Abstract: A resistance device includes a first rotating assembly having a first rotating member, and a second rotating assembly having a second rotating member and a plurality of magnets. A transmission unit is connected to one of the rotating assemblies for driving rotation of the same. A drive unit is connected to the other one of the rotating assemblies, is configured to receive a control signal, and is configured to drive rotation of the other one of the rotating assemblies according to the received control signal. Eddy currents generated by the first rotating member provide resistance to the transmission unit. A resistance training machine having the resistance device is also disclosed.

Abstract: This disclosure addresses an exercise device adapted to enable the user to perform a salmon ladder exercise. The ladder includes a frame with at least one pair of support protrusions that receive an exercise bar. A bearing surface that receives the shaft of a catch array rotatably mounted in the frame. The device further includes a braking mechanism that applies a variable suppression force to the catch array shaft, the variable suppression adjusting the force required to rotate the catch array shaft in the bearing surface.

Abstract: A pedal exerciser includes a worm shaft meshed with a worm wheel. A crank drives rotation of the worm wheel through two pedals. A rotary disc assembly is journaled to and rotatable with the worm shaft. The rotary disc assembly has a conductive member that is non-magnetizable and that is rotatable around an axis of the worm shaft. A magnetic assembly is disposed near the conductive member and has a magnet facing the conductive member. The magnet produces a drag force to resist an exercising force when the conductive member is rotated to move past the magnet. An adjustment assembly moves the magnetic assembly toward or away from the rotary disc assembly to vary the magnitude of the drag force.

Abstract: This disclosure addresses an exercise device adapted to enable the user to perform a salmon ladder exercise. The ladder includes a frame with at least one pair of support protrusions that receive an exercise bar. A bearing surface that receives the shaft of a catch array rotatably mounted in the frame. The device further includes a braking mechanism that applies a variable suppression force to the catch array shaft, the variable suppression adjusting the force required to rotate the catch array shaft in the bearing surface.

Abstract: A magnetic resistance structure and an exercise machine having the same are disclosed. The magnetic resistance structure includes a seat body, a turning disc unit, a movable seat, a control unit, and a magnetic field component. The turning disc unit is pivotally connected to the seat body in an axial direction. The turning disc unit has a non-magnetic induction part extending in a radial direction. The control unit is connected with the movable seat for controlling the movable seat to approach or move away from the non-magnetic induction part. The magnetic field component includes a first component and a second component. The first component is located on the seat body. The second component is located on the movable seat. The first component and the second component selectively generate a magnetic field by changing their relative positions.

Abstract: An adjustable weight lifting bench includes a frame, a seat pad, and a back pad. The back pad is pivotably coupled to the frame about a first pivot axis and angularly adjustable between a plurality of user-selectable incline and decline positions. A hydraulic mechanism supports the back pad in the incline and decline positions. A movable operating lever operably coupled to the hydraulic mechanism operates to change the mechanism between an activated condition in which the back pad is movable and a deactivated condition in which the back pad locks into a selected one of the positions. When the mechanism is in activated condition, applying pressure against the back pad the lowers the back pad and removing the pressure raises the back pad. In one embodiment, the mechanism automatically raises the back pad when the pressure is removed and the mechanism is in the deactivated condition.

Abstract: A portable rehab station, including left and right outriggers, each having a forward end and a rearward end, the left and right outriggers being pivotally connected at the bottom ends of the respective left and right frame members to pivot between retracted and expanded positions, the retracted position including the left and right outriggers being generally mutually parallel, and the expanded position including the left and right outriggers being spread out at an angle of between about six and ten degrees relative to each other; a front, ground-engageable caster connected to the forward end of each of the left and right outriggers and a rear, ground-engageable caster connected to the rearward end of each of the left and right outriggers; and an actuator assembly connected with the frame and operably connected with the left and right outriggers to selectively pivot the left and right outriggers between the retracted and expanded positions.

Abstract: A rotary exercise system in one embodiment includes a chassis configured for mounting to stationary support members, a rotational support shaft rotatably coupled to chassis, and handle bar assembly coupled to the support shaft and manually rotatable therewith by a user. A variable resistance mechanism applies a user-adjustable rotational resistance force on the support shaft, which changes the force required to be applied by the user to rotate the handle bar assembly during an exercise routine. In some embodiments, the resistance mechanism may be a frictional resistance mechanism, such as a drum or disc brake assembly. A user-operated control actuator allows the user to readily change resistance settings to increase or decrease the rotational resistance imparted to the support shaft by the resistance mechanism. In some implementations, the chassis may be detachably mounted on vertical supports of a power rack and adjustable in height for performing different exercise routines.

Abstract: A portable rehab station, including left and right outriggers, each having a forward end and a rearward end, the left and right outriggers being pivotally connected at the bottom ends of the respective left and right frame members to pivot between retracted and expanded positions, the retracted position including the left and right outriggers being generally mutually parallel, and the expanded position including the left and right outriggers being spread out at an angle of between about six and ten degrees relative to each other; a front, ground-engageable caster connected to the forward end of each of the left and right outriggers and a rear, ground-engageable caster connected to the rearward end of each of the left and right outriggers; and an actuator assembly connected with the frame and operably connected with the left and right outriggers to selectively pivot the left and right outriggers between the retracted and expanded positions.

Abstract: An exercise device having therapeutic properties is provided. The device includes a first element and a second element relatively movable with respect to the first element. A resistance-generating mechanism links the first and second elements to impede the relative motion of the first and second elements so that the user must exercise or expend energy to overcome the resistance of the first and second elements. A first magnet is disposed in at least one of the first or second elements in a location where a user's body part contacts the first or second element during use. The magnetic field of the first magnet is directed into the user's body part for therapeutic effect, preferably from the north pole of the magnet. A second magnet or set of magnets may be employed for therapeutic effect and/or to increase the resistance of the device by using magnetic interaction (either attraction or repulsion) to further impede the relative motion of the first and second elements.

Abstract: A flywheel assembly for exercise devices includes a flywheel. A first disc and a second disc sequentially received in the flywheel and securely attached to each other. A control plate is rotatably sandwiched between the first disc and the second disc. Multiple magnetic devices are respectively and radially connected to the control plate. A shaft centrally extends through the first disc, the second disc and the flywheel, and laterally mounted onto the second disc, wherein the flywheel is rotatable relative to the first disc, the control plate with the magnetic devices and the second disc. A drive device is laterally mounted onto the second disc for driving the control plate and adjusting the damping to the flywheel when the control plate is rotated relative to the first disc and the second disc due to the operation from the drive device.

Abstract: A swimmer training apparatus includes a housing having a rotatable spool mounted therein and defining a longitudinal spool axis. The rotatable spool includes a cylindrical outer surface and a spooler is mounted to the housing and adapted to axially advance a swimmer tethering line along the cylindrical outer surface during playing out or taking up the swimmer tethering line. The swimmer training apparatus further includes a torque transfer device coupled between a motor and the rotatable spool and including a magnetic field generator configured to generate a magnetic field. The torque transfer device further includes a rotatable mechanism fixed to rotate with the rotatable spool and a rotatable mechanism fixed to rotate with the motor. One of the rotatable mechanisms includes a magnetically permeable medium adapted via interacting with the magnetic field to transfer a torque between the first rotatable mechanism and the second rotatable mechanism during rotating the rotatable spool.

Abstract: A wheelchair exercise apparatus has a platform which will support a wheelchair. The platform has an elongate slot which the driving wheels of the wheelchair can drop slightly into. An elongate roller, having a central axis which is vertically below the center line of the slot, is movable between a lowered position where it is substantially below the upper surface of the platform and a raised position where it projects through the slot and extends partially above the upper surface of the platform. A locking system holds the wheelchair while the roller is being moved to its raised position and during the exercise period.

Abstract: A weighing system, using the principle of electromagnetic force compensation, which includes a permanent magnet system (14) having an air gap, a shielding cover (12), a coil (13) located inside the air gap, a transmission lever (7) to whose longer lever arm the coil is attached, and upon whose shorter lever arm the weight transferred by the load receiver acts, a position sensor (20, 21, 22) which detects the position of the transmission lever and which is situated in the vicinity of the coil, and a control amplifier (16) for controlling the current passing through the coil. Further, at least one vertical support (25) is connected to the transmission lever in the vicinity of the coil and the position sensor and projects through an opening (27) in the shielding cover. A counterweight (26) is placed on this/these support(s) closely above the shielding cover.

Abstract: The present invention provides a power generation device for exercise equipment including a fixing seat, a swinging seat and a power generating component. The joint and positioning end of the swinging seat has a hinge connection part to be connected with the fixing seat, and the power generating component is configured on a preset position on the swinging seat. A magnetic lifting component is configured to cause magnetic repelling between the swinging end of the swinging seat and the fixing seat, so that the swinging end of the swinging seat can be elastically lifted. The driven part of the power generating component will constantly maintain tight contact with the flywheel of exercise equipment. The magnetic lifting component can exert a magnetic repulsing function without elastic fatigue and solid abrasion.

Abstract: An exercise system includes a user input arrangement; a rotatable member that rotates in response to an input force applied by a user on the user input arrangement; a power sensing arrangement that senses power applied to the rotatable member due to the input force applied by the user; and a variable resistance arrangement interconnected with the power sensing arrangement and with the user input arrangement. The resistance arrangement applies resistance to rotation of the rotatable member, and is variable in response to the power sensing arrangement to vary the resistance applied to the rotatable member. The variable resistance arrangement may be a brake that interacts with the rotatable member to resist rotation of the rotatable member, and to thereby resist the input force applied by the user. The variable resistance arrangement includes a controller for controlling the brake in response to the power sensing arrangement.

Abstract: A load applying device includes a rotary member rotatably supported on a base with a spindle, and a magnetic device adjustable concentrically relative to the rotary member, to adjust and to apply a retarding force against the rotary member. A lever may support the magnetic device, and has a curvature corresponding to that of the rotary member. The base includes a casing having two grooves for slidably receiving fasteners which may be threaded to the lever, for guiding the lever to move relative to the casing and the rotary member. Two blocks are engaged with the lever, and a moving device may move the blocks toward and away from each other, to adjust the lever relative to the rotary member.

Abstract: A linear magnetic damper includes a magnetically attractive rail, a damper body movable along the magnetically attractive rail and having a longitudinal passage, which accommodates the magnetically attractive rail, and having a plurality of openings symmetrically formed at two sides thereof and respectively arranged in alignment, and a plurality of magnetic members respectively mounted in the openings at two sides of the damper body for applying a magnetic force to the magnetically attractive rail.

Abstract: A reduced drag wet disc brake assembly is disclosed in which the viscosity of the fluid in the assembly is capable of changing. At higher traveling speeds, the viscosity of the fluid is low. However, when the viscosity of the fluid increases the speed of the vehicle decreases. The wet disc brake assembly comprises a brake cavity, a rotating plate disposed within the cavity that is rotatingly connected to the hub, two non-rotating plates disposed within the cavity on either side of the rotating plate, a current source connected to the rotating and non-rotating plates, and an electrorheological fluid filling the brake cavity. The viscosity of the electrorheological fluid changes depending on the electric current experienced by the fluid. In an alternative embodiment, the brake assembly also includes a coiled conductive wire connected to a current source to produce a magnetic field and the cavity is filled with magnetic Theological fluid instead of electrorheological fluid.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a weight lifting exerciser with frames, an adjustable cushion, an upright post, a magnetic resistance device movable through a shaft, a resistance adjusting element and pulling grips. The magnetic resistance device includes a coiling wheel, a unidirectional flywheel and an automatic coiling apparatus. A magnet set is fitted to one side of the unidirectional flywheel in such a manner that said magnet set is situated at the rim of the unidirectional flywheel and kept slightly away therefrom without contact therewith. In addition, an electronic resistance adjusting element is utilized to drive said magnet set for adjusting the clearance between the unidirectional flywheel and the magnet set so as to obtain an expected exercise resistance.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a magnetic control multifunctional exercise apparatus and includes a base frame, an upright rod connected to a bottom of the base frame, a seat pad, a back pad, two hollow supporting arms pivotably connected at a top of the upright rod, a resisting arm pivotably connected at a front of the base frame and a magnetic control resisting mechanism connected to the base frame. A plurality of pulleys are utilized in combination with two ropes to connect the supporting arms, the resisting arm, and the magnetic control resisting mechanism so that a user can pull the ropes of the supporting arms or push the resisting arm. A flywheel of the magnetic control resisting mechanism will unidirectionally turn to achieve the expected magnetic resistance.

Abstract: An exercise resistance device for use in an exercise apparatus includes a rotatable shaft and an impeller rotatable within a fluid filled sealed chamber. A rotating member is joined for rotation with the rotatable shaft. The rotating member is external to the sealed chamber and is magnetically coupled to the impeller.

Abstract: This invention relates to an electromechanical arm and accessories which are mountable on a battery powered wheelchair and used to grasp objects in the personal environment of the operator. The device is designed for simplicity of operation and comprises lower arm, mid arm, and forearm components which are rotationally and pivotally interconnected and selectively rotated through the utilization of a controller which is preferably disposed upon the battery powered wheelchair. The accessories include end-effectors (also called grippers), with features that are task specific or for general manipulation, other tools and means of holding tools, baskets, pouches, holders and other means of storing objects and tools, a variety of input devices that are tailored to the needs of the operator, a sleeve for protection, aesthetics, and increased functionality (with pockets and other means of holding objects), and mounting hardware for the electromechanical arm and associated components.

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: 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: This invention provides an inexpensive athletic exercising system for development of muscles of the athlete to increase the velocity and strength of movement of a body member away from an initial position toward a further position employing in a preferred embodiment of the invention a set of two magnetic members for magnetic retention together with a predetermined magnetic force. The first magnetic member is affixed to an athletic vehicle, such as a tennis racquet, ball bat or hockey stick, to be manipulated by said athlete. The second magnetic member is positioned at a restrained position from which an athletic stroke is initiated for magnetic retention together with the first magnetic member. This system permits an athlete to develop strength and speed in muscular reaction over an athletic stroke by manual manipulation of the athletic vehicle to overcome the predetermined magnetic force while permitting a substantially unimpeded follow through stroke after the initial magnetic force is overcome.

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: 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: This invention describes an exercise machine which is operated in a manner similar to paddling a Kayak or other water craft with a double blade paddle. The device incorporates a "T" bar shaped handle assembly centrally positioned in front of a seated operator and connected at its base with an articulating joint to a torque resisting mechanism. The articulating joint allows the operator to manipulates the handle bar in a pattern similar to that of paddling a Kayak as this configuration allows the handle bar to pivot and be positioned from side to side with a similar freedom of movement experienced with a Kayak type double blade paddle. Only the rotational component of the handle bar movement induced by paddle stroke motions are transmitted through the articulating joint and resisted by the torque resistance mechanism.

Abstract: An exercise machine includes a switched reluctance motor which drives a moveable surface upon which a user can exercise. A controller which is responsive to sudden load changes on the moveable surface controls the torque developed by the motor substantially to maintain a desired motor speed output without the need for a flywheel. In a first embodiment, the controller uses a feedback signal from a rotor position encoder and a motor speed indicator to control the motor output using a proportional-plus-integral signal processor. In a second embodiment, a composite state observer is used to provide estimates of the rotor position, motor speed and load disturbance states from which real time closed loop control of the motor speed with load disturbances on the moveable surface is effected. Corresponding methods also are disclosed.

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: A variable resistane 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 resistance device resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only.

Abstract: To provide controlled amounts of resistance to movement in exercise equipment or in orthotic devices, a control module has cooperating resistance elements. The force between the elements is varied in accordance with the position of the elements with respect to each other. For example the control module can connect two splints of a knee brace so that the resistance to flexion and extension are programmed in accordance with the position of the leg and thigh with respect to each other.

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 motorized exercise apparatus energized by a power source. An electronically commutated motor drives the exercise apparatus. A commutation switch selectively connects the power source to the motor and conducts a switch current when the power supply is connected to the motor. A safety shutdown switch responds to a safety shutdown signal. The safety shutdown switch has a first mode wherein the power source is connected to the motor, and a second mode wherein the power source is disconnected from the motor. A threshold circuit associated with the commutation switch generates a switch current signal representative of switch current. The threshold circuit comprises a threshold detector responsive to the switch current signal for generating the safety shutdown signal and placing and maintaining the safety shutdown switch in the second mode when the switch current signal indicates the switch current is above a threshold.

Abstract: Resistance in a rowing exerciser may be adjusted by varying the distance between a magnet set and a magnetically conductive flywheel that is attached to a second wheel having a cord wound there around and connected to a handle which is pulled by a user. A spiral spring engaged with the second wheel causes retraction of the cord after it is extended by the pulling action.

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: The invention relates to magnetorheological (MR) fluid devices and the process of controlling the force in exercise equipment by utilizing the MR fluid devices. The MR fluid devices include rotary and linear acting varieties and are useful for controlled forces in exercise bicycles, recumbent exercisers, ski machines, rowing machines, and stair stepper machines. The rotary MR fluid device is comprised of a rotor supported by bearings and received within a housing. An MR fluid is received adjacent the rotor and within a cavity in the housing and the MR fluid is controlled by an applied magnetic field to vary the operating torque resistance. Spring biasing the rotor allows for relaxed tolerances. Optimization of the Ri/Ro ratio is described which reduces the size and weight of the device. The linear acting version utilizes simple extensible pumps and an external MR fluid valve to provide a modularized system.

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 therapeutic wrist rotator provides for the passive rotation of the wrist of a user of the device for rehabilitation of the wrist after injury or disease. The device includes a case which is adapted to be immovably affixed to a stationary object in order to resist the forces applied during use. The case includes an electric motor driving a reduction drive to provide relatively slow rotational speed and relatively high torque to an output shaft. The output shaft includes a handgrip extending therefrom. On/off and rotational direction switches are provided to control the operation of the device, which may be powered by conventional alternating current or by one or more batteries. A protractor dial surrounding the output shaft provides an indication of the rotation achieved during use of the device, and a pair of indicators provides an indication of the maximum rotational movement in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing feedback to a user of a weight stack machine having weights for lifting has an enclosure adapted for attachment to the weight stack machine. A weight sensor weight for determining the number of weights lifted is provided as well as an means for detecting the motion of the weights during a lift. An electronic detector is operatively coupled to the weight sensor and the encoder for computing data describing the number of weights lifted. An interface for transmitting the computed data from the electronic detector to a central storage and the display is provided. The interface also receives information from the central storage and displays it on the display.

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 resistance means resists a user-supplied force in one rotational direction only.

Abstract: A passive exercise apparatus includes an interface member for coupling to a user's limb. An arm member is coupled to the interface member by a wrist joint. The wrist joint has rotational motion about three axes. A first link is coupled to the arm member by a sliding joint. The sliding joint allows translational motion of the arm member relative to the first link. A second link is rotatably coupled to the first link by a first rotary joint. A third link is rotatably coupled to the second link by a second rotary joint. A first brake is coupled to the first rotary joint for resisting movement of the first rotary joint. A second brake is coupled to the second rotary joint for resisting movement of the second rotary joint. A third brake is coupled to the arm member for resisting movement of the arm member. The user is capable of interfacing with the apparatus to exercise a six degree of freedom motion.

Abstract: A table is slidably supported on a chassis which is tiltably supported on a base or support frame. A motorized tilt control device allows the chassis and table to be tilted and the weight of the user made available to produce a load against which exercising can be carried out. The movement of the chassis is dampened using magnetic dampening units.

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: Apparatus for exercising a user's abdominal muscles and/or back muscles. This exercise apparatus includes a dynamic means in the form of an upper frame which is pivotally attached to a lower form. With the use of the user's abdominal and/or back muscles, the dynamic means produces a forward folding movement and a return straightening movement. A framework means in the form of a vertical frame affixed to a horizontal frame which maintains the vertical frame in an upright position supports the dynamic means. This exercise apparatus also includes a resistance means for opposing the forward folding movement and/or the return straightening movement. Various resistant means include fly wheel-fan, electro-magnetic and weight stack.

Abstract: A magnetic adjustable loading device with eddy current comprises a flywheel and a rotor made from metal conductor. A stator comprises with a magnetic plate and permanent magnet. By changing the air gap between the rotor and stator, the magnetic flux density is changed. Characterized in that the axial displacement of the stator is replaced by a stator which performs the radial displacement. The loading or resistance can be adjusted in a stepless manner. The overall dimension of the loading device can be reduced and it can be applied in a more flexible and subtle way.

Abstract: A portable controllable fluid device (20a) for rehabilitation of injured limbs, appendages and joints (33a). The rehabilitation device (20a) includes a first bracket (22a) for fixedly securing to a first body part, such as a lower leg (25), a second bracket (24a) for fixedly securing to a second body part, such as a foot (26), and a controllable fluid brake (27a) such as a magnetorheological fluid brake including a magnetorheological fluid contained therein having a carrier fluid and disbursed magnetic particles, attached between the first bracket (22a) and second bracket (24a). The controllable fluid brake (27a), preferably acts in a rotary fashion and provides resistive forces about an axis adjacent said body joint (33a) to exercise the muscles upon movement of said first bracket (22a) relative to said second bracket (24a) resulting from movement of the user's first body part relative to the second body part.

Abstract: An eddy current brake for use with exercise training devices, such as bicycle, ski and rowing exercise devices. The eddy current brake includes a nonmagnetic, electrically conductive disk that is rotatably mounted between one or more electromagnets. The electromagnets introduce eddy currents within the rotating disk. The disk is formed of a copper alloy having between approximately 5.0% to 15.0% zinc by weight. In one embodiment of the invention, the disk is formed of copper alloy 220, comprising 90.0% copper and 10.0% zinc.