Abstract: A motorized exercise apparatus energized by a power source. An electronically commutated motor drives the exercise apparatus. A commutation switch selectively connects the power source to the motor and conducts a switch current when the power supply is connected to the motor. A safety shutdown switch responds to a safety shutdown signal. The safety shutdown switch has a first mode wherein the power source is connected to the motor, and a second mode wherein the power source is disconnected from the motor. A threshold circuit associated with the commutation switch generates a switch current signal representative of switch current. The threshold circuit comprises a threshold detector responsive to the switch current signal for generating the safety shutdown signal and placing and maintaining the safety shutdown switch in the second mode when the switch current signal indicates the switch current is above a threshold.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the torque of an exercise machine acting on a user is disclosed. The invention determines the torque which the user is able to exert at different positions and velocities, and develops a strength model of the user. Based on the strength model of the user, the invention determines a desired velocity profile for the user's exercise. The velocity profile may be chosen to maximize the amount of power output by the user or to provide whatever other type of exercise specified. The invention then controls the torque acting on the user so that the exercise is accomplished according to the desired velocity profile.

Abstract: A physical exercise video system includes a physical exercise machine (22), a video system (24) and an interface module (26). The video system (24) has a computer (28) and a removable cartridge (34). The interface module (26) is interposed between the computer (28) and cartridge (34), and provides interactive communications between the computer (28) and exercise machine (22). A communication protocol governs this communication, and includes specifications for status and command data packets. The video system (24) and exercise machine (22) can be selectively operated as either stand-alone units, or in an interactive exercise mode, wherein the exercise data by the exercise machine (22) affects the output of the video system (24), and may also be stored in memory within the interface module (26). The video system (24) controls the operation of the exercise machine (22) generally, and specifically, controls the load resistance imposed in opposition to the movement of pedals (66).

Abstract: A device for connecting fitness equipment such as an exercise bicycle to a computer equipped with a game control device including a continuously variable resistance (e.g. industry standard architecture computers such as IBM PC/AT and compatibles equipped with a joystick adapter). The two states of the exercise bicycle (pedaling or not pedaling) are converted to the three states required by racing simulations (braking, coasting, accelerating) by means of a non-linear element in such a way that pedaling at speeds lower than a certain cross-over value is converted to various degrees of braking while pedaling at speeds higher than this value is converted to various degrees of acceleration. The cross-over pedaling speed which is converted to a resistance equal to that of a joystick in its middle position is lower than half the maximum speed. Within the range of possible pedaling speeds of the exercise bicycle, a smaller portion is used for braking and a greater portion is used for accelerating.

Abstract: A user-motion-response type exercise equipment capable of changing the moving speed of the moving belt surface so as to follow the running speed of the runner from the start to end of running. The equipment includes an endless belt mechanism having a moving surface for the user (runner) to walk or run on, a driving mechanism for driving the endless belt mechanism to move the moving belt surface at a speed in accordance with a control signal supplied externally, a position detector for detecting the user's position on the moving belt surface, and a controller for performing a control action combining a proportional control action and an integral control action in parallel in accordance with the user's position on the moving belt surface detected by the position detector as the controlled variable, and generating a control signal supplied externally to the driving mechanism and sending the control signal to the driving mechanism.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus having a pair of speed control drums coaxial with a variable speed motor driven shaft is disclosed. A force control drum is mounted to a gear box via which the motor is linked to the shaft. A cable is wound about the force control drum, with one of the free ends of the cable being connected to a force spring. A user-controlled cable is wound about the speed control drums so that by pulling on the cable, the speed control drums rotate with respect to the shaft. Movement of the user controlled cable above a pre-set speed causes the force control drum to wind cable in a manner that extends the force spring. The apparatus permits the user to control both the magnitude of machine resistance encountered and the speed with which loads are obtained.

Abstract: A biofeedback system for training the abdominal muscles uses a belt or waistband with a buckle which includes switches, at least one switch modifying a music tape source which is, for example, mounted on the belt. The belt buckle is expandable so that with the abdominal muscles (abs) relaxed, a switch will be in one position, and with the abs tensed, it will be in another, to appropriately modify the sound source. This is fed back to the user via the headphones so that when he recognized the modification the user will be encouraged to re-tense the abs.

Abstract: A strength and exercise apparatus that provides an opposing resistive force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying exerted force created by the user. The apparatus will also have the ability to create an exerted force which in its total will always only equal the potential and varying resistive force provided by the user.

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand which includes apparatus for detecting the cardinal movements of the hand and translating the movements into rotational data for the system, the apparatus for detecting effectively isolating the movements of the hand so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also generally includes a mechanism for providing a selective variable resistance to the apparatus for detecting and for ascertaining the force applied to the apparatus for detecting by the movements of the hand.

Abstract: A computerized exercise game machine provides continuous and instantaneous feedback to the exerciser or user to maintain the user's exercise goal in real time. The exercise goal is updated by the computer system each time the user uses the exercise game machine. The machine includes a fixed frame and moveable component. A signal is generated in response to the speed of movement of the moveable component. The user or exerciser is prompted to maintain a video object representing the user within a shadow object or domain on the video screen. The shadow object represents the exercise goal, such as running at five miles per hour. Different video objects are utilized for users of different physical fitness levels. A shadow object (domain) or course environment is associated with each different video object. The game machine may also provide feedback to the exercise device to control the speed of movement or resistance to movement, slope, such as raising or lowering a treadmill or curve simulation.

Abstract: An exercise apparatus combined with a video game computer that allows the exerciser to interactively participate in the video game whereby the exerciser's advancement in the video game depends on his rate of exercise and hand-eye coordination. The exercise apparatus provides entertainment and a positive mental distraction from the boring physical exercising experience by enabling multi-sensor feedback between the user and video game simulation. This exercise apparatus has the ability to interface with any exercise device that the user prefers and it will also work with non-equipment exercising methods.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the heart rate of a user of a fitness apparatus at a scheduled target rate by varying the resistance of a first resistance mechanism with respect to a second resistance mechanism. To increase the heart rate, the resistance of the first resistance mechanism is increased to a maximum level before an adjustment is made to the second resistance mechanism. To decrease the heart rate, the resistance of the second resistance mechanism is decreased to a minimum level before an adjustment is made to the first resistance mechanism. The invention may be incorporated into a treadmill having resistance mechanisms including a mechanism to vary the speed of the treadmill belt and a mechanism to vary the grade of the treadmill.

Abstract: A system for isolating, evaluating and exercising the muscle groups of the human hand, wrist, arm and shoulder including an adaptable detector for interpreting the cardinal movements of at least one muscle group of the hand during flexion, extension, or deviation of the wrist, or abduction, opposition, flexion or hyperextension of individual digits of the hand. The detector translates the movements of the muscle group into rotational data for the system and effectively isolates the movements of the muscle group so that the movements of other muscle groups of the body are not detected by the system. The system also includes a controlled resistance coupled to the detector which provides a variable resistance against the muscle group and ascertains the force applied to the detector by the movements of the one muscle group. The resistance can be varied to provide isotonic, isokinetic, or isometric modes of testing against said at least one muscle group.

Abstract: A physical exercise video system includes a physical exercise machine (22), a video system (24) and an interface module (26). The video system (24) has a computer (28) and a removable cartridge (34). The interface module (26) is interposed between the computer (28) and cartridge (34), and provides interactive communication between the computer (28) and exercise machine (22). A communication protocol governs this communication, and includes specifications for status and command data packets. The video system (24) and exercise machine (22) can be selectively operated as either stand-alone units, or in an interactive exercise mode, wherein the exercise data generated by the exercise machine (22) affects the output of the video system (24), and may also be stored in memory within the interface module (26). The video system (24) controls the operation of the exercise machine (22) generally, and specifically, controls the load resistance imposed in opposition to the movement of pedals (66).

Abstract: An extension arm (11) can be fixed to a column (2) at any height and with different inclinations. A foot holder (15, 16) is displaceably mounted on the extension arm and can be moved against the force of a traction cable (8) over the extension arm (11). A loading unit (4) programmable by means of an operating device (21) for selecting the load characteristics acts upon the traction cable. Alternatively, another extension arm for arm training can be mounted. Thus, different training varieties can be selected without the need of adjusting any weights or mechanisms. Different extension arms (11) may be provided which allow the adaptation of the apparatus to different training modes, such as leg, arm or body training.

Abstract: A control system controls a D.C. speed-change motor to change the transmission configurations on a treadmill transmission powered by an A.C. drive motor. The control system may be either microprocessor based or a system of discrete logical pieces. The control system responds to both the current speed of the treadmill belt and the electrical current drawn by the speed-change motor. The control system uses this information to modulate the duty cycle of voltage pulses sent to the D.C. speed-change motor to power the speed-change motor in response to a determination by the control system that the speed-change motor needs to rotate faster or slower to produce a controlled rate of speed change for the treadmill belt. The control system also includes a rapid deceleration system. In response to the user's direction or in response to the condition of the treadmill, the control system sends a high voltage to the D.C.

Abstract: Apparatus and method for the inspection of training in the martial arts. A simple, computer programable apparatus and method is provided for increasing training efficiency of athletes. The device may vary speed and direction to vary the rhythm and cadence of an athlete, and is capable of fast or slow speeds to keep pressing the athlete to operate at the limits of his aerobic conditioning.

Abstract: A high speed deceleration device and method is disclosed that operates on a D.C. speed-change motor used to change the transmission configurations on the transmission of a treadmill powered by a constant speed drive motor. In ordinary use, normal transmission acceleration and deceleration rates are used to speed up or slow down the treadmill belt. A deceleration control signal causes a high voltage to be provided to the D.C. speed-change motor. The high voltage causes the D.C. speed-change motor to rapidly change the transmission configurations on the treadmill which causes a rapid deceleration of the treadmill belt. The deceleration control signal is produced in response to a user direction or in response to the condition of the treadmill. Once the belt has been slowed below a threshold speed, the machine shuts itself off.

Abstract: The exercise device provides a continuous loop of rope which is slowly fed downwardly from the greater extent of a davit-like housing, and through an open space in which the climber will perform the climbing exercise. The rope then continues through a friction pulley configuration driven by a variable speed gear motor, and then upwardly through the davit-like housing to again travel through the open space. The speed of the motor can be controlled in a feed-forward manner where the user sets the speed, as in one training configuration where the speed of the rope is to be exceeded by the climber, or where the progress of the climber movement may be determined by sensors which determine how close to a pre-determined height the climber has progressed.

Abstract: The invention interfaces a user-powered exercise machine to a personal computer, creating a dual-mode exercise and training system with new methods of pacing ones activity in order to achieve a goal. The user determines when the exercise period will end, and sets a goal. The computer constantly displays THE REQUIRED SPEED, which is the speed that will enable the user to achieve his goal. The CALCULATED FINAL OUTCOME predicts the outcome of the exercise period, assuming that the user will continue at his current speed for the remainder of the exercise period. The user always knows how fast he will have to go to reach his goal, and always knows what the outcome will be if he maintains his current speed. This allows the user to vary his speed and still maintain a regulated overall level of activity. In the STANDARD MODE, the exercise period is a period of time, and the goal is a TARGET DISTANCE. In the TRAINING MODE, the exercise period ends when the end of the course is reached, and the goal is a TARGET TIME.

Abstract: When a lap switch is operated, data of a lap time stored in a register T is stored in a lap register pointed out by a pointer PR. An average pace for a section of a course is calculated on the basis of data of a step count for that section stored in a register H and data on the lap time for that section stored in the register T. Data on a calculated average pace is stored in a lap register. A pace difference between the present and the immediately preceding average pace is calculated and data on the pace difference is stored in an appropriate lap register. Thereafter, the pointer PR is incremented by one.

Abstract: Exercise treadmill with motor driven tread belt and means for varying the tread belt speed by a speed control system which makes available to the treadmill user a plurality of nominal speeds and also a plurality of rates of restoration of the tread belt speed upon the occurrence of a change in load on the moving tread belt resulting from the user's foot plant impact on the tread belt. By selection by the user of one of the plurality of available rates of restoration of tread belt speed, the user through the user operated speed control can select a desired "stiffness" or "softness", otherwise known as "feel", to reduce user foot plant induced stress or trauma. The preferred speed control system involves a variable speed DC motor with a microprocessor controlled SCR phase control power module, the microprocessor including program memory with plural sets of program values, each with respective delta gain, loop gain and maximum power values.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for maintaining the heart rate of a user of a fitness apparatus at a scheduled target rate by varying the resistance of a first resistance mechanism with respect to a second resistance mechanism. To increase the heart rate, the resistance of the first resistance mechanism is increased to a maximum level before an adjustment is made to the second resistance mechanism. To decrease the heart rate, the resistance of the second resistance mechanism is decreased to a minimum level before an adjustment is made to the first resistance mechanism. The invention may be incorporated into a treadmill having resistance mechanisms including a mechanism to vary the speed of the treadmill belt and a mechanism to vary the grade of the treadmill.

Abstract: A fitness device (22, 37, 41) is provided with a display type readout which can be viewed by a user, and a user's heart rate is determined to lie within a range so that the user could be required to work the equipment within that range. That range may vary with age of the user, and the "mode" of training which is itself determined by the user's general fitness. The device (22, 37, 41) comprises a movement resistance device (25), a digital encoder (28) attached to the device which provides digital pulses, and a microprocessor (30) which is programmed to readout (14) an output as a "distance" which is proportional to the number of pulses over the time taken to travel a "distance" which is preset into the machine.

Abstract: A recumbent bilateral reciprocal isokinetic leg exerciser wherein first and second reciprocating members are slidingly coupled to a linear track so that they move with linear bilateral reciprocal motion. Both reciprocating members are coupled to associated hydraulic cylinders so that hydraulic fluid is drawn into or forced out of the hydraulic cylinders as the reciprocating members move along the track. A valve assembly is coupled to the hydraulic cylinders for controlling fluid flow into and out of the hydraulic cylinders so that the reciprocating members move isokinetically. The valve assembly may be set for simultaneous movement of the first and second reciprocating members or for movement of one reciprocating member by itself. To ensure accurate measurement of patient effort, a strain gauge assembly is disposed on each reciprocating member for detecting deformation of the reciprocating member along multiple axes.

Abstract: An exerciser for disabled persons has a seat-footrest-arm support system that is driven by a motor and an offset crank drive. This drive works to move the seat and footrest in opposite directions, i.e., when the seat is down, the footrest is up and vice versa. This allows patient to go from a compressed state to a fully extended state during each crank cycle. By securing the patient's arms to stationary support bars, the arms are also similarly flexed and extended during the cycle. The device has speed control to operate at reasonable speeds during the workout. A second embodiment of the invention uses VELCRO covered mitts to secure the patient's hands to a VELCRO covered leg strap. In this way, the patient's arms will follow the movement of the patient's legs.

Abstract: Provided is a training equipment, comprising a fixed part, a movable part that is movable by a user relative to the fixed part in a first direction corresponding to a correct training pattern and a second direction corresponding to a deviation from the correct training pattern, and an indicator which notifies the user any deviation from the correct training pattern by using a visual, acoustic, or tactile signal. Optionally, the load or the resistance to the movement of the moveable part in the first direction may be increased with the increase in the deviation from the correct training pattern. Thereby, the user can develop highly efficient muscle power with the correct form and distribution of power because he is notified of any deviation from a correct form or a correct distribution of power substantially simultaneously in such a manner as may be considered as a feedback process.

Abstract: A recumbent bilateral reciprocal isokinetic leg exerciser wherein first and second reciprocating members are slidingly coupled to a linear track so that they move with linear bilateral reciprocal motion. Both reciprocating members are coupled to associated hydraulic cylinders so that hydraulic fluid is drawn into or forced out of the hydraulic cylinders as the reciprocating members move along the track. A valve assembly is coupled to the hydraulic cylinders for controlling fluid flow into and out of the hydraulic cylinders so that the reciprocating members move isokinetically. The valve assembly may be set for simultaneous movement of the first and second reciprocating members or for movement of one reciprocating member by itself. To ensure accurate measurement of patient effort, a strain gauge assembly is disposed on each reciprocating member for detecting deformation of the reciprocating member along multiple axes.

Abstract: A motor-driven treadmill includes a stationary ultrasonic range finder which continuously measures the distance to the torso of a person walking or running on the moving tread of the treadmill. When the person approaches too closely to the front of the treadmill, the treadmill speed and/or the treadmill slope are increased; and when the person retreats too far away from the front of the treadmill, the treadmill speed and/or the treadmill slope are decreased. The response of the treadmill speed and/or slope control system may be improved by making the controller responsive to the rate of change of the distance between the person using the treadmill and the front of the treadmill, so as to provide anticipation of the distances which will be traversed by the user of the treadmill.

Abstract: A control system controls a D.C. speed-change motor to change the transmission configurations on a treadmill transmission powered by an A.C. drive motor. The control system may be either microprocessor based or a system of discrete logical pieces. The control system responds to both the current speed of the treadmill belt and the electrical current drawn by the speed-change motor. The control system uses this information to modulate the duty cycle of voltage pulses sent to the D.C. speed-change motor to power the speed-change motor in response to a determination by the control system that the speed-change motor needs to rotate faster or slower to produce a constant rate of speed change for the treadmill belt. The control system also includes a rapid deceleration system. In response to the user's direction or in response to the condition of the treadmill, the control system sends a high voltage to the D.C.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the instantaneous power generated by a leg extension, which includes a seat provided above a drive system unit on which a subject is seated. A slide rail extends forwardly from the drive system unit, and a foot plate slides along the slide rail in forward and backward directions. A rope connected to the foot plate is provided in the drive system unit in order to be paid out in response to the forward sliding movement of the foot plate. This apparatus also includes a transmission device, which rotates in response to the rope paying-out and a powder brake, which is rotated by the transmission device. A foot load sensor is also mounted on the foot plate in order to detect the foot load developed when the subject extends his/her legs, and a rotation frequency sensor is provided at a predetermined position within the drive system unit in order to detect the rotation frequency of the powder brake.

Abstract: An exercising device combining an inclinable treadmill with an upper body exercising assembly having two or more sets of levers with handles. The resistance loading of each set of levers may be independently controlled and varied. This device combines strength training with aerobic exercise. Computerized controls and monitors are used. The device may be used in a weightless environment.

Abstract: A step type exercise apparatus is disclosed in which two pedal members are connected for reciprocating movement by a chain which, in turn, operates through a transmission providing a resistive force to the pedals. The resistive force is supplied by an alternator which is controlled by a computer. Means are provided to lubricate the chain thereby prolonging the life of the chain.

Abstract: The simulated climbing wall of the present invention is comprised of a frame, at least two guide members rotatably attached at the top of the frame, and a chain structure, including a plurality of climbing wall panels, each wall panel having a removable surface panel, wherein each wall panel is flexibly attached to the next in a continuous chain. The chain structure is guided by the guide members such that the simulated climbing wall has an orientation with respect to vertical that corresponds to the orientation of the guide members such that the pitch angle of the climbing wall is adjustable and such that the panels may be moved downwardly in a controlled manner as the climber climbs.

Abstract: A control system includes an adjustment knob to regulate the resistance of the exercise machine such as a treadmill, rowing machine, or stationary exercise cycle. Various indicia are positioned proximate the knob so the user may specifically select an exercise program and real time feedback of exercise performance through the use an ear clip supplying pulse information or other biological data which is converted and displayed for observation by the user.

Abstract: An exercising device combining an inclinable treadmill with an upper body exercising assembly having two or more sets of levers with handles. The resistance loading of each set of levers may be independently controlled and varied. This device combines strength training which aerobic exercise. Computerized controls and monitors are used. The device may be used in a weightless environment.

Abstract: A motorized mobile robot carries a person and is articulated and controlled by joysticks and foot pedals or by remote control to simulate the sport of boxing by effecting punches and blocks upon a like robot. Fluid motor driven wheels propel the robot in forward, rearward, lateral, turning, and spinning movements. An upper frame above the wheel base defines an enclosure having a generally humanoid configuration including a torso with an interior seat for supporting a person within the enclosure in a sitting position. A pair of independently movable arm assemblies connected at each side of the torso are driven by fluid actuators and each has a shoulder portion pivotally movable relative to the torso, an upper arm portion pivotally movable relative to the shoulder portion, and a forearm portion pivotally movable relative to the upper arm portion with a padded boxing glove at the outer end.