Including Upper Body Exercise Feature Patents (Class 482/62)
-
Patent number: 7367928Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed for performing pushups thereupon. It includes a foot supporter coupled via a connecting means to a hand supporter. The foot supporter has front and back pieces pivotably coupled at a join via a double axle coupled by a short connector and a foot support bar comprising a crosspiece and support legs attached thereto. Therefore, the height of the crosspiece above said surface may be varied between a lowered position and a raised position. This device is compact and portable and is used for performing more effective push-ups.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2006Date of Patent: May 6, 2008Inventor: Shimon Storch
-
Publication number: 20080085819Abstract: A MDOF muscle training machine is provided in the present invention. The training machine has multi-degree-of-freedom (MDOF) being able to be set by users to make various cyclic motions with respect to various groups of muscle to be trained. The training machine comprises an adjustable frame and a cyclic motion device. The adjustable frame has MDOF being able to be adjusted with respect to the various cyclic motions. The cyclic motion device is assembled on the adjustable frame. The adjustable frame can be adjusted to decide a specific position of the cyclic motion device with respect to specific groups of muscle. Both arms (legs) of the user are constrained by the cyclic motion device. The user has to coordinate the specific groups of muscle to drive the cyclic motion device.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2007Publication date: April 10, 2008Inventor: Tian-Fang Yang
-
Publication number: 20080076639Abstract: A prolong-tracked elliptical exercise machine has a base, two poles, two pedal assemblies and a wheel assembly. The pedal assemblies are mounted oppositely beside the base and each pedal assembly has a linking bar, a rail and a pedal. The linking bar is pivotally mounted between the corresponding pole and the wheel assembly. The rail is mounted securely on the linking bar. The pedal is mounted slidably on the rail and is synchronized to and moved along the rail by a driving assembly driven by movement of the wheel assembly. Accordingly, since pedals move relative to the rail, a distance of pedal movement is increased to provide greater exercise advantages at low cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 25, 2007Publication date: March 27, 2008Inventor: Su-Jung Fon
-
Patent number: 7318793Abstract: Exercise devices that have a novel mechanical that allow the force required to do push-ups, pull-ups or dips to be varied to aid with athletic training.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2003Date of Patent: January 15, 2008Inventors: William Richard Dubrul, Richard E Fulton
-
Patent number: 7316633Abstract: An exercise machine includes a pair of slide members having front ends connected to a crank unit for turning along with the crank unit and rear ends linearly slidable on a support. A pair of reciprocating members are mounted on the support for reciprocating forward and backward. A pair of foot support members each have a front pivotal end and a rear free end. The front pivotal end of each foot support member is connected pivotally to one of the slide members between the front and rear ends of the slide member. Each foot support member is connected to one of the reciprocating members rearwardly of the front pivotal end.Type: GrantFiled: November 15, 2004Date of Patent: January 8, 2008Assignee: Johnson Health Tech. Co. Ltd.Inventors: Hung-Mao Liao, Te-Chang Huang
-
Patent number: 7303511Abstract: An exercise device includes two foot carriage assemblies. The foot carriage assemblies are operable to support a user's feet on a frame and to travel along a generally lateral path of motion. The foot carriages are operable to engage first and second torque tubes, which in turn participate in resisting the lateral movement of the foot carriages. A lateral striding motion on the exercise device may include a simulation of a motion associated with skating and/or skiing.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: John Bull
-
Patent number: 7303515Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a support defining a first sliding surface and at least one hand-held sliding device that defines that defines a second sliding surface. The hand-held sliding device, and particularly the second sliding surface, is configured to mate with the first sliding surface. In operation, the second sliding surface slides along the first sliding surface when a user applies body weight to the hand-held sliding device. The exercise apparatus preferably includes a stop coupled to the support which is positioned orthogonally to a sliding direction of the hand-held sliding device. The stop is preferably also adjustable, as is the support, to accommodate performing different types of exercises.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2002Date of Patent: December 4, 2007Inventor: Christopher P. Wall
-
Patent number: 7300391Abstract: The present invention is directed to an abdominal and torso strengthening apparatus comprising a frame, cross segments and supporting elements. The frame comprises an arc member and a linear member, wherein the linear member couples to the arc member. The cross segments are rods that extend from the linear member to the arc member and can include a fitting that is configured to receive a weight. The supporting elements are coupled to the frame in a position to allow the strengthening apparatus to rest on the shoulders of the user during use.Type: GrantFiled: September 9, 2003Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Inventor: Richard Malchar
-
Patent number: 7285079Abstract: A portable exercise device is disclosed for improving a user's posture. Even though the exercise device is portable, it provides an active workout of those muscles involved in maintaining correct posture. In accordance with an important aspect of the invention, the exercise device in accordance with the present invention includes a spacer. One end of the spacer is placed against the user's body and the other end forms a fixed pivot point for the device. In one embodiment of the invention, the exercise device includes a pair of spaced apart handle bars coupled to a flexible member and a spacer for spacing the device away from the user's body. The spacer may either be a separate device or integrally formed with the other members. With the handle bars spaced away from the user's body, the spacer allows the user to repetitively bend and straighten the flexible member to strengthen those muscles associated with proper posture.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Inventor: Steven T. Mandell
-
Patent number: 7282014Abstract: An exercise device which uses two generally opposing grips on guides to guide a user through circular movements for exercise of the human body. The grips may be movably mounted to side supports or a central base. Resistance to the user's movement of the grips may be added.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2004Date of Patent: October 16, 2007Inventor: Mark Howard Krietzman
-
Patent number: 7276017Abstract: A pedal angle adjustable device for an elliptical trainer includes two adjustable plates pivotably connected between the pedal and two connection plates which are pivotably connected to an end of the pedal. The two adjustable plates each have a positioning hole composed of a plurality of positioning notches and a positioning rod extends through the two connection plates and the positioning holes in the two positioning plates. A push block connected to a handle is located in front of the positioning rod such that when operating the handle, the push block may push the positioning rod from one positioning notch to another and the pedal can be pivoted about the pivotal point on the end of the pedal.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 2005Date of Patent: October 2, 2007Inventor: Ming Nan Chen
-
Patent number: 7270643Abstract: An apparatus for exercising and supporting an upper limb includes two support modules connected on the first side by a rigid connecting piece. Both support modules have a frame, with a support plate fixed to their upper part. An exercising part is removably attached to the support plate of the first support module. An upper arm support part is articulated in the support plate and an actuator actuates the support part relative to the support plate. The frames of the support modules can be fitted immediately underneath the shoulder joints, the other upper limb being supported on the support plate in such a way that the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece. The first upper limb is supported on the exercising part so that the weight of the upper limb exerts a force on the rigid connecting piece, the forces being balanced by the connecting piece.Type: GrantFiled: April 23, 2004Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Olecranon OyInventor: Ari Pellinen
-
Patent number: 7267639Abstract: A compound bicycle exercising device includes two foot pedals rotatably attached to a base, for being operated by users, two handle stems pivotally attached to the base, for being rotated by the users, and two rotary members secured to each handle stem. A spindle is rotatably supported on the base, and includes two followers rotatably attached to each end with unidirectional bearings. Two coupling members couple the rotary members to the followers, and a rotary element is engaged between one of the rotary members and one of the followers, to allow the spindle to be rotated in different direction relative to the rotary member, and to allow the spindle to be continuously driven by the handle stems via the followers and the rotary members alternatively, when the handle stems are rotated relative to the pivot axle in reciprocating action.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Inventor: Hai Pin Kuo
-
Patent number: 7163495Abstract: A chest exerciser includes an elongated plunger housing and a pair of plungers that move in sealed sliding contact with the plunger housing on opposite sides of a common air volume within said plunger housing. An adjustable vent, centrally located between the plungers, communicates with the common air volume. Each plunger is attached to a hand grip. The handles slide on and are coaxial with the plunger housing. In the fully retracted position the grip distance between the proximal end of said first plunger hand grip member and the proximal end of said second plunger hand grip member is between 0 and 10 inches. The exerciser is used in combination with a breast enhancement nutrient, such as pueraria mirifica, which may be applied to the breast as a cream or tonic or ingested as an herb or pill.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2002Date of Patent: January 16, 2007Inventors: ReneƩ S. Fazio, Jeff Tuller
-
Patent number: 7160230Abstract: A system for use in an exercise apparatus for synchronizing the movement of the upper limbs comprises a shaft mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis, left and right pulleys mounted at opposed end portions of the shaft, and left and right handlebars respectively connected to the left and right pulleys and pivotable therewith about the longitudinal axis of the shaft. Left and right one-way clutches are provided for respectively transmitting a torque from the left and right pulleys to the shaft in one direction, while allowing the left and right pulleys to rotate freely relative to the shaft when driven in an opposite direction. First and second cables are connected in parallel between the left and right pulleys to communicate a movement imparted to one of the pulleys to the other pulley but in an opposite direction, thereby causing the handlebars to pivot in an inverted synchronized fashion.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2003Date of Patent: January 9, 2007Assignee: Bodyguard FitnessInventor: Jess Tremblay
-
Patent number: 7137933Abstract: Device and methods for strengthening and toning the abdominal and gluteal muscles. A seat is mounted in a fixed position on a base, and a back is pivotally mounted for movement about an axis toward the rear of the seat, with springs or elastic cords yieldably urging the backrest to pivot in an upward direction toward a raised position. To strengthen and condition the upper, lateral and oblique abdominal muscles and gluteal muscles, an exerciser rests upon the seat, with his back against the backrest, and the elastic cords or springs assist him in raising his back and also allow him to extend to the full range of backward motion while absorbing the impact of that motion. To exercise the lower abdominal muscles and gluteal muscles, the exerciser reclines on the seat, with his legs on the backrest and the elastic cords or springs assisting him in raising his legs and absorbing the impact of lowering them.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2004Date of Patent: November 21, 2006Inventor: Tessema Dosho Shifferaw
-
Patent number: 7125367Abstract: An exercise device includes a frame, and left and right force receiving members movably mounted on the frame. The force receiving members are selectively linked to one another to facilitate a first mode of exercise, wherein a person's hands or legs are repeatedly moved toward and away from one another. When so linked, the force receiving members may alternatively be biased toward one another or away from one another. The force receiving members may be decoupled to facilitate a second mode of exercise, wherein a person stretches and/or leans forward and then returns backward.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2002Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Inventor: Kenneth W. Stearns
-
Patent number: 7118515Abstract: An exercising device is described that permits exercising the arms and/or legs of a person, such as a wheelchair-bound person. The device has a drive shaft to which foot pedals are mounted. The foot pedals are mounted off of the axis of rotation and at an angle to the axis of rotation such that when a person's feet are strapped to the foot pedals and the drive shaft is rotated, the feet will circle the axis of rotation and will cause circular motion of the ankles. Arm exercising members are attached to the drive shaft will cause an oscillatory pivotal motion of the arm exercising members.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Inventors: Arthur Michael Kassel, Kenneth Owen Richardson
-
Patent number: 7108643Abstract: An elongate floor-supported platform having sliding handgrips mounted thereon. In a preferred embodiment, the handgrips, which are constrained to move only along a track, which may be linear or curvilinear and lying in a substantially horizontal plane, are interconnected by linking means such as belts. The linkage is such that the handgrips remain equidistant from a fixed centerline midway between the handgrips throughout their range of motion. In the preferred embodiment, the linking means are belts that are supported by pulleys housed within the floor-supported platform. In yet a further embodiment, the platform includes wall and/or ceiling attachment means and can be employed for performing pull-ups.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2005Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Inventors: Jeffrey Dale Wilson, Jeff Jenneve, Daniel Steven Sanchez
-
Patent number: 7108646Abstract: An infant exercise cushion including a substantially rigid core element preferably in the form of a hollow pipe. A soft resilient material surrounds a substantial portion of the core element. The soft resilient material forms a curved outer surface for the cushion so that the cushion may be rolled on the floor when there is interface between the infant and the cushion.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2003Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Inventor: Catherine G. Quick
-
Patent number: 7104939Abstract: A freestanding back therapy and multiple exercise station on which various therapeutic, stretching, bending, twisting, extension and inversion exercises may be carried out utilizing the user's weight for fully flexing and decompressing the spine and strengthening the trunk and back muscles of the user. The station has a frame of tubular construction with a floor engaging base, front and rear vertical upright members, a horizontal top member extending between upper ends thereof, and a cushioned forearm pad on each said horizontal member with handgrips at outer of the horizontal top members. A lower pair of vertically spaced padded cross members extend transversely between the rear vertical upright members to serve as foot supports. A central upright member is connected at a lower end with at least one padded cross member and has a forward and angularly upward extending upper portion. A backrest pad is mounted the central upright member.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Inventor: Raymond Randy Martinez
-
Patent number: 7097598Abstract: A foldable exerciser includes an operating member connected pivotally to atop end portion of a rear support member, a driving unit provided with two pedals and mounted on a front support member connected pivotally to the rear support member, a saddle-supporting member connected pivotally to the rear support member and disposed under and movable on a saddle-mounting member mounted with a saddle and connected pivotally to the rear support member, a coupling member interconnecting removably and disposed between the operating member and the saddle-supporting member, and a foldable positioning unit interconnecting the front and rear support members. When the coupling member is removed from the saddle-supporting member, the saddle-mounting member and the saddle-supporting member can be folded on the rear support member.Type: GrantFiled: June 15, 2005Date of Patent: August 29, 2006Inventor: Lung-Huei Lee
-
Patent number: 7094187Abstract: The present invention involves an exercise device having an elongated base member with a linear track on a topside of the elongated base member. A slidable body moves within the one or more linear tracks. The slidable body is attached to a pole to be gripped while exercising.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: August 22, 2006Inventor: Peter A. Rizzo
-
Patent number: 7087004Abstract: A massaging device which is straddled over the doorstop of a door opening at an elevated location coincident with a hard-to-reach back area and held in place by the leaning weight of a user moving back and forth and up an down permitting a self-administered back massage.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2000Date of Patent: August 8, 2006Inventor: Michael N. Berke
-
Patent number: 7083558Abstract: A multipurpose exercise device where a user sitting on the exercise device seat can exercise their muscles by first sitting in an upright position on the horizontally disposed seat, with the lower part of their feet pressing against the first horizontally disposed bar above their ankles. The user then leans back from their waist at approximately 45 degrees to the horizontally disposed seat then the user returns to an upright position. This exercise repeated several times affects the abdominal muscles. A user may also exercise the pectoral muscles with the exercise device when the user begins with both arms grasping the second horizontally disposed bar. A user then extends both arms and lowers the torso by bending the arms at the elbow to a convenient position parallel to the second horizontally disposed bar The user raises the torso to the beginning or original position by extending the arms again. The repetitive exercise against resistance provided by the user's body weight strengthens the pectoral muscle.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2004Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Inventor: Timothy Williams, Sr.
-
Patent number: 7037242Abstract: An angle adjustable pedal assembly for elliptical exercisers includes a pedal frame and a pedal which is pivotably connected to two sides on an end of the pedal frame. Each side wall has a hole with three notches defined in an inside of the hole and the pedal has two connection plates each of which has a reset slot and a set slot which communicates with the reset slot. A pin extends through one of the reset slot and the set slot, and is engaged with one of the three notches in the side walls so that the pedal can be set at different angle relative to the pedal frame by engaging with one of the three notches in the side walls.Type: GrantFiled: July 3, 2003Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Octane Fitness, LLCInventors: Eric Lo, Kuang-Shiung Kao, Joe Halfen, Timothy Porth
-
Patent number: 7025710Abstract: An exercise trainer with a stride multiplier mounted on a base having crank arms rotationally supported on the base with foot links connected to the crank arms at one end and supported for movement distally from the crank arms. Foot pedals are respectively supported for longitudinal movement on the foot links with a flexible connection between the foot pedals and a ground connection on the base and the foot links to provide a generally elliptical movement of the foot pedals. Pivotal levers having at least one portion connected for movement with the foot links are connected to the foot links by a pivotal connection. The pivotal levers have an upper portion with handles and a lower portion with at least a portion that can be disengaged from movement with the foot links.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2002Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Assignee: Unisen, Inc.Inventors: Kevin P. Corbalis, John C. Rufino, Yong Ming Goh
-
Patent number: 6979284Abstract: An exercise apparatus is provided which includes a chair, an arm-exercising station, and a leg-exercising station. The arm-exercising station is mounted in the armrests of the chair and includes a support frame attached to the base portion of the chair, a pair of elongated left and right exercise bars disposed within the left and right armrest portions of the chair operable for selective pivotal movement within the armrest portions, and a resistance device attached to the bars for resisting the pivotal movement of the bars. The leg-exercising station is associated with the underside of the footrest portion of the chair and includes a pedal assembly configured for rotational movement. The pedal assembly is automatically raised and positioned for use when the footrest is pivoted forwardly. The leg-exercising station is concealed within the chair when not in use.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2003Date of Patent: December 27, 2005Inventor: James Curtis
-
Patent number: 6976943Abstract: An exercise apparatus to exercise and strengthen the user's arms, shoulders and chest by performing pushups which combine raising and lowering the user's body through raising and lowering the user's arms while the user is in a face down horizontal position with the present invention exercise device used to simulate an up and down pumping action to cause the user to have his/her arms spread apart to make the pushups more difficult while providing a central chest support to facilitate the exercise.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: December 20, 2005Assignee: Hupa International, Inc.Inventor: Bob Hsiung
-
Patent number: 6960155Abstract: A cycling-type physical therapy apparatus includes a foot-operated pedal mechanism, a hand-operated assist mechanism, a transmission mechanism, and an electrical stimulation device, all of which are mounted on a frame assembly. The transmission mechanism is coupled to the pedal mechanism and the assist mechanism for transmitting auxiliary drive power applied through the assist mechanism to the pedal mechanism. The electrical stimulation device is operable so as to generate electrical stimulus for muscle stimulation of the user of the apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2003Date of Patent: November 1, 2005Assignee: ZMI Electronics Ltd.Inventors: Chih-Da Chien, Po-Hsing Lee
-
Patent number: 6932750Abstract: An exercise stand which is constructed of a main frame on which are mounted a leg at each corner. The leg is to support the main frame in a spaced position above a supporting surface. A pair of sub-frames are mounted on the main frame with each sub-frame being lineally slidably movable in a direction on the main frame to vary spacing between the sub-frames. Each sub-frame includes a plurality of members with each member on the sub-frame having a different orientation. A human user is capable of performing a plurality of different exercises using these members.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2002Date of Patent: August 23, 2005Inventor: Michael W. Dorner
-
Patent number: 6926645Abstract: A stationary bike is adjustable through a range of configurations, including one suitable for recumbent cycling, another suitable for semi-recumbent cycling, and yet another suitable for mostly upright cycling. A handle assembly is mounted on the stationary bike, and provides left and right handle members that are operable in different modes of operation, including a stationary mode, a linked exercise mode, and an independent exercise mode.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2003Date of Patent: August 9, 2005Inventors: Kenneth W. Stearns, Joseph D. Maresh
-
Patent number: 6910992Abstract: A tandem exerciser is described with two facing seats and two pedal cranks that cause tandem riders to face each other and pedal forwards. A mutually operable handlebar crank with opposing handles mechanically couples to pedals on both sides of the distal pedal crank. A single sprocket wheel concentrically attached to the proximal pedal crank is coupled by a twisted, figure-eight looped chain to one of two sprocket wheels coupled to the distal pedal crank. These opposing sprocket wheels are mounted to their respective pedal cranks so as to have opposite offset angles relative to vertical plane of frame. These offset angles prevent damaging physical contact between sides of chain. The remaining sprocket wheel of distal pedal crank is conventionally chain coupled to freewheel coupled to hub of flywheel. Optionally, a power generator is belt-coupled to outer rim of flywheel, to produce electrical, fluidic or motive power.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2002Date of Patent: June 28, 2005Inventor: Arcadio C. Arguilez
-
Patent number: 6902515Abstract: A multi-functional exercise apparatus for exercising arms, shoulders and trunk of a user. This exercise apparatus may include a stationary bicycle support platform and includes an upper body assembly which is movably engaged to and extended about the bicycle's seat mount. An arm-shoulder device is movably engaged to the upper body assembly. By providing such exercise apparatus, a user can move the upper body assembly with respect to the bicycle's seat mount to exercise the user's trunk while moving the arm-shoulder device to exercise the arms and shoulders. The user can independently or simultaneously rotate the bicycle's foot pedals with the user's legs to exercise the same for a more complete workout.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2003Date of Patent: June 7, 2005Inventors: Norman L. Howell, Steven R. Burke, Paul T. Wilkins
-
Patent number: 6865969Abstract: A pedal structure for exercise devices includes a pedal having a groove for receiving an operation rod therein and two positioning ports are defined in a side of the pedal. The positioning ports are continuous notches which are in communication with each other. Two connection ports are located on the operation rod and communicate with the positioning ports. Two positioning members respectively extend through the positioning ports and are engaged with the connection ports. The positioning members are able to slide between the continuous notches so as to adjust the effective length of the pedal relative to the operation rod.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2003Date of Patent: March 15, 2005Inventor: Kerry Peters Stevens
-
Patent number: 6840892Abstract: A recuperating machine includes a bottom base and a machine body. The machine body has a frame in the interior, and a pair of grips and a pair of pedals combined on the frame in such way that the grips can be rotated manually and the pedals not moving only for the feet of a user to step on or the pedals possible to be rotated but the grips not moving only for holding by means of a one-way bearing. So a user can select two modes of exercising by moving the hands only or by moving the feet only. Depending on the body condition of the user. Further the frame is pivotally connected with the front end of the bottom base for adjusting its inclining angles to suit to the height of a user sitting on a chair or a wheelchair.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2002Date of Patent: January 11, 2005Assignee: Tonic Fitness Technology, Inc.Inventor: Mu-Chuan Wu
-
Patent number: 6837829Abstract: The present invention relates to a standup exercise apparatus that stimulates in-place jogging and climbing with elliptical 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. A linkage is provided for each foot pedal to guide the pedal with reciprocating motion wherein the toe of the foot moves faster than the heel of the foot. A pair of cranks operably associated with the pedals provide dependent pedal motion. Handle movement is coordinated with the pedal movement for total body crosstraining. Low knee stress allows long duration exercise without hurting knees common with some crosstrainers.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2003Date of Patent: January 4, 2005Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
-
Publication number: 20040259693Abstract: A cycling-type physical therapy apparatus includes a foot-operated pedal mechanism, a hand-operated assist mechanism, a transmission mechanism, and an electrical stimulation device, all of which are mounted on a frame assembly. The transmission mechanism is coupled to the pedal mechanism and the assist mechanism for transmitting auxiliary drive power applied through the assist mechanism to the pedal mechanism. The electrical stimulation device is operable so as to generate electrical stimulus for muscle stimulation of the user of the apparatus.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2003Publication date: December 23, 2004Applicant: ZMI ELECTRONICS LTD.Inventors: Chih-Da Chien, Po-Hsing Lee
-
Patent number: 6830538Abstract: The present invention relates to a drive mechanism that converts a force supplied from an operator or other means along a complex curve path into rotary motion. More particularly, the present invention relates to a cyclodial drive mechanism configured for an operator driven or motor driven exercise apparatus such as a stationary bicycle, recumbent stationary bicycle, cross trainer or other devices. The present invention relates to the kinematic motion control of pedals which follow more complex curves having two or more lobes and spirals. More particularly, a cyclodial drive mechanism based upon a linkage and gear pair can be incorporated into several exercise apparatus to drive a flywheel.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2002Date of Patent: December 14, 2004Inventor: Paul William Eschenbach
-
Publication number: 20040242376Abstract: The invention relates to a cushioning unit for an oval-tracked exercise device. A connecting element has one end pivotably attached to the elongated treadle and the other end pivotably attached to the handle bar. A lateral piece parallel to the connecting element is inwardly extended from the bottom end of the handle bars while a cushioning element is mounted on the lateral piece. When the handle bar is moved to the bottommost position, the connecting element presses against the cushioning element for achieving the expected cushioning effect, thereby preventing the operator's feet from shock caused by the reactive force of the elongated treadles.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2003Publication date: December 2, 2004Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
-
Patent number: 6821234Abstract: A motorized exercise and rehabilitation chair for pacing controlled movements of the legs and arms of a disabled user includes a chair supported above a reciprocating platform having a frontal spring biased footrest for exercising the knee and ankle joints and armrest that orbit in a circular pattern for exercising the elbow and shoulder joints of the user. The user may select and vary the operating speeds of the platform and armrests from a control unit swivel mounted in front of the chair.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: November 23, 2004Inventor: Raymond L. Barbee
-
Publication number: 20040198563Abstract: A multi-functional exercise apparatus for exercising arms, shoulders and trunk of a user. This exercise apparatus may include a stationary bicycle support platform and includes an upper body assembly which is movably engaged to and extended about the bicycle's seat mount. An arm-shoulder device is movably engaged to the upper body assembly. By providing such exercise apparatus, a user can move the upper body assembly with respect to the bicycle's seat mount to exercise the user's trunk while moving the arm-shoulder device to exercise the arms and shoulders. The user can independently or simultaneously rotate the bicycle's foot pedals with the user's legs to exercise the same for a more complete workout.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2003Publication date: October 7, 2004Inventors: Norman L. Howell, Steven R. Burke, Paul T. Wilkins
-
Publication number: 20040192522Abstract: An antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim overall body exercise machine that allows virtually every muscle in the body to work anaerobically or aerobically, at the user's choosing, while the user is lying down on their back to take pressure off the user's spine, and working most muscles through a nominal or up to a full range of motion at the user's choosing, which motions can be in one of several directions or arcs at the user's choosing. The machine includes a base frame with parallel frame adjustable lengths and supporting cross segments horizontally and vertically to a second parallel frame length above the first, the entire base frame having a first end and a second end, the first end having frame adjustments to accept length and tension adjustable arm apparatuses with handles, the second end having frame adjustments to accept length and tension adjustable leg apparatuses with pedals.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2004Publication date: September 30, 2004Inventor: Joseph B. Hippensteel
-
Patent number: 6793609Abstract: An improved stationary exercise cycle comprised of a handlebar and a saddle respectively installed at two extremities of a swing rod, a base support rod to which the anterior extremity of the swing rod is hinged, a push arm extending downward from the posterior extremity of the swing rod, and a guide wheel disposed at the lower end of the push arm that contacts a polygonal drive wheel over the axle of the bottom bracket shell on the base. When a person treadles the pedals and thereby rotates the polygonal drive wheel, the guide wheel contacts the polygonal drive wheel and the support rod on the base serves as a fulcrum on which the swing rod pivots upward and downward in a seesaw fashion, with the handlebar and the saddle at the two extremities of the swing rod alternately rising and falling such that the user not only strengthens both legs, but also invigorates the arms and entire body, thereby providing for a massage-like yet effective and comprehensive physical exercise routine.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2003Date of Patent: September 21, 2004Inventor: Jeeng-Neng Fan
-
Patent number: 6790162Abstract: A recumbent stepper is provided for exercising the lower body and the upper body and includes a frame and a seat attached to the frame. First and second lower body lever arrangements are pivotally coupled to the frame to move in first and second opposite directions and are adapted to be engaged by an exerciser's feet. First and second upper body lever arrangements are pivotally coupled to the frame to move in the first and second directions and are adapted to be engaged by the exerciser's arms. A resistance structure is commonly connected to each of the lever arrangements for resisting pivoting movement of each lever arrangement in one of the first and second directions. Motion transfer structure is mounted on the frame and coupled to each of the lever arrangements and the resistance structure for enabling independent movement of each lever arrangement relative to the remaining lever arrangements.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 2001Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: Northland Industries, Inc.Inventors: Patrick D. Ellis, Fred A. Malicki
-
Publication number: 20040166996Abstract: A resistance unit for an exercise device, such as a bicycle trainer, includes a magnetic member which cooperates with a rotating electrically conductive member to establish eddy current resistance to rotation of a rotatable member forming a part of the resistance unit. The resistance unit includes a body to which the rotatable member is mounted, and an adjustment mechanism is interconnected with the magnetic member and the body for adjusting the position of the magnetic member relative to the electrically conductive member, to adjust the eddy current resistance experienced by the rotatable member. The magnetic member is movably mounted within a passage defined by the body, and the adjustment mechanism includes a manually operable actuator which is accessible from the exterior of the body. The actuator is rotatable relative to the body, and rotation of the actuator functions to move the magnetic member toward and away from the electrically conductive member, to adjust the eddy current resistance.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2003Publication date: August 26, 2004Inventors: Clint D. Kolda, Chang Shin Pin
-
Publication number: 20040162191Abstract: An exercise device having a cushioning mechanism assembly configured to absorb energy during exercise is provided. According to one aspect of the present invention, the cushioning mechanism assembly comprises a first and second biasing apparatus having a spring element configured to absorb energy by undergoing elastic deformation. According to another aspect of the present invention, a lever cushioning apparatus is provided. In one embodiment, the lever cushioning apparatus includes a lever arm and a cushioning element that functions as a fulcrum of the lever arm. In another embodiment, the cushioning element is movable along the length of the elongate member to change the amount of cushioning provided by the cushioning element. By being movable, the cushioning element allows the user to select a desired amount of cushioning during exercise.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2003Publication date: August 19, 2004Inventors: Gaylen Ercanbrack, Darren Zaugg, Kurt Finlayson, William T. Dalebout
-
Publication number: 20040157708Abstract: An easily-assembled bicycle for use by bed-ridden persons is provided. In an embodiment, the present invention is capable of being used in conjunction with both adjustable and non-adjustable beds or other person support. The present invention allows for hand or leg exercises or simultaneous hand and leg exercising (pedaling). In an embodiment, the bicycle includes an anchoring base unit, a top-side unit, a foot-pedal unit and a hand-pedal unit. Use of the present invention allows bed-ridden persons to exercise without depending on health-care workers and helps avoid the serious negative health consequences associated with lack of physical exercise (e.g., loss of muscle strength, calcium depletion, pulmonary embolism and bed sores).Type: ApplicationFiled: November 25, 2003Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: George J. Matthews
-
Publication number: 20040157706Abstract: An exercise device includes a first and a second foot link configured to receive a user's foot. A coupling member directs a first end of each of the foot links in an arcuate path, and a guide directs a second end of each foot link in a back and forth path of travel. The device includes an active support which is operable to displace the back and forth path of travel of the second ends of the foot link so that that path of travel is non-reciprocal.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 20, 2004Publication date: August 12, 2004Inventor: Larry D. Miller
-
Patent number: 6764432Abstract: An antigravity full range of motion four limb dry swim overall body exercise machine that allows virtually every muscle in the body to work anaerobically or aerobically, at the user's choosing, while the user is lying down on their back to take pressure off the user's spine, and working most muscles through a nominal or up to a full range of motion at the user's choosing, which motions can be in one of several directions or arcs at the user's choosing. The machine includes a base frame with parallel frame adjustable lengths and supporting cross segments horizontally and vertically to a second parallel frame length above the first, the entire base frame having a first end and a second end, the first end having frame adjustments to accept length and tension adjustable arm apparatuses with handles, the second end having frame adjustments to accept length and tension adjustable leg apparatuses with pedals.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2002Date of Patent: July 20, 2004Inventor: Joseph B. Hippensteel