Cushioned elliptical exerciser

[0001] This application is a divisional of prior U.S. patent application, Ser. No. 10/369,207 filed on Feb. 19, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,169,087, entitled “CUSHIONED ELLIPTICAL EXERCISER”, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0002] 1. The Field of the Invention

[0003] The present invention relates to exercise devices. In particular, the present invention relates to elliptical exercise devices having a cushioning mechanism assembly configured to absorb energy during exercise.

[0004] 2. The Relevant Technology

[0005] A variety of devices have been developed to strengthen and condition leg muscles commonly used for activities such as walking, running, climbing, jumping, skiing etc. Such machines include treadmills, stepping machines, and various types of sliding machines. Elliptical exercise machines have also proven to be popular exercise products.

[0006] Elliptical exercise devices provide a lower impact exercise than some alternative exercise devices such as treadmills, or the like. Elliptical exercise devices additionally provide exercise for a wide range of motion. However, typical elliptical exercise machines can be somewhat inflexible. In particular, forces applied on existing elliptical exercise devices are commonly rigidly channeled into the elliptical movement of the foot supports along predefined elliptical paths. When a user shifts weight from one leg to the other leg energy is exerted on the elongate member configured to hold the user's weight. The inflexible nature of elongate members of typical elliptical devices results in the energy being relayed back to the legs and joints of the user. This creates an alternating change in pressure between the user's legs which can result in impact on the user's joints.

[0007] The present invention relates to elliptical exercise devices having a cushioning mechanism assembly configured to absorb energy during exercise. The cushioning mechanism assembly is configured to absorb energy exerted on one or more elongate members when the user's weight shifts from one leg to the other leg during exercise. In this manner, the impact on the user's joints is alleviated.

[0008] According to one aspect of the present invention, the cushioning mechanism assembly comprises first and second cushioning apparatuses. For example, in one embodiment each cushioning apparatus comprises a biasing apparatus. The biasing apparatus is coupled to an elongate member. The energy exerted on the elongate member is absorbed by the biasing apparatus. In one example, each biasing apparatus includes a spring element configured to absorb energy by undergoing elastic deformation.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present invention, the first and second cushioning apparatuses comprise first and second lever cushioning apparatuses. Each lever cushioning apparatus includes a lever arm and a cushioning element that functions as a fulcrum of the lever arm. The cushioning element is movable. The position of the cushioning element along the length of the elongate member affects the amount of cushioning provided by the cushioning element. By being movable, the cushioning element allows the user to select a desired amount of cushioning during exercise.

[0010] In one embodiment, the cushioning element includes a pair of pins that can be positioned in a plurality of slots along the length of the elongate member. In an alternative embodiment, the cushioning element includes a pair of flanges positioned on either side of the elongate member. The flanges permit the cushioning element to be slid along the length of the elongate member to reposition the cushioning element.

[0011] These and other objects and features of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

[0021] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an elliptical exercise device 1 having a cushioning mechanism assembly according to one aspect of the present invention. FIG. 2 provides a close-up perspective view of the biasing apparatus 100a featured in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the biasing apparatus 100a. FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a user exercising on the cushioned elliptical exercise device when one biasing member 100a is in an elongate configuration and another biasing apparatus 100b is in a compressed configuration. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a user exercising on the cushioned elliptical exercise device when one biasing member 100a is in an compressed configuration and another biasing apparatus 100b is in a elongate configuration.

[0022] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of an elliptical exercise device 1a having a lever cushioning apparatus 200. FIG. 7 is a view of a movable cushion element 230 according to one aspect of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a view of an alternative movable cushion element 250.

[0023] With reference now to FIG. 1, cushioned elliptical exercise device 1 provides a mechanism for allowing a user to undertake an aerobic or anaerobic workout with minimal impact on the user's joints. The cushioned elliptical exercise device 1 includes a cushioning mechanism assembly that minimizes impact on the user's joints during exercise. The cushioning mechanism assembly comprises first and second cushioning apparatuses. In the illustrated embodiment the first and second cushioning apparatuses comprise respective first and second biasing apparatuses 100a, b.

[0024] In the illustrated embodiment cushioned elliptical exercise device 1 comprises a frame 10, first and second elongate members 20a, b, a rotating mechanism 30 (such as a crank), arm supports 40a, b, console 50, and biasing apparatuses 100a, b. Frame 10 includes an upright frame member 12 and front and rear stabilizing members 11a, 11b. Several of the components of cushioned elliptical exercise device 1 are coupled to and supported by upright frame member 12.

[0025] First and second elongate members 20a, b provide a support structure upon which the user's feet are positioned during exercise. Elongate members 20a, b are configured to move in an elliptical pattern providing the desired elliptical movement for exercise on the cushioned elliptical exercise device 1. The elliptical movement of elongate members 20a, b may include any closed loop movement such as, but not limited to, a generally circular movement, an ellipse, a loop that is longer than it is high, and/or a closed curve in the form of an oval.

[0026] In the illustrated embodiment, elongate members 20a, b comprise substantially planar rigid elements. However, a variety of types and configurations of elongate members can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, the elongate members are comprised of a biasing spring member and/or may be curved to provide a desired configuration.

[0027] In the illustrated embodiment, elongate members 20a, b each have a foot support 24. Foot support 24 is adapted to accommodate a user's foot to maintain the position of user's foot during exercise. In an alternative embodiment, the elongate members are configured to accommodate a user's foot without the use a foot support.

[0028] Rotating mechanism 30 is coupled to frame 10 and elongate member 20. Rotating mechanism 30 facilitates elliptical movement of first and second elongate members 20a, b. In one embodiment the rotating mechanism comprises a crank. The crank has a center pivot axis 32 and horizontally oriented first and second pivot pins that are pivotally coupled to the rear end of each of the respective elongate members 20a, b providing a link to the frame. Center pivot axis 32 is the axis about which the crank rotates. In the illustrated embodiment, there is shown a single pivot pin 34a. A second pivot pin 34b (not shown) is provided on the opposite side of rotating mechanism 30 and is coupled to the rear end of elongate member 20b. The crank of FIG. 1 is substantially covered by a cosmetic cover 35 and/or flywheel coupled to the crank.

[0029] Descriptions of an illustrative rotating mechanism, frames, and/or elongate members that can be utilized in cushioned elliptical exercise device 1 are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/943,741, filed on Aug. 30, 2001, which is incorporated herein by reference. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of types and configurations of rotating mechanisms 30 can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, a rotating mechanism comprising a simple crank mechanism is utilized. Optionally, a flywheel may be coupled to the crank. In another embodiment, the rotating mechanism comprises a single rotating flywheel.

[0030] Arm supports 40a, b are movably coupled to frame 10 and are coupled to respective biasing apparatuses 100a, b thereby linking the respective biasing apparatuses 100a, b to the frame. Arm supports 40a, b also provide a mechanism allowing a user to support himself/herself while also providing a more complete workout routine. In the illustrated embodiment, arm supports 40a, b include respective arm support pivots 42a, b (pivot 42b not shown). Arm support pivots 42a, b provide a pivotal coupling between arm supports 40a, b and upright frame member 12.

[0031] A console 50 is coupled to upright frame member 12. A variety of types and configurations of console 50 can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, console 50 can allow a user to input information about a desired workout program, physiological characteristics of the user, or the like.

[0032] Each biasing apparatus 100a, b is an example of a cushioning apparatus that can minimize impact on a user during exercise. Biasing apparatuses 100a, b alleviate pressure on the user's joints during movement of elongate members 20a, b. In the illustrated embodiment, each biasing apparatus 100a, b comprises a spring. First biasing apparatus 100a is coupled between elongate member 20a and arm support 40a. Second biasing apparatus 100b is coupled between elongate member 20b and arm support 40b. The upper portion of each biasing apparatus is integrally coupled to a respective arm support 40a, b. The lower portion of each biasing apparatus 100a, b is pivotally coupled to a respective elongate member 20a, b, facilitating elliptical movement of elongate members 20a, b.

[0033] With reference now to FIGS. 2 and 3, there is shown a perspective view of biasing apparatus 100a which may be the same or similar to biasing apparatus 100b. In the illustrated embodiment, biasing apparatus 100a is a shock absorption mechanism which comprises a slotted tubing element 110, a core member 120, a spring element 130, a flange 140 coupled to core member 120, a sleeve 150, and a pivotal coupling 160.

[0034] As will be discussed in detail below, upon placing pressure on an elongate member, core element 120 is moved downwardly, resulting in compression of spring element 130 between flange 140 (which moves within tubing element 110) and sleeve 150, which is affixed to tubing element 110. Biasing apparatus 100a thus provides a mechanism for alleviating pressure exerted on the first and second elongate members so as to alleviate pressure on a user's joints when the bulk of the user's weight shifts from one leg to the other leg. Biasing apparatus 100a is configured to undergo elongation and compression. Biasing apparatus 100a absorbs energy during elongation and relieves energy during compression.

[0035] Tubing element 110 comprises a stationary member to which other components of biasing apparatus 100a are coupled. The movable components of biasing apparatus 100 move relative to tubing element 110 during exercise. Tubing element 110 includes a slot 112. Slot 112 permits other movable components of biasing apparatus 100a to be secure while moving relative to tubing element 110. In the illustrated embodiment, each respective tubing element 110 is integrally coupled to the end of arm supports 40a, b. In alternative embodiments, tubing element 110 comprises a separate member from arm supports 40a, b and is either affixedly or moveably coupled thereto.

[0036] Core member 120 is partially positioned inside tubing element 110. Core member 120 moves relative to tubing element 110 such that biasing apparatus 100 is compressed and elongated. Core member 120 comprises an exposed end 122 and an enclosed end 124. Exposed end 122 is positioned external to tubing element 110. Enclosed end 124 is positioned internal to tubing element 110. The length of exposed end 122 and enclosed end 124 change during elongation and compression cycles. For example, during an elongation cycle, the length of exposed end 122 increases while the length of enclosed end 124 decreases. Similarly, during a compression cycle, the length of exposed end 122 decreases while the length of enclosed end 124 increases.

[0037] Spring element 130 is positioned external to tubing element 110 so as to circumscribe tubing element 110. Spring element 130 is configured to absorb energy exerted on elongate member 20a, b. Flange 140 is positioned above spring element 130. Flange 140 maintains the position of spring element 130 effectively preventing movement of spring element 130 past the upper end of tubing element 110. Flange 140 is movable relative to tubing element 110. By being movable, flange 140 compresses or allows elongation of spring element 130.

[0038] Sleeve 150 is threadably coupled to the end of tubing element 110. Sleeve 150 prevents movement of spring element 130 past the lower end of tubing element 110. Sleeve 150 is immovable relative to tubing element 110. As a result, as flange 140 moves closer towards sleeve 150, spring element 130 is compressed. As flange 140 moves further away from sleeve 150, the compressed spring element 130 is allowed to return to its original configuration. Pivotal coupling 160 is coupled to the end of core member 120. Pivotal coupling 160 pivotally couples biasing apparatus 100 to elongate member 28a. By providing a movable coupling between elongate member 20a and biasing apparatus 100a, pivotal coupling 160 facilitates the desired elliptical motion of elongate member 20a.

[0039] With reference now to FIG. 3, there is shown an exploded view of biasing apparatus 100a illustrating the manner in which the components of biasing apparatus 100a allow compression and elongation of spring element 130. Slot 112 of tubing element 110 provides a channel through tubing element 110 in which a component of flange 140 is positioned.

[0040] Flange 140 comprises a circumferential member 142 and a center support 146 connected thereto. A center portion of support 146 is mounted onto core member 120. Circumferential member 142 is configured to circumscribe tubing element 110. The outer edges of center support 146 are positioned in slot 112 and an opposing slot (not shown) in tubing element 110. The configuration of circumferential member 142 and center support 146 ensures uninterrupted movement of flange 140, as flange 140 moves up and down relative to sleeve 150.

[0041] Core member 120 is adapted to be coupled to flange 140. As pressure is exerted on core member 120, core member 120 slides inside tubing element 110 resulting in movement of flange 140. As previously discussed, sleeve 150 prevents movement of spring element 130 past the end of tubing element 110. In the illustrated embodiment, sleeve 150 has threads which permit sleeve 150 to be coupled to tubing element 110. Threads 152 are positioned on tubing element 110 to facilitate threaded coupling of tubing element 110 and sleeve 150.

[0042] The configuration of threads 152 and sleeve 150 allow the user to adjust the amount and characteristics of cushioning provided by biasing apparatus 100a. Threads 152 allow sleeve 150 to be positioned closer to uppermost position of flange 140, thus pretensioning spring element 130. By increasing the amount of pretensioning on spring element 130 a more rigid shock absorption, having a short range of motion, is provided. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of types and configurations of flange 140 and sleeve 150 can be provided without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment, flange 140 is adjustable to pretension spring element 150. In another embodiment, sleeve 150 utilizes detent pins to be adjustably coupled to tubing element 110.

[0043] Pivotal coupling 160 is coupled to the exposed end 122 of core member 120. Pivotal coupling 160 comprises a pivot housing 162 and first and second bushings 164 that are mounted therein. Pivotal coupling 160 is coupled to elongate member 20a and allows rotation of elongate member 20a relative to biasing apparatus 100.

[0044] With reference now to FIGS. 2-4, there is shown the configuration of biasing apparatuses 100a when the weight of the user is exerted on elongate member 20a resulting in an elongate configuration of biasing apparatus 100a. As a user exercises, the user's weight shifts from one leg to the other. As the user's weight shifts from one leg to the other, pressure is exerted alternatively between elongate member 20a and elongate member 20b. When pressure is exerted on an elongated member, the pressure is conveyed to core member 120. As the pressure exerted downward on elongate member 20a exceeds the resistance provided by spring element 130, core member slides downward relative to tubing element 110. Because flange 140 is coupled to core member 120, flange 140 slides towards sleeve 150.

[0045] As mentioned above, movement of flange 140 in the direction of sleeve 150 results in compression of spring element 130 between flange 140 and sleeve 150. As spring element 130 is compressed, the elastic deformation undergone by spring element 130 absorbs the energy resulting from the downward movement of user's leg. By absorbing the energy, pressure on a user's joint is alleviated as the bulk of the user's weight shifts onto the leg associated with elongate member 20a.

[0046] With reference now to FIG. 5, there is shown the configuration of biasing apparatus 100a during upward movement of the user's foot on elongate member 20a resulting in a compressed configuration of biasing apparatus 100a. As the elliptical path of elongate member 20a moves towards the rear of rotating mechanism 30, the user's foot begins to move in an upward direction and the weight is shifted from the user's foot positioned on elongate member 20a to the user's foot positioned on elongate member 20b. As the weight is removed from elongate member 20a, the pressure exerted by spring element 130 on flange 140 exceeds the downward force exerted on core member 120. As this occurs, spring element 130 biases flange 140 upward. The exposed end 122 of core member 120 shortens as a portion of core member 120 is retracted into tubing element 110 resulting in a compressed configuration of biasing apparatus 100a.

[0047] With reference now to FIG. 6, there is shown a cushioned elliptical exercise device 1a having an alternative cushioning mechanism assembly. The cushioning mechanism assembly comprises first lever cushioning apparatus 200a and second lever cushioning apparatus 200b. Each lever cushioning apparatus is adapted to alleviate pressure on a user's joints when the bulk of the user's weight shifts from one leg to another.

[0048] First lever cushioning apparatus 200a may be the same or similar to the second lever cushioning apparatus 200b which is positioned on the side opposite first lever cushioning apparatus 200a. Lever cushioning apparatus 200a is adjustably linked to at least one of elongate member 210 and arm support 41a at a pivot point. Lever cushioning apparatus 200a comprises a foot support 220 and cushioning element 230. Elongate member 210 is coupled to arm support 41a at lever pivot 240. Elongate member 210 is coupled to rotating mechanism 30a (e.g. a crank) at elongate member pivot pin 34a.

[0049] Foot support 220 comprises a lever arm 221. Lever arm 221 has a first end 222 and a second end 224. In the illustrated embodiment foot support 220 further comprises a foot engagement member 226. Lever arm 221 is coupled to arm support 41a and elongate member 210 at lever pivot 240. Lever pivot 240 comprises a pivot mechanism such as a pivot pin, a bolt, a hinge, or another mechanism allowing pivoting of lever arm 221. Lever arm 221 moves in an elliptical path cooperatively with elongate member 210. First end 222 of lever arm 221 can be grasped and raised relative to elongate member 210. Second end 224 is coupled to arm support 41a and elongate member 210 at lever pivot 240.

[0050] Foot engagement member 226 is positioned on the upper surface of lever arm 221. Foot engagement member 226 limits movement of a user's foot during exercise. Cushioning element 230 is adjustably positioned between elongate member 210 and foot link 220. Cushioning element 230 absorbs energy so as to alleviate pressure on a user's joints when the bulk of the user's weight shifts from one let to the other leg.

[0051] The amount of cushioning, and the ability to absorb energy, provided by foot support 220 is dependent on the position of cushioning element 230 relative to first end 222 and second end 224 of lever arm 221. Variable cushioning is provided as a result of the lever arrangement of lever arm 221 relative to elongate member 210 and the position of cushion element 230. In the illustrated embodiment, cushioning element 230 comprises the fulcrum of the lever. The positioning of cushioning element 230 along the length of elongate member 210 results in greater or lesser energy being exerted on cushioning element 230.

[0052] When cushioning element 230 is positioned near first end 222 of lever arm 221, a smaller mount of leverage is exerted on cushioning element 230 than when cushioning element 230 is positioned near second end 224 of lever arm 221. When a greater amount of pressure is exerted on cushioning element 230, cushioning element 230 undergoes a greater amount of deformation than when a smaller amount of pressure is exerted on cushioning element 230. Additionally, when cushioning element 230 undergoes a greater amount of deformation, cushioning element 230 absorbs a greater amount of energy from the impact of user's foot. When cushioning element 230 is positioned near second end 224, deformation of cushioning element 230 results in a greater amount of movement of foot engagement member 226 than when cushioning element is positioned near first end 222. This increases the range of movement of lever arm 221 during which energy is being absorbed by cushioning element 230. The adjustability of cushion element 230 relative to lever arm 221 can be achieved utilizing a variety of different methods and utilizing a variety of mechanisms without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0053] By providing a mechanism that allows a user to change the position of cushioning element 230, a user can select a greater or lesser amount of cushioning to be provided by cushioning element 230. This allows a user to tailor the amount of cushioning to the desired characteristics of the workout. For example, a user may desire a greater amount of cushioning for a particularly long workout. Alternatively, a user may desire a lesser amount of cushioning during a rigorous workout of short duration.

[0054] With reference now to FIG. 7, foot support 220 and elongate member 210 of FIG. 6 are shown. Cushioning element 230 includes first and second pins 232a,b adjustability mounted in elongate member 210. A plurality of apertures are positioned along the length of elongate member 210 to accommodate first and second pins 232a,b. In order to move the position of cushioning element 230, the user raises first end 222 of lever arm 221, lifts cushioning element 230 such that pins 232a,b are removed from the apertures, and repositions cushioning element 230 on elongate member 210 (such as to the position shown in phantom lines) such that pins 232a,b are placed in new apertures along the length elongate member 210.

[0055] FIG. 8 shows an alternative mechanism for providing a movable cushion 250, according to another aspect of the present invention. Movable cushion 250 is slidably coupled to elongate member 210a. In the illustrated embodiment, cushioning element 250 includes a pair of flanges 252a, b (252b not shown) positioned on opposing sides of elongate member 210a. Flanges 252a, b prevent lateral movement of cushioning element 250 to maintain the position of cushioning element 250 on elongate member 210a. Additionally, flanges 252a, b permit the user to slide cushioning element 250 along the length of elongate member 210a. In order to change the position of cushioning element 250, the user can elevate lever arm 221a, then slide cushioning element 250 until a desired position is achieved. In one embodiment the user can slide cushion element 250 without raising lever arm 221a. Cushioning element 250 is thus movably coupled to elongate member. Other examples of movable coupling include, but are not limited to, a cushioning element that is rollably coupled to elongate member.

[0056] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, a variety of types and configurations of elliptical exercise devices can be utilized without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. For example, in one embodiment a first and second biasing apparatus are positioned on either end of each elongate member. In an alternative embodiment, a biasing apparatus uses an elastic member that absorbs energy during elongation. In yet another alternative embodiment, different types of cushioning mechanism assemblies are used cooperatively to absorb energy during exercise.

[0057] The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.