Exercise apparatus

Abstract

A bicycle exercise roller system including a roller with an internal flywheel. The internal flywheel is driven at a speed higher than the speed of the roller that the flywheel is located within. A platform extends between a pair of spaced frame rails and includes a channel for the passage of a drive belt for the roller engaging the front wheel of the bicycle.

Description

BACKGROUND

The present invention relates generally to the field of exercise training apparatus. More specifically, one form of the present invention relates to roller system bicycle trainers. While, the present inventions were developed for roller system bicycle trainers they may have application in other types of exercise equipment, such as but not limited to treadmills.

With reference to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a conventional bicycle exercise roller system 10 for supporting a bicycle and rider during an exercise routine. The bicycle exercise roller system 10 is comprised of three rotating rollers 11, 12 and 13 supported between two rails 14 and 15. The rollers 11, 12 and 13 are positioned with their axis of rotation parallel to each other and parallel to the ground. Two of the rollers 12 and 13, cradle the rear wheel of the bicycle and the third roller 11, spaced further forward, supports the front wheel of the bicycle. As the rider pedals the bicycle, the rear wheel of the bicycle causes the rear roller 13 and middle roller 12 to rotate. The middle roller 12 is connected to the front roller 11 via a drive belt 16, which causes the front roller 11 to rotate which in turn causes the front wheel of the bicycle to rotate. The rotating wheels generate enough gyroscopic effect to allow a practiced rider to maintain balance.

The prior bicycle exercise roller systems have been utilized by bicyclists for many years in training regiments. However, the design of the conventional bicycle exercise roller system may limit the conditioning benefit that the bicyclist receives. The present inventions overcome the limitations associated with the prior bicycle exercise roller systems in a novel and non-obvious way.

SUMMARY

One form of the present invention contemplates an exercise training apparatus, comprising: a mechanical frame; a roller coupled to and rotatable relative to the frame; and, a flywheel located within the roller.

Another form of the present invention contemplates a bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated; a rotatable rear roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated; a flywheel located within one of the rotatable intermediate roller and the rotatable rear roller; and, a mechanical drive coupled between the flywheel and one of the rotatable intermediate roller and the rotatable rear roller and upon rotation of the rear wheel the mechanical drive causes rotation of the flywheel at a rotational speed greater than the rotational speed of the roller that the flywheel is located within.

Yet another form of the present invention contemplates a bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated; a rotatable rear roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated; a belt coupling the front roller with one of the intermediate roller and the rear roller; and, a platform extending between the pair of frame rails and between the front roller and the intermediate roller, the platform having an outer surface for receiving the bicyclist thereon and a channel formed in the platform for the passage of the belt below the outer surface.

In yet another form the present invention contemplates a bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated at a first speed; a rotatable rear roller disposed between the pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated at a first speed; a flywheel located within one of the rotatable intermediate roller and the rotatable rear roller; and, means for driving the flywheel at speeds greater than the first speed.

Objects and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustrative perspective view of a conventional bicycle exercise roller system.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the bicycle exercise roller system of the present invention.

FIG. 2A is an illustrative view of a bicyclist utilizing one embodiment of the bicycle exercise roller system of present invention.

FIG. 3 is an exploded view of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A is an illustrative perspective view of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2 with the front roller removed.

FIG. 3B is an illustrative perspective view of one embodiment of the platform comprising a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is an illustrative partial sectional view of one embodiment of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged partial view of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 4.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of a portion of the drive roller including a flywheel therein of FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 is an illustrative sectional view of one embodiment of a drive roller comprising a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 8 is an illustrative sectional view of one embodiment of a drive roller including a flywheel therein which comprises a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 9 is an illustrative sectional view of another embodiment of a drive roller including a flywheel therein which comprises a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of the present invention.

FIG. 9A is an illustrative sectional view of another embodiment of a drive roller including a flywheel therein and a supplemental resistance device comprising a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of a portion of the drive roller including a locking mechanism of FIG. 5.

FIG. 11 is an illustrative sectional view of the locking mechanism comprising a portion of FIG. 5.

FIG. 12A is an illustrative sectional view of another embodiment of a drive roller including a flywheel therein comprising a portion of the bicycle exercise roller system of the present invention.

FIG. 12B is an illustrative sectional view illustrating an alternative drive mechanism for driving a flywheel with a roller.

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of one mounting mechanism for selectively locating a roller within a bicycle exercise roller system of the present invention.

FIG. 13B is a perspective view of the mounting mechanism of FIG. 13A in a state of being moved.

FIG. 14A is a sectional view illustrating the mounting mechanism of FIG. 13A in a locking position.

FIG. 14B is a side view of FIG. 14A.

FIG. 15A is a sectional view illustrating the mounting mechanism of FIG. 13B in a loosened mode.

FIG. 15B is a side view of FIG. 15A.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the bicycle exercise system of the present invention including a lockable folding frame.

FIG. 17 is partially fragmented view illustrating one embodiment of the locking mechanism for locking the frame rails in an open state.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view illustrating the folding frame folded and a carrying handle holding the drive belt for the front roller.

DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention is illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

With reference to FIGS. 2-3, there is illustrated one form of the exercise training apparatus/bicycle exercise roller system 20. The exercise training apparatus/bicycle exercise roller system will be referred to in the rest of the specification as a roller system. While the present inventions will be described with reference to bicycle exercise roller systems it is fully contemplated herein that many of the present inventions have application in other exercise/conditioning equipment such as but not limited to treadmills, unless specifically provided to the contrary. Referring to FIG. 2A, there is illustrated a bicyclist 101 riding a bicycle 102 on one embodiment of the roller system 20. The bicycle includes a front wheel 103 engaging a front roller 29 and a rear wheel 104 engaging an intermediate roller 28 and a rear roller 27. The term front wheel 103 and rear wheel 104 as used herein include a bicycle tire unless specifically stated to the contrary.

The present application contemplates alternate embodiments where the bicycle may also be ridden on the roller system without utilization of the front roller and/or the front wheel 103. In one form the bicycle may be supported by an external mechanical supporting structure. In one form the front wheel 103 is removed and a mechanical support engages the bicycle to support the front of the bicycle while the bicycle is ridden on the roller system 20. The rotation of rear wheel 104 causes the rotation of rollers 27 and 28. The present application contemplates that one of ordinary skill in the art can utilize other known techniques for supporting the bicycle.

Roller system 20 includes a mechanical frame 21 that supports the components of the system. The mechanical frame 21 includes a frame rail 22 that is spaced apart from frame rail 23. The frame rails 22 and 23 may include legs 21a to elevate the frame rails off of the floor/ground. In one form the frame rails 22 and 23 are continuous members and in another form the frame rails are formed of multiple portions connected at a hinge point 24. In one embodiment including a hinged frame rail 22, the hinged frame rail 22 includes a rear portion 22a and a front portion 22b that are coupled by a fastener, such as hinge bolt 25, washer 26a and nut 26. The hinged frame rail 23 includes a rear portion 23a and a front portion 23b that are coupled by a fastener, such as hinge bolt 25, washer 26a and nut 26. In one form the frame is made of extruded metal tubing, however other types of materials are contemplated herein. The present application contemplates a variety of other frame configurations including, but not limited to tri-fold, snap, interference, welded and other techniques as are believed generally known to those of ordinary skill in the art

Rollers 27, 28 and 29 are coupled to the mechanical frame 21. Each of the rollers 27, 28 and 29 are rotatable relative to the mechanical frame 21. The rollers will be referred to in the following manner: rear roller 27; intermediate roller 28; and front roller 29. Corresponding with each of the rollers 27, 28 and 29 is a respective axis of rotation X, Y, Z. In a preferred form of the present invention the rollers 27, 28 and 29 are generally positioned perpendicular to the frame rails 22 and 23. Each of the rollers 27, 28 and 29 is rotatably mounted to a respective shaft 41, 45 and 29a. The shafts 41, 45 and 29a are in turn fixedly mounted to the frame rails 22 and 23 by mechanical fasteners. In one form the ends of the shafts 41, 45 and 29a are threaded and passed through a portion of the frame rails and captured by a threaded fastener. Therefore, the rollers 27, 28 and 29 are rotatable about the shafts 41, 45 and 29a. In one form of the present invention the axis of rotation X, Y and Z are parallel to one another and to the surface that the roller system 20 is located upon. Further, the present application also contemplates embodiments wherein the shaft and roller may rotate together relative to the frame.

In one form of the present invention a platform 35 extends between the frame rails 22 and 23 and between the front roller 29 and the intermediate roller 28. The platform 35 has an outer surface 35a adapted for the bicyclist to place their feet on while mounting and dismounting the bicycle. In one form the location of the surface 35a allows the bicyclist to reach the platform with a portion of their feet while still sitting on the bicycle but does not interfere with the bicycle pedals during operation. In one form of the present invention a drive belt receiving channel 36 is formed in the platform 35. The drive belt receiving channel 36 allows a front roller drive belt 33 to pass to the front roller 29 beneath the outer surface 35a thereby preventing the front roller drive belt 33 from being stepped on during use of the roller system 20. Further, the platform 35 has sufficient strength to support the weight of the cyclist. The present application also contemplates a roller system 20 without any platform, and with platforms having alternative configurations to maintain the front roller drive belt below the outer surface of the platform. The present application contemplates that the platform 35 may be fixedly coupled to the frame rails 22 and 23 by mechanical fasteners, or may be moveable along the frame rails 22 and 23. In one form the platform 35 is positioned by the bicyclist at a desired location and is retained in that location by its own weight bearing against the frame rails 22 and 23.

With reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B there is illustrated one embodiment of the platform 35. In order to facilitate the viewing of platform 35 the front roller 29 has been removed. In one form the platform 35 includes a plurality of legs/bumpers 410 that extend from the bottom surface 35b of the platform 35. The legs/bumpers 410 are spaced apart and engage the inside surface of the frame rails 22 and 23 and locate the lateral position of the platform 35. Further, in one form the plurality of legs/bumpers 410 have an outer surface that is adapted to minimize slipping/movement of the legs/bumpers 410 relative to the inside surface of the frame rails 22 and 23. In one preferred form the plurality of legs/bumpers 410 have a rubberized/coated outer surface and in another preferred form the legs/bumpers 410 are formed of a rubber/elastomeric material. The rubber/elastomeric material may be natural or synthetic. Platforms with no legs/bumper and other styles/configurations of legs/bumpers are fully contemplated herein.

The roller system 20 receives the rear wheel 104 of bicycle 102 onto the rear roller 27 and the intermediate roller 28 and receives the front wheel 103 of the bicycle 102 onto the front roller 29. As discussed above, the present application also contemplates a roller system where the front portion of the bicycle is supported by an independent mechanical structure and the front wheel may or may not engage a roller. The rotation of the rear wheel 104 causes the rear roller 27 and the intermediate roller 28 to rotate. In one form the front roller drive belt 33 is coupled between the front roller 29 and the intermediate roller 28. The front roller drive belt 33 runs in a groove 29g formed in the front roller 29 and in a groove 28g formed in the intermediate roller 28. The front roller drive belt 33 is in tension and functions to transmit work to drive the front roller at substantially the same rotational speed as the intermediate roller 28 and the rear roller 27.

In one form of the present invention a drive belt 32 is coupled between a drive pulley 31 on the intermediate roller 28 and a pulley 30 associated with the rear roller 27. Pulley 30 is coupled to a flywheel 40 that will be described in detail below. Pulley 31 is rotatable with the intermediate roller 28 and provides the work necessary through the drive belt 32 to turn the pulley 30. The present application also contemplates an alternative embodiment wherein the drive pulley 31 can be attached to the rear roller 27 and the pulley 30 is associated with the intermediate roller 28. In either embodiment the rotation of the respective roller by the turning of the rear wheel 104 causes the drive pulley 31 to revolve and transfer work through drive belt 32 to turn pulley 30 and the flywheel 40.

With reference to FIGS. 4-9, there are illustrated sectional views of the rear roller 27 and intermediate roller 28. In one form of the present invention the rear roller 27 has a flywheel 40 located therein. The flywheel 40 is designed to absorb and release energy during the riding of bicycle 102 on the roller system 20 by the bicyclist. Further, the present invention contemplates that a flywheel may be located within the intermediate roller 28 and/or in both of the intermediate roller 28 and the rear roller 27. While the text of this application will generally describe the flywheel in terms of being located within the rear roller there is no intention to limit the placement of the flywheel within a specific roller unless specifically stated to the contrary.

In one form the rear roller 27 has a substantially cylindrical outer surface 27c that is adapted for engagement by a rear wheel 104. However, the present application contemplates that the outer surface may be, but is not limited to, convex, concave, crowned, parabolic. The roller has a circular cross section. In a preferred form the rear roller 27 is defined by a tube having substantially cylindrical outer surface 27c and a substantially cylindrical inner surface 27d. The present application also contemplates that the rear roller 27 may have portions that are of a non cylindrical shape, such as, but not limited to flared ends. In one form the roller 27 has an outside diameter within the range of about 3 to 5 inches and a wall thickness within the range of about 1/16 to ¼ inches. Materials appropriate for the roller 27 include plastics and metals, and a preferred material is an aluminum alloy. In a more preferred form the rollers are tubular and formed of an aluminum alloy with an outside diameter of 4.5 inches, an inside diameter of 4.25 inches.

The rear roller 27 is designed and constructed to withstand the loads associated with the bicyclist 101 riding the bicycle 102 thereon. With reference to FIG. 8, there is illustrated one embodiment of the roller 27 which includes end caps 27x and 27y that are attached to the roller 27 after the flywheel 40 has been installed within the roller 27. The end caps 27x and 27y are attached to the roller 27 by a press fit. However, other techniques of attaching the end caps 27x and 27y as would be known to one of ordinary skill in the art are contemplated herein.

Roller 27 is rotatably supported at each of its ends 200 and 201 by a bearing. In one embodiment of the present invention a bearing 100 mounts one end 200 of the roller 27 on shaft 41 and a bearing 43 mounts the other end 201 of the roller 27 relative to flywheel 40 on the shaft 41. Flywheel 40 located within rear roller 27 is supported on shaft 41 a bearing 42 at one end and another bearing 42 at the other end. In one form an outer pilot structure 110 of the flywheel 40 is mounted on bearing 42. The flywheel 40 rotates on bearings 42 about the shaft 41. Bearing 43 is mounted on the outer pilot structure 110 at end 201 and the roller 27 rotates about shaft 41 on bearing 43 and bearing 100 at end 200.

Shaft 41 is fixedly mounted at each of its ends to the respective frame rail 22 or 23. Each end of the shaft 41 includes a threaded portion 46 that is configured to receive a threaded fastener 50. A washer 52 is located on either side of a wall 120 of the frame rail 22 or 23. The shaft 41 includes a key feature 51 that has a geometric shape to match a portion of the opening through the wall 120 of the frame rail 22 or 23. In one form the key feature is of a square configuration so that the flats in the square match with corresponding surfaces in the opening and prevent rotation of the shaft. The threaded fastener 50 engages the threaded portion 46 and fixes the shaft 41 in place relative to the frame 21. The present application contemplates other techniques for fixedly connecting the shaft 41 with the frame rails 22 and 23.

Flywheel 40 may extend the substantial length within the roller 27 or may only extend a portion of the length of the roller 27. The flywheel 40 must be balanceable about the rotational centerline. In one form the flywheel is symmetrical about the rotational centerline. However, non-symmetrical structures are also contemplated, provided they are balanced about the rotational centerline.

In one form the flywheel 40 is of a cylindrical shape and more preferably is of a tubular configuration. The flywheel 40 has an outer surface 150 that may include details such as, but not limited to paddles, knurling and/or spiral threads, however in a preferred form the outer surface is a machined substantially smooth surface. In one embodiment the outer surface is a lathe turned surface, and in a preferred embodiment has a surface finish of about 125 micro-inches.

The outer surface of the flywheel is spaced from the inner surface of the roller. In one form the outer surface 150 is located within a range of about 0.050 to 0.200 inches from the inner surface 27d of the rear roller 27. In one form the inner surface 27d is substantially cylindrical. In another form the outer surface 150 is located within a range of about 0.010 to 0.050 inches form the inner surface 27d of the rear roller 27. However, other spacing between the flywheel and the roller are contemplated herein

In one form the flywheel 40, rear roller 27 and shaft 41 are all coaxial. The flywheel is preferably formed of steel, but other materials for the flywheel 40 are contemplated herein. In one form of the present invention the flywheel 40 and the rear roller 27 are formed of dissimilar materials. However, flywheels and rollers made of the same material are contemplated herein. One form of the present invention contemplates a flywheel having an outside diameter of 4.0 inches, an inside diameter of 3.5 inches and is formed of steel.

During rotation of the rear wheel 104 the flywheel 40 is rotated at speeds greater than the rotational speed of the rear roller 27 that the flywheel is contained within. The ability to drive the flywheel 40 at rotational speed greater than the rear roller 27 it is contained within is accomplished through a drive mechanism. In one form the drive mechanism includes: a pulley 31 connected to and driven by the intermediate roller 28 which is adjacent the rear roller 27; a pulley 30 connected with the flywheel 40 that is located within rear roller 27; and, a drive belt 32. The diameter of pulley 30 is selected to be smaller than pulley 31 and preferably the diameter of pulley 30 is within a range of about 0.8 to 1.5 inches and the diameter of pulley 31 is within a range of about 3 to 5 inches. In one form the of the present invention pulley 31 has a pitch diameter of 4.38 inches and pulley 30 has a pitch diameter of 1.18 inches, with a resulting speed ratio of 3.7:1. However, pulleys having other pitch diameters are contemplated herein thereby allowing for a variety of speed ratios. In one embodiment the flywheel is driven at rotational speeds within a range of about 3 to 5 times the rotational speed of the rear roller that contains the flywheel. The present application contemplates a wide variety of speed ratios and is not limited to the above ratios unless specifically provided to the contrary. The present application contemplates changing the pulleys and speed ratios.

With reference to FIG. 7, there is illustrated intermediate roller 28. The intermediate roller 28 includes an outer surface 28c that is contacted by rear wheel 104. Shaft 45 is fixedly mounted to frame rails 22 and 23 and the roller 28 revolves on bearings 48 about axis of rotation Y.

With reference to FIGS. 5, 10 and 11, there is illustrated one embodiment of a selectable attachment system 49 for coupling/decoupling the pulley 31 with the intermediate roller 28. The pulley 31 is mounted on bearing 47 and rotates about shaft 45 when coupled with the intermediate roller 28. In one form the selectable attachment system 49 includes a pair of threaded fasteners 300 that are selectively engaged with a threaded opening 301. Upon the threaded fasteners 300 being secured within the threaded openings 301 the pulley 31 rotates with the intermediate roller 28. Upon the threaded fasteners 300 being removed from the threaded openings 301 the pulley 31 is no longer driven by the intermediate roller 28 and is placed in a freewheeling mode. Therefore, work is not transmitted through belt 32 to pulley 30 and ultimately the flywheel 40 is not driven.

With reference to FIG. 10, there is illustrated one of the threaded fasteners 300 engaged with and coupled to the threaded opening 301. The other threaded fastener 300 is depicted in a disengaged state. Spring 310 located within housing 311 biases the threaded fastener 300 away from the threaded opening 301 to prevent interference when the pulley 31 is placed in a freewheeling state. With reference to FIG. 11, there is illustrated one of the threaded fasteners 300 engaged and the other threaded fastener disengaged from the roller 28. Upon both of the threaded fasteners 300 being disengaged the springs 310 bias the threaded fasteners from the threaded opening 301. Further, spring 315 biases the pulley 31 from the intermediate roller 28. The reader should appreciate that in the engaged mode the spring 315 is compressed and in the disengaged mode the spring 315 is extended.

In an alternate embodiment there is only one fastener for locking the pulley 31 and the intermediate roller 28 together. If a single fastener is utilized, a balance weight may be utilized to account for the mass imbalance in the system.

With reference to FIGS. 12A and 12B there is illustrated an alternative drive mechanism 600 for driving the flywheel 40 relative to the roller 27. Illustrated with the flywheel 40 is also a system for coupling/decoupling the flywheel 40 from the roller 27. In one form the drive mechanism 600 includes a ring gear 601 attached to the roller 27 and a sun gear 602 attached to the flywheel 40. A carrier 603 is mounted on the shaft 41 and carries a plurality of planet gears 604. The rotation of the ring gear 601 drives the planetary gears 604 which in turn drive the sun gear 602. The operation of a planetary gear train is believed known to those of ordinary skill in the art.

In one form of the system for coupling/decoupling the rotation of the flywheel 40 from the roller 27 there is utilized the movement of carrier 603 in a spline 610. The carrier 603 is moved in the axial direction along the shaft 41 to either engage or disengage the planetary gears 604 from the sun gear 602 and the ring gear 601.

With reference to FIG. 9, there is illustrated a rear roller 27 with a flywheel 40a extending only a partial distance within the roller. The flywheel 40a is substantially similar to the flywheels described above. With reference to FIG. 9A, there is illustrated a rear roller 27 that includes a flywheel 40 and a supplement resistance device 501. In one form the supplemental resistance device is a permanent magnet eddy current hysteresis dynamometer. The magnets of the permanent magnet eddy current hysteresis dynamometer may be magnetically coupled with the roller 27 and/or the flywheel. In one form, the magnets may be fixed to the shaft and the proximity of the magnets to the roller or flywheel manually controlled to achieve the desired resistance. In another form, the magnets may be mechanically coupled to either the flywheel or the roller and magnetically coupled to the other component. Further, the present application contemplates a variety of other supplemental resistance devices including, but not limited to a direct current motor/generator, a fan or paddlewheel, a friction device, a viscous fluid device and other devices as are believed generally known to those of ordinary skill in the art. The present application further contemplates the utilization of a roller system with multiple supplemental resistance devices.

With reference to FIGS. 13-15, there is illustrated one embodiment of the present invention for adjusting the position of a roller. The present application will describe the mechanism of adjusting the location of the roller in respect to the front roller 29. In one form a slot 800 is formed in the frame rail 23 and includes a plurality of scallops 801 that are useable to align the position of the threaded fastener 50. In order to adjust the position of the roller the fastener 50 is loosened at each of the frame rails 22 and 23. In the present invention the threaded fastener 50 is only loosened and remains coupled with the threaded portion 46 of the shaft as it is moved within the slot 800. The threaded fastener 50 is loosened to pass the reduced diameter portion 50a between the top 805 and bottom 806 of the scallops 801. With the reduced diameter portion 50a between the top 805 and bottom 806 of the scallops 801 the fastener 50 while attached to the shaft can be slid along the slot 800 and thereby change the location of the roller 29. The threaded fasteners 50 are positioned at the desired location and the threaded fasteners are then tightened. The belt 33 is temporarily removed from groove 29g in order to facilitate movement of the roller 29. The present application contemplates alternate embodiments of the present invention where the slot 800 does not include scallops 801 or has different changes in geometric shape.

With reference to FIGS. 16-18, there is illustrated one embodiment of the handle 34 integrated with the frame 21. The system for carrying the frame 21, and/or locking the frame 21 in an open position and/or carrying the belt 33 is utilizable with all types of roller systems and is not limited to use with the systems of the present application unless specifically provided to the contrary. For the avoidance of doubt the handle/carrying system is applicable with virtually all types of folding rollers. In one form of the present invention each of the frame portions 22b and 23b include a hinge portion 900 that is coupled to the corresponding frame portion 22a and 22b. Fastener 25 joins the respective components together.

Handle 34 included engagement pins 901 (FIG. 3) at each end. In one form the handle 34 is spring loaded and is compressed to get into position between the rails 22 and 23. Upon the handle being properly positioned the handle is allowed to extend due to spring bias and pushes the engagement pins 901 into the respective holes 910 in frame portion 23a and 22a and holes 915 in the hinge portion 900 when the frame 21 is in an open state. The engagement pins 901 hold the frame 21 in an open position as shown in FIG. 16. Upon folding the frame 21 about the hinge portions 900 the handle 34 is removed and engagement pins 901 are withdrawn from openings 910 in frame portions 22a and 23a and holes 915 in hinge portion 900. The frame 21 is then folded and the handle 34 is compressed so that engagement pins 901 can be deployed through holes 910. The spring force within handle 34 biases the engagement pins 901 into a locking relationship within holes 910. The handle 34 can then be utilized to grasp and carry the roller system.

In one embodiment the handle 34 further functions to provide a storage location for the belt 33 when the frame is folded. The belt 33 is wound around the handle 34 prior to insertion of the handle between the frame portions 22 and 23 as shown in FIG. 18.

In roller systems of the present invention the flywheel has the capability to store and release enough energy to allow the bicyclist to stop pedaling for a period of time as the rear wheel coasts on the intermediate and rear rollers. The traditional roller systems as described in FIG. 1, allow a very short period of time for coasting. The cost down time on a prior roller system such as in FIG. 1, affords the rider approximately 2-3 seconds as the bicycle speed drops from about 35 miles per hour to 10 miles per hour. In contrast bicycle roller(s) of the present invention may provide relatively long coast down times. The present application contemplates that roller systems of the present invention may provide coast down times from 35 miles per hour to 10 miles per hour at durations of approximately 20-30 seconds, however other coast times are contemplated herein. During these relatively long coasts the bicyclist will have sufficient time to stretch his legs, to rise out of the saddle to allow blood flow to return to the groin and buttock areas, and/or to adjust his clothing.

Second, energy absorbed and released during each pedal stroke effectively smoothes out the rider's pedaling action. This allows the rider to pedal while standing with greater ease and comfort than with prior rollers.

Third, the flywheel absorbs approximately 15-20 times more energy during a typical acceleration from 10 to 35 miles per hour. This makes interval training much more productive than with prior rollers.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiment has been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected. It should be understood that while the use of the word preferable, preferably or preferred in the description above indicates that the feature so described may be more desirable, it nonetheless may not be necessary and embodiments lacking the same may be contemplated as within the scope of the invention, that scope being defined by the claims that follow. In reading the claims it is intended that when words such as “a,” “an,” “at least one,” “at least a portion” are used there is no intention to limit the claim to only one item unless specifically stated to the contrary in the claim. Further, when the language “at least a portion” and/or “a portion” is used the item may include a portion and/or the entire item unless specifically stated to the contrary. Each patent and/or publication referred to herein is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Claims

1. An exercise training apparatus, comprising: a mechanical frame; a roller coupled to and rotatable relative to said frame; and a flywheel located within said roller.

2. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said flywheel and said roller are positioned co-axially.

3. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said roller and said flywheel are tubular.

4. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said roller has a circular cross section and said flywheel is balanced.

5. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, which further includes a shaft fixedly coupled between a first portion of said mechanical frame and a second portion of said mechanical frame; and wherein said roller and said flywheel are positioned coaxial with said shaft and rotatably mounted on said shaft.

6. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said mechanical frame includes a first frame member and a second frame member spaced therefrom; wherein said roller includes a shaft fixedly coupled to said first frame member and said second frame member; wherein said roller is located between said frame members and rotates about said shaft; and wherein said flywheel rotates about said shaft.

7. The exercise training apparatus of claim 6, wherein said shaft and said roller and said flywheel are coaxial; wherein said flywheel includes an outer surface; wherein said roller includes an inner surface; wherein said outer surface is spaced about 0.050 to 0.200 inches from said inner surface; and wherein said roller and said flywheel are substantially tubular.

8. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, which further includes a supplemental load device located within said roller and disposed co-axially with said roller and said flywheel.

9. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, which further includes a second roller coupled to and rotatable relative to said frame; and which further includes a second flywheel located within said second roller.

10. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said mechanical frame includes a first frame member and a second frame member spaced therefrom; wherein said roller includes a shaft fixedly coupled between said first frame member and said second frame member; which further includes a pair of first bearings located between said shaft and said flywheel to enable said flywheel to rotate relative to said shaft; which further includes a second bearing located between said flywheel and said roller to enable said roller to rotate relative to said flywheel; which further includes a third bearing located between said shaft and said roller to enable said roller to rotate relative to said shaft; wherein said flywheel includes an outer cylindrical surface; wherein said roller includes an inner cylindrical surface; wherein said outer surface is spaced about 0.050 to 0.200 inches from said inner surface.

11. The exercise training apparatus of claim 1, wherein said mechanical frame includes a pair of frame rails, each of said frame rails being foldable about a hinge point.

12. The exercise training apparatus of claim 11, wherein each of said frame rails includes a first portion and a second portion adjacent said hinge point; and which further includes means for locking said portions in at least one of an open or closed position.

13. A bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated; a rotatable rear roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated; a flywheel located within one of said rotatable intermediate roller and said rotatable rear roller; and a mechanical drive coupled between said flywheel and one of said rotatable intermediate roller and said rotatable rear roller and upon rotation of the rear wheel said mechanical drive causes rotation of said flywheel at a rotational speed greater than the rotational speed of the roller that said flywheel is located within.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein said flywheel rotates at speeds about three to five times greater than the speed of the roller that it is located within.

15. The system of claim 13, which further includes a drive engagement system operable with said mechanical drive, said drive engagement system having a first mode wherein said mechanical drive is engaged and causes rotation of the flywheel upon rotation of the rear wheel and a second mode wherein said mechanical drive is freewheeling and does not cause rotation of the flywheel upon rotation of the rear wheel.

16. The system of claim 13, wherein said mechanical drive includes a ring gear coupled with one of said rotatable intermediate roller and said rotatable rear roller, and said mechanical drive further includes a sun gear connected with said flywheel, and said mechanical drive includes a plurality of planet gears disposed between said ring gear and said sun gear.

17. The system of claim 13, wherein said flywheel and the roller said flywheel is located within are co-axial; and wherein said flywheel and said roller said flywheel is located within are substantially tube shaped.

18. The system of claim 13, wherein said flywheel includes a first pulley, and the other of said intermediate roller and said rear roller that the flywheel is not located within includes a second pulley, said first pulley having a smaller diameter than said second pulley; and which further includes a belt coupling said first pulley and said second pulley.

19. The system of claim 18, which further includes a lock for selectively coupling said first pulley with said rotatable intermediate roller.

20. The system of claim 13, which includes a belt coupled between said rotatable intermediate roller and said rotatable front roller, and upon rotation of said intermediate roller said front roller is rotated; which further includes a platform extending between said pair of spaced frame rails and located between said rotatable front roller and said rotatable intermediate roller, said platform having an upper deck surface adapted to receive the bicyclist thereon; and said platform including a channel formed therein for the passage of the belt below the upper deck surface.

21. A bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated; a rotatable rear roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated; a belt coupling said front roller with one of said intermediate roller and said rear roller; and a platform extending between said pair of frame rails and between said front roller and said intermediate roller, said platform having an outer surface for receiving the bicyclist thereon and a channel formed in the platform for the passage of the belt below the outer surface.

22. A bicycle exercise roller system for riding a bicycle having a front and a rear wheel thereon, comprising: a mechanical frame including a pair of spaced frame rails; a rotatable front roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the front wheel of the bicycle thereagainst; a rotatable intermediate roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the intermediate roller is rotated at a first speed; a rotatable rear roller disposed between said pair of frame rails and adapted for receiving the rear wheel of the bicycle thereagainst, and upon rotation of the rear wheel the rear roller is rotated at a first speed; a flywheel located within one of said intermediate rotatable roller and said rotatable rear roller; and means for driving said flywheel at speeds greater than said first speed.