Exercise Device With Adjustable Console

Abstract

In general, the present invention relates to exercise devices. In particular the present invention relates to exercise devices having a selectively adjustable console. The console of an exercise device may selectively adjust in a number of different ways according to the present invention. For example, the height of a console relative to a portion of the exercise device frame may selectively adjust up or down. Alternatively, the tilt of the console, or a portion of the console such as the display screen, may selectively adjust relative to a portion of the exercise device frame. For example, the angular orientation of a console or a display screen relative to a portion of the exercise device frame.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61/584,648 filed Jan. 9, 2012.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to exercise devices. In particular the present invention relates to exercise devices having selectively adjustable consoles.

BACKGROUND

Exercise devices have long been a mainstay of the home and institutional exercise equipment market. One advantage of exercise devices is that they can be used when inclement weather prevents outdoor exercise. Exercise devices typically utilize a console to allow a user to view exercise program information and input or select different exercise programs and/or features. Such consoles typically allow a user some degree of interactivity and tailoring of device features including but not limited to speed, incline, and resistance.

The height and angular orientation or tilt of an exercise device console or a portion of an exercise device console is typically set to a position that accommodates most users. However, this pre-set orientation not be optimal for all of the users that utilize the exercise device. For example, individuals that are tall or short may find it difficult to manipulate the controls and/or view the display screen on a console. In addition, adjustments made to the exercise device may cause the orientation of the console to become inconvenient. For example, if the exercise device has an incline mechanism, inclination of the exercise device may make reaching or viewing the console difficult.

Examples of various adjustable exercise devices are described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,708,337, U.S. Pat. No. 4,976,424, U.S. Pat. No. 6,135,924, and U.S. Pat. No. 7,344,481.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In one aspect of the disclosure, an exercise device includes a frame.

In another aspect that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device has a console that is movably attached to the frame and that has at least one display screen.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the height of the console can be selectively adjusted relative to at least one portion of the frame;

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the angular orientation of the at least one display screen can be selectively adjusted relative to the at least one portion of the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a first adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the console relative to the at least one portion of the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, a second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen relative to the at least one portion the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the first adjustment mechanism comprises a telescoping member and a screw gear.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the screw gear is at least partially enclosed within the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console includes at least one of an arm support and a handlebar and the first adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the at least one of an arm support and a handlebar together with the height of the console.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console comprises a memory that stores at least one exercise program and wherein the first adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the console automatically based upon the exercise program.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console further comprises one or more user input controls and wherein the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen independently of the one or more user input controls.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console further comprises one or more user input controls and wherein the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the one or more user input controls together with the at least one display screen.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console includes at least one of an arm support and a handlebar and the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one of an arm support and a handlebar together with the one or more user input controls and the at least one display screen.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console further comprises a memory that stores at least one exercise program and the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the console automatically based upon the exercise program.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device is a treadmill that further comprises a frame that includes a base structure and an upright structure, wherein the base structure is moveably attached to the upright structure and an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the position of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the position of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device is an elliptical machine that further comprises a frame that includes a pedal support structure and an upright structure, wherein the pedal support structure is moveably attached to the upright structure and an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device is an exercise bike that further comprises a frame that includes a first frame portion and second frame portion, wherein the second frame portion is moveably attached to the first frame portion and an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device includes a frame comprising a first frame portion that is movably connected to a second frame portion, wherein the orientation of the first frame portion can be selectively adjusted within a limited range relative to the second frame portion.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device includes a console that is movably attached to the frame, and the height of the console can be selectively adjusted relative to the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device includes a telescoping height adjustment mechanism that automatically adjusts the height of the console relative to the frame based upon the orientation of the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device includes one or more arm supports, wherein the telescoping height adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the one or more arm supports together with the height of the console.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the exercise device includes a console tilt mechanism that selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the console relative to the frame.

In another aspect of the invention that may be combined with any of the aspects herein, the console tilt mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation the orientation of the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a first exercise device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the first exercise device showing components of a telescoping height adjustment mechanism.

FIG. 3A illustrates a side view of the first exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism and a telescoping height adjustment mechanism in different configurations.

FIG. 3B illustrates a side view of the first exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism and a telescoping height adjustment mechanism in additional different configurations.

FIG. 4A illustrates a side view of the first exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 4B illustrates a side view of the first exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two additional different configurations.

FIG. 5 illustrates a side view of the first exercise device having a display screen tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a second exercise device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7A illustrates a side view of the second exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism and a telescoping height adjustment mechanism in different configurations.

FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the second exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism and a telescoping height adjustment mechanism in additional different configurations.

FIG. 8A illustrates a side view of the second exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 8B illustrates a side view of the second exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two additional different configurations.

FIG. 9 illustrates a side view of the second exercise device having a display screen tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a third exercise device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11A illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 11B illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having an incline adjustment mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having a telescoping height adjustment mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 13A illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 13B illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having a console tilt mechanism in two different configurations.

FIG. 14 illustrates a side view of the third exercise device having a display screen tilt mechanism in three different configurations.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an exercise device 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Exercise device 100 is illustrated as a treadmill. Exercise device 100 includes a frame 102. A frame, according to the present invention, can be any part of an exercise device that imparts structural support and/or stability to one or more parts of an exercise device and can comprise any number of different frame portions. In exercise device 100, frame 102 comprises a first frame portion 104 and a second frame portion 106. First frame portion 104 includes a base structure and second frame portion 106 includes an upright structure. First frame portion 104 is movably attached to second frame portion 106. First frame portion 104 supports, among other things, a belt 108, which rotates during performance of an exercise on exercise device 100. Second frame portion 106 supports a console 112 among other things.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, console 112 includes an optional fan 113, user input controls 114, a display screen 116, a pair of optional arm supports 110, and optional handlebars 111. In other embodiments of the present invention, a console may include additional or fewer components than those included in console 112. User input controls 114, according to the present invention, may be used to input control commands or other data into exercise device 100. Specifically, user input controls 114 may be used to select a desired workout program, change the difficulty level of a selected workout, or input other data into exercise device 100. User input controls 114 may include one or more buttons, dials, knobs, switches, or other input mechanisms.

Display screen 116 may display data related to an exercise being performed on exercise device 100. For example, a graphical profile may show a difficulty level associated with a number of separate time or distance segments of a workout. Display screen 116 may also provide a first person view of a path to be travelled by a user during the course of his or her exercise program. Display screen 116 may further illustrate numerical data, such as the current difficulty level, speed, incline, number of calories burned by the user, or the user's heart rate. Display screen 116 may also display data that is unrelated to an exercise being performed. For example, display screen 116 may provide entertainment, such as television programming, movies, games, or the Internet. User input controls 114 may be used to control or select the data displayed on display screen 116.

Console 112 may also comprise electronics. These electronics may include a processor and other components that receive and process control commands or other data received through user input controls 114. These electronics may deliver signals reflective of the control command(s) to an actuator or another part of the exercise device. For example, if a command is received from user input control 114 to increase the speed of belt 108, the console electronics may process the command and deliver a signal to a belt motor on exercise device 100 that causes the speed of belt 108 to change. Electronics within console 112 may also include a memory that stores exercise programs or other data. Exercise programs may be a series of control commands that are executed by exercise device 100.

Exercise device 100 includes an incline adjustment mechanism 120. Incline adjustment mechanism 120 can be any mechanism that adjusts the orientation of first frame portion 104 relative to second frame portion 106. One of skill in the art will appreciate that incline adjustment mechanism 120 may adjust the orientation of first frame portion 104 relative to second frame portion 106 in a number of different ways. For example, the orientation of incline adjustment mechanism 120 may be adjusted manually. Alternatively, incline adjustment mechanism 120 may be at least partially motorized or otherwise mechanically assisted. For example, incline adjustment mechanism 120, may include a motor with one or more linearly extending members or another drive mechanism that comprises a motor, a pump, a chain drive, a belt drive, a screw drive, a drive shaft, a gear drive, rack and pinion assembly, and/or any other suitable devices configured to individually or jointly adjust the orientation of first frame portion 104 relative to second frame portion 106.

Exercise device 100 also includes a telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140. Telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 can be any mechanism that adjusts the height of console 112 relative to at least one portion of frame 102. In exercise device 100, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 adjusts the height of console 112 relative to second frame portion 106. Telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 includes an extension member 142 that is moveably attached to second frame portion 106. One of skill in the art will appreciate that telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 may adjust the height of console 112 relative to second frame portion 106 in a number of different ways. For example, the orientation display telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 may be adjusted manually. Alternatively, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 may be at least partially motorized or otherwise mechanically assisted.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of exercise device 100 with a side portion of second frame portion 106 cut away so that the components of telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 can be viewed. As can be seen in FIG. 2, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 includes a screw drive, which comprises a motor 144, a screw 146, and a screw engaging bolt 148. Motor 144 is fixedly secured to a cavity within second frame portion 106. Motor 144 rotates screw 146 but does not allow screw 146 to translate relative to motor 144. Screw 146 includes threads on its outer surface. Screw engaging bolt 148, which is fixedly secured to a cavity within extension member 142, includes inner threads that mate with the outer threads on screw 146 such that as motor 144 rotates screw 146, screw engaging bolt 148 (and therefore extension member 142) translates up and down screw drive 146, depending on the rotational direction of screw 146.

Exercise device 100 further includes a console tilt mechanism 160. Console tilt mechanism 160 adjusts the angular orientation of console 112 about an axis 162. One of skill in the art will appreciate that console tilt mechanism 160 may function in a number of different ways. For example, the orientation console tilt mechanism 160 may be adjusted manually. Alternatively, console tilt mechanism 160 may be at least partially motorized or otherwise mechanically assisted. Console tilt mechanism 160, may include a drive mechanism that comprises a motor, a pump, a chain drive, a belt drive, a screw drive, a drive shaft, a gear drive, rack and pinion assembly, and/or any other suitable devices configured to individually or jointly adjust the angular orientation of console 112 about axis 162.

Exercise device 100 includes a display screen tilt mechanism 180. Display screen tilt mechanism 180 can be any mechanism that adjusts the angular orientation of display screen 116 independently of at least one other component that is part of console 112. For example, display screen tilt mechanism 180 may adjust the angular orientation of display screen 116 independently of one or more of fan 113, user input controls 114, arm supports 110, and handlebars 111. One of skill in the art will appreciate that display screen tilt mechanism 180 may adjust the angular orientation of display screen 180 in a number of different ways. For example, the orientation display screen tilt mechanism 180 may be adjusted manually. Alternatively, display screen tilt mechanism 180 may be at least partially motorized or otherwise mechanically assisted. Display screen tilt mechanism 180 may include a drive mechanism that comprises a motor, a pump, a chain drive, a belt drive, a screw drive, a drive shaft, a gear drive, rack and pinion assembly, and/or any other suitable devices configured to individually or jointly adjust the angular orientation of display screen 116 independently of at least one other component that is part of console 112.

Incline adjustment mechanism 120, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, console tilt mechanism 160, and display screen tilt mechanism 180 may change orientation based upon the position of another adjustment mechanism on exercise device 100. For example, incline adjustment mechanism 120 may automatically adjust based upon the configuration of telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, console tilt mechanism 160, or display screen tilt mechanism 180. Telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 may automatically adjust based upon the configuration of incline adjustment mechanism 120, console tilt mechanism 160, or display screen tilt mechanism 180. Console tilt mechanism 160 may automatically adjust based upon the configuration of incline adjustment mechanism 120, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, or display screen console tilt mechanism 180. Display screen tilt mechanism 180 may automatically adjust based upon the configuration of incline adjustment mechanism 120, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, or console tilt mechanism 160.

FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate a side view of exercise device 100 where telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 automatically adjusts based upon the configuration of incline adjustment mechanism 120. In FIG. 3A, incline adjustment mechanism 120 is configured so that first frame portion 104 is in two different positions relative to second frame portion 106. In the first position 122, incline adjustment mechanism 120 is adjusted so that first frame portion 104 is in a horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. First position 122 simulates a generally level surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100. In other words, in the first position 122, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100 may feel that he or she is on a generally level surface.

In the second position 124, incline adjustment mechanism 120 is adjusted so that first frame portion 104 is in an inclined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 124 simulates a generally inclined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100. In other words, in the second position 124, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100 may feel that he or she is on a generally uphill or inclined surface.

FIG. 3A also shows telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 configured so that the height of console 112 relative to second frame portion 106 is in two different positions. In the first position 150, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 is adjusted so that console 112 is at a first height, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 152, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 is adjusted so that console 112 is at a second height, which is shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 112 is lower in the first position 150 and higher in the second position 152.

FIG. 3B illustrates exercise device 100 with incline adjustment mechanism 120 configured so that first frame portion 104 is in two different positions relative to second frame portion 106. In the first position 122, first frame portion 104 is again in the horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 126, incline adjustment mechanism 120 is adjusted so that first frame portion 104 is in a declined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 126 simulates a generally declined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100. In other words, in the second position 126, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 100 may feel that he or she is on a generally downhill or declined surface.

FIG. 3B also shows telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 configured so that the height of console 112 relative to second frame portion 106 is in two different positions. In the first position 154, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 is adjusted so that console 112 is at a first height, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 156, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 is adjusted so that console 112 is at a second height, which is shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 112 is higher in the first position 154 and lower in the second position 156.

Exercise device 100 is configured so that as incline adjustment mechanism 120 adjusts first frame portion 104 from first position 122 to second position 124 in FIG. 3A, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 automatically adjusts console 112 from first position 150 to second position 152. Similarly, as incline adjustment mechanism 120 adjusts first frame portion 104 from first position 122 to second position 124 in FIG. 3B, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 automatically adjusts console 112 from first position 150 to second position 152.

In alternative configurations, exercise device 100 could be configured so that as telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 adjusts console 112 from first position 150 to second position 152 in FIG. 3A, incline adjustment mechanism 120 may automatically adjust first frame portion 104 from first position 122 to second position 124. Similarly, as telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140 adjusts console 112 from first position 150 to second position 152 in FIG. 3B, incline adjustment mechanism 120 may automatically adjust first frame portion 104 from first position 122 to second position 124.

In addition to adjustments that automatically occur based on the position of another adjustment mechanism, one or more user input controls or another manual mechanism may be used to adjust incline adjustment mechanism 120, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, console tilt mechanism 160, and/or display screen tilt mechanism 180. Alternatively, a control command from an exercise program or an adjustment made to exercise device 100 may prompt incline adjustment mechanism 120, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 140, console tilt mechanism 160, and/or display screen tilt mechanism 180 to adjust automatically. An adjustment to exercise device 100 may include a change in speed, a change resistance, or a change to another selectively adjustable component of exercise device 100.

FIG. 4A illustrates exercise device 100 with console tilt mechanism 160 configured so that console 112 is in two different exemplary angular positions relative to extension member 142. In a first position 164, console tilt mechanism 160 is adjusted so that console 112 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 166, console tilt mechanism 160 is adjusted so that console 112 has rotated about axis 162 and is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 112 is at a more vertical orientation in the second position 166 than in the first position 164.

FIG. 4B also illustrates exercise device 100 with console tilt mechanism 160 configured so that console 112 is in two different exemplary angular positions relative to extension member 142. In the first position 168, console tilt mechanism 160 is adjusted so that console 112 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 170, console tilt mechanism 160 is adjusted so that console 112 has rotated about axis 162 and is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 112 is at a more horizontal orientation in the second position 170 than in the first position 168.

FIG. 5 illustrates exercise device 100 with display screen tilt mechanism 180 configured so that display screen 116 is in two different exemplary angular positions. In the first position 182, display screen tilt mechanism 180 is adjusted so that display screen 116 is tilted back, as shown in solid lines. In the second position 184, display screen tilt mechanism 180 is adjusted so that display screen 116 is tilted forward, as shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, display screen 116 is at a more vertical orientation in the second position 184 than in the first position 182. Display screen tilt mechanism 180 adjusts the angular orientation of display screen 116 independently of other components that are part of console 112 including fan 113, user input controls 114, arm supports 110, and handlebars 111.

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a second exercise device 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention. Exercise device 200 is illustrated as an elliptical machine and includes a frame 202, which comprises a first frame portion 204 and a second frame portion 206. First frame portion 204 includes a pedal support structure and second frame portion 206 includes an upright structure. First frame portion 204 is movably attached to second frame portion 206. First frame portion 204 supports a pair of pedals 208 that reciprocate in an elliptical path during performance of an exercise on exercise device 200. Second frame portion 206 supports a pair of reciprocating arm supports 212 and a console 214. Console 214 comprises a pair of stationary arm supports 210, a fan 215, user input controls 216, a display screen 218, and electronics. User input controls 216 may be used to input control commands or other data into exercise device 200. Display screen 218 may display data that is related or unrelated to an exercise being performed on exercise device 200.

Exercise device 200 includes an incline adjustment mechanism 220. Incline adjustment mechanism 220 adjusts the orientation of first frame portion 204 relative to second frame portion 206. Exercise device 200 also includes a telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240. Telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 includes an extension member 242 and adjusts the height of console 214 relative to frame 202. Exercise device 200 further includes a console tilt mechanism 260. Console tilt mechanism 260 adjusts the angular orientation of console 214, including the user input controls 216 and the display screen 218, about an axis 262 and relative to extension member 242. In addition, exercise device 200 includes a display screen tilt mechanism 280. Display screen tilt mechanism 280 adjusts the angular orientation of display screen 218 independently of at least one other component that is part of console 214.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate exercise device 200 where telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 automatically adjusts with incline adjustment mechanism 220. In FIG. 7A, incline adjustment mechanism 220 is configured so that first frame portion 204 is in two different positions relative to second frame portion 206. In the first position 224, incline adjustment mechanism 220 is adjusted so that first frame portion 204 is in a horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. First position 224 simulates a generally level surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200. In other words, in the first position 224, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200 may feel that he or she is on a generally level surface.

In the second position 226, incline adjustment mechanism 220 is adjusted so that first frame portion 204 is in an inclined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 226 simulates a generally inclined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200. In other words, in the second position 226, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200 may feel that he or she is on a generally uphill or inclined surface.

FIG. 7A also shows telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 configured so that the height of console 214 relative to second frame portion 206 is in two different positions. In the first position 244, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 is adjusted so that console 214 is at a first height, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 246, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 is adjusted so that console 214 is at a second height, which is shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 214 is lower in the first position 244 and higher in the second position 246.

FIG. 7B illustrates exercise device 200 with incline adjustment mechanism 220 configured so that first frame portion 204 is in two different positions relative to second frame portion 206. In the first position 224, first frame portion 204 is again in the horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 228, incline adjustment mechanism 220 is adjusted so that first frame portion 204 is in a declined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 228 simulates a generally declined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200. In other words, in the second position 228, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 200 may feel that he or she is on a generally downhill or declined surface.

FIG. 7B also shows telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 configured so that the height of console 214 relative to second frame portion 206 is in two different positions. In the first position 248, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 is adjusted so that console 214 is at a first height, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 250, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 is adjusted so that console 214 is at a second height, which is shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 214 is higher in the first position 248 and lower in the second position 250.

Exercise device 200 is configured so that as incline adjustment mechanism 220 adjusts first frame portion 204 from first position 224 to second position 226 in FIG. 3A, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 may automatically adjust console 214 from first position 244 to second position 246. Similarly, as incline adjustment mechanism 220 adjusts first frame portion 204 from first position 224 to second position 228 in FIG. 3B, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240 may automatically adjust console 214 from first position 248 to second position 250.

In addition to adjustments that automatically occur based on the position of another adjustment mechanism, one or more user input controls or another manual mechanism may be used to adjust incline adjustment mechanism 220, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240, console tilt mechanism 260, and/or display screen tilt mechanism 280. Alternatively, a control command from an exercise program or an adjustment made to exercise device 200 may prompt incline adjustment mechanism 220, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 240, console tilt mechanism 260, and/or display screen tilt mechanism 280 to adjust automatically. An adjustment to exercise device 200 may include a change in speed, a change resistance, or a change to another selectively adjustable component of exercise device 200.

FIG. 8A illustrates exercise device 200 with console tilt mechanism 260 configured so that console 214 is in two different exemplary angular positions relative to extension member 242. In the first position 264, console tilt mechanism 260 is adjusted so that console 214 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 266, console tilt mechanism 260 is adjusted so that console 214 is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 214 is at a more vertical orientation in the second position 266 than in the first position 264.

FIG. 8B also illustrates exercise device 200 with console tilt mechanism 260 configured so that console 214 is in two different angular positions relative to extension member 242. In the first position 268, console tilt mechanism 260 is adjusted so that console 214 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 270, console tilt mechanism 260 is adjusted so that console 214 is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 214 is at a more vertical orientation in the first position 268 than in the second position 270.

FIG. 9 illustrates exercise device 200 with display screen tilt mechanism 280 configured so that display screen 218 is in two different positions. In the first position 282, display screen tilt mechanism 280 is adjusted so that display screen 218 is tilted back, as shown in solid lines. In the second position 284, display screen tilt mechanism 280 is adjusted so that display screen 218 is tilted forward, as shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, display screen 218 is at a more vertical orientation in the second position 284 than in the first position 282.

FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a third exercise device 300 according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Exercise device 300 is illustrated as a stationary exercise bike. Exercise device 300 includes a frame 302, which comprises a first frame portion 304 and a second frame portion 306. Second frame portion 306 is movably attached to first frame portion 304. First frame portion 304 provides exercise device 300 with a base structure that rests on a support surface. Second frame portion 306 supports pedals 308 and a console 312. Console 312 comprises handlebars 310, user input controls 314 and a display screen 316. User input controls 314 may be used to input control commands or other data into exercise device 300. Display screen 316 may display data that is related or unrelated to an exercise being performed on exercise device 300.

Exercise device 300 includes an incline adjustment mechanism 320. Incline adjustment mechanism 320 adjusts the orientation of the second frame portion 306 relative to the first frame portion 304. Exercise device 300 also includes a telescoping height adjustment mechanism 340. Telescoping height adjustment mechanism 340 includes an extension member 342 and adjusts the height of console 312 relative to frame 302. Exercise device 300 further includes a console tilt mechanism 360. Console tilt mechanism 360 adjusts the angular orientation of console 312, including the user input controls 314 and the display screen 316, about an axis 362. In addition, exercise device 300 includes a display screen tilt mechanism 380. Display screen tilt mechanism 380 adjusts the angular orientation of display screen 218 independently of at least one other component that is part of console 214.

FIG. 11A illustrates exercise device 300 with incline adjustment mechanism 320 configured so that second frame portion 306 is in two different positions relative to first frame portion 304. In the first position 322, incline adjustment mechanism 320 is adjusted so that second frame portion 306 is in a horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. First position 322 simulates a generally level surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300. In other words, in the first position 322, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300 may feel that he or she is on a generally level surface.

In the second position 324, incline adjustment mechanism 320 is adjusted so that second frame portion 306 is in an inclined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 324 simulates a generally inclined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300. In other words, in the second position 324, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300 may feel that he or she is on a generally uphill or inclined surface.

FIG. 11B also illustrates exercise device 100 with incline adjustment mechanism 320 configured so that second frame portion 306 is in two different positions relative to first frame portion 304. In the first position 322, second frame portion 306 is again in the horizontal orientation, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 326, incline adjustment mechanism 320 is adjusted so that second frame portion 306 is in a declined orientation, which is shown in phantom lines. Second position 326 simulates a generally declined surface for a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300. In other words, in the second position 326, a person performing an exercise on exercise device 300 may feel that he or she is on a generally downhill or declined surface.

FIG. 12 illustrates exercise device 300 with telescoping height adjustment mechanism 340 configured so that the height of console 312 relative to second frame portion 306 is in two different positions. In the first position 344, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 340 is adjusted so that console 312 is at a first height, which is shown in solid lines. In the second position 346, telescoping height adjustment mechanism 340 is adjusted so that console 312 is at a second height, which is shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, console 312 is lower in the first position 344 and higher in the second position 346.

FIG. 13A illustrates exercise device 300 with console tilt mechanism 360 adjusted so that console 312 is in two different angular positions about axis 362 and relative to extension member 342. In the first position 364, console tilt mechanism 360 is adjusted so that console 312 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 366, console tilt mechanism 160 is adjusted so that console 312 is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, display screen 316 of console 312 is at a more vertical orientation in the second position 366 than in the first position 364.

FIG. 13B also illustrates exercise device 300 with console 312 in two different angular positions about axis 362 and relative to extension member 342. In the first position 368, console tilt mechanism 360 is adjusted so that console 312 is in the configuration shown in solid lines. In the second position 370, console tilt mechanism 360 is adjusted so that console 312 is in the configuration shown in phantom lines. As can be seen, display screen 316 of console 312 is at a more vertical orientation in the first position 368 than in the second position 370.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

In general, the present invention relates to exercise devices. In particular the present invention relates to exercise devices having a selectively adjustable console. The console of an exercise device may selectively adjust in a number of different ways according to the present invention. For example, the height of a console relative to a portion of the exercise device frame may selectively adjust up or down. Alternatively, the tilt of the console, or a portion of the console such as the display screen, may selectively adjust relative to a portion of the exercise device frame. For example, the tilt of a console or a display screen may selectively adjust relative to a portion of the exercise device frame.

The selectively adjustable console may be adjusted automatically or manually. In one implementation, the height or angular orientation of the console may automatically adjust based upon user input received through user input controls that are part of the console. For example, the console may include buttons that increase the height of the console, the angular orientation of the console, or the angular orientation of a display screen independently of another component that is also part of the console.

An exercise device having a console that is adjustable in multiple different ways may accommodate a much wider variety of users. For example, individuals that are taller than an average person or shorter than an average person may be able to adjust the console in one or more different ways so that the user input controls are reachable and so that the display screen is in a position and at an angle that is optimal for viewing.

Any type of mechanism may be used to adjust the incline of one frame portion relative to another frame portion, or to adjust the height or tilt of a console or display screen. For example, a screw drive, a motor, a pump, a chain drive, a belt drive, a drive shaft, a gear drive, rack and pinion assembly, and/or any other suitable devices configured to individually or jointly adjust one or more of the foregoing.

These adjustment mechanisms may be located anywhere on an exercise device. For example, one or more of these components may be housed within a cavity within an exercise device frame. In other embodiments one or more of these components may be housed on the outside of an exercise device frame.

An exercise device console may have any number of display screens. For example, an exercise device console may have two separate display screens. An exercise device having two separate display screens may also have two separate display screen tilt mechanisms that adjust the angular configuration of each display screen independently of one another and independently of at least one other component of the console. Alternatively, a single display screen tilt mechanism may adjust the angular configuration of each display screen together and independently of at least one other component of the console.

An adjustment to the incline of one frame portion relative to another frame portion, or an adjustment to the height or angular orientation of a console or a display screen can be made automatically based upon another adjustment made to the exercise device. For example, an adjustment to the incline of one frame portion relative to another frame portion can be made automatically based upon an adjustment to the height or an adjustment to the angular orientation of a console or a display screen. An adjustment to the height of a console can be made automatically based upon an adjustment to the incline of one frame portion relative to another frame portion or an adjustment to the angular orientation of the console or a display screen. An adjustment to the angular orientation of a console or a display screen can be made automatically based upon an adjustment to the incline of one frame portion relative to another frame portion or an adjustment to the height of the console.

Claims

1. An exercise device comprising:

a frame;

a console movably attached to the frame and having at least one display screen, wherein the height of the console can be selectively adjusted relative to at least one portion of the frame and wherein the angular orientation of the at least one display screen can be selectively adjusted relative to the at least one portion of the frame;

a first adjustment mechanism that selectively adjusts the height of the console relative to the at least one portion of the frame; and

a second adjustment mechanism that selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen relative to the at least one portion the frame.

2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the first adjustment mechanism comprises a telescoping member and a screw gear.

3. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the screw gear is at least partially enclosed within the frame.

4. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the console includes at least one of an arm support and a handlebar and the first adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the at least one of an arm support and a handlebar together with the height of the console.

5. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the console comprises a memory that stores at least one exercise program and wherein the first adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the console automatically based upon the exercise program.

6. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the console further comprises one or more user input controls and wherein the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen independently of the one or more user input controls.

7. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the console further comprises one or more user input controls and wherein the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the one or more user input controls together with the at least one display screen.

8. The exercise device of claim 7, wherein the console includes at least one of an arm support and a handlebar and the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one of an arm support and a handlebar together with the one or more user input controls and the at least one display screen.

9. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the console further comprises a memory that stores at least one exercise program and wherein the second adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the console automatically based upon the exercise program.

10. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exercise device is a treadmill that further comprises:

a frame that includes a base structure and an upright structure, wherein the base structure is moveably attached to the upright structure; and

an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

11. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the position of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

12. The exercise device of claim 10, wherein the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the position of the base structure relative to the upright structure.

13. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exercise device is an elliptical machine that further comprises:

a frame that includes a pedal support structure and an upright structure, wherein the pedal support structure is moveably attached to the upright structure; and

an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

15. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the orientation of the pedal support structure relative to the upright structure.

16. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the exercise device is an exercise bike that further comprises:

a frame that includes a first frame portion and second frame portion, wherein the second frame portion is moveably attached to the first frame portion; and

an incline adjustment mechanism that adjusts the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

17. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the first adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

18. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the second adjustment mechanism automatically adjusts the angular orientation of the at least one display screen based upon the orientation of the second frame portion relative to the first frame portion.

19. An exercise device comprising:

a frame comprising a first frame portion that is movably connected to a second frame portion, wherein the orientation of the first frame portion can be selectively adjusted within a limited range relative to the second frame portion;

a console movably attached to the frame, wherein the height of the console can be selectively adjusted relative to the frame; and

a telescoping height adjustment mechanism that automatically adjusts the height of the console relative to the frame based upon the orientation of the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion.

20. The exercise device of claim 19 further comprising one or more arm supports, wherein the telescoping height adjustment mechanism selectively adjusts the height of the one or more arm supports together with the height of the console.

21. The exercise device of claim 19 further comprising a console tilt mechanism that selectively adjusts the angular orientation of the console relative to the frame.

22. The exercise device of claim 21, wherein the console tilt mechanism automatically adjusts the height of the console based upon the orientation of the first frame portion relative to the second frame portion.