WO2005089882A1

WO2005089882A1 - Exercise apparatus

Info

Publication number: WO2005089882A1
Application number: PCT/NO2005/000085
Authority: WO
Inventors: Ziad Badarneh; Benedict J. M. Hansen; Campbell Ellis; Torbjørn MOLLATT
Original assignee: Ziad Badarneh; Hansen Benedict J M
Priority date: 2004-03-09
Filing date: 2005-03-08
Publication date: 2005-09-29

Abstract

An exercise apparatus having two crank wheel assemblies(4-4', 5-5') with a pair of bar links(10,11) with sliding feet supporting means(12, 13), the crank wheels preferably travel in opposite direction of each other, the exercise apparatus providing a plurality of paths to users feet, for simulating a range of motions, including walking, jogging, running and climbing as the position of the crank wheel assembly bar link axles relative to each other may be selectively changed to alter the path travelled by the feet supports.

Description

EXERCISE APPARATUS

F i e l d o f t h e i n v e n t i o n The present invention relates to exercise equipment, and more specifically to a stationary exercise apparatus providing a plurality of paths to users feet, for simulating a range of motions, including walking, jogging, running and climbing.

B a c k g r o u n d o f t h e i n v e nt i o n

The benefits of regular aerobic exercise are well established and accepted. Because the major population in the western world live close together in towns and cities, far from the countryside and because of inclement weather, time constraints and for other reasons, it is not always possible to walk, jog, run or ski outdoors. Various types of exercise equipment have been developed for use indoors and giving aerobic exercise.

Many types of indoor exercise equipment have been developed for aerobic exercise and to exercise leg muscles commonly used in walking, running, skiing, and other outdoor activities. Such equipment includes treadmills, stepping machines, and various types of sliding machines. Although effective to some extent, each of these machines has disadvantages. Treadmills have the drawback of producing high impact on the user's legs and knees. One approach that minimizes the tear on joints is to use a stair stepper. Stair steppers, however, do not develop all of the muscles commonly used in running. Furthermore, such machines are difficult to use in sprint type exercises. Sliding machines require the user to slide their feet back and forth along a horizontal plane. Combining all the above apparatus as; treadmill, stepper, sliding machine and an indoor training bicycle a person would have good variety of training options for aerobic exercise. This however would require a lot of floor space and would be expensive for a private person's economy.

To give a maximum aerobic exercise, combined with a simulation of walking, jogging and running without straining the users joints and saving floor space, a range of a new type of training machines has been developed. These training machines are often called elliptical trainers or cross trainers. The aim of these trainers is to achieve an elliptical like orbit of users feet during a workout similar to that commonly encountered during walking or running. Since the user's feet never leave the foot rails, minimal impact is produced. The elliptical trainers on the market aim at competing against treadmills and steppers, the motion provided though is an elliptical orbit to the footrests of the apparatus, aiming simulating a walk, jog or running motion.

Several problems, however, have been encountered with designs of the prior art of elliptical and cross trainer machines. One problem with such machines is that the bars or rails, which carry the foot supports and feet, operate by travelling over a relatively long transverse distance. As a result, the exercise machine requires a relatively large area to operate, thereby making the machines less practical for home use. Most conventional apparatus of this kind are designed so that the foot supports move along a set, predefined path. Users of different heights whose stride does not correspond to the predetermined path of the apparatus can find use of the apparatus to be uncomfortable or even impossible. Many apparatus have though some sort of limited means of adjustment of the stride length of the foot supports. The motion is however limited and any adjustments do not provide for any substantial varieties of motions.

There should therefore be a demand for training equipment, which simulate the movement of the human leg and foot, as it naturally would move when walking, jogging, running, skiing, climbing and performing a range of stepping motions.

The present invention solves the orbit of feet supports and platforms quite differently than the above mention art. Through the present invention, a singular piece of equipment may be utilized to simulate different exercise apparatus, including walking, jogging, running, skiing and climbing. No publication regarding the prior art of elliptical machines has been known to show a solution achieving an optimal and simulated natural foot movement, having a plurality of optional motions and with means for easily adjustments of the motions as the present invention does.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is a training apparatus with handles for arm movement and manually or automatically adjustable path of feet supports. These and other advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the drawings and description as follows.

It is an object of the present invention to provide an improved exercise apparatus that provide a plurality of paths to foot supports, the motions similar to that of walking, jogging, running and climbing. The present invention is to provide the above exercising apparatus, which can be selectively adjusted to match the stride of the user, the size of orbit and the type of exercise chosen.

B r i e f s um m ary o f th e i nv e nt i o n

The exercise device of the present invention utilizes a frame configured to be supported on a floor. The frame has two sets of cranks or crank wheel assemblies, which preferably revolves in the opposite direction of each other, which has a first and second bar link with feet supporting portions, adapted to support the user's feet, which are coupled to travel along any form of circular, elliptical or elliptical like, linear or other stepping like paths or orbits. The bar links with feet supports, are engaged at both ends to each of the cranks wheels.

The rotational direction of the cranks relative to each other may vary and determines the types of stride orbit, stepping motion and angle of the feet supports.

The position of the crank wheels set angles relative to each other may be selectively changed to alter the path travelled by the feet supports of the fϊrstand second bars thereby simulate various types of stride path and stepping motion.

The position of the bar link radial position on the crank wheels may be selectively changed to alter the size of path travelled by the feet supports of the first and second bars. In a more specific aspect of the present invention, the distance between the crank wheel assemblies will determine the size and motion of the feet supports.

In a yet another aspect the feet supports are slideable connected through means to the bar links, and when crank wheels are set in motion said means make the feet supports move back and forth on the bar links.

In a still further aspect of the present invention, the feet supports placed on the bar links are free to tilt in a sideways direction traverse to the length of the bars.

In a further aspect of the present invention, a flywheel is mounted on a portion of the frame connected so to rotate as result of the crank movements. The flywheel serves as a momentum-storing device to simulate the momentum of the body during various stepping motions.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, resistance may be applied to the rotation of the flywheel, to make the stepping motion harder or easier to achieve. This resistance may be coordinated with the workout level desired by the user, for instance, a desired heart rate range for optimum caloric expenditure. A heart rate monitor or other sensors may be utilized to sense the desired physical parameter to be optimised during exercise.

The apparatus will have an interface console mounted on a section of the frame, which will include a central display screen as well as a keypad composed of a number of depressible buttons or preferably of a touch screen.

The invention can also be used in a machine for creating force and or movement for example driving a bicycle, rail tricycle, boat etc, or creating energy coupled to a dynamo.

Further inventive steps are disclosed in the claims. B r i e f d e s c r i p t i o n o f t h e d r a w i n g s

The foregoing aspects and many of the advantages of the present invention will be more appreciated and better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Fig. la-b is a schematic drawing of the present invention forming an apparatus for aerobic exercise;

Figs. 2a-b, 3a-b, 4a-b, 5a-i, 6a-i and 7a-d show schematically how the crank wheels and bar links interact to create a plurality of paths for feet supports.

Fig. 8 illustrates means of changing the direction of rotation as illustrated in fig. 7d.

Fig. 9a-e shows schematically how the crank wheels, bar links and foot support interact.

Fig. lOa-d illustrate telescopic bar link.

Fig. 1 la-d and 12a-b shows how a foot support slide on a telescopic bar link.

Fig. 13a-c shows schematically how the crank wheels, telescopic bar link and foot support interact.

Fig. 14a-h shows schematically a full rotation of crank wheels with telescopic bar link and sliding foot support, the rotation shown at 45 degrees intervals.

Fig. 15 shows schematically the exercise apparatus of the present invention with the means for making adjustments so to gain desired motion.

Fig. 16 shows a block schematic of an exercise apparatus according to the present invention. Fig. 17a shows a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of an exercise apparatus according to the present invention, fig 17b showing only frame and crank wheel assembly. Fig. 18a- 18b shows a side and top view of the exercise apparatus shown in fig. 17.

Fig. 19a and 19b show the linkage and drive mechanism of handlebars.

Fig. 20a shows a "see through" top view of a bar link of the exercise apparatus shown in figs. 17-18, fig. 20b shows section XXb-XXb of bar link shown in fig. 20a.

Fig. 21 shows a "see through" side view of a bar link of exercise apparatus shown in figs. 17-18.

Fig.22 and 23a-23b show gearing of shaft and crank wheels of the apparatus according to the invention.

Fig. 24a shows a transmission for exercise apparatus of the present invention, and fig. 24b shows section XXIIb- XXHb of the transmission shown in fig. 24a.

Fig. 25a-25b show how the transmission shown in fig. 24, works.

Fig. 26 illustrates crank wheels rotating in opposite directions.

Fig. 27 illustrates degrees of bar link settings as shown in figs. 28a-28i.

Fig. 28a-28i illustrates motion of feet supports at different settings of bar links.

Fig. 29 illustrates crank wheels rotating in the same direction.

Fig. 30 illustrates degrees of bar link settings as shown in figs. 31a-31i. Fig.31a-31i illustrates motion of feet supports at different settings of bar links.

Fig.32 shows a perspective view of an exercise apparatus according to the present invention.

Fig.33 shows a perspective view of a crank wheel with gearing means for axles connecting feet supporting bars.

Fig.34 shows a schematic layout of exercise apparatus with the inventive crank wheels shown in fig 33.

Fig.35 shows an exploded view of the main components of crank wheel shown in fig. 33.

Fig.36 shows a perspective view of one side of the crank wheel assembly, of which in fig.37 is shown in an exploded view.

Fig.39 shows a side view of the crank wheel, fig.40 showing section XL-XL of fig.39.

Fig.41 shows in perspective an exploded view of the crank wheel gear assembly.

Fig.42 shows section view XLII-XLII of fig.40.

Figs.43 and 44 shows mechanism for activating adjustment of transmission shown in figs.40-42.

Detailed description of the invention

Figs, la and lb is a schematic representation of one embodiment for the purpose of explanation of the present invention. The apparatus 1 of the present invention includes a floor engaging frame 2 incorporating a forward post 3 extending initially upward and forward. A pair of cranks or crank wheels 4-4' and 5-5' are located on the frame 2 for rotation about axis 6 and 7. The cranks are linked together by means 9 which makes both cranks move in the same or opposite direction at the same pace, the means being a belt, chain or by shafts, axles and gears. To the cranks bar links 10 and 11 are connected, which carries feet supporting means as platforms 12 and 13 to travel along various orbits or paths, as described more fully below relative to fig. 17. The barlinkagelO and 11 are either made of one piece as shown in fig. 3 or made of two or more pieces having sliding or telescopic function, he platforms are preferably slideable along the bar linkages where the rotation of the cranks, make the platforms move forward and backwards increasing the orbit and path of the bar linkages and cranks to the platforms. The apparatus also have handlebars, 14 and 15, which have a tilting motion and or have fixed handles 16. In addition, the apparatus has a flywheel 20 with a braking system (not shown on this figure) for imparting a desired level of resistance to the rotating cranks wheels 4 and 5, which is the level of effort required by the user of the apparatus. The apparatus will have an interface console 17 mounted on the post bar upper section of frame 3 between the handles 14 and 15, which will include a central display screen as well as a keypad composed of a number of depressible buttons or of a touch screen, as discussed in greater detail below. To use the apparatus of the present invention, the user stands on the platforms while gripping the handlebars for stability and workout. The user imparts a downward stepping action on one of the platforms thereby causing the crank wheels to rotate and the handles to tilt.

The following describes the foregoing and other aspects of the present invention in greater detail.

Figs. 2-7 show schematically how the cranks wheels and bar linkages interact, according to one embodiment of the invention, showing one side of the crank wheel mechanism of the apparatus it's related to. The crank wheels 30 and 31 are connected to each other so they rotate in opposite directions. The figure suggests the connection 33 being a belt or chain, but can also be an axle with gears as illustrated in fig. 15. Fig. 3 show one bar link 35 of the apparatus connected to the crank wheels. The point of connection is numbered 36 and 37. At 36 the bar link is freely rotationally linked to the crank wheel 30. At the other end of the bar link the connecting point of the crank wheel is rotational and slideable fixed in a slit 38 in the bar link. When one of the crank wheels are set in motion the crank arm 37 will slide back and forth in the slit as it rotates. The end of the bar link fixed at 36 will move in a circular motion. The other end of the bar link will follow this motion if the two cranks are in line horizontally as suggested in fig. 3a. The whole length of the bar link will move horizontally with the circular motion of the crank wheel 30. Positioning the crank wheel fixing points at different degrees relative each other will form a variety of different paths and orbits for example as suggested in fig. 3b where a relative positioning is 180 degrees. As illustrated by fig. 4a the crank wheel 31 suggest bar link fixing points at positions 401- 40VEII relative to fixing point 39 on crank wheel 30, but it should be understood that any position of the wheel circumference may be used, which will give alternate movement of the bar link. As suggested by fig. 4b the radius 41 of the crank wheel, or length of crank arm also will influence the travel and movement of the bar link. A preferred embodiment of the invention would include a system where the radius of bar links fixing positions on the crank wheels, are adjustable, thus the radius 41 variable. A mechanism illustrating how this may be done is disclosed below in figs. 33-43.

Moving back to fig. 3a the crank wheel fixing points are at 180 degrees relative to each other, the position used as an example in the following figs. 5a-5i. Figs. 5a-5i show a full rotational motion at 45-degree intervals of the cranks wheels where they turn in opposite direction as indicated by arrows 42 and 43. The bar link rotate in a circular motion 40 at crank wheel 30, but at the opposite end of bar link 35 forms a totally different orbital shape 40'. At mid section 44 a longitudinal elliptical shaped orbit 45 is created as shown on fig. 5i, and which is an elliptical like shaped orbit of which is desirable to utilize in an exercise apparatus.

Fig. 6a-6i show an example where the bars fixing point to the crank wheels are set at 90 degrees relative to each other. As illustrated in fig. 6i a full rotation gives the mid section 44 an elliptical like shaped orbit 46 but with an inclination compared to path 45 shown in fig. 5i. Implementing this system with two crank wheels in a training machine is apparent from what is suggested in fig. 1. In such an apparatus it would be favourable to vary the positioning of the fixing points of the bar links to the crank wheels as suggested in figs. 4a and 4b, to vary the distance between the crank wheels, and also be able to change the direction of rotation of at least one of the crank wheels.

As illustrated in fig. 7a-7b the rotation of the crank wheels of the preferred embodiment of the invention, is in opposite directions.

Fig. 7c shows the crank wheels rotate in the same direction and which represents a variation within the invention.

Fig. 7d show a combination where one of the crank wheels can change direction of rotation. As explained above the rotation of the crank wheels are synchronized by means of belts, chains or shafts, axles and gears, here illustrated by line 50. If one of the crank wheels were to have a changeable rotational direction, a transmission 51 would be necessary as indicated on fig. 8. This transmission can either have manually means of shifting, or be connected with a servo, which change the gears in the transmission so to achieve the desired direction of the crank wheels. This technology should be apparent to those familiar with gears and transmissions, thus will not be to further extent explained here but a preferred embodiment is illustrated relative to figs. 22-25. To sum up so far; the bar links fixing point to the crank wheels, being the degrees relative to each other, the size of the crank wheels and or radius of the bars fixing point relative to each other and the direction of the crank wheels relative each, determines the path and motion of the bar links. The adjustments of the crank wheels rotational direction, crank wheels relative position to each other affecting the positioning of bar linkages, and the distance between each crank wheels and bar links fixing points, will in a high end and preferred exercise apparatus be automatically adjustable by the user. The user may thereby alter the inclination of the bar links and foot supporting means, and thus, the types of foot motion experienced by the user. This is explained in more details below. On an exercise apparatus the bar links will have mounted means of feet supports 12 -13 as indicated on fig. 1, also referred to as platforms. A main feature of an exercise apparatus having the two crank wheels turning in opposite directions is to have the platforms slide on or relative to the bar links. The object of this is to make the stride length of the apparatus as versatile in size as possible and minimizing the size of the crank wheels and the length of the bar links, thus the overall size of the apparatus.

Fig. 9 shows schematically two crank wheels 60 and 61 turning in the opposite direction of each other. The bar link 62 being fixed at 64 and 65 as previously explained. A foot support, a platform 63 is slideable fixed to the bar link on rails and wheels or in an otherwise obvious manner so to achieve a sliding motion along the bar link. At each end of the bar link there is fixed wheels 66 and 67 parallel to the length of the bar link. A wire or belt 70 is fastened to the platform 63 and tread round the wheels 66 and 67 and fixed to a crank wheel at point 65. Rotation of the crank wheels, in direction of arrows 73 and 74, is created when a down and forward force is applied to the platform. Fig. 9a- 9d show a full rotation at 90 degrees intervals of the bar link fixing points. The rotation of crank wheel 61 is in the opposite direction of crank wheel 60. In case of fig. 9a the wire 70 is pulled in the direction of arrows 80 and 81, pulling the platform forward ending at the most forward position as shown in fig. 9b. Continuing the rotation of the crank wheels as shown in fig. 9c, the platform is pulled backwards along the bar link as indicated by arrows 82 and 83, continuing to the furthermost backward position as shown in fig. 9d. Fig. 9e shows the elliptical path or orbit 87 created as result of the size of crank wheels and positioning of bar link and movement of platform. The path created and shown in fig. 9 is to be understood as an example and that any variety of elliptical or elliptical like patterns and paths can be created taken in to account what has been shown and explained regarding the earlier figures and what will be shown below, especially regarding figs. 28 and 31.

Varying the positioning of the platform along the bar link and the point of connection to the wire, as indicated by dotted line 88 will give additional variations of the path or orbit created. The bar links connected to the crank wheels of an exercise apparatus according to the invention may preferably be of a telescopic type. As shown in fig. 10 the bar link 90 is made of two bar pieces 91 and 92. The movement of the bar pieces is illustrated as the rotation of the crank wheels through fig. 10a- lOd is in steps of 90 degrees.

Even with telescopic bar links the exercise apparatus according to the invention will have sliding platforms. Several technical solutions may be used for making this happen and of which some principles are shown in figs. 11-12. Fig. 1 la-1 lb show a solution where a bar link is divided in two bar pieces 101 and 102. Bar 102 is toothed along one side 103. A gear 104 is rotational fixed to one end of bar 101 and is connected to the teeth of 103. A first wheel 105 is connected to the gear 103 and a second wheel 106 is placed at the other end of bar 101. Round the two mentioned wheels is placed a wire 107. To the wire is fixed a platform 108 at point 109, which is slideable relative to the bar 101. The longitudinal movement between the two bars will turn the wheels 105 and 106 so the wire pulls the platform back and forth along track on bar 101. Moving the bar 102 as indicated by arrow 112 on fig. 1 la the platform 108 will move as shown on fig. lib.

Fig. llc-lld show a solution avoiding teeth and gears. Wheels 105 and 106 are rotational fixed to bar 101, which is slideable fixed relative to bar link 102. A wire 107 runs round the wheels 105 and 106. The platform 108 is slideable fixed to bar 101 and fixed to the wire 107, which again is fixed to bar 102 at point 110. The longitudinal movement between the two bars will as mentioned above turn the wheels so the wire pulls the platform along track on bar 101. Moving the bar as indicated by arrow 112 on fig. 1 lc will move the platform as shown on fig. lid.

Fig. 12a-12b illustrates in more detail a telescopic bar link according to the invention. A top bar piece 120 is slideable connected to a lower bar piece 121. A platform 122 is slideable connected to the top bar, on tracks and wheels or the like, and fixed to a wire or belt 123 which runs round two wheels 124 and 125 placed at each end of the top bar link. At one point 126 the wire or belt is fixed to the bottom bar link. A slideable movement between the bar links will pull the platform backwards and forwards along the top bar link. As shown in fig. 13a-13c the rotation of crank wheels 130 and 131 as indicated by arrows on figures, will make the bars 132 and 133 slide along each other. This makes the bottom bar 133 pull the wire 134, moving the platform 135 in directions indicated by arrow 136. Fig. 13b and 13c show the platform at its end positions.

As explained regarding figs. 3-8 an angle of the platform throughout a rotation and an inclination of the path created through an orbit is preferred as to the "horizontal" elliptic path shown and created using the set up as shown in figs. 9-13, as shown mainly for explanatory reasons.

Fig. 14a-14h show the system according to the invention when the crank wheels, or more correctly the crank wheels connection point to the bar links, are offset at 90 degrees. Fig. 14a-h show a full rotation of the cranks, moving in opposite directions as indicated by arrows 137 and 138. Note the platforms changing of angle through the full orbit, simulating a motion of a foot walking or running. Examples of paths are shown below in figs. 28 and 31.

As earlier explained, the size and shape of path or orbit, and angle of platform relies mainly on the set angle and relative position of the crank wheels, the diameter of crank wheels (crank arm), length of the bar link, distance between the crank wheels and rotational direction of the crank wheels. The basic however is the set angle between the two crank wheels, which defines the shape of path, and angle of platforms during a full rotation or orbit.

The ability of adjusting the exercise apparatus to optimise the motion according to the users desire is one of the main objects of the invention. Fig. 15 shows schematically an exercise apparatus with bar links 140-141 and crank wheels 142-142'-143-143'. The distance 144 between the crank wheels is adjustable. The means corresponding the drive between both crank wheels is in length adjustable and is suggested to be a telescopic drive shaft 145. On an exercise apparatus the distance may be set or adjustable for example by motoring means 146. To adjust the relative position of the bar links fixing points to the crank wheels, as earlier explained relative to fig. 4, at least one of the crank wheels must at the time of adjustment be independently rotational of the other crank wheel. This requires a gear and or clutch system, indicated at 150, which disengages the drive shaft between the two crank wheels at time of adjustment. To rotate the crank wheel to the correct set angle an electric motor 151 may be connected to one of the crank wheels, here 143,143'. A sensor 152 will measure the position of the crank wheels, which are connected to a CPU and means for user input, which is described in greater detail below relative to fig. 16. A transmission 153 is also connected to one of the crank wheels on order to change the direction of rotation. The gears in the transmission are preferably motor assisted.

An exercise apparatus incorporating all above-mentioned functions is rather advanced and would require means for easy operation by the user. Fig. 16 shows a block schematic of the apparatus according to the present invention, showing crank wheels 160 and 161, which are in connection with bar link 162 and platform 163 (only one shown). The control means is preferably an interface console 159 which consists of a computer (CPU) 164, with installed computer programmes, in the which the user controls from input means 165 as button clusters, keypads or keyboards and display means 166 for example a LCD screen. The display can also be of touch screen type, eliminating the need for separate input means. From the interface console the user can input data for adjusting the distance between the crank wheels. A signal will be given from the CPU to the adjustment means for example a motor 166 which will adjust the crank wheels to desired distance. A sensor 167 will monitor and give feedback to the CPU, which show active information on the display means. In a similar manner the user may adjust the angle of the bar links by adjusting the relative angle between the crank wheels bar link fixing points. A motor 168 will be in connection with one of the crank wheels for rotation of cranks to the desired angles. A sensor 167 will monitor and give feedback to the CPU of the angle values. The direction of rotation of the crank wheels relative to each other may also be adjusted. This is done by signalling means for changing gears in a transmission 169, which is in connection to one of the crank wheels. The platforms slide along the bar links, but this action may be adjusted if a servo or motor 170 is connected to the wire and pulley system on the bar links. The apparatus of present invention includes a system for selectively applying a braking or retarding force on the rotation of the crank wheels through for example a eddy current brake system 171 as known from prior art and which today is used on exercise apparatus on the market today. It is desirable to monitor the speed of the flywheel or the crank wheels so as to measure the virtual distance travelled by the user of the present apparatus and also to control the level of workout experienced by the user. Any standard method of measuring the speed of the flywheels may be utilized. For instance, an optical or magnetic strobe wheel may be mounted on a disk, or other rotating members of the present apparatus. The rotational speed of the strobe wheel may be monitored by an optical or magnetic sensor 167 to generate an electrical signal related to such rotational speed and processed by the computer 164.

It should be apparent from the above described that on a screen, for example a touch screen, as part of the apparatus of present invention, a menu system and layout of choices and adjustments would at least show;

- Paths of motion or style of training as: walking, running, jogging, climbing etc. - Individual adjustment, angle of, distance between and direction of rotation of crank wheels. - level of resistance and other prior art adjustments regarding workout levels, burn rates, heartrates/puls etc.

Fig. 17a shows an exercise apparatus according to the invention, where the main features as disclosed in the above description and figures are present. Two crank wheel assemblies 201 and 202 are fitted on a floor-engaging frame 200. Each of the crank assemblies 201 and 202, consist of three crank wheels 201'-201'" and 202'-202'". The crank assemblies are connected with two bar links 203 and 204. Bar link 203 is positioned between crank wheels 201' and 201" in the front part of the apparatus and between crank wheels 202' and 202' ' in the rear part, bar link 204 positioned between crank wheels 201" and 201'" in the front and between crank wheels 202" and 202'" in the rear part. Through the end section of each bar link, axles 205-205', and 206-206' are fixed between the crank wheels as shown in fig. 17b. In fig. 17b is also visible tracks 207-207'" and 208-208'" which allow a variation of the radius of the crank wheels by moving axles 205-205', and 206-206' within the mentioned tracks. This is to vary the size of paths available from the exercise apparatus as indicated in above fig. 4b. Number 250 show a flywheel which is affected by an electro magnet according to an eddie current system (251, fig 18b) and belts 252 and 252' connecting flywheel 250 with crank wheels 201' and 201'".

Fig 18a shows a side view of the apparatus, fig. 18b showing a top view. As is further disclosed in figs. 17 and 18 the bar links 203 and 204 consist of two bar pieces; top bars 210, 211 and lower bars 212 and 213. These work in the manner shown in figs. 12 - 14. Fig. 20a shows a "see through" view of the bar link 204. Fig. 20b shows section XXb-XXb of bar link 204 of the bar link shown in fig. 20a. The bar link pieces 212 and 213 are slideable attached relative to each other. A belt 216 is "wrapped" around top bar 212, which at both ends has cylindrical rollers 219 and 220 where the belt 216 is tensioned to run around. To the belt means the foot support 222 is fixed. Axles 205' and 206' connects the bar link to the crank wheels preferably using slide or ball bearings 226 and 227. As shown in fig. 21, lower bar link 213 is fixed to a slide member 230, which is slideable connected to a rail 231 fixed within the upper bar link 212. Belt 216 is connected to the lower bar piece 213 at connecting part 233.

As is shown on figs 17-18 the exercise apparatus has handles 235 and 236, which are located at a forward part of the apparatus frame 200. The handles are hinged to linkages 237, 237' and 238, 238', which again are hinged to the frame, the linkages forming a parallelogram. Linkage 237 and 238 are connected with arms 239 and 240, which are engaged with bearings at axis 242 of crank wheel assembly 201. Fig. 19a and 19b shows a detail at crank wheel 201 ' and 201'" where the arm 239 and 240 making handles 235 and 236 in to positions. The arms 239 and 240 are connected to discs 244 and 245 for example on bearings, the discs being fixed off centre to axis 242. When the axle within crank wheels 201' and 201 '", and discs 245 and 244 rotates, the arms 239 and 240 is given a pulsating, back and forth rhythm which then is transmitted to linkage 237-237' and 238-238'. The motion is illustrated by arrow 246 on fig. 18a. As shown on fig. 17, the two crank wheel assemblies 201 and 202 are connected together with shafts 260 and 261, which makes the crank wheels, turn at the same speed, the principle similar as shown in fig. 15. The apparatus may only have one shaft as indicated on fig. 15.

Fig. 22 shows schematically shaft 260 where at each end is fixed with gears, 262 and 263, which again are engaged with gears 264 and 265. Gears 264 and 265 is fixed to axles of crank wheels 201 ' and 202', the shaft 260 synchronizing the rotation of both crank assemblies 201 and 202 thus in opposite directions. Dotted box 270 indicates gearing means which is further explained below with regards to figs. 24-25. In order to make the crank assemblies turn in the same direction the shaft 260 has an optional gear 266, which replaces gear 263. Gear 263 and 266 is located on a telescopic end part 267 of the shaft 260 which again is connected to means 268, preferably motor driven, which make the shaft change its engagement to gear 265 between gear 263 and 266. Fig. 23a show engagement of gears making crank assemblies turn in opposite directions, fig. 23b show engagement of gears making crank assemblies turn in the same direction.

As indicated in above figs. 18b and 22-23, the exercise apparatus has gearing means 270, as disclosed in figs.24-25, connected to the shaft 260 in order to turn at least one of the crank assemblies independently of the other for the path and motion setting as illustrated in above figs.4 -8, and in the following figs. 26-31. Fig. 24a-24b show shaft 260 having gears 271 and 272 located in the centre of ring gears 273 and 274. Between gears 271 - 272 and ring gears 273 and 274 is located another set of gears, 275 and 276, gears 271 - 272 acting as sun gears, gears, 275 and 276 acting as planetary gears. The planetary gears, connects the sun gears with the ring gears 273-274. Through both planetary gears an axle 277 is fitted,, the axle 277 fitted with bearings 278-279 so being independent of any rotation of the planetary gears. Ring gear 273 is fixed relative to the exercise apparatus frame; ring gear 274 may be turned so to adjust the crank wheel settings but fixed when settings are done. The ring gear 274 is fixed and or connected to means which can turn the ring gear, the means being as indicated on fig. 24a a lever 280, or as shown on figs. 24b and 25a-25b, a gear 281, the lever 280 or gear 281 preferably connected to motoring means 282 and 283, which again allows the user to control the settings from the interface console 159 as shown on fig 16, motoring means 282 and 283 represented on fig. 15 as 151 and 168 on fig. 16. When drive shaft 260 is set in motion planetary gears 275 and 276 will revolve within the ring gears 273 and 274 as indicated with arrow 284, keeping any part of the shaft 60 on either side of the gears in the same rotational direction and speed, indicated by arrows 285 and 286. Turning of ring gear 274 as indicated by arrow 288 rotates gear 276 which again rotates gear 272 and part of shaft 260, 260' as indicated by arrow 287. Gear 276 does not revolve round gear 272 as shown in fig. 25 during this operation as it is kept in place through axle 277 which is held by gear 275 being static between ring gear 273 and gear 271 as part of shaft 260, 260" now also static.

Crank wheel assembly 201 is therefore rotateable independently of crank wheel 202 in order to adjust the bar links. Once the settings of the crank wheels are made through turning of ring gear 274 to desired position the crank wheels are again connected together in order to rotate at the same speed.

Motions and paths provided by the exercise apparatus according to the present invention are virtual unlimited within a range suitable for aerobic exercises. As earlier described setting of one crank wheel assembly relative to the other and the direction of the cranks rotation are crucial factors, which determine the shape and motion of the foot supports.

The prime object of the invention is to provide for a plurality of walking and running motions, which the user can choose from and vary during exercise. As disclosed in fig.

4a the orientation of the fixing point of the bar links to the crank wheels relative to each other is variable round a full 360 degrees. Rotating one of the crank wheels whilst the other remains fixed gives a variation of the positioning of the bar links resulting in a variation of motions provided of the apparatus.

Fig. 26 illustrates one side of crank assemblies 201 and 202 rotating in opposite directions. The bar link 204 is in a neutral setting, her defined as a relative position between the cranks at 0°. Fig.27 show a "dial" 300 where a number of peripheral positions are traced, illustrating different positions on a crank wheel of one bar link end position relative to the other bar link end position. Each position showed in fig. 27 results in a motion and path, which is shown in figs. 28a-28i. Position 302 at 0° results in motion 302' shown in figure 28a. The lines, 301 illustrate the position and angle of one foot support during a full revolution. Successively results of motion at position 303 at 30° is shown as 303' in fig. 28b, position 304 at 60° is shown as 304' in fig. 28c, position 305 at 90° is shown as 305' in fig. 28d, position 306 at 120° is shown as 306' in fig. 28e, position 307 at 150° is shown as 307' in fig. 28f, position 308 at 180° is shown as 308' in fig.28g, position 309 at 270° is shown as 309' in fig. 28h and position 310 at 330° is shown as 310' in fig. 28i. As one will see, the foot support angle changes through a revolution making a toe-heel simulation. The most attractive motions providing a toe-heel motion is at degrees from 30° -150° as shown in figs 28b-28f. A flat or flat like angle of the feet supports is available round 180° as shown in fig. 28g. Figs. 28h-28i show a motion where the foot supports has a downward tilt and might be awkward for the user, but still an interesting motion available. As is apparent from figs. 28a-28i, when increasing toe- heel motion, the motion is shorter than a flat motion of the feet supports.

When the crank wheel assemblies 201 and 202 turn in the same direction the motions and paths created are dramatically different from what is created when crank wheel assemblies turn in opposite directions. Fig. 29 illustrates one side of crank assemblies 201 and 202 rotating in the same direction. The bar link 204 is shown in a neutral setting, her defined as a relative position between the cranks as 0 degrees. Fig. 30 show a "dial" 320 where a number of peripheral positions are traced, illustrating different positions on a crank wheel of one bar link end position relative to the other bar link end position. Each position showed in fig. 30 results in a motion and path, which is shown in figs. 31a-31i. Position 322 at 0° results in motion 322' shown in fig. 31a. The lines, 321 illustrate the position and angle of one foot support during a full revolution. Successively results of motion at position 323 at 30° is shown as 323' in fig. 31b, position 324 at 60° is shown as 324' in fig. 31c, position 325 at 90° is shown as 325' in fig. 3 Id, position 326 at 150° is shown as 326' in fig. 31e, position 327 at 180° is shown as 327' in fig. 31f, position 328 at210° is shown as 328' in fig. 31g, position 329 at 270° is shown as 329' in fig. 31h and position 330 at 300° is shown as 330' in fig. 31i. As disclosed from the figs. 31 a- 31 i is that when the crank wheel assemblies 201 and 202 turn in the same direction incline and decline paths are provided, incline provided from 30°- 90°, decline from 270°-330°. An "eight" shape like path is created between 90° and 270°, whilst round 0° a circular shape is made.

Fig. 32 shows the exercise apparatus as disclosed .in figs. 17- 18 where a cover 338 is placed over the frame and moving parts. An interface console 340, as explained above relative to fig. 16 and number 159, is located in the forward part of the apparatus between handles 235 and 236 preferably as a touch screen as indicated.

The following figs. 33 to 43 will disclose how adjusting the radial positioning of the bars for feet support on the crank wheels can be done mechanically, the principle disclosed above in the description and illustrated in fig. 4b. The crank 350 as shown on fig. 33 is directly suitable for an exercise apparatus with the configuration as illustrated in figs, la-lb, 15 and 34. The training apparatus on fig. 34 has two crank wheels 350' and 350" of type shown in figs. 33-43. Figs. 33-35 disclose crank wheel 350 has two wheels 351, 352 connected together by a transmission device 355, supported by frame piece 356, which is a fixed part of any training apparatus frame utilising the said crank wheel. The transmission device 355 is configured to change the orientation of the axles 358, 359 which connects bars 360, 361 shown in fig. 34, or any member for carrying feet supports as shown in a number of figs, as described above. Fig. 34 shows a variation of apparatus shown in fig la and lb, crank wheels 350' and 350" connected by a belt 362 in a manner as shown in fig. 2a or by a shaft as shown in figs. 17-18 and 22- 25. Bars 360, 361 are connected to both crank wheels 350', 350" and have feet supports 363, 364 with slide function as illustrated in figs. 11-14 and 20-21. A flywheel 365 is connected to crank wheel 350' outer wheel part similar to 351, 352, by means of a belt 366. The apparatus would preferably have moving handles as indicated on fig. 34 by numerals 368 and 369, connected to a motion transmitter 353 which connects to on of the crank wheel with for instance a belt 354. Fig. 35 shows the crank wheel main components, frame 356, transmission device 355 and one of two outer crank wheels, 351. Transmission device 355 is located within the frame 356 main crank axle 370 connecting the two wheels 351 and 352. The axles 358, 359 are adjustable in slots 371, 372, as indicated by arrow 373. Fig. 36 and 37 shows the inside mechanics of wheel 352. Axle 359 is fixed to a leaver 380, which is hinged at one location 382 on the inner surface of wheel 352 and fixed to a shaft and gear 392 of the transmission device. Fig. 37 shows an exploded view of the assembly with inner leaver arm 384 rotateable connected to arm 386. Arm 388 is rotateable connected to wheel and linked to axle 359 and arm 386. A rotation of gear 392 turns leaver arm 386 thus moving axle 359 within slot 372.

A person skilled in the art will see that a rotational motion of gears 392 and 391 relative to gear 390 is possible to be transmitted to other mechanical solutions for changing the position of axles 358 and 359. One could for instance use worm gears as shown on fig. 38, which would replace the leaver system 380 shown. Worm gear 374 is connected to gear 378, which is fixed to gear 393. Activating gears guides axle 359 in slots 376, 376'.

Fig. 40 show section XL-XL of the inventive crank device as shown on fig. 39. The transmission device 355 is located within frame 356. Axle 370 is located in the centre and connects wheels 352 and 351, the axle being fixed with a gear 390. On each side of gear 390 are rotational located gears and shafts 391 and 392, which are fixed to leaver arms 383 and 384. As the exploded view in fig. 41 show and the section XLϋ-XLII of fig. 40 shown in fig. 42, each of the gears 390, 391, 392 are connected with a set of smaller gears 393-393'"", 394-394'"", 395-395'"", these gears positioned in six groups on axles 96-96* encircling gears 390, 391, 392. Gears 394-394'"", 395-395'"" are also connected to circular toothed surfaces within fixed frame pieces 401 and 402. Gears 393-393'"" are connected with a circular toothed surfaces within a leaver gear 402. Numerals 404, 405, 406-406' shown on fig. 41 indicate spacers. The transmission 355 as shown and described above allows a rotational adjustment of gear 390 relative to gears 391 and 392 independent of speed of gears 392 and 393 at time of adjustment. In a position where crank axle 370 is held static, turning leaver 400 as indicated by arrow 407 revolves gears 393-393'"", 394-394"*" and 395-395"*", gears 394-394'"" and 395- 395'"" forcing gears 391 and 392 turn relative to gear 390 in the same direction as leaver 400, opposite direction of gear 390. This principle also utilised above relative to solution disclosed in figs. 24 and 25. As mentioned the adjustment of axles 358 and 359 can be done independent of speed of gears and thus may be done during revolution of crank wheels and an ongoing exercise session of an exercise apparatus utilising the invention. The leaver 400 would be in connection with some part of the frame so to lock it in desired positions. The mechanism for this could either be manually operated or assisted by a motor or other automated means. Fig. 43 shows schematically a crank device according to the invention where leaver 400 is guided in a track 410 fixed to the frame 356, and lockable in any position here shown using a bolt and screw mechanism 411. Fig. 44 show a principle where the leaver 410 is in connection with a threaded bolt or worm gear 412 which is connected with gearing means and a motor 413, preferably of electric type. This allows for a solution where the motor is operated from the interface console, and allows adjustment of crank wheel configuration during an ongoing exercise.

While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it would be appreciated that various changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

In the claims feet-supporting means should be understood as all kind feet pads, platforms and other devices for apparatus made for placing feet and stepping or otherwise moving the feet for turning of a crank wheel.

Claims

C l a i m s: The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:

1.

An exercise apparatus to simulate various types of walking, jogging, running, climbing and other stepping motions, comprising;

- a frame having a first and second rotational crank wheel assembly parallel with a first and second axis transverse to the overall length of the frame defined thereon, the frame configured to be supported on a floor, each crank assembly comprise of at least two crank wheels with crank axles and where there are drive means between the two crank assemblies transferring any rotational motion of the first and or second crank assemblies;

- a pair of bar links with where at each end or at any two places longitudinal to the frame are rotationally attached to crank axles on the crank wheels;

- a pair of feet supporting means, which are slideable, connected to each of the bar links;

- a flywheel with braking means connected to at least one of the crank assemblies;

- a pair of handles linked to means transforming the rotational movement of the crank assemblies to pivoting movement of the handles;

thus enabling a plurality of paths of which make a toe heel motion to foot supports and provide incline and decline motion to feet supports, during a revolution of the crank assemblies. (Fig- 1)

2.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drive means, which connect the crank wheel assemblies, make the crank wheels rotate in opposite direction of each other.

3.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the drive means, which connect the crank wheel assemblies, make the crank wheels rotate in the same direction of each other.

4.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 - 3, wherein at least one of the crank wheel assemblies have means to rotational adjust independently relative to the other.

5.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 4, where at least one of the crank wheels have means for changing the direction of rotation, the means being a transmission with a manually or motorized shift mechanism.

6.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1-3, wherein at least one of the crank wheel assemblies have means to adjust radial position of crank axle to which bar links are connected.

7.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 6, wherein in the centre of crank wheel assemblies has a transmission consisting of gears, which transmits a rotational motion independently of crank wheel rotation, to means for adjusting crank axle position.

8. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the transmission connects to leaver arms which again is connected to crank arm axles, the crank arm axles slideable in tracks on the crank wheels.

9.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission connects to worm gears which again is connected to a crank arm axles, the crank arm axles slideable in tracks on the crank wheels.

10.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 4, where the means for adjusting the orientation of the bar link axles on one of the crank wheel assemblies by rotating independently of the other crank wheel assembly, is a motor connected to one of the crank wheel assemblies and a clutch system connected to the common drive means.

11.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the drive means which connect the crank wheel assemblies is a gearing mechanism which allows a rotational adjustment of one of the crank wheel assemblies independently of the other, the means preferably assisted by a motor.

12.

An exercise apparatus according to claims 4, 10-11, wherein adjusting one crank wheel assembly off set the position of the crank axles relative to each other and relative a circle, this defining an angle of which; - at 0 degrees the crank wheels and axles are in the same position relative to a circle, - at 180 degrees the crank axles are at opposite position relative to a circle, - at 90 degrees the crank axles are off set at 90 degrees relative to a circle, the adjustment possible through 360 degrees.

13.

An exercise apparatus according to claims 1-3, wherein the bar links at one end has a slit where the crank axles are rotational and slideable.

14.

An exercise apparatus according to claims 1-3, wherein each of the bar links are made of two parts, a top and lower part, or in a telescopic fashion, the parts slideable fixed to each other and where each bar is rotationally linked to axles on both the crank wheel assemblies;

15.

An exercise apparatus according to claims 1-3 and 14, where the bar links have tracks where feet supporting means are slideable whereas the feet supporting means are attached to a wire and pulleys on the bar, whereas the wire is fixed to one of the crank wheels pulling the foot supporting means along the bars when the crank wheels are rotating.

16.

An exercise apparatus according to claims 1-3 and 14, where the bar links have belts which have attached feet supporting means, the belts are fixed to the lower bars pulling the belts and foot supporting means back and forth over the top bars when the crank wheels are rotating.

17. An exercise apparatus according to claims 1-3, where the drive means between the two cranks transferring the rotational motion of the first and second crank wheel is either;

A wire

A belt

A chain An axle or shaft with gears

18.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, wherein there are means on the frame for adjusting the distance between the crank wheels the means being of a hydraulic kind or by motoring and gearing means.

19.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, where a flywheel is connected to at least one of the crank wheels through a belt or a chain and which has means for resistance preferably of an eddy current brake system.

20.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1, where a pair of handle bars tillable fixed to the apparatus frame are hinged to a second pair of bars which is linked to one of the crank wheels or a rotating part of the crank wheels in such a manner that the handlebars tilt forward and backwards relative to the user, transverse of the movement of the feet.

21.

An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 and 18, where the handlebars are connected to arms which is connected with discs located off centred on a central axis of one of the crank assemblies, the rotation of the discs making arms pivot and forcing a tilt movement of the handlebars.

22. An exercise apparatus according to any of claims 1-21, where sensors connected to a computer on the apparatus, are provided to; monitor the angle adjustment of at least one of the crank wheels; feel the speed of the crank wheels or any rotating part of the apparatus.

23.

An exercise apparatus according to any of claims 1-22, wherein has an interface console for user input and monitoring comprising; - a computer with accompanying computer programs, - buttons/keypad/keyboard, - display means/screen and or touch screen, the control means providing means for adjustment of the path and motion of the feet supports of the apparatus at any time during usage.