WEARABLE EXERCISE APPARATUSES
An exercise apparatus includes a pair of apparatuses wearable on feet of a user. Each apparatus is configurable between expanded configurations and compressed configurations to simulate a selected motion when the user wearing the pair of apparatuses travels by foot. One of the apparatuses can move towards an expanded configuration while the other apparatus moves towards a compressed configuration.
This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/581,964, filed Apr. 28, 2017, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/001,529, filed Jan. 20, 2016, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/844,369, filed Mar. 15, 2013 (now U.S. Pat. No. 9,247,784), which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/663,493, entitled “WEARABLE EXERCISE APPARATUSES” and filed on Jun. 22, 2012, all of which are incorporated herein in their entireties by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELDThe present disclosure generally relates to exercise apparatuses and, more specifically, to wearable cardiovascular exercise footwear.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ARTExercise equipment for cardiovascular exercise is often used in gymnasiums or homes. It may be difficult or impossible to use stationary exercise equipment while performing other activities. For example, an individual using a treadmill or an elliptical machine may be unable to perform activities that require mobility, such as many household chores. This inconvenience may deter people with busy schedules from exercising. People also may not exercise because of the travel time to and from sport facilities, hiking trails, gymnasiums, or other workout facilities suitable for performing strenuous cardiovascular exercises that can strengthen and build muscles.
Activities (e.g., running, jogging, and walking) can be performed without utilizing stationary exercise equipment. Running and other high impact activities may be unsuitable for people with arthritis, damaged bones (e.g., bones with stress fractures), damaged joints, or damaged connective tissue. Running may also lead to injuries, tissue damage, and pain/discomfort. For example, chondromalacia patella (commonly referred to as runner's knee) is a condition that may be caused by running. To minimize trauma to joints or connective tissue, people often perform low impact activities; however, low impact activities, such as walking, often do not provide a desired level of aerobic activity and may be ineffective at strengthening or building muscles.
BRIEF SUMMARYExercise apparatuses disclosed herein can be used while performing various activities, such as walking, running, hiking, performing workout routines, or other normal everyday activities. The exercise apparatuses can be footwear worn on an individual's feet in order to provide a desired exercise program. The exercise program can be designed to simulate various types of motions, strengthen muscles, tone muscles, increase aerobic activity, control impact stresses, or the like. The exercise apparatuses, in some embodiments, simulate climbing (e.g., stairs, slopes) while the user walks on generally flat surfaces. The exercise apparatuses can be used while performing numerous types of everyday activities, including housework, gardening, or the like, without causing the trauma often associated with high impact activities. The exercise apparatuses can provide a strenuous workout without the trauma often associated with high impact activities.
In certain embodiments, a wearable exercise apparatus does not begin to compress until after the user has completed most or substantially all of the exercise that involves lifting the user's body up and onto a forward placed shoe. After the user's rearward foot with the rearward exercise apparatus has left the ground, the forward exercise apparatus can collapse. In some embodiments, the forward exercise apparatus begins to compress as soon as possible after the rearward exercise apparatus has left the ground. Consequently, the user can walk relatively fast and/or run as the exercise apparatuses are repeatedly opened and closed.
To reduce the amount of vertical work, the rearward shoe can be partially open to allow the rearward foot to be elevated as the user steps up and onto the forward placed foot. In other embodiments, the vertical work can be decreased by reducing the maximum expansion distance. The maximum expansion distance can thus be set to various levels to achieve different amounts of vertical work without changing the compressed configuration. Thus, the vertical work can be adjusted as desired.
In some embodiments, a pair of wearable exercise apparatuses is provided. Each exercise apparatus is configured to be worn on a foot and is movable between different configurations, such as open configurations and closed configurations. All or part of the wearable exercise apparatuses may move from open configurations to closed configurations based on the forces applied by the wearer, a timing sequence, the motion of the wearer's body, or combinations thereof. The wearable exercise apparatuses can have a collapsible sole, a collapsible heel, or other type of component that changes configurations to provide the desired actions. In certain embodiments, each exercise apparatus includes a collapsible heel with a step-up mechanism positioned generally underneath the user's heel. To facilitate natural body movements, the step-up mechanism can collapse as the user transfers his or her weight forward, for example, towards the ball of the foot. The exercise apparatuses may assume different configurations at different points during a gait, for example, when the heel is placed on the ground, when weight is transferred along the exercise apparatus, when the user pushes off of the ground, or the like.
In some embodiments, a footwear apparatus includes a mechanism that begins to compress after the user has lifted a significant portion of his or her body mass (e.g., all or most of his or her body mass) up and onto the mechanism. The mechanism begins to compress when the body moves forward, after a period of time, based on weight transfer or other body motion. In certain embodiments, the mechanism begins to compress after the user's other footwear apparatus has left the ground. The mechanism compresses to allow the user's body to descend. After the mechanism has partially or completely compressed, the user can put the other footwear apparatus on the ground. Once the footwear apparatus with the partially or completely compressed mechanism is moved away from the ground, the unloaded mechanism can return to an uncompressed configuration. The mechanism of the loaded footwear apparatus on the ground can collapse. The mechanisms can be repeatedly moved between a compressed configuration and an uncompressed configuration.
A pair of footwear apparatuses, in some embodiments, is used to walk at relatively high speeds to repeatedly lift the user's body to increase cardiovascular exercise. In certain embodiments, each apparatus moves to a fully collapsed position so that the user has to lift his or her body up and onto the extended footwear apparatus on the other foot. In some embodiments, a step-up mechanism of each footwear apparatus collapses at a generally constant rate. In other embodiments, the rate of collapse is proportional to the applied force. In some embodiments, the footwear apparatuses can be modified or adjusted to allow collapsing when the user's weight is positioned at a desired weight-bearing portion. The weight-bearing portion can be part of a sole, coupled to a sole, or otherwise integrated into the footwear apparatus. In certain embodiments, a weight-bearing portion may have an expanded configuration for keeping the user's foot elevated, even when the user stands on the weight-bearing portion. After the amount of mass supported by the weight-bearing portion decreases, the weight-bearing portion can collapse. For example, a weight-bearing portion may extend along the rear third to half of the length of the footwear apparatus. After the user transfers weight to another portion of the footwear apparatus, the weight-bearing portion can begin to collapse. As such, compression of the footwear apparatus is based on when the user's weight gets to an appropriate portion of the footwear apparatus.
Exercise apparatuses, in some embodiments, have one or more collapsible weight bearing portions, dampening portions, expansion portions, or the like. In certain embodiments, a weight-bearing portion is a section that supports most of the user's weight when this section is in an expanded configuration. Collapsible weight bearing portions may provide substantially no rebound or propelling force after supporting substantially all of the user's weight, after the exercise apparatus has collapsed (for example, after it has been collapsed for a desired length of time), in response to a user pushing off the ground (for example, pushing off of the ground using the dampening portion), combinations thereof, or the like. In certain embodiments, a collapsible weight-bearing portion is positioned at a rearward end of the apparatus. A dampening portion, in some embodiments, is positioned at a forward end of the apparatus. For example, a weight-bearing portion can support the user's heel, and a dampening portion can support the ball of the user's foot. Some embodiments have multiple collapsible weight-bearing portions. Straps, couplers, adhesives, or the like can couple the collapsible mechanisms to the footwear apparatus. In other embodiments, the collapsible mechanisms are monolithically formed with a component of the shoe or integrated into the footwear apparatus. In some embodiments, the mechanisms are permanently encapsulated in the sole of the shoe. In other embodiments, the collapsible weight bearing mechanisms are removable from the sole such that the step-up mechanisms can be replaced to provide different functionality.
Some embodiments include multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms. In some embodiments with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms, the height of a collapsible mechanism defines a height of a portion of an exercise apparatus. When an exercise apparatus is weighted, the height of a collapsible resistance mechanism determines the distance the user's foot is above the contact surface. In some exercise apparatuses with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms the resistive force of a rearward mechanism may be reduced to allow the mechanism to move towards the compressed configuration without any corresponding reduction in resistive force of other collapsible mechanism(s) on the same exercise apparatus. The resistive force of other collapsible mechanisms may or may not be reduced after the time at which the rearward mechanism begins to move towards a compressed configuration. In some embodiments the resistive force of a rearward collapsible mechanism may be reduced after the mechanism has supported the user's weight and the resistive force of a forward collapsible mechanism will be reduced later in the user's gait as the user's mass is substantially supported by the forward mechanism.
In some embodiments with collapsible resistance mechanisms located under or forward of the ball of the user's foot, the resistive force of a forward resistance mechanism is controlled in such a manner to absorb energy as the user steps from the current footwear apparatus to another exercise apparatus (for example, an exercise apparatus worn on the other foot of the user). The resistive force of the mechanism may be based in part on sensor data, a timing sequence, or information received from another footwear apparatus, user input, or other parameters. In some embodiments, the reduction of the resistive force of a forward collapsible mechanism may be initiated when a footwear apparatus worn on the other foot of the user is placed on the contact surface.
In some embodiments with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms, the resistance profile of the collapsible mechanisms may vary over time. The changes in resistance may be based on desired level of exercise, desired muscles to exercise, desired simulation (e.g. climbing stairs, climbing a slope, walking in sand or gravel, etc.), characteristics of the user such as their weight or characteristics of their gait, their walking speed, characteristics of the terrain on which the user is walking, or the like. Some exercise apparatuses with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms contain a controller which controls the resistance profiles of the collapsible mechanisms independently of each other. Some exercise apparatuses with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms have means for the user to input desired exercise characteristics which may affect how a controller sets the resistance profile of one or more collapsible resistance mechanisms.
In some embodiments, a footwear apparatus comprises a selectively collapsible weight-bearing heel, a central release portion, and a forward dampening portion. The dampening portion is configured to provide substantially no rebound or propelling force. The weight-bearing heel is configured to support the user's heel and to collapse based on at least one of relative applied forces, an absolute applied force, rates of change of applied forces, force distributions, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the dampening portion extends along most of or a substantial portion of the length of the shoe. In certain embodiments, the central release portion may at least partially overlap with the weight-bearing heel. The central release portion can cause the weight-bearing heel to assume different configurations. In some embodiments, the central release portion unlocks the weight-bearing heel.
In some embodiments, an exercise apparatus for increasing aerobic activity includes a collapsible step-up mechanism and a forward sole connected to a shoe main body. A step-up mechanism can be integrally formed with the sole. In other embodiments, a collapsible mechanism is detachably coupled to the sole. The sole can support the ball of the user's foot. Different step-up mechanisms can be used to provide different types of workouts. In certain embodiments, a step-up mechanism is positioned underneath the user's heel during use. For example, the sole can extend outwardly from one side of the step-up mechanism. In cantilevered embodiments, the sole can be coupled to a step-up mechanism in a cantilevered fashion. In some embodiments, a plurality of collapsible resistance mechanisms can be positioned at different locations along the length of the shoe. The collapsible mechanisms can be independently operated to provide different types of motion and may or may not provide propelling or rebound forces. The independent operation can be based on force relationships, pressure distributions, changes in pressure distributions, applied forces, changes in applied forces, or the like.
In some embodiments, a footwear apparatus for increasing aerobic activity comprises a shoe main body wearable on a foot of a user, a sole having a toe support region, and a collapsible resistance mechanism. The collapsible resistance mechanism is coupled to or integrated with the shoe main body. The collapsible resistance mechanism has an open configuration and a closed configuration and is self-expandable. The collapsible resistance mechanism, in some embodiments, is configured to support the user's body mass when in the open configuration and to move towards the closed configuration in response to a change in a pressure distribution applied by the user while substantially all or most of the user's body mass is supported by the collapsible resistance mechanism.
In other some embodiments, a footwear apparatus is wearable on a user's foot. The footwear apparatus has a raised configuration for supporting the user's body mass and a lowered configuration. The footwear apparatus moves from the raised configuration in response to forces applied by the user after the user has stepped up and onto the footwear apparatus.
In some embodiments, an exercise apparatus includes a controller capable of controlling a resistive force, the rate of compression, rate of expansion, timing (e.g., timing of compression, timing of expansion, time delays, or the like), step-up height versus applied forces relationship, automated adjustment of settings, or the like. In some embodiments, one or more sensors communicate with the controller to provide feedback. The controller can control any number collapsible resistance mechanisms based, at least in part, on the output from the sensor(s). The output can include position signals, acceleration signals, force signals, pressure data, combinations thereof, or the like.
The controller can be used to adjust operation of the exercise apparatus to provide a desired range of motion, to have a wearer reach a desired level of exercise, target specific muscles, simulate an activity (e.g. climbing steps, climbing a slope, hiking, walking on sand or gravel, etc.) or the like. The controller can communicate with other controllers (e.g., a controller of another exercise apparatus) or other devices or systems, including smart phones, diagnostic equipment, networks (including wireless networks), or the like. The sensors can be accelerometers, force sensors, pressure sensors, strain gauges, proximity sensors, or the like.
The exercise apparatus, in some embodiments, includes an expandable sole assembly that is adjustable to provide parallel movement, non-parallel movement, or both. The type of movement can be selected based on the targeted muscles, desired levels of exercise, or desired simulation. In certain embodiments, parallel expansion keeps the user's foot generally parallel to the ground as the exercise apparatus is compressed. In non-parallel compression/expansion modes of operation, the user's foot can be non-parallel (e.g., inclined, declined, or otherwise non-parallel) with respect to the ground. For some exercise routines, exercise apparatuses are switched between non-parallel and parallel modes of operation. In yet other embodiments, the exercise apparatus may be configured to provide parallel compression/expansion or non-parallel compression/expansion, but not both. The exercise apparatus, in some embodiments, can keep the user's foot at a desired angle and/or move the user's foot between different orientations, for example, to adjust for pronation or supination.
Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments are described with reference to the following drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts or acts throughout the various views unless otherwise specified.
The present detailed description is generally directed to exercise apparatuses that can provide different types of workout routines, exercises, and motions. The apparatuses can be used to simulate climbing steps, climbing up a slope, hiking, traversing uneven surfaces, walking on sand or gravel, and the like. Many specific details and certain exemplary embodiments are set forth in the following description and in
When a user steps up and onto the step-up mechanism 130, the step-up mechanism 130 supports the user's weight. The step-up mechanism 130 can move towards the closed configuration. Advantageously, the step-up mechanism 130 can unlock in response to applied forces (e.g., absolute forces, relative forces, force distributions, movements, etc.). To enhance cardiovascular exercise, the step-up mechanism 130 can begin to close after most or all of the user's body mass is supported by the step-up mechanism 130. In some embodiments, the step-up mechanism 130 can be in a locked configuration when a user lands heel-first on the ground. As the user transfers weight forwardly along the step-up mechanism 130, the step-up mechanism 130 can begin to collapse. The user can continue to apply weight to the step-up mechanism 130 so that the step-up mechanism 130 reaches a fully compressed configuration. To prevent locking of the step-up mechanism 130, the ball of the user's foot can land on the ground before the user's heel. This keeps the step-up mechanism 130 in the unlocked configuration. By selecting how forces are initially applied to the step-up mechanism 130, the user can control the configuration of the step-up mechanism 130.
To ensure that the user's body is raised a significant distance, a locking device 140 can lock a rearward portion 142 of the step-up mechanism 130. The locking device 140 includes a rearward linkage assembly 152 and a stop 182. When the user initially steps onto a support surface, the rearward portion 142 in the open configuration may be locked so as to bear significant forces, irrespective of the forces applied to the rearward portion 142 by a user. After the user stands on the step-up mechanism 130, the user's body weight can be transferred towards a forward portion 146 of the exercise apparatus 100. This can cause movement of a forward linkage assembly 150. As the linkage assembly 150 rotates, the locking device 140 unlocks and allows the rearward linkage assembly 152 to collapse. In this manner, the step-up mechanism 130 can be unlocked in response to the user's body movement.
Referring to
The dimensions and configuration of the step-up mechanism 130 can be selected based on the region of the user's foot that presses on the step-up mechanism 130. In certain embodiments, a longitudinal length L (shown in
An opener assembly 170 of
Referring to
A retainer 190 of the opener assembly 170 holds a rod 192. A biasing member 194 extends between the rod 192 and a rod 193 extending from the rearward linkage assembly 152. When the rod 193 moves forwardly as the step-up mechanism 130 collapses, the biasing member 194 is tensioned and provides a biasing force urging the rearward linkage assembly 152 back to its initial position. As such, the biasing member 194 can provide self-expansion. The biasing member 194 is shown removed in
Referring to
The exercise apparatus 100 can be worn on each foot of the user such that the user alternately steps up and onto the exercise apparatus 100. The user has to repeatedly raise his or her body, thereby increasing cardiovascular exercise. The step-up mechanism 130 can be adjustable to provide different types of workouts. The height of the step-up mechanism 130 can be increased or decreased by changing the initial positions of the linkage assemblies 150, 152. For example, the stop 182 can be moved rearwardly or forwardly to decrease or increase, respectively, the height of the step-up mechanism 130. Dampeners, shock absorbers, springs, or other components can be used to control the rate of the collapse and/or cushion the user's foot. The opener assembly 170, illustrated as a spring extending between linkage assemblies 150, 152, can be used to adjust the rate at which the step-up mechanism 130 opens.
Additionally or alternatively, the relative positions of the linkage assemblies 150, 152 of
Different forces can be used to control operation of the exercise apparatus 100. The first set of forces can allow the step-up mechanism 130 to begin to close. A second set of forces at a different point along the step-up mechanism 130 can speed up, slow down, or otherwise adjust the rate of closing and/or allow the remainder of the closing. To adjust the location of forces that cause closing of the step-up mechanism 130, a controller can control operation of the components of the exercise apparatus 100. One or more sensors positioned along the exercise apparatus 100 can provide feedback used by the controller to determine operation of the exercise apparatus 100.
The step-up mechanisms described herein can include dampening features. release mechanisms, or the like that cooperate to provide different types of functionality. In some embodiments, the exercise apparatus is reconfigurable to allow repositioning of any number of step-up mechanisms. For example, modular step-up mechanisms can be removably coupled to the sole 120. A user can reposition, remove, or replace the step-up mechanisms as desired.
The illustrated release mechanism 410 of
During use, when a user's weight is on a rearward portion 490 of the step-up mechanism 400 (shown in
As the user's body weight is moved forward, a forward end 492 of the plate 420 can pivot towards an upper member 494. The slider 450 and a slider 452 then move forward such that the step-up mechanism 400 moves to the closed configuration.
Of course, the configuration of the stop 514 and the slider 452 can be selected to achieve the desired amount of force needed to keep the release mechanism 510 in the unlocked position. A wide range of different types of stops and/or sliders with bearings, friction reducing surfaces, or the like can be used.
The controller 610 can be in communication with any number of components or sensors positioned at various locations along the exercise apparatus 600 and/or can be in communication with other devices, such as other exercise apparatuses, diagnostic devices or systems (e.g., diagnostic equipment used by trainers, physicians, or the like), computers, networks (including Wi-Fi networks or other type of wireless networks), or the like.
Referring to
Referring to
The sensors 650 can be force sensors, pressure sensors, strain gauges, proximity sensors, or other types of sensing elements capable of detecting a desired parameter and sending at least one signal indicative of the detected parameter.
The step-up mechanism 616 of
In certain embodiments, once a force relationship is established, the controller 610 initiates a time delay. After the time delay lapses, the step-up mechanism 616 begins to collapse. For example, when the user applies a significant amount of weight (e.g., more than 50%, 75%, or 90% of the user's body weight) to a forward end 627 of the step-up mechanism 616, the controller 610 can delay collapsing of the step-up mechanism 616 for a certain length of time (e.g., 0.2 second, 0.25 second, 0.5 second, 1 second, 2 seconds, etc.).
The step-up mechanism 616 can begin to collapse after a length of time measured from, for example, initial contact, certain weight transfer, or other selected event. In other embodiments, the controller 610 controls the rate of collapse of the step-up mechanism 616 independent of, or dependent on, the amount of weight applied by the user. The controller 610 can be used to collapse the step-up mechanism 616 at a constant rate, at a rate that varies with respect to the amount of applied force, or the like.
A processing system 611 (shown in dashed line) can contain a power supply, memory, and the controller 610. The power supply can be located inside the controller 610 or located externally and connected to the controller 610 via leads. The controller 610 can receive input from sensor leads connected to the sensors 650. In some embodiments, the processing system 611 contains a wireless transmit/receive device capable of sending and/or receiving data to/from other exercise apparatus(es), other external devices, a network, or the like. The controller 610 can control a step-up mechanism 616, resistance control device, or other component through a control output lead connected to the mechanism 616. In some embodiments, the controller 610 includes a user input/output lead used to interact with an input/output device (“I/O device”) to allow the user to set and monitor settings. These settings may include, without limitation, level of exercise, apparatus expansion parameters (e.g., maximum expansion height, minimum expansion height, etc.), exercise program selections, recalibration settings, combinations thereof, or the like. Exercise programs can include, without limitation, settings, routines, and preprogrammed levels of exercise. The levels of exercise can be selected based on targeted cardiovascular activity, targeted calories burned, targeted muscles, combinations thereof, or the like. By way of example, the user can select a program for burning a certain amount of calories over a certain length of time. Other programs can be used to target muscles for rehabilitation, strength training, or the like. When a user selects a desired program, the controller 610 can store the user's selection in memory and can periodically update or optimize stored programs or settings. Different types of optimization algorithms can be used to adjust programs, analyze data, compile reports, or otherwise evaluate user data (including preferences), exercise parameters, performance (including performance history), or the like. A display can display, for example, number of steps taken, distance traveled, vertical work performed, calories burned, and the like. For example, the controller 610 can include a display.
The sole plate 707 of
A traction element 712 of the sole plate 707 can be made, in whole or in part, of one or more polymers, rubber, elastomers, or other materials capable of providing sufficient traction. In multi-piece embodiments, the traction element 712 can include a hard plastic body coated with rubber. In one-piece embodiments, the traction element 712 can be made of a single material (e.g., plastic, rubber, elastomers, combinations thereof, or the like) made by a molding process (e.g., an injection molding process, compression molding process, etc.) or machining.
Referring again to
The resistance device 720 has a lower end 730 rotatably coupled to a sole plate mount 722. An upper end 732 of the resistance device 720 is rotatably coupled to a platform mount 724. The resistance device 720 controls the transition of the exercise apparatus 700 between different configurations, including the open configuration of
The resistance device 720 can include, without limitation, one or more shock absorbers, springs (e.g, gas springs, piston spring assemblies, etc.), dampening mechanisms (e.g., dampeners), solenoids, bladders (e.g., bladders filled with compressed gas and/or liquid), combinations thereof, or the like. Resistance device 720 may have function or implementation as devices described in
A restraining system 742 includes restraining elements 750, 752, illustrated as straps. An upper brace 760, illustrated as a lower leg brace, can provide ankle support and is rotatably coupled to a foot brace 762. When a user's ankle rotates, the upper brace 760 can rotate about a pivot 764. Alternative restraining systems can include, without limitation, one or more belts, laces, buckles, hook and loop type fasteners, or the like.
In operation, the sole plate 707 rotates about the pivot mechanism 706, as indicated by the arrow 770 of
The restraining system 820 includes a carriage 840 movable along a rail 842. The carriage 840 is fixedly coupled to an upper end 844 of the collapsible resistance mechanism 834. An intermediate portion 845 of the collapsible resistance mechanism 834 is fixedly coupled to the rail 842. In this manner, the collapsible resistance mechanism 834 is mounted to be aligned with the wearer's leg.
In some embodiments, the length Lo is selected such that the rearward end 918 is positioned generally under the user's heel when the sole plate 917 strikes the ground. When a user initially places the rearward end 918 on the ground, the center of the user's heel can be generally centered over the rearward end 918, as shown in
The illustrated sensors 966 are positioned along a support platform 968. However, sensors can be installed at a wide range of different locations, including in a resistance device, sole plate, restraining system, upper, or the like.
The controllers 1010 can communicate with one another through transmit/receive devices 1013a and 1013b. Selections made by the user through an I/O device I, illustrated as a key pad, can be transmitted using wireless communication. The function of the exercise apparatuses 1000 can be controlled based on user settings and sensor data obtained from both exercise apparatuses. The controller 1010 of each apparatus can transmit raw sensor data or results of computations to the alternate apparatus.
A user can use I/O devices to set, modify, and monitor settings for each exercise apparatus. The settings can include, without limitation, level of exercise, step height, and the like. In some models, the two exercise apparatuses may not communicate with one another. The function of each apparatus is based on settings the user selects through the I/O device and input from sensor(s) relayed to the controller via sensor lead(s). In some embodiments, the controllers 1010a, 1010b may not have transmit/receive devices.
Alternatively, the external controller 1043 can be a smartphone, iPod, Blue Tooth capable device, or other programmable device. The external controller 1043 can include an I/O device. The user can set, modify, and monitor settings using the I/O device. The external controller 1043 may be capable of displaying exercise results or programs. The program(s) can be updated wirelessly.
When a sole plate in the form of a swing arm 1128 is in the closed position, a ground contact component 1127 and a heel component 1130 can keep the user's foot generally level. As shown in
A resistance device 1119 is disposed between the linkage rotational axis 1114 and a resistance device coupler 1122. The resistance device 1119 can control movement of the linkage assembly 1104 and, thus, the transition of the exercise apparatus 1100 between the open, intermediate, and closed configurations. The resistance device coupler 1122 can be located at any suitable position to secure the resistance device 1119 to appropriate location(s) along the user support platform. When the linkage assembly 1104 is in the uncollapsed or open configuration, the orientations of the linkages 1110, 1112 are substantially vertical to reduce or limit the forces acting upon the resistance device 1119 to a fraction of the vertical forces acting upon the exercise apparatus 1100. This can enable the use of small and low-resistance devices despite the relatively high forces resulting from the user's mass acting on the apparatuses.
The flowable material 1300 can be a magnetorheological fluid, a ferrous fluid, or any other type of flowable material. Flowable materials can contain particles or other substances that can be affected by an externally applied field or force to alter the characteristics (e.g., viscosity) of the flowable material. In magnetically controlled embodiments, the flowable material 1300 carries metallic particles capable of being altered by an applied magnetic field produced by the internal electric coil 1200. The magnetic field causes alignment of the metallic particles, thus changing the viscosity of the flowable material 1300. By way of example, the viscosity can be increased to reduce the flow rate through the orifice 1301. This reduces the speed at which a head 1313 moves through a chamber 1315 of a housing 1317. This slows the rate of compression or expansion of the energy absorber 1402. To lock the energy absorber 1402, the strength of the magnetic field can be increased to increase the viscosity of the flowable material 1300. The flowable material 1300 is inhibited from flowing through the orifice 1301. This substantially prevents movement of the head 1313 to keep the energy absorber 1402 in a particular configuration. The magnetic field can be reduced or eliminated to allow the flowable material 1300 to flow freely through the orifice 1301. This allows rapid expansion and compression of the energy absorber 1402.
A sensor/controller system 1500 can use data received from sensors 1410a, 1410b to determine an appropriate amount of current to apply to the internal electric coil 1200. Current to the internal electric coil 1200 can be increased to a level that substantially locks the energy absorber 1402 while the user steps onto the exercise apparatus. The current can be turned off or reduced to allow the exercise apparatus to move towards the compressed configuration after the user has lifted a certain amount of weight, for example, substantially most of his or her weight. In some embodiments, the applied current is varied to have a non-uniform resistance profile. To prevent abrupt closing of an exercise apparatus, the applied current can be increased as the collapsible resistance mechanism approaches the fully closed configuration. For a rapid controlled collapsing, there is no applied current at the beginning of collapse. As the collapsible resistance mechanism approaches the closed configuration, a current can be applied to decrease the rate of collapse until the collapsible resistance mechanism is fully closed. To keep the collapsible resistance mechanism in the closed configuration to prevent propelling of the user, the magnetic field can be maintained to prevent movement of the head 1313. When a period of time has elapsed after the user has lifted the exercise apparatus off the ground, the magnetic field can be eliminated to allow the collapsible resistance mechanism. The energy absorber 1402 can allow the collapsible resistance mechanism to expand after the sole plate has moved away from the ground. By way of example, a sole plate of a collapsible resistance mechanism can swing to the fully opened position while the toe region of the support platform is on the ground. In other embodiments, the energy absorber 1402 can keep the collapsible resistance mechanism in the closed configuration for a period of time after the user lifts the exercise apparatus off the ground. In some embodiments, expansion of the energy absorber 1402 is restricted by maintaining a current to the internal electric coil 1200 for a period of time after the user lifts the exercise apparatus off the contact surface to minimize or eliminate a propelling force created by expansion of the energy absorber 1402.
A counteracting system (a sensor/controller system) can produce a magnetic field that counteracts the field so as to reduce the magnetic charge and therefore the viscosity of the flowable material 1300. Additionally or alternatively, magnets (e.g., electromagnets, permanent magnets, or the like) can be moved relative to the substance 1300 to adjust the substance's flow characteristics. An actuator device can move a magnet away from or towards the orifice 1301, the chamber 1315, or other portion of other regions proximate to the flowable material 1300.
Exercise apparatus 900 can include a sensor 966 located generally under the user's heel and communicatively coupled to a controller 990. To cause the collapsible resistance mechanism 904 to begin to compress, the controller 990 can direct a motor with a drive device to pull linkage 1119 forward. This can change the orientations of linkages 1110 and 1112 such that the forces on resistance device 916 are greater than the resistance it provides. This can allow the collapsible resistance mechanism 904 to collapse under the user's weight.
Controller 990 may initiate closing of the collapsible resistance mechanism 904 after a delay from the time it receives data from sensor 966 indicating the user has begun to step onto exercise apparatus 900. The controller 990 may store data received from the sensor and/or times the data was received for use in controlling operation of collapsible resistance mechanism 904. Controller 990 may use the duration of the intervals between times the user has stepped on the mechanism or other part of the exercise apparatus in determining the length of a delay from the time the user steps on the exercise apparatus until the time it directs a motor to initiate closing of collapsible resistance mechanism 904. To provide a comfortable experience or to create the desired level of exercise, the controller may choose longer delays when the user is walking at slower speeds and decrease the delay when the user is walking at faster speeds.
The expansion state of collapsible resistance mechanism 904 can be determined based on forces applied by the user on resistance device 916 and the resistance provided by device 916. When the resistance provided by resistance device 916 is greater than the forces applied to resistance device 916, distance D cannot be reduced. When the resistance of device 916 is less than the forces acting upon it, device 916 can compress, causing collapsible resistance mechanism 904 to move towards a compressed configuration. Resistance device 916 is capable of self-expanding when the exercise apparatus (and therefore resistance device 916) is unweighted.
The resistance provided by resistance device 916 can be varied by the operation of a component (e.g., an internal valve) which controls movement of a piston. For example, exterior operation of a valve can be accomplished by resistance control assembly 940, which includes components 930, 931, 932, and 933. Depressing lever arm 932 downward will move the valve towards the open configuration, thereby reducing the resistive force provided by mechanism 916. Motor 930 of resistance control assembly 940 includes a rotatable arm 933. Rotatable arm 933 is rotatably coupled to a linkage 931 that is rotatably coupled to lever arm 932. Therefore resistance of device 916 can be affected by the operation of motor 930.
Operation of resistance control assembly 940 can be controlled by controller 990 which is communicatively coupled to motor 930. Controller 990 can send signals to control motor 930 which will in turn control the position of the valve of resistance device 916, thereby controlling the resistance that device 916 provides. Resistance device 916 may or may not exert a propelling force as it expands.
Controller 990 is communicatively coupled to one or more sensors 966 capable of measuring one or more characteristics including but not limited to forces applied, spatial relationships, acceleration/deceleration, relationships or proximity to elements of exercise apparatus 900 or relationships or proximity to elements of other exercise apparatuses.
Controller 990 can allow the sole assembly to close by reducing the resistive force of resistance device 916 after the user completes the exercise involved in stepping completely onto exercise apparatus 900. In some embodiments or modes of operation, the controller 990 may vary the resistance of device 916 several times during a single gait. In one embodiment, the controller 990 may minimize resistance of device 916 after the user has stepped up and increase resistance of device 916 as the sole assembly nears its closed configuration. In one embodiment, the controller 990 may close the valve of resistance device 916 to prevent expansion of device 916 for a short period of time once the sole assembly has reached its closed configuration to prevent propelling forces to maximize exercise received by the user.
The controller 990 can be capable of receiving new exercise programs or modified exercise parameters (desired level of exercise, desired simulation, muscles to target, etc.) through a plug-in connection (e.g. USB) located on the controller or wirelessly. Other embodiments include input devices such as a keyboard, a keypad, LEDs, LCDs, touch screens, knobs, or buttons to allow the user to set operational parameters of the apparatus.
While
In embodiments with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms, one or more of the mechanisms (e.g., all of the mechanisms) may be independently controlled. The resistance profile of one collapsible resistance mechanism may be entirely different than the resistance profile of other collapsible mechanisms(s). The resistance profile of one collapsible mechanism may change over time while the resistance of one or more other collapsible mechanisms may remain constant over time. For instance, the resistance provided by a rearward collapsible mechanism may be reduced after the user has stepped onto the exercise apparatus while a forward collapsible resistance mechanism may provide a constant resistance throughout the user's gait (other than changes to the resistance due to changes in forces applied to the mechanism during the gait). The constant resistance may be selected based on the user's weight such that the forward collapsible mechanism can begin to compress once the user begins to transfer a substantial portion of their weight to a forward portion of the exercise apparatus. In other modes of operation, the resistance profile of a forward collapsible resistance mechanism may be reduced after a user transfers a substantial portion of their weight to a forward portion of the exercise apparatus. In other modes of operation, a resistance device may remain locked in an open or closed configuration.
Distinguishing exercise apparatus 900 of
Some collapsible resistance mechanisms of wearable exercise apparatuses include bladders, Reducing the resistance provided by a bladder while the bladder is supporting the user's weight can cause the resistance device to move towards the compressed configuration. In some embodiments, reducing the resistance provided by a collapsible resistance mechanism is accomplished by reducing the volume of the fluid in the bladder. Bladders may be filled with one or more fluids (e.g., a liquid, a gas, liquid/gas mixture, etc.), gels, or the like. In some embodiments, reducing the volume of fluid in a bladder is enabled by opening one or more valves.
The resistance profile of some bladders may change during the user's gait. For instance, the resistance of a bladder may be reduced after a period of time has elapsed after the bladder is supporting a portion of the user's weight. In this way the bladder will compress, lowering the user's center of gravity. In other cases, a bladder's level of resistance may remain constant throughout a user's gait. For example, in some modes of operation, a bladder located forward of the arch of the shoe may maintain a constant volume of fluid throughout a gait. The volume of fluid, in some embodiments or modes of operation, may change over time based on characteristics of the user (weight, stride length, etc.), characteristics of the user's gait (cadence, angle of foot at heel strike, angle of foot at toe off, etc.), or based on exercise programs or exercise variables (for instance level of desired exercise, muscles the user wants to target during exercise, desired simulation, etc).
Some exercise apparatuses employing bladders contain controllers capable of receiving data from one or more sensors and/or input from the user in determining the level of resistance provided by one or more bladders of the exercise apparatus. A controller may calibrate the behavior of the exercise apparatus by recording sensor data or using equations based on sensor data. Calibration adjustments may include increasing or decreasing volume in one or more bladders, increasing or decreasing flow capacity of a flow regulator, or by opening or closing a valve.
In some embodiments, a collapsible resistance mechanism in the form of a bladder provides variable resistance against the user's mass upon the bladder to control the user's center of gravity. In some embodiments or modes of operation the resistance can be selectively reduced by allowing the fluid in the bladder to escape to an auxiliary reservoir or secondary bladder. In some embodiments an auxiliary reservoir or secondary bladder has elastic properties such that when the resistance bladder is unweighted pressure in the auxiliary reservoir/secondary bladder is higher than that of the resistance bladder. The volume in the resistance bladder can be restored by this pressure difference via a one way valve or by keeping a controllable valve open until the bladder has been restored to the intended volume. When a compressible gas is used in a bladder, pressure in an auxiliary reservoir or secondary bladder will exceed the pressure in the resistance bladder regardless of whether the exterior chamber has elastic properties. If the auxiliary reservoir/secondary bladder is in communication with the resistance bladder when the resistance device is unweighted, gas will move back into the resistance bladder.
Return of fluid to bladder 901 can be accomplished by keeping the valve 902 open while the device is unweighted. Alternatively, a one way valve (e.g., a check valve, a duckbill valve, etc.) can be employed.
The forward collapsible resistance mechanism of exercise apparatus 900 of
Downward forces on collapsible resistance mechanism 301 are transferred through the linkages and joints towards central bladder assembly 500. The resistance provided by bladder assembly 500 therefore controls the resistance provided by collapsible resistance mechanism 301. With configurations that include relatively vertical orientations of linkage elements 303 and 304, the forces acting on bladder assembly can be a fraction of the downward forces on resistance device 301. Footwear bladders are often filled to 30 to 35 psi and vertical linkage orientations are capable of reducing forces on bladder assembly below 30 psi. Bladder assembly 500 contains a valve which allows fluid in the bladder to escape to an external reservoir, thereby allowing resistance device 301 to collapse, thereby lowering the user's center of gravity.
In some embodiments with multiple collapsible resistance mechanisms including resistance bladders, the bladders are in communication with each other subject to the flow rate of one or more valves disposed between the bladders.
In some modes of operation, for a period of time after the user's heel contacts the ground a valve's flow remains unchanged until the user has stepped completely onto the exercise apparatus. For instance a valve disposed between bladders 301 and 300 may remain closed for a period of time as the user steps onto the rear portion of exercise apparatus 900. When the valve's flow is increased, fluid may be forced from bladder 301 to 300. In some modes of operation, as the user transfers weight to the front of the footwear apparatus or as the user begins stepping off of the footwear apparatus, the controller can open a valve or increase flow of a valve to allow fluid in bladder 300 to be forced by the user's weight to bladder 301, thereby absorbing energy as the user steps off of the apparatus. The flow volume at various stages as the user travels on the exercise apparatuses may be determined by sensor data obtained over time and/or user inputs, Some bladders have internal sensing devices such as those described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,813,142 to Demon or others. The pressure in a bladder at various points of the user's gait or when the apparatus is unweighted may in part determine the timing of valve operation and/or how far a valve is opened at various points in time.
Resistance mechanism 1301 includes a linkage assembly 1306, which can transfer a substantial portion of the user's forces on the apparatus onto linear resistance device 1307. When the resistance generated by resistance device 1307 exceeds the linear forces acting upon resistance device 1307, distance D of
Variable linear resistance devices are capable of expanding when unweighted and can be referred to as “locking gas springs” or “lockable gas springs.” Exemplary locking gas springs are offered by Bansbach, LS Technologies, and Ameritool among other companies. Each of these products can contain a lever that controls the resistance of the device. For instance, the linear resistance device 1307 of
Other linear resistance devices with mechanical or electro-mechanical delay mechanisms can be used to delay collapse of the exercise apparatus for a period of time after the user steps onto or stands on the exercise apparatus 1300. For example, the linear resistance devices described in images 55-62 or linear resistance devices using delay systems as described in International Application No. PCT/US2009/032748 and U.S. application Ser. No. 12/865,695 (U.S. Pub. No. 2011/009233).
The exercise apparatus of
In other embodiments, the actuator is located internal to the linear resistance device. For instance, the actuator may be a solenoid valve, pressure switch, or coil cooperating with a ferrous material in the linear resistance device to change the viscosity of a fluid in the linear resistance device.
While one sensor is shown in
In some modes of operation, the controller uses sensor data from more than one step in determining the resistance profile of resistance device 1307 over time. In one mode of operation, the controller determines when to allow the exercise apparatus to begin compressing based at least in part on how fast the user is walking.
Referring to
To create vertical work as the user walks or steps onto exercise apparatus 1500, linear resistance device 1507 can contain a delay feature to prohibit compression of resistance device 1507 (which can restrict the reduction off the distance between upper sole 1502 and lower sole 1503) for a period of time after substantial forces act upon it. Linear resistance device 1507 can be substantially similar to common shock absorbers, gas springs, lockable gas springs, dampeners, to linear resistance devices described in
The connection between upper sole 1502 and lower sole 1503 is a living hinge. For example, upper sole 1502 and lower sole 1503 can be monolithically formed to have a one-piece construction. In other embodiments, the upper sole 1502 can be bonded, adhered, or otherwise coupled to the lower sole 1503 either directly or indirectly (i.e. through the bonding, adhering, or coupling of materials interposed between upper sole 1502 and lower sole 1503).
Linear resistance device 1700 can include housing 1701, shaft 1702, and coupling eyelets 1720 and 1721. Shaft 1702 is fixedly attached to both piston 1703 and coupling eyelet 1721. Coupling eyelet 1720 is fixedly attached to the non-shaft end of linear resistance device 1700. As forces act upon linear resistance device 1700, the distance between coupling eyelets 1720 and 1721 can be reduced subject to movement of fluid across piston 1703. Housing 1701 can contain fluids such as compressible gases (e.g., air, nitrogen, oxygen, and the like) and/or liquids such as water, hydraulic fluid, oil, and the like.
Piston engagement element 1730 is threaded into a housing 1723 which is bolted onto end cap 1722. End cap 1722 is adjustably located within the housing 1701 by selectable configuration of threaded attachment element 1724. The depth which element 1724 is screwed into the housing 1701 can determine the depth piston engagement element 1730 engages with piston engagement receptor orifice 1704. In this way fluid flow, and therefore performance characteristics of linear resistance device 1701, can be adjusted.
Other embodiments use different engagement element shapes and/or attachment means. For example, piston engagement element 1730 may be directly attached to end cap 1722, integrally formed with end cap 1722, or integrally formed with housing 1701. In some embodiments, other adjustment means are used to set the depth of piston engagement element. In some other embodiments the depth of element 1730 is not adjustable.
In some embodiments piston engagement element 1730 is not entirely fixedly attached. For instance it may be restricted from substantial movement towards or away from the ends of the housing but may have some “play” to allow piston engagement element 1730 to stay aligned with piston 1703. For instance, the attachment end of piston engagement element 1730 could be a ball coupled within a socket.
Piston 1703 includes a piston engagement receptor orifice 1704. Piston engagement element 1730 and piston engagement receptor orifice 1704 can be aligned such that as piston 1703 moves within the housing 1701 piston engagement element 1730 interfaces with piston engagement receptor orifice 1704.
Piston 1703 contains a circumferential groove 1708 which holds a seal 1707 that substantially limits the flow of fluid across the interface between piston 1703 and housing 1701 as the piston travels within the housing. Referring to
Movement of fluid across piston 1703 can be regulated at least in part by the interface 1750 of piston engagement element 1730, piston engagement receptor orifice 1704, and seal 1731 interposed between the two. The function of interface 1750 can be such that fluid flow rate across the interface 1750 can vary as the piston 1703 travels inside housing 1701. Geometries of piston engagement receptor orifice 1704 and piston engagement element 1730 can be selected such that fluid rate volume across interface 1750 can vary during different segments of the piston's travel. In the illustrated embodiment, the change in flow rate can be affected by the variable diameter of piston engagement receptor orifice 1704. Referring to
In the expanded configuration of
For a desired function of a linear resistance mechanism 1700 contained in a wearable exercise apparatus, a substantial difference in diameter D1 and D2 can be selected to initially minimize vertical movement of a portion of the exercise apparatus and subsequently accelerate vertical movement of a portion of the exercise apparatus. The volume of fluid allowed across interface 1750 as the seal 1731 is adjacent to an initial segment 1704A of orifice 1704 can be substantially zero or non-zero. The volume of fluid allowed across interface 1750 as the seal 1731 is no longer adjacent to segment 1704A can be substantially greater. If the initial volume of flow is non-zero, the secondary fluid flow can be 5×, 10×, or 50× the initial fluid flow, or ranges encompassing such ratios. Other ratios can be selected, if needed or desired.
Piston engagement element 1730 contains 3 grooves 1732 for holding one or more seals to allow for varying configurations or adjustments. It is understood that an engagement element could have a greater or lesser number of grooves 1732.
Piston 1703 can have a one-piece construction and is threaded onto the shaft 1702. In other embodiments, the piston can have a multi-piece construction and attached to the shaft using different methods. For instance, the piston may be made of a plurality of components and/or the shaft and piston may be stamped together, or both. Any portion of the shaft or any other component that is inserted into or attached adjacent to the piston can be considered part of the piston. For instance, cavity 1760 of
In the current embodiment, coupling eyelets 1720 and 1721 are threaded onto the linear resistance device. In other embodiments one or the other, but not both are threaded on. In yet other embodiments neither is threaded on. For example, a coupler eyelet may be integrally formed or stamped onto a shaft or end cap. In yet other embodiments the coupler connections are not eyelets. For instance, one or both coupler connections may be a ball or socket.
Distinguishing linear resistance device 1800 of
Piston engagement element 1830 can be attached within the housing at a location outside the range of the travel of the piston 1803. The element 1830 can be fixedly attached, rotatably attached (for instance a ball and socket joint), or adjustably attached to housing 1801 or other elements contained in housing 1801. Other engagement element shapes can be used.
Piston engagement element 1830 and piston engagement receptor orifice 1804 can be aligned such that as piston 1803 moves within the housing 1801, piston engagement element 1830 interfaces with piston engagement receptor orifice 1804.
Movement of fluid across piston 1803 can be regulated at least in part by the interface 1850 of piston engagement element 1830, piston engagement receptor orifice 1804, and seal 1831 interposed between the two. The function of interface 1850 can be such that fluid flow rate across the interface 1850 can vary as the piston 1803 travels inside in housing 1801. Geometries of piston engagement element orifice 1804 and piston engagement element 1830 can be selected such that fluid rate across interface 1850 can vary among different segments of the piston's travel. In the illustrated embodiment, the change in flow rate can be affected by the variable diameter of piston engagement element 1830. Referring to
In the expanded configuration of
For a desired function of a linear resistance mechanism 1800 contained in a wearable exercise apparatus, a substantial difference between diameters D2 and D1 can be selected to initially minimize vertical movement of a portion of the exercise apparatus and subsequently accelerate vertical movement of a portion of the exercise apparatus. The volume of fluid allowed across interface 1850 as the seal 1831 is adjacent to an initial segment 1830A of element 1830 can be substantially zero or non-zero. The volume of fluid allowed across interface 1850 as the seal 1831 is no longer adjacent to segment 1830A can be substantially greater. If the initial volume of flow is non-zero, the secondary fluid flow can by 5×, 10×, or 50× the initial fluid flow, or ranges encompassing such ratios. Other ratios can be selected, if needed or desired.
Piston engagement element orifice 1804 contains a groove 1832 for containing a seal. Groove 1832 can be located at other locations in orifice 1804 or in cavity 1860 of the shaft 1802. More than one seal located in more than one groove can be used.
Piston 1804 can have a one-piece or multi piece construction. Piston and shaft can be joined by threading, stamping, chemical bonding, or heat bonding. Other means of joining piston and shaft can be used. The piston and shaft may be formed as one piece. Any portion of the shaft or any other component that is inserted into or attached adjacent to the piston can be considered part of the piston. For instance, cavity 1860 of
Each of the exercise apparatuses disclosed herein can have different types of programs or programmable logic devices that evaluate when the other exercise apparatus has completed or is expected to complete a full gait such that the compressed exercise apparatus can be lifted from the ground, as discussed above. The exercise apparatuses can be allowed to compress based on the completion of the gait. This increases or maximizes the vertical work and also allows the expanded exercise apparatus to close as soon as the compressed exercise apparatus is off the ground.
Embodiments of the technology and the operations described in this specification can be implemented using controllers with digital electronic circuitry, computer software, firmware, or hardware. These components can also be coupled to or incorporated into the exercise apparatuses disclosed herein. Embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented using one or more computer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions, encoded on a computer storage medium for execution by, or to control the operation of, the step-up apparatuses.
The controllers disclosed herein can include, without limitation, a programmed processor and a computer storage medium that can be, or can be included in, a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination thereof. While a computer storage medium is not a propagated signal, a computer storage medium can be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially generated propagated signal. In some embodiments, a controller can contain a processor and a memory. The controller can be powered by an internal power supply (e.g., one or more batteries) or an external power supply (e.g., one or more batteries, an AC outlet, etc.). Leads can couple external power supplies to the controller. The controller can receive input from sensor leads.
The controller can include one or more wireless transmit/receive devices to send and/or receive data to/from other exercise apparatus(es) and/or other external devices. The controller can control resistance devices through a control output lead. In some embodiments, controllers include a user input/output lead (“I/O lead”). The I/O lead can be used to interact with an I/O device. The I/O device allows the user to set and monitor exercise apparatus settings. These settings may include, among other things, level of exercise, apparatus expansion parameters (e.g., maximum expansion height, minimum expansion height, etc.), exercise program selections, etc. When a user selects a desired setting, the controller can store the user's preference in its memory. The I/O lead can also be used to send data to an I/O device to display data regarding the exercise received, including number of steps taken, miles walked, vertical work performed, calories burned, and the like. A transmitter can send data to another device or component and can be part of the controller or a separate component, Footwear wearable devices can be interconnected by any form or medium of digital data communication, e.g., a communication network suitable for TX/RX devices. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (“LAN”) and a wide area network (“WAN”), an inter-network (e.g., the Internet), and peer-to-peer networks (e.g., ad hoc peer-to-peer networks).
The term “programmed processor” encompasses all kinds of apparatuses, devices, and machines for processing data, including by way of example a programmable microprocessor, a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, a system on a chip, or more than one of, or combinations of, the foregoing. The apparatus can include special purpose logic circuitry, e.g., an FPGA (field programmable gate array) or an ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). A process can receive data from one or more sensor leads, transmit/receive devices, receivers, or the like. The data can be used in computations, alone or in combination with other data (for instance, data stored in the controller's memory). Memory can be used to store a wide range of data (e.g., raw data, processed data, output from computations, calibration data, or the like). The data can be used to control aspects of the exercise apparatus to set or modify the resistance of resistance components. Memory can store information from previous sessions or steps of the exercise apparatus. The information can include raw data, processed data, best fit curves, control maps, tables (e.g., lookup tables), programs, and the like. Memory can be non-removable memory and/or removable memory. Non-removable memory includes, without limitation, random-access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), a hard disk, or any other type of memory storage device. Removable memory includes, without limitation, a subscriber identity module (SIM) card, a memory stick, a secure digital (SD) memory card, and the like. Memory can be incorporated into the controller or carried by an exercise apparatus. In other embodiments, information can be accessed from, and stored in, external memory (e.g., memory that is not physically located on the exercise apparatus) For example, information can be stored on a server, smart phone or other portable device, a home computer, or an external storage device.
To enhance operation, a controller may record the amount of force upon the apparatus when the user initially stepped on it, the amount of force on the apparatus when the step-up mechanism was fully compressed, the speed with which the user walked, the angle of the footwear at the beginning, middle, and/or end of the user's gait, the length of the user's stride, or the like. In some embodiments, the controller records the relevant data occasionally to calibrate the apparatus. In other embodiments, the controller records the data with each step. In some embodiments, the controller records data from multiple steps and computes an average for a given metric, discards readings that are outside a range, and/or arrives at a parameter through other calculations/equations using data from multiple steps.
A controller may modify the descent speed and/or level of dampening multiple times during a single compression of an exercise apparatus. To facilitate lowering the user's center of gravity as fast as possible, a controller may minimize dampening forces of the apparatus for a significant portion of the device's compression. The controller may increase dampening forces near the end of the device's compression. Increased dampening at or near the end of compression can provide the user with a more comfortable experience. Increased dampening may be selected to absorb energy near the end of the user's gait to increase the level of exercise the user receives or to deliver increased exercise to specific muscles.
The timing of when dampening is modified during compression may be based on data obtained during the current step, data from previous steps on the current apparatus, data from the current step on another apparatus, and/or data from previous steps on another apparatus. For instance, sensor data from one or more previous steps on the current apparatus may be used to set an appropriate level of dampening for the current step.
The timing and/or level of dampening may be affected by data from the other exercise apparatus. When the user is stepping from the current exercise apparatus to the other one, dampening may be modified based on when the user begins stepping on the other device, how much force the user has exerted on the other device, or the like. To increase exercise while a user is stepping off a device, the step-up mechanism may be prohibited from fully compressing until the user has begun stepping up onto the other exercise apparatus. This would absorb some of the energy the user expends while stepping onto the other footwear apparatus as compared to stepping off of a fully closed apparatus.
To provide for interaction with a user, embodiments of the subject matter described in this specification can be implemented using a controller having a display device, e.g., an LCD (liquid crystal display), LED (light emitting diode) display, or OLED (organic light emitting diode) display, for displaying information to the user. The embodiments may have and a keyboard; a pointing device, e.g., a mouse or a trackball; touch screen; one or more buttons; or one or more knobs by which the user can provide input to the computer. The displayed information can include workout information (e.g., calories burned, workout time, etc.), routines (e.g., high cardiovascular routines, low cardiovascular routines, targeted muscle routines, calibration routines, etc.), workout history, user profiles, settings, or the like. In some implementations, a touch screen can be used to display information and receive input from a user. Other kinds of devices can be used to provide for interaction with a user as well; for example, feedback provided to the user can be in any form of sensory feedback, e.g., visual feedback, auditory feedback, or tactile feedback, and input from the user can be received in any form, including acoustic, speech, or tactile input.
It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It should also be noted that the term “or” is generally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise.
Various methods and techniques described above provide a number of ways to carry out the invention. Of course, it is to be understood that not necessarily all objectives or advantages described may be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the methods may be performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objectives or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.
The exercise apparatus disclosed herein can be worn to provide a workout that is appreciably similar to workouts provided by climbing stairs, climbing slopes, hiking, walking in sand or gravel, or using a StairMaster machine, For example, a user can wear the apparatuses indoors while performing everyday chores and activities. In outdoor applications, the user can wear the apparatuses on generally flat surfaces that can be found at shopping centers, malls, parks, sidewalks, or the like. The apparatuses can provide a motion that generally simulates climbing stairs to provide a vigorous workout even though the user is traveling across these generally flat surfaces. Of course, the apparatuses can be worn while traveling along uneven surfaces (e.g., while hiking) and on relatively steep inclines or declines. Traveling is broadly construed to include, without limitation, walking, running, jogging, or the like. In some embodiments, the exercise apparatuses can be used in aerobic classes. For example, a user can lock one exercise apparatus in an extended configuration and the other exercise apparatus in a collapsed configuration to perform step-up routines. The user can then step in place.
Furthermore, the skilled artisan will recognize the interchangeability of various features from different embodiments disclosed herein. Similarly, the various features and acts discussed above, as well as other known equivalents for each such feature or act, can be mixed and matched by one of ordinary skill in this art to perform methods in accordance with principles described herein. Additionally, the methods that are described and illustrated herein are not limited to the exact sequence of acts described, nor are they necessarily limited to the practice of all of the acts set forth. Other sequences of events or acts, or less than all of the events, or simultaneous occurrence of the events, may be utilized in practicing the embodiments of the invention.
U.S. application Ser. No. 12/865,695 the entirety of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein and made a part of this specification. The embodiments, exercise apparatus components, features, systems, devices, methods, and techniques described herein may, in some embodiments, be similar to any one or more of the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods, and techniques described in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/865,695. In addition, the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods, and techniques described herein may, in certain embodiments, be applied to or used in connection with any one or more of the embodiments, features, systems, devices, materials, methods, and techniques disclosed in the above-mentioned U.S. application Ser. No. 12/865,695. For example, the dampeners, expandable members, biasing members, and other components and features (e.g., force relationships, methods of operation, etc.) disclosed in U.S. application Ser. No. 12/865,695 may incorporate the embodiments disclosed herein.
Although the invention has been disclosed in the context of certain embodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the invention extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Accordingly, it is not intended that the invention be limited, except as by the appended claims.
Claims
1. A wearable footwear apparatus, comprising:
- an articulating step-up sole assembly including a support platform having a toe support region and a heel support region; and a swing arm mechanism movable between an expanded configuration and an unexpanded configuration, the swing arm mechanism including a pivotable sole plate for contacting the ground, the sole plate having a forward portion and a heel portion, the forward portion being rotatably coupled to the support platform at a location forward of the heel support region, and a resistance device that is configured to keep the swing arm mechanism in the expanded configuration while a user raises most of the user's body mass onto the swing arm mechanism and, after the user raises most of the user's body mass onto the swing arm mechanism, is configured to allow the heel support region to move towards the heel portion of the sole plate to lower the user's body towards the ground.
2. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the sole plate is rotatable about an axis of rotation that is positioned proximate to the toe support region.
3. The footwear apparatus of claim 2 wherein the axis of rotation is positioned underneath the user's toes or ball of the user's foot during use.
4. The footwear apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a pin extending through the sole plate and the support platform.
5. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the support platform rotates an angle of at least 10 degrees relative to the sole plate as the swing arm mechanism moves from the expanded configuration to the unexpanded configuration.
6. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein a rearward end of the heel portion is positioned forward of the back of the user's heel when the swing arm mechanism is in the unexpanded configuration.
7. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein a rearward end of the heel portion is positioned approximately below the center of the user's heel when the swing arm mechanism is in the unexpanded configuration.
8. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the swing arm mechanism has a V-shaped configuration and the sole plate is rotatable about an axis of rotation that is located underneath the toes or ball of the user's foot.
9. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the resistance device comprises a locking device that keeps the swing arm mechanism in the expanded configuration until the locking device unlocks in response to body movement of the user.
10. The footwear apparatus of claim 1 wherein the resistance device comprises a locking device that keeps the swing arm mechanism in the expanded configuration for a predetermined length of time after the user steps on the footwear apparatus.
11. The footwear apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
- a locking mechanism that keeps the swing arm mechanism in the expanded configuration when locked and that allows the swing arm mechanism to move to the unexpanded configuration when unlocked; and
- a release mechanism connected to the locking mechanism, wherein the release mechanism unlocks the locking mechanism in response to at least one of movement of the user's body or a predetermined period of time.
12. The footwear apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
- a foot restraining system having at least one strap for wrapping around and holding the user's foot against the support platform.
13. The footwear apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
- a shoe upper connected to the articulating step-up sole assembly.
14. An exercise system, comprising:
- a first footwear apparatus wearable on a foot of a user, the first footwear apparatus including a first articulating step-up sole assembly and at least one first sensor;
- a second footwear apparatus wearable on the other foot of the user, the second footwear apparatus including a second articulating step-up sole assembly and at least one second sensor; and
- a controller communicatively coupled to the at least one first sensor and the at least one second sensor, the controller being programmed to control operation of the second footwear apparatus based on one or more signals from the at least one first sensor.
15. The exercise system of claim 14 wherein the controller is programmed to determine at least one of a desired rate of collapse of the second footwear apparatus, a time delay for collapse, and target configurations of the second footwear apparatus.
16. The exercise system of claim 14 wherein the controller comprises at least one of a smartphone, a tablet, or a computer.
17. The exercise system of claim 14 wherein the controller is physically coupled to one of the first footwear apparatus and the second footwear apparatus.
18. A footwear apparatus wearable on a user's foot, the footwear apparatus having a raised V-shaped configuration for supporting the user's body mass and a lowered configuration, the footwear apparatus being movable away from the raised V-shaped configuration after the user has stepped up and onto the footwear apparatus.
19. The footwear apparatus of claim 18 wherein the footwear apparatus is movable away from the raised V-shaped configuration in response to a force applied by the user.
20. The footwear apparatus of claim 18, further comprising:
- a locking device that prevents collapsing of a self-expanding heel assembly as the user initially steps onto the heel assembly, the locking device unlocking to allow the heel assembly to collapse after at least most of the user's mass is supported by the heel assembly.
21-27. (canceled)
Type: Application
Filed: Aug 6, 2019
Publication Date: May 7, 2020
Inventor: Jeffrey David Stewart (Sammamish, WA)
Application Number: 16/533,681
