Abstract: An instrumented therapy cord including a load cell transducer, a resistive stretch cord and a microprocessor control module having internal memory capacity and programming means for assessing, monitoring and controlling rehabilitation treatment programs. Operably attached to a handle member and preferably incorporated within a housing unit, the microprocessor control module interfaces with the load cell transducer. A first end of the resistive therapy stretch cord is operably coupled to the load cell transducer by a permanent or quick-release coupling means. A second end of the resistive therapy cord is removably connected to a second handle or stationary body.

Abstract: A damping control device includes a flywheel unit mounted on an exercising machine and linked to a main wheel thereof being turned by the player, a solenoid damping unit having a shoe holder mounted on a magnetic reciprocating rod and controlled by a solenoid body to press a friction shoe against the peripheral friction surface of the flywheel in producing a damping friction force, and a power control unit controlled by the setting made by the player through an exercising amount setting control and the speed signal to regulate DC power supply to the solenoid damping unit in controlling the damping force.

Abstract: A control console is associated with a video input device and an exercise machine that has a movable member such as an endless belt on a powered treadmill or the pedals of an exercise cycle. Adjustment structures receiving signals from a videotape are associated to regulate the speed of the belt of the treadmill and the resistance to the movement of the pedals of the exercise cycle, respectively. The control console receives variable input in selected time segments from the audio track of the videotape to regulate and control the adjustment structure such as the motor controller of the treadmill or a resistance strap associated with the inertia wheel of the exercise cycle. Input is received from the audio channel of the video tape to select, modify or create exercise programs in the control console for operation of the related exercise machine. Video scenes from the video tape are displayed on a television.

Abstract: An automatic magnetic controller is linked with a computer to process a formula for the relationship between the wattage and the expended calories. Then the desired numbered of calories will be accurately exhausted based on a relative arrangement between a magnetic member and a flywheel by means of a motor controller and a position controller. By this arrangement, the tension can be accurately calculated based on the rotations per minute of the flywheel. The tension is continuously arranged and adjusted to make the wattage remain at a constant value. Additionally, the number of calories remaining to be exhausted is displayed on the computer. In this manner, the exhausted calories can be accurately controlled. The magnetic controller controls the tension on the flywheel such that at high flywheel speeds, the tension is smaller, and on the contrary, the lower the flywheel speed, the higher the tension.

Abstract: Computer exercise system including at least two exercise devices coupled to a computer through a serial mouse port. These devices provide on/off signals to the computer indicating when the devices have been fully compressed or extended. The computer runs a program that responds to these inputs by requesting activation of the devices for a predetermined number of repetitions and a predetermined number of sets, with a preselected amount of delay between repetitions and sets. Alternatively, a game program is provided that requires patient input from one exercise device in order to perform a first function and requires patient input from the other exercise device to perform a second function. At the start of the game program, it is selected which exercise device is to provide the more frequently needed function.

Abstract: The invention interfaces a user-powered exercise machine to a personal computer, creating a dual-mode exercise and training system with new methods of pacing ones activity in order to achieve a goal. The user determines when the exercise period will end, and sets a goal. The computer constantly displays THE REQUIRED SPEED, which is the speed that will enable the user to achieve his goal. The CALCULATED FINAL OUTCOME predicts the outcome of the exercise period, assuming that the user will continue at his current speed for the remainder of the exercise period. The user always knows how fast he will have to go to reach his goal, and always knows what the outcome will be if he maintains his current speed. This allows the user to vary his speed and still maintain a regulated overall level of activity. In the STANDARD MODE, the exercise period is a period of time, and the goal is a TARGET DISTANCE. In the TRAINING MODE, the exercise period ends when the end of the course is reached, and the goal is a TARGET TIME.

Abstract: An attachment for a weight stack type exercise machine to pull the weight stack down while it is being lowered, (or to pull on a weight stack lifting means so as to add to the force applied to the lifting means by the weight stack) so that the eccentric exercise force required to lower the stack is greater than the concentric exercise force required to raise it. Such asymmetric exercise forces more closely match muscle strengths, which are normally greater for eccentric exercise than for concentric exercise. The attachment has an electric motor and a control unit including a keypad, a display and a microcontroller. The motor is coupled to the weight stack by an eccentric force control cable or a toothed belt or alternatively is operatively connected so as to apply additional force to the lifting arrangement. The keypad allows the user to select the amount of force added during the eccentric phase of exercise, when the weight stack is moving down.

Abstract: A force development system for controlling and generating variable shear forces in an exercise machine is disclosed for strengthening and developing body muscles during weight training or physical rehabilitation therapy. In the force development system, first and second members are movable with respect to one another and define an interspacial chamber therebetween. The interspacial chamber is filled with an electro-rheological magnetic fluid for selectively changing the shear stress characteristics in response to an applied magnetic field and for requiring a corresponding amount of force to move one of the first and second members with respect to the other of the first and second members. A magnetic field inducing mechanism is provided for selectively exposing the electro-rheological magnetic fluid means to a magnetic field of controlled intensity to selectively change the shear stress characteristics of the electro-rheological magnetic fluid.

Abstract: A resistance exercise apparatus employs a suspended weight as the primary source of resistance. A variable torque drive system is coupled to the suspended weight to selectively alter the amount of resistance experienced by the user. In one embodiment, the suspended weight is a single mass corresponding to the maximum resistance of the system. During the forward or "positive" stroke of an exercise, the drive system assists the user in lifting the mass, the amount of assistance being determined by a user selectable resistance value. During the return or "negative" stroke of the exercise, a reduced level of assistance may be provided so that increased negative resistance is experienced.

Abstract: An electronically controlled exercise device which will allow a user engaged in weight lifting to continue to exercise past the point of muscle failure. The disclosed device utilizes and electromagnetically simulated resistance in the form of a DC motor. The user is able to set an initial desired weight (resistance), while a feedback network automatically adjusts and decreases the resistance as the user progresses through a set of exercises and gradually begins to approach muscle failure.

Abstract: A variable resistance exercise device provides a variable resisting force in response to a user applied force. The variable resistance exercise device includes at least one rotating force transmitting means for inputting a user applied force as a rotational force to be resisted, and at least one force transmission member for transmitting the user applied force. The user applied force is resisted by varying the viscosity of a viscosity variable fluid which surround plates rotated by the user applied force. Thus a braking force is applied to actively resist the user applied force. In accordance with the invention, a multi-configurable multi-programmable exercise device is provided which may be used in a variety of exercise modes to provide a resistive force to a user-applied force during a range of motion of a particular exercise. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a variable resistor resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only.

Abstract: A distributive method of physical rehabilitation and conditioning using an ergometer on which exercise protocols or workouts are performed by a subject is described. The intensity and duration of the workouts are defined as the independent variables and physiological and psychological variables are measured and treated as dependent variables. The exercise protocol is stored on a portable medium and the exercise program further defines a series of successive exercise sessions conducted over time in which the same exercise protocol is repeatedly performed by the subject; and, during the performance of which protocol, physiological and psychological variables are measured. The relative changes in one or more of the dependent variables which occur over the course of the series of sessions of the exercise training program measure progress and provide the basis for modification of the exercise protocol for the next exercise training program for that subject.

Abstract: A climbing exercise apparatus is provided having a frame on which two pedals are pivotally mounted to provide a user with a vertically reciprocating exercise movement, and a control panel for user input and output. A dynamic break, alternator or the like applies a variable level of resistance (via a suitable transmission) against the user's movement. The resistance varies over time in accordance with a control signal generated by a computer. The value of the control signal is independent of the rate at which the user steps. A display successively displays images of hills. Each hill is associated with one of the series of values, and that value is graphically represented as part of or in visual association with the hill image.

Abstract: An exercise device having a coupling member movable by the user between rest and end limit of travel positions, a constant weight, and a weight-lifting arm operatively connected to the weight and movable through a vertical plane to move the weight between rest and elevated positions corresponding to the rest and end limit positions of the coupling member. The device further includes a pivot arm pivotally movable through a pivot arm plane having a user-selectable angular orientation to transmit a selectable force between the coupling member and weight dependent upon the selected angular orientation. A link arm is connected between the pivot arm and the weight-lifting arm to transmit force therebetween. The pivot arm is pivotally attached to a rotatable pivot arm support which is selectively rotated by a lever arm moved by an electric motor and screw arrangement to selectively change the angular orientation of the pivot arm plane.

Abstract: An improved treadmill comprises a motor driven endless belt, sensors located below an upper run of the belt for sensing the position of a user, and a controller for controlling the speed of the belt in accordance with the position of the user relative to the sensors. The detection or lack of detection of the user by the sensors can cause the belt to accelerate, decelerate, remain at a constant speed, or stop. A proper sequence of user detections by the sensors permits the controller to initiate an automatic speed adjusting system. The controller also provides a safety system for stopping the belt. In one embodiment, the controller stops the belt upon a lack of the sensors detecting the user. In another embodiment, a safety sensor is mounted on an upper surface of a member located proximate the belt, and the controller stops the belt when the safety sensor senses the user.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a user force application device which will optimally be used with a computerized exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus, preferably, an apparatus which permits concentric and eccentric isokinetic exercise by a user. One embodiment of the user force application device comprises a main support structure; securing assembly for securing the main support structure in an exercise position desired by a user; a shaft having a cable end and a handle end, the shaft being received by the main support structure and moveable therein, the cable end and the handle end extending from the main support structure; controlling assembly for controlling movement of the shaft within the main support structure; a handle detachably connected to shaft handle end; and detachably connecting assembly for detachably connecting the shaft cable end to the tension transmitting device of an exercise apparatus.

Abstract: Provided is a training equipment, comprising a fixed part, a movable part that is movable by a user relative to the fixed part in a first direction corresponding to a correct training pattern and a second direction corresponding to a deviation from the correct training pattern, and an indicator which notifies the user any deviation from the correct training pattern by using a visual, acoustic, or tactile signal. Optionally, the load or the resistance to the movement of the moveable part in the first direction may be increased with the increase in the deviation from the correct training pattern. Thereby, the user can develop highly efficient muscle power with the correct form and distribution of power because he is notified of any deviation from a correct form or a correct distribution of power substantially simultaneously in such a manner as may be considered as a feedback process.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a weight stack with a plurality of separate weights and a lift bar for vertical movement with the stack. A pin assembly removably secures a desired portion of the weight stack to the lift bar for vertical movement therewith so that the total weight carried by the lift bar is determined by the portion of the weight stack removably secured to the lift bar by the pin assembly. The pin assembly includes at least one pin operated by a two-position or double action actuator, each pin being movable by its actuator over a predetermined stroke. Each actuator includes a first device for positively moving the pin to an extended position to removably secure a portion of the weight stack to the lift bar and a second device for positively moving the pin to a retracted position in which the corresponding of the weight stack is free of the lift bar.

Abstract: An exercise management system is disclosed for maintaining a user's level of exercise intensity (such as measured by heart rate) at a target level while exercising. In one embodiment, the system includes a movement member (such as pedals) which is engaged by the user to provide an exercise movement. The movement member is selectively adjustable to varying the intensity of exercise performed by the user. A heart rate sensor indicates the user's heart rate, and a computer adjusts the movement member in accordance with the heart rate signal to establish and maintain the user's heart rate near the target level. The user may periodically disengage the heart rate sensor for a limited time, during which time the computer maintains the user's heart rate near the target level by adjusting load in accordance with the user's rate of exercise (such as measured by rpm).

Abstract: A magnet-type resistance generator is to be used with an exercise apparatus which has a flywheel and includes a magnet unit with a curved housing which confines a groove and which has opposite inner wall surfaces that are respectively provided with a plurality of permanent magnets which extend into the groove. A tubular sleeve extends from a rear side of the curved housing and has a distal end which is formed with an internally threaded portion. The tubular sleeve is received slidably in a tubular slide seat. A guide bolt extends axially into the slide seat and has a threaded portion that engages the internally threaded portion of the tubular sleeve. A slide potentiometer has a slider connected to the curved housing of the magnet unit.

Abstract: An interactive video and exercise apparatus, to be used to perform physical conditioning exercises interactively with an action scenario displayed on a video monitor, the apparatus including a support frame having a number of exercise devices adjustably attached thereto so as to allow a complete range of exercise movements simulating various physical activities corresponding with the action scenario on the video monitor. A compact disc-interactive player, video monitor, and audio output are positioned on the support frame and are interconnected to one another and each of the exercise devices such that the resistance of movement of the exercise devices is varied in accordance with a corresponding scenario segment of a scenario program being played on the CD-I player, as data is continuously exchanged between the exercise devices and the compact disc-interactive player, enabling the scenario program to interactively proceed in accordance with the user's actions.

Abstract: A weight load generating apparatus for variably outputting a weight load exerted on a load. A load is connected to, for example, an electromagnetic clutch which is driven by a drive source such as a motor to develop a weight load on the load. A physical quantity detector, for example, a torque sensor is connected to the load, and outputs a torque signal indicative of a torque exerted on the load and an angle signal indicative of an angle through which the load is displaced. A signal producing circuit produces a weight signal, a resiliency signal, a viscosity signal, and an inertia signal on the basis of the torque signal and angle signal. A driver circuit controls the magnetic clutch in accordance with the signals produced by the signal producing circuit.

Abstract: A training machine comprising a frame on which is mounted an element freely rotating about a horizontal axis, and an inertial flywheel coupled to said rotating element. A strap is tightened about the flywheel. The rotating element is mechanically coupled to said flywheel and a microprocessor is mounted on the frame to provide a control signal for the adjustable traction device. Said control signal corresponds to an adjustable and predefined simulated difficulty to be encountered. The microprocessor is designed to store the torques theoretically needed for several predefined simulated runs and, in response to a signal corresponding to the actual torque, to generate a second signal corresponding to the variation in the torque required to attain the torque theoretically needed for the corresponding simulated run, the second signal controlling the adjustable traction device.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for performing a quantitative analysis of a patient during exercise against isometric, isokinetic, or isoinertial resistance, in order to construct a detailed musculoskeletal model of a human subject. To use the device, the subject grasps a handle which is attached to a length of cable, wound upon a cable spool. Adjustable braking means attached to the cable spool supplies isometric, isokinetic, or isoinertial resistance against unwinding of the cable in order to simulate selected lifting motions. Sensing devices detect the longitudinal and lateral angles at which the patient is pulling the cable. A torsion spring is attached to the cable spool for rewinding the cable. In the preferred version, force sensors are attached to an upper surface of the platform to detect the manner in which the subject's weight is distributed between the anterior and posterior regions of the subject's feet, as well as between the subject's right and left feet.

Abstract: An exercise machine utilizes a mechanical brake to provide the principal resistance. A dynamoelectric machine has its rotor connected to the flywheel of the exercise machine and its stator rotatably mounted to the apparatus frame and connected to the actuation input of the mechanical brake. The torque applied between the rotor and stator of the dynamoelectric machine tends to turn the stator and thus actuates the mechanical brake. A control system is arranged to control the current flow through the dynamoelectric machine and thereby control actuation of the brake. This allows a small dynamoelectric machine to effectively control a very large resistance. The dynamoelectric machine may also be used as a motor to drive the apparatus. Thus, the control system can actuate the dynamoelectric machine either to apply drag or to drive the apparatus thereby provided through constant speed operation.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the instantaneous power generated by a leg extension, which includes a seat provided above a drive system unit on which a subject is seated. A slide rail extends forwardly from the drive system unit, and a foot plate slides along the slide rail in forward and backward directions. A rope connected to the foot plate is provided in the drive system unit in order to be paid out in response to the forward sliding movement of the foot plate. This apparatus also includes a transmission device, which rotates in response to the rope paying-out and a powder brake, which is rotated by the transmission device. A foot load sensor is also mounted on the foot plate in order to detect the foot load developed when the subject extends his/her legs, and a rotation frequency sensor is provided at a predetermined position within the drive system unit in order to detect the rotation frequency of the powder brake.

Abstract: The speed of operating structure of an exercise machine is sensed by a sheave and belt drive and rotates a worm gear interconnected to a reduction gear assembly to rotate a driver at a preselected rate. The driver is interconnected to drive a cam surface upon which a cam follower rides to in turn operate a pivoted lever. The lever is interconnected to transmit the movement of the cam follower to operate the resistance means of the exercise machine to increase or decrease the resistance being applied to the operating structure of the exercise machine.

Abstract: An improved eddy current braking system for fly wheel braked exercise equipment includes the use of a flat aluminum disc and electromagnets to either side of the disc adjacent to the periphery thereof, with the electromagnets containing multiple pole pieces to multiply the torque so as to reduce heating and power consumption. The utilization of aluminum achieves a flat torque versus speed characteristic vis-a-vis copper discs over the normal operating speed range. Additionally, the utilization of aluminum prevents the warpage associated with copper.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a user force application device which will optimally be used with a computerized exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus, preferably, an apparatus which permits concentric and eccentric isokinetic exercise by a user. One embodiment of the user force application device comprises a hollow outer cylinder, an inner cylinder inserted into the hollow outer cylinder and in co-axial alignment therewith, the inner cylinder being freely rotatable around its axis and freely slidable within the hollow outer cylinder along its axis. Grips of different size and shape can be provided which can easily be attached to the inner cylinder. The movement of the inner cylinder inside the hollow outer cylinder can be restricted. By attaching a larger cylinder to the inner cylinder and in co-axial alignment with it, rotational resistance can be provided. The user force application device can be secured to the exercise, physical therapy, or rehabilitation apparatus.

Abstract: An exerciser in accordance with the present invention includes a load apparatus for applying load to pedaling of a user, pulse data detecting apparatus for detecting pulse data of the user, a card for storing optically readable individual data such as age and physical strength of the user, optical reading means for optically reading the individual data stored in the data card, and control means for controlling the magnitude of load applied by the load apparatus based on the read individual data and the detected pulse data.

Abstract: A controlling device for a road condition display for an exercise bicycle comprises a picture device for providing a different motion picture of road conditions, a sensing device for sensing different road conditions and generating a train of corresponding pulses, an first counter for counting the number of these pulses, a frictional load device for generating various frictional resistances for the exercise bicycle, a pulse generator for generating at least one pulse when the frictional load device changes the frictional resistance, a second counter for counting the number of pulses from the pulse generator and records and updates the frictional load of the frictional load device, and a comparator for comparing the counted value of the first counter and the second counter and outputting a signal to trigger the frictional load device to update the load resistance according to the present motion picture.

Abstract: An apparatus for the rehabilitation of the musculoskeletal performance of a human body, comprising a handle and a set of three cylinders capable of longitudinal extension and retraction, the cylinders extending at angle with respect to each other and each having one end rotatably connected to the handle and another end rotatably connected to a rigid surface, the ends of the three cylinders opposite the handle being spaced apart from each other. By adjustably and independently controlling the longitudinal extension and retraction of each of the cylinders, it becomes possible to simulate objects being lifted or moved on the job at various heights and in any particular angle and plane and thus use the apparatus for rehabilitation purpose.

Abstract: A work control apparatus in a bicycle exerciser having a driven member made of inductive material and rotatively mounted on an exerciser frame. The work control apparatus includes a fixing shaft pivotally connected to the exerciser frame and fixedly carrying a pulley member and a box-shaped support portion, a U-shaped permanent magnet secured to the support portion and a rotatively mounted knob connected to the pulley member by an endless belt for selectively locating the permanent magnet in one of a plurality of angular positions. Part of the driven member is interposed between two spaced legs of the permanent magnet to generate an eddy current in the driven member for exerting a rotation resistance on the driven member.

Abstract: An isoinertial lift machine is described which can be used to evaluate and train patients in the static and dynamic lift modes. The machine consists of an arm which can be positioned on a vertical column. At the end of the arm, various size attachments and handles can be attached. The arm also carries a force sensor that measures the forces applied to the handles. In the static mode, the arm is positioned at a desired height and locked in place. The patient lifts on the handle, and the force sensor registers the lifting force. Since the handle does not move during the lift, the mode is called static. In the dynamic mode, the arm/handle moves in the vertical direction during the lift. A resistance mechanism is used to resist the lifting force applied by the user at the handle. The resisting force is always pulling the arm down, both in the lifting and the lowering motion. The resisting force remains constant throughout the range of motion during lifting.

Abstract: A magnetic retarding device for an exerciser including a pair of links each having a lower end to the frame of the exercise, a bracket pivotally coupled pivotally coupled between the upper ends of the links which are arranged such that the bracket moves radially inward and outward of the wheel of the exerciser, a support fixed to the bracket and including one or more magnets disposed in two end walls, the magnets are caused to move radially inward and outward of the wheel when the bracket moves.

Abstract: A control for a DC motor coupled to a user interface to provide a counterforce which simulates a weight stack in an exercise machine. The control includes a position transducer coupled to the motor to provide a signal proportional to the displacement of the user interface. In one embodiment a circuit is provided to generate a control signal which follows the displacement signal when it is less than a maximum torque signal, the control voltage following maximum torque signal when it is less than the displacement signal. In a second embodiment a microprocessor control unit is responsive to the displacement signal to provide a control signal for the motor which starts increasing from a first value when the user interface is displaced an initial amount and which continues gradually increasing to a maximum value as the user interface is moved through a given displacement from the initial displacement.

Abstract: Upright sidewall and end panels are bolted to a unitary base component having a treadmill so as to form a composite exercise tank. One end panel has a door of transparent sheet material with specialized hinges and locking mechanism to assure a leakproof fit. Water can be introduced into the tank to a desired level from a storage container, whereupon the treadmill is actuated for exercise or therapy. During use, water in the tank is recirculated through heating, cleaning and sanitizing equipment. After use, the water in the tank is emptied to the storage container and the user exits through the door.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus (10) for stretching a users paraspinal and leg muscles including a leg immobilizing unit (11) having an adjustable extension unit (12) to which is pivotally attached a reciprocating telescoping unit (15) which is controlled by a control unit (14) for causing the reciprocating unit (13) to expand and contract to stretch the users paraspinal and leg muscles.

Abstract: An exercising device combining an inclinable treadmill with an upper body exercising assembly having two or more sets of levers with handles. The resistance loading of each set of levers may be independently controlled and varied. This device combines strength training which aerobic exercise. Computerized controls and monitors are used. The device may be used in a weightless environment.

Abstract: A control system includes an adjustment knob to regulate the resistance of the exercise machine such as a treadmill, rowing machine, or stationary exercise cycle. Various indicia are positioned proximate the knob so the user may specifically select an exercise program and real time feedback of exercise performance through the use an ear clip supplying pulse information or other biological data which is converted and displayed for observation by the user.