Involving User Translation Or Physical Simulation Thereof Patents (Class 482/51)
  • Publication number: 20150072835
    Abstract: An exercise machine with controlled motion and user force matching resistance. The machine includes a frame to which is rigidly mounted a motor driven reciprocating drive. A user engageable arm is pivotally mounted to the frame. The reciprocating drive is connected to the arm by a rigid connecting rod. The reciprocating drive drives the arm through a predetermined stroke following a pre-determined velocity profile. The user performs the exercise by applying force to the arm. The arm applies a generally equal counterforce to the force applied by the user. The pre-determined motion of the arm is generally independent of the force applied by the user. The stroke of the arm has a fixed fully contracted position and a user adjustable fully extended position. Adjustments to the fully extended position are made by changing the location of the joint between the connecting rod and the arm. Motion of the arm starts upon application of force applied by the user, and stops when the user force is removed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 8, 2013
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventor: John Frederick Kunstmann
  • Patent number: 8974352
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that simulates walking and jogging with arm exercise. More particularly, the present invention relates to an exercise machine having separately supported pedals for the feet and arm exercise coordinated with the motion of the feet where the pedal stride length is determined by the movements of an operator. Crank arms are positioned on the framework forward the operator at a height comparable to the pedals. Compound guides are used to achieve elliptical curve pedal paths.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2015
    Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
  • Patent number: 8961373
    Abstract: The invention is a skating simulator 10 having a frame 20, a longitudinally extending rail 30, a carriage 40, and a foot pedal 50. The rail 30 is attached to the frame 20. The carriage 40 operably engages the rail 30 for reciprocating along a path 60 along the rail 30. The foot pedal 50 is attached to the carriage 40. The foot pedal 50 has an intermediate member 51, a foot pad 52, means for attaching the foot pad 52 to the intermediate member 51 allowing non circular arcuate movement of the foot pad 52 in relation to the intermediate member 51 in the longitudinal direction X and transverse direction Z.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2015
    Inventor: Terrence Halver
  • Patent number: 8956268
    Abstract: A rehabilitation treadmill includes a running belt, a plurality of pace sensors mounted to two opposite sides of the running belt, and a control panel. When a user intends to do rehabilitation exercise via the rehabilitation treadmill, the pace sensors can detect the user's footstep to generate and transmitting an activation signal and a stop signal to the control panel and then the control panel can activate or stop the running belt subject to the activation or stop signal. In this way, the user can repeatedly put his or her feet on running belt alternately to effectively have the rehabilitational effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Dyaco International Inc.
    Inventors: Hsuan-Fu Huang, Ching-Lung Liao
  • Patent number: 8951168
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a stationary exercise bike along with a display that provides instruction to lead a rider through an exercise program. The invention allows a rider to obtain benefits of a group, instructor-led class though the rider's schedule does not permit the rider to participate in the class. The invention also describes a method of exercising with the foregoing bike and display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Mad Dogg Athletics, Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Baudhuin
  • Patent number: 8951167
    Abstract: An anti-drift mechanism for a treadmill having a chassis, a support frame, and endless belt is mounted between a bottom side of the support frame and a lower half part of the endless belt includes a guide member and a pressing axial member sleeved onto the guide member. The guide member is mounted to the chassis of the treadmill and movable longitudinally with respect to the endless belt in such a way that the pressing axial member can be driven by the guide member to oppress the endless belt so as to increase the pressure applied to the endless belt for the purpose of adjusting the drifting belt back to its normal operational position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2015
    Assignee: Joong Chenn Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 8944969
    Abstract: A rowing exercise machine provides a declining, substantially linear path of motion while offering a consistent force angle at the grip. This allows for a fairly consistent torque application at the shoulder joint, throughout the range of motion of the exercise. The exercise machine includes an input assembly which enables a user to maintain biomechanical alignment of the user's wrist and forearm during performance of the exercise, while maintaining a consistent torque applied to the shoulder joint, in the stability of an exercise machine. The input assembly defines a declining, substantially linear path, where the user's forearms remain substantially parallel to the ground as the input assembly is drawn back.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Cybex International, Inc.
    Inventor: Raymond Giannelli
  • Patent number: 8944970
    Abstract: An apparatus comprises a first unit having a frame comprising a top and bottom arm and a first pivot point. A track comprises two rods disposed between the arms. A pad unit is configured to be slidably joined to the first track. The pad unit comprises a base portion having two grooves for joining to the rods, and a top portion to contact for moving the pad unit. A second unit has a frame comprising a top and bottom arm and a second pivot point. The second pivot point is configured for pivotal joining to the first pivot point. A second track comprises two rods disposed between the arms. A pad unit is configured to be slidably joined to the second track. The pad unit comprises a base portion having two grooves for joining to the rods, and a top portion to contact for moving the pad unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Inventors: Kelvin A. Raumann, Wanda L. Raumann
  • Patent number: 8944968
    Abstract: The invention pertains to a stationary exercise bike along with a display that provides instruction to lead a rider through an exercise program. The invention allows a rider to obtain benefits of a group, instructor-led class though the rider's schedule does not permit the rider to participate in the class. The invention also describes a method of exercising with the foregoing bike and display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Mad Dogg Athletics, Inc.
    Inventor: John Baudhuin
  • Patent number: 8936534
    Abstract: A free walking training machine includes a chassis having a left supporting frame and a right supporting frame, a left swing arm having a left axial portion extending laterally, a right swing arm having a right axial portion extending laterally, a left lifting mechanism, a right lifting mechanism, a first linking unit, and a second linking unit. The left lifting mechanism makes the left swing arm move upward and downward relative to the left supporting frame. The right lifting mechanism makes the right swing arm move upward and downward relative to the right supporting frame. The first and second linking mechanisms are connected with the left and right swing arms for enabling the left and right axial portions and the left and right swing arms to make coordinated movement and move in opposite directions, respectively. The first and second linking mechanisms are operable independently.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R&D Center
    Inventors: Chun-Ho Chen, Chia-Hsun Chuang
  • Patent number: 8936535
    Abstract: An elliptical trainer includes a frame, a handrail set, a flywheel set, and a pedal set. The frame has two opposing rails. The handrail set has two handrails pivotally connected to the frame. The bottom ends of the handrails are pivotally connected to handrail links. The rear end of each of the handrail links has a first guiding roller disposed at one of the rails. The flywheel set has a driving flywheel. The driving flywheel is flanked by two cranks each pivotally connected to a crank link. The front end of the crank link has a second guiding roller disposed at one of the rails. The pedal set has two opposing pedal links. Two ends of each of the pedal links are pivotally connected to the handrail links and the crank links, respectively. Pedals are fixed to the pedal links and follow stable motion paths to enable easy operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2015
    Assignee: Healthstream Taiwan Inc.
    Inventor: Chun-Ting Chen
  • Patent number: 8926478
    Abstract: An elliptical trainer includes a base, a pair of foot-oriented elliptical mechanisms, and a pair of hand-oriented elliptical mechanisms. The base is anteriorly provided with a frame having a first axle and a second axle. The first and second axles are parallel and spaced apart by a distance. The foot-oriented elliptical mechanisms flank the frame and include a revolving assembly pivotally disposed at the first axle and adapted to enable the foot-oriented elliptical mechanisms to revolve relative to the first axle. The hand-oriented elliptical mechanisms flank the frame and include a reversing assembly pivotally disposed at the second axle. The revolving assembly and the reversing assembly revolve in opposite directions. The hand-oriented and foot-oriented elliptical mechanisms enable a user's hands and feet to revolve in the same direction and follow closed paths, respectively. Hence, the user can exercise ergonomically and work different muscle groups.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Dyaco International Inc.
    Inventors: Hsuan-Fu Huang, Shih-Wei Liu
  • Publication number: 20150005139
    Abstract: An exercise slide board is disclosed having a main board, a pair of backstops and a floor grip device. The main board has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is smooth and low friction to allow a user wearing low-friction footwear to easily slide across the board. The first and second backstops are positioned at or near a first end of the main board and a second end of the main board, respectively. The first and second backstops may have a base surface configured to abut against the top surface of the main board. The first and second backstops may also have a strike surface facing toward a center of the main board and extending away from the top surface of the main board at an angle away from the center of the board. The floor grip device is affixed on the bottom surface of the main board. The floor grip device is configured to grip both a hard flooring surface and a carpeted flooring surface. A non-slip mesh may be used.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2014
    Publication date: January 1, 2015
    Inventors: Lacey Bruschke, Erin Wathen, Richard Green
  • Patent number: 8915825
    Abstract: An adjustable stepping structure for aerobic exercise is disclosed having a platform and a plurality of support elements. The support elements include a downwardly arcuate notch or channel for receiving a sidewall or endwall of the platform, allowing the platform to be arranged in multiple angled orientations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Indian Industries, Inc.
    Inventor: Philip Elpers
  • Patent number: 8905901
    Abstract: A device allows an individual the ability to easily adjust the resistance to perform pushing and pulling exercises in multiple directions. The device allows the individual the ability to exercise at variable levels of intensity with a simple adjustment. The amount of ballast weight may be adjusted to offer additional levels of rolling resistance. The device may be set to operate either in a straight line, or in multiple directions. The device may use pneumatic tires, in a three-wheel design, which permit the device to be used on multiple surfaces and allows for ease of maneuverability during use. Unlike current systems, which do not allow for pushing or pulling at varied heights, the device has a handle bar that may change its height with a simple adjustable locking mechanism that incorporates a counterbalance system to allow for ease of movement of a force arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventors: Thomas Stewart, Paul Lando
  • Patent number: 8905899
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a weight-bearing health equipment system for use with a user, the user being within the middle 90th percentile of dimensions of a user class. The weight-bearing health equipment system includes a fitness equipment base having a plate having a periphery and extending from a front end to a back end. The weight-bearing health equipment system further includes a framework connected to the plate including a first pair of elongated members, a second pair of elongated members, and a third pair of elongated members connected to the first and second pair of elongated members. The first pair elongated members are adapted to prevent contact with the user when the user enters, exits, or engages the system. The third pair elongated members are adapted to be outside the ergonomic sweep of the user's arms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Assignee: Hansen Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Dale Scott Hansen
  • Patent number: 8882640
    Abstract: An improved treadmill includes a pedestal, arm stand, drag wheel, two swinging rods and pedals, a stride regulating mechanism, and two elbow-type drive connecting rods. The arm stand is set vertically onto the pedestal's mounting surface. The drag wheel is pivoted axially onto the pedestal through a vertical framework. A mandrel is set transversely onto the center of the drag wheel. Two swinging rods have the pivotal end pivoted onto the pedestal and located at a spacing on two sides of the drag wheel. Two pedals are separately set onto the swinging ends of two swinging rods. Two elbow-type drive connecting rods are linked separately to the mandrel and two swinging rods of the drag wheel, and the stride regulating mechanism is set between two swinging rods. The treadmill has less driving members, lower manufacturing and assembly cost and better driving performance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 11, 2014
    Inventor: Yung-Sung Yeh
  • Patent number: 8876668
    Abstract: A selectively inclining hiking exercise apparatus supports a user ambulating thereon. The selectively inclining hiking exercise apparatus includes a support base and a treadbase that selectively inclines with respect to the support base. The treadbase includes a motor for driving an endless belt upon which the user ambulates. The treadbase also includes a magnetic braking assembly for regulating the speed of the endless belt to prevent the endless belt from moving at a rate that is faster than the rate at which the treadbase motor is driving the endless belt. The magnetic braking assembly includes a magnet that selectively moves relative to the treadbase flywheel along a threaded lead screw to provide the braking force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Assignee: ICON IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick W. Hendrickson, Greg W. Law, Rodney L. Hammer, Paul C. Ricks, Darren C. Ashby
  • Patent number: 8876661
    Abstract: A multi-functional exercise machine, whose console has a transformation bearing and can be converted between a central control panel and an exercise workstation, so that the exercise machine can be used not only for intensive exercise but also for moderate exercise while working or entertaining at the same time. The exercise workstation has an arm support and a computer desk for a user to efficiently work with a personal computer free of distractions while doing exercise. The arm support is specially designed to minimize upper body movements. A supporting assembly for the console is specially designed to minimize vibration and shaking during exercise. The equipment can further comprise a force adjustable body support to decrease load by supporting predetermined amount of weight, so that a user can do exercise longer while working with a computer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 4, 2014
    Inventor: Zhenyu Lu
  • Patent number: 8870716
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a base, an axle rotationally supported on the base and two cranks connected to the axle. The cranks are rotational synchronously with the axle. A drive wheel unit includes an active wheel provided on the axle so that the active wheel is rotational synchronously with the cranks. A passive wheel unit includes a load wheel supported on the axle so that the load wheel is rotational relative to the axle and a passive connected to the load wheel so that the passive wheel is rotational synchronously with the load wheel. A step-up device includes a shaft rotationally supported on the base and small and large wheels connected to the shaft so that they are rotational synchronously. The small wheel is connected to the active wheel so that they are rotational together. The large wheel is connected to the passive wheel so that they are rotational together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Assignee: Dyaco International, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Murray, Kuang-Shiung Kao
  • Patent number: 8864631
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical motion of a foot supporting member. A foot supporting linkage is movably connected between a rocker and a crank in such a manner that the foot supporting member moves through paths of motion which are fixed, adjustable or variable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Inventors: Kenneth W Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 8864639
    Abstract: A balance board adapted for riding rail-to-rail, preferably so that at least a portion of a rider's feet will be placed on the board over the elongated roller. The balance board includes an elongated, planar board having a length that exceeds a width. The balance board further includes two pair of stops mounted to an underside of the board, each pair of stops being mounted near opposite ends of the board, and each stop of the pair of stops being mounted near opposite sides of the board. The balance board further includes a traction region between each stop of each pair of stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: GoofBoard Products, LLC
    Inventor: Armin Brown
  • Patent number: 8864627
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a manually operated treadmill adapted to generate electrical power comprising a treadmill frame, a running belt supported upon the treadmill frame and adapted for manual rotation, and an electrical power generator mechanically interconnected to the running belt and adapted to convert the manual rotational motion of the running belt into electrical power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 21, 2014
    Assignee: Woodway USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas G. Bayerlein, Vance E. Emons, Nicholas Oblamski
  • Patent number: 8858401
    Abstract: A training apparatus for a Nordic walker has an elongated pole whose lower end carries at least one wheel having a freewheel permitting rolling of the wheel on the surface only in a forward travel direction. A forearm rest is freely pivotal on an upper end of the pole and defines with the pole an angle increasing on forward rolling of the wheel from a position behind the athlete to a position in front of the athlete as the arm in the rest swings forward in the travel direction. A handgrip fixed on a front end of the forearm rest is gripped by a hand of the forearm in the rest and pivots with the forearm rest. A spring braced between the rest and the pole and pivotally biases the rest so as to increase the inclination angle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Inventor: Georg H. Kaupe
  • Patent number: 8858402
    Abstract: An exercise slide board is disclosed having a main board, a pair of backstops and a floor grip device. The main board has a top surface and a bottom surface. The top surface is smooth and low friction to allow a user wearing low-friction footwear to easily slide across the board. The first and second backstops are positioned at or near a first end of the main board and a second end of the main board, respectively. The first and second backstops may have a base surface configured to abut against the top surface of the main board. The first and second backstops may also have a strike surface facing toward a center of the main board and extending away from the top surface of the main board at an angle away from the center of the board. The floor grip device is affixed on the bottom surface of the main board. The floor grip device is configured to grip both a hard flooring surface and a carpeted flooring surface. A non-slip mesh may be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Obsidian Products, LLC
    Inventors: Lacey Bruschke, Erin Wathen, Richard Green
  • Patent number: 8858407
    Abstract: An athlete training apparatus includes a platform, a force redirecting device that is mounted on the platform, an elastic member, a first user coupler and a second user coupler. The elastic member has a first end and an opposite second end and is engaged with the force redirecting device. The first user coupler is coupled to the first end of the elastic member and is also configured to be worn by a first individual. The second user coupler is coupled to the second end of the elastic member and is configured to be worn by a second individual. When the first individual stands in the standing area and when the second individual applies a force to the elastic member, the force redirecting device redirects a portion of the force to the second user coupler so that a force having a downward vertical component is applied to the first individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 14, 2014
    Assignee: Speed Tracs America LLC
    Inventor: Matt Thompson
  • Patent number: 8827872
    Abstract: The subject matter discloses a bicycle device capable of functioning as an upright bicycle and a recumbent bicycle using one seat. The bicycle device according may comprise a seat, a body, a wheel operated by the user of the exercising device and a directing rod connecting the body and the seat. Such that movement of the directing rod allows positioning the seat in front position used for upright bicycle and rear position used for recumbent bicycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Inventors: Ran Tamari, Herzel Frenkel
  • Publication number: 20140243156
    Abstract: A platform assembly includes a lower box, which is supported at the corners on inflatable feet, and a platform which is tiltable relative to the lower box by a lifter mechanism inside the box. The platform assembly is universally usable to support exercise equipment, in particular exercise bicycles such as spinning cycles. A complete studio may be outfitted by supporting each of a multitude of exercise cycles on a universal platform. A screen display in front of the cycles plays a moving picture of a trip, which is emulated by the participants in the exercise and workout routine. The platform is raised and lowered, as well as tilted, in synchronicity with the display. On raising the front of the platform, which represents an incline in the travel path, the resistance of the bicycle is increased.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2014
    Publication date: August 28, 2014
    Applicant: VirtuRide LLC
    Inventor: OMER COHEN
  • Patent number: 8814766
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for exercising using an apparatus that includes an upper assembly, equipped with pedal platforms or a snowboard attachment, which is pivotally attached to a lower frame assembly. The lower frame assembly includes ski pole attachments that enable a user to maintain balance while using the apparatus. When the user stands on the pedals, elastic members coupled to the lower frame assembly and the upper frame assembly maintain level of the upper assembly while also providing some resistance to lateral movement. As the user shifts weight to simulate downhill skiing, the resistance by the elastic members, and an adjustable brake component, provide strength and core exercises similar to skiing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 26, 2014
    Inventor: John A. Scimone
  • Patent number: 8808152
    Abstract: An exercise machine that facilitates exercises for a user's abdominal area, inner and outer thigh areas, upper body, and back areas includes a frame and a plurality of height adjustable legs which allow a user to selectively provide a comfortable height or inclined surface for personal exercise. The apparatus further includes a movable sliding platform assembly providing adjustable resistance. A pair of knee pads is pivotally affixed to the movable platform assembly and allows independent motioning in respective arcuate paths to exercise the user's oblique muscles. When the knee pads are motioned separately, the apparatus exercises the user's inner thigh, outer thigh, and stomach muscles. Additionally, the movable features of the apparatus enable a user to exercise various other specific body areas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Inventor: Trudy R. Midgett
  • Patent number: 8808148
    Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine includes a base support structure adapted to be positioned on a support surface. The machine includes first and second reciprocating foot supports, each foot support being movably linked to the base support structure. Additionally, a ramp assembly is situated on the base support structure, the ramp assembly having first and second guide rails for guiding the respective second ends of the first and second foot supports such that the foot supports move in an elliptical path when the elliptical exercise machine is operating. Moreover, a first support member is linked to the base support structure, wherein the first support member is pivotably linked to the ramp assembly at a point above the base support structure. Furthermore, a lift mechanism is linked on a first end to the base support structure and pivotably linked on a second end to the ramp assembly above the base support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Icon IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott Watterson, William Dalebout, Keith Taylor, Robert Alleman
  • Patent number: 8801582
    Abstract: A treadmill includes a tread platform having two longitudinal frame bars, a swing unit pivotally mounted at the bottom side of the tread platform, and two inclination angle adjustment blocks. Each inclination angle adjustment block has a core shaft defining an axis line, and a plurality of bearing faces connected to one another and respectively disposed in parallel to the axis line and adapted for selectively supporting the tread platform on the ground. Each bearing face defines with the axis line a respective different vertical distance. The core shafts of the inclination angle adjustment blocks are pivotally coupled to the swing unit to support the inclination angle adjustment blocks at an outer side relative to the longitudinal frame bars of the tread platform. Thus, the treadmill allows manual multi-angle adjustment of the angle of inclination of the tread platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: Dyaco International Inc.
    Inventors: Hsuan-Fu Huang, Shih-Wei Liu
  • Patent number: 8795139
    Abstract: This invention provides a lower-limb off-axis movement training apparatus, which is mounted on the movement part of a sagittal plane exercise machine and allows the user to perform off-axis movement training during sagittal plane functional movements. The said apparatus for the lower limb off-axis training consists of a base, an off-axis movement generating part mounted on the base, and a foot container supported by the off-axis movement generating part. The said off-axis movement generating part comprising at least one of the following two: (1) off-axis pivoting generating part, which generates the pivoting movement of the foot container; (2) off-axis sliding generating part, which generates the sliding movement of the foot container. A feedback training system including the said training apparatus is provided. While the user performs sagittal plane movements of the lower limbs, the said system provides off-axis movement training integrated with the sagittal plane movements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Rehabtek LLC
    Inventors: Li-Qun Zhang, Yupeng Ren
  • Patent number: 8790222
    Abstract: A treadmill having a belt assembly allows a user the walk or run in any direction. A single helically wound belt over a flattened torus is powered by two independent drive systems. The drive systems are controlled by a combination of infrared cameras and a physical harness system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Inventor: George Burger
  • Publication number: 20140206506
    Abstract: A pedal exerciser includes a shaft rotatably mounted to a shaft coupling portion of a base. Two pedal rods are mounted on two ends of the shaft. A non-automatic mechanism is mounted to the base and releasably coupled to the shaft. An automatic mechanism is mounted to the base and releasably coupled to the shaft. The automatic mechanism includes a power source. A switching mechanism includes a driving wheel coupled to the shaft. The driving wheel is mounted around the shaft and located between the non-automatic mechanism and the automatic mechanism. The driving wheel is movable between the non-automatic mechanism and the automatic mechanism to control engagement/disengagement of the driving wheel with/from the non-automatic mechanism and the automatic mechanism, allowing switching between a non-automatic mode and an automatic mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2013
    Publication date: July 24, 2014
    Inventor: Chien-Hsiang Huang
  • Patent number: 8777817
    Abstract: A convertible push and pull exercise machine capable of providing a user with a total body workout using resistance in two lines of motion. The exercise machine can include a base, an adjustable secured seat positioned on the base, and an arm assembly including opposed first and second arm members each having a first end and a second end. The first end of each of the opposed first and second arm members can pivotally be attached to the base. Additionally, the exercise machine can include a resistance arrangement capable of providing a resistance to each of the opposed first and second arm members in at least two lines of motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventors: Ian Finestein, Jeffrey Raimo
  • Publication number: 20140194252
    Abstract: The present invention provides an exercise device having a chamber maintained in an airtight condition and a seal member that can be easily attached and detached by a user. The exercise device of the present invention includes a chamber having an opening through which a user can enter or exit the chamber, a seal member for closing the opening of the chamber in an airtight manner, a pressure control unit for pressurizing the inside of the chamber, and exercise equipment housed inside the chamber, wherein an engagement ring is provided in the opening of the chamber, the seal member includes a skirt to be worn by the user and an elastic tube, the tube being attached to the outer peripheral edge of the skirt, making the outer peripheral edge of the skirt be in contact with the engagement ring, and the skirt being in close contact with the engagement ring due to pressurization of the inside of the chamber.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2012
    Publication date: July 10, 2014
    Applicant: SHOWA DENKI CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Takeshi Arimoto, Yuzo Takenaka, Tomoki Hotei, Shinya Adachi
  • Patent number: 8764615
    Abstract: An electromagnetic resistance apparatus includes a support frame, a metallic conductive plate rotatably mounted on the support frame, and at least one magnetically controlled mechanism mounted on the support frame and aligning with the metallic conductive plate. Thus, the electromagnetic resistance apparatus has a modularized structure so that the electromagnetic resistance apparatus is mounted on a rehabilitation or exercising equipment easily and quickly so as to shorten the time and save the cost of assembly of the electromagnetic resistance apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Preventative Medical Health Care Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Shih-Jung Wang
  • Patent number: 8764616
    Abstract: Described is a bicycle trainer with a hill training apparatus that enables bicyclists to simulate uphill riding (incline), downhill riding (decline), and hill resistance, or lack thereof. The hill training apparatus also provides for correct body positioning while riding uphill or downhill and with or without resistance. Riding on a trainer with correct body positioning provides for improved training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Pro-Climb, LLC
    Inventor: Emily L. Cooper
  • Patent number: 8764609
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a frame, an adjustable seat assembly, a means for slidably adjusting the seat assembly axially along the frame, a means for pivotally adjusting the seat assembly between a generally upright position and a recumbent position, an adjustable resistance assembly which includes rotatable pedals, and a display panel with means for providing omnidirectional positionability of the display panel. The exercise machine allows a user thereof to simultaneously perform crunching exercises and actively engage the adjustable resistance assembly in order to allow the user to reach the highest, optimized levels of cardiovascular fitness and calorie burning during a physical exercise interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Inventor: Issam A. Elahmadie
  • Patent number: 8758206
    Abstract: A balance board adapted for riding rail-to-rail, preferably so that at least a portion of a rider's feet will be placed on the board over the elongated tube. The balance board includes an elongated, planar board having a length that exceeds a width. The balance board further includes two pair of stops mounted to an underside of the board, each pair of stops being mounted near opposite ends of the board, and each stop of the pair of stops being mounted near opposite sides of the board. The balance board further includes a traction region between each stop of each pair of stop.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 24, 2014
    Assignee: GoofBoard Products, LLC
    Inventor: Armin Brown
  • Patent number: 8753252
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a substantially flat, rigid platform for supporting a user during exercise. An inflatable tubular support having an upper portion with a first radial outside diameter, and a lower portion with a second radial outside diameter that is greater than the first radial outside diameter, is coupled to the platform by a fastener. The tubular support defines a central opening that communicates between the platform and a support surface. The platform includes a venting structure for releasing air from the central opening during use. The inflatable support includes an intermediate portion between the upper portion and the lower portion of the tubular support, the intermediate portion including a support feature to restrain the intermediate portion from radial expansion induced by an air pressure internal to the integral inflatable support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: iStep Global, LLC
    Inventors: John Cole, David C. Pratson, Tien Le, Axel Mnich, Jeff Harlan
  • Patent number: 8747285
    Abstract: A training and/or rehabilitation device in which a walking or running treadmill (2) is arranged in a water tank with flowing water (9). To be able to use the device regardless of the design of the water tank, the walking or running treadmill (2) can be used together with a stream generator (3) as a unit in the water tank or in open water.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Inventor: Georg Hof
  • Patent number: 8740755
    Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a base frame with two supporting frames, two swing sleeves each pivotally connected with one supporting frame, two sliding arms each having a top portion slidably inserted through one swing sleeve and a bottom portion extending transversely inwardly and coupled with a treadle, two swing arms each having an end pivotally coupled with the base frame, and two sliding sleeves each axially slidably sleeved onto one swing arm and pivotally connected with the bottom portion of one sliding arm through a pivot. A rotational shaft is transversely and rotationally coupled with the base frame. Two links each have an end vertically coupled with one of two ends of the rotational shaft, and an opposite end pivotally connected with a lower portion of one of the sliding sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R & D Center
    Inventors: Chun-Ho Chen, Chia-Hsun Chuang
  • Patent number: 8740754
    Abstract: An adaptive exercise device provides for a foot motion in which the vertical component of the path of foot travel is mechanically decoupled from the fore-aft component of the path of foot travel so that a user may selectably control the ratio of these two components during the use of the device. The adaptive exercise device includes foot links which are supported on a track for motion therealong. The links are mechanically interconnected so that when a first link moves in a first direction along the track, the second link moves in an equal and opposite direction. The apparatus further includes a vertical motion control system which raises and lowers portions of each of the foot links along a vertical path of travel independent of their position along the track.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Larry D. Miller
  • Patent number: 8740753
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame, a resistance lever pivotably attached to the frame, a resistance engagement member moveably attached to the resistance lever, the resistance engagement member being positionable at a plurality of attachment points on the resistance lever, and a resistance element disposed adjacent to the resistance engagement member. The resistance element includes a deflection member having a first end and a second end, a first anchor attached to and positionally fixing the first end of the deflection member, and a second anchor attached to and positionally fixing the second end of the deflection member. When a force is input to the resistance lever, the resistance lever pivots about the pivot point and the resistance engagement member transversely engages the deflection member. The apparent resistance provided by the resistance element is adjusted by positionally adjusting the resistance engagement member along the attachment points relative to the anchors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: ICON IP, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Olson, William Dalebout, Steven M. Shorten
  • Patent number: 8740756
    Abstract: An exercising apparatus and method. The apparatus has an endless sport mat with an outer layer made of elastic material and an inner layer made of a flexible abrasion resisting material, horizontally spaced rollers about which the endless mat is looped, including front and rear driving rollers, and at least three supporting rollers for supporting a selected middle body area of a user, and a rigid frame for housing the rollers. During three stages of advancement of the selected middle body area, (1) a portion of the endless mat is depressed between first and second rollers, (2) the depressed mat portion rotates the first roller and the endless mat is manually driven, and (3) the selected middle body area is massaged by the second roller while performing a propelling movement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Painless Stretch
    Inventors: Dmitry Shabodyash, Evgeni Gofman
  • Patent number: 8740750
    Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a device for controlling and/or regulating a training and/or rehabilitation unit comprises a training and/or rehabilitation unit, a sensor unit having sensors for determining oxygen concentration and for determining carbon dioxide concentration, a control unit for the sensors, a microcontroller in the control unit for controlling the heating power of heating elements of the sensors, depending on breath flow volume, for maintaining constant sensor temperatures, and a resistance and/or braking arrangement of the training and/or rehabilitation unit that can be controlled and/or regulated based on a breathing gas composition determined by the sensor unit. The device can be used to increase endurance, preferably by way of altitude training.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Ulrich Jerichow
  • Patent number: 8734298
    Abstract: Stationary exercise machines having adjustable incline systems are disclosed herein. In one embodiment, for example, an elliptical exercise machine includes a system for adjusting the inclination of foot support guide tracks. The incline adjustment system can include a lift member that operates between the guide tracks and the floor on which the exercise machine is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Dyaco International, Inc.
    Inventor: Brian Murray
  • Patent number: 8721504
    Abstract: A cushioning mechanism of a treadmill is interposed with an auxiliary plate between a base frame and the running board. The cushioning mechanism includes two hanging support pieces, two hanging swing pieces, and a flexible elastic element. When the running board is subject to a downward force and sinks, the flexible elastic element will be pulled and expanded externally. When the external force is eliminated, the running board will be returned back to its original position by the self-restoring ability of the flexible elastic element. In this way, an expected and optimal cushioning effect is achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Leao Wang