Exercise devices – Involving user translation or physical simulation thereof – Stair climbing
Reexamination Certificate
2000-06-20
2001-09-04
Crow, Stephen R. (Department: 3464)
Exercise devices
Involving user translation or physical simulation thereof
Stair climbing
C482S051000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06283895
ABSTRACT:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to exercise methods and apparatus and more particularly, to a semi-recumbent cycling machine which facilitates foot movement through an elliptical path.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Cycling machines are known in the art. In general, a person sits on a seat and faces toward handle bars with legs extending downward. With the feet on respective pedals, the person is able to move his or her legs through a continuous motion. However, shortcomings associated with this type of exercise include a relatively limited range of motion and lack of back support during exercise. The art is also replete with recumbent cycling machines, which provide requisite back support but provide the same limited range of motion. An object of the present invention is to provide an exercise apparatus which provides comfortable back support while facilitating exercise through a continuous path of motion having an extended range.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In one respect, the present invention may be seen to provide a novel linkage assembly and corresponding exercise apparatus suitable for linking circular motion to relatively more complex, generally elliptical motion. In particular, an intermediate portion of a connector link is rotatably connected to a crank; a first end of the connector link is sized and configured to support a person's foot; and a second, opposite end of the connector link is constrained to move through a fixed path. The arrangement links rotation of the flywheel to movement of the foot support through a generally elliptical path.
In another respect, the present invention may be seen to provide a novel exercise apparatus which supports a person in an inclined and supine position relative to a horizontal floor surface while facilitating movement of the person's feet through generally elliptical paths having major axes which are generally perpendicular to the floor surface. In this regard, the linkage assembly components are configured and arranged to facilitate exercise which is safe, comfortable, and effective.
In yet another respect, the present invention may be seen to provide a novel exercise apparatus which facilitates foot travel through any of several fixed elliptical paths. In this regard, the constraint imposed on the second end of the connector link is moved relative to the crank axis to adjust the exercise stroke. Many of the features and advantages of the present invention may become more apparent from the detailed description that follows.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5836855 (1998-11-01), Eschenbach
patent: 5938570 (1999-08-01), Maresh
patent: 6017295 (2000-01-01), Eschenbach
patent: 6077197 (2000-06-01), Stearns et al.
Maresh Joseph D.
Stearns Kenneth W.
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