Bicycling Patents (Class 482/57)
  • Patent number: 7678025
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises: a frame having a base portion and having first and second right support elements and first and second left support elements; a crank system comprising first and second crank coupling locations, the crank system being supported by the frame; a right foot support member; a left foot support member; a right guide element coupled to the right foot support member and; a left guide element coupled to the left foot support member; a first flexible support system comprising a first flexible element, the first flexible element coupled to the first and second right support elements and the right guide element and coupled to the first crank coupling location; and a second flexible support system comprising a second flexible element, the second flexible element coupled to the first and second left support elements and the left guide element and coupled to the second crank coupling location, wherein alternating motion of the right and left foot support members causes the first and second c
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2010
    Inventor: Robert E. Rodgers, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7670267
    Abstract: A pace-adjusting mechanism of an elliptical cross trainer having an electric adjusting motor installed at the bottom of a flywheel transmission unit for driving a telescopic tube in displacement. Meanwhile, a w-shaped driven connecting rod and two L-shaped connecting elements are employed to adjust the vertical position of two treadle planks, thereby achieving different exercise paces.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventor: Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 7670266
    Abstract: An elliptical machine has a frame and an operating linkage between the frame and foot supports. Each side of the operating linkage comprises five links that are connected with five pin joints. A foot support is connected to each side of the operating linkage with each of the five pin joints being positioned forward of the foot support.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Assignee: Unisen, Inc.
    Inventors: Victor Torres Cornejo, Mark William Chiles, James Dey, Felipe J. Marin, Kevin Patrick Corbalis
  • Patent number: 7670268
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame configured to rest on a floor surface; left and right cranks rotatably mounted on the frame; left and right drive links having forward ends rotatably coupled to respective cranks, and rearward ends constrained to move in reciprocal fashion relative to the frame; left and right rocker links rotatably mounted on the frame at a common pivot axis; left and right drawbar links rotatably interconnected between respective rocker links and respective drive links; and left and right foot links having forward ends rotatably coupled to respective rocker links, and rearward, foot supporting ends constrained to move in reciprocal fashion relative to respective drawbar links or respective drive links. The resulting linkage assemblies constrain the foot supporting ends to move through elliptical paths, and the paths may be altered by adjusting various components of the linkage assemblies relative to one another and/or the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 7666122
    Abstract: An elliptical exercise machine features a pair of translating members to which a pair of foot members is axially secured. The foot members each pivots with respect to the associated translating member. The generated motion allows a user to lock a knee before beginning downward movement and allows a user to bend the same knee before beginning forward movement such that the motion is more natural for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Assignee: Unisen, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark William Chiles, Felipe J. Marin, James Dey, Victor Torres Cornejo, Kevin Patrick Corbalis
  • Patent number: 7662070
    Abstract: A recumbent bicycle for use by disabled users. The bicycle includes a seat unit that is adjustable in both the horizontal direction and in the vertical direction as well as a pedal unit that has a motor for controlling both the time and rotational speed of pedals. Straps are located to hold the user in the seat unit. The pedals are oversized with respect to the user's feet and have a heel-engaging ledge as well as straps to hold the user's feet on the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventor: Michael N. Mann
  • Patent number: 7662069
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus has a linkage assembly which links rotation of a crank to generally elliptical movement of a force receiving member. The linkage assembly includes a flexible drawbar interconnected between the crank and frame of the exercise apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 16, 2010
    Inventors: Joseph D. Maresh, Kenneth W. Stearns
  • Publication number: 20100035732
    Abstract: A muscle exercise device can include a crank having an axis of rotation. A first arm can be connected to the crank so that a downward external force applied to the distal end of the first arm causes rotation of the crank. The devices of the present invention can further include a second arm to which a counterweight is connected. Optionally, an assist mechanism other than a counterweight can be used to provide upward movement of the first arm with minimal application of force by a subject. A retrofit kit can be provided for modifying an existing device such as an ergometer or road bicycle. The retrofit kit can include a counterweight and a fastener for attaching to the device to the existing device. The devices of the present invention allow for increased exercise capacity, isolation of muscle groups, and biomechanical forces which closely approximate comparable paired limb motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2009
    Publication date: February 11, 2010
    Inventor: James Charles Martin
  • Patent number: 7654936
    Abstract: A stationary exercise device having variable footpaths is disclosed. The exercise device includes a frame, a pair of supporting members that have a first end to rotate about an axis and a second end to move along a reciprocating path, a pair of pedals joined to the supporting members, and a guider assembly for adjusting an incline angle of the reciprocating path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech.
    Inventors: Hung-Mao Liao, Bill W. Baier, Mark J. Kannel, Donald E. Stiemke, Darian P. Johnston, J. Addison Pettis
  • Publication number: 20100022354
    Abstract: An apparatus of exercise equipment with movable handle bars to simulate steering motion in a virtual environment and methods therefor are disclosed. One embodiment of the apparatus includes, exercise equipment having a display unit and a computing unit, a foot actuator mounted on a frame of the exercise equipment, a seat assembly coupled to a rail mounted on the frame of the exercise equipment, and/or a handle bar coupled to the seat assembly on one side. The handle bar can be programmable or reprogrammable to cause a leftwards steering motion or a rightwards steering motion to be simulated in the virtual environment in response to rotation in a given direction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicant: Expresso Fitness Corp.
    Inventor: John Fisher
  • Patent number: 7651444
    Abstract: An auxiliary structure to improve efficacy of a fitness equipment includes a pair of swing bars pivoted to a pair of traction bars wherein in turn pivoted to a crank; the crank drives a sprocket and a resistance control wheel for both swing bars to drive both traction bars to travel up, down, back and forth; each pedal is disposed with a roller to travel in a slide attached to the traction bar and is pivoted to a pull-and-push connection bar, which in turn is pivoted to a transmission connection bar; each transmission connection bar is pivoted to a support; each mid section of the transmission connection bar is pivoted to an active connection bar, which in turn is pivoted to the swing bar; and each pedal is dragged by the push-and-pull connection bar driven by the transmission connection bar when both swing bars alternatively swing to drive the transmission connecting bar to increase longitudinal travel ranges of both pedals for providing adequate exercise amount for waist and legs of a user to improve exerci
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Inventor: Ying-Chou Lai
  • Patent number: 7651445
    Abstract: An elliptical trainer has a base, a flywheel, two four-bar linkages and two handles. The base has a bottom frame and a support mounted on the bottom frame. The four-bar linkages are mounted pivotally on the support and each four-bar linkage has a front link, a rear link, an upper coupler and a lower link. The handle assemblies are mounted pivotally on the support and pivotally connected respectively to the four-bar linkages. Because the four-bar linkages and the handle assemblies are structured compact and simple, fabrication, carrying and maintenance of the elliptical trainer are convenient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Inventor: I-Huang Chen
  • Patent number: 7648446
    Abstract: A stationary exercise machine includes a system for electronically controlling a pedal resistance so as to simulate the riding of a road-going bicycle. The exercise machine includes a control system that monitors pedal velocity and that controls the resistive load generated by an electronically-controlled resistance mechanism. In one example, an electromagnetic device may vary a resistive load placed on a flywheel, which, in turn, varies the pedal resistance experienced by a user. When the user increases the pedal velocity, the resistance mechanism increases the resistive load. When the user decreases the pedal velocity, the resistance mechanism decreases the resistive load. In another example, the resistance mechanism varies the resistive load based on a gear selection by the user. The control system may also take into account other factors, such as the grade of the simulated ride, simulated wind resistance, or other frictional forces when calculating the resistive load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Unisen, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark W. Chiles, Kevin P. Corbalis, Gregory Allen Wallace
  • Patent number: 7648445
    Abstract: An elliptical exercise apparatus includes a body having a base frame and two supporting frames uprighted at two opposite sides of the base frame; a pair of lead swing arms each having an upper end pivotally coupled with the corresponding supporting frame wherein a sliding treadle assembly having a lower end provided with a treadle portion is axially slidably attached to the lead swing arm; a pair of subsidiary swing arms each having one end pivotally coupled with the base frame wherein a subsidiary sliding sleeve pivotally coupled with the sliding treadle assembly via a pivot is axially slidably attached to the subsidiary swing arm; and a rotational shaft transversely and pivotally coupled with the base frame, wherein at each of two ends of the rotational shaft, a vertical rotational link has one end coupled with the rotational shaft and an opposite end pivotally coupled with the sliding sleeve.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 19, 2010
    Assignee: Cycling & Health Tech Industry R & D Center
    Inventors: Chun-Ho Chen, Chia-Hsiun Chuang
  • Patent number: 7641600
    Abstract: An exercise device including at least one positionable component configured to be positioned by a user. The exercise device includes a frame to which a collar is mounted. The positionable component includes a member that is slidably received within the collar and may be positioned by sliding the member to a selected position. A locking assembly is coupled to the collar and is operable to lock the member in a selected position within the collar, to release the member from the locked position, and when released, to allow the member to slide within the collar. The locking assembly includes a cam pivotably mounted to the collar and a cam follower assembly selectively biased by the cam against a portion of the member disposed inside the collar. The locking assembly also includes a pair of engagement members disposed inside the collar opposite the cam against which the cam biases the member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Lemond Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Bingham, Jr., Ryan P. Selby, Neil P. Everson, Paul A. Robertson
  • Patent number: 7641599
    Abstract: An exercise therapy device includes pedals, a pedal rotation shaft connected to the pedals, a load motor for driving the pedal rotation shaft, and a load control device for controlling the load motor to cause rotating motion of the pedal rotation shaft to be started by the load motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Engineering Company, Limited
    Inventors: Keizo Yoshida, Takuya Hayashi, Mitsunobu Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7641598
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus comprises: a frame; a crank system comprising first and second crank coupling locations, the crank system being supported by the frame; a right foot support member comprising a first right guide element; a left foot support member comprising a first left guide element; a right movable member comprising a second right guide element; a left movable member comprising a second left guide element; a first flexible support system comprising a first flexible element, the first flexible element coupled to the frame and the first and second right guide elements and operative to move the first crank coupling location when the right foot support member moves; and a second flexible support system comprising a second flexible element, the second flexible element coupled to the frame and the first and second left guide elements and operative to move the second crank coupling location when the left foot support member moves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Robert E. Rodgers, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20090318270
    Abstract: A collapsible training device and method are disclosed. The training device is of the cycling type and may be fully folded into a relatively small and aesthetic stowing cabinet when not in use leaving the room free and nice or may be opened to a workout position when training is carried out.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2006
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Inventor: Nir Daniel
  • Patent number: 7632219
    Abstract: An exercise device providing a fore and aft horizontal component of striding motion that is dynamically user-defined, while providing a vertical component of the motion that is maintained on a predetermined vertically reciprocating path in some embodiments. The exercise device guides the user's foot in a pseudo-elliptical stride path, while providing a dynamically variable stride length that allows the user to move with a natural stride length. The exercise device allows tall and short users to extend or curtail the stride length to match their natural stride lengths. The length of the reciprocating path is dynamically adjusted during the exercise operation without equipment adjustments by changes in the length of the stride input by the user at a pair of foot engagement pads disposed on laterally spaced apart foot support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: John Arthur Ohrt, James A. Duncan
  • Patent number: 7632220
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus is disclosed herein, including a frame, a rotating assembly, two supporting rods, two swing arms, two links, and two pedals. The front ends of the supporting rods are connected respectively to two pivotal ends of the rotating assembly, and the rear end of each supporting rods moves back and forth along a corresponding track. The front ends of the links are connected respectively at two swing ends of the swing arms. Each pedal has a step surface and is coupled to the rear portion of the corresponding link. The distance between the bottom of a circular path of the pivotal ends and the tracks is smaller than 10 cm. The length of the supporting rod is smaller than two times diameter of the circular path. The longitudinal horizontal distance between the front edge of the closed path and the rear edge of the circular path is smaller than 20 cm. The rear ends of the supporting rods are located between the front ends and rear ends of the pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2009
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Derek Nelson, Hung-Mao Liao, Te-Chang Huang
  • Patent number: 7621848
    Abstract: Various exercise apparatus have respective linkage assemblies which are movably mounted on a frame and link rotation of left and right cranks to elliptical movement of left and right foot supporting members. The linkage assemblies include separate linkage arrangements for horizontal and vertical displacement of the foot supporting members, and the linkage assemblies accommodate travel of the foot supporting members to positions laterally adjacent the cranks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 7621852
    Abstract: An exercise cycle assembly that detachably connects to a chair frame. The exercise cycle assembly includes a main frame having a first end portion detachably connectable to a frame element of a chair frame. The main frame includes support legs for supporting the exercise cycle assembly relative to the floor; and, a pedal assembly securely connected to the main frame. The first end portion preferably includes an elongated connecting member having a generally unshaped cross-section for engagement with the frame element of the chair. Generally, it connects to a horizontal crossbar of the chair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: VQ Actioncare, LLC
    Inventor: John Bowser
  • Publication number: 20090286654
    Abstract: A controller is disclosed, especially but not exclusively, for use in combination with an exercise apparatus. The controller comprises in one arrangement a handlebar assembly and one or more input devices, of at least one of the input device being responsive to movement of the handlebars. The controller may include a support such as a handlebar stem, and may provide output signals to a microprocessor in turn to control operation of a programme running on the microprocessor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: November 19, 2009
    Inventor: Michael Joseph Patrick Rice
  • Patent number: 7618351
    Abstract: A pedal exercise machine includes an arc trajectory with a length adjustment for adjusting the lengths of pedal trajectories and arm levers, an angle adjustment for adjusting the position of the pedal trajectory, and a displacement mechanism for adjusting the pedals' angles relative to the ground. The pedal exercise machine includes a base, a front frame and a center frame, coupled together, a pair of pedals, a pair of pedal links, and a pair of subsidiary pedal links, which are coupled to the respective pedals by shafts different from shafts which the respective pedal links are coupled to the corresponding pedals. The pedal exercise machine further includes a resistance pulley, a crank shaft, and a pair of crank link units. Each crank link unit has the angle adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the angle between the corresponding pedal link and the corresponding crank link unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Motus Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Taeg Joon Kwon, Sang Young Choi, Eung Won Kim, Sang Seo Han, Sang Jun Han, Gi Hong Kim
  • Patent number: 7618353
    Abstract: A treadmill assembly that includes a frame and a treadmill belt. In addition, a sensor produces a signal representative of an aspect of the user's position relative to at least one point on the frame. A belt rotation assembly turns the belt with a speed related to the signal. In one preferred embodiment the speed of the belt is inversely proportional to the distance between the user and the front of the treadmill. In another preferred embodiment the treadmill is sized to support a cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: BCI Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Larry C. Papadopoulos, Jennifer D. Hole
  • Patent number: 7618354
    Abstract: A stepping exercise apparatus includes a body, a crank pedal mechanism and a foot support device. The crank pedal mechanism is mounted in the body and includes a crank shaft and two pedals mounted respectively on two ends of the crank shaft. The foot support device is connected to the body to support and includes two feet, two positioning locks and two stabilizer bars. The feet are respectively and pivotally connected to body between a folded position and an unfolded position. The positioning locks are respectively mounted between the body and the feet to respectively lock the feet with the body when the feet are respectively kept in the unfolded position. The stabilizer bars are respectively and transversely connected to the feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Inventor: Shiou-Jhen Wu
  • Patent number: 7612759
    Abstract: A cycle computer display apparatus is provided with a touch panel for the rider to input data into the cycle computer. The cycle computer includes a display screen for producing visual images and a controller that selectively controls the visual images and the touch panel such that sensor areas of the touch panel are correlated to images formed on the display screen. Preferably, the controller produces several different display modes with button images of different sizes. The controller further correlates the touch panel to the different size button size images so that when the rider touches the touch panel in the area corresponding to the button image, the appropriate control program is executed by the controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 3, 2009
    Assignee: Shimano Inc.
    Inventor: Noriyuki Horiuchi
  • Patent number: 7608019
    Abstract: An exercise machine has foot supporting linkages that link rotation of left and right cranks to movement of a person's feet through respective left and right elliptical paths of motion that include a component extending parallel to the crank axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2009
    Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 7604575
    Abstract: A bicycle exercise assembly adapted to be mounted on a supporting surface includes a bicycle trainer device, adapted to operatively support an exercising person. Also, a relative motion-permitting assembly is adapted to be supported by the surface and to support the bicycle trainer device and to permit relative motion between the bicycle trainer device and the surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Larry C. Papadopoulos
  • Patent number: 7604574
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a rigid connector link having a first portion rotatably connected to a crank, a second portion constrained to move in reciprocating fashion, and a third portion connected to a foot support. The resulting assembly links rotation of the crank to movement of the foot support through a generally elliptical path. The connection points may be moved relative to one another and/or a supporting frame to adjust the size, shape, and/or orientation of the path.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2009
    Inventor: Joseph D. Maresh
  • Patent number: 7600771
    Abstract: Drivetrains and frames for vehicles, equipment, machines, etc. Some embodiments of the drivetrains and frames are particularly suited for human powered machines, such as bicycles and exercise equipment. In some embodiments, a drivetrain includes a reciprocating crank coupled to a crank pivot. A lever couples to the crank via a lever pivot positioned on the crank. A lever stop cooperates with a lever guide surface to guide a motion of the lever as the lever pivots about the lever pivot. The lever and/or the crank are operably coupled to a drive pulley, idler pulley, and/or compound pulley. In some embodiments, a drive cable operably couples the lever and/or the crank to the drive pulley, idler pulley, and/or the compound pulley. In one embodiment, one or more pulleys couple to the lever's distal ends. In some embodiments, the drivetrain includes a wheel hub adapted to receive torque from the crank via a drive pulley.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Catadon Systems LLC
    Inventors: Donald C Miller, Michael C Ross
  • Patent number: 7594879
    Abstract: A rotary rehabilitation apparatus is presented for rehabilitation of a person's extremity, including the joints and assorted muscles, tendons, ligaments, that can be tailored to the person's needs based upon their physical size, type of injury, and plan for recovery. The apparatus facilitates the adjustment of the range of motion of the user's extremity in a cycling action by offsetting a moveable lever from a fixed lever at a plurality of angles. As the user's extremity moves in a circular path, the extremity engages in extension and flexion to cause movements in the articulations formed at the user's joints.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2009
    Assignee: Brainchild LLC
    Inventor: Kenneth W. Johnson
  • Publication number: 20090239714
    Abstract: The instant invention combines an upper and lower body skier, a rowing machine, a stepping, a stair climber, cycling and an elliptical training machine into one unit allowing for its use in a multitude of modes. The machine also features a seat that adjusts both vertically and horizontally. This feature allows for the elliptical mode to be used as a standard cycle or as a recumbent cycle. The magnetic resistance of the flywheel gives the machine smooth silent operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Ty Sellers
  • Publication number: 20090239718
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a base; a saddle provided on the base via a first elastic flexible shaft; a pedaling pedestal provided on the base so that a pedaling axis for the pedaling pedestal is tilted toward the saddle; and a handle provided on the base via a second elastic flexible shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2007
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Iwao Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20090239717
    Abstract: A lower body exercise device for use with a seat. Other embodiments of the seat mountable lower body exercise device include a lower body exercise mechanism (20) for simultaneous use by a user while working, reading or doing other sedentary activities, and a simple installation mechanism (10) for various forms of seat. In addition, simple detachable function (11a), (11c), and multiple adjustment functions (21aa), (23), (30) for various user's circumstances is available, and one or more exercise alteration is also available by adjustment (30), (33a), (27c), (24b). Other embodiments include a magnetic cycle system which may reduce the exercise device body (21?) in size.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2009
    Publication date: September 24, 2009
    Inventor: Julee Kim
  • Patent number: 7591761
    Abstract: A walking/jogging exercise machine includes a machine frame supported upon a generally horizontally extending floor. A shaft is mounted for rotation on the machine frame, and a pair of cams is mounted for rotation on the shaft. A pair of movable track assemblies has rear portions with rear ends pivotally connected to the machine frame, and front portions with movable front ends. A pair of articulated cam follower assemblies extend between the machine frame and the front ends of the track assembly front portions. The cam follower assemblies include cam rollers operably engaged upon peripheries of the cams, and the cam follower assemblies move in response to rotation of the cams. A pair of foot assemblies is mounted for sliding movement on the track assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Northland Industries
    Inventor: Patrick D. Ellis
  • Patent number: 7591765
    Abstract: An exercise bicycle including a frame having a seat and handlebars, a high-inertia flywheel having a hub at a center of rotation, the flywheel being rotatably supported on the frame at the hub, and a drive train including a drive sprocket, a crank arm attached to and extending from the drive sprocket, and a pedal attached to the crank arm, the drive train being rotatably supported by the frame. The drive train also includes a slave sprocket fixed to the flywheel at the hub, with the drive and slave sprockets connected in a direct-drive relationship, the drive train driveable in a forward and rearward directions to cause the flywheel to rotate. A clutch mechanism is positioned in engagement with the slave sprocket and the hub to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Warner, Michael H. Harding, Mu-Chuan Wu, William A. Baker
  • Publication number: 20090233767
    Abstract: The fitness cycle of the present invention is equipped with a DC motor along with a control circuit, enabling the users to drive the trampling set via the DC motor. Multiple speeds can be adjusted via a control device to generate a steering effect. Conversely, if the users need an increased movement resistance load, the fitness cycle allows for free switching to generate resistance by the same DC motor through current control. The resistance value to generate a multi-speed resistance movement effect is adjustable. With the configuration of the seating unit, the users flexibly adjust and adapt themselves to an optimum ergonomic posture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 17, 2009
    Applicant: IWATE International Developing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Chia-Te HUANG
  • Publication number: 20090227429
    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: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventor: John R. Baudhuin
  • Publication number: 20090227428
    Abstract: The subject matter discloses an exercising device enabled to switch between elliptical course and circular course of footrests used by a user, comprising two main wheels, each connected to a different footrest; two connecting rods, the distal end of each connecting rod is connected to each main wheel and the proximal end of each connecting rod is connected to the body of the exercising device, said connecting rods are enabled to move the two main wheels on a horizontal axis.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 9, 2008
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Inventors: Ran TAMARI, Herzel FRENKEL
  • Patent number: 7585257
    Abstract: A bicycle simulation apparatus includes: a steering angle sensor which detects a steering angle of handlebars; a visual display which displays scenes based on a simulated travel speed and the steering angle of the handlebars; and a crank position detector which detects rotational positions of cranks. The crank position detector includes two detected protrusions on a crankshaft and left and right approach sensors. A warning section of a main controller issues warnings if it is determined that the steering angle exceeds a predetermined angle to the left or right during simulated traveling, and if it is also determined by the crank position detector that the crank is directed downward during a sharp turning operation of the handlebars. The bicycle simulation apparatus enables a more realistic driving simulation in consideration of rotational positions of simulator pedals and cranks.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yukio Miyamaru, Atsushi Yonehana
  • Patent number: 7582045
    Abstract: A variable resistance aquatic exercise apparatus which provides a platform for removable fit to each of a user's hands and arms is disclosed. Each platform provides a plurality of one-way valves of two sizes. Each platform further provides a dialable disc which varies with orifice size, from a larger orifice to smaller orifices, or a user may choose to close orifices, thereby providing varied resistance to movement through water. Multiple embodiments of the platform are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventors: Joseph L. Lombardi, Justin Thompson
  • Patent number: 7582043
    Abstract: A stationary exercise apparatus with adjustable members for varying the stride path and the exercise intensity of a user. The stationary exercise apparatus has a frame. The frame has side portions positioned at left and right sides. The rearward of the frame and the side portions define a space for a user to get on the stationary exercise apparatus via the space. The stationary exercise apparatus further comprises top members which are movably coupled to the side portions of the frame for the user to grip thereon to safely get on the stationary exercise apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hung-Mao Liao, Yung-Fa Wang
  • Patent number: 7582044
    Abstract: A training bench for cyclists includes a framework. The framework has rollers on which the wheels of a bicycle rest. The framework also has a central support including a platform which is connected to the framework with transverse bars, on which it can move. The platform has an elastically deformable anchoring system serving as a holding base for holding a column. At its free end, the column supports the frame of the bicycle. The anchoring system acts as an absorption member for controlling the movement of the bicycle with regard to the platform and the framework.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 1, 2009
    Inventors: Jacobo Múgica Miguel, Luis Saracho Rotaeche
  • Publication number: 20090211395
    Abstract: An adjustable pedal system for changing the position of pedals along the crank arms of an exercise bike. The system provides a locking member, such as a rack, located along the crank arm and a locking member, such as one or more gear teeth formed on a slide sleeve to which the pedal is affixed. Thus the slide sleeve and pedal can be slid along the crank arm to the desired position whereupon the locking members intermesh to positively lock the pedal in the desired location. The intermeshing is maintained by a clamping device, such as a thumb screw that is tightened to lock the pedals in the desired location and loosened to disengage the locking members to allow the movement of the pedals to another location. The system can be operated without the need for tools and can be retrofitted to existing exercise bikes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2008
    Publication date: August 27, 2009
    Inventor: Leonard Mul'e
  • Patent number: 7578770
    Abstract: An exercise device includes a right and a left belt part arranged in connection with the right and the left pedal part. The belt parts are arranged to travel as an endless loop around sheaves. A right and a left rod part, each has a first end and a second end. The right footrest is fastened to the right belt part and the left footrest to the left belt part. The first end of the right rod part is fastened to the right belt part and the second end is pivoted to the frame structure. The first end of the left rod part is fastened to the left belt part and the second end is pivoted to the frame structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 25, 2009
    Assignee: Accell Fitness Division, B.V.
    Inventor: Henri Kuivala
  • Publication number: 20090197744
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes: a base; a saddle provided on the base via a first elastic flexible shaft; a pedaling pedestal provided on the base so that a pedaling axis for the pedaling pedestal is tilted toward the saddle; and a handle provided on the base via a second elastic flexible shaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2006
    Publication date: August 6, 2009
    Inventor: Iwao Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7569001
    Abstract: An exercise bicycle including a frame having a seat and handlebars, a high-inertia flywheel having a hub at a center of rotation, the flywheel being rotatably supported on the frame at the hub, and a drive train including a drive sprocket, a crank arm attached to and extending from the drive sprocket, and a pedal attached to the crank arm, the drive train being rotatably supported by the frame. The drive train also includes a slave sprocket fixed to the flywheel at the hub, with the drive and slave sprockets connected in a direct-drive relationship, the drive train driveable in a forward and rearward directions to cause the flywheel to rotate. A clutch mechanism is positioned in engagement with the slave sprocket and the hub to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 4, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Warner, Michael H. Harding, Mu-Chuan Wu, Andy Baker
  • Publication number: 20090192024
    Abstract: A stepping exercise apparatus includes a body, a crank pedal mechanism and a foot support device. The crank pedal mechanism is mounted in the body and includes a crank shaft and two pedals mounted respectively on two ends of the crank shaft. The foot support device is connected to the body to support and includes two feet, two positioning locks and two stabilizer bars. The feet are respectively and pivotally connected to body between a folded position and an unfolded position. The positioning locks are respectively mounted between the body and the feet to respectively lock the feet with the body when the feet are respectively kept in the unfolded position. The stabilizer bars are respectively and transversely connected to the feet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 26, 2008
    Publication date: July 30, 2009
    Inventor: Shiou-Jhen WU
  • Patent number: 7560822
    Abstract: An educational electrical generation kit includes a bicycle wheel support which may accommodate the driven wheel of a bicycle, and wherein a generator engages the driven bicycle wheel to generate electricity. The kit also includes a display board with various electrical output meters and/or electrical loads for monitoring and/or dissipating the electrical output from the bicycle. The kit is designed to be readily portable and easily set up and torn down, and to allow a spectator/participant to incorporate a bicycle of virtually any size into the bicycle wheel support to interactively generate electricity for use in the display board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Inventor: Gregory C. Hoffmann