Abstract: A wheel-type resistance device for providing a resisting force to a bicycle exerciser, includes two swing arms pivotally mounted on an exerciser frame and outboard to two side walls of a flywheel so as to swingable to be remote from or close to the side walls respectively in first and second positions. A right magnet member and a left magnetically attractive member are mounted respectively on the swing arms such that movement to the second position will cause an increased dragging force on the flywheel. A force adjusting cable is connected to the swing arms and is operable to pull the swing arms, as well as the right magnet member and the left magnetically attractive member, to the second position.

Abstract: A bike exerciser includes a resistance device connected to the frame of the exerciser and the resistance device has a base board fixedly connected to the frame and a movable board movably restrained on the base board. A plurality of magnets are connected to movable board. A lever is connected to the frame and a connection member is connected between the movable board and the lever. The connection member movably extends through a tube and a first end member is connected to an end of the tube, and a second end member is connected to the movable board. A spring is mounted to the connection member and biased between the first end member and the second end member. The movable board is moved to let the magnets move toward the wheel of the exerciser by pivoting the lever.

Abstract: An exercise machine in which a fan has a rotor that generates drag by causing air to move in response to exercising by a user. A deflection structure deflects air that the rotor has moved and is adjustable to control the amount of drag generated by the rotor.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle including a frame having a seat and handlebars, a high-inertia flywheel having a hub at a center of rotation, the flywheel being rotatably supported on the frame at the hub, and a drive train including a drive sprocket, a crank arm attached to and extending from the drive sprocket, and a pedal attached to the crank arm, the drive train being rotatably supported by the frame. The drive train also includes a slave sprocket fixed to the flywheel at the hub, with the drive and slave sprockets connected in a direct-drive relationship, the drive train driveable in a forward and rearward directions to cause the flywheel to rotate. A clutch mechanism is positioned in engagement with the slave sprocket and the hub to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold.

Abstract: A bicycle trainer includes a resistance unit engageable with the driven wheel of the bicycle, and a control console mounted to the bicycle in a user accessible location. The resistance unit is in the form of an AC alternator which generates power in response to rotation of the bicycle wheel, to power the various components of the bicycle trainer, including the control console and a resistance adjustment arrangement. In one form, the resistance is adjusted in accordance with inputs provided either from an operator or from a computer interconnected with the control console, by selectively connecting a resistor in a circuit including the AC alternator so as to provide resistance to rotation of the rotor of the AC alternator, and thereby resistance to rotation of the bicycle wheel.

Abstract: Therapy and exercise unit (10) for restricted-guidance knee joint motion, having two lower leg receivers (35, 36), which are disposed on a guiding arrangement (11) and connected by articulated devices (23, 24) to a transmission element (28) of the guiding arrangement, which transmission element connects the lower leg receivers to one another in a motionally coupled manner such that a swivelling motion of the one lower leg as a result of bending of the knee initiates an oppositely directed swivelling motion of the other lower leg, wherein, for connection of the lower leg receivers (35, 36) to the articulated devices (23, 24), a lever (34) is provided which produces a restoring moment (Gxh), which in terms of the direction of rotation counteracts a leg extension, about a pivot (45) of the respective articulated device (23, 24).

Abstract: A stationary exercise bicycle apparatus is provided, the apparatus including shock absorption capabilities in order to more completely simulate the movement and feel of an actual free standing bicycle. Shock absorption capabilities are provided by a rearwardly extending member having a first end which is pivotally secured to the base portion of the apparatus and a second end which includes a surface contacting roller. Further, a resilient elastomeric component is provided which is disposed between brackets mounted on the rearwardly extending member and the base portion, respectively, this component being slightly compressed in response to the operator's weight and movements initiated by the operator. Such compression serves as a dampening or absorption of shock waves. Also, it will be recognized that the configuration described allows for some limited up and down movement of the apparatus.

Abstract: A pedal powered exerciser including a pair of independent reciprocating push pedal drives. A pedal at each drive operates a chain trained between an idler axle and an independent live half axle. Inertial movement is sustained with a flywheel and overrunning clutch assembly at each live axle. Kinetic resistance at each live half axle can be selectively varied with a magnetic tension control assembly. A tubular framework supports the pedal slides, chains, flywheels, and magnetic tensioners. A pneumatic piston is hinged to self-adjust the angular orientation between main and base frames. A telescoping clamp assembly includes upper and lower jaws that are adapted to mount to a recliner footrest. The clamp assembly is longitudinally adjustable and detachable from a receiver to permit transport.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a work-indicating unit of a magnetic control exercise apparatus. A plurality of circuit board sets corresponding to magnetic resistance elements are positioned around a flywheel. Each circuit board has several sensing elements and light-emitting elements (e.g. monochromatic or polychrome LED). Each sensing element corresponds to a magnet set of the magnetic resistance elements in order to detect the resistance voltage value produced by the flywheel in unit time in cooperation with the magnetic resistance elements. Thereafter, the resistance voltage is used to actuate the light-emitting elements. Accordingly, the work of exercise in unit time is learned by means that the light-emitting elements light up or go out.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a training apparatus which make a convenient assembly be carried out from one direction and respective parts be placed on both supporting plates as a unit, wherein a pair of supporting plates 13,14 fixed to the main body frame 2 are provided, only one 13 of the supporting plates is formed so as to pass through the space defined by said main body frame 2 and saddle post 5, and the crank shaft 17 and the shaft of the loading device are supported by at least one of said pair of supporting plates 13,14.

Abstract: The present invention is a spin bike pedal load changing means, and foot rest means for use in stationary training, that collectively greatly improves the capabilities of spin bikes over what is currently available in the art. The pedal load changing means allows the calibration of a range of pedal working loads, tailored to the individual rider's capabilities and at the same time can be used as an emergency brake. The foot rest allows for the safe parking of the rider's free leg during one-legged cycling training. The foot rest feature and pedal load change features both effectively increase the performance and safety of the spin bike in use, which is a much-desired feature for health clubs and gyms. The spin bike further allows the instructor to carry out a group class exercise routine, where each rider can set the pedal load changing means on each spin bike to fit their individual strength and stamina capabilities and also allows the rapid changing of pedal load settings to predetermined levels.

Abstract: A resistance applying device for use with an exercise apparatus includes a rotatable shaft, a rotatable impeller coupled to the rotatable shaft, a sealed housing surround the rotatable impeller, the sealed housing containing a fluid that provides resistance against the rotation of the impeller, and a barrier located between the rotatable impeller and the housing, the barrier and the rotatable impeller being configured to provide for relative movement between the barrier and the rotatable impeller.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a brake arrangement (4) for a magnetic or an electric ergometer, e.g. an ergometer bike. The object of the invention is to provide an ergometer which is as user friendly as magnetic and electric ergometers, while the calibration of the ergometer is simplified considerably. The ergometer comprises a frame, a power transmission system (2) and a rotating member (3) which is driven by the power transmission system and is at least partially made of or coated with a conductive material or magnetic material a brake arrangement (4) is provided to adjust the rotation resistance of the rotating member, the arrangement consisting, according to the invention, of at least one magnetic brake member (8) which is at an adjustable distance from the rotating member. The brake member (8) has a fixed mass and is movable in a direction substantially parallel with, the cross-sectional plane of the rotating member (3) and parallel with the radius of the rotating member.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle including a frame, an adjustable seat structure, and an adjustable handlebar structure. One example of the frame includes a front fork, a down tube connected with the front fork, a seat tube, and a bottom frame member. The down tube has a first section that extends downwardly and rearwardly from a top portion of the front fork and has a section horizontal section connected with the seat tube. The front fork, down tube, seat tube, and bottom frame member define a five sided structure. The frame also includes a rear support brace connected with the seat tube and the bottom frame member in a triangular configuration. The seat structure has a seat post that is adjustably supported in the seat tube. The seat structure also has a horizontal seat rail and a cooperating seat collar that slides back and forth on the seat rail to allow fore and aft adjustment of a seat connected with the seat collar.

Abstract: An adjustable magnetic damping device formed of a left cover shell, a plurality of adjustment members, a plurality of magnets, a cam wheel, and a right cover shell, and installed in the flywheel of a stationary bicycle adjacent to a metal lining of the flywheel to impart a damping resistance to the flywheel. The cam wheel is connected to a pull cable of which the tension can be adjusted for enabling the angular position of the cam wheel to be changed, so as to further adjust the radial position of the magnets in changing the strength of the magnetic resistance.

Abstract: A stationary bike includes a first shaft, a second shaft and third shaft, two pedal rods fixed on the first shaft, a first transmitting wheel and a flywheel fixed on the first shaft, a second, a third, a fourth and a fifth transmitting wheel fixed on the second shaft. The second and the third one are fixed thereon with a one-way bearing, and the fourth and the fifth transmitting wheel are fixed firmly thereon, with the fifth one connected with the flywheel with a moving member. A sixth and a seventh transmitting wheel are fixed on the third shaft, with the sixth one connected with the third one with a moving member and with a one-way bearing. The seventh and the fourth transmitting wheel engage with each other to rotate in the opposite direction. Then the flywheel always rotates clockwise in spite of clockwise or counterclockwise rotation of the pedal rods. And a resisting device with a generator may be affixed beside the flywheel to generate power to supply to the stationary bike.

Abstract: A recumbent apparatus for exercise and physical therapy providing a lower body workout, an upper body workout and cardiovascular conditioning, the apparatus comprising a frame having a forward end and a rearward end, the frame generally defining a longitudinal axis extending between the forward and rearward ends, a seat supported by the frame, a left leg assembly and a right leg assembly, the leg assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement about a pivot axis transverse to the longitudinal axis, the leg assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending leg lever terminating in a pedal, a left arm assembly and a right arm assembly, the arm assemblies supported by the frame for pivoting movement also about the pivot axis, the arm assemblies positioned generally toward the forward end and each including an upwardly extending arm lever terminating in a handle, the left leg assembly being connected to the right arm assembly enabling movement therewith and de

Abstract: A wheel for a stationary bicycle includes a first disk and a second disk with an axle extending through the two disks. A plurality of rods and rollers are connected between the two disks so as to obtain a gap between the two disks. Two plates are respectively pivotally connected between the two disks at one end thereof and the other end of each plate is connected by a wire which extends through one of the disks. The axle is located between the two plates. Each plate has a plurality of magnets connected thereon so that when pulling the wire, the magnets together with the plates are moved relative to a periphery of the disks and this changes a distance between the magnets and a magnetic field damping device of the stationary bicycle.

Abstract: A mechanism is designed to effect a resistance and is formed of a support frame on which a braking wheel, an excited magnetic disk and an excited magnetic coil are mounted by a fastening shaft. The excited magnetic disk has an induction surface and a shaft seat over which the excited magnetic coil is fitted. The induction surface of the excited magnetic disk is provided along the fringe thereof with a plurality of magnetic poles serving as eddy current induction areas at the time when the excited magnetic disk and the braking wheel interact. The eddy current and the magnetic flux interact to effect a reverse rotation moment opposite in direction to the rotation of the braking wheel.

Abstract: An exerciser adapted for use with a pedaled device includes a frame having a post support ends for supporting the pedaled device and a frame mounting flange. A resistance device is selectively securable to the frame mounting flange in a first position relative to the opposed support ends. An adapter is selectively securable to the frame mounting flange and has an adapter mounting flange such that when the adapter is secured to the secured mounting flange, the resistance device is securable to the adapter mounting flange.

Abstract: A resistance adjusting device for an exercise device includes a magnetic member connected to a surface of a wheel which is driven by a belt and has a shaft extending through a hub thereof. A disk is movably mounted to the shaft and a recess is defined in a first surface of the disk so as to receive a metal board therein which faces the magnetic member. A panel is mounted to the shaft and a cable extends through the panel and is fixedly connected to the disk. A spring is biased between the disk and the panel. The distance between the disk and the wheel is adjusted by pulling the cable. A resistance force between the magnetic member and the metal board is therefore adjusted.

Abstract: An underwater exercise apparatus consisting of a pair of fastening vices amenable to being held together by screws and bolts and serving to removably hold an elongated support arm to which a seat for sitting is attached and further serving to hold together a pair of oppositely positioned three-sided support units each of which rests upon a pair of adjustable foot pods and atop each elongated middle side of each of which support units there is affixed a housing unit containing a wheel and pedal mechanism in turn connected to a pair of pedals; each connected to one end of an elastic cord with each cord being affixed at a second end of each to a support block, one support block being affixed atop a posterior side of one support unit and one support block being affixed atop a posterior side of the other support unit and with there being affixed atop an anterior side of each support unit, an adjustable upright handlebar.

Abstract: A device for effecting resistance is incorporated into an exercise or rehabilitation machine and is formed of an excited magnetic cylinder, an excited magnetic coil, a rotary cylinder, and two support frames. As the excited magnetic coil is connected to the alternating current power source in conjunction with a control switch, the exercise or rehabilitation machine is provided with a magnetic resistance of a predetermined magnitude. The excited magnetic cylinder is provided in one side with an annular wavy magnetic interstice for guiding the magnetic line toward the rotary cylinder, thereby resulting in a magnetic resistance causing the fixed excited magnetic cylinder and the rotary cylinder to attract each other. The rotary cylinder is connected to a link device of the exercise or rehabilitation machine, so as to provide the exercise or rehabilitation machine with a resistance.

Abstract: A pedal powered exerciser including a pair of independent reciprocating push pedal drives. A pedal at each drive operates a chain trained between an idler axle and an independent live half axle. Inertial movement is sustained with a flywheel and overrunning clutch assembly at each live axle. Kinetic resistance at each live half axle can be selectively varied with a magnetic tension control assembly. A tubular framework supports the pedal slides, chains, flywheels, and magnetic tensioners. A pneumatic piston is hinged to self-adjust the angular orientation between main and base frames. A telescoping clamp assembly includes upper and lower jaws that are adapted to mount to a recliner footrest. The clamp assembly is longitudinally adjustable and detachable from a receiver to permit transport.

Abstract: A magnetic load applying device includes a plate secured on a spindle, and a rotating disc rotatably secured on the spindle and having a peripheral fence engaged on the plate. One or more arms each supports one or more magnets and each has one end rotatably secured to the plate for moving the magnets toward and away from the peripheral fence of the rotating disc and for adjusting the brake torque of the magnets applied onto the rotating disc. One or more springs may bias the arms and the magnets toward the peripheral fence of the rotating disc.

Abstract: A magnetic damping device installed in an exercising machine and controlled to impart a magnetic damping force to a load wheel, including two magnetic members symmetrically pivoted to the exercising machine and moved one after the other with an adjustment device relative to the load wheel, and two tensile springs respectively connected between the exercising machine and the magnetic members to provide the magnetic members with different moment of force.

Abstract: An adjustable magnetic damping device formed of a left cover shell, a plurality of adjustment members, a plurality of magnets, a cam wheel, and a right cover shell, and installed in the flywheel of a stationary bicycle adjacent to a metal lining of the flywheel to impart a damping resistance to the flywheel. The cam wheel is connected to a pull cable of which the tension can be adjusted for enabling the angular position of the cam wheel to be changed, so as to further adjust the radial position of the magnets in changing the strength of the magnetic resistance.

Abstract: A magnetic device intended for use in an exercise bicycle or the like comprises a main body, a spindle mounted on the main body, two disks mounted on the spindle at an interval and provided with a plurality of magnets, and a threaded rod for adjusting the distance between the two disks so as to adjust the magnitude of resistance force by controlling the magnetic flux density between the two disks.

Abstract: The present invention utilizes a split hub assembly that provides the user two modes of operation, unipedal or bipedal. Unipedal mode is when each crank is functioning independent of the other thus forcing the user to work each leg differently yet simultaneously. Bipedal simulates the normal operation of a bicycle. In the preferred embodiment, each side of the invention (left and right side for left and right legs) has its own drive system. The split hub assembly is housed between each drive system, and by using an actuator, the drive systems can be connected to provide bipedal operation, or disconnected to provide unipedal operation. This allows each side, in unipedal mode, to vary its resistance without affecting the other side in order for a patient to exercise both legs separately and favor one with a different resistance to account for an injury or recovery from surgery.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle includes a frame having a pedal assembly mounted thereon. The pedal assembly is interlinked with an electric motor, a fan blade type wheel and a reciprocable handle bar assembly whereby the motor automatically rotates the pedal crank assembly and reciprocates the handle bars to provide a light, assisted workout to a physically challenged person.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for removably holding an axle includes an axle attachment which is removably attachable to an end of the axle. A threaded shaft is coupled to the axle attachment, and a latch is selectively engageable with the threads of the shaft. A crank is coupled to the shaft, and rotation of the crank results in advancement of the axle attachment towed the end of the axle, to clamp the axle between the axle attachment and a centering apparatus engageable with the opposite end of the axle. The latch is movable to a release position in which the latch is disengaged from the threads of the shaft. A spring bears against the crank so as to bias the axle attachment away from the end of the axle, and the spring functions to disengage the axle attachment from the end of the axle when the latch is moved to its release position. The centering apparatus is movable to varying positions so as to accommodate varying axle lengths and to provide proper centering of the axle.

Abstract: A resistance control device for a training appliance includes a resist wheel fixed on the training appliance, and a magnet base adjustable in the distance between the resist wheel and having a plurality of magnets. A right end of the magnet base is pivotally connected to a fix base fixed with the training appliance, and a left end remaining free to move up and down and having a lateral rod. Further, an eccentric block is located at one side of the lateral rod, having a center shaft hole for fixing a shaft rotated by a drive source and a long curved slot for the lateral rod to fit in and move along. The distance between every point of the slot and the center shaft hole is decided by a calculation formula F=Ca.times.S all different.

Abstract: An oval-tracked exercise device includes a base assembly, a supporting frame assembly fastened on the base assembly, a treadle crank assembly fastened on the rear end of the supporting frame assembly and a wheel assembly fastened at the bottom end of the supporting frame assembly. The bottoms of the treadles have bottom shafts which are fixed to the bottom ends of the front standing shafts. In treading, the transmission gear assembly will be driven by the bottom shaft of the treadle crank assembly to rotate the wheel assembly, so that the front standing shafts and the handles are able to make a pivoting movement on the front lateral shaft in order for the user to exercise the whole body. When the handles are inserted into connecting tubes at the front end of the front lateral shaft, the handles are unable to swing with the front standing shaft and the user is able to exercise only the buttocks without moving the upper body.

Abstract: A cycling exerciser includes a base having a seat post extended upward from the middle portion of the base. A pair of cranks are rotatably secured to the base at an axle for supporting a pair of foot pedals and for allowing the user to conduct cycling exercises. A handle is rotatably secured to the base and is coupled to the axle by unidirectional bearings and by a sprocket-and-chain device for allowing the handle to unidirectionally drive the axle and to rotate the cranks when the handle is rotated by the user. A spring member may be used for recovering the handle.

Abstract: A flush-mounted device for an exercise device includes a generator having a rotator contacting the flywheel which is connected to the pulley by a belt so that when rotating the crank, the generator is operated. A plurality of bulbs are connected in the casing mounted over the pulley and the flywheel, and the bulbs are electrically connected to the generator so that the bulbs turn on when the generator is operated. The casing has a transparent portion through which the flywheel can be seen which has reflectors attached thereto.

Abstract: An adjustable torsion damper has a mount which is divided in the longitudinal direction thereof into two submounts made of a material conductive to magnetism. Located between the two submounts is a portion nonconductive to magnetism. The mount is provided at an upper end thereof and a lower end thereof with a first round hole and a second round hole. The first round hole runs between the submounts. A magnetic block is rotatably disposed in the first round hole. A rotary shaft is rotatably disposed in the second round hole. The rotary shaft is made of a material conductive to magnetism. The value of torsional moment of the rotary shaft changes along with the magnetic block in motion.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a two stage resistance system which causes resistance to a moving surface to be exerted in two separate phases. More particularly, the two stage resistance system may be adapted to exercise equipment for the purpose of providing a wide range of resistance forces that must be overcome by the user. This provides the user with a more useful and adaptable means of configuring an exercise routine.

Abstract: A magnetic resistance control apparatus for an exercise bicycle including a bicycle frame having a fork structure extending therefrom, a wheel having a magnetic surface thereon rotatably mounted on an axle within the fork structure, a pedal assembly rotatably connected to the bicycle frame and linked to the wheel such that a rotation of the pedal assembly causes a rotation of the wheel, a suspension arm connected to the fork structure and extending outwardly therefrom so as to have an end positioned beyond an outer diameter of the wheel, a suspension bar connected to the bicycle frame and extending therefrom so as to be positioned above an outer diameter of the wheel, an arc-shaped seat having magnets received on an interior surface thereof, extending around a portion of the wheel such that the magnets face the magnetic surface of the wheel, and a non-magnetic layer extending directly over the magnets of the seat so as to be interposed between the magnets and the wheel.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a brake device with a combination of power-generating and eddy-current magnetic resistance having an outer ]-shaped fly wheel fastened on a central axle of a frame and fitted with a permanent magnet on the inner circular edge to form a rotor type, and the fly wheel is connected with a stator core fastened on the frame; moreover, one end of the central axle is stretching out of the frame and fitted with a belt wheel; the front end of the frame is fitted with a brake core adjacent to the outer edge of the fly wheel to supply a planned eddy current magnetic resistance to the fly wheel; in accordance with such design, the device generates power by means of the exercise force of users to drive the fly wheel to rotate, after passing through a DC power supply, it provides display & controlling gage with power source so that the power-generating and the eddy current magnetic resistance are integrated to reach the effect of reducing the volume and the producing cost.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle is composed of a bicycle frame, a vibration device, a driving device, and a clutch device. The bicycle frame is provided with a pedal device. The vibration device and the pedal device are driven by the driving device such that the pedal device can be temporarily disabled by the clutch device. The vibration device is capable of actuating the bicycle frame to vibrate so as to massage the body of a user of the exercise bicycle while the user is engaged in the pedalling exercise. The exercise bicycle can be used as a body massaging machine by actuating the clutch device to disable the pedal device.

Abstract: A magnetic resistive device that is suitable for use with a bicycle trainer including a rotatable shaft having a magnetic resistive force member engaged to an end thereof. In the preferred embodiment the magnetic resistive force member includes a cylindrical outer surface. A plurality of magnets are disposed on one side of said magnetic resistive force member, preferably in alternating polarity. Magnetic fields generated between adjacent magnets create eddy currents within the magnetic resistive force member to create a resistive force against the rotation of the magnetic resistive force member. In the preferred embodiment, the magnets are disposed outside of the cylindrical magnetic resistive force member, and the magnets are movable away from the magnetic resistive force member to reduce the force induced therewithin.

Abstract: An exercise bicycle including a frame having a seat and handlebars, a high-inertia flywheel having a hub at a center of rotation, the flywheel being rotatably supported on the frame at the hub, and a drive train including a drive sprocket, a crank arm attached to and extending from the drive sprocket, and a pedal attached to the crank arm, the drive train being rotatably supported by the frame. The drive train also includes a slave sprocket fixed to the flywheel at the hub, with the drive and slave sprockets connected in a direct-drive relationship, the drive train driveable in a forward and rearward directions to cause the flywheel to rotate. A clutch mechanism is positioned in engagement with the slave sprocket and the hub to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus has (a) a bi-modal seat that readily transforms between a first configuration, which is adapted for conventional cycling, and a second configuration, which is adapted for recumbent cycling; (b) a bi-modal flywheel assembly that readily switches between a direct drive configuration and a free-wheel configuration; and/or (c) a braking assembly which readily stops rotation of the flywheel at the discretion of a user.

Abstract: A motor control system for use in an electrical-motorized bicycle is disclosed. The motor control system includes a plurality of magnets arranged in a ring which is rotatable about the crank axle of the bicycle by the rotation of the chainwheel. A cover member is rotatably fit over the ring of the magnets and is fixed to the bicycle frame. At least two sensors are arranged on the cover member to detect the rotational speed and direction of the magnets and thus generating a signal to indicate the change of the rotational speed and direction of the chainwheel for controlling the operation of an electrical motor that is mechanically coupled to and drives the bicycle wheel so that only when the chainwheel is rotated in the direction to drive the bicycle forward, the motor is actuated to drive the bicycle wheel. Once the chainwheel stops, the motor is turned off and no torque is applied to the bicycle wheel.

Abstract: A wheel-type resistance device includes a flywheel which is rotated together with a hub member around an axle and which has an accommodation chamber indented axially to form a first circumferential portion that extends in a radial direction relative to the axle. A plurality of magnetically attractive members have magnetically permeable members thereon and are angularly displaced on the first circumferential portion. A dragging force adjusting member is mounted on the axle and is shiftable in the axial direction. The adjusting member has a left major surface with a second circumferential portion opposing the first circumferential portion for mounting a plurality of magnets so that the magnets will be drawn by the magnetically attractive members through the permeable members when the flywheel rotates. A shifting member is operable to shift the adjusting member away from the flywheel so as to decrease the dragging force imposed upon the rotation of the flywheel.

Abstract: A wheel-type resistance device includes a flywheel rotated with a hub member around an axle and having an accommodation chamber with a first circumferential portion extending in a radial direction and provided with a plurality of magnetically attractive members. A dragging force adjusting member is mounted on the axle and has a second circumferential portion registered with the first circumferential portion. Upper and lower magnetic members are disposed movably on the second circumferential portion and are spaced apart from and are in symmetry with each other relative to a horizontal line transverse to an axial direction defined by the axle. A cam member is mounted rotatably on the axle. A pair of cam followers are disposed respectively on the upper and lower magnetic members and are moved by the cam member such that counterclockwise rotation of the cam member will impart linear movements of the upper and lower magnetic members towards the horizontal line.

Abstract: A wheel-type resistance device includes a flywheel rotated with a hub member around an axle and having an accommodation chamber with a first circumferential portion which is provided with a magnetically attractive member. A dragging force adjusting member is mounted on the axle and has a second circumferential portion registered with the first circumferential portion. Upper and lower magnetic members are disposed movably on the second circumferential portion and are spaced apart from and are in symmetry with each other relative to a horizontal line transverse to an axial direction defined by the axle. Linear movement of the upper and lower magnetic members toward the horizontal line along a transverse direction relative to the horizontal line is actuated by an actuating member so as to decrease the extent of overlapping of the upper and lower magnetic members with the second circumferential portion.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, user actuation components connected to the frame for being engaged and moved by a user during an exercise, and a rheological fluid brake operatively connected to the user actuation components for applying a controllable resistance to movement thereof. The rheological fluid brake includes a rheological fluid having a controllable viscosity, a housing connected to the frame and containing the rheological fluid, and a rotatable shaft extending outwardly from the housing and connected between the rheological fluid and the user actuation components. A flywheel is also preferably connected to the rotatable shaft to further smooth action of the brake. A controller, such as a microprocessor operating under stored program control, is preferably operatively connected to the rheological fluid brake for causing a predetermined field strength to be applied to the rheological fluid based upon a user-selected resistance value.

Abstract: A resistance device is to be used with an exerciser having an axle, a wheel mounted on the axle, and a driving unit which is manually operable to drive rotatably the wheel on the axle. The resistance device includes a support frame and a resistance unit. The support frame is adapted to be mounted on the exerciser so as to raise the wheel above a ground surface to prevent the ground surface from providing resistance to rotation of the wheel. The resistance unit includes a transmission shaft mounted rotatably on the support frame and adapted to be driven rotatably by the wheel, and weights applied on the transmission shaft so as to generate a resistance to rotation of the transmission shaft in order to resist, in turn, the rotation of the wheel.

Abstract: A magnetic damping device including a belt removably and separably positioned around the peripheral groove of the metal flywheel of an indoor exercise bicycle, and a plurality of permanent magnets respectively fastened down the belt and spaced along its length and adapted to impart a magnetic damping resistance to the rotary motion of the metal flywheel.