CA2090061A1 - Low impact exercise apparatus - Google Patents
Low impact exercise apparatusInfo
- Publication number
- CA2090061A1 CA2090061A1 CA002090061A CA2090061A CA2090061A1 CA 2090061 A1 CA2090061 A1 CA 2090061A1 CA 002090061 A CA002090061 A CA 002090061A CA 2090061 A CA2090061 A CA 2090061A CA 2090061 A1 CA2090061 A1 CA 2090061A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- drum
- foot pedal
- exercise apparatus
- foot
- friction
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Classifications
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0048—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis
- A63B22/0056—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with cantilevered support elements pivoting about an axis the pivoting movement being in a vertical plane, e.g. steppers with a horizontal axis
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/00058—Mechanical means for varying the resistance
- A63B21/00069—Setting or adjusting the resistance level; Compensating for a preload prior to use, e.g. changing length of resistance or adjusting a valve
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/012—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using frictional force-resisters
- A63B21/018—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using frictional force-resisters including a rope or other flexible element moving relative to the surface of elements
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B21/00—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices
- A63B21/40—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof
- A63B21/4041—Interfaces with the user related to strength training; Details thereof characterised by the movements of the interface
- A63B21/4047—Pivoting movement
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0025—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs
- A63B2022/0033—Lower limbs performing together the same movement, e.g. on a single support element
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B22/00—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements
- A63B22/0025—Particular aspects relating to the orientation of movement paths of the limbs relative to the body; Relative relationship between the movements of the limbs
- A63B2022/0038—One foot moving independently from the other, i.e. there is no link between the movements of the feet
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A63—SPORTS; GAMES; AMUSEMENTS
- A63B—APPARATUS FOR PHYSICAL TRAINING, GYMNASTICS, SWIMMING, CLIMBING, OR FENCING; BALL GAMES; TRAINING EQUIPMENT
- A63B69/00—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports
- A63B69/18—Training appliances or apparatus for special sports for skiing
Abstract
ABSTRACT
An exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing, stair hopping and downhill skiing is disclosed.
The apparatus includes a base with a vertical support extending upwardly therefrom and a handrail supported by the vertical support. Two foot pedals are pivotally connected to the vertical support. Each foot pedal has a roller chain connected at one end to the foot pedal. A
spring is connected between the other end of each roller chain and the foot pedal at a position spaced from the point of connection of the roller chain. The two roller chains are looped over drive chain sprockets which are rotatably mounted by clutch bearings on a shaft in spaced apart relation. The drive shaft extends through and is rigidly secured to a friction drum. A chord is looped around the drum between a spring bias and a length adjustable rod thereby forming a variable resistance mechanism. Depressing the foot pedals results in the clutch bearings engaging the shaft thereby rotating the friction drum. The force required to depress the foot pedals is set, by adjusting the resistance mechanism.
Releasing the foot pedal causes the bearing to disengage from the shaft and the bias springs return the pedal to the up position. Both pedals can be depressed simultaneously to simulate stair hopping, or separately to simulated stair climbing. Downhill skiing can be simulated by attachment of a platform to the foot pedals having a rotatable table mounted thereon. Hopping and twisting simulates skiing.
An exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing, stair hopping and downhill skiing is disclosed.
The apparatus includes a base with a vertical support extending upwardly therefrom and a handrail supported by the vertical support. Two foot pedals are pivotally connected to the vertical support. Each foot pedal has a roller chain connected at one end to the foot pedal. A
spring is connected between the other end of each roller chain and the foot pedal at a position spaced from the point of connection of the roller chain. The two roller chains are looped over drive chain sprockets which are rotatably mounted by clutch bearings on a shaft in spaced apart relation. The drive shaft extends through and is rigidly secured to a friction drum. A chord is looped around the drum between a spring bias and a length adjustable rod thereby forming a variable resistance mechanism. Depressing the foot pedals results in the clutch bearings engaging the shaft thereby rotating the friction drum. The force required to depress the foot pedals is set, by adjusting the resistance mechanism.
Releasing the foot pedal causes the bearing to disengage from the shaft and the bias springs return the pedal to the up position. Both pedals can be depressed simultaneously to simulate stair hopping, or separately to simulated stair climbing. Downhill skiing can be simulated by attachment of a platform to the foot pedals having a rotatable table mounted thereon. Hopping and twisting simulates skiing.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a low impact exercise apparatus for stair climbing, stair hopping, downhill skiing exercises, and the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Exercise equipment for simulating stair climbing is well known. One type of apparatus is directed only to stair climbing applications while another type includes additional equipment for simul~aneously exercising certain muscles of the upper body. The resistance forces are generated in these devices using hydraulic cylinders including shock absorbers or electromagnetic means and as a consequence require regular maintenance. A drawback to the use of hydraulic cylinders is that the cylinder offers resistance to both extension and retraction, so that the foot pedals are usually pivoted together in some fashion whereby the user stepping on one pedal is assisting in moving the other pedal to the undepressed position.
Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide an exercise apparatus which can be utilized to provide a multiplicity of exercise motions that give both an aerobic and anaerobic type of workout and that will exercise the arms, legs and upper body, and which is sturdy, inexpensive to manufacture and requires minimal maintenance.
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SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides low impact exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing, stair hopping, downhill skiiny or for controlled arm dips. The apparatus includes a frame having a base for resting on a supporting surface. A pair of laterally spaced foot pedals are pivotally attached to the frame with each foot pedal being independently operable. Included are means for upwardly biasing said pedals and a friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedals is provided.
The friction brake means comprises a friction drum rotatably mounted on the frame and includes a drive belt means connecting each foot pedal and the friction drum for drivlng the friction drum in one direction when at least one of the foot pedals is depressed. The device includes a tension cable means operably coupled to the drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum. The fristion drum has a hard outer cylindrical surface and the device includes means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with the friction drum.
In another aspect of the invention there is provided a low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing. The apparatus includes a frame having a handrail and a base for resting on a supporting surface.
Included is a at least one foot pedal pivotally attached to the frame. The apparatus is provided with means for upwardly biasing the at least one foot pedal. There is :~.- . . . . .
included a friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedal. The friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on the frame.
A drive belt means connects the at least one foot pedal and the friction drum for driving the friction drum in one direction when at least one of the at least one foot pedal is depressed. The apparatus includes a tension cable means operably coupled to the drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum. The friction drum has a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of the tension cable means with the friction drum. The apparatus includes swivel means removably mounted on the at least one foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
BRIEF D~SCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The following is a description, by way of example only, of various embodiments of the exercise apparatus of the present invention, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exercise apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention showing one pedal depressed as if in operation;
Figure 2 is a side elevation of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a ~, .
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."
:, , friction braka assembly forming part of the present invention;
Figure 4 is a sectional view of the friction brake taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a device similar to Figure 5 for simulating downhill skiing;
Figure 7 is a perspective view, broken away, of an alternative embodiment of a braking means forming part of the subject invention;
Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the stair hopping device using the braking means illustrated in Figure 7; and Figure 9 is another embodiment of a braking means forming part of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown an exercise apparatus 10 embodying the sub;ect invention.
Exercise apparatus 10 i5 provided with a frame comprising a generally U-shaped base member 12 provided with two parallel spaced arms 14 and 16 which are connected by a third arm 18. The frame includes a substantially vertical support member 20 connected to, and extending upwardly from arm 18. Apparatus 10 includes a hand-rail 22 having a U-shaped portion 24 spaced above and generally parallel to :
:
A
base 12 and hand-rail 22 incudes vertical portions 26 and 28 secured to arms 14 and 16 respectively. The parallel arms of the U-shaped portion 24 are spaced a predetermined distance which is greater than the average shoulder width so that it may be comfortably gripped for doing tricep dips as will be discussed below.
Apparatus 10 is provided with a pair of generally parallel foot pedals 30 and 32 each of which is pivotally attached at one end thereof to vertical support member 20 by pivot pins 34 and 36 respectively at a distance spaced above arm 18. Foot pedals 30 and 32 are provided with non-skid foot pads 38 and 40 respectively mounted thereto at the ends of the pedals spaced from the pivotal connectionO
A pair of stop brackets 42 and 44 are secured to upright member 20 and positioned to limit the upward swing of pedals 30 and 32 respectively.
Referring to Figures 3 and 4, exercise apparatus 10 includes a friction brake assembly shown generally at 50. The friction brake assembly includes a friction drum 52 having a shaft 54 extending therethrough along the drum longitudinal axis and rigidly secured to the drum. Shaft 54 is rotatably mounted through bearings 56 and 58 which are in turn mounted in support arms 60 and 62. Support arms 60 and 62 are rigidly secured to a housing frame 64.
A pair of drive chain sprockets 70 and 72 are mounted on shaft 54, one on each side of drum 52. Drive chain sprockets 70 and 72 each contains a clutch bearing 74 and 76 respectively which is rotatably mounted on shaft 54.
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: . . . :, . : ~. , ~- : , Locking collars 78 and 80 are mounted on the ends of shaft 54 in order to lock sprockets 70 and 72 in place on the shaft.
Friction brake assembly 50 includes a tension cable 106 and a cable tightening means, which in this embodiment includes a tension adjustment knob 90 carrying a threaded shaft 92 secured thereto. Knob 90 is maintained a fixed distance from frame 64 by a sleeve 94. Threaded shaft 92 is threaded through one end of a turnbuckle 96.
A stop bracket 98 is rigidly secured to frame 64 and lies ad;acent turnbuckle 96 in order to prevent the turnbuckle from rotating when knob 90 is rotated. An eye bolt 100 extends from the other end of turnbuckle 96 and is rigidly secured thereto. Friction brake assembly 50 is provided with a bias spring 104 secured to frame 64. Tension cable 106 interconnects spring 104 and eye bolt 100 with a plurality of loops engaging drum 52. In one embodiment tension cable 106 is looped to form four circumferential passes around drum 52.
While tension cable 106 has been described as being one long cable looped back and forth between eye bolt 100 and spring 104, it will be understood that it could also comprise a plurallty of parallel chords extending between the eye bolt and the spring and wrapped around the drum. In addition, cable 106 could also comprise a wide belt looped around drum 52 between eye bolt 100 and spring 104.
Friction brake assembly 50 is operably coupled to A
foot pedals 30 and 32 by drive belt means, which in this embodiment comprise roller chains 110 and 112 respectively.
The roller chains are each connected at one end thereof to the foot pedals and are looped over and engage chain sprockets 70 and 72. The other ends of roller chains 110 and 112 are secured to bias springs 114 and 116 which in turn are attached to foot pedals 30 and 32 respectively at points spaced from the connections of the other ends of the chains to the pedals.
Preferably, tension cable 106 is fabricated of a high strength, low stretch, heat resistant aromatic polyamide fiber, commonly known as an aramid fiber and marketed under the trade marks of KEVLAR (Dupont), TECHNORA
in Japan and TWARON in the Netherlands. This material is readily able to withstand the heat generated during rotation of the drum.
In this embodiment friction drum 52 is preferably fabricated of steel and is provided with a chxome plating to provide a hardened drum surface that will withstand, without significant wear, the very high pressures exerted by chord 106. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other similar hardened coatings may be used rather than chromium.
In operation, as a user steps down on raised foot pedal 32, chain 112 drives chain sprocket 72 so that clutch bearing 76 engages shaft 54 thereby rotating chain sprocket 72 counterclockwise (as seen in Figure 3). The tension or resistance offered to the foot pedals by friction brake 50 , ..... .. ~ . , ~;: , . : . . ...
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is increased by rotating tension knob 90 so that turnbuckle ' 96 and eye bolt 100 are drawn upwards toward the knob which acts to tighten cord 106 looped around drum 52 thereby giving rise to increased tension. When the user raises his or her left leg drive chain 112 rotates drive sprocket 72 clockwise thereby disengaging clutch bearing 76 from drive shaft 54. When this occurs, spring 116 returns foot pedal 32 to the up position which is reached when pedal 32 abuts stop bracket 44. Foot pedal 30 operates in an analogous fashion independent of pedal 32.
A user may simulate stair walking by adjusting the tension of tension cable 106 by rotating knob 90, standing on foot pedals 30 and 32, gripping the upper hand-rail portion 24 and then "walking" on the spot. With tension cable 106 appropriately adjusted, the user will experience resistance against the pedals being pushed down which acts to simulate stair climbing.
In order to simulate stair hopping by jumping with both feet apart but moving up and down together, ~he user grips the upper portion 24 of the hand-rail and "hops" up and down. Wlth tension cable 106 appropriately ad~usted, the user will experience a resistance to both pedals 30 and 32 being depressed downwards at the same time which acts to simulate stair hopping.
In order to perform controlled arm dips, the user stands on foot pedals 30 and 32 and grips hand-rail portion 24 and does tricep dips by bending at the elbows. With tension cable 106 appropriately adjusted the user will not freely drop due to the resistance offered by the foot pedals, and the user will not have to lift his or her entire body weight from the lower position since springs 114 and 116 will aid in lifting the user as the springs return pedals 30 and 32 to the up position. In this way, controlled dips may be performed wherein the effective weight on the user's arms during the down and up movement is less than the user's body weight and is adjustable.
Referring now to Figure 5, another embodiment of a low impact exercise apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown at 130 which is similar to apparatus 10 of Figures 1 and 2 but modified to provide downhill skiing simulation exercises. Apparatus 130 includes a swivel means which in this embodiment includes a platform 132 with guides 134 and 136 attached to the underside of the platform to receive pedals 30 and 32. A
locking pin 138 mounted in platform 132 engages a hole (not shown~ in pedal 30 to lock platform 132 in place. A table 140 is rotatably mounted on platform 132 and is provided with left and right foot rests 142 and 144 respectively.
In the operation of the embodiment of Figure 5, to simulate downhill skiing and mogul type skiing the user stands on foot rests 142 and 144, grips handrail portions 24 and operates both feet in unison similar to the stair hopping exercise described above while at the same time rotating the feet to the left on one hop and then to the right on the next hop. Repeating this routine over and over agaln closely simulates the side-to-side and up/down ,, . .. - ,,: ,, . ~
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motion the body experiences in downhill skiing.
Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a swivel means comprising a thin sheet of stainless steel 154 secured to the underside of rotating table 140 and secured to the top of platform 132 are strips of ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) plastic 155. This sandwich construction provides low resistance with high loads. A
hand operated handle 138 ~s attached to a rod extending through table 140 and platform 132 and is provided for adjusting the tension of the swivel mechanism which is advantageous for building strength and flexibility.
Referring to 7, an alternative embodiment of a friction brake means is shown generally at 300. Friction brake means 300 comprises a rod 302 secured to a pair of springs 304 which in turn are attached to brackets 306 secured to frame 20. A plurality of tension cables 310 are attached to rod 302, loop around friction drum, and are hooked over a rod 312. Rod 302 is rigidly attached to an internally threaded tube 316 and a threaded shaft 318 is threadably received into shaft 318. A handle 320 is attached to a collar 322 which has a diameter greater than an aperture 324 extending through a bracket 326 for receiving therethrough shaft 318. In this way, turning handle 320 causes tube 316 to rise or fall thereby increasing or decreasing the tension on cable 310 to increase or decrease the braking effect on drum 52. Guide bracket 328 maintains the travel of rod 312 vertical.
Figure 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of : a stair climbing device generally at 330 utilizing the braking means illustrated in Figure 7. A microcomputer 332 may be incorporated for providing readouts of velocity, time and the like.
5Referring to Figure 9, an alternative brake system comprises a brake tension cord 400 attached at one end to a large spring 402 which is attached to the frame 20' and at the other end to a cord tensioning device 404. A pair of pulleys 410 are mounted side-by-side on the pedals and 10a pulley 414 is mounted on frame 20'. Cord 420 is connected to a pulley (not shown) behind the brake drum 52.
While the low impact exercise apparatus embodying the sub;ect invention has been described and illustrated with respect to the preferred embodiment, it will be 15appreciated that numerous variations of these embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention described herein.
The present invention relates to a low impact exercise apparatus for stair climbing, stair hopping, downhill skiing exercises, and the like.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Exercise equipment for simulating stair climbing is well known. One type of apparatus is directed only to stair climbing applications while another type includes additional equipment for simul~aneously exercising certain muscles of the upper body. The resistance forces are generated in these devices using hydraulic cylinders including shock absorbers or electromagnetic means and as a consequence require regular maintenance. A drawback to the use of hydraulic cylinders is that the cylinder offers resistance to both extension and retraction, so that the foot pedals are usually pivoted together in some fashion whereby the user stepping on one pedal is assisting in moving the other pedal to the undepressed position.
Accordingly, it would be advantageous to provide an exercise apparatus which can be utilized to provide a multiplicity of exercise motions that give both an aerobic and anaerobic type of workout and that will exercise the arms, legs and upper body, and which is sturdy, inexpensive to manufacture and requires minimal maintenance.
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: ': i , , . , ' , ';''.' ~ ' , . :, , , ' ','',;'' " '' '' , ' . ,, : ' _, . .", : ,' , ~
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention provides low impact exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing, stair hopping, downhill skiiny or for controlled arm dips. The apparatus includes a frame having a base for resting on a supporting surface. A pair of laterally spaced foot pedals are pivotally attached to the frame with each foot pedal being independently operable. Included are means for upwardly biasing said pedals and a friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedals is provided.
The friction brake means comprises a friction drum rotatably mounted on the frame and includes a drive belt means connecting each foot pedal and the friction drum for drivlng the friction drum in one direction when at least one of the foot pedals is depressed. The device includes a tension cable means operably coupled to the drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum. The fristion drum has a hard outer cylindrical surface and the device includes means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with the friction drum.
In another aspect of the invention there is provided a low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing. The apparatus includes a frame having a handrail and a base for resting on a supporting surface.
Included is a at least one foot pedal pivotally attached to the frame. The apparatus is provided with means for upwardly biasing the at least one foot pedal. There is :~.- . . . . .
included a friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedal. The friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on the frame.
A drive belt means connects the at least one foot pedal and the friction drum for driving the friction drum in one direction when at least one of the at least one foot pedal is depressed. The apparatus includes a tension cable means operably coupled to the drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum. The friction drum has a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of the tension cable means with the friction drum. The apparatus includes swivel means removably mounted on the at least one foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
BRIEF D~SCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The following is a description, by way of example only, of various embodiments of the exercise apparatus of the present invention, reference being had to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of an exercise apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention showing one pedal depressed as if in operation;
Figure 2 is a side elevation of the apparatus shown in Figure 1;
Figure 3 is a perspective view of a portion of a ~, .
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:, , friction braka assembly forming part of the present invention;
Figure 4 is a sectional view of the friction brake taken along line 4-4 of Figure 3;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of a device similar to Figure 5 for simulating downhill skiing;
Figure 7 is a perspective view, broken away, of an alternative embodiment of a braking means forming part of the subject invention;
Figure 8 is a side elevational view of the stair hopping device using the braking means illustrated in Figure 7; and Figure 9 is another embodiment of a braking means forming part of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown an exercise apparatus 10 embodying the sub;ect invention.
Exercise apparatus 10 i5 provided with a frame comprising a generally U-shaped base member 12 provided with two parallel spaced arms 14 and 16 which are connected by a third arm 18. The frame includes a substantially vertical support member 20 connected to, and extending upwardly from arm 18. Apparatus 10 includes a hand-rail 22 having a U-shaped portion 24 spaced above and generally parallel to :
:
A
base 12 and hand-rail 22 incudes vertical portions 26 and 28 secured to arms 14 and 16 respectively. The parallel arms of the U-shaped portion 24 are spaced a predetermined distance which is greater than the average shoulder width so that it may be comfortably gripped for doing tricep dips as will be discussed below.
Apparatus 10 is provided with a pair of generally parallel foot pedals 30 and 32 each of which is pivotally attached at one end thereof to vertical support member 20 by pivot pins 34 and 36 respectively at a distance spaced above arm 18. Foot pedals 30 and 32 are provided with non-skid foot pads 38 and 40 respectively mounted thereto at the ends of the pedals spaced from the pivotal connectionO
A pair of stop brackets 42 and 44 are secured to upright member 20 and positioned to limit the upward swing of pedals 30 and 32 respectively.
Referring to Figures 3 and 4, exercise apparatus 10 includes a friction brake assembly shown generally at 50. The friction brake assembly includes a friction drum 52 having a shaft 54 extending therethrough along the drum longitudinal axis and rigidly secured to the drum. Shaft 54 is rotatably mounted through bearings 56 and 58 which are in turn mounted in support arms 60 and 62. Support arms 60 and 62 are rigidly secured to a housing frame 64.
A pair of drive chain sprockets 70 and 72 are mounted on shaft 54, one on each side of drum 52. Drive chain sprockets 70 and 72 each contains a clutch bearing 74 and 76 respectively which is rotatably mounted on shaft 54.
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: . . . :, . : ~. , ~- : , Locking collars 78 and 80 are mounted on the ends of shaft 54 in order to lock sprockets 70 and 72 in place on the shaft.
Friction brake assembly 50 includes a tension cable 106 and a cable tightening means, which in this embodiment includes a tension adjustment knob 90 carrying a threaded shaft 92 secured thereto. Knob 90 is maintained a fixed distance from frame 64 by a sleeve 94. Threaded shaft 92 is threaded through one end of a turnbuckle 96.
A stop bracket 98 is rigidly secured to frame 64 and lies ad;acent turnbuckle 96 in order to prevent the turnbuckle from rotating when knob 90 is rotated. An eye bolt 100 extends from the other end of turnbuckle 96 and is rigidly secured thereto. Friction brake assembly 50 is provided with a bias spring 104 secured to frame 64. Tension cable 106 interconnects spring 104 and eye bolt 100 with a plurality of loops engaging drum 52. In one embodiment tension cable 106 is looped to form four circumferential passes around drum 52.
While tension cable 106 has been described as being one long cable looped back and forth between eye bolt 100 and spring 104, it will be understood that it could also comprise a plurallty of parallel chords extending between the eye bolt and the spring and wrapped around the drum. In addition, cable 106 could also comprise a wide belt looped around drum 52 between eye bolt 100 and spring 104.
Friction brake assembly 50 is operably coupled to A
foot pedals 30 and 32 by drive belt means, which in this embodiment comprise roller chains 110 and 112 respectively.
The roller chains are each connected at one end thereof to the foot pedals and are looped over and engage chain sprockets 70 and 72. The other ends of roller chains 110 and 112 are secured to bias springs 114 and 116 which in turn are attached to foot pedals 30 and 32 respectively at points spaced from the connections of the other ends of the chains to the pedals.
Preferably, tension cable 106 is fabricated of a high strength, low stretch, heat resistant aromatic polyamide fiber, commonly known as an aramid fiber and marketed under the trade marks of KEVLAR (Dupont), TECHNORA
in Japan and TWARON in the Netherlands. This material is readily able to withstand the heat generated during rotation of the drum.
In this embodiment friction drum 52 is preferably fabricated of steel and is provided with a chxome plating to provide a hardened drum surface that will withstand, without significant wear, the very high pressures exerted by chord 106. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other similar hardened coatings may be used rather than chromium.
In operation, as a user steps down on raised foot pedal 32, chain 112 drives chain sprocket 72 so that clutch bearing 76 engages shaft 54 thereby rotating chain sprocket 72 counterclockwise (as seen in Figure 3). The tension or resistance offered to the foot pedals by friction brake 50 , ..... .. ~ . , ~;: , . : . . ...
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is increased by rotating tension knob 90 so that turnbuckle ' 96 and eye bolt 100 are drawn upwards toward the knob which acts to tighten cord 106 looped around drum 52 thereby giving rise to increased tension. When the user raises his or her left leg drive chain 112 rotates drive sprocket 72 clockwise thereby disengaging clutch bearing 76 from drive shaft 54. When this occurs, spring 116 returns foot pedal 32 to the up position which is reached when pedal 32 abuts stop bracket 44. Foot pedal 30 operates in an analogous fashion independent of pedal 32.
A user may simulate stair walking by adjusting the tension of tension cable 106 by rotating knob 90, standing on foot pedals 30 and 32, gripping the upper hand-rail portion 24 and then "walking" on the spot. With tension cable 106 appropriately adjusted, the user will experience resistance against the pedals being pushed down which acts to simulate stair climbing.
In order to simulate stair hopping by jumping with both feet apart but moving up and down together, ~he user grips the upper portion 24 of the hand-rail and "hops" up and down. Wlth tension cable 106 appropriately ad~usted, the user will experience a resistance to both pedals 30 and 32 being depressed downwards at the same time which acts to simulate stair hopping.
In order to perform controlled arm dips, the user stands on foot pedals 30 and 32 and grips hand-rail portion 24 and does tricep dips by bending at the elbows. With tension cable 106 appropriately adjusted the user will not freely drop due to the resistance offered by the foot pedals, and the user will not have to lift his or her entire body weight from the lower position since springs 114 and 116 will aid in lifting the user as the springs return pedals 30 and 32 to the up position. In this way, controlled dips may be performed wherein the effective weight on the user's arms during the down and up movement is less than the user's body weight and is adjustable.
Referring now to Figure 5, another embodiment of a low impact exercise apparatus constructed in accordance with the present invention is shown at 130 which is similar to apparatus 10 of Figures 1 and 2 but modified to provide downhill skiing simulation exercises. Apparatus 130 includes a swivel means which in this embodiment includes a platform 132 with guides 134 and 136 attached to the underside of the platform to receive pedals 30 and 32. A
locking pin 138 mounted in platform 132 engages a hole (not shown~ in pedal 30 to lock platform 132 in place. A table 140 is rotatably mounted on platform 132 and is provided with left and right foot rests 142 and 144 respectively.
In the operation of the embodiment of Figure 5, to simulate downhill skiing and mogul type skiing the user stands on foot rests 142 and 144, grips handrail portions 24 and operates both feet in unison similar to the stair hopping exercise described above while at the same time rotating the feet to the left on one hop and then to the right on the next hop. Repeating this routine over and over agaln closely simulates the side-to-side and up/down ,, . .. - ,,: ,, . ~
.. ~ , . . . ... . . .
motion the body experiences in downhill skiing.
Figure 6 shows an alternative embodiment of a swivel means comprising a thin sheet of stainless steel 154 secured to the underside of rotating table 140 and secured to the top of platform 132 are strips of ultra high molecular weight (UHMW) plastic 155. This sandwich construction provides low resistance with high loads. A
hand operated handle 138 ~s attached to a rod extending through table 140 and platform 132 and is provided for adjusting the tension of the swivel mechanism which is advantageous for building strength and flexibility.
Referring to 7, an alternative embodiment of a friction brake means is shown generally at 300. Friction brake means 300 comprises a rod 302 secured to a pair of springs 304 which in turn are attached to brackets 306 secured to frame 20. A plurality of tension cables 310 are attached to rod 302, loop around friction drum, and are hooked over a rod 312. Rod 302 is rigidly attached to an internally threaded tube 316 and a threaded shaft 318 is threadably received into shaft 318. A handle 320 is attached to a collar 322 which has a diameter greater than an aperture 324 extending through a bracket 326 for receiving therethrough shaft 318. In this way, turning handle 320 causes tube 316 to rise or fall thereby increasing or decreasing the tension on cable 310 to increase or decrease the braking effect on drum 52. Guide bracket 328 maintains the travel of rod 312 vertical.
Figure 8 illustrates an alternative embodiment of : a stair climbing device generally at 330 utilizing the braking means illustrated in Figure 7. A microcomputer 332 may be incorporated for providing readouts of velocity, time and the like.
5Referring to Figure 9, an alternative brake system comprises a brake tension cord 400 attached at one end to a large spring 402 which is attached to the frame 20' and at the other end to a cord tensioning device 404. A pair of pulleys 410 are mounted side-by-side on the pedals and 10a pulley 414 is mounted on frame 20'. Cord 420 is connected to a pulley (not shown) behind the brake drum 52.
While the low impact exercise apparatus embodying the sub;ect invention has been described and illustrated with respect to the preferred embodiment, it will be 15appreciated that numerous variations of these embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the invention described herein.
Claims (3)
1. A low impact exercise apparatus for simulating stair climbing and stair hopping, comprising:
a) a frame having a base for resting on a supporting surface;
b) a pair of laterally spaced foot pedals pivotally attached to the frame, each foot pedal being independently operable;
c) means for upwardly biasing said pedals; and d) friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedals, said friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on said frame, including drive belt means connecting each foot pedal and said friction drum for driving said friction drum in one direction when at least one of said foot pedals is depressed, including a tension cable means operably coupled to said drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum, said friction drum having a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with said friction drum.
a) a frame having a base for resting on a supporting surface;
b) a pair of laterally spaced foot pedals pivotally attached to the frame, each foot pedal being independently operable;
c) means for upwardly biasing said pedals; and d) friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedals, said friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on said frame, including drive belt means connecting each foot pedal and said friction drum for driving said friction drum in one direction when at least one of said foot pedals is depressed, including a tension cable means operably coupled to said drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum, said friction drum having a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with said friction drum.
2. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said tension cable means comprises a manually adjustable knob rotatably mounted to said frame, a turnbuckle, a threaded shaft secured at one end to the knob and the other end threadedly engaged through the turnbuckle, a spring attached at one end to said frame, the tension cable being attached at one end of the spring looped around the drum and attached at the other end to the turnbuckle, whereby rotating the knob in one direction tightens the cable about the friction drum and rotating the knob in the other direction loosens the cable.
3. An exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said tension cable is fabricated of a high strength heat resistant aramid fibre.
5. An exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said friction drum is fabricated of steel and is provided with a chrome plating to provide a hardened drum surface.
6. An exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the friction drum includes a shaft securely mounted along the longitudinal axis of said drum and extending from each end of said drum, the shaft being rotatably mounted on said frame, a pair of sprockets each having a clutch bearing, the sprockets being mounted on said shaft one on each side of said drum and each sprocket located one above each foot pedal, the drive belt means comprising a pair of roller chains looped one over each sprocket, whereby the clutch bearing engages said shaft when the foot pedal is depressed thereby rotating said shaft and friction drum, and the clutch bearing being disengaged from the shaft when the foot pedal is released.
7. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 including a handrail attached to said frame, wherein said handrail includes a pair of spaced portions thereof which are parallel to said base and spaced a predetermined distance above said base, said handrail being provided for performing controlled arm dips.
8. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said means for upwardly biasing said pedals comprises a pair of springs one associated with each foot pedal, each spring being attached at one end to the drive belt means and at the other end to the foot pedal at a position spaced from connection of the drive belt to the foot pedal.
9. An exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said frame includes a substantially vertically upright member extending between said base and said handrail, the foot pedals being pivotally attached one on each side of the vertical member a predetermined distance above said base.
10. An exercise apparatus according to claim 9 including a pair of stop brackets mounted on the vertical member and spaced one above each foot pedal for stopping the upward movement of said foot pedals.
11. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7 including swivel means removably mounted on said foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
12. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7 including swivel means removably mounted on said foot pedals, said swivel means comprises a platform, a swivel member rotatably mounted on the platform, means for securing said platform to said foot pedals, whereby, a user standing on said swivel member can swivel side-to-side.
13. A low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing, comprising:
a) a frame having a handrail and a base for resting on a supporting surface;
b) at least one foot pedal pivotally attached to the frame;
c) means for upwardly biasing said at least one foot pedal;
d) friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedal, said friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on said frame, including drive belt means connecting said at least one foot pedal and said friction drum for driving said friction drum in one direction when at least one of said at least one foot pedal is depressed, including a tension cable means operably coupled to said drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum, said friction drum having a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with said friction drum; and e) swivel means removably mounted on said at least one foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
14. An exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said swivel means comprises a platform, a swivel member rotatably mounted on the platform, means for securing said platform to said at least one foot pedal.
5. An exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said friction drum is fabricated of steel and is provided with a chrome plating to provide a hardened drum surface.
6. An exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the friction drum includes a shaft securely mounted along the longitudinal axis of said drum and extending from each end of said drum, the shaft being rotatably mounted on said frame, a pair of sprockets each having a clutch bearing, the sprockets being mounted on said shaft one on each side of said drum and each sprocket located one above each foot pedal, the drive belt means comprising a pair of roller chains looped one over each sprocket, whereby the clutch bearing engages said shaft when the foot pedal is depressed thereby rotating said shaft and friction drum, and the clutch bearing being disengaged from the shaft when the foot pedal is released.
7. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 including a handrail attached to said frame, wherein said handrail includes a pair of spaced portions thereof which are parallel to said base and spaced a predetermined distance above said base, said handrail being provided for performing controlled arm dips.
8. An exercise apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said means for upwardly biasing said pedals comprises a pair of springs one associated with each foot pedal, each spring being attached at one end to the drive belt means and at the other end to the foot pedal at a position spaced from connection of the drive belt to the foot pedal.
9. An exercise apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said frame includes a substantially vertically upright member extending between said base and said handrail, the foot pedals being pivotally attached one on each side of the vertical member a predetermined distance above said base.
10. An exercise apparatus according to claim 9 including a pair of stop brackets mounted on the vertical member and spaced one above each foot pedal for stopping the upward movement of said foot pedals.
11. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7 including swivel means removably mounted on said foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
12. An exercise apparatus according to claim 7 including swivel means removably mounted on said foot pedals, said swivel means comprises a platform, a swivel member rotatably mounted on the platform, means for securing said platform to said foot pedals, whereby, a user standing on said swivel member can swivel side-to-side.
13. A low impact exercise apparatus for simulating downhill skiing, comprising:
a) a frame having a handrail and a base for resting on a supporting surface;
b) at least one foot pedal pivotally attached to the frame;
c) means for upwardly biasing said at least one foot pedal;
d) friction brake means for resisting pivotal movement of the foot pedal, said friction brake means comprising a friction drum rotatably mounted on said frame, including drive belt means connecting said at least one foot pedal and said friction drum for driving said friction drum in one direction when at least one of said at least one foot pedal is depressed, including a tension cable means operably coupled to said drum for frictionally engaging the friction drum during movement of the drum, said friction drum having a hard outer cylindrical surface, and including means for adjusting the frictional engagement of said tension cable means with said friction drum; and e) swivel means removably mounted on said at least one foot pedals, the swivel means having a top surface on which a user can stand, whereby a user standing thereon can swivel from side-to-side.
14. An exercise apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said swivel means comprises a platform, a swivel member rotatably mounted on the platform, means for securing said platform to said at least one foot pedal.
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/844,154 US5242340A (en) | 1992-03-02 | 1992-03-02 | Low impact exercise apparatus |
| CA002090061A CA2090061A1 (en) | 1992-03-02 | 1993-02-22 | Low impact exercise apparatus |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US07/844,154 US5242340A (en) | 1992-03-02 | 1992-03-02 | Low impact exercise apparatus |
| CA002090061A CA2090061A1 (en) | 1992-03-02 | 1993-02-22 | Low impact exercise apparatus |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2090061A1 true CA2090061A1 (en) | 1994-08-23 |
Family
ID=25675923
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002090061A Abandoned CA2090061A1 (en) | 1992-03-02 | 1993-02-22 | Low impact exercise apparatus |
Country Status (2)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US5242340A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2090061A1 (en) |
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Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| US5242340A (en) | 1993-09-07 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |