Including Rotating Friction Element Patents (Class 482/115)
  • Patent number: 11806575
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable resistance machine that allows a user to perform rowing, skiing, paddling, or any other physical activities at any suitable location. The portable resistance machine contains a housing, a pulley, a flywheel, a planetary gear assembly, an anchor, a retraction mechanism, and a pull cord. The housing contains a central gear support. The pulley, the flywheel, the planetary gear assembly, and the retraction mechanism are positioned within the housing. The central gear support is positioned within the housing. The planetary gear assembly is positioned within the central gear support. The pulley and the flywheel are axially connected opposite to each other along the planetary gear assembly. The retraction mechanism is operatively connected to the pulley, where the retraction mechanism is configured to retract the pull cord into a spooled state around the pulley. The anchor is externally connected to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2023
    Assignee: ARLU LLC
    Inventors: Luke Tipple, Tiziano Cousineau, David Riley
  • Patent number: 11213718
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable rowing machine that allows a user to perform rowing, skiing, paddling, or any other physical activities at any suitable location. The portable rowing machine contains a housing, a pulley, a flywheel, a planetary gear assembly, an anchor, a retraction mechanism, and a pull cord. The housing contains a central gear support. The pulley, the flywheel, the planetary gear assembly, and the retraction mechanism are positioned within the housing. The central gear support is positioned within the housing. The planetary gear assembly is positioned within the central gear support. The pulley and the flywheel are axially connected opposite to each other along the planetary gear assembly. The retraction mechanism is operatively connected to the pulley, where the retraction mechanism is configured to retract the pull cord into a spooled state around the pulley. The anchor is externally connected to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2022
    Inventors: Luke Tipple, David Riley, Tiziano Cousineau
  • Patent number: 11154745
    Abstract: The present invention is a portable rowing machine that allows a user to perform rowing, skiing, paddling, or any other physical activities at any suitable location. The portable rowing machine contains a housing, a pulley, a flywheel, a planetary gear assembly, an anchor, a retraction mechanism, and a pull cord. The housing contains a central gear support. The pulley, the flywheel, the planetary gear assembly, and the retraction mechanism are positioned within the housing. The central gear support is positioned within the housing. The planetary gear assembly is positioned within the central gear support. The pulley and the flywheel are axially connected opposite to each other along the planetary gear assembly. The retraction mechanism is operatively connected to the pulley, where the retraction mechanism is configured to retract the pull cord into a spooled state around the pulley. The anchor is externally connected to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Luke Tipple
  • Patent number: 10967212
    Abstract: A versatile exercise bar includes a support structure formed of a pair of diverging, horizontal support legs with contiguous rear ends, spaced front ends, and an intermediate portion therebetween. A side rail vertically extends from the intermediate portion of each support leg. Adjustably mounted between the two side rails is an exercise bar that is grasped by a user when performing chin-ups or a myriad of other exercises as explained herein. When moved to a desired height and released, the bar is automatically held by a retention mechanism to allow the user to safely anchor a pair of clamps before performing a given exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2021
    Inventor: Michael Phillips
  • Patent number: 10857416
    Abstract: A cable attachment handle for an exercise machine including a main mounting body defining a horizontal axis, a first stud extending from the main mounting body, a first handle mount rotatable about the first stud, a first handle extending from the first handle mount, a second stud extending from the main mounting body, a second handle mount rotatable about the second stud, a second handle extending from the second handle mount, and a cable attachment element affixed to the main mounting body between the first stud and the second stud.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2020
    Assignee: Specialty Fitness Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Jerry K. Leipheimer
  • Patent number: 10556167
    Abstract: An exercise assembly structured to perform different rowing routines characterized different rowing motions. A resistance device is movable within a chamber and is cooperatively structured therewith to resist such movement. A drive assembly includes two drive sections each independently connected in driving relation to said resistance device. A connector structure includes two connector members each attached to a handle and connected in driving relation to a different one of said drive sections. The handle is selectively movable through the plurality of different rowing motions, at least one of which results in the two drive sections concurrently driving the resistance member and being concurrently driven by the two connector members. At least one other rowing motion of the handle is defined by each drive section alternately driving the resistance member and being alternately driven by interconnected ones of said connector members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2020
    Assignee: COREYAK LLC
    Inventors: Brian Machovina, Eileen McHale-Machovina
  • Patent number: 10549148
    Abstract: An exercise device has a main rod, a connecting unit, and a sub rod. The connecting unit has a first plate and a second plate, and the first plate and the second plate are both provided with an axial hole and a rotating axis. The first plate has an arced slot, and the second plate has a closing aperture, a first positioning aperture, a second positioning aperture and a third positioning aperture. The sub rod has a through aperture and a connecting aperture at an end, and the through aperture is inserted with the rotating axis. Another end of the sub rod has a front stand and a control member disposed in the connecting aperture of the sub rod. One end of the control member passes through the arced slot of the first plate to form a pull knob, another end of the control member has an inserting pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2020
    Inventor: Cheng-Yang Hsu
  • Patent number: 10279210
    Abstract: Pairs of magnetic disks and reciprocation piston-cylinders filled with viscous fluid are used to provide friction for a portable exercise apparatus. The viscous fluid in piston-cylinder push-pull configuration provides resistance to an extension cable for physical exercise. The portable exercise apparatus fits in a harness for travel and easy attachment to ordinary household furniture and fixtures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2019
    Inventor: Albert Ky
  • Patent number: 9950204
    Abstract: The invention relates to a portable sports device and particularly a training device for muscle building, with at least one handle and a centrifugal mass operatively connected thereto and mounted on a shaft, which is rotatable by pulling a pull rope fixed to and wound up on the shaft, and with at least one removable additional mass element arrangeable on the centrifugal mass, the at least one additional mass element being configured in the form of a circular ring piece or a circular segment piece.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: April 24, 2018
    Assignee: GERD EISENBLAETTER GMBH
    Inventor: Gerd Eisenblaetter
  • Patent number: 9668675
    Abstract: A sensing device including a sensor, a triggering mechanism is provided. The sensing device is attachable to a covering positioned in contact with a body such that the triggering mechanism extends between first and second segments of the body. Movement of at least one of the first and second segments activates the triggering mechanism to provide an input to the sensor, actuating the sensor to generate an output defining at least one measurement of the movement. The measurement may be one or more of rotation, translation, velocity, acceleration, and joint angle. An intermediate mechanism may be interposed between the triggering mechanism and the sensor. The sensing device may include a means to process or record measurements corresponding to movement. A system and method of measuring the movement is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Inventor: Thomas J. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 9364705
    Abstract: An abdominal workout assist device is disclosed. An elongated member and an attachment means are provided, and a support member is attached therebetween. The attachment means connects to the base of a door with the elongated member connected in parallel to the support member. In operation, the user inserts the device under a door and can perform standard abdominal exercises with the elongated member holding the user's feet on the ground. Additional exercises such as legs lifts can be done with the user holding the handles of the device while laying on their back and their arms extended back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Robert Thompson
  • Patent number: 9364712
    Abstract: A torque detecting assembly connected to a torque acting assembly and a controller, the torque detecting assembly has a passive rotating member and a rotating angle detecting member. The passive rotating member is mounted on a pivot shaft of a torque bracket of the torque acting assembly and is capable of rotating synchronously with the pivot shaft and the torque bracket in an angular extent. The rotating angle detecting member is mounted on the torque acting assembly and is capable of detecting a signal according to rotating angle variation of the passive rotating member to calculate out a torque value. The torque detecting assembly may detect slight rotation of the passive rotating member and calculate out a corresponding torque value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Inventor: Mu-Chuan Wu
  • Patent number: 9028379
    Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for a fitness stick. The apparatus includes an elongated rod, a first track, and a second track. The elongated rod has a center point, a first end, and a second end. The first track extends helically away from the center point along an outer surface of the elongated rod toward the first end. The second track extends helically away from the center point along the outer surface of the elongated rod toward the second end. The first track extends helically around the outer surface of the elongated rod in a first rotational direction and the second track extends helically around the outer surface of the elongated rod in a second rotational direction. The second rotational direction is opposite from the first rotational direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventors: Li Si Yang, Michael Grech
  • Patent number: 9011301
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that provides multiple different exercises for a User, including both resistance movements and isometrics. The User interacts with the apparatus by grasping a bar. A resistance mechanism is symmetrically mounted on a second bar and provides infinitely variable resistance to the User, as well as soundproof operation. There is a vertical column that allows infinite positioning of the bars for different bodily exercises, and a bench for support. The User can change the exercise resistance by verbal commands, or the apparatus can vary the exercise resistance in response to the force applied by the User. The apparatus can be operated at locations where electric service is permanently unavailable, or in zero gravity; and the apparatus can be mounted inside a shallow closet and hidden from view. To verify accuracy, the resistance can be calibrated against a known quantity of weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Balandis Taft Patents, LLC
    Inventors: Adolph James Balandis, Andrew Aspee Taft
  • Patent number: 8998779
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a cable that is extracted from a housing when the extraction force is sufficient to rotate a drum that is rotatably mounted within the housing. A brake material is sandwiched between the drum and at least one tension band to provide adjustable resistance to rotation of the drum. A knob is rotated to adjust tension in the at least one tension band without affecting tension in the brake material. Indicia associated with rotation of the knob show changes in the resistance level as the knob rotates through more than one complete revolution relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventors: Stephen P. Ihli, Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 8845497
    Abstract: An exercise machine that provides a generally consistent resistive force against a user who walks, steps, or runs away from the machine as part of a strength training exercise program. The machine is built upon a movable frame having transport wheel assemblies that allow the exercise machine to be placed on an indoor floor surface or on the ground outdoors. The frame of the device further supports three parallel spinning assemblies that together allow a length of linear strap attached to the user to run out from the machine and thereafter be retracted or rewound back into the machine. The spinning assemblies include a flywheel assembly, a spool assembly, and a spring assembly, each co-axially arranged on a spin axle extending across the frame. The spring assembly is fixed against the frame and incorporates a coil spring that tightens with the rotation of the spin axle in a first direction (allowing the linear run-out strap to extend out from the spool assembly).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Inventor: Joseph Turner
  • Publication number: 20140274599
    Abstract: A rope pulling exercise apparatus includes an exercise base, a rope base, a pivot base, a pivot-base pulley and a rope. The rope base along an exercise direction has a first end and a second end, and the first end is connected to the exercise base. The pivot base is pivotally joined to the second end of the rope base. A swing direction of the pivot base is relative to the exercise direction. The pivot-base pulley is pivotally connected at the pivot base. The rope has one end connected to the rope base and the other end for pulling along the exercise direction; and the rope is wound around the pivot-base pulley.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Inventors: Lung-Fei CHUANG, Jin-Chen CHUANG
  • Publication number: 20140274600
    Abstract: Embodiments of a strength training apparatus and related methods are provided. In one embodiment, the strength training apparatus includes a base member and a tower structure coupled with the base member. At least one arm is pivotally coupled with the tower structure. A flywheel and a cable and pulley system are associated with the at least one arm, wherein displacement of at least one cable of the cable and pulley system effects rotation of the flywheel. The strength training apparatus may include a selectively adjustable magnetic braking mechanism associated with a flywheel that is configured to apply a selected resistance to the rotation of the flywheel. A torque sensor may be associated with the flywheel and the measured torque during operation of the apparatus may be used to calculate the work expended in rotating the flywheel. In one embodiment, the calculated work may be expressed in units of watts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2014
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: William Dalebout, Michael Olson
  • Publication number: 20140228181
    Abstract: An exercise device comprising; a platform, a first limb attachment means, a first extendable cord attached to the first limb attachment means, the first extendable cord being at least partially located within the platform, and a tensioning means within the platform, wherein the tensioning means can be adjusted to alter the resistance of the first extendable cord to extension.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Stewart William Powell
  • Publication number: 20140200120
    Abstract: A modular resistance force system includes an axle configured to be rotatable around a rotational axis and one or more resistance mechanisms. Each of the one or more resistance mechanisms includes a resistance element disposed about a portion of the axle, a resistance element housing configured to house the resistance element and a resistance substance disposed between the resistance element and the resistance element housing. Either the resistance element or the resistance element housing is selectively engaged to rotate with the axle. A resistance between the resistance element and the resistance substance causes a force to be applied to the axle when the resistance element and the resistance element housing move relative to each other.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 17, 2014
    Publication date: July 17, 2014
    Inventor: Christopher G. GALLAGHER
  • Patent number: 8727955
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise device includes two operating mechanisms and two connecting mechanisms. Each of the operating mechanisms includes an outer housing, a grip disposed at an end of the outer housing, and a rolling unit disposed at an opposite end of the outer housing. The rolling units of the operating mechanisms contact respectively two sides of the waist or hip of a user. The connecting mechanisms cooperate with the operating mechanisms to form a looped structure. Each of the connecting mechanisms includes an elastic connecting piece connected between the outer housings of the operating mechanisms, and a plurality of sliding units sleeved movably on the elastic connecting piece and movable upwardly and downwardly on the abdomen or back of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Inventor: Wendy Huang
  • Publication number: 20140113779
    Abstract: A hand-held exercise device comprises a frame, a handle attached to the frame, a spool element pivotally mounted to the frame, a pull-cord movable between a wound configuration in which the pull-cord is wound around the spool element and an unwound configuration in which the pull-cord is unwound from the spool element, a resistance element pivotally mounted to the frame, a transmission that couples the pull-cord to the resistance element such that pulling the pull-cord from the device causes the resistance element to rotate, and a damping means that acts to slow the rotation of the resistance element. The device provides a compact and lightweight form of exercise equipment that is easy to carry and easy to store. The device can be used with various fixtures, and also with a second handle fixed to the pull-cord, to allow the user to perform a wide range of exercises. Preferably the exercise device transmits exercise data to an external device that provides feedback and guidance to the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 18, 2012
    Publication date: April 24, 2014
    Inventor: Andrew Loach
  • Publication number: 20140094351
    Abstract: A resistance brace includes a pair of hinged arms having plates cooperating with one another to define a first and second pivots point separated from one another by a distance. A pair of splints having limb-attachment portions and geared ends engaged with one another and pivotably coupled with the plates at the pivot points. An adjustable compression member is coupled with the plates to compress the plates against the geared ends so as to frictionally impede movement of the splints relative to the plates. A joint harness is coupled with the hinged arms to attach the resistance brace to a joint of a body so that the hinged arms are positioned on opposing sides of the joint relative to a plane of rotation of the joint. Attachment members are coupled with the splints to attach the resistance brace to a first and second body portions extending from the joint.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 3, 2013
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Inventor: Steven M. Cersonsky
  • Patent number: 8647244
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a disk rotatable in first and second directions against a frictional force and a device disposed between a cable and the disk. The device is responsive to tensioning and movement of the cable in the first direction for coupling the cable to the disk whereupon the disk rotates against the frictional force with movement of the cable in the first direction. The device is also responsive to release of the tension in the cable in the first direction for uncoupling the cable from the disk. A rewind arm coupled between the disk and the device is also responsive to the release of the tension in the cable in the first direction for tensioning and moving the cable and the device in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Inventor: James Ronald Wyeroski
  • Publication number: 20130310230
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, one or more pull cables running through cable guides to provide resistance exercise, and a mechanism for providing variable resistance to the cables. The frame may include a pair of uprights and a pair of cross members that combine to form a rectangular construct that allows the cable guides to be mounted at a multiplicity of selected points above and to both sides of a user standing between the uprights. The guides may be mounted at any of the selected points on the uprights and the cross members to allow the user to select an advantageous “pull point” for a desired exercise without moving the frame members and without moving other guides. A computer/processor may be used to control the resistance force applied to the cables and/or to record exercise results.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 21, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Inventor: Joshua Norris
  • Patent number: 8556783
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a cable that is extracted from a housing when the extraction force is sufficient to rotate a drum that is rotatably mounted within the housing. A brake material is sandwiched between the drum and a tension band to provide adjustable resistance to rotation of the drum. A knob is rotated to adjust tension in the tension band without affecting tension in the brake material. Indicia on the knob cooperate with indicia on a secondary display member to show changes in the resistance level as the knob rotates through more than one complete revolution relative to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen P. Ihli, Mark A. Krull
  • Patent number: 8529416
    Abstract: An exercising device includes a disc shaped member capable of rotating about a point of rotation. The exercising device also includes an elongated supporting member connected to the point of rotation of the disc shaped member. Further, the exercising device includes a braking mechanism carried by the elongated supporting member. The braking mechanism is capable of contacting the disc shaped member to apply a resistance to the rotation of the disc shaped member. Moreover, the exercising device includes a foot engaging member connected to the disc shaped member. The foot engaging member is adapted to be operated by feet of an individual. The operation of the foot engaging member by the individual against the resistance to the rotation applied by the braking mechanism exercises the individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: TK Holding, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael Jennings
  • Publication number: 20130109546
    Abstract: An abdominal exercise device includes two operating mechanisms and two connecting mechanisms. Each of the operating mechanisms includes an outer housing, a grip disposed at an end of the outer housing, and a rolling unit disposed at an opposite end of the outer housing. The rolling units of the operating mechanisms contact respectively two sides of the waist or hip of a user. The connecting mechanisms cooperate with the operating mechanisms to form a looped structure. Each of the connecting mechanisms includes an elastic connecting piece connected between the outer housings of the operating mechanisms, and a plurality of sliding units sleeved movably on the elastic connecting piece and movable upwardly and downwardly on the abdomen or back of the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventor: Wendy Huang
  • Patent number: 8210997
    Abstract: The present invention resides in an exercise device that is lightweight and easy to transport, and is particularly effective in improving neuromuscular/proprioceptive coordination, balance and core strength. The exercise device draws on the well known physical fitness benefits of canoe and kayak paddling, and at the same time is a device that can be used in a gym, home, office, or at any land site desired. The exercise device of the present invention comprises a pole that can be grasped in two hands similar to grasping a canoe or kayak paddle. A yoke is positioned at one end of the pole. A roller is held axially in the yoke. A variable resistance brake controls the ease with which the roller is able to rotate within the yoke. An adjustment means may be positioned on the pole that allows the user of the device to control the variable resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 3, 2012
    Inventors: Amelia N. Thomas, Janine M Alexander
  • Publication number: 20120142505
    Abstract: An exercise device has two handles between which a flywheel is suspended on a cord. By twisting the cord and repeatedly pulling on the handles, the flywheel is caused to rotate about its axis of rotation. The cord passes through two passages formed in the flywheel. The latter is a solid body which is pierced only by the passages. The passages run obliquely inclined with respect to the axis of rotation. The friction between the cord and the wall(s) of the passages is increased when the handles are pulled apart and, as a result, the flywheel is prevented from sliding along the rope, for instance downwardly when the exercise device is used vertically.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 13, 2012
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: MARKUS SIEBENEICHER
  • Patent number: 8167620
    Abstract: A team roping training apparatus that comprises a motor having a motor shaft, a spool having a spool shaft, and a switch to selectively energize the motor. The spool is selectively rotatable with the motor shaft such that when rotation of shaft is impeded through a roper's grasping of an attached rope, the spool is disengaged form the motor shaft. According to the preferred embodiment, such selective rotation is accomplished with a clutch mechanically coupling the spool shaft with the motor shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2012
    Inventors: James Baker, John R. Ray
  • Patent number: 8157709
    Abstract: The present invention provides a multidirectional exerciser for hand, wrist and forearm comprising a handle having an axial opening through which a bolt extends. A spring means is around one end of the bolt disposed against an adjustment ring. A resistance knob is mounted on the adjustment ring. A pressure plate is mounted at the opposite end of the handle between the handle and the head of the bolt. At least one clutch disc is disposed against the pressure plate. A knob is mounted around the pressure plate and clutch disc, mounted for relative rotational movement with respect to the handle. The wrists and hands are exercised by holding the handle in one hand and the knob/grip member in the other hand, and repetitively twisting the handle and knob/grip member in opposite directions. A detachable grip member is mounted over said knob and the detachable grip member further comprises a gyro ring and a squeeze grip strengthener.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Inventors: William T. Wilkinson, Juan Fernandez
  • Patent number: 8092353
    Abstract: An apparatus and system are disclosed for a fitness stick. The apparatus includes an elongated rod having a center point, a first end, and a second end. The apparatus also includes a first track connected with the rod and extending helically away from the center point along an outer surface of the elongated rod toward the first end, and a second track connected with the rod and extending helically away from the center point along an outer surface of the elongated rod toward the second end. Any point along the second track is reflectively symmetrical to a corresponding point on the first track about a central plane extending through the center point and orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the elongated rod. The system includes the apparatus, first and second hand-slides, and a resistance band coupling the first hand-slide with the second hand-slide.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 10, 2012
    Inventors: Li Si Yang, Michael Grech
  • Patent number: 8079941
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercising apparatus including a rotatable ball, a handlebar, first and second clutches and a tension adjustor. The rotatable ball has an external surface. The handlebar passes through the ball and has two ends extending outwardly from the surface of the ball to provide handle grips. The first and second clutches support the ball. The tension adjustor is connected to the clutches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Andre Nortje
  • Patent number: 7901329
    Abstract: A swinging gymnastic machine includes a front swinging assembly, a rear swinging assembly, a handle assembly pivotally secured to the front swinging assembly, and a pedal assembly pivotally secured to the rear swinging assembly. Each of the front and rear swinging assemblies has a spring unit. The front and rear swinging assemblies are durable and are unsusceptible of deflection. The swinging gymnastic machine also has the benefit of reducing the occupied space when it is not in use as both a front leg and the handle assembly are adapted to be folded rearwardly. A person has to exert a great force to overcome the resistance of both the front and rear swinging assemblies through the arms and calves in order to effectively exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Inventor: Jao-Hsing Tsai
  • Patent number: 7896788
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus used by an individual that is performing a variation of a push-up exercise. The exercise apparatus includes a footing, a lower housing, a lower housing cap, a bearing element, and an upper platform. The footing is attached to the lower housing and prevents the lower housing from rotating or laterally moving along a floor or other support surface. The upper platform rotates relative to the lower housing through the bearing element, which rests on the lower housing cap. The upper platform has either an ergonomical handle or a punch pad attached to it for an individual to utilize the exercise apparatus through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Stanley Schall
  • Publication number: 20110028286
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercising apparatus including a rotatable ball, a handlebar, first and second clutches and a tension adjustor. The rotatable ball has an external surface. The handlebar passes through the ball and has two ends extending outwardly from the surface of the ball to provide handle grips. The first and second clutches support the ball. The tension adjustor is connected to the clutches.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Andre Nortje
  • Patent number: 7846077
    Abstract: An apparatus for exercising the abdominal muscles of a user includes an elongate track having first and second ends and a middle portion wherein the elongate track is positionable transverse to a user. The apparatus further includes a carriage movable along the track, wherein that carriage is biased toward the middle portion of the track, and an arm extending substantially perpendicular from the carriage. The arm has a free distal end such that application by user of an alternating torque to the free distal end of the arm urges the carriage in a corresponding reciprocating motion on the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Inventor: Gordon Albin Osbak
  • Publication number: 20100298104
    Abstract: An exercise machine that provides a generally consistent resistive force against a user who walks, steps, or runs away from the machine as part of a strength training exercise program. The machine is built upon a movable frame having transport wheel assemblies that allow the exercise machine to be placed on an indoor floor surface or on the ground outdoors. The frame of the device further supports three parallel spinning assemblies that together allow a length of linear strap attached to the user to run out from the machine and thereafter be retracted or rewound back into the machine. The spinning assemblies include a flywheel assembly, a spool assembly, and a spring assembly, each co-axially arranged on a spin axle extending across the frame. The spring assembly is fixed against the frame and incorporates a coil spring that tightens with the rotation of the spin axle in a first direction (allowing the linear run-out strap to extend out from the spool assembly).
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph TURNER
  • Publication number: 20100216611
    Abstract: The disclosure shows and describes a resistance training apparatus that enables one to use a single machine to exercise antagonistic muscle groups by enabling one to select a first level of resistance in a first direction and select a second level of resistance in a second direction. The apparatus will include a frame assembly, and shaft rotatably mounted to the frame assembly. The apparatus has first and second disks, first and second calipers respectively engaging the disks, and first and second adjustment means that respectively provide varying resistance when one imparts rotating torque is imparted to a first direction or second direction, respectively.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: Clifford A. Stock, Glen Hernan
  • Publication number: 20100160119
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises: a first cylindrical handle rotatable about a first cylindrical axis; a second cylindrical handle rotatable about a second cylindrical axis disposed such that the first handle and the second handle form an angle of less than 180 degrees; and a resistance adjuster operable to adjust a rotational resistance of the first handle about the first cylindrical axis and the second handle about the second cylindrical axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 18, 2009
    Publication date: June 24, 2010
    Inventors: Sean T. O'Connor, Michael T. O'Connor
  • Patent number: 7503884
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus used by an individual that is performing a variation of a push-up exercise. The exercise apparatus includes a footing, a lower housing, a lower housing cap, a bearing element, and an upper platform. The footing is attached to the lower housing and prevents the lower housing from rotating or laterally moving along a floor or other support surface. The upper platform rotates relative to the lower housing through the bearing element, which rests on the lower housing cap. The upper platform has either an ergonomical handle or a punch pad attached to it for an individual to utilize the exercise apparatus through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2009
    Inventor: Stanley L. Schall
  • Patent number: 7491158
    Abstract: A mechanical exercise apparatus for exercising upper extremities, as well as promoting and affecting the natural spinal motions and core stabilization, which relates to the shoulder complex, includes a base to provide stability; a rotator device that is attached to the upper surface of the base; a handle device that is mounted at the rotator device that is slideable; an oval device for repositioning the handle device that is placed in a track fixed in a groove on the upper surface of the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Inventor: Shahram Danaei-Boroumand
  • Publication number: 20090017998
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprising a housing which includes first and second gear members rotatably mounted within the housing. Wherein the first and second gear members each include a handle portion. The first and second gear members are connected to one another by a link member. The exercise apparatus also includes a friction control mechanism which controls a frictional force applied to the first and second gear members.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2006
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Inventor: David Duncan
  • Patent number: 7413531
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus that can be attached to any wheeled device that is pushed in which the wheel of the wheeled device is subjected to rolling resistance so that the person pushing it had to push harder thereby experiencing exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2008
    Inventor: Gary McLaughlin
  • Patent number: 7223215
    Abstract: An exercise device with a true pivot point includes a plurality of arms that are joined at a joint assembly. A first arm is fixed in relation to the joint assembly and is also stabilized by a base member at an end opposite the joint assembly. In one embodiment, the base member is a foot pedal and in another embodiment the base member is a frame that includes a seat for the user. A second arm (or in some cases a pair of arms) rotates about an axis of rotation which is defined by the joint assembly. A resistance mechanism is contained in the joint assembly which includes a one-way clutch interconnected with the second arm to allow the second arm to rotate freely in a first direction. Rotation by the second arm in direction opposite the first, however, engages the resistance mechanism to create a user-selected resistance to rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Charles A. Bastyr
  • Patent number: 7094182
    Abstract: Apparatus for exercising the forearm muscles responsible for movement of the hand at the wrist. The apparatus comprises two rigid rings adjoined by, and allowed to rotate about, the axis of a central, cylindrical variable resistance mechanism. The rigid rings each support a handgrip that is allowed to rotate about the inner circumference of each ring at variable resistance settings set with a peripheral resistance mechanism including an externally threaded terminal end of each handgrip, a knurled sleeve with internal threads at one end and external threads at the other. The knurled sleeve can be rotated about the axis of each handgrip, through internal threads of the inner ring, into the inner surface of the outer ring thereby creating a desired frictional resistance. The desired resistance can be preset and returned to through the incorporation of click-stops.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2006
    Inventor: William S. Holten
  • Patent number: 7087001
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a portable personal training and exercise device with a cable and pulley mechanism which also is a mobile personal training and exercise device having an ergonomic plastic external housing that with the use of straps fits in the hand as well as against different parts of the body. The present invention has a cable and pulley mechanism inside a housing which has a pulley rotatably mounted on a shaft that spins in only one direction. The pulley spins in both directions so that it is spring biased for rewinding a cord onto the pulley. Next to the pulley is a brake wheel or brake bushing that is attached to the shaft. The brake wheel or brake bushing and a pulley spinning on a single shaft inserts into a sealed ball bearing on both ends. A spring is connected to the bottom of the pulley. In the center of the pulley is a combination ball bearing/one-way clutch that turns the shaft only in one direction. The shaft is attached to the brake wheel or brake bushing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Inventor: Stephen P. Ihli
  • Patent number: 6926647
    Abstract: A folding collapsible rowing machine is constructed to include a folding collapsible base frame equipped with a foot frame at the front side, a sliding seat horizontally slidably supported on the main shaft of the base frame, a rocker fastened pivotally with the main shaft of the base frame in front of the sliding seat, elastic cord members connected between the front end of the main shaft of the base frame and the sliding seat, and a friction wheel block unit coupled between the sliding seat and the rocket and adapted to impart a resisting force to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Assignee: Johnson KUO
    Inventors: Chin-Lien Huang, Johnson Kuo
  • Patent number: 6773378
    Abstract: An exercise device with a true pivot point includes a first and a second arm joined at a joint assembly. The first arm is fixed in relation to the joint assembly and is also stabilized at an end opposite the joint assembly. The second arm rotates in a first, or in a second direction, about an axis of rotation which is defined by the joint assembly. A resistance mechanism is contained in the joint assembly which includes a one-way clutch interconnected to the second arm to allow the second arm to rotate freely in a second direction. Rotation by the second arm in a first direction, however, engages the resistance mechanism to create a resistance to the first rotation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Inventors: Charles A. Bastyr, Stephen O. Ross