Utilizing Fluid Resistance Patents (Class 482/53)
  • Publication number: 20020177509
    Abstract: Aerobic step apparatus comprised of stacked interfitting components simulating a unitary structure from which a plurality of different height steps can be selectively assembled. By selectively combining the different components when disassembled from their unitary structure, at least seven steps of different heights can be readily formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 30, 2001
    Publication date: November 28, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph L. Rodgers, M. Nicol Rodgers
  • Publication number: 20020169053
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a stepper with additional functions to strengthen the arms and the breast which includes a stepper and a pull rod both of which are fitted to a base. The stepper has two treads each of which has a front assembly pivotably connected to the base. The pull rod is pivotably connected to upright rods at front end of the base. Moreover, it is coupled with a movable handle at top thereof and a connecting rod at bottom thereof. The other end of the connecting rod is pivotably connected to the front assembly of the stepper. Accordingly, the pull rod, the connecting rod and the front assembly are coupled with one another. A position-limiting bar is inserted through the front end extending from the outer side of the upright rods.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 14, 2001
    Publication date: November 14, 2002
    Inventor: Gordon Chen
  • Patent number: 6435073
    Abstract: A combination of an outer casing and a hydraulic cylinder includes a tubular and transparent tube which has two open ends and the hydraulic cylinder is received in the outer casing. A fitting and a piston rod on two ends of the hydraulic cylinder respectively extend from the two open ends of the outer casing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Chen
  • Publication number: 20020094915
    Abstract: A step exerciser has a base, two pedal assemblies, a segmented vertical bar, a handle and a seat. The segmented vertical bar comprises an upper bar and a middle bar and is connected to the base. The handle is adjustably attached to the upper bar. The seat is foldably attached to the upper bar. With such an exerciser, the handle and the seat can be respectively adjusted relative to the upper bar, such that the step exerciser can be adjusted for use in different positions, and a user can use the step exerciser in a standing or a sitting position. The use of the step exerciser becomes more versatile.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: David Lin, Chih-Liang Chen
  • Patent number: 6419611
    Abstract: An exercise device having two chambers, underlying two elastic membrane portions, in a position to closely support above the ground, the left and right foot respectively, of a user. A support structure such as a housing for the first and second membrane portions permit raising and lowering, as by shifting body weight, of the left and right foot in a stair stepping action, preferably without raising each foot from contact with the membrane portions to elastically stretch the membrane portions in succession. A fluid underlies the first and second elastic membrane portions. The fluid preferably is displaced by the stretching of each membrane portion and in the preferred embodiments, it acts with the membrane portions to support the body of a user in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: FitnessLab, LLC
    Inventors: James H. Levine, Douglas L. Sheadel, Peter A. Latham
  • Patent number: 6387014
    Abstract: A foldable body building device is formed of a first connection rod mechanism and a second connection rod mechanism. The first connection rod mechanism is formed of an upright rod, a handlebar support rod, two tilted support rods, and a connection rod of a base. The second connection rod mechanism is formed of an upright rod, a handlebar support rod, two damping pressure cylinders, and two swivel rods. The first connection rod mechanism is used to support the body building device in the unfolded state. The second connection rod mechanism is intended to bring about the linking action of the body building device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Inventor: Fen-Ying Lai
  • Publication number: 20020002102
    Abstract: A foldable body building device is formed of a first connection rod mechanism and a second connection rod mechanism. The first connection rod mechanism is formed of an upright rod, a handlebar support rod, two titled support rods, and a connection rod of a base. The second connection rod mechanism is formed of an upright rod, a handlebar support rod, two damping pressure cylinders, and two swivel rods. The first connection rod mechanism is used to support the body building device in the unfolded state. The second connection rod mechanism is intended to bring about the linking action of the body building device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2001
    Publication date: January 3, 2002
    Inventor: Fen-Ying Lai
  • Patent number: 6315697
    Abstract: A stepping exerciser includes a rotatable member received in a tubular member which is located on a base. Two slots are defined diametrically through the tubular member and two extensions extending from the rotatable member extend through the slots. Two pedals each are pivotally connected to respective one of two arms extending from the tubular member and two pushing rods extend from the two pedals. Each pushing rod has a block which contacts the extension of the rotatable member. Each pedal has a cylinder connected thereto and the other end of the cylinder is connected to the base. The blocks each have a plurality of convex portions so as to adjust a distance between the pushing rod and the extension and to adjust the stroke of the cylinders.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 6306108
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes a cycle assembly mounted in a vessel containing water. The cycle assembly includes a seat and a pivotally mounted handlebar on each side of the seat. A pair of pedals is rotationally mounted with each pedal connected to a respective handlebars by a linkage for transmitting the motion of the handlebars and pedals to each other. The motor drive assembly is connected to the pedals for causing rotation to the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2001
    Inventor: Brian R. Butler
  • Patent number: 6296597
    Abstract: The present invention concerns a sports or exercise device comprising a mounting frame and a parallelogram having left and right longitudinal bars and upper and lower cross bars, wherein the longitudinal bars are movable vertically and parallelly to one another against at least one resistance element or weight. A left hand grip and a left treading surface are assigned to the left longitudinal bar, and a right hand grip and a right treading surface are assigned to the right longitudinal bar, such that the movement of the parallelogram results in a forward movement of the left hand grip and left treading surface, or a backward motion of the right hand grip and the right treading surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2001
    Inventors: Dirk Schöne, Rados Vitorovic
  • Patent number: 6224515
    Abstract: A stepping exerciser includes a base having an upright tubular member disposed thereon. The tubular member has lower left and right portions formed with a respective circumferentially extending slot, and upper left and right portions having a respective pivot arm extending radially therefrom. A rotary member is disposed inside the tubular member and is rotatable relative to the tubular member about an axis of the tubular member. The rotary member has a pair of force transmitting rods that extend outwardly and respectively of the tubular member through the slots. Each of a pair of pivot couplers is sleeved rotatably on a respective pivot arm, and has a movement driving rod that extends downwardly therefrom and that abuts against a respective force transmitting rod. Each of left and right pedal arms has a front end connected to a respective one of the pivot couplers. Each of a pair of resistance cylinders interconnects the base and the rear end of a respective pedal arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 6206806
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a pair of elongated reciprocating members. The reciprocating members are supported for rotational motion about a pivot axis and the forward ends of the reciprocating members reciprocate back and forth linearly along a motion restrictor forcing near linear motion. The combination of these two motions by the reciprocating members permit a user's feet to travel along conical orelliption motion path of travel. Resistance to rotation of a cranking means is provided and may be selectively altered by the user. At lower inclinations/elevations of the restrictor, the stepping motion may resemble cross-country skiing. At progressively higher angles of inclination or elevations of the restrictor, the stepping motions may simulate walking, jogging, running, climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Inventor: Yong S. Chu
  • Patent number: 6179752
    Abstract: A linkage device for a stepping and swinging exerciser, the stepping and swinging exerciser including a base, a transversely disposed handle, a stepper, and a swinging linkage device. The swinging linkage device is secured at a front end of the base. The stepper has a pair of foot pedals and a pair of hydraulic cylinders pivotally provided on a securing shaft and a support shaft of a support body of the swinging linkage device. The support body of the swinging linkage device accommodates therein an upright bar and a bearing. The bearing is secured to the base. The upright bar passes through a shaft hole of the support body. A steering rod is disposed on one side of the upright bar. The upright bar has a top end projecting from the support body and has a generally U-shaped mounting seat for mounting of the handle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2001
    Inventor: Shao-Tuan Chang
  • Patent number: 6132339
    Abstract: A treading fitness trainer with a vertical rod on which a plurality of pivoted shafts are respectively disposed in order to connect the vertical rod with a handgrip connecting rod, an upper toothed disk, a lower toothed disk, a resistance device and a pedal connecting rod. The upper toothed disk and the handgrip connecting rod are connected with each other, and the upper and lower toothed disks are engaged with each other. The lower toothed disk is pivoted with a pull rod at one side which is connected to the pedal connecting rod, the other side of said lower toothed disk being connected to an operation shaft of a resistance device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
  • Patent number: 6102833
    Abstract: An exercise device comprises a base, two pedaling sets, and two damping apparatus. The base is formed of a front cross rod, a rear cross rod, a connection rod connecting the front cross rod and the rear cross rod, and a rotatable shaft fastened pivotally at one end thereof with the center of the front cross rod. The two pedaling sets are formed of two curved support rods and two pedals mounted on the support rods, and are fastened pivotally with two sides of the rotatable shaft. The pedaling sets turn along with the rotatable shaft. The base is provided with two arcuate protrusions located at two sides of the connection point of the front cross rod and the connection rod. The two support rods of the pedaling sets are respectively provided with a guide pillar. When the two pedaling sets are moved up and down, the arcuate protrusions are pressed against by the two guide pillars of the two support rods of the pedaling sets, thereby causing the two pedaling sets to turn sideways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2000
    Inventor: James Chen
  • Patent number: 6045489
    Abstract: An exercise device having two chambers, underlying two elastic membrane portions, in a position to closely support above the ground, the left and right foot respectively, of a user. A support structure such as a housing for the first and second membrane portions permit raising and lowering, as by shifting body weight, of the left and right foot in a stair stepping action, preferably without raising each foot from contact with the membrane portions to elastically stretch the membrane portions in succession. A fluid underlies the first and second elastic membrane portions. The fluid preferably is displaced by the stretching of each membrane portion and in the preferred embodiments, it acts with the membrane portions to support the body of a user in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: PowerSource LLC
    Inventors: James H. Levine, Douglas L. Sheadel, Peter A. Latham
  • Patent number: 5984841
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided including a frame and a pair of pedals pivotally coupled to the frame in a side-by-side relationship. A resistance mechanism is included for urging the pedals upwardly. Further, a fulcrum and rod combination is provided for ensuring that only one pedal is capable of being raised at a time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: Mariamma John
  • Patent number: 5947873
    Abstract: A climber includes a driven bar revolvably supported in an upright support frame on a base frame and turned back and forth when two pedal bars are alternatively stepped up and down, a swivel holder revolvably supported on the driven bar and spaced between the upright support frame and a control block at the top of the driven bar to hold a handlebar unit, and an adjustment bar mounted in the swivel holder and moved between a first position where the swivel holder is turned with the driven bar, a second position where the swivel holder can be freely turned about the driven bar, and a third position where the swivel holder is fixed to the upright support frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventors: Leonard Sands, Johnson Kuo
  • Patent number: 5906562
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a post having a lower portion rotatably secured to a base. Two pulleys are rotatably supported on the base. Two foot supports are pivotally supported on the base and are coupled to the post by one or two cables which are engaged over the pulleys and the post, such that the foot supports may rotate the post via the pulleys and the cables and such that the user may twist his body while stepping with the foot supports. Two actuators are coupled to the foot supports for applying the resistive force against the foot supports.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Ting Fung Lin
  • Patent number: 5897459
    Abstract: A longitudinal frame supports a seat whose longitudinal position on the frame is adjustable. A pair of footbeams are mounted on either side of the forward end of the frame near the floor and extend generally upwardly. The footbeams independently pivot on the frame so that the user can operate them in an alternating reciprocating fashion. Pivotal movement of the footbeams by the user is resisted, thereby requiring the user to expend energy in operating the device. The footbeams are preferably interconnected so that their respective movements are coordinated. In alternative embodiments, the footbeams pivot about a point just below the seat. The seat can also be adapted to recline. The footbeams can also be replaced by a crank with footpedals that are used to drive a flywheel and a generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: TNWK Corporation
    Inventors: Theodore G. Habing, Ronald S. Gibson, Douglas J. Habing
  • Patent number: 5888175
    Abstract: A step exercising machine including a pivotable mounting rack turned around an axial tube on an arched bar of a base frame and a transverse retaining rod disposed on the arched bar, two transverse mounting shafts bilaterally disposed to the pivotable rack, two pedals respectively turned about two opposite ends of a first mounting shaft and supported on a respective hydraulic cylinder and respectively pushed against the retaining rod by a respective downward driving rod, wherein the pivotable rack is turned around the axial tube of the arched bar forwards and backwards alternatively when the pedals are alternatively moved up and down, causing the pedals to oscillate leftwards and rightwards alternatively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Major Chang
  • Patent number: 5888176
    Abstract: An exerciser includes a pair of foot pedals pivotally secured to a base at a pivot axle, and a wheel rotatably secured on the upper portion of the base at a pivot shaft. A cable couples the wheel to the foot pedals for allowing the wheel to be rotated by the foot pedals. A post is pivotally secured to the pivot shaft and includes a handle. A pin may selectively secure the post to the wheel for allowing the post to be rotated in concert with the wheel when the pin secures the post to the wheel. An actuator may apply a resistive force against the foot pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Hui Kuei Kuo
  • Patent number: 5803880
    Abstract: A stepper/climber machine includes a frame supported on a base with the frame being comprised of first and second hollow columns connected to a hollow cross-beam. Within the first and second hollow columns, there are first and second rigid struts, respectively. Each of the rigid struts has a foot pedal and handgrip fixed thereto. The rigid struts are connected by a cable which is trained through the hollow cross-beam so that as one strut moves upwardly, the other strut moves downwardly, thereby raising one handgrip and pedal while allowing the other handgrip and pedal to lower. The first and second struts are connected to one another through a hydraulic circuit which includes a branched portion with legs having opposed one-way check valves in series with solenoid valves. A selector determines the lengths of the strokes by opening and closing the solenoid valves alternately so that fluid can only flow in one direction through the hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 1995
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Temple W. Allen
  • Patent number: 5800313
    Abstract: A skiing exercise apparatus, has an angled swinging seat at a fore end of a pedestal, on which are installed hydraulic cylinders and a pair of pedals which pull each other when treaded. Two handles are fitted to an upright axle in a socket at the fore end of the pedestal so that the user can hold the handles to exercise by swinging back and forth achieving the effect of body-building through imitating the exercise of skiing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Yu
  • Patent number: 5762587
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a frame, one or more levers pivotally attached to the frame for a user to move in the performance of exercise movements, at least one fluid cylinder connected between the frame and each lever(s) for offering resistance to the exercise movements, and means for adjustment of the resistance of the cylinder by changing the flow rate of fluid in a channel therein. In an illustrated embodiment, the flow rate of the cylinder is varied by rotation of a gear collar affixed to the cylinder, and the adjustment means includes a gear engaged with the gear collar(s) of the cylinder(s), a drive shaft affixed to the gear, and drive means operably associated with the drive shaft. Preferred drive means comprise a motor connected to an electronic controller; however, an alternative embodiment employs a mechanical drive linkage to a knob or crank. Also described are stairclimbing exercise machines incorporating the adjustable-resistance cylinder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1998
    Assignee: Icon Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: William T. Dalebout, Carlo Ferrari
  • Patent number: 5746681
    Abstract: A non-impact exercise machine which can be used by people of all ages, requiring no special dexterity or athletic ability to perform and exerting minimal impact on the muscles and joints of the user, providing a light weight, collapsible, and affordable indoor exercise machine for simulating walking. One embodiment of the exercise machine comprises a support structure; and, right and left platforms for standing on by the use's right and left foot respectively in an approximately horizontal position; and, right and left linkage assemblies pivotably disposed on the support structure about a right and left upper pivot axis and the right and left platforms, the platforms movable in a fixed path below the right and left upper pivot axis; and, a resistance system for resisting the movement of the right and left platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1998
    Inventor: John W. Bull
  • Patent number: 5733232
    Abstract: A multi-purpose exercise machine comprises a frame unit, a sitting and treading unit, an arm rod unit, a pulley unit, a releasing unit, a back rest, and a seat. The frame unit has a bottom frame provided with a first support rod and a second support rod. The sitting and treading unit is fastened with the first support rod and the second support rod. The arm rod unit is fastened pivotally with the first support rod and the second support rod and is provided with grips. The arm rod unit is connected with the ropes of the pulley unit. The ropes are fastened with the releasing unit such that the arm rod unit and the sitting and treading unit are linked. The seat is provided with a main rod having a hooked rod engageable with the sitting and treading boards.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Inventor: Hank Hsu
  • Patent number: 5722922
    Abstract: An exercise machine has a base with an upright frame. A carriage is movable along the length of the frame and connectable thereto by a pin which registers with apertures formed in the frame. The pin is connected to a bridge with spans between cheek plates of the carriage. A lever structure and a butterfly exercise structure are pivotally secured to the carriage. Resistance modules are connectable to the carriage and the lever structure and the butterfly exercise structure to resist movement. A bench is provided for the user and is connected at one end to one frame. A stepper exercise assembly is also attached to the frame. A stepper has hydraulic resistance cylinders which include springs to urge the treadles in an upward direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1998
    Assignee: ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, Curt G. Bingham, S. Ty Measom
  • Patent number: 5718656
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus including a base structure comprising a fixed lower body exercise platform and a pair of elongated upper body exercising units is disclosed. The units are mounted to the base structure by mounting structure that enables the units to be moved by a user against a yielding resistance in any direction with respect to a center in conjunction with the user stepping onto or off of the platform in any direction while performing an exercise thereon. The elongated upper body exercising units preferably include two telescoping exercise poles to be grasped by opposite hands of the user and capable of both oscillating and reciprocating upper body exercising motion. A variable volume air chamber is defined in an annular gap between coaxially arranged inner and outer members of the telescoping exercise poles and a restricted air passage communicates with the air chamber.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Byrd, Robert W. McBride
  • Patent number: 5676623
    Abstract: A step exerciser including a base frame having a support, an adjustable wheel holder mounted in the support and holding a pulley, two rockers pivoted to the support at two opposite sides, two pedals having a respective front end respectively pivoted to the rockers, two hydraulic cylinders bilaterally pivoted to the base frame at the rear side, two guide rods pivotably connected between the pedals and the piston rods of the cylindrical cylinders, two links pivotably connected between the piston rods of the hydraulic cylinders and the rockers, and two actuating rods respectively turned about the connections between the links and the piston rods of the hydraulic cylinders and pivotably connected between the opposite sides of the support and two opposite ends of a steel cable, which is mounted on the pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 14, 1997
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Yu
  • Patent number: 5669856
    Abstract: An exerciser including a base having an extension portion upward extending from a top side of the base. A handle portion is disposed at top end of the extension portion. Two pedals are side by side disposed on rear side of the base and spaced by a predetermined distance. Each pedal is connected to the extension portion via a hydraulic cylinder. Each pedal is disposed with a first rotary shaft and a second rotary shaft. A rolling belt is drivingly wound around the first and second rollers. The first rotary shaft is disposed with a sprocket and a fly wheel. A chain is wound around the sprocket. Two ends of the chain are respectively secured to the base and the extension portion. When a user steps down the pedal, the sprocket is moved along the chain and the first and second rotary shafts as well as the rolling belt are driven to move toward the rear side of the user's foot, whereby the user is subject to a forward rushing force which makes the user have a feeling like running mountaineering or stairs climbing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 23, 1997
    Inventor: Chien-Hsing Liu
  • Patent number: 5658223
    Abstract: A longitudinal frame supports a seat whose longitudinal position on the frame is adjustable. A pair of footbeams are mounted on either side of the forward end of the frame near the floor and extend generally upwardly. The footbeams independently pivot on the frame so that the user can operate them in an alternating reciprocating fashion. Pivotal movement of the footbeams by the user is resisted, thereby requiring the user to expend energy in operating the device. The footbeams are preferably interconnected so that their respective movements am coordinated. In alternative embodiments, the footbeams pivot about a point just below the seat. The seat can also be adapted to recline, preferably at an angle greater than 30.degree. from the vertical. The footbeams can also be replaced by a crank with footpedals that are used to drive a flywheel and a generator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 19, 1997
    Assignee: Pacific Fitness Corporation
    Inventors: Theodore G. Habing, Ronald S. Gibson, Douglas J. Habing
  • Patent number: 5647826
    Abstract: An aquatic exercise and rehabilitation device includes an exercise cycle which is mounted in a tank or water holding vessel. The user would sit on a seat and the user's legs would be placed on pedals connected to the wheel. The wheel unit can be rotated from the force from the user or alternatively the rotational force could be imparted by a rotating drive surface which contacts the wheel unit. A particularly suitable form of rotating drive surface is a treadmill which optionally offers an alternative form of underwater exercise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 15, 1997
    Inventor: Brian R. Butler
  • Patent number: 5645512
    Abstract: A step exercising machine including a base frame having an upright support, a T-shaped steering rod mounted in the upright support, a first steering gear mounted on the upright support around the vertical rod section of the T-shaped steering rod, two pedals respectively turned about the two opposite ends of the T-shaped steering rod, a second steering gear and a third steering gear respectively mounted around the two opposite ends of the transverse top of T-shaped steering rod and meshed with the first steering gear at two opposite sides, a locating rod transversely coupled to the T-shaped steering rod at the bottom, and two hydraulic cylinders respectively coupled between the pedals and the two opposite ends of the locating rod, wherein the second steering gear and the third steering gear are alternatively turned relative to the first steering gear when the pedals are alternatively stepped up and down, thereby causing the pedals to oscillate leftwards and rightwards alternatively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 8, 1997
    Inventor: Hui-Nan Yu
  • Patent number: 5628709
    Abstract: An exerciser with combined stepping and twisting functions is provided. The exerciser includes a base, a tubular sleeve and a stepper. The base has an upright cylindrical body fixed thereto. The cylindrical body is provided with a pair of radially extending and diametrically opposite branches. The tubular sleeve is sleeved rotatably on the cylindrical body and is formed with a circumferentially extending opening to permit passage of the branches on the cylindrical body therethrough. The stepper includes a pair of spaced pedal arms, each of which has a front end pivoted to said tubular sleeve, and a rear end. Each of a pair of resistance cylinders interconnects the rear end of one of the pedal arms and the tubular sleeve. A pair of transmitting members are provided respectively on the front ends of the pedal arms. Each of the transmitting members engages a respective one of the branches on the cylindrical body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 13, 1997
    Inventor: Tsung-Yu Chen
  • Patent number: 5622527
    Abstract: A motivational exercise stepping machine has a pair of independently operable pivoting treadles for operation by a user's feet. Each treadle is connected to its own hydraulic cylinder device which provides resistance to downward movement of the treadle by a combination of fluid flow resistance and a biasing means. The treadle is biased upwardly by the biasing means. Fluid flow resistance is controlled to be less for upward movement than for downward movement of each treadle to permit the user to step at any desirable pace, yet motivate the user to maintain that pace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Assignees: Proform Fitness Products, Inc., ICON Health & Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott R. Watterson, Brad Ellis, William T. Dalebout
  • Patent number: 5595554
    Abstract: An exercise machine designed to condition the lower body comprising a pair of foot receiving platforms which may be established to travel along circular paths following coordinates in all three spacial dimensions--longitudinal, lateral, and vertical. The circular paths which the foot platforms travel along may also be established to be coplanar, inclined, counter rotating, and overlapping; while constraining the foot platforms which cyclically travel along the path to remain mutually parallel and at constant lateral separation. A flywheel and/or frictional resisting means may be incorporated as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 21, 1997
    Inventor: Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 5575739
    Abstract: An exercise device consists of a frame having an upright support member, upper and lower pivot levers pivotably mounted on the support member, first and second foot platforms pivotably mounted on the first and second end portions of the lower pivot lever, hand grips mounted on the first and second end portions of the upper pivot lever, and a resistance cylinder connected between the corresponding first end portions of the upper and lower pivot levers. The upright support is vertically adjustable to adjust the vertical height of the upper pivot lever. In use, the operator stands on the foot platforms, grasps the hand grips of the upper pivot lever, and reciprocates the feet and hands in a rocking, or see-saw type motion similar bicycling, rock climbing or stair climbing. The resistance cylinder comprises a hydraulic-type cylinder which provides resistance during reciprocating movement of the upper and lower pivot levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1996
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Inventors: Gary D. Piaget, Trace O. Gordon
  • Patent number: 5545111
    Abstract: A stepping machine including a base frame having an upright stub tube and an upright shaft, the upright stub tube having two horizontal axles and two connecting plates respectively turned about the horizontal axles, an upright post revolvably mounted on the upright stub tube and having a transverse handlebar at the top, a pedal support revolvably mounted on the upright shaft and coupled to the upright support in a parallel relation, two pedals respectively turned about a respective horizontal axle on the pedal support, and two hydraulic cylinders bilaterally connected between the pedal support and the free ends of the pedals, each pedal having a downward rod at the fixed end and coupled to one connecting plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 13, 1996
    Inventors: Mei-San Wang, Lee-Hwei Hsu
  • Patent number: 5527253
    Abstract: A combination twister and stepper device includes a stepper unit and a twister unit in combination with a common frame. The stepper unit has a pair of side by side steps, each of which is biased upwardly. The twister includes a turntable or disk on a pivotal mount. The stepper and twister are secured to a frame which includes a pair of pivotal poles. The stepper and twister may be used simultaneously while also using the poles or the stepper and twister may be selectively inactivated so that only one of the units could be used.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Assignee: William T. Wilkinson
    Inventors: William T. Wilkinson, John J. Nelson
  • Patent number: 5518470
    Abstract: An exercise device consists of a frame having an upright support member, upper and lower pivot levers pivotably mounted on the support member, first and second foot platforms pivotably mounted on the first and second end portions of the lower pivot lever, hand grips mounted on the first and second end portions of the upper pivot lever, and a resistance cylinder connected between the corresponding first end portions of the upper and lower pivot levers. The upright support is vertically adjustable to adjust the vertical height of the upper pivot lever. In use, the operator stands on the foot platforms, grasps the hand grips of the upper pivot lever, and reciprocates the feet and hands in a rocking, or see-saw type motion similar bicycling, rock climbing or stair climbing. The resistance cylinder comprises a hydraulic-type cylinder which provides resistance during reciprocating movement of the upper and lower pivot levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventors: Gary D. Piaget, Trace O. Gordon
  • Patent number: 5505679
    Abstract: A recumbent leg and arm exercising machine is disclosed which may be used as a rower, a stepper and/or to perform a bench press-type exercise. The machine may also be used to exercise only the arms, only the legs, as well as both the arms and the legs. The exercising machine includes a seat, foot levers and arm levers, and is constructed so that the apparatus may be used for synchronized exercises in which selected or all levers move in synchronism. In accordance with the preferred embodiment, the exercising machine includes right foot and arm levers coupled to move in synchronism in opposite directions, and left foot and arm levers coupled to move in synchronism in opposite directions. Preferably, the right levers and the left levers operate independently of each other. However, in alternate embodiments, the right and left levers may also be coupled to move in synchronism, so that the apparatus operates either as a rower or as a stepper, depending upon the arrangement for coupling the levers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Assignee: Formula Ventures, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert W. McBride, Lin Siz-Pin
  • Patent number: 5499417
    Abstract: A multipurpose floating pillow including an ellipse dish-like lower member having a spherical recess formed on its top surface for receiving an inflatable sac therein. A molded and resilient upper member covers and engages with the lower member. A container may be disposed in a recess formed on the bottom side of the lower member to receive, for example, a weight scale. Pads made of slightly rigid material may be disposed between the inflatable sac and the upper member. The resiliency and softness of the floating pillow can be adjusted through the inflation of the inflatable sac. The floating pillow will therefore not become deformed after long periods of use and may provide different functions on different occasions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 19, 1996
    Inventor: Chih C. Wang
  • Patent number: 5496241
    Abstract: An exercise machine of the present invention is transformable between a first mode for simulating an activity such as skiing or rowing involving reciprocating linear motion and a second mode for simulating a cycling activity. The exercise machine comprises a frame, a shaft operatively connected to the frame for rotation about a shaft axis, a flywheel secured to the shaft and rotatable therewith, and a runner. A drive roller is operatively connected to the frame and is engageable with the runner such that forward or rearward movement of the runner causes the drive roller to rotate. A one-way clutch operatively connects the drive roller to the shaft so that the drive roller when rotated in a first direction causes rotation of the flywheel, and is free wheeling when rotated in a second opposite direction. A pair of offset cranks are operatively connectable to the shaft and a pair of foot pedals are connected to the cranks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 5, 1996
    Inventor: Tyrone D. Sellers
  • Patent number: 5480365
    Abstract: A foldable handlebar for an exercise machine of the type that has a base frame, laterally spaced foot support members carried by the base frame, and a main strut attached to the base member and extending upwardly therefrom. The handlebar is rotatably attached atop the main strut so that each individual user can adjust the handlebar to accommodate his or her particular measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Assignee: Physia, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher B. Lundin, John Nelson
  • Patent number: 5441466
    Abstract: An exercise step includes a generally rectangular stepping platform having first and second ends and further includes first and second pairs of leg bellows respectively mounted to the first and second ends of the platform thereby forming four legs for supporting the stepping platform above a supporting surface. Each pair of leg bellows is controlled by a single valve for selectively simultaneously inflating or deflating the pair of leg bellows to selectively adjust the height of the platform above a supporting surface. A channel extends between the paired leg bellows at each end of the platform. Each leg bellows includes a flexible air tube extending therefrom, and the air tubes are received in the channels in the bottom of the platform. The valves comprise slotted valve stems which extend into the channels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Inventors: Gary Piaget, Trace O. Gordon
  • Patent number: 5439432
    Abstract: An exercise machine comprises a pair of stepping members pivotally secured to the base frame, a main strut attached to the base frame extending upwardly therefrom and handlebars secured atop the main strut. A different resistance cylinder is secured to each stepping member for providing resistance when a downward force is placed on the stepping members by the user. The stepping members each have a compression mat secured thereto for providing a cushioned surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Physiq, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher B. Lundin, Clive G. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5439433
    Abstract: A step climber exercise machine comprises a base frame having a support bar telescopically mounted therein, a pair of stepping members pivotally secured to the base frame, a main strut attached to the base frame extending upwardly therefrom and handle bars secured atop the main strut. A different resistance is secured to each stepping member for providing resistance when a downward force is placed on the stepping members by the user. The support bar can extend outwardly from the base frame to prevent tipping of the exercise machine when in use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Physiq, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher B. Lundin, Clive G. Stevens
  • Patent number: 5437587
    Abstract: A recumbent bilateral reciprocal isokinetic leg exerciser wherein first and second reciprocating members are slidingly coupled to a linear track so that they move with linear bilateral reciprocal motion. Both reciprocating members are coupled to associated hydraulic cylinders so that hydraulic fluid is drawn into or forced out of the hydraulic cylinders as the reciprocating members move along the track. A valve assembly is coupled to the hydraulic cylinders for controlling fluid flow into and out of the hydraulic cylinders so that the reciprocating members move isokinetically. The valve assembly may be set for simultaneous movement of the first and second reciprocating members or for movement of one reciprocating member by itself. To ensure accurate measurement of patient effort, a strain gauge assembly is disposed on each reciprocating member for detecting deformation of the reciprocating member along multiple axes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 1, 1995
    Assignee: Loredan Biomedical
    Inventors: Jeffrey T. Prince, Glen R. Mangseth, Malcolm L. Bond, John Bouwman, Philip T. Dempster
  • Patent number: 5419751
    Abstract: A multiple function exercise apparatus comprises a frame for supporting a resistance assembly such as a guided weight assembly. A cam is pivotally mounted on the frame and is operably connected to the resistance assembly. A handlebar may be attached to said cam in one of a plurality of fixed resting positions. In one mode of operation, movement of the handlebar in a first direction causes the cam to pivot in a first direction thereby moving the resistance assembly from its resting position. In another mode of operation, the movement of the handlebar in a second direction opposite the first direction causes the cam to likewise pivot in a second direction opposite the first rotational direction thereby moving the resistance assembly from its resting position. In yet another mode of operation, the cam may be locked in a fixed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Assignee: Stamina Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Rick Byrd, Kevin Gerschefske, William C. Brazeal