US20030166434A1 - Self-powered fitness equipment - Google Patents
Self-powered fitness equipment Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20030166434A1 US20030166434A1 US10/090,417 US9041702A US2003166434A1 US 20030166434 A1 US20030166434 A1 US 20030166434A1 US 9041702 A US9041702 A US 9041702A US 2003166434 A1 US2003166434 A1 US 2003166434A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- generator
- user
- storage medium
- energy storage
- electric energy
- 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
Images
Classifications
-
- 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
- A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
- A63B21/0053—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos
-
- 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
- A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
- A63B21/0053—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos
- A63B21/0054—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos for charging a battery
-
- 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
- A63B21/005—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters
- A63B21/0053—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos
- A63B21/0055—Exercising apparatus for developing or strengthening the muscles or joints of the body by working against a counterforce, with or without measuring devices using electromagnetic or electric force-resisters using alternators or dynamos the produced electric power used as a source for other equipment, e.g. for TVs
-
- 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
- A63B22/0015—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements
- A63B22/0023—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements the inclination of the main axis of the movement path being adjustable, e.g. the inclination of an endless band
-
- 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
- A63B22/0015—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements
- A63B22/0017—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements the adjustment being controlled by movement of the user
- A63B2022/002—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with an adjustable movement path of the support elements the adjustment being controlled by movement of the user electronically, e.g. by using a program
-
- 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
- A63B22/06—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement
- A63B22/0664—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing an elliptic movement
- A63B2022/067—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements with support elements performing a rotating cycling movement, i.e. a closed path movement performing an elliptic movement with crank and handles being on opposite sides of the exercising apparatus with respect to the frontal body-plane of the user, e.g. the crank is behind and handles are in front of the user
-
- 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
- A63B21/22—Resisting devices with rotary bodies
- A63B21/225—Resisting devices with rotary bodies with flywheels
-
- 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
- A63B22/20—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, e.g. gliding means, to be moved over the floor or other surface, e.g. guide tracks, during exercising
- A63B22/201—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, e.g. gliding means, to be moved over the floor or other surface, e.g. guide tracks, during exercising for moving a support element in reciprocating translation, i.e. for sliding back and forth on a guide track
- A63B22/205—Exercising apparatus specially adapted for conditioning the cardio-vascular system, for training agility or co-ordination of movements using rollers, wheels, castors or the like, e.g. gliding means, to be moved over the floor or other surface, e.g. guide tracks, during exercising for moving a support element in reciprocating translation, i.e. for sliding back and forth on a guide track in a substantially vertical plane, e.g. for exercising against gravity
Definitions
- the present invention relates to exercise equipment, and more specifically to a self-powered stationary exercise device including a storage battery for actuating certain components of the exercise device so as to maintain the resistance felt by the user substantially constant during the device's use.
- a stationary exercise device that can simulate a wide range of stepping motions, including skiing, walking, jogging, running and climbing, is known under the trademark of EFX Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® and is available from Precor Incorporated of Bothell, Wash.
- Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machines are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,313, which is explicitly incorporated by reference herein.
- an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine includes a floor engaging frame 10 incorporating a forward post 12 .
- a pair of flywheels 14 a and 14 b (overlapping with each other and thus only flywheel 14 a is shown) are located at the rear of the frame 10 for rotation about a horizontal, transverse axis 16 .
- the rearward ends of foot links 18 a and 18 b are pivotally attached to corresponding flywheels 14 a and 14 b to travel about a circular path around axis 16 as the flywheels rotate.
- the forward ends of foot links 18 a and 18 b are movably mounted to an adjustable guide 20 .
- FIG. 1 shows the path of travel of the foot pedal at three different angular orientations of guide 20 corresponding to different elevations of a lift system 24 . In the smallest angular orientation (approximately 10° above the horizontal), the corresponding foot pedal travel path 26 is illustrated. This generally corresponds to a gliding or cross-country skiing motion.
- the guide 20 is shown at a second orientation at a steeper angle, approximately 20° from the horizontal, with the corresponding foot pedal travel path 28 .
- This path of travel generally corresponds to a walking motion.
- FIG. 1 also illustrates a third, even steeper, angular orientation of the guide 20 , approximately 30° from the horizontal, with the corresponding foot pedal travel path 30 .
- This path of travel generally corresponds to a climbing motion.
- changing the angular orientation of guide 20 changing the elevation of guide 20 relative to the frame 10 will also cause the path of travel of the foot pedals to change.
- the Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine of this type is connectable to a standard amperage AC power supply.
- the present invention is directed to providing self-powered fitness equipment, such as a self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine.
- a self-powered fitness device to simulate various types of stepping motions.
- the device includes a frame, a guide movably associated with the frame, and at least one foot support coupled to the guide.
- the foot support is configured to receive a user's feet.
- the device further includes a generator drivably coupled to the foot support. The generator is activated to produce power by the user's stepping motions on the foot support.
- the device also includes a battery coupled to the generator to store at least part of the power produced by the generator.
- the device includes a lift system for automatically changing at least one of the elevation and the angular orientation of the guide relative to the frame. Since the lift system is powered by both the generator and the battery, actuation of the lift system will not alter the resistance to the user pedaling the foot support during exercising.
- the device may be configured so that the battery will power the device for a predefined period of time even after the user stops pedaling.
- a battery to activate an actuator e.g., a lift system
- an actuator e.g., a lift system
- a fitness device so as to maintain a substantially constant resistance to the user
- an actuator e.g., a lift system
- the use of a battery to activate an actuator (e.g., a lift system) of a fitness device so as to maintain a substantially constant resistance to the user can be applied in various types of fitness equipment, and is not limited to an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine.
- FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine shown in schematic form, illustrating the paths of the user's foot at different angular orientations of a guide for foot pedals, as known in the prior art;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine formed in accordance with the present invention.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating electrical components of the self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine formed in accordance with the present invention.
- a self-powered fitness device to simulate various types of stepping motions in accordance with the present invention includes a frame 10 , a guide 20 movably associated with the frame, and a pair of foot pedals (foot supports) 22 a and 22 b carried by elongated foot links 18 a and 18 b.
- the forward ends of the foot links 18 a and 18 b are movably supported by the guide 20 .
- the device further includes a lift system 24 (enclosed in a forward hood 25 ) for selectively and automatically changing at least one of the elevation and angular orientation of the guide 20 relative to the frame 10 .
- the user may readily adjust the guide 20 to simulate a wide range of stepping motions.
- the self-powered fitness device still further includes a generator 32 (enclosed in a rearward hood 34 ) drivably coupled to the first and second foot links 18 a and 18 b.
- the generator 32 is actuated to produce power by the user's stepping motions when the user's feet are in the first and second foot pedals 22 a and 22 b.
- the generator 32 is formed of a three-phase AC generator including a DC permanent-magnet alternator, which produces a sinusoidal voltage proportional to its rotational speed (RPM).
- the generator 32 To actuate the generator 32 by the user's stepping motions, the generator is drivably coupled with the flywheels 14 a and 14 b coupled to the foot links 18 a and 18 b (see FIG. 1) using any suitable transmission means such as a shaft, chain, transmission, or belt (not shown).
- the generator 32 is designed so as to produce a voltage even when a user is pedaling at very low speeds.
- the resistance on the pedals for the user is controlled by a resistance controller 36 based on the amount of current being demanded from the generator 32 , i.e., the more current is demanded from the generator 32 , the higher the level of torque required to power the generator 32 , and the higher the resistance on the pedals.
- the resistance controller 36 responds by sending a corresponding field current signal (e.g., pulse width modulated signal) to the generator 32 .
- Changes in the field current signal varies the field current in the alternator in the generator 32 , i.e., increasing current in the alternator field tends to increase the strength of its magnetic field, thereby increasing resistance of the alternator to the user; and decreasing current in the alternator field tends to decrease the strength of its magnetic field, thereby decreasing resistance of the alternator to the user.
- the field current signal may be varied by the user's programming for imparting a desired level of resistance to the user.
- the voltage produced by the generator 32 is used to power various components of the self-powered fitness device, as will be more fully described below.
- the present invention provides a novel arrangement of a battery 48 to actuate the lift system 24 to move the guide 20 up and down, so as to maintain the resistance to the user substantially constant during exercising regardless of whether the guide 20 is activated or not.
- the voltage from the generator 32 is rectified and converted into DC voltage via an AC-DC converter 38 , which will then power a universal power supply 40 .
- the universal power supply 40 will create an isolated power supply 42 (for example, 18 volts) and a non-isolated power supply 44 (for example, 12 volts).
- the 18-volt isolated power supply 42 is connected to a digital ground, which is isolated from the non-isolated power supply 44 connected to an analog ground, to completely isolate those components that may contact the user from any circuits powered directly from the AC generator 32 (see “isolation barrier” line in FIG. 3).
- the non-isolated power supply 44 is used to operate the resistance controller 36 .
- the 18-volt isolated power supply 42 is then converted into 14.5 volts for a battery charger 46 for charging the battery 48 , which will be used to power the DC guide lift motor (actuator) 24 to move the guide 20 up and down, under the control of a lift controller 52 .
- a battery charger 46 for charging the battery 48
- the isolated power supply 42 is also converted into 8 volts via a DC-DC converter 54 to power a display panel 56 of the fitness device. (See FIG. 2, also.)
- the display 56 includes one or more display screens and a command console composed of a number of depressible buttons.
- the display screens are used for presenting various information useful to the user, while the command console is used to allow the user to activate or program the device.
- the 8 volts from the DC-DC converter 54 is further converted to 5 volts via a linear regulator 56 for powering a CPU and other peripherals 60 .
- the CPU 60 coordinates the operation of the lift controller 52 , the upper display 56 , and the resistance controller 36 .
- the battery 48 is used to power the guide 20 , actuating the guide 20 will not produce a change in the resistance on the pedals 22 a and 22 b felt by the user (except when the user's programming changes the current being demand from the generator 32 ).
- the normal guide duty cycle operation is typically 16.6%, meaning that for each minute that the guide 20 is actuated (“on”), there will be 5 minutes that the guide 20 is not actuated (“off”).
- the battery 48 is configured to be charged during the “off” cycle, and then, during the “on” cycle, the 14.5 volts from the battery charger 46 supplies some of the current for actuating the guide 20 while the battery 48 will provide the rest.
- the whole system is powered using solely the energy provided by the user, and the resistance on the pedals will not change even when the guide 20 is actuated.
- the battery 48 may be used to power the guide 20 , and also maintain the CPU 60 and the display panel 56 , for up to 20-30 seconds after the user stops pedaling.
Abstract
Description
- The present invention relates to exercise equipment, and more specifically to a self-powered stationary exercise device including a storage battery for actuating certain components of the exercise device so as to maintain the resistance felt by the user substantially constant during the device's use.
- A stationary exercise device that can simulate a wide range of stepping motions, including skiing, walking, jogging, running and climbing, is known under the trademark of EFX Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® and is available from Precor Incorporated of Bothell, Wash. Some embodiments of Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machines are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,313, which is explicitly incorporated by reference herein.
- Briefly, referring to FIG. 1, an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine includes a
floor engaging frame 10 incorporating aforward post 12. A pair offlywheels flywheel 14 a is shown) are located at the rear of theframe 10 for rotation about a horizontal,transverse axis 16. The rearward ends offoot links corresponding flywheels axis 16 as the flywheels rotate. The forward ends offoot links adjustable guide 20. The forward ends offoot links guide 20, to reciprocate back and forth therealong, as the rearward ends offoot links axis 16, causing foot pedals (or foot supports) 22 a and 22 b carried by the foot links to travel along various elliptical paths. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows the path of travel of the foot pedal at three different angular orientations ofguide 20 corresponding to different elevations of alift system 24. In the smallest angular orientation (approximately 10° above the horizontal), the corresponding footpedal travel path 26 is illustrated. This generally corresponds to a gliding or cross-country skiing motion. Theguide 20 is shown at a second orientation at a steeper angle, approximately 20° from the horizontal, with the corresponding footpedal travel path 28. This path of travel generally corresponds to a walking motion. FIG. 1 also illustrates a third, even steeper, angular orientation of theguide 20, approximately 30° from the horizontal, with the corresponding footpedal travel path 30. This path of travel generally corresponds to a climbing motion. Additionally or alternatively to changing the angular orientation ofguide 20, changing the elevation ofguide 20 relative to theframe 10 will also cause the path of travel of the foot pedals to change. The Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine of this type is connectable to a standard amperage AC power supply. - The present invention is directed to providing self-powered fitness equipment, such as a self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine.
- Specifically, a self-powered fitness device to simulate various types of stepping motions is provided. The device includes a frame, a guide movably associated with the frame, and at least one foot support coupled to the guide. The foot support is configured to receive a user's feet. The device further includes a generator drivably coupled to the foot support. The generator is activated to produce power by the user's stepping motions on the foot support. The device also includes a battery coupled to the generator to store at least part of the power produced by the generator. Finally, the device includes a lift system for automatically changing at least one of the elevation and the angular orientation of the guide relative to the frame. Since the lift system is powered by both the generator and the battery, actuation of the lift system will not alter the resistance to the user pedaling the foot support during exercising.
- In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, the device may be configured so that the battery will power the device for a predefined period of time even after the user stops pedaling.
- As will be apparent to those skilled in the art, the use of a battery to activate an actuator (e.g., a lift system) of a fitness device so as to maintain a substantially constant resistance to the user can be applied in various types of fitness equipment, and is not limited to an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine.
- The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
- FIG. 1 is a side elevational view of an Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine shown in schematic form, illustrating the paths of the user's foot at different angular orientations of a guide for foot pedals, as known in the prior art;
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine formed in accordance with the present invention; and
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating electrical components of the self-powered Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine formed in accordance with the present invention.
- Referring to FIG. 2, a self-powered fitness device to simulate various types of stepping motions in accordance with the present invention includes a
frame 10, aguide 20 movably associated with the frame, and a pair of foot pedals (foot supports) 22 a and 22 b carried byelongated foot links foot links guide 20. The device further includes a lift system 24 (enclosed in a forward hood 25) for selectively and automatically changing at least one of the elevation and angular orientation of theguide 20 relative to theframe 10. Thus, the user may readily adjust theguide 20 to simulate a wide range of stepping motions. These components are generally equivalent to those disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,313 referred to in the background section above. - Referring additionally to FIG. 3, in accordance with the present invention, the self-powered fitness device still further includes a generator32 (enclosed in a rearward hood 34) drivably coupled to the first and
second foot links generator 32 is actuated to produce power by the user's stepping motions when the user's feet are in the first andsecond foot pedals 22 a and 22 b. In one embodiment, thegenerator 32 is formed of a three-phase AC generator including a DC permanent-magnet alternator, which produces a sinusoidal voltage proportional to its rotational speed (RPM). To actuate thegenerator 32 by the user's stepping motions, the generator is drivably coupled with theflywheels foot links generator 32 is designed so as to produce a voltage even when a user is pedaling at very low speeds. The resistance on the pedals for the user is controlled by aresistance controller 36 based on the amount of current being demanded from thegenerator 32, i.e., the more current is demanded from thegenerator 32, the higher the level of torque required to power thegenerator 32, and the higher the resistance on the pedals. For example, this can be accomplished by a CPU/microprocessor 60 determining the amount of current being demanded from thegenerator 60, and sending a corresponding command signal to theresistance controller 36. Theresistance controller 36 responds by sending a corresponding field current signal (e.g., pulse width modulated signal) to thegenerator 32. Changes in the field current signal varies the field current in the alternator in thegenerator 32, i.e., increasing current in the alternator field tends to increase the strength of its magnetic field, thereby increasing resistance of the alternator to the user; and decreasing current in the alternator field tends to decrease the strength of its magnetic field, thereby decreasing resistance of the alternator to the user. The field current signal may be varied by the user's programming for imparting a desired level of resistance to the user. The voltage produced by thegenerator 32 is used to power various components of the self-powered fitness device, as will be more fully described below. - This arrangement, without more, would require that whenever substantially more current is demanded from the
generator 32, for the purpose of actuating theguide 20 in this example, the resistance on the pedals for the user will be increased. This is undesirable when the user wishes to continue exercising while maintaining a substantially constant resistance to his/her stepping motions. - Accordingly, still referring to FIG. 3, the present invention provides a novel arrangement of a
battery 48 to actuate thelift system 24 to move theguide 20 up and down, so as to maintain the resistance to the user substantially constant during exercising regardless of whether theguide 20 is activated or not. Specifically, according to the present invention, the voltage from thegenerator 32 is rectified and converted into DC voltage via an AC-DC converter 38, which will then power auniversal power supply 40. Theuniversal power supply 40 will create an isolated power supply 42 (for example, 18 volts) and a non-isolated power supply 44 (for example, 12 volts). For safety regulations purposes, the 18-voltisolated power supply 42 is connected to a digital ground, which is isolated from the non-isolatedpower supply 44 connected to an analog ground, to completely isolate those components that may contact the user from any circuits powered directly from the AC generator 32 (see “isolation barrier” line in FIG. 3). Thenon-isolated power supply 44 is used to operate theresistance controller 36. - In one embodiment, the 18-volt
isolated power supply 42 is then converted into 14.5 volts for abattery charger 46 for charging thebattery 48, which will be used to power the DC guide lift motor (actuator) 24 to move theguide 20 up and down, under the control of alift controller 52. In place of a conventional battery, any type of electric energy storage medium may be used, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Theisolated power supply 42 is also converted into 8 volts via a DC-DC converter 54 to power adisplay panel 56 of the fitness device. (See FIG. 2, also.) As well known in the art, thedisplay 56 includes one or more display screens and a command console composed of a number of depressible buttons. The display screens are used for presenting various information useful to the user, while the command console is used to allow the user to activate or program the device. The 8 volts from the DC-DC converter 54 is further converted to 5 volts via alinear regulator 56 for powering a CPU andother peripherals 60. TheCPU 60 coordinates the operation of thelift controller 52, theupper display 56, and theresistance controller 36. - Importantly, because the
battery 48 is used to power theguide 20, actuating theguide 20 will not produce a change in the resistance on thepedals 22 a and 22 b felt by the user (except when the user's programming changes the current being demand from the generator 32). The normal guide duty cycle operation is typically 16.6%, meaning that for each minute that theguide 20 is actuated (“on”), there will be 5 minutes that theguide 20 is not actuated (“off”). Accordingly, thebattery 48 is configured to be charged during the “off” cycle, and then, during the “on” cycle, the 14.5 volts from thebattery charger 46 supplies some of the current for actuating theguide 20 while thebattery 48 will provide the rest. Consequently, while the user is pedaling, the whole system is powered using solely the energy provided by the user, and the resistance on the pedals will not change even when theguide 20 is actuated. Furthermore, thebattery 48 may be used to power theguide 20, and also maintain theCPU 60 and thedisplay panel 56, for up to 20-30 seconds after the user stops pedaling. - While the preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it will be appreciated that various changes can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. For example, while the self-powered fitness device of the present invention was described in specific reference to a Elliptical Fitness Crosstraining® machine of the type described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,146,313, the invention may be incorporated in other types of self-powered fitness devices with an actuatable component (e.g., a guide) in order to maintain the resistance for the user substantially constant regardless of actuation of the component. Thus, any device wherein a user may translate exercise of any portion of the body into electric power via a generator (e.g., rowing machines, treadmills, stair climbers, weight machines, exercise cycles, etc.) can incorporate the present invention.
Claims (20)
Priority Applications (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/090,417 US20030166434A1 (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2002-03-01 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
CA002418688A CA2418688A1 (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2003-02-11 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
TW092103679A TW200303776A (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2003-02-21 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
GB0304419A GB2385803B (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2003-02-27 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
JP2003050365A JP2003314437A (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2003-02-27 | Self-powered fitness equipment and method of self- powering the equipment |
DE10308974A DE10308974A1 (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2003-02-28 | Battery powered fitness machine |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/090,417 US20030166434A1 (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2002-03-01 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20030166434A1 true US20030166434A1 (en) | 2003-09-04 |
Family
ID=22222683
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/090,417 Abandoned US20030166434A1 (en) | 2002-03-01 | 2002-03-01 | Self-powered fitness equipment |
Country Status (6)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US20030166434A1 (en) |
JP (1) | JP2003314437A (en) |
CA (1) | CA2418688A1 (en) |
DE (1) | DE10308974A1 (en) |
GB (1) | GB2385803B (en) |
TW (1) | TW200303776A (en) |
Cited By (35)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080172328A1 (en) * | 2008-02-23 | 2008-07-17 | Amir Ajilian | Method and system for generating electricity |
US7594877B2 (en) * | 2006-03-13 | 2009-09-29 | Brunswick Corporation | Climber appliance |
US20090271336A1 (en) * | 2008-02-18 | 2009-10-29 | Travis Dean Franks | Environmentally-friendly fitness center systems |
US20090315336A1 (en) * | 2008-06-23 | 2009-12-24 | Hudson Worthington Harr | Renewable energy generation system |
US7758473B2 (en) | 2003-06-23 | 2010-07-20 | Nautilus, Inc. | Variable stride exercise device |
US7785235B2 (en) | 2003-06-23 | 2010-08-31 | Nautilus, Inc. | Variable stride exercise device |
WO2011016040A1 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2011-02-10 | Pinchas Shalev | Vibratory exercise device |
US20110210563A1 (en) * | 2007-03-29 | 2011-09-01 | Sung Sik Yang | Permanent magnet generator |
ITRA20110005A1 (en) * | 2011-02-08 | 2012-08-09 | Technogym Spa | GINNICA MACHINE |
CN102728024A (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2012-10-17 | 山东汇康运动器材有限公司 | Speed regulation method free of external power mountain climbing machine and device thereof |
CN102836532A (en) * | 2012-09-29 | 2012-12-26 | 句容富达教学设备科技有限公司 | Multifunctional body-building machine |
US20140274577A1 (en) * | 2013-03-12 | 2014-09-18 | David Beard | Apparatus, system, and method for dual tread treadmill improvements |
US20140274576A1 (en) * | 2004-09-14 | 2014-09-18 | David Beard | Apparatus, system, and method for providing resistance in a dual tread treadmill |
US20140336011A1 (en) * | 2013-05-07 | 2014-11-13 | Basix International Inc. | Rowing simulator |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
US10220259B2 (en) | 2012-01-05 | 2019-03-05 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | System and method for controlling an exercise device |
US10226396B2 (en) | 2014-06-20 | 2019-03-12 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Post workout massage device |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US10272317B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-04-30 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Lighted pace feature in a treadmill |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10391361B2 (en) | 2015-02-27 | 2019-08-27 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Simulating real-world terrain on an exercise device |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US10433612B2 (en) | 2014-03-10 | 2019-10-08 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Pressure sensor to quantify work |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10493349B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-12-03 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Display on exercise device |
WO2019240974A1 (en) * | 2018-06-10 | 2019-12-19 | Gouzenko Alexander | Exercise device |
US10625137B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2020-04-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated displays in an exercise device |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
US10671705B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2020-06-02 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Customizing recipe recommendations |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10967237B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2021-04-06 | Alexander Gouzenko | Exercise device |
US10967220B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2021-04-06 | Alexander Gouzenko | Exercise device |
CN112675479A (en) * | 2020-12-28 | 2021-04-20 | 南京罗蒂朗医疗器械有限公司 | Self-generating fitness equipment with safety mechanism |
Families Citing this family (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE102004019328B3 (en) * | 2004-04-21 | 2005-08-04 | Josef Mittermaier | Training device for increasing body strength and for rehabilitation after illness comprises a lever connected to a shaft which drives an electric generator which charges a current source |
FR2870747B1 (en) * | 2004-05-26 | 2009-11-20 | Thierry Albert | DEVICE FOR IMPROVING MOTHINESS IN PARTICULAR FROM THE MARKET |
US7731634B2 (en) * | 2005-02-09 | 2010-06-08 | Precor Incorporated | Elliptical exercise equipment with stowable arms |
CA2539271C (en) * | 2005-03-31 | 2014-10-28 | Alcon, Inc. | Footswitch operable to control a surgical system |
JP2008220159A (en) * | 2007-02-08 | 2008-09-18 | Shigekazu Hashimoto | Simple power generating set |
JP5565762B2 (en) | 2008-03-19 | 2014-08-06 | 株式会社日立製作所 | Training apparatus and training apparatus control method |
KR200451087Y1 (en) | 2008-10-06 | 2010-11-24 | 김병장 | Conference and Sports Train through Interior Remodeling |
EP2638936B1 (en) * | 2012-03-14 | 2016-10-05 | Ecogim Tecnologias S.L. | Device and system for generating electric power for sports training apparatuses |
DE102013018716B4 (en) * | 2013-11-08 | 2020-03-12 | Peter Picciani | Fitness machine or retrofit kit for a fitness machine for professional power generation |
CN114504764B (en) * | 2022-02-15 | 2022-12-16 | 运城职业技术大学 | Sinusoidal roller formula sports fitness device |
Citations (13)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3765245A (en) * | 1970-12-31 | 1973-10-16 | Jaeger E | Dynamo ergometer |
US4358105A (en) * | 1980-08-21 | 1982-11-09 | Lifecycle, Inc. | Programmed exerciser apparatus and method |
US4389047A (en) * | 1981-01-02 | 1983-06-21 | Hall Lawrence W | Rotary exercise device |
US4408613A (en) * | 1981-10-02 | 1983-10-11 | Aerobitronics, Inc. | Interactive exercise device |
US4643418A (en) * | 1985-03-04 | 1987-02-17 | Battle Creek Equipment Company | Exercise treadmill |
US5252859A (en) * | 1990-05-09 | 1993-10-12 | Tagney Jr Lee | Jogging electric current generator |
US5685804A (en) * | 1995-12-07 | 1997-11-11 | Precor Incorporated | Stationary exercise device |
US5762584A (en) * | 1993-11-03 | 1998-06-09 | Nordictrack, Inc. | Variable resistance exercise device |
US6056670A (en) * | 1994-05-25 | 2000-05-02 | Unisen, Inc. | Power controlled exercising machine and method for controlling the same |
US6123650A (en) * | 1998-11-03 | 2000-09-26 | Precor Incorporated | Independent elliptical motion exerciser |
US6273842B1 (en) * | 2000-06-05 | 2001-08-14 | Leao Wang | Electric treadmill with a single motor for adjusting the height of a running board and for folding the treadmill |
US20010027150A1 (en) * | 2000-03-08 | 2001-10-04 | Duke John H. | Flexion extension exerciser |
US6302826B1 (en) * | 2000-03-16 | 2001-10-16 | Ying-Che Lee | Direct driving apparatus for an electric treadmill |
-
2002
- 2002-03-01 US US10/090,417 patent/US20030166434A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2003
- 2003-02-11 CA CA002418688A patent/CA2418688A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2003-02-21 TW TW092103679A patent/TW200303776A/en unknown
- 2003-02-27 JP JP2003050365A patent/JP2003314437A/en active Pending
- 2003-02-27 GB GB0304419A patent/GB2385803B/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
- 2003-02-28 DE DE10308974A patent/DE10308974A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (14)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US3765245A (en) * | 1970-12-31 | 1973-10-16 | Jaeger E | Dynamo ergometer |
US4358105A (en) * | 1980-08-21 | 1982-11-09 | Lifecycle, Inc. | Programmed exerciser apparatus and method |
US4389047A (en) * | 1981-01-02 | 1983-06-21 | Hall Lawrence W | Rotary exercise device |
US4408613A (en) * | 1981-10-02 | 1983-10-11 | Aerobitronics, Inc. | Interactive exercise device |
US4643418A (en) * | 1985-03-04 | 1987-02-17 | Battle Creek Equipment Company | Exercise treadmill |
US5252859A (en) * | 1990-05-09 | 1993-10-12 | Tagney Jr Lee | Jogging electric current generator |
US5762584A (en) * | 1993-11-03 | 1998-06-09 | Nordictrack, Inc. | Variable resistance exercise device |
US6056670A (en) * | 1994-05-25 | 2000-05-02 | Unisen, Inc. | Power controlled exercising machine and method for controlling the same |
US5685804A (en) * | 1995-12-07 | 1997-11-11 | Precor Incorporated | Stationary exercise device |
US6146313A (en) * | 1995-12-07 | 2000-11-14 | Precor Incorporated | Cross training exercise device |
US6123650A (en) * | 1998-11-03 | 2000-09-26 | Precor Incorporated | Independent elliptical motion exerciser |
US20010027150A1 (en) * | 2000-03-08 | 2001-10-04 | Duke John H. | Flexion extension exerciser |
US6302826B1 (en) * | 2000-03-16 | 2001-10-16 | Ying-Che Lee | Direct driving apparatus for an electric treadmill |
US6273842B1 (en) * | 2000-06-05 | 2001-08-14 | Leao Wang | Electric treadmill with a single motor for adjusting the height of a running board and for folding the treadmill |
Cited By (44)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7758473B2 (en) | 2003-06-23 | 2010-07-20 | Nautilus, Inc. | Variable stride exercise device |
US7785235B2 (en) | 2003-06-23 | 2010-08-31 | Nautilus, Inc. | Variable stride exercise device |
US9192810B2 (en) * | 2004-09-14 | 2015-11-24 | David Beard | Apparatus, system, and method for providing resistance in a dual tread treadmill |
US20140274576A1 (en) * | 2004-09-14 | 2014-09-18 | David Beard | Apparatus, system, and method for providing resistance in a dual tread treadmill |
US7771324B2 (en) * | 2006-03-13 | 2010-08-10 | Brunswick Corporation | Climber mechanism |
US7594877B2 (en) * | 2006-03-13 | 2009-09-29 | Brunswick Corporation | Climber appliance |
US20110210563A1 (en) * | 2007-03-29 | 2011-09-01 | Sung Sik Yang | Permanent magnet generator |
US20090271336A1 (en) * | 2008-02-18 | 2009-10-29 | Travis Dean Franks | Environmentally-friendly fitness center systems |
US20080172328A1 (en) * | 2008-02-23 | 2008-07-17 | Amir Ajilian | Method and system for generating electricity |
US20090315336A1 (en) * | 2008-06-23 | 2009-12-24 | Hudson Worthington Harr | Renewable energy generation system |
WO2011016040A1 (en) * | 2009-08-05 | 2011-02-10 | Pinchas Shalev | Vibratory exercise device |
US8517895B2 (en) | 2009-08-05 | 2013-08-27 | Pinchas Shalev | Vibratory exercise device |
ITRA20110005A1 (en) * | 2011-02-08 | 2012-08-09 | Technogym Spa | GINNICA MACHINE |
US10220259B2 (en) | 2012-01-05 | 2019-03-05 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | System and method for controlling an exercise device |
US9504874B2 (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2016-11-29 | Shan Dong Huikang Sport Equipment Co., Ltd. | Speed adjustment method and device for mountain climbing machine without external power |
WO2014008618A1 (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2014-01-16 | 山东汇康运动器材有限公司 | Speed adjustment method and device for mountain climbing machine without external power |
US20150209618A1 (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2015-07-30 | Shan Dong Huikang Sport Equipment Co., Ltd. | Speed Adjustment Method and Device for Mountain Climbing Machine without External Power |
CN102728024A (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2012-10-17 | 山东汇康运动器材有限公司 | Speed regulation method free of external power mountain climbing machine and device thereof |
US9770615B2 (en) * | 2012-07-11 | 2017-09-26 | Shan Dong Huikang Sport Equipment Co., Ltd. | Speed adjustment method and device for mountain climbing machine without external power |
CN102836532A (en) * | 2012-09-29 | 2012-12-26 | 句容富达教学设备科技有限公司 | Multifunctional body-building machine |
US20140274577A1 (en) * | 2013-03-12 | 2014-09-18 | David Beard | Apparatus, system, and method for dual tread treadmill improvements |
US10279212B2 (en) | 2013-03-14 | 2019-05-07 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength training apparatus with flywheel and related methods |
US20140336011A1 (en) * | 2013-05-07 | 2014-11-13 | Basix International Inc. | Rowing simulator |
US9486666B2 (en) * | 2013-05-07 | 2016-11-08 | Basix International Inc. | Rowing simulator |
US10188890B2 (en) | 2013-12-26 | 2019-01-29 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Magnetic resistance mechanism in a cable machine |
US10433612B2 (en) | 2014-03-10 | 2019-10-08 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Pressure sensor to quantify work |
US10426989B2 (en) | 2014-06-09 | 2019-10-01 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Cable system incorporated into a treadmill |
US10226396B2 (en) | 2014-06-20 | 2019-03-12 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Post workout massage device |
US10391361B2 (en) | 2015-02-27 | 2019-08-27 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Simulating real-world terrain on an exercise device |
US10449416B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2019-10-22 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10940360B2 (en) | 2015-08-26 | 2021-03-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Strength exercise mechanisms |
US10625137B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2020-04-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated displays in an exercise device |
US10441840B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-10-15 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Collapsible strength exercise machine |
US10493349B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-12-03 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Display on exercise device |
US10293211B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-05-21 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Coordinated weight selection |
US10272317B2 (en) | 2016-03-18 | 2019-04-30 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Lighted pace feature in a treadmill |
US10252109B2 (en) | 2016-05-13 | 2019-04-09 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Weight platform treadmill |
US10671705B2 (en) | 2016-09-28 | 2020-06-02 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Customizing recipe recommendations |
US10661114B2 (en) | 2016-11-01 | 2020-05-26 | Icon Health & Fitness, Inc. | Body weight lift mechanism on treadmill |
US10967237B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2021-04-06 | Alexander Gouzenko | Exercise device |
US10967220B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2021-04-06 | Alexander Gouzenko | Exercise device |
US11554306B2 (en) | 2017-12-19 | 2023-01-17 | Alexander Gouzenko | Multipurpose exercise device for replicating exercise motions for sports and physical therapy |
WO2019240974A1 (en) * | 2018-06-10 | 2019-12-19 | Gouzenko Alexander | Exercise device |
CN112675479A (en) * | 2020-12-28 | 2021-04-20 | 南京罗蒂朗医疗器械有限公司 | Self-generating fitness equipment with safety mechanism |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
TW200303776A (en) | 2003-09-16 |
GB2385803B (en) | 2005-06-29 |
CA2418688A1 (en) | 2003-09-01 |
DE10308974A1 (en) | 2003-09-11 |
JP2003314437A (en) | 2003-11-06 |
GB0304419D0 (en) | 2003-04-02 |
GB2385803A (en) | 2003-09-03 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20030166434A1 (en) | Self-powered fitness equipment | |
US5810696A (en) | Exercise apparatus and associated method including rheological fluid brake | |
KR100831240B1 (en) | Arc climber | |
US7731635B2 (en) | Cross training exercise device | |
US9265988B2 (en) | Exercise apparatus | |
US7862476B2 (en) | Exercise device | |
US8021274B2 (en) | Stride adjustment mechanism | |
USRE34959E (en) | Stair-climbing exercise apparatus | |
US5707319A (en) | Treadmill adaptive speed control | |
EP0403295B1 (en) | Electric exercise appliance | |
US7410449B2 (en) | Multifunctional exercise treadmill with sensor for activating motor driven tread belt or not in response to force exerted upon the tread belt for additionally exercising either foot muscles or both foot and hand muscles | |
US5374227A (en) | Stair stepping exercise apparatus | |
US5899833A (en) | Orbital stepping exercise apparatus | |
WO1994012244A1 (en) | Articulated lower body exerciser | |
US20040063551A1 (en) | Exercise machine | |
WO2003105967A1 (en) | Exercise modes for a personal transporter device | |
JPH0581155B2 (en) | ||
WO1993000965A2 (en) | Combination stationary recumbent exercise apparatus and upper body exerciser | |
US7713176B1 (en) | Recumbent stepper exercise machine | |
US11033767B2 (en) | Guided movement exercise machine | |
KR101112709B1 (en) | Aerobic exercise machine for the upper part of human body | |
WO2013084757A1 (en) | Walking exercise device | |
KR101041563B1 (en) | Bike type fittness device and control method of the same | |
KR101493281B1 (en) | Indoor sports equipment cycle | |
KR101021912B1 (en) | Bike type fittness device and control method of the same |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS, INC., ILLINOIS Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:LOPEZ-SANTILLANA, JUAN-LUIS;OLARIU, LAURENTIU;DEMUTH, DONALD A.;REEL/FRAME:012945/0101 Effective date: 20020514 |
|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: PRECOR INCORPORATED, WASHINGTON Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:ILLINOIS TOOL WORKS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:013447/0040 Effective date: 20030206 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |