Utilizing Specific Resistance Generating Structure Patents (Class 482/63)
  • Patent number: 8025611
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus includes a frame for residing on a horizontal surface, a pair of arm-supporting members for supporting the user's arms and a pair of leg-supporting members for supporting the user's legs. A linkage assembly couples the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members to the frame and moves the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members in closed paths relative to the frame in response to user forces applied to the arm-supporting members and leg-supporting members. The linkage assembly includes actuators for adjusting dimensions of the closed paths in response to control signal inputs. Sensors mounted on the linkage assembly generate force-indicating signals representing one or more of the user force. A user interface receives and processes the force-indicating signals and supplies the control signal inputs to the actuators, wherein a dimension of at least one of the closed paths is a function of at least one of the forces applied to the leg and arm-supporting members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Inventors: Joseph D Maresh, Kenneth W Stearns
  • Publication number: 20110172064
    Abstract: An exercise apparatus and method of use for a total body workout. The exercise apparatus includes at least one stationary exercise equipment directed for lower body exercise, and at least one resistance device for upper body exercise deployed over the at least one stationary exercise equipment. Also included is a system adapted for providing a total body workout for an indoor cycling class that includes a plurality of stationary indoor cycling bikes and a plurality of resistance bands, one set of resistance bands deployed over each of the plurality of stationary indoor cycling bikes. The system enables users of the plurality of stationary indoor cycling bikes and resistance devices to simultaneously exercise the upper and lower body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 13, 2011
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Inventors: Elizabeth P. Cutler, Julie J. Rice
  • Patent number: 7976434
    Abstract: A control system and method for exercise equipment and the like provides a way to simulate a physical activity in a manner that takes into account the physics of the physical activity being simulated to provide an accurate simulation. According to one aspect of the present invention, the control system and method takes into account the physics of the corresponding physical activity to generate a virtual or predicted value of a variable such as velocity, acceleration, force, or the like. The difference between the virtual or expected physical variable and a measured variable is used as a control input to control resistance forces of the exercise equipment in a way that causes the user to experience forces that are the same or similar to the forces that would be encountered if the user were actually performing the physical activity being simulated rather than using the exercise equipment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Inventors: Scott B. Radow, Frank D. Sundermeyer
  • Publication number: 20110143887
    Abstract: An exercise bicycle wherein when rotating the wheels by rotating pedals, the user feels the bicycle moving forward and being tilted left and right as whe n riding a bicycle outdoors, and also feels as if the user is riding on a slope, a plain road, etc., thus preventing the user from feeling monotonous and tedious a nd allowing the user to feel as if the user is riding a bicycle outdoors, thereby increasing the amount of exercise.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Inventor: Jang Won Choi
  • Patent number: 7955228
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer provides variable resistance to pedaling and allows for a rider to simulate a real-world bicycle course. The trainer engages both the front tire and the back tire of the bicycle and adjusts each according to the rider's preferences during a training session. The front tire lifts up and down as the bicycle moves forward and backward on the trainer. The back tire is adjusted by incorporating magnets thereon in the form of magnetic elements on a sleeve or a clip that engages the back tire and/or the back tire rim. The magnets on the back tire may also be attached to the spokes. The trainer includes magnets as well, usually of opposite polarity, and adds resistance to pedaling when the magnetic fields of the magnets interact to resist back tire revolution.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Inventor: Brian H. Hamilton
  • Publication number: 20110077125
    Abstract: Presented is a bike fitting and diagnostic machine with adjustable rider contact points of the saddle, the pedals, and the handlebars. Adjustments can be made while the rider pedals, and while the rider's output is measured in watts, calories, heart rate, or other units. Optimal bike fit parameters are determined to help a rider select a well fitting bike or have one made to his specifications.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 27, 2010
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Todd N. KENYON
  • Patent number: 7901334
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus with an adjustable resistance assembly. The adjustable resistance assembly has a screw portion. An user can rotate an operating portion which is connected to one end of the screw portion to move the screw portion to drive a pushing portion toward a rotating member which is pivotally connected on the exercise apparatus. Simultaneously, the pushing portion drives an elastic member to cause deformation and make a friction surface of a resistance member which is connected on the elastic member gradually press the rotating member therefore increases friction resistance. When the user rotates the operating portion reversely, the screw portion is moved outward the rotating member and the elastic member recovered from the deformation thereby decreases the friction resistance relative to the rotating member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2011
    Assignee: Johnson Health Tech Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuei-Sen Chen, Joe Chen
  • Publication number: 20110028277
    Abstract: A seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a seat attached to the frame. A pair of opposed cranks are rotatably coupled to the frame such that they rotate about a first axis. A medial portion of each of a pair of elongated members is rotatably connected to the frame at a second axis. A first end of each elongated member has a handle and a second end of each elongated member is rotatably connected to a one end of a respective pedal arm. The handles may be adjustable to invert the handles from an upper position to a lower position. The other end of each pedal arm is in turn rotatably connected to a respective crank. Each pedal arm also has a pedal adapted to receive a user's foot. In operation, the apparatus provides the user with coordinated seated exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 6, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Christopher Merli
  • Patent number: 7874957
    Abstract: An integrated sensor apparatus capable of detecting exercise equipment parameters such as power output and cadence is designed so as to be easily retrofittable to existing equipment. To the extent that a particular sensor uses friction measurement, it can supplant an existing friction causing device on the equipment. Additionally, the sensor can communicate, wirelessly if desired, with a processing device. The processing device is capable of receiving and processing a plurality of sensor signals. The processing device can then output processed signals to a display, so that a plurality of people joining in a group exercise or competition can easily track their relative performance in real-time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Artis, LLC
    Inventors: Elisa Hurwitz, Keith W. Brendley
  • Publication number: 20100323850
    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 slidably received within the collar that may be positioned therein by sliding. A locking assembly is coupled to the collar and operable to lock the member in a selected position within the collar, release the member from the locked position, and when released, 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. The engagement members are moveable relative to one another and biased by the cam against member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2010
    Publication date: December 23, 2010
    Applicant: Lemond Fitness, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert J. Bingham, JR., Ryan P. Selby, Neil P. Everson, Paul A. Robertson
  • Patent number: 7850577
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism may be positioned in engagement with a slave sprocket of a drive train and a hub of a flywheel to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold. When the drive train is actuated in the forward direction, the slave sprocket and the hub may move together, and when the drive train is actuated in the rearward direction under the influence of a force greater than the break-free force threshold, the clutch mechanism may slip between the slave sprocket and the hub, allowing the slave sprocket and the flywheel to move independently of one another. The clutch mechanism may also include a spring tensioner whereby the break-free force may be adjusted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Warner, Michael H. Harding, Mu-Chuan Wu, Andy Baker
  • Patent number: 7845475
    Abstract: The present invention provides a controller for a magnetic wheel, which is added with an alternated adjusting seat within the external rotary disk of the magnetic wheel controller. A flexible locker of alternated adjusting seat can be flexibly locked into second latch groove of external rotary disk. When a cam shaft of a tester has not reached a signal locating point, but the cable of magnetic component has been fixed during initial assembly of the magnetic wheel and controller, the flexible lock is flexibly locked with a second latch groove, such that the external rotary disk and alternated adjusting seat will continue to rotate until the tester senses the locating signal. Thus, no manual adjustment of cable is required in order to shorten assembly time and improve manufacturing efficiency for a higher practicability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 7, 2010
    Assignee: Her Yuan Chyun Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsien-Mo Lin
  • Publication number: 20100298103
    Abstract: The invention is a bicycle trainer to which a standard bicycle temporarily attaches for exercise and simulated rides. A lifting mechanism raises and lowers the front tire, and in preferred embodiments, a frame engages the rear tire to hold the rear tire in an elevated position against a resistance cylinder. The resistance cylinder provides a force against rear tire revolution and varies the resistance to pedaling. The resistance cylinder can vary resistance against back tire revolution by pumping a resistance fluid into and out of the cylinder, by changing the position of the resistance cylinder in relation to the back tire, or by translation of the bicycle back and forth. In other embodiments, the trainer is electronically controlled to simulate real-world geographical courses programmed into a readable format for electronically maneuvering front tire and back tire positions as necessary to provide resistance to pedaling.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2010
    Publication date: November 25, 2010
    Inventor: Brian H. Hamilton
  • Patent number: 7815551
    Abstract: A seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a seat attached to the frame. A pair of opposed cranks are rotatably coupled to the frame such that they rotate about a first axis. A medial portion of each of a pair of elongated members are rotatably connected to the frame at a second axis. A first end of each elongated member has a handle and a second end of each elongated member is rotatably connected to a one end of a respective pedal arm. The other end of each pedal arm is in turn rotatably connected to a respective crank. Each pedal arm also has a pedal adapted to receive a user's foot. In operation, the apparatus provides the user with coordinated seated exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet. The feet move in a generally reciprocating up and down motion and the arms move in a coordinated generally arcuate motion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Inventor: Christopher R Merli
  • Patent number: 7806810
    Abstract: A bicycle simulation system that can be easily transported includes a frame, a steering handle operated by a rider, a left-right pair of pedals to be operated by the rider for rotating a flywheel, two front forks for supporting the head tube and a rotatable rear wheel. The rear wheel is grounded on a floor so that it supports the frame, together with the front forks. The bicycle simulation system ensures that the operations of a brake lever are accompanied with the same feeling as that in operating a real bicycle. A brake lever is operated by the rider with a drum brake for frictionally braking the rotation of the flywheel in conjunction with the brake lever. A brake wire extending from the brake lever and is branched into two brake wires, one connected to the drum brake, and the other connected to the rotational sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2006
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Ryukou Hanaya, Atsushi Yonehana
  • Patent number: 7789808
    Abstract: An exercising device includes a front frame, a resistance flywheel mounted rotatably on the front frame, a drive wheel connected drivingly to the resistance flywheel, a crank wheel, a shaft connected rotatably to the front frame and extending centrally through the drive wheel and eccentrically through the crank wheel for co-rotating the drive wheel and the crank wheel, two pedal units connected respectively to left and right ends of the shaft, a handle assembly mounted on top of the front frame, a rear frame extending rearwardly from the front frame, a slide seat mounted slidably on the rear frame, a chair supported on the slide seat, and a link mechanism connected to and disposed between the slide seat and the crank wheel. The link mechanism is driven by the crank wheels as to move forward and rearward the slide seat.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventor: Sunny Lee
  • Patent number: 7785236
    Abstract: The present invention discloses an exerciser having magnets adjusting device, which comprises a frame assembly, a flywheel, a driving assembly, a power transmission mechanism and a magnets adjusting device. The magnets adjusting device includes a guiding rail, a sliding unit with magnetic units, and a control mechanism. The guiding rail is fixed on the frame assembly. The sliding unit is mounted on the guiding rail so that the sliding unit and the magnetic units can be linearly moved along the guiding rail. The control mechanism controls the reciprocated movement of the sliding unit and the magnetic units linearly close to or away from the axis of the flywheel. Whereby, to improve the stability of the adjusted variable damping and accurately calculate the corresponding resistance after the adjustment, and to enhance the durability of the machine can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2010
    Inventor: Chiu-Hsiang Lo
  • Publication number: 20100179030
    Abstract: A flywheel mounting assembly for an exercise bicycle has a flywheel, a housing, at least one bearing, a holder and a hub. The housing defines a mounting space and an inner surface. The at least one bearing is mounted in the mounting space of the housing. The holder is tubular, has a mounting hole, an end rotatably mounted in the at least one bearing and an end extending through and being mounted securely with the flywheel. The hub is mounted securely in the mounting hole of the holder and has an axle extending through a center of the hub. Accordingly, weight and rotation of the flywheel is supported by the housing and stress is equally sustained by the housing, bearing, holder and hub. Therefore, deformation or distortion may be effectively prevented for smooth and stable flywheel rotation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: HOUNG CHENG ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.,
    Inventor: Shu-Chiung Liao Lai
  • Patent number: 7749139
    Abstract: An elliptical cross trainer having a double-recessed crank in match of a load-coupling mechanism installed at the external side of a crank support. In this way, the gap of two pedal planks arranged parallel to each other can be reduced, thereby achieving the natural opening space of both human feet. Meanwhile, a hanging support together with suspension arm is connected with two pedal planks such that the pedal planks can create an optimal exercise path corresponding to the exercise pace of both human feet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Inventor: Leao Wang
  • Patent number: 7740565
    Abstract: A driving and resistance device for stationary bikes includes a frame including two boards between which a flywheel is located, a shaft extends through the flywheel and the two boards. A driving wheel is mounted to the shaft and drives the flywheel. The driving unit includes a first belt, a second belt, an idle wheel unit, an intermediate wheel unit and a passive wheel, the passive wheel is connected to a sleeve which is secured to the shaft. The driving wheel is driven by rotating the cranks on two ends of the shaft and the first belt, the intermediate wheel unit, the second belt, the passive wheel, the sleeve and the flywheel are driven in sequence. Because the driving wheel and the flywheel share the same shaft so that the driving and resistance device is compact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 22, 2010
    Inventor: Yi-Yen Chen
  • Patent number: 7727125
    Abstract: An exercise machine and a method for its use in training selected muscle groups by controlled use of brakes to resist crank movement adjustably at specific and adjustable controlled positions in the rotation of a crank. A control system may be incorporated to cause brake mechanisms to apply varying amounts of resistance to a pair of pedal-driven cranks to simulate the efforts required to ride an actual bicycle over a course including various upslopes and down-slopes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2010
    Inventor: Franklin J. Day
  • Patent number: 7708251
    Abstract: The present invention is a seat height adjustment mechanism for exercise equipment having a seat. Examples of such exercise equipment include: stationary exercise bicycles; road or mountain type bicycles; resistance strength training supporting racks or platforms (e.g., preacher curl benches, military or shoulder press racks, etc.) for use with free weights; and resistance strength training machines that employ as resistance weight plates, deflectable members, elastic bands, springs, hydraulic cylinders, pneumatic cylinders, etc. The mechanism comprises a member, a telescopic member, and an engagement member. The member extends upwardly and includes a rack. The telescopic member includes a first end telescopically received in the member and a seat end. The engagement member is coupled to the telescopic member and adapted to engage the rack.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Jonathan B. Watt, Jonathan Harrach-Salazar, Mark N. Holtan
  • Patent number: 7682292
    Abstract: A flywheel-type variable resistance generating device for an exercising apparatus includes two actuating arms disposed outboard of a flywheel, a pulling cord having two anchoring ends coupled with a tightening-force adjusting member and a lever, and two pull-activating members connected to the pulling cord so as to move the actuating arms. The actuating arms are movable among a starting position where they are disengaged from the flywheel, an adjusted position where they are partially engaged with the flywheel, and a braking position where they are fully engaged with the flywheel. When the lever is operated to move one anchoring end with a braking force, the other anchoring end of the pulling cord is pulled back to its initial locus to move the actuating arms to the starting position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2010
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Hai Lo
  • Publication number: 20100069205
    Abstract: A magnetic resistance device for an exerciser includes a flywheel rotatably attached to a base with a spindle, a number of magnetic members attached to an outer peripheral rim of the flywheel, a carrier attached to the base, a magnetic attractive arm having one end attached to the carrier, and a handle actuatable cable coupled to the other end of the magnetic attractive arm for pivoting and moving the magnetic attractive arm toward and away from the magnetic members and the flywheel and for adjusting a magnetic retarding force applied to the flywheel, and for allowing the heat generated by the magnetic members to be easily and quickly dissipated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Publication date: March 18, 2010
    Inventors: Ta Chang Lee, Yi Hsiung Tai
  • Publication number: 20100009815
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an exercise apparatus with an adjustable resistance assembly. The adjustable resistance assembly has a screw portion. An user can rotate an operating portion which is connected to one end of the screw portion to move the screw portion to drive a pushing portion toward a rotating member which is pivotally connected on the exercise apparatus. Simultaneously, the pushing portion drives an elastic member to cause deformation and make a friction surface of a resistance member which is connected on the elastic member gradually press the rotating member therefore increases friction resistance. When the user rotates the operating portion reversely, the screw portion is moved outward the rotating member and the elastic member recovered from the deformation thereby decreases the friction resistance relative to the rotating member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 12, 2008
    Publication date: January 14, 2010
    Inventors: Kuei-Sen Chen, Joe Chen
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20090291811
    Abstract: A clutch mechanism may be positioned in engagement with a slave sprocket of a drive train and a hub of a flywheel to create a frictional engagement between the sprocket and the hub, and to establish a break-free force threshold. When the drive train is actuated in the forward direction, the slave sprocket and the hub may move together, and when the drive train is actuated in the rearward direction under the influence of a force greater than the break-free force threshold, the clutch mechanism may slip between the slave sprocket and the hub, allowing the slave sprocket and the flywheel to move independently of one another. The clutch mechanism may also include a spring tensioner whereby the break-free force may be adjusted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 4, 2009
    Publication date: November 26, 2009
    Applicant: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Warner, Michael H. Harding, Mu-Chuan Wu, Andy Baker
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7588518
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for increasing locomotor muscle size and strength at low training intensities using eccentric ergometry.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 15, 2009
    Inventors: Paul LaStayo, Stan Lindstedt, Hans Hoppeler
  • Patent number: 7585258
    Abstract: An exercise system includes a user input arrangement; a rotatable member that rotates in response to an input force applied by a user on the user input arrangement; a power sensing arrangement that senses power applied to the rotatable member due to the input force applied by the user; and a variable resistance arrangement interconnected with the power sensing arrangement and with the user input arrangement. The resistance arrangement applies resistance to rotation of the rotatable member, and is variable in response to the power sensing arrangement to vary the resistance applied to the rotatable member. The variable resistance arrangement may be a brake that interacts with the rotatable member to resist rotation of the rotatable member, and to thereby resist the input force applied by the user. The variable resistance arrangement includes a controller for controlling the brake in response to the power sensing arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Saris Cycling Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward M. Watson, David L. Wendt, Clint D. Kolda
  • Patent number: 7585251
    Abstract: An exercise machine that varies a resistive load based on sensed changes in intensity of exercise. In one example, an electronic control system of a stationary bicycle adjusts a flywheel resistive load based on changes in the user's pedal cadence. During the exercise routine, subsequent increases or decreases in the pedal cadence cause, respectively, increases or decreases in the flywheel resistive load. In addition, the control system may execute the exercise routine after actuation of a single input key. In another embodiment, the user may simply start to exercise. The electronic control system may calculate a default flywheel resistive load based on initialization parameters, such as demographic data and/or exercise preferences.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2009
    Assignee: Unisen Inc.
    Inventors: James M. Doody, Jr., Kevin P. Corbalis, Gregory Allen Wallace
  • 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: 20090149300
    Abstract: A driving and resistance device for stationary bikes includes a frame including two boards between which a flywheel is located, a shaft extends through the flywheel and the two boards. A driving wheel is mounted to the shaft and drives the flywheel. The driving unit includes a first belt, a second belt, an idle wheel unit, an intermediate wheel unit and a passive wheel, the passive wheel is connected to a sleeve which is secured to the shaft. The driving wheel is driven by rotating the cranks on two ends of the shaft and the first belt, the intermediate wheel unit, the second belt, the passive wheel, the sleeve and the flywheel are driven in sequence. Because the driving wheel and the flywheel share the same shaft so that the driving and resistance device is compact.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 17, 2008
    Publication date: June 11, 2009
    Inventor: Yi-Yen Chen
  • Patent number: 7530933
    Abstract: A resistance generating device includes a friction wheel adapted to frictionally engage a bicycle wheel of a training bicycle to be rotated therewith, a first magnetically attractive member, and a second magnetically attractive member which is rotated with the friction wheel, and which is disposed to be spaced apart from the first magnetically attractive member. The first and second magnetically attractive members are configured to be shiftable towards or away from each other in response to the higher or lower speed of the second magnetically attractive member so as to increase or decrease a magnetically induced resistance force generated therebetween to be imparted to the bicycle wheel. The actuating mechanism is disposed to effect the relative shifting movement in response to the higher speed to force the first and second magnetically attractive members towards each other, thereby increasing the resistance force.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Giant Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Johnny Chen
  • Publication number: 20090075786
    Abstract: A seated exercise apparatus comprises a frame having a seat attached to the frame. A pair of opposed cranks are rotatably coupled to the frame such that they rotate about a first axis. A medial portion of each of a pair of elongated members are rotatably connected to the frame at a second axis. A first end of each elongated member has a handle and a second end of each elongated member is rotatably connected to a one end of a respective pedal arm. The other end of each pedal arm is in turn rotatably connected to a respective crank. Each pedal arm also has a pedal adapted to receive a user's foot. In operation, the apparatus provides the user with coordinated seated exercise of both the arms/hands and legs/feet. The feet move in a generally reciprocating up and down motion and the arms move in a coordinated generally arcuate motion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Publication date: March 19, 2009
    Inventor: Christopher R. Merli
  • Patent number: 7488275
    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 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Assignee: Nautilus, Inc.
    Inventors: Patrick Warner, Michael H. Harding, Mu-Chuan Wu, William A. Baker
  • Publication number: 20090036275
    Abstract: A power-supplying and shock-absorbing device for an exerciser consists of a bracket and a dynamo. The dynamo generates electricity for the exerciser, and the bracket is connected with the dynamo and the exerciser by plural elastic members, which can provide different shock-absorbing and buffering effects on different positions of the bracket. By such arrangements, better shock-absorbing and buffering effect can be provided to the dynamo.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Publication date: February 5, 2009
    Inventor: Chi-Chang Hsiao
  • Publication number: 20090029832
    Abstract: A brake assembly for exercise cycling apparatus comprises rotor means (2) with at least one pair of magnetic elements (4, 4?) adapted to be rotated about a longitudinal axis (X) by a user who applies a driving torque thereon, stator means (3) adapted to cooperate with the at least one pair of magnetic elements (4, 4?) to generate a resistance torque adapted to oppose the above driving torque, guide means (7) associated to the rotor means (2) to cause translation of the magnet elements (4, 4?) along respective directions (d, d?) having at least one radial component to cause variation of the resistance torque proportionally to the driving torque. The magnetic elements (4, 4?) are reciprocally coupled to make the displacement thereof along directions (d, d?) mutually dependent and with substantially the same length (l, l?).
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Publication date: January 29, 2009
    Applicant: ELITE S.R.L.
    Inventor: Almerigo Sartore
  • Patent number: 7470220
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer is a bicycle-mounted apparatus used to produce friction to resist the turning of a wheel of a bicycle, thereby requiring the rider to exert more energy than would otherwise be necessary. The bicycle trainer is adjustable by the rider while riding, and can simulate hill or mountain climbing at any positive grade.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Inventor: Ricardo Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7468022
    Abstract: The present invention provides a bidirectional linkage single damping mechanism suitable for a leg exerciser. The invention includes a circular drive element, which shifts circularly to define a first section and a second section in opposite motion directions. A brake swinging arm, provided with a coupling end and a swinging end. The coupling end is connected with a treading rotation axis; and the swinging end is connected with either section. The two sections drive separately two drive pulleys. A bidirectional drive pulley assembly has two rotary pulleys and two drive pulleys connected by a unidirectional bearing. The bidirectional drive pulley assembly then drives a damping wheel assembly. With this invention, it is possible to provide a damping mechanism that can be connected with the leg exercisers for an improved resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Assignee: Hexon Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hung-Min Liang
  • Publication number: 20080261781
    Abstract: An exercise machine includes a supporting stage; a saddle arranged relatively for said supporting stage; a pedaling stage with a pair of pedals arranged relatively for said supporting stage; and a handle arranged relatively for said supporting stage. The pedaling stage is configured such that the pair of pedals are connected with one another via a first air pump.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 14, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Inventor: Iwao Yamazaki
  • Publication number: 20080261775
    Abstract: A wheel assembly of an exercise machine includes a base having a fixed disk. A flywheel is provided on the base. A damper, which is provided on the fixed disk, has a displacement mechanism and a magnet assembly connected to the displacement mechanism and moved by the displacement mechanism toward or away from the flywheel. A motor is provided on the fixed disk and connected to the displacement mechanism for adjusting a position of the magnet assembly. A control circuit, which has a processor, an angle sensor connected to the processor and a memory, is connected to the motor and the damper to sense the position of the magnet assembly and control the motor driving the displacement mechanism to adjust the position of the magnet assembly. Therefore, the memory stores resistance parameters of presetting the magnet assembly acting on the flywheel to achieve the presetting function.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 27, 2007
    Publication date: October 23, 2008
    Applicant: FEGO PRECISION INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Chin-Hsiung Chang, Ming-Hui Jao, Po-Jen Chang
  • Publication number: 20080234112
    Abstract: A bicycle trainer is a bicycle-mounted apparatus used to produce friction to resist the turning of a wheel of a bicycle, thereby requiring the rider to exert more energy than would otherwise be necessary. The bicycle trainer is adjustable by the rider while riding, and can simulate hill or mountain climbing at any positive grade.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2007
    Publication date: September 25, 2008
    Inventor: Ricardo Hernandez
  • Patent number: 7419458
    Abstract: A new and unique highly adjustable stationary exercise bicycle is presented incorporating a number of features specifically designed for youthful stationary bicycle users. The improvements over the prior art include infinitely adjustable vertical and horizontal seat heights and handlebar heights which are secured in their positions by a quick release lever rather than the standard pop pins. Also included is a lubrication port that allows the surface between the friction member and the working wheel to be lubricated. An emergency brake for the working wheel as well as a quick way to disengage the working wheel from the pedals is provided. Special pedal cage brackets are placed around each pedal so that the youth's use of such an exercise bicycle is made much more safely. All of the above elements combine to make this stationary exercise bicycle safe for use by children or adolescents.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2008
    Assignee: STS World Concept Ltd.
    Inventor: John Forcillo
  • Publication number: 20080161168
    Abstract: A power generating structure of an exerciser is disclosed to include a driving wheel, a crank and pedal assembly for pedaling by the user to rotate the driving wheel, a gravity wheel, a first transmission belt coupled between the driving wheel and the gravity wheel, a big idle wheel fixedly provided at one side of the gravity wheel, a power generator, a small idle wheel provided at one side of the power generator, and a second transmission belt coupled between the big idle wheel and the small idle wheel for driving the power generator to generate electricity upon rotation of the gravity wheel by the driving wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2006
    Publication date: July 3, 2008
    Inventor: Shih-Wen Hsiao
  • Patent number: 7364537
    Abstract: A wind resistance mechanism for an exercise apparatus is provided which includes a plurality of bendable blades for changing the form of the wind-facing side thereof or adjusting the wind-facing angle. A movable clamping device includes a hub supported on an output shaft of an exercise apparatus. A first and a second disc are mounted on the hub. At least one of both discs performs a reciprocating movement in axial direction. An external force is applied to the discs for changing the form of the wind-facing side of the blades or adjusting the wind-facing angle, thereby adjusting the wind resistance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventors: Leao Wang, Peter Wu
  • Patent number: 7351187
    Abstract: An exercise device includes pedals, a belt and a hydro-kinetic brake. A user applies muscular force to the pedals and the pedal belt transfers the motion of the pedals to a flywheel shaft of the fluid brake. The pedals may be configured to accept force from a hand, foot, arm, leg and/or neck of the user. The amount of work performed by the user is derived by measuring the relative rotational speeds of two radial-blade impellers of the fluid brake. The wattage exhibited by the fluid brake during the exercise session may be recorded and associated with an identified user, whereby records of the exercise performance of an individual may be updated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Inventor: Joseph Seliber
  • Patent number: 7335137
    Abstract: A drive system for a magnetic resistance exerciser includes a fixed wheel and at least one rotatable wheel which are rotatably connected to the weight wheel and the fixed wheel by two respective belts. The fixed wheel and the weight wheel share a common shaft which is perpendicularly connected with a link and the at least one rotatable wheel is rotatably connected to an extension on an end of the link. When rotating the shaft, the link rotates and the at least one rotatable wheel rotates about the shaft and the extension simultaneously so that the rotational speed of the weight wheel can be increased without increasing the whole system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2008
    Inventor: Chang Ming Wu
  • Patent number: 7314434
    Abstract: A damper adjusting device is mounted on a base of an exercise apparatus, including a resistance wheel, a pivoting member, a driving mechanism, and a biasing member. The resistance wheel is rotatably mounted on the base. The pivoting member is pivotably mounted on the base, having a driven portion and a resistance portion. The driving mechanism is mounted on the base, having a rotatable turntable and a lug formed on the turntable and spaced from a center of the turntable. The biasing member generates resilience for keeping the driven portion contacting against the lug. Accordingly, when the lug is driven to move to further drive the pivoting member to pivot for an angle, the distance between the resistance portion and the resistance wheel is also changed to shift the resistance generated while the resistance wheel turns.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2008
    Inventor: Chao-Chuan Chen
  • Publication number: 20070281837
    Abstract: The present invention provides a controller for a magnetic wheel, which is added with an alternated adjusting seat within the external rotary disk of the magnetic wheel controller. A flexible locker of alternated adjusting seat can be flexibly locked into second latch groove of external rotary disk. When a cam shaft of a tester has not reached a signal locating point, but the cable of magnetic component has been fixed during initial assembly of the magnetic wheel and controller, the flexible lock is flexibly locked with a second latch groove, such that the external rotary disk and alternated adjusting seat will continue to rotate until the tester senses the locating signal. Thus, no manual adjustment of cable is required in order to shorten assembly time and improve manufacturing efficiency for a higher practicability.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 19, 2006
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: Her Yuan Chyun Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hsien-Mo Lin