Aquatic exercise bicycle

Abstract

An aquatic exercise cycle including a frame receptive to be at least partially submersed in a liquid medium; a seat adjustably secured to the frame; a pair of handles operably coupled to at least one of the frame and the seat for an operator to hold onto; a crank assembly operably coupled to said frame having an input shaft rotatable with a pair of user operated pedals; and a variable resistance mechanism in operable communication with the input shaft and receptive to varying a resistance of rotation of the input shaft. The aquatic exercise cycle allows the user to adjust at least the seat relative to the crank assembly to select either an upright riding position or a recumbent riding position.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Application No. 60/489,946, filed Jul. 22, 2003 the contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates generally to exercise equipment and in particular to an aquatic exercise bicycle for providing exercise in a liquid medium. More particularly, the invention relates to an aquatic exercise bicycle that may be adjusted and ridden in a recumbent or upright bicycle configurations.

The benefits of aerobic exercise and particularly jogging are well known. Jogging is not suggested for persons who are prone to back, knee, and foot problems because the inherent impact of the feet on the ground surface is often the cause of peripheral vascular insufficiency or injury to the legs, ankles, and back. Invalids, osteoarthritic, and postoperative patients are given alternative forms of exercise such as swimming, which does not necessarily exercise the muscles which come into play in running or jogging.

Aquatic exercise, and jogging apparatus are known in the art. There are several patents which disclose devices which are used for exercising in water, and jogging devices used out of water (i.e., treadmills). For example, one device for exercising in water includes U.S. Pat. No. 5,665,039 to Wasserman et al., which disclose an upright exercycle fixedly attached to a walkway of the pool. However, this design is limited to adjustment of the seat relative to the fixed crank and directed toward exercising in an upright position only. This design does not allow an operator to pedal the exercycle in a supine position as in a recumbent bicycle configuration. The advantage of a stationary recumbent bicycle as opposed to a stationary upright bicycle is that the user is positioned in a sitting position with the legs extending forwardly which reduces strain and stress on the spine and back muscles.

Current exercise bicycles can be classified into three categories; (1) common bicycle held stationary while applying resistance to the rear wheel, (2) sitting exercise bicycles, and (3) semi-recumbent exercise bicycles. Units of the bicycle type are typically used by persons who want to simulate outdoor cycling for training purposes. With this form of exercise bicycle the weight of a user may be supported by both a handlebar and a seat. The sitting type refers to exercise bicycles where the user's weight is substantially supported by a seat and the crank and pedals are positioned below and shortly forward of the user. The semi-recumbent type refers to exercise bicycles where the user's weight is substantially supported by a seat and possibly a seat back. The crank and pedals are positioned substantially forward of the user on a substantially equal level with the seat.

Each type of exercise exercises somewhat different muscle groups. The different configurations of exercise bicycles also provide differing levels of comfort for each user. For example, the classical position of a machine of the bicycle type provides the realistic body position and motion that are essential for accurate simulation of outdoor cycling. The classical position, however, may require a significant portion of the user's weight to be supported by the arms and upper body of the user. Such a position may be uncomfortable for an elderly user.

Accordingly, it would be an advancement in the field to provide an exercise bicycle on which a user is able to accurately simulate the classical cycling position, while also allowing for an alternate semi-recumbent position. Such a bicycle would increase the range of users of differing abilities that may efficiently exercise with a single bicycle. Additionally, such a bicycle usable in a liquid medium, such as a swimming pool, would provide a variety of workouts for a user, thus, promoting interest and provide a method for exercising different muscle groups, while limiting harmful impact on the user because of buoyancy provided by the liquid medium. Furthermore, there is a desire for such an aquatic exercise bicycle to be easily disposed and positioned within the liquid medium, while remaining stable during operation.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The above discussed and other drawbacks and deficiencies are overcome or alleviated by an aquatic exercise cycle that includes a frame receptive to be at least partially submersed in a liquid medium; a seat adjustably secured to the frame; a pair of handles operably coupled to at least one of the frame and the seat for an operator to hold onto; a crank assembly operably coupled to said frame having an input shaft rotatable with a pair of user operated pedals; and a variable resistance mechanism in operable communication with the input shaft and receptive to varying a resistance of rotation of the input shaft. The aquatic exercise cycle allows the user to adjust at least the seat relative to the crank assembly to select either an upright riding position or a recumbent riding position. In an exemplary embodiment, the seat and the crank assembly are adjustable relative to the frame to select either an upright riding position or a recumbent riding position.

The above-discussed and other features and advantages of the present invention will be appreciated and understood by those skilled in the art from the following detailed description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Referring to the exemplary drawings wherein like elements are numbered alike in the several FIGURES:

FIG. 1 is a side view of an aquatic exercise bicycle having a seat and crank adjusted in a supine or recumbent position in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is illustrates the aquatic exercise bicycle of FIG. 1 having the seat and crank adjusted in an upright position;

FIG. 3 is front perspective view of the aquatic exercise bicycle as in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the of the aquatic exercise bicycle of FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the aquatic exercise bicycle as in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary embodiment of a variable resistance mechanism that may be employed with a crank assembly to vary a resistance of pedaling by an operator;

FIGS. 7A and 7B depict an alternative exemplary embodiment of another variable resistance mechanism that may be employed with the variable resistance mechanism of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 depicts a partial cross section view of one beveled pulley half engaged with a pulley belt illustrating relative displacement between a pair of pulley halves dependent on a distance therebetween;

FIG. 9 depicts an alternative exemplary embodiment of another variable resistance mechanism that may be employed with the variable resistance mechanism of FIG. 6 illustrating a variably displaced input wheel relative to an output disk to vary a gear ratio therebetween;

FIG. 10 depicts an alternative exemplary embodiment of FIG. 9 illustrating a variably displaced input wheel relative to an output cone to vary a gear ratio therebetween;

FIGS. 11 and 12 depict alternative exemplary embodiments of another variable resistance mechanism that may be employed with the variable resistance mechanism of FIG. 6 illustrating a variably displaced input wheels relative to a pair of a spaced output disks to vary an amount of friction on the input wheels therebetween; and

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict alternative exemplary embodiments of another variable resistance mechanism that may be employed with the variable resistance mechanism of FIG. 6 illustrating a variably displaced input shaft relative to an output shaft to vary a speed of rotation of said input shaft depending coaxial displacement of the input shaft from the output shaft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a side view of an aquatic exercise bicycle 10 in an embodiment of the invention. The aquatic exercise bicycle 10 includes a frame 12 having a seat 14 operably coupled to frame 12 via a seat post 24, recumbent handles 16 operably connected to either the seat 14 or seat post 15, upright handles 18 extending from frame 12, and a crank assembly 20 secured to frame 12. Frame 12 is configure as a singular tube frame having an arch shape, however, other suitable configurations are contemplated suitable to the desired end purpose. Frame 12 includes feet 22 extending from ends 23 defining frame 12 to stabilize the aquatic exercise bicycle 10. The entire aquatic exercise bicycle 10, or at least a substantial portion thereof, is intended to be immersed in water, such as a swimming pool, for example, when in operation. A user operates pedals 21 extending from cranks 19 operably connected to an input shaft (not shown).

Seat 14 is mounted on seat post 24 that rides in a slot 26 configured in a track 28 depending from frame 12. A knob having a threaded fastener generally shown at 27 secures the post 24 in a fixed location relative to track 28. Tilt of the seat 14 may be adjusted using a same knob or a separate further knob. In FIG. 1, seat 14 is shown in the recumbent position.

Although track 28 is shown and described as depending from frame 12, it will be recognized that track 28 having a slot 26 may be configured in frame 12. In either case, slot 26 provides infinite adjustment for translation of seat 14 via seat post 24 substantially parallel with frame 12 within the bounds of slot 26. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that slot 26 may be substituted with a plurality of discrete slots or apertures 26 along a length of track 28 or frame 12 providing discrete adjustability for seat 14 via seat post 24. In this manner, seat 14 may be translated relative to frame 12 and crank assembly 20 to select either an upright or a recumbent riding position depending on the relative location of seat 14 with respect to crank assembly 20.

In an exemplary embodiment, crank assembly 20 is secured to frame 12 through two supports 30 and 32. Support 30 is pivotally connected to frame 12 and to a housing 31 of the crank assembly 20. Support 32 is pivotally connected to housing 31 of crank assembly 20 at one end. The other end of support 32 rides in a slot 34 configured in a track 36 depending from frame 12 forward of track 28. A knob having a threaded fastener generally shown at 38 secures support 32 relative to track 36. In FIG. 1, the crank assembly 20 is shown in the recumbent position.

Although track 36 is shown and described as depending from frame 12, it will be recognized that track 36 having a slot 34 may be configured in frame 12. In either case, slot 34 provides infinite adjustment for translation of one end of support 32 substantially parallel with frame 12 within the bounds of slot 34. Alternatively, it is also contemplated that slot 34 may be substituted with a plurality of discrete slots or apertures 34 along a length of track 36 or frame 12 providing discrete adjustability for support 32. In this manner, crank assembly 20 may be positioned relative to frame 12 and crank assembly 20 to select either an upright or a recumbent riding position depending on the relative location of seat 14 with respect to crank assembly 20.

It will be recognized by one skilled in the pertinent art that although a pin and slot arrangement have been described with reference to translation of one end of support 32 and seat 14 via seat post 24, any suitable connection is contemplated that allows such translation or positioning of seat 14 relative crank assembly 20. For example, crank assembly 20 may be supported via a single support 32 absent support 30. In this example, crank assembly 20 is pivotally attached to frame 12 at a first location and a second location. The crank assembly is attached to the first location using support 32 having a first end pivotally extending from the crank assembly 20 and an opposite second end realeasably coupled along a length of frame 12 at the first location depending on a selected riding position. Here the second location may include one end of housing 31 pivotally attached to frame 12 allowing use of a single support 32 to pivotally translate input shaft generally shown at 50 in FIGS. 1 and 2 about the second location corresponding to direct pivotal attachment of housing 31 at an opposite end to frame 12 coincident with the second location.

FIG. 2 shows the aquatic exercise bicycle 10 of FIG. 1 in the upright position with the recumbent handles 16 removed. Seat 14 has been moved towards upright handles 18 via movement of seat post 24 in track 28. Support 32 has been moved toward seat 14 in track 36. Thus, seat 14 is positioned substantially directly over the crank assembly 20 for the upright riding position.

FIGS. 3-5 are various perspective views of the aquatic exercise bicycle 10 in both the upright and recumbent riding positions. FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate a further knob 51 in conjunction with handles 18 for raising and lowering the handles, as known in the pertinent art.

FIG. 6 depicts an exemplary variable resistance mechanism that may be incorporated in the crank assembly 20. Pedals 21 are mechanical coupled to gears 42 and 44 which when operated, pump fluid from an inlet 46 to an outlet 48. It is envisioned that input shaft 51 (FIGS. 1 and 2) may be operably connected to one of the gears 42 and 44 via a corresponding shaft extending through one of the gears 42 and 44 via a transmission means, such as a belt or chain, for example, but not limited thereto. A handle 50 is attached to a restrictor plate 52 by a threaded shank 54. As handle 50 is turned, restrictor plate 52 is moved into and out of outlet 48. This provides adjustable resistance and approaches an infinite resistance as outlet 48 becomes completely blocked. The fluid circulated by gears 42 and 44 may be the fluid in which the aquatic exercise bicycle 10 is immersed or may be a self contained closed fluid system with appropriate reservoirs.

FIGS. 7-14 depict alternative mechanisms for generating variable resistance. Each mechanism includes an input shaft, which is operably coupled to both pedals 21 and an output shaft coupled to one of gears 42 or 44. By adjusting the speed of the output shaft relative to the input shaft, the resistance is either increased or decreased. In some instances, the input shaft may coincide with input shaft 51 depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2, as will be described hereinafter.

Shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B is a pair of split pulleys 100 coupled by a belt 102. Each split pulley 100 includes two pulley halves 101. Each pulley half 101 has a beveled interior surface 104 as best seen with reference to FIG. 8 illustrating a pulley half 101 in cross-section. The spacing 106 between pulley halves 101 may be adjusted by the user (e.g., through a knob mechanically coupled to one or both pulley halves). By moving the pulley halves 101 closer or farther apart, the effective diameter of the pulley 100 relative to the belt 102 is changed to alter the output speed of an output shaft 108. FIG. 7A illustrates a high output speed at output shaft 106 and thus more resistance felt at input shaft 51. FIG. 7B illustrates a low output speed at output shaft 106 and thus less resistance felt at input shat 51.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative mechanism for changing resistance. An input wheel 110 is in contact with an output disk 112. The location of the input wheel 110 relative to the output disk 112 may be altered by the user (e.g., by a knob mechanically coupled to the input wheel shaft 114). The radial location of the input wheel 110 relative to the output disk 112 establishes the speed with which the output disk 112 rotates. In other words, as input wheel 110 is translated from a center portion to a peripheral portion defining output disc 112, input wheel 110 and thus input wheel shaft 114 rotate faster. Furthermore, there is less resistance felt by input wheel shaft 114 to rotate output disc 112 as input wheel 110 is translated from a center portion to a peripheral portion defining output disc 112.

FIG. 10 shows an alternative mechanism for changing resistance. An input wheel 120 is in contact with an output cone 122. The location of the input wheel 120 relative to the output cone 122 may be altered by the user (e.g., by a knob mechanically coupled to the input wheel shaft 124). The location of the input wheel 120 relative to the output cone 122 establishes the speed with which the output cone 122 rotates. In other words, as input wheel 120 is translated from a tip portion to a larger diameter base portion defining output cone 122, input wheel 120 and thus input wheel shaft 124 rotate faster. Furthermore, there is less resistance felt by input wheel shaft 124 to rotate output cone 122 as input wheel 120 is translated from the tip portion to the larger diameter base portion defining output cone 122.

FIGS. 11 and 12 depict alternative mechanisms for changing resistance. Counter rotating input wheels 130 are in contact with two output disks 132. The distance between the pair of input wheels 130 may be altered by the user (e.g., by a knob mechanically coupled to one or both output disks). As the pair of input wheels 130 are brought closer together, friction on the output disks 132 increases because of the parabolic configuration on facing surfaces of the output dicks 132, thereby reducing speed of the output disks 132 and increasing a resistance felt by an input shaft (not shown) operably connected to the input wheels 130.

FIGS. 13 and 14 depict an alternative mechanism for changing resistance. An input shaft 140 is connected to a driving cone 142. The driving cone 142 contacts an output disk 144 coupled to an output shaft 146. The location of the input shaft 140 relative to the output shaft 146 may be altered by the user (e.g., by a knob mechanically coupled to one or both of the input shaft and output shaft). The location of the input shaft 140 relative to the output shaft 146 establishes the speed with which the output shaft 146 rotates. In FIG. 13, the input shaft 140 and output shaft 146 are substantially aligned resulting in a higher output speed and less resistance felt by input shaft 140 as more driving cone 142 is in contact with the output disk 144. In FIG. 14, the input shaft 140 is displaced from the output shaft 146 resulting in a lower output shaft speed and higher resistance felt at input shaft 140.

Although numerous variable resistance mechanisms have been described with reference to FIGS. 6-14 to provide a variable resistance on input shaft 51 felt by a user, any number of variable resistance mechanisms known in the art are contemplated for use suitable to the desired end purpose. In any selected variable resistance mechanism, such mechanism should not interfere with selection and operation of the aquatic exercise cycle in the upright or recumbent riding positions. Furthermore, such a selected mechanism should allow easy disposal and positioning of the aquatic exercise cycle within the liquid medium such as a swimming pool, for example, while remaining stable during operation thereof and without having to attach the cycle to swimming pool structure.

One of the advantages obtained by using above described aquatic exercise cycle is discussed below. Amateur tri-athletes, like professionals will train from about 15 hours per week up to about 30 hours per week in an effort to maximize their performance in each of the three triathlon disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running. Three of the key factors that comprise a successful training program for this type of event are the hours of quality effort invested, the maximum recovery benefit obtained between training sessions, and remaining injury-free during the training program.

One alternative course of training which can achieve all three of the above includes cross-training with aquatic exercise equipment, including the above described aquatic exercise cycle. For instance, using a high quality, non-motorized aquatic treadmill and an aquatic exercise cycle in a small pool with a tethered or mechanical swim resistance device will greatly reduce the amount of time required to produce the same benefit from land-based training.

Very few athletes are able to devote equal training time to each discipline because they are stronger in one or two than the third, and need to devote additional time to that third or weaker area. However, devoting additional time to the weaker discipline takes valuable hours away from the other disciplines, which can then suffer.

One solution includes aquatic training because training in water produces 12 times more resistance than training in air(i.e., on land) and the time required to achieve equal benefit is greatly reduced. Simultaneously, the buoyancy obtained by training in water greatly reduces stress and impact on joints, bones, and muscles. This benefit not only reduces the likelihood of injury, but also reduces the recovery time required between training sessions. In addition, subsequent training sessions are of higher quality because the lingering fatigue factor and discomfort level caused by previous sessions is greatly reduced.

Thus, using the above described aquatic exercise cycle in a liquid medium that allows selection between a classical upright and recumbent riding position can aid in triathlon training, at least with respect to training for a bicycling aspect thereof.

While this invention has been described with reference to a preferred embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the invention. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the invention without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the invention not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this invention.

Claims

1. An aquatic exercise cycle comprising:

a frame receptive to be at least partially submersed in a liquid medium;

a seat adjustably secured to said frame;

a pair of handles operably coupled to at least one of said frame and said seat for an operator to hold onto;

a crank assembly operably coupled to said frame, said crank assembly having an input shaft rotatable with a pair of user operated pedals; and

a variable resistance mechanism in operable communication with said input shaft, said variable resistance mechanism receptive to varying a resistance of rotation of said input shaft,

wherein at least said seat is adjustable relative to said crank assembly to select either an upright riding position or a recumbent riding position.

2. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said seat and said crank assembly are adjustable relative to said frame to select either an upright riding position or a recumbent riding position.

3. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said seat is receptive to translation substantially parallel with a portion defining a length of said frame and substantially normal to said frame.

4. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 3, wherein said seat depends from a height adjustable seat post, said seat post selectively coupled along a length defining said frame depending on a selected riding position.

5. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 3, wherein said crank assembly is pivotally attached to said frame at a first location and a second location, said crank assembly is attached to said first location using a first support having a first end pivotally extending from said crank assembly and an opposite second end realeasably coupled along a length of said frame at said first location depending on a selected riding position.

6. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 5, wherein said second end of said first support is translatable within a first slot extending along a length of said frame and is realeasably secured therealong.

7. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 6, wherein said crank assembly is pivotally attached to said frame at said second location using a second support having a first end pivotally extending from said crank assembly and an opposite second end pivotally coupled to said frame at said second location.

8. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 6, wherein said seat depends from a height adjustable seat post, said seat post selectively coupled along a length of said frame depending on a selected riding position.

9. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 8, wherein said seat post is translatable within a second slot aft of said first slot extending along a length of said frame and is realeasably secured therealong.

10. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 9, wherein said second end of said first support and said seat post are fixedly secured with respect to translation within said first and second slots, respectively, using corresponding mechanical fasteners to prevent further translation therein.

11. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said a variable resistance mechanism is incorporated with said crank assembly.

12. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said pair of handles operably coupled to at least one of said frame and said seat for an operator to hold onto include a first pair of handles operably coupled to said frame for said upright position and a second pair of handles operably coupled to said seat for said recumbent position.

13. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 12, wherein said second pair of handles are receptive to being moved out of the way for operation in said upright position.

14. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said frame is a single tube frame configured in an arch with feet depending from opposing ends defining said frame to stabilize said frame in said liquid medium.

15. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said variable resistance mechanism includes a first gear in operable communication with a second gear operably coupled to an output shaft, said first gear having first teeth engaged with second teeth of said second gear in said liquid medium, wherein said variable resistance mechanism is receptive to varying a resistance of rotation of said output shaft to vary a resistance of rotation of said input shaft.

16. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 15, wherein said variable resistance mechanism includes first and second gears rotatably fixed within a liquid filled chamber, said chamber including an inlet intermediate axes of rotation of said first and second gears and an outlet opposite said inlet intermediate axes of rotation of said first and second gears, said liquid filled chamber includes said liquid medium in which the exercise bicycle is immersed.

17. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 16, wherein rotation of said first and second gears pumps liquid into said chamber through said inlet and exit said chamber through said outlet.

18. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 17, wherein said outlet includes an adjustable restrictor plate, said restrictor plate is receptive to moving into and out of said outlet varying a resistance of rotation of said first and second gears.

19. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said variable resistance mechanism includes first and second gears rotatably fixed within a self contained liquid filled chamber, said chamber being a closed fluid system having suitably configured reservoirs to vary the resistance of liquid pumped by first teeth and second teeth of said first and second gears, respectively.

20. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 17, wherein said first gear is operably coupled to said input shaft.

21. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 16, wherein said variable resistance mechanism includes said output shaft variably geared with respect to said input shaft such that adjustment of a relative speed of said output shaft relative to said input shaft varies a resistance of rotation of said input shaft dependent on a change of relative speeds of said output and input shafts.

22. The aquatic exercise cycle of claim 1, wherein said liquid medium includes a swimming pool in which at least a substantial portion of the exercise cycle is immersed in water when in operation.