum being the top of the pendulum located at point 132. The mobile element 104 is directly attached to the crank element 114 at one end front of the mobile element. The mobile element 104 is coupled to a support linkage element 212. The linkage element of support 212 is pivotally coupled to frame 100 in the item 214. The support linkage element 212 restricts the movement of the mobile element 104. The movement of the element of crank 114 makes one end of the mobile element 104 opposite the coupling with the crank element move in a path closed (for example, an orbital path) of movement in the space, which is roughly represented by the arrow 216. This closed motion path is controlled by the crank system geometry, system geometry pendulum of pivoting linkage and / or the position of the set of slide 168 along the mobile element 104. Most of the path of movement of the base for the foot 124 may be  below this closed motion path. Substantially the entire movement path of the base to foot 124 may be below this movement path closed. The hip of most users can be close of at least a part of the closed motion path.

Figure 13 represents a side view of another additional embodiment of an exercise apparatus. He linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 in the point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. The element of linkage 152 acts as a pendulum the part being located top of the pendulum at point 132. The linkage element 152 is coupled to and provides at least some support to the element 218. Element 218 is supported by a wheel 220, which is gears with the base of the frame 100. A part of the element 218 is move in a forward and backward motion path along frame 100. The hip of most users it can be located near at least a part of the trajectory of forward and backward movement at point 132. The element 218 is pivotally coupled to the foot member 122. Element 218 and wheel 220 may provide at least one certain support for a user's weight on the element for the foot 122.

Figure 14 represents a side view of a additional realization of an exercise apparatus. He linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 in the point 134. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 134. The element of linkage 152 acts as a pendulum the part being located top of the pendulum at point 132. The mobile element 104 is directly attached to the crank element 114 at one end front of the mobile element. The mobile element 104 is supported by and performs a translation movement along a part upper of the frame 100. The linkage element 190 is coupled to an upper part of the frame 100 at point 130. The wheel 220 is coupled to slide assembly 168. Therefore, the wheel 220 is coupled to the mobile element 104 in a position determined by the position of the slide assembly 168. The wheel 220 engages with a top part of the frame 100 to allow mobile element 104 to translate along  from the top of the frame. The movement of the element of crank 114 makes one end of the mobile element 104 opposite the coupling with the crank element move in a path closed (for example, an orbital path) of movement in the space represented roughly by arrow 216. This Closed motion path is controlled by the geometry of the crank system, the geometry of the pendulum linkage system pivoting and / or the position of the slide assembly 168 along of the mobile element 104. Most of the trajectory of Foot base movement 124 may be below This closed motion path. Substantially all of the movement path of the base for the foot 124 may be below this closed motion path. The hip of most users can be close to at least a part of the closed motion path.

Figure 15 represents a side view of a additional realization of an exercise apparatus. He element 218 is coupled to the crank element 114 at one end and to wheel 220 at the other end. The wheel 220 engages with the base of the frame 100 and the support element 218. The element 218 is pivotally coupled to linkage member 152 in point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to element 218 at point 132. The element of linkage 152 can act as a pendulum the part being located top of the pendulum at point 132. As the element rotates crank 114, point 132 moves in a closed path (for example, an orbital path) of movement in space Approximately represented by arrow 216. Most of the movement path of the base for foot 124 is by below this closed motion path. Substantially the entire movement path of the base for foot 124 is below this closed motion path. The hip of most users can be located near at least a part of The closed motion path.

Figure 16 represents a side view of another embodiment of an exercise apparatus. The element of linkage 190 is pivotally coupled to the element of crank 114 at point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 190 is coupled to the crank element 114 at point 132. The linkage element 190 acts as a pendulum the upper part of the pendulum being located at point 132. The foot element 122 is pivotally coupled to the linkage element 190 at or near a front end of the element for the foot. The linkage element 152 is coupled with pivoting manner to the element for foot 122 at point 224. The linkage element 152 is slidably coupled to the foot element 122 using the slide assembly 168, such as shown in figure 16A. The linkage element 152 is coupled to frame 100 at point 130. A pivot point upper of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the frame 100 at point 130. The linkage element 152 acts as a pendulum the upper part of the pendulum being located at the point 130. In the embodiments shown in Figures 16 and 16A, a as the crank element 114 rotates, the crank element causes the front end of the foot element 122 to rise and descend. Therefore, the bases for the feet 124 can be raised and descend as the crank element 114 rotates.

Figure 17 represents a side view of another embodiment of an exercise apparatus. The element of linkage 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. The element of linkage 152 acts as a pendulum the part being located top of the pendulum at point 132. The linkage element 152 is coupled to foot element 122 at or near one end back of the foot element. The mobile element 104, the linkage element 192 and the crank system are located in or near a back of the exercise apparatus. He mobile element 104 is pivotally coupled to frame 100  at point 226. The mobile element 104 rotates or pivots with respect to the point 226. The embodiment shown in Figure 17 functions in similar to the embodiment shown in figures 8 and 9.

Figure 18 represents a side view of a additional realization of an exercise apparatus. He foot element 122 is coupled to linkage element 152, the linkage element 190, the linkage element 192 and the mobile element 104. The element for foot 122, the element of linkage 152, linkage element 190, element linkage 192 and the mobile element 104 are elements of a system pendular pivoting linkage.

The linkage element 152 is supported by the mobile element 104. The linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. The linkage element 152 acts as a pendulum the upper part of the pendulum being located at point 132. The mobile element 104 is an angled element, as shown in Figure 18. The mobile element 104 is coupled to and supported by the frame 100 at point 136. The mobile element 104 is coupled to crank elements 114. During use, custom which rotates the crank element 114, the crank element displaces the mobile element 104 and makes one end of the element mobile move in a forward and backward motion in the point 132. The path of movement forward and backward of the mobile element 104 at point 132 causes a pivot point upper linkage element 152 moves in a path of forward and backward movement. The hip of the majority of users can be located near at least a part of the movement path forward and backward.

Figure 19 represents a side view of another embodiment of an exercise apparatus. The element  mobile 104 moves up and down a vertical part of the frame 100. For example, the mobile element 104 is engaged in sliding or rolling way with the vertical part of the frame 100. The linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 in point 132. An upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 is coupled to the mobile element 104 at point 132. The element of linkage 152 acts as a pendulum the part being located top of the pendulum at point 132. The mobile element 104 is coupled to the crank element 114 through the element of linkage 192. During use, as the element rotates crank 114, the crank element displaces the mobile element 104 and causes one end of the moving element to move up and down along a vertical part of the frame 100. The up and down movement of the mobile element 104 is a linear forward and backward motion represented by approximate way by arrow 134. The trajectory of linear forward and backward movement of the mobile element 104 at point 132 causes an upper pivot point of the linkage element 152 moves in a motion path Forward and backward linear. The hip of most users can be located near at least a part of the linear forward and backward motion path.

Other modifications and embodiments alternatives of various aspects of the invention within the scope  of the attached claims will be apparent to the experts in the art in view of this description. Therefore, This description is to be interpreted as illustrative only and It aims to teach those skilled in the art the general way of carrying out the invention. It is to be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein document should be considered as the preferred embodiments in the actuality The elements and materials can be replaced with respect to those illustrated and described herein, parts and processes can be reversed, and certain features of the invention can be used independently, all this as will be apparent to those skilled in the art after have benefited from this description of the invention. May make changes to the elements described herein document without departing from the scope of the invention as it is defined in the following claims.

Claims (15)

1. Exercise apparatus, which understands:

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a frame (100) configured in such a way that at least a part of the apparatus remains substantially stationary during use; a crank system coupled to the frame, in where the crank system comprises one or more elements of crank (114); a pendular system of pivoting linkage that comprises one or more linkage elements (152) and one element mobile (104) coupled to the one or more linkage elements, in where an upper pivot point (132) of at least one of the linkage elements (152) which acts as a pendulum, is coupled to the crank system through said mobile element (104), and where the upper pivot point (132) of the element of linkage (152c) is set to move on a path during use and is coupled to a part of the moving element, the part being configured to move in a trajectory of forward and backward movement; an element for the foot (122) coupled to a lower pivot point of one or more of the linkage elements,  wherein the foot element comprises a base for the foot (124), where a movement path of the base for the foot comprises at least a certain vertical amplitude, where a horizontal breadth of the base movement path for the foot is controlled by a user and is determined by the amount of force applied by a user to the base for the foot, where a vertical amplitude of the base movement path for the foot is controlled by a vertical path amplitude from the upper pivot point, where a distance between the base for the foot and the upper pivot point of the linkage element set to move in the closed path is greater than 1 foot (0.30 m); Y a brake / inertia device (118) coupled to the crank system.

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2. Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein most of the movement path of the base for the foot (124) is below the pivot point path upper (132) during use. 3. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 2, wherein substantially the entire trajectory of movement of the base for the foot (124) is below the trajectory of the upper pivot point (130, 132) during the use. 4. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 3, wherein the one linkage element (152c) It is directly attached to the crank system. 5. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one of the elements of linkage (152) is coupled to and at least partially supported by the frame (100). 6. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 5, wherein the upper pivot point (132) of a linkage element (152c) is at an upper end of that one linkage element (152c). 7. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 6, wherein the foot element (122) is coupled to a lower end of the pendular linkage system pivoting 8. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the pivot point path upper (132) comprises a closed path. 9. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 7, wherein the pivot point path upper (132) comprises a path of movement towards forward and backward. 10. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 9, wherein the geometry of the pendular system of pivoting linkage and the crank system can be varied to vary the amplitude of the substantially vertical movement of the base for the foot (124). 11. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 10, wherein the distance between the base for the foot (124) and the upper pivot point (132) is approximately the length of a leg of a user of the height device half. 12. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 11, wherein the distance between the base for the foot (124) and the upper pivot point (132) is at least approximately 3 times the range of motion substantially vertical of the base for the foot (124). 13. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, wherein the apparatus comprises an element for the left foot (122) and an element for the right foot (122), and where the element for the left foot and the element for the right foot they are cross-coupled. 14. Apparatus according to any one of the claims 1 to 13, further comprising a device of additional brake / inertia (210) coupled to the foot elements (122), where the brake / inertia device (210) is configured to resist the horizontal movement of the bases to the feet (124). 15. Apparatus according to any claim above, where said distance between the base for the foot and the upper pivot point of the linkage element configured for moving on the closed path is greater than 2 feet (0.61 m) and less than 5 feet (1.52 m).