JP4688174B2 - Pendulum striding exercise equipment (pendulum stridingexerciseapparatus) - 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

  The present invention generally relates to an exercise apparatus. Certain embodiments relate to an exercise device that can allow exercises such as simulated walking, striding, jogging, and / or climbing.

Exercise devices have been used for many years. Some typical exercise devices that simulate walking, jogging, or climbing include a cross country ski machine, a stair climbing machine, An elliptical motion machine and a pendulum motion machine are included.
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  In many exercise devices, the user's feet are constrained to patterns during exercise, and these patterns may not accurately represent the typical path and / or position of the feet during walking and / or jogging There is. For example, in a cross-country ski machine, the user cannot lift the front of his feet above the plane defined by the top of the pedal or footpad. An elliptical machine can provide inertia that helps in changing the direction of the foot pedal, making exercises smoother and more comfortable. However, an elliptical machine can constrain the user's foot to the mechanically defined elliptical path of the footpad or foot pedal. This elliptical path can be too long for a short user or too short for a tall user. Therefore, the elliptical device cannot cope with various users. In addition, jogging strides are longer than walking strides, so a device with a fixed stride length cannot optimally simulate different types of exercise activities.

  The pendulum exercise apparatus can tolerate varying stride lengths. However, the user's foot may be constrained to follow the same arcuate path for both forward and backward movement. Such movement may not accurately simulate walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movements.

  Certain pendulum exercise exercise devices can have a fixed pendulum length. A fixed pendulum length cannot allow for vertical amplitude in foot lift or foot movement and therefore cannot provide a naturally matching foot movement. Other pendulum exercise exercise devices can have a relatively short pendulum length, which cannot be properly adapted to the path of movement of the human foot or leg.

  The exercise device can include a frame. The frame can include at least one portion that remains substantially stationary during use. A crank system can be coupled to this frame. The crank system can include one or more crank members. A brake / inertia device can be coupled to the crank system. In certain embodiments, the exercise device can include a pivoting linkage pendulum system. A pivotal link pendulum system can be coupled to the crank system. The pivoting linkage pendulum system can include one or more link members. In certain embodiments, the upper pivot point of the link member can be coupled to the crank system. In some embodiments, the upper pivot point of the link member is coupled to the crank system through a movable member. The upper pivot point of the link member can move in one path during use. A foot member can be coupled to at least one of the link members. In some embodiments, the foot member can be coupled to the lower pivot point of at least one of the link members. The foot member can include a foot pad.

  In some embodiments, the pivoting linkage pendulum system can include a movable member. The movable member can be coupled to one or more link members. At least one upper pivot point of the link members can be coupled to a portion of the movable member. In certain embodiments, the upper pivot point of at least one of the link members is at the upper end of the link member. That part of the movable member can move in a reciprocating path of movement. In some embodiments, that portion of the movable member can move within a closed path of motion.

  In one embodiment, the movable member is coupled to and at least partially supported by the frame at or near the first end of the movable member. The movable member can be coupled to and at least partially supported by the crank system at or near the second end of the movable member. The portion of the movable member that is coupled to the upper pivot point of at least one of the link members can be between the first end and the second end of the movable member. In some embodiments, the portion of the movable member that is coupled to the upper pivot point of at least one of the link members is near the second end of the movable member.

  In certain embodiments, the pivoting linkage pendulum system can include one or more link members. At least one upper pivot point of the link members may be coupled to the crank system such that the upper pivot point of the link member moves in a closed path. A foot member can be coupled to one or more of the link members. The foot member can include a foot pad. In certain embodiments, the majority of the footpad movement path is located below the closed path. In some embodiments, substantially all of the footpad movement path is located below the closed path.

  In certain embodiments, the distance between the footpad and the upper pivot point of a link member that moves within one path (eg, a closed path or a reciprocating path) is equal to the length of at least one crank member. At least about 3 times. In some embodiments, the distance between a footpad and the upper pivot point of a link member that moves within a path (eg, a closed path or a reciprocating path) is the distance of the footpad movement path. At least about three times the longitudinal amplitude. In certain embodiments, the majority of user's buttocks of the device are located near at least one portion of the path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member.

  In certain embodiments, the majority of the path of the upper pivot point of the link member is in front of the footpad plane when the footpad is in the middle of its path of movement. This footpad plane can be located in the center of the footpad. In certain embodiments, the majority of the crank system is located in front of the footpad plane when the footpad is in the middle of its path of movement. In some embodiments, the majority of the crank system is located near the footpad plane when the footpad is in the middle of its path of movement. In some embodiments, the majority of the crank system is located behind the footpad plane when the footpad is in the middle of its path of movement.

  Advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art by the benefit of the following detailed description and by reference to the accompanying drawings.

  While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments thereof are shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detail herein. These drawings may not be to scale. However, the drawings and detailed description thereof are not intended to limit the invention to the particular forms disclosed, but rather, are intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. It should be understood that it is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within.

  In the context of this patent, the term “coupled” refers to a direct connection or an indirect connection (eg, one or more) between one or more objects or components. Or any intervening connection). The phrase “directly attached” means a direct connection between objects or components. The term “support” means that the first element places or positions the second element directly or indirectly by pushing or pulling on the second element. . The first element can be directly attached to, or coupled to, the second element in providing support. The first element can be in compression while pushing the second element, or can be under tension while pulling the second element.

  The term “path” refers to any type of path that an object (eg, foot, footpad, link member, movable member, or connecting device) or point in space can follow during movement. Means. For example, the path can include a closed path or a round-trip path.

  “Back and path path of motion” means movement along a curve or straight line having two end points. A reciprocating movement is a movement along the same line but in opposite directions. The reciprocating movement can be a substantially horizontal movement, a substantially vertical movement, or a combination of horizontal and vertical movements. An example of a reciprocating path of motion is shown in FIG.

  “A closed path of movement” means a movement along a continuous path surrounding one area. A closed path of movement has no endpoints. A closed path of motion can have many different shapes. The shape of the closed path can depend on the mechanism that creates the connection. For example, a closed path can be an annular path, an elliptical path, a saddle-shaped path, an asymmetric path (eg, a closed path where the radius of curvature on one side of the path is smaller than the other side), or The path may be oval, ie, egg shaped. In some embodiments, the closed path can be elliptical, annular, or oblong. An example of a closed path of movement is shown in FIG.

  The term “pendulum” means an object that is suspended from a pivoting point so as to swing back and forth. The term “amplitude” means the magnitude or degree of movement from a specified location (eg, starting position or equilibrium position).

  The phrase “average height user” means a user having a height close to that of an average person. The average height for men is about 5 feet 9 inches, and the average height for women is about 5 feet 4.5 inches (data from the US Department of Health and Human Services). Thus, an average height user can be defined as a user having a height of about 5 feet 6 inches or 5 feet 7 inches. An exemplary image of an average height user is used in one or more of the drawings described herein. “Majority of users” can have a height of about 5 feet to about 6 feet 4 inches. For the purposes of this patent, “hip of majority users” refers to the location of the user's buttocks of average height, and “hip of majority”. users) refers to the buttocks location of the majority of users. However, users with similar heights may have different torso and / or leg lengths, thereby changing the position of each user's buttocks relative to other parts of the user's body (eg, feet). Come. Therefore, there may be variations among individuals in the location of the user's buttocks.

  FIG. 1 illustrates one embodiment of human leg movement through walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movements. Leg 80 can function as a pendulum when fully extended. The hip joint 82 can be located at the top of the pendulum, and the leg 80 moves about it. As a result of the joint configuration of the ankle joint and the knee joint, a foot path 84 associated with the lifting of the foot can be formed. FIG. 1A illustrates several embodiments of a path 84 that can be followed by a user's foot using the exercise device described herein. Path 84 may have a vertical amplitude “h” in the middle of the path. The path 84 can have several different shapes due to variations in the lateral amplitude of the path, as shown in FIG. 1A. However, the longitudinal amplitude “h” may remain approximately the same for various embodiments of the path 84 for an exercise device having a constant shape. At or near walking or jogging speed, “h” can be a relatively small percentage of the length of the extended leg “L”. Thus, a mechanical system that more accurately corresponds to the natural path of movement of the user's legs and feet can include a pendulum system having a relatively long pendulum length compared to the longitudinal amplitude “h”.

  The vertical amplitude of the motion foot path can be defined by the shape of the crank system (eg, crank radius) and linkage system (eg, pivoting linkage pendulum system). FIG. 2 illustrates one embodiment of a linkage system having a pendulum length that is relatively long compared to the radius of the crank. FIG. 3 illustrates one embodiment of a linkage system having a pendulum length that is relatively short compared to the radius of the crank. As shown in FIG. 2, the pendulum angle 86 can be relatively small with a pendulum length “P” that is relatively long compared to the radius 88 of the crank. The resulting horizontal force as the user depresses the foot member (eg, foot pedal) is equal to the depressing force multiplied by the pendulum angle 86 tangent. The resulting horizontal force in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 can be a relatively small portion (eg, about 10%) of the stepping force. In FIG. 3, the pendulum length “P” is relatively short compared to the radius 88 of the crank. The resulting horizontal force in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 can be a relatively large portion (eg, about 100%) of the stepping force. Thus, an exercise device having a pendulum length “P” that is relatively long compared to the crank radius 88 (eg, a pendulum length at least about three times the radius of the crank) will result in a resulting horizontal force. It can be made smaller. Thus, such an exercise device can provide a smoother, more comfortable and more adaptable movement for the user of the device.

  In certain embodiments, the pendulum exercise exercise device can include a brake / inertia system or device. The brake / inertia system can receive energy, store energy, and transmit energy within the exercise device. For example, the brake / inertia system can receive energy when the user steps down at the beginning of the stride. The brake / inertia system can store the received energy. The stored energy is returned to the exercise device or user to help in lifting the link assembly, or part of the linkage assembly (eg, foot member) onto the top of the step or stride Can do. This energy transfer can be helpful in providing a more natural and comfortable walking, striding, jogging and / or climbing movement for the exercise device user.

  In a particular embodiment, the exercise device includes a brake / inertia system, wherein the longitudinal amplitude of the motion foot path is relatively small compared to the pendulum length of the motion foot path. Can be provided. Such an exercise device can provide a more natural, smoother, more comfortable and more adaptable function and path of movement for the user of the exercise device.

  FIG. 4 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The frame 100 can include a basic support framework and an upper stalk. The frame 100 can be any structure that provides support for one or more components of the exercise device. In certain embodiments, all or a portion of the frame 100 can remain substantially stationary during use. For example, all or part of the frame 100 can remain substantially stationary relative to the floor on which the exercise device is used. “Still” generally means that an object (or part of the object) moves little or not in use. For example, when an exercise device is operating in one place (as opposed to a mobile exercise device such as a normal bicycle), it can be “still It will be.

  The foot member 122 can have a foot pad 124 or any other surface on which a user can stand. The foot pad 124 is typically any surface or location where the user's foot is located during use of the exercise device (eg, the foot pad may be a pad or pedal on which the user's foot is located). In some embodiments, the foot pad 124 can be part of the foot member 122. As shown in FIG. 4, the foot pad plane 125 is a plane that crosses the foot pad 124 at a right angle near the center of the foot pad. A foot pad plane 125 as shown in FIG. 4 can be used in any of the embodiments and drawings described herein.

  The link members 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d can have a plurality of bars as components of a linkage system (eg, a pivoting linkage pendulum system). In certain embodiments, the pivoting linkage pendulum system includes one or more pendulum members (eg, link members 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d), a foot member (eg, foot member 122), and a foot pad. (E.g., foot pad 124). The pivot linkage pendulum system can include a left portion and a right portion that are mirror images of each other. In certain embodiments, the left and right portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system can move in opposite directions relative to each other. In one embodiment, the link members 152a, 152d are coupled to the foot member 122 (eg, pivotally coupled). Link member 152a may be coupled to frame 100 at point 130 (eg, pivotally coupled). The link member 152 a can be supported by the frame 100 at the point 130. Point 130 is an elongate axis perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 4 for coupling a member (eg, link member 152a) to the frame (ie, this axis is inward or outward from the two-dimensional plane shown in FIG. 4). Is one place on the frame 100 that can include For example, point 130 may be one location having an axis or shaft that couples the frame to both the right and left link members. In certain embodiments, the link member 152a can support one end of the foot member 122 that is coupled to the link member. The link member 152d can also support the foot member 122. The foot member 122 can be coupled to the lower end of the pivoting linkage pendulum system. For example, the foot member 122 can be coupled to the link member 152d at the lower end of the pivoting linkage pendulum system.

  The link member 152 c can be coupled to the movable member 104 at the point 132 and supported by the movable member 104. The “upper pivot point” of link member 152 c can be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. In certain embodiments, the upper end of link member 152 c may be the upper pivot point that is coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. In some embodiments, another portion of the link member 152c can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132 (eg, the upper pivot point on the link member is near the upper end of the link member). Can exist). Point 132 is an elongate axis perpendicular to the plane of FIG. 4 for coupling a plurality of members together (eg, link member 152c and movable member 104) (ie, this axis is the two-dimensional shown in FIG. 4). Projecting inward or outward from the plane of the surface). For example, point 132 may be a location having an axis or shaft that couples the right movable member to the right link member. A similar point or location may exist on the left side of the exercise device to couple the left movable member to the left link member.

  The link member 152 c can function as a pendulum that moves about the upper pivot point of the link member that is coupled to the movable member 104. The upper pivot point of the link member 152c represents the top of the pendulum. Accordingly, the link member 152c functions as a pendulum supported by the movable member 104 at a point 132 that is a coupling point between the movable member and the upper pivot point of the link member.

  In certain embodiments, the movable member 104 can be one member of a pivoting linkage pendulum system. In some embodiments, the movable member 104 can be a motion generating member. The movable member 104 can be supported by the frame 100 at a point 130. The movable member 104 can rotate or pivot about the point 130. The crank member 114 can engage the movable member 104 with the roller 106. In use, the crank member 114 can move the movable member 104 as it rotates and move one end of the movable member about the point 130 at a point 132 within the reciprocal path of movement. Is roughly represented by arrow 134 in FIG. The reciprocal path of movement of the movable member 104 can move the upper pivot point of the link member 152c coupled to the movable member at point 132 within the reciprocal path of movement. The reciprocal path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152c can include at least some vertical components. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's buttocks can be located near at least a portion of the reciprocal path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152c. In some embodiments, the average height user's buttocks may be located near at least a portion of the reciprocal path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152c. In certain embodiments, an exercise device having a movable member that moves in a reciprocating path of motion can be more easily used and learned than certain embodiments of other exercise devices. This is because there is no preferred direction of motion for a movable member that may exist for an exercise device having a movable member that moves in a closed path of motion.

  The crank member 114 can move the right movable member 104 and the left movable member 104 in opposite directions relative to each other (i.e., as the left movable member moves up, the right movable member moves down). Movement, and vice versa). The crank member 114 can be coupled to the pulley device 116. The pulley device 116 can be coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by a belt 120. Thus, rotation of the pulley device 116 can cause rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

  In certain embodiments, the “crank system” generally includes a crank member 114 that is coupled (directly attached or indirectly attached) to the pulley device 116. be able to. In some embodiments, the crank system can generally be formed from other types of devices that convert the reciprocation or movement of the member into rotation. For example, a crank system can include a ring (eg, a metal ring) supported by one or more rollers. Another example is a crank system having a plurality of crank members. In certain embodiments, the crank drive can include one or more intermediate components (eg, an axle or connector) between the crank member and the pulley. In certain embodiments, the crank system can be attached directly to the frame 100. In some embodiments, the crank system can be indirectly coupled to the frame 100 using one or more components that couple the crank system to the frame. In a particular embodiment, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 4, when the foot pad 124 is in the middle of its path of movement, the majority of the crank system is Can be located in front. In some embodiments, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 11, when the foot pad 124 is in the middle of its path of movement, the majority of the crank system is the foot pad plane 125. Can be located in the vicinity. In some embodiments, as shown in the embodiment of FIG. 7, when the foot pad 124 is in the middle of its path of motion, the majority of the crank system is the foot pad plane 125. Can be located behind.

  A brake / inertia device (eg, brake / inertia device 118) can provide a load to affect the intensity of cardiovascular training. The brake / inertia device may include an energy-storing member (eg, flywheel) that is coupled to a coupling or crank system to increase the inertia of the system. In some embodiments, the brake / inertia device can provide a variable load. In some embodiments, the brake / inertia device can store energy provided by the user during a portion of the exercise movement, and then at least a portion of such stored energy is exercised. It can be returned to the user during another part of the movement.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the movable member 104 can be straight and the foot member 122 can be bent. However, in some embodiments, the movable member 104 and / or the foot member 122 can be straight, bent at one or more locations, and / or curved. In certain embodiments, the movable member 104 and / or the foot member 122 are constructed from a single or unitary structure. In some embodiments, the movable member 104 and / or the foot member 122 can include multiple components that are combined or fixed to achieve the desired performance. Similarly, arm link member 108 and / or other link members can be straight, bent, or curved. The arm link member 108 and / or other link members may be a single configuration or may include multiple components.

  In one embodiment, the user stands on the foot pad 124 and begins walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movements when climbing the exercise device. The user's weight on the foot pad 124, coupled with the movement of the foot pad and foot member 122, can transmit force to the movable member 104. This transmitted force can cause rotation of crank member 114, pulley device 116, and brake / inertia device 118. As the movable member 104 moves, the foot pads 124 can alternately move up and down. This up and down path of movement can simulate the up and down movement of the user's foot during actual walking, striding, jogging, or climbing.

  The user can transmit force to the brake / inertia device 118 through the pivoting linkage pendulum system when stepping down at the front of the step or stride. The brake / inertia device 118 can receive and store at least some of this transmitted energy. The brake / inertia device can return at least some of the stored energy to the exercise device to help lift the pivot linkage pendulum system above the top of the step or stride.

  The arm link member 108 can be coupled to the link member 152a. In some embodiments, the arm link member 108 can be included as part of the link member 152a (ie, the arm link member 108 and the link member 152a are comprised of a single structure). The arm link member 108 can include a handle or other device that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus.

  In certain embodiments, the right and left portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system can be coupled to each other. By joining the brushes, the right part and the left part can be moved in opposite directions. As shown in FIG. 4, the system that couples to the chasm includes a belt 182, a pulley 186r, a mirror image pulley on the left side of the exercise device, and idler pulleys 184u and 184l. Can be included. Idler pulleys 184u and 184l can be coupled to pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley by belt 182. The pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley can be directly attached (eg, fixedly attached) to the link member 152a. Belt 182 is a discontinuity that causes pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley to rotate in opposite directions with respect to each other so that the right and left portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system are joined together by brushing. It can be a belt without any.

  FIG. 5 illustrates the path that the foot pad (ie, the user's foot) can follow during an exercise using one embodiment of the exercise device (eg, the embodiment shown in FIG. 4). The longitudinal amplitude “h” of the path can be determined by the shape of the crank system (eg, the length of the crank member) and / or the shape of the pivoting linkage pendulum system. The shape of the crank system and / or the shape of the pivot linkage pendulum system can determine the vertical amplitude of the reciprocating path of movement of the movable member 104 shown in FIG. The reciprocating path of movement of the movable member 104 moves the upper pivot point of the link member 152c within the reciprocating path of movement. This reciprocating path of movement may include at least some vertical components. The longitudinal amplitude of the reciprocating path of the movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152c can determine the longitudinal amplitude “h” of the path of the foot pad 124. In certain embodiments, the vertical amplitude “h” of the path of the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) is the vertical amplitude of the reciprocating path of the upper pivot point movement of the link member (eg, link member 152c). It can be the same size as. In certain embodiments, the vertical amplitude of the reciprocal path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member (eg, link member 152c) is sized similar to the length of the crank member (eg, crank member 114). Can do. Accordingly, the vertical amplitude “h” of the path of the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) can be as large as the length of the crank member (eg, crank member 114).

  In FIG. 5, the lateral amplitude “d” of the path can be determined by the amount of force applied to the footpad by the user. The user can perform an arcuate, nearly vertical climbing motion by limiting the lateral amplitude of the path. A vertical climbing movement can be approached if the vertical amplitude of the footpad movement path is greater than the lateral amplitude of the footpad movement path. In certain embodiments, the user can adjust his stride length (eg, lateral amplitude of the path) “immediately” or “dynamically”. The user can basically change his stride length immediately or dynamically by applying a varying force to the foot member 122 or foot pad 124 shown in FIG. The user can selectively provide the ability to change the length of the stride to allow a more accurate simulation of walking, striding, jogging, and / or climbing movements.

  The exercise device may be adapted to a longitudinal amplitude of the path of movement of the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124 shown in FIG. 4) or to the length of the crank member (eg, crank member 114 shown in FIG. 4). Can have a relatively long pendulum length. In certain embodiments, the pendulum length can be close to the length of the majority of users' legs. For example, the length of the pendulum can be within about 10% of the length of the majority of users' legs. In some embodiments, the length of the pendulum can be close to the leg length of an average height user. The footpad can be located at or near one end of the pendulum member (eg, at or near one end of a link member, such as link member 152c). Accordingly, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point (ie, point 132) of link member 152c shown in FIG. 4) is determined by the device The length of the pendulum can be expressed.

  In certain embodiments, the distance between the footpad (eg, footpad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is the vertical length of the footpad movement path. It can be at least three times the amplitude. In some embodiments, the distance between the footpad (eg, footpad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is the length of the footpad movement path. At least 4 times, or at least 5 times. In certain embodiments, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is the crank member (eg, crank member 114). Can be at least three times the length of. In some embodiments, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is the crank member (eg, crank member 114). ) At least 4 times, or at least 5 times.

  In one embodiment, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is greater than about 2 feet. In some embodiments, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is greater than about 1 foot, Or longer than about 1.5 feet. In certain embodiments, the distance between the foot pad (eg, foot pad 124) and the top of the pendulum (eg, the upper pivot point of link member 152c) is about 1 foot to about 5 feet, or About 2 feet to about 4 feet.

  FIG. 6 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The right link member 152R and the left link member 152L can be coupled (eg, pivotally coupled) to the right sprocket 162R and the corresponding left sprocket, respectively. In certain embodiments, link member 152R and left link member 152L may be coupled to right sprocket 162R and corresponding left sprocket at right offset point 164R and left offset point 164L, respectively. The right offset point 164R and the left offset point 164L can be 180 degrees out of phase so that when the right link member 152R is raised, the left link member 152L is lowered and vice versa. It is. The link members 152R, 152L can function as pendulums, and the tops of these pendulums are respectively located at the right offset point 164R and the left offset point 164L. .

  Sprocket 162R can be coupled to sprocket 166R by chain 168R. The left sprocket can be coupled accordingly. Sprocket 166R and the corresponding left sprocket can be coupled to brake / inertia device 118 using belt 120. Belt 120 may be coupled to sprocket 166R and its corresponding left sprocket axle or shaft. In some embodiments, devices that function similarly for sprocket 162, sprocket 166, and chain 168 may be used. For example, the pulley and belt system can function similarly for sprocket 162, sprocket 166, and chain 168.

  In one embodiment, the user stands on the foot pad 124R, 124L and begins a walking, striding, or jogging movement when climbing the exercise device. The user's weight on the foot pads 124R, 124L, coupled with the movement of the foot pads and link members 152R, 152L, can transmit forces to the sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket. This transmitted force can cause rotation of sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket. The rotation of the sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket can provide a path up and down the movement of the foot pads 124R, 124L. This up and down path of movement can simulate the up and down movement of the user's foot during actual walking, striding or jogging. The rotation of sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket can cause rotation of sprocket 166R, its corresponding left sprocket, and brake / inertia device 118. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the path of motion of sprocket 162R and its corresponding left sprocket.

  A belt 182 and an idler pulley 184 can be used to join the right link member 152R and the left link member 152L to each other. The right link member 152R and the left link member 152L can be coupled to the belt 182 such that the right link member and the left link member move in opposite directions with respect to each other. The belt 182 can be supported and guided by an idler pulley 184.

  FIG. 7 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The link member 190 can be coupled to the foot member 122 (eg, pivotally coupled). Link member 190 may be coupled to frame 100 at point 130 (eg, pivotally coupled). Link members 190 can be supported by the frame 100 at points 130 and can support one end of a foot member 122 that is coupled to the link members. The foot member 122 can be coupled to the link member 152 at the lower pivot point (eg, the lower end) of the link member. In some embodiments, the lower pivot point of the link members 152 can be in another portion of the link members (eg, the portion near the lower end of the link members). . The link member 152 can support one end of the foot member 122 on the opposite side of the link member 190. In certain embodiments, link member 152 is a member of a pivoting linkage pendulum system (eg, a pendulum member). In certain embodiments, the pivoting linkage pendulum system includes one or more pendulum members (eg, link member 152), foot members (eg, foot member 122), and foot pads (eg, foot pad 124). ). The pivoting linkage pendulum system can include a left portion and a right portion that are mirror images of each other. In certain embodiments, the left and right portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system can move in opposite directions relative to each other.

  The link members 152 can be coupled (eg, pivotally coupled) to the crank member 114 at their upper pivot point (eg, point 132). The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost part of these pendulums is arranged at the point 132. In use, the crank member 114 can move the link member 152 as it rotates. The crank member 114 can move the right link member 152 and the left link member 152 in directions opposite to each other. The crank member 114 can be coupled to the pulley device 116. The pulley device 116 can be coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by a belt 120. Thus, rotation of the pulley device 116 can cause rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

  In one embodiment, the user stands on the foot pad 124 and begins a walking, striding, or jogging movement when climbing the exercise device. The user's weight on the foot pad 124, coupled with the movement of the foot pad and foot member 122, can transmit force to the crank member 114 through the link member 152. This transmitted force can cause rotation of crank member 114, pulley device 116, and brake / inertia device 118. As the crank member 114, the pulley device 116, and the brake / inertia device 118 rotate, the upper pivot point of the link member 152 coupled to the crank member is generally approximated by a closed path (eg, arrow 216 in FIG. 7). In the circular path shown in Fig. This closed path movement moves the foot pad 124 up and down as the foot member 122 moves back and forth during the exercise. The up and down paths of the movement of the foot pad 124 can simulate the up and down movement of the user's foot during actual walking, striding, or jogging.

  In certain embodiments, the majority of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below the closed path of movement of the end of the link member 152 that is coupled to the crank member 114. In some embodiments, substantially all of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below the closed path of movement of the end of the link member 152 that is coupled to the crank member 114. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the closed path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152 that is coupled to the crank member 114. The user's foot can follow a route similar to the route shown in FIG. 5 during exercise.

  The user can transmit force to the brake / inertia device 118 through the pivoting linkage pendulum system when stepping down at the front of the step or stride. The brake / inertia device 118 can receive and store at least some of this transmitted energy. The brake / inertia device can return at least some of the stored energy to the exercise device to help lift the pivot linkage pendulum system above the top of the step or stride.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the arm link member 108 can be coupled to the link member 190. In some embodiments, the arm link member 108 can be included as part of the link member 190 (eg, the arm link member 108 and the link member 190 are comprised of a single structure). The arm link member 108 can include a handle or other device that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus.

  In certain embodiments, the right and left portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system can be coupled to each other. By joining the brushes, the right part and the left part can be moved in opposite directions. As shown in FIG. 7, the system that couples to the brush can include a belt 182, a pulley 186r, a mirror image pulley on the left side of the exercise device, and idler pulleys 184u and 184l. . Idler pulleys 184u and 184l can be coupled to pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley by belt 182. Pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley can be attached directly to link member 190 (eg, fixedly attached). Belt 182 is a discontinuity that causes pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley to rotate in opposite directions with respect to each other so that the right and left portions of the pivoting linkage pendulum system are joined together by brushing. It can be a belt without any.

  In certain embodiments, an exercise device (eg, the exercise device shown in FIG. 7) can be constructed in a compact and economical manner. An exercise device having a pendulum arm (e.g., link member 152) that is relatively long compared to a crank member (e.g., crank member 114) can allow the crank system to be placed in a higher position. As shown in FIG. 7, the crank member 114, the pulley device 116, the belt 120, and the brake / inertia device 118 can be placed in a high position. As the crank system is raised, the user's feet can move back and forth into the area below the crank system, as represented by the hatched area 191, compared to the length of the exercise device. A relatively long user stride can be tolerated. If the crank system is placed in a lower position (e.g., by reducing the length of the pendulum arm (e.g., link member 152)) so that the crank system suppresses or limits the user's stride For example, the length of the user's stride will be shortened. With the crank system in a lower position, longer stride lengths can only be obtained by significantly increasing the overall length of the exercise device. Therefore, an exercise device having a pendulum arm that is relatively long compared to a relatively short crank member can allow a longer stride length to be obtained in a more compact and economical exercise device.

  FIG. 8 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. FIG. 9 shows a top view of the embodiment shown in FIG. The foot member 122 can be coupled to the link member 152, the link member 190, the link member 192, and the movable member 104. Foot member 122, link member 152, link member 190, link member 192, and movable member 104 may be members of a pivoting linkage pendulum system.

  The link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 and supported by the movable member 104. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. In certain embodiments, the movable member 104 can be a motion generating member. The movable member 104 can be supported by the frame 100 at a point 130. The movable member 104 can rotate or pivot about the point 130.

  The crank member 114 can engage the movable members 104 through a link member 192 and a slider assembly 168. The crank system (eg, crank member 114 and pulley device 116) may provide at least some support to the movable member 104 and the pivoting linkage pendulum system (eg, link member 152) through the link member 192. it can. In use, the crank member 114 can move the movable member 104 as it rotates to move one end of the movable member within the reciprocal path of movement about the point 130, which is illustrated in FIG. Roughly represented by 8 arrows 134. The reciprocal path of movement of the movable member 104 can move the upper pivot point of the link member 152 within the reciprocal path of motion. This reciprocating path of movement can have at least some vertical components. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's buttocks can be located near at least a portion of the reciprocal path of movement of the upper pivot point of the link member 152.

  The crank member 114 can move the right movable member 104 and the left movable member 104 in opposite directions relative to each other (i.e., as the left movable member moves up, the right movable member moves down). Movement, and vice versa). The crank member 114 can be coupled to the pulley device 116. The pulley device 116 can be coupled to the brake / inertia device 118 by a belt 120. Thus, rotation of the pulley device 116 can cause rotation of the brake / inertia device 118.

  In one embodiment, the user stands on the foot pad 124 and begins walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movements when climbing the exercise device. The user's weight on the foot pad 124, coupled with the movement of the foot pad and foot member 122, can transmit force to the movable member 104. This transmitted force can cause rotation of crank member 114, pulley device 116, and brake / inertia device 118. As the movable member 104 moves, the foot pads 124 can alternately move up and down. This up and down path of movement can simulate the up and down movement of the user's foot during actual walking, striding, jogging, or climbing. The user's foot can follow a route similar to the route shown in FIG. 5 during exercise.

  The user can transmit force to the brake / inertia device 118 through the pivoting linkage pendulum system when stepping down at the front of the step or stride. The brake / inertia device 118 can receive and store at least some of this transmitted energy. The brake / inertia device 118 can return at least some of the stored energy to the exercise device to help lift the pivot linkage pendulum system above the top of the step or stride.

  The arm link member 108 can be coupled to the link member 190. In some embodiments, the arm link member 108 can be included as part of the link member 190 (ie, the arm link member 108 and the link member 190 are comprised of a single structure). The arm link member 108 can include a handle or other device that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus. In certain embodiments, the arm link member 108 can move in an arcuate pattern during use.

  In certain embodiments, the left arm link member 108 and the right arm link member 108 can be coupled to each other. By joining the brush, the right part and the left part of the exercise device can be moved in opposite directions with respect to each other. Element 194 can be coupled (eg, fixedly attached) to arm link member 108 through tube 196. Thus, each element 194 can move in unison with each respective arm link member 108 (eg, the right element 194 can move in unison with the right arm link member 108). A connector 198 can couple each of the elements 194 (eg, the right element and the left element) to the rocker arm 200. The connector 198 can be a connector rod. Rocker arm 200 may be pivotally coupled to the upper portion of frame 100 at point 202. In one embodiment, the connector 198 can cause the rocker arm 200 to swing as the arm link member 108 moves. This swaying motion can move the right arm link member and the left arm link member in opposite directions relative to each other (ie, this swaying motion can be performed by the left arm link member and the right arm・ The link member can be connected to the plow.

  During use of the apparatus shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, the slider assembly 168 can be in place along the movable member 104 so that the slider assembly is in place. It moves with the movable member. In certain embodiments, the slider assembly 168 can be moved back and forth along the entire length of the movable member 104 (ie, can be adjusted). By moving the position of the slider assembly 168 along the entire length of the movable member 104, the slider assembly can be selectively placed along the entire length of the movable member to move the foot member 122 and / or the foot pad 124. The vertical amplitude of the path can be determined. Accordingly, by adjusting the position of the slider assembly 168, the vertical amplitude of the path of motion of the foot member 122 and / or the foot pad 124 can be changed. Adjusting the position of the slider assembly 168 changes the vertical amplitude of the path of movement of the foot member 122 and / or foot pad 124 by adjusting the shape of the pivot linkage pendulum system. For example, by adjusting the position of the slider assembly 168, the vertical amplitude of the path, such as the path shown in FIG. 5, can be adjusted and thus the movement of the foot member 122 and / or foot pad 124 can be The vertical amplitude of the path can be adjusted.

  In certain embodiments, the movement (eg, sliding movement) of the slider assembly 168 can be made controllable. For example, servo motor 170 and lead screw 172 can be used to control the movement of slider assembly 168. In some embodiments, servo motor 170 and lead screw 172 can be electrically coupled to controller 174. Controller 174 can be used to control servo motor 170 and control the position of slider assembly 168. The controller 174 can include controls and / or displays operated by the user for the user of the device. In certain embodiments, the user can adjust the vertical amplitude of the user's stride by operating the servo motor 170 using the controller 174. When the servo motor 170 is activated, the lead screw 172 rotates to change the position of the slider assembly 168 along the entire length of the movable member 104 and adjust the vertical amplitude of the user's stride.

  In certain embodiments, the spring 204 can be coupled to the slider assembly 168 and the link member 192. If the crank member 114 is in either the uppermost middle position or the lowermost middle position, the spring 204 can be used to assist in starting the exercise. The spring 204 applies a greater force to one side of the device (eg, left or right) and moves the crank member 114 slightly away from either the top middle position or the bottom middle position. Can do.

  FIG. 10 shows an alternative embodiment of a system that couples to a brush that can be used in the embodiment shown in FIGS. Pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley can be coupled to idler pulleys 184F, 184R using belt 182 so that these pulleys and idler pulleys function in conjunction with each other. Belt 182 may be a continuous belt attached to pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley. The pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley can be fixedly coupled to the link member 190. The belt 182 can rotate the pulley 186r and its mirror image pulley in opposite directions with respect to each other to join the right and left sides of the pivot linkage pendulum system in a tandem manner. In certain embodiments, idler pulleys 184F, 184R may be drive pulleys with overrunning clutches in their hubs. The overrunning clutch can rotate the shaft 188 in one direction when the idler pulleys 184F, 184R vibrate. In some embodiments, a bi-directional brake can be coupled to the idler pulleys 184F, 184R, thereby eliminating the need for an overrunning clutch. The bi-directional brake can be, for example, a friction disc brake, a band brake, or an electromechanical brake.

  In certain embodiments, the pulley device 206 can be coupled to the shaft 188. The belt 208 can couple the pulley device 206 to the brake / inertia device 210. The brake / inertia device 210 may be a second brake / inertia device on the exercise device. The brake / inertia device 210 can receive and store energy from the lateral movement of the foot member 122. In some embodiments, the brake / inertia device 210 can resist lateral movement of the foot member 122.

  In some embodiments, the arm link member 108 can be coupled to the link member 152, as shown in FIG. 10A. Therefore, the arm link member 108 can extend the length of the link member 152. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. In some embodiments, the arm link member 108 can be included as part of the link member 152 (ie, the arm link member 108 and the link member 152 are comprised of a single structure). The arm link member 108 can include a handle or other device that can be grasped by a user of the exercise apparatus.

  FIGS. 11-17 show various embodiments of exercise devices that can allow movement of the user's foot similar to that allowed by the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4 and 6-10. FIG. Here, some embodiments are shown in schematic form to simplify the discussion of related features. Such a display may not include one or more features that may be present in a fully functioning exercise device. For example, only the right foot member, right foot pad, right movable member, right link member, right arm link member, and / or other right selected components of the device may be displayed. . In some embodiments, pulleys, belts, and / or brake / inertia systems may not be displayed at all. In some embodiments, a system that joins the right side and the left side may be hidden. In some embodiments, one or more members within a device can be straightened, curved, unitary, or composed of multiple elements.

  FIG. 11 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The slider assembly 168 can be disposed on the movable member 104. The movable member 104 can be coupled to the point 130 and extend toward the rear end of the frame 100. In certain embodiments, the link member 152 is coupled to the movable member at one location between the point 130 on the movable member 104 and the slider assembly 168. In some embodiments, the link member 152 is coupled to the movable member 104 at a point 132 at or near the position of the slider assembly 168, as shown in FIG. 11A. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 11A can function similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11 and 11A, the link member 192 pushes the movable member 104 up to its link rather than pulling the movable member 104 down to lift the link member 152 and foot member 122. The member and its foot member can be lifted. Movable member 104 can be supported by the crank system through link 192 and slider assembly 168 and can be supported by the frame at point 130. Providing support for the movable member 104 at these two locations provides structural support both before and behind the user standing on the foot pad 124. In such an exercise device, for example, a bearing or other connecting component located at point 130 and / or the connecting device between link member 192 and movable member 104 can be a heavy load on the connecting device in the device. However, such a load can be reduced as compared to other embodiments of such an exercise device. Thus, less expensive bearings or other coupling components can be used for certain exercise device embodiments as shown in FIGS. 11 and 11A.

  FIG. 12 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Link member 152 may be coupled to one end of movable member 104. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The movable member 104 can be directly attached to the crank member 114 at the front end of the movable member. The movable member 104 can be coupled to the support link member 212. Support link member 212 may be pivotally coupled to frame 100 at point 214. The support link member 212 can restrain the movement of the movable member 104. In certain embodiments, movement of the crank member 114 causes one end of the movable member 104 on the opposite side of the coupling device to that crank member to move through a closed path of movement in space (eg, an annular path). This is roughly represented by arrow 216. This closed path of movement can be controlled by the shape of the crank system, the shape of the pivot linkage pendulum system, and / or the position of the slider assembly 168 along the movable member 104. In certain embodiments, a majority of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below the closed path of movement. In some embodiments, substantially all of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below this closed path of movement. In certain embodiments, the majority of user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the closed path of motion.

  FIG. 13 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Link member 152 may be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. Link member 152 can be coupled to member 218 and can provide at least some support to member 218. The member 218 can be supported by a wheel 220 that engages the base of the frame 100. One portion of the member 218 can move along the frame 100 in a reciprocating path of movement. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the reciprocal path of motion at point 132. Member 218 may be pivotally coupled to foot member 122. Member 218 and wheel 220 can provide at least some support for the user's weight on foot member 122.

  FIG. 14 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Link member 152 may be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The movable member 104 can be directly attached to the crank member 114 at the front end of the movable member. The movable member 104 can be supported by the upper portion of the frame 100 and can translate along the upper portion of the frame 100. Link member 190 may be coupled to the upper portion of frame 100 at point 130. The wheel 220 can be coupled to the slider assembly 168. Thus, wheel 220 is coupled to movable member 104 at a position determined by the position of slider assembly 168. The wheel 220 engages the upper portion of the frame 100 to allow the movable member 104 to translate along the upper portion of the frame. In certain embodiments, movement of the crank member 114 causes one end of the movable member 104 on the opposite side of the coupling device to that crank member to move through a closed path of movement in space (eg, an annular path). This is roughly represented by arrow 216. This closed path of movement can be controlled by the shape of the crank system, the shape of the pivot linkage pendulum system, and / or the position of the slider assembly 168 along the movable member 104. In certain embodiments, a majority of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below the closed path of movement. In some embodiments, substantially all of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below this closed path of movement. In certain embodiments, the majority of user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the closed path of motion.

  FIG. 15 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Member 218 may have one end coupled to crank member 114 and another end coupled to wheel 220. The wheel 220 is engaged with the base of the frame 100 and the support member 218. Member 218 may be pivotally coupled to link member 152 at point 132. The upper pivot point of link member 152 may be coupled to member 218 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. As the crank member 114 rotates, the point 132 moves in a closed path of movement in space (eg, an annular path), which is roughly represented by an arrow 216. In certain embodiments, a majority of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below the closed path of movement. In some embodiments, substantially all of the path of movement of the foot pad 124 can be located below this closed path of movement. In certain embodiments, the majority of user's hips may be located near at least a portion of the closed path of motion.

  FIG. 16 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Link member 190 may be pivotally coupled to crank member 114 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 190 can be coupled to the crank member 114 at point 132. The link member 190 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The foot member 122 can be pivotally coupled to the link member 190 at or near the front end of the foot member. Link member 152 may be pivotally coupled to foot member 122 at point 224. In certain embodiments, the link member 152 is slidably coupled to the foot member 122 using a slider assembly 168, as shown in FIG. 16A. Link member 152 may be coupled to frame 100 at point 130. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the frame 100 at point 130. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 130. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16 and 16A, the crank member 114 raises and lowers the front end of the foot member 122 as it rotates. Therefore, the foot pad 124 can move up and down as the crank member 114 rotates.

  FIG. 17 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. Link member 152 may be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The link member 152 can be coupled to the foot member at or near the rear end of the foot member 122. The movable member 104, the link member 192, and the crank system can be located at or near the rear of the exercise device. The movable member 104 can be pivotally coupled to the frame 100 at point 226. The movable member 104 can rotate or pivot about the point 226. The embodiment shown in FIG. 17 can function similarly to the embodiment shown in FIGS.

  FIG. 18 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The foot member 122 can be coupled to the link member 152, the link member 190, the link member 192, and the movable member 104. Foot member 122, link member 152, link member 190, link member 192, and movable member 104 may be members of a pivoting linkage pendulum system.

  The link member 152 can be supported by the movable member 104. Link member 152 may be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The movable member 104 can be a cornered member as shown in FIG. The movable member 104 can be coupled to the frame 100 at a point 136 and can be supported by the frame 100. The movable member 104 can be coupled to the crank member 114. In use, the crank member 114 can move the movable member 104 as it rotates to move one end of the movable member at a point 132 in a reciprocating motion. The reciprocal path of movement of the movable member 104 at point 132 can move the upper pivot point of the link member 152 within the reciprocal path of motion. In certain embodiments, the majority of the user's buttock may be located near at least a portion of the reciprocal path of motion.

  FIG. 19 shows a side view of one embodiment of the exercise apparatus. The movable member 104 can move up and down on a vertical portion of the frame 100. For example, the movable member 104 can slidably or rotatably engage a vertical portion of the frame 100. Link member 152 may be coupled to movable member 104 at point 132. The upper pivot point of the link member 152 can be coupled to the movable member 104 at point 132. The link member 152 can function as a pendulum, and the uppermost portion of the pendulum is disposed at the point 132. The movable member 104 can be coupled to the crank member 114 through the link member 192. In use, the crank member 114 can move the movable member 104 as it rotates to move one end of the movable member up and down along the vertical portion of the frame 100. The up and down movement of the movable member 104 can be a linear reciprocating movement represented roughly by the arrow 134. The linear reciprocation path of movement of the movable member 104 at point 132 can move the upper pivot point of the link member 152 within the linear reciprocation path of movement. In certain embodiments, the majority of user's buttocks can be located near at least a portion of the linear round trip path of motion.

  Further modifications and alternative embodiments of the various aspects of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this description. Accordingly, this description is to be construed as illustrative only and is for the purpose of teaching those skilled in the art the general manner of carrying out the invention. It should be understood that the forms of the invention shown and described herein are to be considered presently preferred embodiments. In place of the elements and raw materials shown and described herein, multiple elements and raw materials can be used, parts and processes can be reversed, and certain features of the invention are independent All of which will become apparent to those skilled in the art if they enjoy the advantages of this description of the invention. Changes may be made in the elements described herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims.

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of human leg movement through walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movements. FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a path of a user's foot movement through a walking, striding, jogging, or climbing movement. 1 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a link system having a pendulum length that is relatively long compared to a crank radius. FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an embodiment of a link mechanism system having a pendulum length that is relatively short compared to a crank radius. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a path that a user's foot can follow during an exercise using an embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a top view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a side view showing one embodiment of an exercise device. It is a figure which shows the example of embodiment of the reciprocation path | route of a motion. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of a closed path of movement.

Claims (12)

A frame (100) to at least one portion of the device in use is configured to remain the sealed static,
A crank system coupled to the frame, the crank system having at least a right crank member (114) and a left crank member (114) ;
An exercise device comprising a brake device (118) coupled to the crank system and configured to provide resistance to rotation of the crank system;
The exercise device has a right side and a left side, and each side is
A pivot type link mechanism pendulum system comprising a pendulum link member (152c) and a movable member (104), wherein the movable member is swingably coupled to the frame and coupled to the crank system. The end opposite to the lower end of the link member is coupled to the movable member, and the pendulum link swings back and forth in a pendulum manner that is not constrained by the rotation of the crank system during use. The movable member moves along a path having first and second end points where a coupling portion (132) of the pendulum link member and the movable member forms a vertical amplitude and a horizontal amplitude during crank rotation. A pivoting pendulum system configured to move, wherein the longitudinal amplitude of the path is equal to or greater than the lateral amplitude of the path;
The pendulum link member is coupled to the lower end of the base end and includes a foot member (122) having a foot pad (124),
By applying a force to the foot pad by a user, the foot pad can be varied between a step exercise, a walking exercise, a stride exercise, or a jogging exercise, next to the walking, stride, jogging exercise. The exercise device can be varied in amplitude while the user changes the force applied to the footpad . The apparatus of claim 1, wherein a majority of the path of motion of the foot pad (124) is located below the path of the point of attachment of the movable member in use to the pendulum link member . It said movement route of the foot pads (124), according to the any of claims 1 or 2 located below the path of the point of attachment for said pendulum link member of the movable member in use. Wherein a vertical oscillating motion path of the footpads (124), said vertical amplitude of motion path of the foot pad, of claims 1 to 3 which is controlled by the vertical amplitude of the coupling portion relative to the pendulum link members of said movable member The device according to any one of the above. Said movable member, according to the one item claim 1 attached directly to the crank system 4. Said movable member is coupled to said frame (100), and apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, which is supported lifting by the frame (100). The device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , wherein a path of a joint portion of the movable member with respect to the pendulum link member is a back- and- forth motion path . And a slide assembly coupled to the movable member, the slide assembly being selectively positionable along a length of the movable member, the pivoting linkage pendulum system and wherein by changing the outer shape of the crank system, apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 which is capable of changing the amplitude of the longitudinal movement of the foot pad (124). The distance between the point of attachment for said pendulum link member of the movable member and the foot pad (124) A device according to any one of the user of claims 1 Ru length der leg 8 of the device . The distance between the coupling point and the footpads (124) relative to the pendulum link members of said movable member, said longitudinal movement of any of claims 1 to 3 times the amplitude 9 footpad (124) The device according to item. And a left foot member (122) with the right foot member (122), wherein the left foot member and the foot member of the right, any one of claims 1, which is coupled to cross-coupled 1 0 one The device according to item. The brake / inertia device (210) is further coupled to the foot member (122), and the brake / inertia device (210) is configured to resist back-and-forth movement of the foot pad (124). A device according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images