Utilizing Fluid Resistance Patents (Class 482/73)
  • Patent number: 11957947
    Abstract: A volute rotary resetting mechanism is provided, including a rotating wheel (100) and a main shaft (200); the main shaft (200) is arranged on the rotating wheel (100) in a penetrating manner; a turntable part (110) and a resilience part (120) are axially distributed on the rotating wheel (100); the turntable part (110) is connected to the main shaft (200) through a one-way bearing (111), so that the rotating wheel (100) drives the main shaft (200) to rotate in one way; a volute spring (121) is arranged on the resilience part (120); an inner end of the volute spring (121) is fixed on the resilience part (120), and an outer end is fixed on a volute reel (122); and the rotating wheel (100) and the volute reel (122) are relatively rotatable, so that the volute spring (121) is tightened to generate a resilience force for rotary resetting of the rotating wheel (100). A rowing machine with the volute rotary resetting mechanism is further provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Inventor: Qiulin Wang
  • Patent number: 11806574
    Abstract: A translatable carriage exercise machine comprising first and second spaced elongate side rails. A moveable carriage translatable along the side rails. An upper support surface on the carriage sized to support the entire posterior trunk of an adult human in supine. A plurality of elastic tension members secured to a bottom of the moveable carriage and fixable to a plurality of spring anchors. An upright footbar positioned at a machine first end. A pair of carriage pulleys fixed at a second end of the exercise apparatus with carriage ropes adjustably fixed to the moveable carriage each looped around respective carriage pulleys. A rotational resistance mechanism comprising an elongate resistance band having an extended configuration and a retracted configuration. The rotational resistance mechanism comprising a resistor comprising a load member. A user option to utilize one or more of the elastic tension members and rotational resistance mechanism during exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Inventor: Brian Patrick Janowski
  • Patent number: 11794067
    Abstract: Exercise device, having at least one elongate track onto which a seat and a footrest are slidingly movably arranged, such that the seat and the footrest are mutually independently movable along the at least one track, a resistance element connected to a handle via a drive cord through which the resistance element can be driven upon pulling the handle towards the seat, and a cord guiding member arranged between the handle and the resistance element over which the drive cord passes, wherein the cord guiding member is arranged stationary with respect to the footrest, and wherein the resistance element is arranged stationary with respect to the at least one track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2023
    Inventor: Gerrit Jan Lammers
  • Patent number: 11724152
    Abstract: A rowing machine is disclosed. The rowing machine includes a frame including a base for contact with a support surface and a seat rail supported by the base. The rowing machine includes a seat configured to reciprocate back and forth along the seat rail. The rowing machine includes a rowing engine that includes at least one resistance mechanism rotatably coupled to the frame. The rowing machine includes at least one handle operatively connected to the at least one resistance mechanism, and a paddle linkage assembly operatively connecting the at least one handle to the at least one resistance mechanism such that rearward movement of the handle is resisted by the at least one resistance mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2023
    Assignee: NAUTILUS, INC.
    Inventors: Edana French, Kirk Tedsen, Bryan W. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 11298584
    Abstract: A training apparatus for the simulation of rowing training includes a rolling seat to be moved linearly back and forth on a guide on a frame. Two handles which can be rotated independently of one another are mounted on an oarlock shaft. The oarlock shafts are connected to a drive mechanism in a force-flow connection. Upon introduction of force to the handles, power is output to a braking device via a drive mechanism, which has a freewheel between the oarlock shafts and the braking device. Upon actuation of the handles in a first direction about the axis of the respective rowlock shafts, power is transmitted to the braking device, and, upon actuation of the handles in the opposite direction the handles return without power being transmitted to the braking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Assignee: BIOROWER Handelsagentur GmbH
    Inventors: Adolf Wamser, Dusan Adamovic, Aram Lemmerer
  • Patent number: 11298590
    Abstract: Disclosed are computer-implemented techniques for providing immediate feedback to rowers for training and other activities to improve competitiveness of rowing crews. The techniques include a computing device receiving from a set of stroke unit devices, data that represent changes in acceleration of users' seats corresponding to users' strokes, receiving reference stroke data corresponding to a reference user's stroke, and generating from the received data from the set of stroke unit devices and the received reference strokes data, feedback data that correspond to relative stroke timing differences of each of the users, relative to the reference stroke, and transmitting the generated feedback data to user devices according to a feedback mechanism. Various feedback mechanisms are disclosed including visual, audio and tactical feedback mechanisms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2022
    Inventor: Alexandra Lee
  • Patent number: 10828531
    Abstract: Among other things, a rowing exercise machine includes a movable inertial element, an eddy current brake coupled to the movable inertial element, a rowing grip coupled to the movable inertial element, and control circuitry coupled to the eddy current brake to cause a resistance to motion of the rowing grip during part of a rowing stroke. The resistance to motion of the rowing grip during the drive phase of the rowing stroke conforms to a target feel for a rower. The target feel corresponds to a feel for a rower of a target other rowing exercise machine or other target feel of interest.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2020
    Assignee: Hydrow, Inc.
    Inventors: Bruce Smith, Klaus Heribert Renner, William Churchill Taliaferro Burke, Jose Oscar Mur-Miranda, Christopher Olin Evans
  • Patent number: 10639520
    Abstract: A magnetic control water resistance rowing machine has a main rack, a ribbon, a ribbon recycling plate set, an aluminum wheel water resistance device set, a magnetic plate set and a seat cushion. The ribbon is connected with a ribbon recycling plate. The ribbon recycling plate set is mounted on the main rack by a torsion spring to recycle the ribbon when the ribbon is loosened; the aluminum wheel water resistance device set is mounted on the main rack and the aluminum wheel water resistance device set cooperates with the ribbon recycling plate set. The ribbon recycling plate set is connected to the aluminum wheel water resistance set drive; the magnetic plate is mounted on the main rack. The magnetic plate cooperates with the aluminum wheel water resistance. The main rack has a slide rail engagement and the seat cushion is slidably engaged with the slide rail engagement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2020
    Assignee: Amoy YG Sports Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yanwei Hou
  • Patent number: 10549169
    Abstract: A board paddling training apparatus for assisting in improving a user's paddling technique and strength. In particular, the board paddling training apparatus includes a buoyant board, such as a board adapted for surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, or other board-related sport that entails paddling, and includes a resistance mechanism that creates drag or resistance against a user's paddle stroke. Some implementations of the resistance mechanism can be adjustable in order to create a variety of resistance against the user's paddle stroke and board movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Assignee: Surfinshape LLC
    Inventor: John R. Haldeman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 10376735
    Abstract: A multi-functional rowing exerciser apparatus accommodates a plurality of rowing and paddling by connecting or releasing a cable system to selectively configure the rowing exerciser for sweep rowing, sculling oar rowing configuration to the Stand-Up-Paddling configuration in an easy and convenient manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2019
    Assignee: Lifecore Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Roger Bates, Marko Vujicic, Gregory Allen Wallace, Mark William Chiles
  • Patent number: 10279214
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multifunctional exercise apparatus for allowing a user to perform rowing exercise or other exercises. The exercise apparatus includes a frame, a sliding seat, a cord winder, a spiral spring connected to the cord winder, a cord connected to the cord winder, a flywheel for generating an exercise resistance, and one-way transmission mechanism connected between the cord winder and the flywheel. The user is able to seat on the sliding seat and slide backward and forward in accord with repeating movement of pulling the cord to perform the rowing exercise, or having lower limbs partially press upon the sliding seat and two hands grasp gripping portions at a front end of the frame to perform other exercises such as stretching exercises. When performing other exercises, a distal end of the cord is connected to the sliding seat and backward movement of the sliding seat would drive the flywheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2017
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hsin-Huang Chiang, Cheng-Kun Lee, Hsiang-Jung Chen, Shuo-Ying Lin, Joe Chen
  • Patent number: 10195480
    Abstract: The present invention is a horizontal rowing machine having a frame with a removable seat, adjustably mounted on the frame and an adjustable chest pad. The present invention has angled foot plates. The foot plates enable the user to use the machine in various positions. The present invention has two fixed multi-grip handles with 8 fixed hand positions and 6 positions on which to attach swivel handles. The swivel handles allow for a more natural and free form rowing movement. Maximal adjustability of all aspects of the machine allow for a more optimal and beneficial training exercise for any user, regardless of body size. The user can lift a desired weight by pulling the handles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Inventor: Sean Kelly
  • Patent number: 9914053
    Abstract: In some aspects, a system is provided that includes (1) a plurality of mobile devices; and (2) an application on each mobile device, the application adapted to (a) allow exercisers to form an exercise group; (b) track position or change in position of each exerciser in the exerciser group; and (c) display an avatar having a position that is controlled by a position or change in position of one or more member of the exercise group. Numerous other aspects are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2018
    Inventor: Brian M. Dugan
  • Patent number: 9901768
    Abstract: The present disclosure illustrates a rowing exercise machine which includes a support structure, a power output module, a cable rolling device, a cable, a handle assembly and an operating module. The power output module is disposed at an end of the support structure. The power output module includes a motor, a controlling device and an encoder. The controlling device is connected to the motor, and receives a sensing signal and a setting signal, and transmits a control signal. The encoder is electrically connected to the controlling device and configured to sense an operational state of the motor and output the sensing signal. The cable rolling device is coupled to a torque enhancing device. An end of the cable is wound on the cable rolling device. The handle assembly is coupled on the other end of the cable. The operating module is connected to the power output module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2018
    Assignee: Strength Master Fitness Tech. Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shu-Yao Wu
  • Patent number: 9789356
    Abstract: A compact, portable, lightweight, easily transportable leg press exercise apparatus to simulate both exercise and the daily activity of sitting in a microgravity environment. The exercise portion of the apparatus creates stress on the lower extremities by supplying a variable resistance to a reciprocating foot pedal by way of a coil spring and damper system acting through a four-bar linkage. The chair is adjustable in angle to fit each user and to simulate a force that is two-thirds of body weight. By combining resistance exercise and lower body negative pressure with the LBNP leg press exercise apparatus, the users experience one or more times body weight (BW) in stress on their musculoskeletal, cardiovascular and nervous systems. By achieving one times BW or greater (artificial gravity) during exercise and two-thirds BW during sitting, the gap between the precondition and post condition syndrome will become smaller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: The United States of America, as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventor: Christine M. Dailey
  • Patent number: 9005086
    Abstract: A portable rowing machine is disclosed that includes a tubular frame consisting of two parallel tubes positioned and supported by floor brackets, a seat that is removably situated on top of the tubular frame and slidable along the tubular frame on rollers mounted to the underside of the seat, swivel arms attached to brackets and extending perpendicularly outward from the tubular frame, and oar arms attached to the ends of the swivel arms. The tubular frame includes a telescoping portion enabling adjustment of the length of the frame from a compact storage size to a size desired for a users leg length. The swivel arm brackets are pivotally positionable in a storage position and a working position. The oar arms are adjustable in length to suit the users body size. A clutch bearing and band brake assembly provides oar arm motion resistance comparable to rowing a boat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Inventor: John J. O'Neil
  • Publication number: 20140364280
    Abstract: A board paddling training apparatus for assisting in improving a user's paddling technique and strength. In particular, the board paddling training apparatus includes a buoyant board, such as a board adapted for surfing, bodyboarding, paddleboarding, or other board-related sport that entails paddling, and includes a resistance mechanism that creates drag or resistance against a user's paddle stroke. Some implementations of the resistance mechanism can be adjustable in order to create a variety of resistance against a user's paddle stroke and board movement.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2013
    Publication date: December 11, 2014
    Inventor: Jay Haldeman
  • Patent number: 8708867
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame; a platform configured to receive a person in a standing position, the platform connected to the frame; a handheld component configured to be held by a person standing on the platform; and an impeller-driven fluid circulation system. Manipulation of the handheld component by a person standing on the platform results in driving of the impeller and circulation of fluid within the fluid circulation system. The platform may rock from side to side, whereby a person standing on the platform must maintain balance while manipulating the handheld component. The handheld component may simulate a paddle and may include an elongate shaft. In this respect, the paddle component is used by a person standing on the platform as if the paddle component were a paddle used in paddleboarding, including manipulating the paddle component through a rowing motion that preferably would be experienced when actually paddleboarding.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Season 4, LLC
    Inventors: Charlie Lumsden, Daniel Lee Bizzell, Karl Christopher Gabriel, Arthur Allen Henson, Thomas James Philpott, Michael Starkey
  • Patent number: 8622876
    Abstract: Rowing simulators that include a variety of features that provide one or more rowers with a rowing experience that more accurately simulates on-water rowing and/or provide enhanced training feedback. One feature is a rowing station that includes one or two oars each having a vertical-feel emulator implemented as a compliant guide follower that engages a corresponding oar guide during the drive phase of the rowing stroke so as to simulate an oar's engagement with water during on-water rowing. In other embodiments, the vertical-feel emulator is incorporated into an oar support. Other features include: stroke gauges that provide visual feedback on the various phases of a rower's stroke, including the catch phase, drive phase, finish phase, and recovery phase; an oar feathering indicator; and seats linked together for training rowers to row in unison, among others.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Rowing Innovations Inc.
    Inventor: Richard J. Kelliher
  • Patent number: 8337372
    Abstract: The invention relates to an exercise device for use by a user on a selected surface material comprising a grasping member having a first end and a second end, a first tool head mounted to the first end of the grasping member and a second tool head mounted to the second end of the grasping member. Each of the first tool head and the second tool head has sufficient structural rigidity to be interacted with the surface material without significant deformation whereby a user can perform exercises upon the selected surface material by physically interacting the first tool head and second tool head with the surface material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: BeachFit, LLC
    Inventor: Brenda Boterenbrood
  • Publication number: 20110275489
    Abstract: An exercise machine adapted for training watersports athletes has a pair of spaced-apart vertical columns each with hollow tubular body with a weighted plunger attached to a cable for vertical reciprocation while a user performs power and return stroke movements on an instrument attached to the other end of the cable. The plunger is hydraulically coupled to an air channel fed by an air-through valve sized to control air movement into the air channel by the rising plunger during a power stroke to approximate water resistance to an oar, paddle or arm in the water. The air channel has a release opening for releasing air balanced against the weight of the falling plunger to approximate lifting an oar, paddle, or arm out of the water on a return stroke. The exercise machine can be used to practice a wide range of watersports training exercises for swimming, paddleboarding, canoe paddling, rowing, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2010
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Inventor: Michael APAU
  • Patent number: 7946964
    Abstract: One embodiment of a lateral roll simulating assembly is provided which is adapted to attach to existing rowing exercise machines. It permits the user to experience various levels of physiological disequilibrium when a lack of proper balance control induces a sideways tipping action during a rowing workout. This facilitates the desirable and advantageous development of correct proprioceptive balance response using appropriate core musculature while practicing the rowing motion on a suspended rowing exercise machine. The apparatus comprises two floor-mounted members secured to each end of a rowing exercise machine that support the rowing exercise machine in a suspended condition. This assembly simulates lateral instability around the metacenter of any of a variety of rowing shells on water by allowing the rowing exercise machine to roll freely around a variety of longitudinal axes. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventors: Anne G. Gothro, Kirby T. Myers
  • Patent number: 7819782
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a supporting stage; a saddle arranged relatively for said supporting stage; a pedaling stage with a pair of pedals arranged relatively for said supporting stage; and a handle arranged relatively for said supporting stage. The pedaling stage is configured such that the pair of pedals are connected with one another via a first air pump.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Ya-Man Ltd.
    Inventor: Iwao Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20100240494
    Abstract: An apparatus for simulating sculling or rowing on water includes a support frame with foot rests, a sliding seat, bilateral oars that are rotationally coupled to a set of actuators, integrated input velocity and torque sensors, computer and computer display. Each actuator incorporates a mechanical transmission, a rotational inertial mass, a variable linear and a variable non-linear damping element. The damping elements can be controlled manually or automatically by computer programs under user control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Rafael R. Medina
  • Publication number: 20100190615
    Abstract: An exercise device or exercise device attachment with an energy absorbing component configured to change shape so as to absorb energy in response to a compressive force by the user. Said energy absorption component returns substantially to its first shape in response to the removal of the compressive force. The energy-absorbing apparatus is configured to reduce a reaction force exerted on the user of said exercise equipment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Publication date: July 29, 2010
    Applicant: Accelerate Inc.
    Inventors: David Gardner Baker, Patrick Michael Guida, Laurie A. Smith, Michael D. Ryan
  • Patent number: 7628739
    Abstract: A variable resistance device is adapted to be incorporated in an exercise machine to provide variable resistance. The device has a primary fluid chamber. A rotating mechanism rotates within the primary chamber. The rotation mechanism upon rotation encounters a degree of resistance dependent on the amount of fluid in the primary chamber. A secondary chamber is positioned within or proximate the primary chamber. The secondary chamber achieves and maintains an appropriate amount of the fluid in the primary chamber to provide a selected degree of resistance for the exercise machine. Fluid flows through the primary chamber into the secondary chamber and then back into the primary chamber. Variable control of the flow of fluid serves to establish and maintain the appropriate amount of fluid in the primary chamber required for a certain degree of resistance; and can provide differing degrees of resistance for the exercise machine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Gearon
  • Patent number: 7591766
    Abstract: The present invention is an exercise device of the rowing machine type, which may impose both flexion and extension forces against motion of a user with respect to the seat and/or arms of the exercise device. Rotation of the seat about a pitch axis may be provided to allow a user to impose forces against the seat pan more comfortably in opposition to seat travel flexion resistance, while rotationally free grips may allow the user to maintain proper orientation of the hands and wrists during exercise using the exercise device. Other improvements are discussed in the detailed description of the invention above.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Inventor: James A. Ellis
  • Patent number: 7470223
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus provides variable resistance and includes a high drag fan which includes a plurality of fan blades radially mounted on an axle. A multi-ratio pulley system is operably mounted to the axle with the differing ratios providing variable resistance. A cord is wound on a cord reel which is operably engaged with the multi-ratio pulley system. Thus, pulling the cord turns the cord reel which then rotates the multi-ratio pulley system and the high drag fan via the axle. The distal end of the cord opposing the cord reel has an apparatus attachment point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Douglas Haese
  • Patent number: 7381164
    Abstract: A rowing machine having a supporting frame with a seat movable thereon. The supporting frame is pivotally attached to an upright support of a base frame. A lifting device is pivotably interposed between the supporting frame and the base frame for adjusting the angle of the supporting frame relative to the base frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: Fitcrew Corp.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Smith, Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 7229388
    Abstract: An exercise rowing machine comprising: a main shank pivotally connected therebeneath with a linking-up member at its central area, the linking-up member has a transverse rod with two first connecting portions respectively on its two ends to correspondingly connect with the second connecting portions; and positioning members are provided to fix and release the first and the second connecting portions, so that the connecting rods and the transverse rod can be stretched out, and the operating rods can be collapsed and folded to be within a bottom surface of the main shank to reduce the space for storing and transporting; the main shank is provided on its rear end with a rear supporting stand able to be rotated and positioned to adjust the raising and lowering angle of the main shank relative to a front supporting stand, so that a user can obtain different effects of exercising in pursuance of different requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2007
    Inventor: Lien-Chuan Yang
  • Patent number: 7115077
    Abstract: An exercise rowing machine of which a main shank has thereon a seat slidable relatively thereto, the shank has on its front end two lateral pedals, and has on its front and rear ends respectively two supporting racks, and has therebeneath at its central area a connecting seat pivotally connected with one end of an adapter of which the other end is connected with a buffer, so that the adapter can be waved to and fro by a force. The adapter connects a transverse rod of which two ends respectively pivotally connect two operating rods that each has an upper and a lower section bending inwards one relative to the other for an obtuse angle; the operating rods are provided symmetrically at the two lateral sides of the shank, thereby when the machine is rowed forwards and rearwards, touching of the body of a user can be avoided; and when the machine is folded and collapsed about the shank which is being as a middle line, storing and transporting spaces can be effectively reduced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Inventor: Lien-Chuan Yang
  • Patent number: 7108639
    Abstract: A adjustable rowing machine having a flywheel rewinder coupled by a pull rope with a handgrip for creating a resilience, a supporting frame having a seat movable thereon and a guide device to move along an imaginary circular track, and a base frame. A lifting element is pivotally interposed between the supporting frame and the lifting element for lifting or lowering the supporting frame at a certain angle relative to the base frame so that the exercise position of an operator is changeable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Assignee: Fitcrew Corp.
    Inventors: Jeffrey A. Smith, Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 7022052
    Abstract: A collapsible boat rowing simulator includes a beam, a T-shaped front support connected to the front end of the beam having a counter and a pair of tread plates disposed thereon, a rear support connected to an underside adjacent rear end of the beam, a middle support secured to a middle underside of the beam, a pair of oars each having a large vertical tube on inner end, a small vertical tube on outer end and a stop rod on a top, a pair of T-shaped tubes each having a vertical portion inserted through the large vertical tubes secured on lower end by a pair of elastic fasteners and a transverse portion rotatably secured to two ends of a crossed rod on the middle support, a pair of arcuate grips each having a vertical axial rod rotatably inserted into the small vertical tubes, a pair of hydraulic cylinders each having one end pivoted a crossed rod of the rear support and the other end pivoted to the elastic fasteners, a seat slidably mounted on the beam having four rollers engaged into a pair of guides in later
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Inventor: Fen-Ying Lai
  • Patent number: 6980118
    Abstract: The present invention detects the squaring and feathering of an oar during rowing. The time interval between two consecutive feathers is measured, and it is used to calculate the stroke rating. It is mounted to an oar close to the grip of the oar. An enclosure houses a display, a sensor, a microcontroller, a power source and a clock which is a component of the microcontroller. The stroke rating is displayed on a display. A strap is attached to the enclosure. The strap fastens the enclosure to the oar. The direction of the rotation of the oar from the squared position to the feathered position is shown by the arrow. Because of its small size, the device does not hinder rowing while remaining in plain view of the rower, and because it does not use any external or rigidly mounted sensors it can easily be transported and used on various equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Vanja Buvac, Inc.
    Inventor: Vanja Buvac
  • Publication number: 20030153437
    Abstract: A rower exerciser includes a frame which is disposed on the floor to serve as a supporting frame, a slide rail connected between front end rear ends of the frame, and a slide seat slidably mounted on the rail to slidably reciprocate along the rail and being adapted for sitting by the user. Two sides of a front end of the slide rail are respectively connected to outwardly extending curved arm frames. Each of the arm frames is connected pivotally to a rocker via a universal connector. The rocker and a respective one of the arm frames are connected pivotally to a hydraulic rod via a pivot seat. By adjusting the foot pedals and the slide seat to be in a fixed mode or a slidable mode, and by virtue of the universal connector and the pivot seat, the rockers can rotatably swing to enable the user to simulate actual rowing actions and to provide various exercising effects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2002
    Publication date: August 14, 2003
    Inventor: Chung-Ting Tseng
  • Patent number: 6565488
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a base including a seat for supporting a user, a back frame rotatably secured on the base with a pivot axle for supporting the back of the user and for allowing the user to force and to rotate the back frame relative to the base about the pivot axle. A foot support is slidable relative to the base and selectively coupled to the back frame for allowing the back frame and the foot support to be moved in concert with each other. The back frame includes one or more brackets selectively secured to the base and the foot support with fasteners.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Inventor: Paul Chen
  • Patent number: 6142914
    Abstract: An exercise device is provided for removable attachment to the foot rests of a wheelchair to enable a person sitting in the seat of the wheelchair to exercise at least one of his or her arms and legs. The device includes a base slidably received on the foot rests and an exercising arrangement adjustably mounted on the base to accommodate the physical stature of a person sitting in the wheelchair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventors: Vincent R. Crawford, Robert E. Gunya
  • Patent number: 5779600
    Abstract: A rowing simulator including a frame, a seat slidably mounted on the frame, a pair of adjustable foot rests, and, on each side of the frame, a rotatably mounted flywheel, a driven wheel secured to the flywheel, a rotatably mounted drive wheel, and connector means interconnecting the drive wheel to the driven wheel. An oar is pivotally connected to a rotatable pivot linked to a first universal coupling. The latter is connected to a drive shaft which, in turn, is connected to a second universal coupling connected to the drive wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Leslie Pape
  • Patent number: 5586961
    Abstract: A universal aquatic exercise machine that includes a plurality of exercise devices, for example, a first exercise device rotatably mounted on a base that moves through a rotary path of motion, a second exercise device rotatably connected to the base that moves back and forth in a reciprocating motion and a third exercise device mounted on the base for reciprocating back and forth motion. The aquatic exercise machine includes a pivoting seat that permits the exercise devices to be performed in either a seated or an erect posture. The exercise devices may have fixed area resistance elements or variable area resistance elements. In addition, underwater footwear facilitates submerged leg exercises and activities such as sliding, skating and other activities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 24, 1996
    Inventor: Jeffrey T. Quint
  • Patent number: 5562576
    Abstract: A rowing machine for training rowers consisting of a round water tank with an inner and an outer wall and centrally located rowing stations with seats, slides, foot stretchers, and oarlocks is disclosed. The rowing stations are radially disposed within the inner wall. As the number of rowing stations is increased or decreased, the radius of the tank may be correspondingly increased or decreased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 8, 1996
    Inventor: Joseph D. Mangine
  • Patent number: 5529557
    Abstract: A frame has a base and four vertical members supporting a pair of longitudinal supports spaced evenly apart to define a slot. A pair of seats are arranged in opposition at the ends of the frame and a exercise arm is located between the seats. The exercise arm reciprocates between the seats, and has handles for gripping. A dashpot provides resistance to movement of the exercise arm. The device can be adapted for use by one or two users.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 25, 1996
    Inventor: Randy L. Barton
  • Patent number: 5505679
    Abstract: A recumbent leg and arm exercising machine is disclosed which may be used as a rower, a stepper and/or to perform a bench press-type exercise. The machine may also be used to exercise only the arms, only the legs, as well as both the arms and the legs. The exercising machine includes a seat, foot levers and arm levers, and is constructed so that the apparatus may be used for synchronized exercises in which selected or all levers move in synchronism. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the exercising machine includes right foot and arm levers coupled to move in synchronism in opposite directions, and left foot and arm levers coupled to move in synchronism in opposite directions. Preferably, the right levers and the left levers operate independently of each other. However, in alternate embodiments, the right and left levers may also be coupled to move in synchronism, so that the apparatus operates either as a rower or as a stepper, depending upon the arrangement for coupling the levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: Formula Ventures, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. McBride, Lin Siz-Pin
  • Patent number: 5496241
    Abstract: An exercise machine of the present invention is transformable between a first mode for simulating an activity such as skiing or rowing involving reciprocating linear motion and a second mode for simulating a cycling activity. The exercise machine comprises a frame, a shaft operatively connected to the frame for rotation about a shaft axis, a flywheel secured to the shaft and rotatable therewith, and a runner. A drive roller is operatively connected to the frame and is engageable with the runner such that forward or rearward movement of the runner causes the drive roller to rotate. A one-way clutch operatively connects the drive roller to the shaft so that the drive roller when rotated in a first direction causes rotation of the flywheel, and is free wheeling when rotated in a second opposite direction. A pair of offset cranks are operatively connectable to the shaft and a pair of foot pedals are connected to the cranks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Tyrone D. Sellers
  • Patent number: 5478296
    Abstract: Disclosed is a horizontal exerciser bike which mainly consists of a main support, a counter, a pair of linkages, and other related components. The main support is so designed that it horizontally extends along a longitudinal axis thereof and therefore has a low center of gravity. The linkages are separately disposed at two sides of the main support and each comprises a foot pedal post pivotally connected to a front end of the main support, an n-shaped bracket fixedly attached to a lower portion of the foot pedal post, a link pivotally connected at a front end to the n-shaped bracket and at a rear end to an inverted T-shaped coupler pivotally attached to one side of the main support, a cylinder pivotally connected at a front extension end to the inverted T-shaped coupler and fixedly connected at a rear end to a fixed pin disposed near a rear end of the main support, and a grip post adjustably connected to a middle portion of the inverted T-shaped coupler.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 26, 1995
    Inventor: Long-Hwei Lee
  • Patent number: 5441469
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a bench defining an aperture, a seat slidably mounted on the bench, first and second columns on which the bench is mounted, a board defining a series of apertures, a bolt insertable through the aperture defined in the bench into one of the apertures defined in the board for retaining the board in position in respect to the bench, a third column on which the board is mounted, two rods transversely projecting from the board in opposite directions for supporting feet of an exerciser, two wings pivotably linked to the bench between a folded position and an extended position, two resistance devices each secured to a corresponding one of the wings, two oars each linked to a corresponding one of the resistance devices so that there will be resistance when the oars are rowed, two feet pivotably linked to the second column, two hydraulic cylinders each connected between the bench and a corresponding one of the feet so that the exercise machine is rockable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Inventor: Minghwa Chern
  • Patent number: 5409435
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 25, 1995
    Inventor: John J. Daniels
  • Patent number: 5387169
    Abstract: A horizontal stepper apparatus including a pair of pedal assemblies connected to a pair of cable and pulley assemblies may be used to simultaneously exercise the arms and legs of a user, with resistence force being provided by a hydraulic cylinder. The apparatus may alternatively be utilized to separately exercise the arms by rotating a seat 180.degree..
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Greenmaster Industrial Corp.
    Inventor: Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 5382211
    Abstract: There is disclosed an improved rowing apparatus which can accommodate a plurality of rowers at the same time and which permits simulating increased speeds in the water. The apparatus has an oblong tank having disposed on each side thereof and spaced therefrom in parallel relationship rowing attachments including seats, oarlocks and oars to accommodate a plurality of rowers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 17, 1995
    Inventor: Frank Solymosi
  • Patent number: 5328424
    Abstract: An exercise device for people with lower body paralysis. The exercise device guides and resists the motion of the hands and feet away from and towards the trunk. The exercise device holds the feet at a nearly constant angle in relation to a line drawn between the ankles and hips. The arm motion is constantly mechanically linked to the leg motion so that voluntary arm motion causes motion of paralyzed legs. A knee guide keeps paralyzed legs in proper alignment. Arm motion controls the application of electrical stimulation to leg muscles. Electrical stimulation of leg muscles causes the generation of leg forces that contribute to the overcoming of the resistance to the movement of the hands and feet in relation to the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 12, 1994
    Inventor: Bruce C. Greco
  • Patent number: 5306219
    Abstract: A rowing machine for use indoors or outdoors, consisting of a rowing attachment with a sliding seat arrangement equipped with oars, which rowing attachment is mounted between two parallel, generally oblong water-filled tanks. Flow diverters are provided in the tanks to enhance water circulation and to simulate outdoor rowing conditions, including a longitudinal ducted assembly dividing the tank into two parallel sections to provide a circular flow path and having transverse passages for short circuitry of the circular flow of water. An enhanced diverting assembly is also provided at each end of the tank.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 26, 1994
    Inventor: Frank Solymosi