TW202310901A - Exercise machines having adjustable elliptical striding motion - Google Patents

Abstract

An exercise machine is for performing a striding exercise motion. The exercise machine has a frame, first and second pedal members, first and second foot pads on the first and second pedal members, respectively, wherein the first and second foot pads are configured to move in respective elliptical paths during the striding exercise motion, and first and second rocker arms. The first and second pedal members are pivotably coupled to the first and second rocker arms and move with the first and second rocker arms relative to the frame. An adjustment device pivotably couples the first and second rocker arms to the frame. The adjustment device is configured to actively adjust and set a position of the first and second rocker arms relative to the frame, respectively, which thereby changes an incline shape of the elliptical paths, respectively, during the striding exercise motion.

Description

Exercise machine with adjustable elliptical stride motion

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS: This application claims the benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63/223,630, filed July 20, 2021.

The present invention relates to exercise machines, and more particularly to exercise machines that facilitate user adjustment of elliptical stride motion.

The following U.S. patents are incorporated herein by reference:

US Patent Publication No. 2021/0275866 discloses an exercise machine for stride fitness exercise. The exercise machine has: a frame; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; a first foot pad and a second foot pad respectively on the first pedal member and the second pedal member, and in the first foot pad and the second foot pad each of which is movable along an elliptical path during the stride exercise; and a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm each having a first end pivotable about a rocker arm pivot relative to the frame, and There is further a second end pivotable about a pedal lever hub axis relative to one of the first pedal member and the second pedal member. The frame has a first frame portion and a second frame portion. The first frame part supports the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, and can pivot around the frame pivot relative to the second frame part. Pivoting the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion adjusts the position of the rocker pivot, thereby changing the shape of the elliptical path.

US Patent No. 10,946,238 discloses an exercise machine for stride fitness exercises. The exercise machine has: a frame; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; a first foot pad and a second foot pad respectively on the first pedal member and the second pedal member, and in the first foot pad and the second foot pad each of which is configured to move in an elliptical path during stride exercise; a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm pivotally coupled to the frame; and a first adjustment device and a second adjustment device , which are configured to actively adjust and set the position of the first pedal member and the second pedal member relative to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, respectively, thereby changing the shape of the elliptical path.

US Patent No. 10,478,665 discloses a fitness equipment with a frame and a first step and a second step coupled to the frame, so that a user standing on the first step and the second step can perform stride fitness. The first and second pedals each have a pedal member that supports the sole of the user's foot in a manner that facilitates movement of the user's foot relative to the pedal member during stride exercise.

U.S. Patent No. 9,925,412 discloses an exercise device that includes a linkage assembly linking a drive member to a driven member such that circular rotation of the drive member causes substantially the same circular rotation of the driven member . The linkage assembly includes: a link member; a first crank arm connecting the drive member to the link member such that rotation of the drive member causes movement of the link member; and a second crank arm connecting the link member to the driven member , so that the movement of the connecting member causes the rotation of the driven member. At least one additional crank arm is connected to the coupling member at an axis of rotation laterally offset from a line passing through the first crank arm rotation axis and the second crank arm rotation axis.

US Patent No. 9,283,425 discloses an exercise assembly having a frame and elongated footrest members each movable along paths of different dimensions defined by the user. Each footrest member has a front portion and a rear portion. A foot pad is disposed on a rear portion of one of the first and second footrest members. An elongated coupler arm has a lower portion and an upper portion pivotally connected to the frame. The crank member has a first portion that is pivotally connected to a front portion of one of the first and second footrest members, and the crank member has a second portion that is pivotally Rotationally connected to a lower portion of one of the first coupler arm and the second coupler arm such that each crank member can rotate in a circular path. the elongated rocker arm has a lower portion pivotally connected to one of the first and second footrest members between the foot pad and the crank member, and the elongated rocker arm has an upper portion, The upper portion is pivotally connected to the frame.

US Patent No. 9,138,614 discloses an exercise assembly having an elongated first rocker arm and a second rocker arm that pivot relative to each other about a first pivot axis in a scissors-like motion. The slider has a slider body that slides along a linear axis extending through and perpendicular to the first pivot. A link pivotally couples the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm to the slider body. Pivoting the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to each other slides the slider body in a first direction along the linear axis. Relative pivoting of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to each other causes the slider body to slide in a second, opposite direction along the linear axis.

US Patent Nos. 9,126,078 and 8,272,997 disclose an elliptical stride exercise machine in which a dynamic linkage mechanism can be used to vary the stride length of the machine. The control system can also be used to vary stride length according to various fitness and operating parameters such as speed and direction and different stride lengths as part of a pre-programmed fitness routine such as a hill run or interval training program. Additionally, the control system can use the measure of stride length to optimize the operation of the device.

US Patent No. 7,931,566 discloses an elliptical exercise machine having a rotating inertial flywheel driven by a link engaged by the user for exercising by the user. A user actuated brake engages the flywheel and stops rotation of the flywheel after actuation by the user.

U.S. Patent No. 7,918,766 discloses an exercise device for providing elliptical foot motion that utilizes a first rocker link and a second rocker link suspended from an upper portion of the equipment frame, allowing movement of the lower portion of the links At least limited arc motion. The foot pedal assembly is connected to a rotational shaft or member on the lower portion of the linkage such that the foot pedal will describe a generally elliptical path in response to user foot movement on the pedal.

U.S. Patent No. 6,846,272 discloses an exercise device having: a frame adapted to be placed on the floor; a pivoting axle supported by the frame; a first pedal bar and a second pedal bar; fixed to the pedal rods; and arm handles connected for movement with the pedal rods, and the exercise equipment can utilize various pedal actuation assemblies for producing the elliptical motion of the pedals. The stride portion of the elliptical motion can be automatically increased based on fitness parameters such as speed. Additionally, the arm handle can be manually or automatically disconnected from the pedal lever.

US Patent No. 6,217,486 discloses an exercise device comprising: a frame adapted to be placed on the floor; a pivoting axle supported by the frame; a curved pedal bar; a pedal secured to the curved pedal bar; And various pedal actuation assemblies. These pedal actuation assemblies include components that cooperate to provide an elliptical path and provide desired foot flex and weight distribution on the pedals. Thus, as the pedal moves in its elliptical path, the angular orientation of the pedal relative to a fixed horizontal plane, such as the floor, changes in a manner that simulates natural heel-to-toe flexion.

U.S. Patent Nos. 6,203,474, 6,099,439, and 5,947,872 disclose exercise equipment comprising: a frame adapted to rest on the floor; a pivot supported by the frame; an end and a second end; a tread, secured to the tread rail; an elliptical generator; and a track. An elliptical generator is secured to both the pivot and the first end of the step bar such that the first end of the step bar moves in an elliptical path about the pivot. The track is secured to the frame and engages the second end of the step bar such that the second end moves in a linear reciprocating path as the first end of the step bar moves in an elliptical path about the pivot. Thus, the pedal also moves in a generally elliptical path. As the pedal moves in its elliptical path, the angular orientation of the pedal relative to a fixed horizontal plane, such as the floor, changes in a manner that simulates natural heel-to-toe flexion.

This summary is provided to introduce a series of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to assist in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In the non-limiting examples disclosed herein, an exercise machine is used to perform stride fitness exercises. The exercise machine comprises: a frame; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; a first foot pad and a second foot pad respectively on the first pedal member and the second pedal member, wherein the first foot pad and the second a footpad configured to move in respective elliptical paths during stride exercise; and a first rocker arm and a second rocker arm, wherein the first pedal member and the second pedal member are pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm and move relative to the frame together with the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm. An adjustment device pivotably couples the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm to the frame. The adjustment device is configured to actively adjust and set the position of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to the frame, respectively, thereby changing the inclined shape of the elliptical path during the stride fitness movement, respectively.

In a non-limiting example disclosed herein, the exercise machine further includes a first tilt link and a second tilt link pivotally coupling the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm to the frame. Each of the first tilt link and the second tilt link is pivotally coupled to the frame at a tilt link-frame pivot and is pivotally coupled to the frame at a tilt link-rocker pivot. A respective one of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm is pivotally coupled to the adjustment device at the actuator-tilt link pivot. The adjustment device is configured to pivot the first tilt link and the second tilt link rearwardly relative to the frame, thereby moving the tilt link-rocker pivot rearwardly relative to the frame, thereby improving the tilted shape of the elliptical path . The adjustment device is further configured to pivot the first tilt link and the second tilt link forward relative to the frame, thereby moving the tilt link-rocker pivot forward relative to the frame, thereby reducing the elliptical path The inclined shape. In a non-limiting example, the adjustment device includes a first linear actuator and a second linear actuator, the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator each having: a first end, It is pivotally coupled to the frame; and a second end is pivotally coupled to a respective one of the first tilt link and the second tilt link.

In a non-limiting example disclosed herein, the first pedal member and the second pedal member each have a front end portion that is pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second pedal member at a rocker arm-pedal member pivot. A lower end portion of a respective one of the second rocker arms such that each of the first pedal member and the second pedal member can be moved relative to a respective one of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm and relative to the frame is pivotally movable such that pivoting of the first and second rocker arms relative to the frame causes comparable pivoting and translation of the first and second pedal members relative to the frame.

In a non-limiting example disclosed herein, the exercise machine further comprises a first handle member and a second handle member at respective handle member-bridge pivots Pivotably coupled to opposite sides of the bridge on the frame. Each of the first handle member and the second handle member includes an upper end providing a grip for a user performing stride fitness exercises to manually grasp; and a lower end at the handle member-coupler link The pivots are pivotally coupled to respective coupler links such that the first and second handle members and the coupler links respectively pivot together about respective handle member-bridge pivots change. Each of the coupler links has a front end portion coupled to a respective one of the first handle member and the second handle member at a handle member-coupler link pivot; and a rear end portion , which is pivotally coupled to the central portion of the pedal member at a coupler link-pedal member pivot such that each coupler link can be connected around the coupler relative to a respective one of the pedal members. The lever-pedal member pivots.

In certain non-limiting examples disclosed herein, each of the first pedal member and the second pedal member has a front end pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, respectively; and a rear end pivotally coupled to the resistance device. The first and second crank arms are diametrically opposed to each other and have radially inner ends rotatably fixed at the rear of the exercise machine to a central shaft coupled to the resistance device. The first stride link and the second stride link are pivotally coupled to radially outer ends of the first crank arm and the second crank arm, respectively, and are further pivotally coupled to the first pedal member, respectively. And the tail portion of the second pedal member. The first idler link and the second idler link have a first end pivotably coupled to the base member of the frame at the idler link-base member pivot; and a second end portion pivotally coupled to a lower end of a respective one of the first stride link and the second stride link at a stride link-idler link pivot.

In certain non-limiting examples disclosed herein, the adjustment device includes an actuator configured to actively adjust and set the position of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to the frame, respectively , whereby the inclination shape of the elliptical path is changed respectively during the stride fitness movement. In some examples, the actuator is one of a first linear actuator and a second linear actuator, the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator each have a A first end of the frame is pivotally coupled to opposite second ends of the first and second rocker arms. The actuator may comprise an electric motor or a hydraulic piston cylinder. In some examples, the actuator is a linear actuator supported by a bracket having lengthened and shortened guides for supporting the linear actuator. In some examples, the adjusting device includes a pulley assembly and a first rotating device and a second rotating device, the first rotating device and the second rotating device are respectively coupled to the pulley assembly and coupled to the first rocker arm and the Second rocker. In these examples, the actuator is configured to rotate the pulley assembly in a first direction, thereby lengthening the first and second rotation means, and thus enhancing the oblique shape of the elliptical path, and furthermore the actuation The device is also configured to rotate the pulleys in a second, opposite direction, thereby shortening the first and second rotation means, and thus reducing the sloped shape of the elliptical path. In some examples, the adjusting device includes a gear link and a first rotating device and a second rotating device, the first rotating device and the second rotating device are respectively coupled to the gear connecting rod and coupled to the first rocker arm and the first rocker arm. Second rocker. In these examples, the actuator is configured to rotate the gear linkage in a first direction, thereby lengthening the first and second rotation means, and thus enhancing the oblique shape of the elliptical path, and furthermore the actuation The device is also configured to rotate the gear linkage in a second, opposite direction, thereby shortening the first and second rotation means, and thus reducing the sloped shape of the elliptical path.

1-5 illustrate a personal exercise machine 20 for performing stride fitness exercises. The exercise machine 20 extends from front to rear in a longitudinal direction L, from top to bottom in a vertical direction V, and from side to opposite side in a horizontal direction H. As shown in FIG. Exercise machine 20 is generally symmetrical in horizontal direction H such that components on one side of exercise machine 20 are the same as, or mirror images of, components on the opposite side of exercise machine 20 . Accordingly, the description provided below with respect to components on one side of exercise machine 20 applies equally to components on the opposite side of exercise machine 20 .

Exercise machine 20 has a frame 22 that includes a longitudinally extending base member 24 . Horizontally extending stabilizer members 26 extend from the front and rear of the base member 24 and prevent the exercise machine 20 from tipping over in the horizontal direction H. As shown in FIG. Each stabilizer member 26 has a foot 28 for supporting the frame 22 above the ground. The frame 22 has a forward support column 30 extending vertically upward from the front of the base member 24 . The gusset 32 braces and supports the forward support post 30 relative to the base member 24 . A bridge 34 is mounted on top of the forward support column 30 . The bridge 34 has a horizontally extending body 36 with opposing first and second arms 38 extending rearwardly therefrom. Thus, bridge 34 has a generally U-shape and defines a "zone of motion" between arms 38 for the user's body and/or arms during stride exercise. A generally trapezoidal fixed handle 42 is securely mounted on the main body 36 between the arms 38 and is manually grasped by a user operating the exercise machine 20 .

A user console 44 is mounted to and extends generally upwardly from the bridge 34 . Console 44 includes a display screen 46 that is oriented toward a user operating exercise machine 20 . Conventionally, the console 44 may include a processor and memory and be configured for controlling various devices associated with the exercise machine 20, including for controlling resistance and/or incline, as will be discussed herein below, for example. described further. Display screen 46 may optionally be a touch screen, wherein a user operating exercise machine 20 may manually touch the screen to input commands to console 44 for controlling exercise machine 20 . Optionally, an input button 48 is located on the fixed handle 42 and is used to manually enter commands into the console 44 . Optionally, the input button may be located elsewhere, such as on the upper end of the handle 125 described herein below. Input commands entered via display screen 46 and/or input buttons 48 may include, for example, an increase or decrease in resistance of exercise machine 20, and/or an increase or decrease in incline of exercise machine 20, and the like. Optionally, a biomechanical sensor 45 may be provided on the fixed handle 42 and/or handle 125 for sensing the user's heart rate when the user manually grasps the handle 42 and/or handle 125 .

At the rear of the exercise machine 20 , the frame 22 further includes a rear support post 50 that extends angularly upward and rearward from the rear of the base member 24 . Resistance mechanism 52 is mounted to rear support column 50 , including, for example, via a rear frame plate (not illustrated in FIG. 4 ) that is mounted to rear support column 50 and/or base member 24 . The type and configuration of resistance mechanism 52 is known and may vary from what is illustrated and described. In the illustrated example, resistance mechanism 52 is a hybrid generator brake configured to provide resistance to stride motion on exercise machine 20, as will be described further herein below, and the The hybrid generator brake is also configured to generate electricity based on stride motion, for example for powering the console 44 . A suitable resistance mechanism is the "FB Six Series" sold by Chi Hua. Resistance mechanism 52 is connected to pulley wheel 56 by belt 58 and is configured such that rotation of pulley wheel 56 rotates resistance mechanism 52 . The pulley wheels 56 are connected to the rear support column 50 by a central shaft 60 (see FIG. 8 ). The pulley wheels 56 and central shaft 60 are fixed relative to each other so that these components rotate together.

At the rear of the exercise machine 20, the diametrically opposite crank arms 62 have radially inner ends keyed (fixed) to the central shaft 60 such that the crank arms 62 remain diametrically opposite each other (i.e., 180 degrees apart), And causing the rotation of the crank arm 62 and the central axis 60 causes the rotation of the pulley wheel 56 about the pulley wheel pivot 64 defined by the central axis 60 . Rotation of pulley wheel 56 is resisted by resistance mechanism 52 via electromagnet 66, as is conventional and well known in the art.

Exercise machine 20 further has first and second pedal members 68 centrally located on opposite sides of frame 22 . The pedal members 68 are elongated in the longitudinal direction L, each having: a central portion 70; a front portion 72 extending generally forward and upward from the central portion 70; and a rear portion 74 extending generally rearward and upward from the central portion 70. Extending upwardly is a tail portion 76 that extends rearwardly from the rear portion 74 and is generally but not necessarily parallel to the central portion 70 .

At the rear of the exercise machine 20, first and second elongated stride links 78 are freely rotatably (freely pivotally) coupled to opposite stride links at stride link-crank arm pivot 80 by, for example, bearings. The radially outer end of the crank arm 62 . Each stride link 78 has a first end that is pivotally coupled to a respective tail portion 76 of the pedal member 68 at a stride link-pedal member pivot 82 . Each stride link 78 has an opposite second end that is pivotally coupled to a distal or rear end of an elongated idler link 84 at a stride link-idler link pivot 86 . The opposite proximal or forward end of idler link 84 is pivotally coupled to base member 24 at idler link-base member pivot 88 . As illustrated in the drawings, the stride link-crank arm pivot 80 is located along the stride link 78 between the stride link-pedal member pivot 82 and the stride link-idler link pivot 86 , and in particular closer to stride link-pedal member pivot 82 than stride link-idler link pivot 86. In other examples, pivot 80 is at the center of stride link 78 , or closer to pivot 86 .

The first and second foot pads 90 are supported on the central portion 70 of the first and second pedal members 68 . Footpad 90 is used to support the user's feet during elliptical stride movements and to follow an incline adjustable elliptical path, as will be described further herein below.

Exercise machine 20 further has first and second rocker arms 92 pivotally coupled to frame 22 by adjustment means 94, which will be described further herein below. The type and configuration of adjustment device 94 may vary, and additional examples are illustrated in the examples illustrated in FIGS. 11-20 and described further below. The rocker arm 92 has an upper end portion 96, a lower end portion 98, and an elbow portion 100 between the upper end portion 96 and the lower end portion 98 such that the upper end portion 96 and the lower end portion 98 extend at an angle relative to each other. Lower end portion 98 is pivotally coupled to front portion 72 of pedal member 68 at rocker-pedal member pivot 102 such that pedal member 68 is pivotally movable relative to rocker arm 92 and also allows rocker arm 92 Pivoting relative to the frame 22 causes comparable pivoting and/or translation of the pedal member 68 relative to the frame 22 , ie, causing these components to pivot and/or translate together relative to the frame 22 .

Referring to FIGS. 3 , 4 , 6 and 7 , the adjustment device 94 is located in the bridge 34 and extends into the mentioned arm 38 on both sides of the active area. Adjustment device 94 is specifically configured to facilitate selectively adjusting and setting the position of rocker arm 92 relative to frame 22, particularly pivot 108, respectively, thereby varying the elliptical path of travel of footpad 90 during stride exercise, respectively. The sloped shape, as will be described further herein below. Adjustment device 94 may be controlled by reference controller based on stored exercise programs or based on input to console 44 by the operator. This can be controlled via a touch screen, the input button 48 on the fixed handle 42 and/or the input button on the upper end of the handle 125, for example. As will be apparent from the illustrated examples and the description below, the type and configuration of adjustment device 94 may vary.

In a first example illustrated in FIGS. 1-10 , the adjustment device 94 includes first and second tilt links 104 that pivotally couple the upper portion 96 of the rocker arm 92 to the frame 22 . More specifically, tilt link 104 has an upper portion that is pivotally coupled to frame 22 at tilt link-frame pivot 106 . Tilt link 104 further has a lower portion that is pivotally coupled to upper end portion 96 of rocker arm 92 at tilt link-rocker pivot 108, which is generally located at the tilt link - Below the frame pivot 106 . Conventional bearings support the mentioned couplings so that the tilt link 104 can pivot relative to the mentioned axes 106 , 108 .

The adjustment device 94 is configured to pivot the first and second tilt links 104 relative to the frame 22 (i.e., about the tilt link-frame pivot 106) to thereby adjust and set the rocker arm 92 relative to the frame The position of 22, in particular adjusts and sets the position of the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 relative to the frame 22 (ie, around the tilt link-frame pivot 106). In the illustrated example, adjustment device 94 includes first and second linear actuators 110 . It should be noted that the type of linear actuator 110 may vary from what is illustrated and described. In the illustrated example, the linear actuator 110 comprises an electromechanical linear actuator having an electric gear motor 120, a lead screw assembly 121, and a lead nut and tube assembly 125 (see FIGS. 6 and 7). The linear actuator 110 has a front end that is pivotally coupled to the bridge 34 by a trunnion assembly 113 , particularly at an actuator-bridge pivot 114 . The linear actuator 110 has an opposite rear end that is pivotally coupled to the tilt link 104 at an actuator-tilt link pivot 118 (see FIG. 6 ). A conventional bearing, best seen in exploded view in FIG. 7 , supports the coupling at the actuator-tilt link pivot 118 . The actuator-tilt link pivot 118 is offset forward relative to the tilt link-frame pivot 106 and the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 . In the illustrated non-limiting example, tilt link 104 is a generally triangular-shaped plate member with tilt link-frame pivot 106, tilt link-rocker pivot 108, and actuator-tilt link pivot 118 are located at the respective three vertices of the triangle.

The gear motor 120, lead screw assembly 121 and lead nut and tube assembly 125 are configured to lengthen or shorten the linear actuator 110 according to input commands from the mentioned controller, which may be based on operation of the console 44 Operator input or based on programming in the mentioned controller, as described above. Operation of the gear motor 120 in the first direction rotates the lead screw 123 of the lead screw assembly 121 in the first direction, thereby causing the lead nut and tube assembly 125 to move outward along the lead screw 123 and relative to the linear actuator Housing 119 of 110 travels outwards, thus extending linear actuator 110 . Operation of the gear motor 120 in the opposite second direction reversely rotates the lead screw 123 in the second direction, thereby retracting the lead nut and tube assembly 125 inwardly relative to the housing 119, thereby shortening the linear actuator 110 . Due to the relative positions of the tilt link-frame pivot 106, tilt link-rocker pivot 108, actuator-bridge pivot 114, and actuator-tilt link pivot 118, the linear actuator 110 Extension pivots tilt link 104 rearwardly relative to bridge 34 along an arc, thereby moving tilt link-rocker pivot 108 rearwardly relative to frame 22 along an arc relative to tilt link-frame pivot 106 . As illustrated and described herein below, this increases or enhances the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 during stride motion. Conversely, shortening the linear actuator 110 pivots the tilt link 104 forward relative to the bridge 34 along an arc relative to the tilt link-frame pivot 106 along an arc. This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 forward relative to the frame 22 along an arc. As illustrated and described herein below, this reduces or reduces the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 during stride motion.

It is worth noting that the adjustment means 94 need not comprise two actuators, as shown in the first example. In other examples, a motor connected to the two tilt links 104 is used via, for example, electric motors, worm gears, pulleys, and/or any other conventional mechanism for causing the above-mentioned adjustments to the relative positions of the axes. Single adjustment device. Additional examples are illustrated in FIGS. 11-20 , which are described herein below.

Referring to FIGS. 1-5 , the exercise machine 20 has a movable handle member 122 pivotally coupled to an opposite side of the bridge 34 at a handle member-bridge pivot 124 . Each handle member 122 has an upper end with a grip 125 for manual grasping by a user performing stride fitness exercises. Each handle member 122 has a lower end that is pivotally coupled to the coupler link 126 at a handle member-coupler link pivot 128 . Accordingly, the handle member 122 and respective coupler link 126 pivot together about the handle member-bridge pivot 124, and the coupler link 126 can be connected relative to the handle member 122 about the handle member-coupler. The lever pivot 128 pivots. Each coupler link 126 has a front end portion 130 coupled to the handle member 122 at the handle member-coupler link pivot 128; and a rear end portion 132 coupled to the coupler link-pedal member Pivot 134 is pivotally coupled to central portion 70 of pedal member 68 . Accordingly, the coupler link 126 is pivotable relative to the pedal member 68 about the coupler link-pedal member pivot 134 . Elbow portion 136 is located between front end portion 130 and rear end portion 132 such that front end portion 130 extends upwardly at an angle relative to rear end portion 132 . Thus, a user standing on the foot pad 90 and manually grasping the handle 125 can instead push and pull on the handle 125 to thereby apply a push and pull force to the pedal member 68 via the coupler link 126 to assist in the stride fitness movement , as described further below in this paper.

FIGS. 8-10 are schematic views of exercise machine 20 during low incline ( FIG. 8 ), medium incline ( FIG. 9 ) and high incline ( FIG. 10 ), showing paths of travel A1 to A3 of foot pad 90 and stride links - The path of travel B1 to B3 of the pedal member pivot 82 . In each figure, the rocker arm 92 has different swing range positions, which are determined by the position of the adjustment device 94 . FIG. 8 illustrates low tilt, with linear actuator 110 retracted and thus tilt link 104 about tilt link-frame pivot 106 toward bridge 34 (i.e., around tilt link in the side view illustrated in FIG. 8 ). lever-frame pivot 106 clockwise). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 along an arc toward the bridge 34 and, via the connection of the rocker 92 to the pedal member 68 , positions the footpad 90 to follow the low-slope elliptical path of travel A1 . 9 illustrates a moderate tilt, where the linear actuator 110 is moderately extended, and thus the tilt link 104 pivots about the tilt link-frame pivot 106 away from the bridge 34 (i.e., from the side illustrated in FIG. 9 ). view pivoting counterclockwise about tilt link-frame pivot 106). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 along an arc away from the bridge 34 and, via the connection of the rocker 92 to the pedal member 68, positions the footpad 90 to follow the moderately inclined elliptical path of travel A2. 10 illustrates a high tilt situation where the linear actuator 110 is extended further and thus the tilt link 104 pivots about the tilt link-frame pivot 106 away from the bridge 34 (i.e., from the side illustrated in FIG. 10 ). view pivoted further counterclockwise about tilt link-frame pivot 106). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot 108 along the arc further away from the bridge 34 and, via the connection of the rocker 92 to the pedal member 68 , positions the footpad 90 to follow the highly inclined elliptical path of travel A3. It is important to understand that the three positions illustrated in FIGS. 8-10 are exemplary and that other positions are possible through operation of the adjustment device 94, which may be programmed by the console 44 and/or by Inputs to console 44 and/or input buttons 48 and/or other input buttons such as on the upper end of handle 125 are controlled automatically.

From a comparison of FIGS. 8-10 , it can be seen that exercise machine 20 is advantageously configured to maintain a substantially compact and constant length (in length direction L). The configuration of the various components advantageously occupies a relatively small footprint. The end of rocker arm 92 advantageously does not swing beyond the front of frame 22, thus maintaining a small footprint. Due to the configuration of the stride link configuration illustrated and described above, the paths of travel Bl-B3 are also substantially constant. The rear link including the stride link 78 advantageously does not swing beyond the rear portion of the frame 22, thus maintaining a small footprint. The configuration of the movable handle member 122 and coupler link 126 is advantageous in that the entire path of travel (i.e., the handle member 122 around the handle member-bridge pivot 124 is The swing range) is essentially constant.

Advantageously, the foot pad 90 is located on the pedal member 68 a distance behind the rocker-pedal member pivot 102 to create a more natural vertical height for the paths of travel A1 to A3. This feature, along with travel paths B1-B3, produces a more natural and smooth travel path A1-A3 in all incline settings. Also, the path of travel (arc) along which the inclined link travels as described above slopes upward toward the high incline toward the rearward travel portion. This cuts/adds some extra vertical height to the overall ellipse height when adjusted to the high tilt setting.

11 to 12 illustrate a second example of the exercise machine 20a. The figures only show the state of the bridge 34a of the exercise machine 20a. It should be understood that, in a non-limiting example, the remainder of exercise machine 20a is configured the same as exercise machine 20 shown in FIGS. 1-7 and described above. Like features are referred to using like reference numerals identified with an "a".

Similar to the first example, the exercise machine 20a has a forward support column 30a and a bridge 34a mounted on top of the forward support column 30a, and has a horizontally extending main body 36a with an opposite first and the second arm 38a. The exercise machine 20a has an adjustment device 94a located on the bridge 34a and extending into the mentioned arm 38a on both sides of the active area. Adjustment device 94a is specifically configured to facilitate selectively adjusting and setting the position of rocker arm 92a relative to frame 22a, respectively, thereby changing the oblique shape of the elliptical path of travel, as described above with respect to the first example. As with the first example, the mentioned controller may control the adjustment device 94a based on a stored exercise program or based on operator input.

Similar to the first example, the adjustment device 94a is configured to pivot the first and second tilt links 104a relative to the frame (i.e., about the tilt link-frame pivot 106a) to thereby adjust and set the tilt The position of arm 92a relative to frame 22a, inter alia, adjusts and sets the position of tilt link-rocker pivot 108a relative to frame 22a (ie, about tilt link-frame pivot 106a). In the illustrated example, the adjustment device 94a includes first and second lead screw assemblies 121a, which are swivel devices having a trunnion assembly, particularly at the actuator-bridge pivot 114a. 113a is pivotally coupled to the front end of bridge 34a. Adjustment device 94a further includes first and second guide nut and tube assemblies 125a each having opposite rear ends pivotably coupled to tilt link 104a at actuator-tilt link pivot 118a. Similar to the first example, the actuator-tilt link pivot 118a is offset forward relative to the tilt link-frame pivot 106a and the tilt link-rocker pivot 108a.

Adjustment device 94a also has an actuator, which in the illustrated example is an electric gear motor 120a mounted to the forward portion of bridge 34a and pulley assembly 200 . The gear motor 120a has an output shaft that is rotatably engaged with the pulley assembly 200 . The configuration of the pulley assembly 200 may vary from what is shown so long as it is configured such that operation of the gear motor 120a actuates the first and second lead screw assemblies 121a, as described below. In the illustrated example, the pulley assembly 200 includes: a drive pulley wheel 202 that is coupled to and rotates with the output shaft of the gear motor 120a; a center guide wheel 204 that is driven along the forward portion of the main body 36a; rotatably mounted to the bridge 34a above the pulley wheel 202; a pair of side guide pulley wheels 206 located between and on opposite sides of the drive pulley wheel 202 and the center guide pulley wheel 204; and driven pulley wheels 208, It is coupled to and rotates with a respective lead screw 123a of the lead screw assembly 121a. The pulley assembly 200 further includes a belt 210 wrapped around the drive pulley wheel 202, the capstan wheel 204, the side pulley wheel 206, and the driven pulley wheel 208 such that the drive pulley wheel 202 is connected by the gear motor 120a, as shown. The rotation causes the rest of the pulley wheel to rotate. Rotation of the drive pulley wheel 202 controlled by the mentioned controller as explained above by the gear motor 120 thus causes a corresponding rotation of the driven pulley wheel 208 which in turn rotates the lead nut and tube assembly 125a and causes the The lead nut and tube assembly is extended or retracted along the lead screw 123a. Thus, as those of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate from the above description, operation of the gear motor 120a in a first direction rotates the lead screw 123a, thereby causing the lead nut and tube assembly 125a to move relative to the lead screw 123a and housing 119a. Traveling outwards, thus lengthening the linear actuator 110a, increases the distance between the axes 114a and 118a. Operation of the gear motor 120 in the second, opposite direction causes the lead screw 123a to reversely rotate in the second direction, thereby causing the lead nut and tube assembly 125a to retract inwardly along the lead screw 123a relative to the lead screw housing 119a, The linear actuator 110a is thus shortened, reducing the distance between the axes 114a and 118a. Similar to the first example, due to the relative positions of the tilt link-frame pivot 106a, tilt link-rocker pivot 108a, actuator-bridge pivot 114a, and actuator-tilt link pivot 118a, Extension of the lead nut and tube assembly 125 causes the tilt link 104a to pivot rearwardly along an arc relative to the bridge 34a, thereby causing the tilt link-rocker pivot 108a to pivot along an arc relative to the tilt link-frame The shaft 106a moves rearwardly relative to the frame 22a as shown by the arrow in FIG. 12 . As described above, this increases or enhances the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 during stride motion. Conversely, retracting guide nut and tube assembly 125 pivots tilt link 104a forward in an arc relative to tilt link-frame pivot 106a relative to bridge 34a. This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot 108a forward in an arc relative to the frame 22a. As illustrated and described herein below, this reduces or reduces the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90a during stride motion.

13 and 14 illustrate a third example of the exercise machine 20b. The figures only show the state of the bridge 34b of the exercise machine 20b. It should be understood that, in a non-limiting example, the remainder of exercise machine 20b is configured the same as exercise machine 20 shown in FIGS. 1-7 and described above. Like features are referred to using like reference numerals identified with a "b".

Similar to the first and second examples, the exercise machine 20b has a forward support column 30b and a bridge 34b mounted on top of the forward support column 30b and having a horizontally extending main body 36b having a Opposed first and second arms 38b extend rearwardly therefrom. The exercise machine 20b has an adjustment device 94b located in the bridge 34b and extending on both sides of the active area into the mentioned arm 38b. The adjustment device 94b is specifically configured to facilitate selectively adjusting and setting the position of the rocker arm 92b relative to the frame 22b, respectively, thereby changing the inclined shape of the elliptical path of travel of the footpad 90, respectively, during the stride fitness movement, as herein It will be described further below. Adjustment device 94b may be controlled by a mentioned controller based on stored exercise programs or based on input to console 44 by the operator.

Unlike the first and second examples described above, the adjustment device 94b does not include first and second tilt links for pivotally coupling the rocker arm 92b to the frame 22b. The adjustment device 94b is not configured to pivot the first and second tilt links relative to the frame (ie, about the tilt link-frame pivot 106a). In contrast, adjustment device 94b includes first and second linear actuators 110b, which in the illustrated example include electromechanical linear actuators having: an electric gear motor 120b; a lead screw assembly; 121b, which has a front end fixedly coupled to bridge 34b; and lead nut and tube assembly 125b, which has an upper portion pivotally coupled to rocker arm 92b at adjustment device-rocker arm pivot 300 The relative backend of .

The gear motor 120b, lead screw assembly 121b and lead nut and tube assembly 125b are configured to lengthen or shorten the linear actuator 110b according to input commands from the mentioned controller, which may be based on operation of the console 44 Operator input or based on programming in the mentioned controller. Operation of the gear motor 120b in the first direction rotates the lead screw 123b of the lead screw assembly 121b in the first direction, thereby causing the lead nut and tube assembly 125b to travel outward relative to the lead screw assembly 121b, thus extending the linear Actuator 110b. Operation of the gear motor 120b in the opposite second direction reversely rotates the lead screw 123b in the second direction, thereby causing the lead nut and tube assembly 125b to retract inwardly relative to the lead screw assembly 121b, thus shortening the linear motion. Actuator 110b. Upper portion 96b of rocker arm 92b is coupled to lead nut and tube assembly 125b by bracket 302 . The carriage 302 slides along and is supported by a pair of guides 304, which are shafts that are securely mounted to the arms 38b of the bridge 34b. Each shaft has a smooth outer surface along which the carriage 302 slides as the lead screw 123b rotates. Thus, it will be appreciated that extension of the linear actuator 110b linearly moves the upper portion 96b of the rocker arm 92b rearwardly, thereby moving the adjustment device-rocker arm pivot 300 rearwardly relative to the frame 22b. This increases or enhances the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 during stride motion. Retraction of the linear actuator 110b linearly moves the upper portion of the rocker arm 92b forward, thereby moving the adjustment device-rocker arm pivot 300 forward relative to the frame 22b. This reduces or lowers the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 during stride motion. Unlike the previous examples, the motion of the adjustment device-rocker pivot 300 provided by the linear actuator 110b is linear rather than along an arc.

15 to 17 illustrate a fourth example of the exercise machine 20c. The figures only show the state of the bridge 34c of the exercise machine 20c. It should be understood that, in a non-limiting example, the remainder of exercise machine 20c is configured the same as exercise machine 20 shown in FIGS. 1-7 and described above. Like features are referred to using like reference numerals identified with a "c".

As can be seen from the drawings, the fourth example is similar to the third example, except that the electric gear motor 120c is not located within the arm 38c of the bridge 34c, but is instead mounted to the front portion of the main body 36c of the bridge 34c. The gear motor 120c is operatively coupled to the first and second lead screw assemblies 121c via a gear linkage 400 . More specifically, gear motor 120c has an output shaft with helical threads 402 that provide a worm gear operatively engaged with cross gear 404 such that rotation of the output shaft of gear motor 120c rotates helical threads 402, This in turn causes gear 404 to rotate. Gear 404 is rotatably fixed to drive shaft 406 on either side of gear 402 such that rotation of gear 404 causes rotation of drive shaft 406 . The outer end of the drive shaft 406 is coupled to the lead screw 123c of the lead screw assembly 121c through the helical gear set 408, so that the rotation of the drive shaft 404 causes the rotation of the lead screw 123c. Rotation of the lead screw 123c extends/retracts the lead nut and tube assembly 125c, as shown by the arrow in FIG. 17 and similar to the third example described above, to adjust the position of the foot pad 90 during stride motion. Elliptical path of travel. As shown in FIGS. 15-17 , an example configuration of the gear linkage 400 has first and second lead screws 123c (and corresponding nuts) with opposing threads, respectively, a lead The screw has right-hand threads and the other lead screw has left-hand threads so that operation of the gear motor 120c in one direction causes extension on both sides simultaneously, and so that operation of the gearmotor 120c in the opposite direction causes extension on both sides simultaneously. retract.

18 to 20 illustrate a fifth example of the exercise machine 20d. The figures only show the state of the bridge 34d of the exercise machine 20d. It should be understood that, in a non-limiting example, the remainder of exercise machine 20d is configured similarly to exercise machine 20 shown in FIGS. 1-7 and described above. Like features are referred to using like reference numerals identified with a "d".

The fifth example of the exercise machine 2Od is similar to the fourth example 20c, except that the carriage 502d is supported by a guide comprising a series of telescoping shafts 504, 506, 508 instead of a guide that is an axle. Rotation of the gear motor 120d rotates the gear linkage 500 which in turn rotates the lead screw 123d of the lead screw assembly 121d. This extends or retracts the lead nut and tube assembly 125d depending on the direction of rotation, as described above. Extending or retracting the lead nut and tube assembly 125d moves the position of the adjuster-rocker pivot 510 linearly rearward or forward relative to the frame 22d, as described above and as shown in a comparison of FIGS. 19 and 20 . Movement of carriage 502d is supported by telescoping shafts 504, 506, 508, as shown by comparing Figures 19 and 20 . The number of retractable axes may vary from that shown. The retractable shafts 504, 506, 508 advantageously provide a more compact configuration in which the bracket 502d can be extended beyond and retracted into the arm 38d of the bridge 34d.

Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various examples may include some, all, or none of the enumerated advantages. Other technical advantages may become apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art upon review of the following figures and descriptions. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatus, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, components of systems and equipment may be integrated or separated. In addition, the operations of the systems and devices disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer or other components, and the methods described may include more, fewer or other steps. Additionally, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, "each" means each member of a collection or each member of a subset of a collection.

none

The invention is described with reference to the following figures. The use of the same reference symbols in the drawings represents similar features and similar components. Items illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated otherwise.

[ FIG. 1 ] is a side perspective view of a first non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present invention with certain features removed, such as support columns, base members, and stabilizer covers.

[Fig. 2] It is a rear view with the front side stabilizer cover removed.

[Fig. 3] A side view with the front and rear side covers removed.

[ Fig. 4 ] An opposite side view from which the front and rear side covers and the stabilizer cover are removed.

[ Fig. 5 ] A plan view from which the base member and the stabilizer cover are removed.

[ Fig. 6 ] is an exploded view of a portion of the front side of the exercise machine.

[ Fig. 7 ] is another exploded view of the part illustrated in Fig. 6 .

[ FIG. 8 ] is a schematic diagram showing a low-slope elliptical path of a foot pad traveling on an exercise machine.

[ FIG. 9 ] is a schematic diagram showing a moderately inclined elliptical path of a foot pad traveling on an exercise machine.

[ FIG. 10 ] is a schematic diagram showing a highly inclined elliptical path of a foot pad traveling on an exercise machine.

[ Fig. 11 ] is a front perspective view looking down on a second non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present invention.

[Fig. 12] It is a rear perspective view of the adjustment device of the second example.

[ Fig. 13 ] is a front perspective view looking up at a third non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present invention.

[ Fig. 14 ] is a side sectional view of a third example.

[ Fig. 15 ] is a front perspective view looking down on a fourth non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present invention.

[Fig. 16] It is a rear perspective view of the adjustment device of the fourth example.

[ Fig. 17 ] is a side sectional view of a fourth example.

[ Fig. 18 ] is a front perspective view looking down on a fifth non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present invention.

[ Fig. 19 ] is a side sectional view of a fifth example.

[Fig. 20] is another side view of the fifth example.

Claims (20)

An exercise machine for striding fitness exercise, the exercise machine comprises: a frame; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; first foot pads and a second footpad, wherein the first footpad and the second footpad are configured to move in respective elliptical paths during the stride fitness movement; a first rocker and a second rocker, wherein the first rocker a pedal member and the second pedal member are pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm and move with the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to the frame; and a an adjustment device pivotally coupling the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm to the frame, the adjustment device being configured to actively adjust and set the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, respectively A position relative to the frame whereby an inclination shape of the elliptical paths respectively changes during the stride fitness movement. The exercise machine according to claim 1, which further includes a first tilting link and a second tilting link, the first tilting link and the second tilting link can pivot the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm ground coupled to the frame. The exercise machine of claim 2, wherein each of the first tilt link and the second tilt link is pivotally coupled to the frame at a tilt link-frame pivot, A lever-rocker arm pivot is pivotally coupled to a respective one of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, and is pivotally coupled at an actuator-tilt link pivot. connected to the adjustment device. The exercise machine of claim 3, wherein the adjustment device is configured so that the first tilt link and the second tilt link pivot rearwardly relative to the frame so that the tilt link-rocker pivot is relatively when the frame moves rearwardly, thereby enhancing the sloped shape of the elliptical paths, and wherein the adjustment device is further configured to pivot the first sloped link and the second sloped link forward relative to the frame, This causes the tilt link-rocker pivot to move forward relative to the frame, thereby reducing the tilt shape of the elliptical paths. The exercise machine as claimed in claim 4, wherein the adjustment device includes a first linear actuator and a second linear actuator, and each of the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator has: a first an end pivotally coupled to the frame; and a second end pivotally coupled to a respective one of the first tilt link and the second tilt link. The exercise machine of claim 4, wherein the first pedal member and the second pedal member each have a front end portion pivotally coupled to the first rocker at a rocker arm-pedal member pivot A lower end portion of one of each of the arm and the second rocker arm, so that each of the first pedal member and the second pedal member can be positioned relative to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm. The respective one is pivotally movable relative to the frame such that pivoting of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to the frame causes the first pedal member and the second pedal member to move relative to each other. considerable pivoting and translation of the frame. The exercise machine of claim 4, further comprising a first handle member and a second handle member, the first handle member and the second handle member are pivotably coupled at a respective handle member-bridge pivot Connect to the opposite side of a bridge on the frame. The exercise machine of claim 7, wherein each of the first handle member and the second handle member includes: an upper end that provides a grip for a user performing the stride fitness exercise to manually grasp and a lower end pivotally coupled to a respective coupler link at a handle member-coupler link pivot such that the first handle member and the second handle member and The coupler links each pivot together about the respective handle member-bridge pivot. The exercise machine of claim 8, wherein each of the coupler links has: a front end portion coupled to the first handle member and the first handle member at the handle member-coupler link pivot A respective one of the second handle members; and a rear end portion pivotally coupled to a central portion of the pedal member at a coupler link-pedal member pivot such that each coupling The coupler link is pivotable about the coupler link-pedal member pivot relative to a respective one of the pedal members. The exercise machine of claim 1, wherein each of the first pedal member and the second pedal member has a front end pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm, respectively, and wherein Each of the first pedal member and the second pedal member further has a rear end pivotably coupled to a resistance device. The sports machine as claimed in claim 10, wherein the resistance device comprises a hybrid generator brake. The exercise machine according to claim 10, further comprising a first crank arm and a second crank arm diametrically opposed to each other, wherein each of the first crank arm and the second crank arm has a radially inner end, the The radially inner end is rotatably fixed at a rear portion of the exercise machine to a central shaft coupled to the resistance device. The exercise machine according to claim 12, further comprising a first step link and a second step link, the first step link and the second step link are respectively pivotally coupled to the first step link Radially outer ends of a crank arm and the second crank arm are further pivotally coupled to a tail portion of the first pedal member and the second pedal member, respectively. The exercise machine according to claim 13, which further comprises a first idler link and a second idler link, the first idler link and the second idler link have: a first end, which an idler link-base member pivotally coupled to a base member of the frame; and a second end pivotally at the stride link-idler link pivot Rotationally coupled to a lower end of a respective one of the first stride link and the second stride link. As the exercise machine of claim 1, wherein the adjustment device includes an actuator configured to actively adjust and set the position of the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm relative to the frame, respectively, Thereby changing the inclined shape of the elliptical paths during the stride fitness movement. The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the actuator is one of the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator, and the first linear actuator and the second linear actuator are respectively There is a first end coupled to the frame; and an opposite second end pivotally coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm. The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the actuator comprises an electric motor. The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the actuator includes a bracket having a guide for supporting the extension and shortening of the actuator. The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the adjustment device includes a pulley assembly and a first rotation device and a second rotation device respectively coupled to the pulley assembly and to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm device, and wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the pulley assembly in a first direction, thereby lengthening the first rotation means and the second rotation means, and thereby enhancing the inclined shape of the elliptical paths, and further wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the pulley assembly in a second, opposite direction, thereby shortening the first rotation means and the second rotation means, and thus reducing the sloped shape of the elliptical paths . The exercise machine according to claim 15, wherein the adjusting device includes a gear connecting rod and a first rotating device and a second rotating device respectively coupled to the gear connecting rod and coupled to the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm , and wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the gear linkage in a first direction, thereby lengthening the first rotation means and the second rotation means, and thereby enhancing the inclined shape of the elliptical paths, and Also wherein the actuator is configured to rotate the gear linkage in a second, opposite direction, thereby shortening the first rotation means and the second rotation means, and thus reducing the sloped shape of the elliptical paths.

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