Patent Application
20240366995
The present invention relates to exercise devices and in particular, hybrid running devices.
Running and bicycling are two forms of cardiovascular exercise that so many people participant in. Exercise fitness devices, equipment, machines, etc. are well known and include bicycle, upright bicycle, recumbent bicycle, hybrid bicycle type, climbing, cross country skiing devices, elliptical, hybrids of motion, rowing, stair, stepping, stride, striding, treadmills, etc. Some of these devices attempt to mimic running motions and some make claims that they are substitutes for running, etc. but fall short of natural movement, forces and the patterns of forces that a runner exerts and experiences against themselves that are similar to actual running.
The effects of the forces of running that are observed by the eye are displayed in the above ground movements of the runner. We can see the biomechanics and the speed at which the runner moves along the ground, but the forces that are generated downward into and thru the ground are not seen with the naked eye. These forces are downward and curvilinear in nature into and against the ground. A runner drives their knees, thighs upward and forward and then downward creating a thrust against the ground. In the present invention a person can actually perform in a manner that is similar like running, it allows a user to drives their knees, thighs upward and forward and then downward and creating a thrust against the resistance. These forces also translate downward and curvilinear as physically seen as a user uses this device thru the extended and varying range of the travel path of motions.
The devices, machines previously mentioned other than the treadmill have fixed, semi-fixed limited predetermined motion patterns. These devices with left and right side linkage systems are fixed relative to each other and work in tandem and the second link member do not have any independence from each other. Several of these exercise devices fixed motion patterns can be adjusted mechanically manually and or electronically through controls as in varying the angle of an aspect, but still moving in predetermined motion patterns. They do not properly allow for the varying heights, leg lengths, step and or stride lengths of individual users. They also do not properly allow for varying step, stride lengths based on speed and or personal preference of the user during the exercise based upon the natural exertion and speed of the user. The motions allowed for a user tend to have smaller restricted circumferences that restrain and narrow the range of a user's motion compared to the range and movement of natural running. Some examples of devices that fall short of the present invention are bicycle type device such as U.S. Pat. No. 7,140,626. Elliptical devices as U.S. Pat. Nos. 11,000,730, and 9,468,798. A hybrid device labeled pendulous such as U.S. Pat. No. 7,780,577. A stepper motion device U.S. Pat. No. 10,207,147. Other devices that only have limited circle foot supports travel paths of motion and only intended for bicycling and do not provide for a natural running motion are Crank arm devices such as U.S. Pat. No. 7,607,370 and Hase Bikes shortened crank arm; https://hasebikes.com/media/hase-bikes-catalog-2022.pdf Page No. 80. Each of these references are herein incorporated by reference for all that they contain inclusive of the referenced cites contained within them.
The present invention overcomes these restrictions by allowing a user to utilize a much more natural running motion. The range is broad and tends to accommodate a comfortable broad range and circumference that is similar to natural running. The user may drive their knees up and forward and may move at a faster pace which can elongate their stride motion pattern. The motion patterns on the present invention have a maximum parameter motion pattern, but allows the user to freely and naturally vary their own motion pattern within the maximum parameter allowed just by asserting their own forces while exercising within a varying broad range within the outer full limit range that the invention allows. The motion pattern that the user asserts is not predetermined, but a result of an action based upon the user's exertion, speed and technique while they are run cycling, exercising.
The devices, machines mentioned other than the treadmill also have foot supports that are fixed in their respective place and are configured with a fixed width in-between the foot supports.
The present invention overcomes those restrictions by allowing a user to move their feet connected with the foot supports freely inwardly and outwardly while exercising thus varying their step width. This allows for a much more natural and individual step width while runcycling that is natural with walking, jogging and running.
Some elliptical and hybrid devices give the illusion of running based on the visual motion, but does not emulate the forces of running. Some elliptical devices are more similar to a form of cross country skiing where a person exerts force that tends to be linear. While other elliptical devices have similarities of cross country skiing and a semi stepping motion. In addition this type of device lowers the effort needed by the user to lift their own legs while exercising. As one leg exerts effort downward it causes the device to raise the opposite leg upward.
Steppers typically have components that allow the user to move their legs, feet in a very limited set pattern motion. They tend to move on an angled straight line upwards and downwards.
Stair-climbers are moving stairs and may be called a stair-mill. They incorporate steps that replicate a set of stairs that move, revolve on an incline angle. Similar to a treadmill, but with steps, stairs. A user steps up onto a step and lifts their body, by extending their leg downward against the step as their foot travels on a fixed angle which is then reciprocated by the other leg with the same motion onto the next step. The motion is fixed.
Bicycles; stationary bicycles configured on a frame and or bicycles configured on a frame attached on wheels. Bikes provide aerobic and or anaerobic workouts that can strengthen and tone the muscles of the legs and buttocks. Bicycles provide a circular motion for a user's feet to travel on that is widely accepted and fairly comfortable, but predetermined and fixed in distance from the axis of the connection between the right and left crank arms. In addition this type of device lowers the effort needed by the user to lift their own legs while exercising if the user is not using shoe cleats, toe clips, etc. to connect the user's feet with the foot supports. As one leg exerts effort downward it causes the device to raise the opposite leg upward.
The width in-between a user's feet while pedaling is different than walking, running. Pure pedaling has a typical q factor of 150 mm to 170 mm. These exercise devices mentioned are restrictive and narrow in range and motion flexibility. Walking, jogging and running is substantially less in width than the typical 0 factor for bicycling. Step width or stride width for adults is typically between 25 mm to 77 mm.
Treadmills allow for the freedom of the natural biomechanics of running, natural stride lengths. stride and step widths and natural gaits unlike the other exercise devices. In addition, Treadmills may have a cushioned shock absorbing surface that can reduce the impact, but not eliminate the impacts that are associated with running on a runners body when running on other types of surfaces, such as the ground, paving, etc. Bikes are considered little to no impact.
Treadmills fall substantially short for decreasing impact while running and the other exercise devices fall substantially short for allowing the comfort and effects that come from the free natural motion of natural running.
Patents cover a vast array of inventions for bicycling, crank arms, elliptical, stepping and combinations of such, but not one teaches, anticipates whether independently or in combinations the present invention.
The present invention is a unique inventive synergistic configuration of components that provides a novel exercise device the “Run Cycle.”
The present invention relates to an exercise device.
Embodiments of the present invention facilitate a more natural running and rotational cycling movement that allows a user to individually under their own physical autonomous biomechanical effort and power in real time modify variations in their running motion and stride while run cycling. It allows the user the freedom in real time flexible, variable motion and variable step, stride lengths and step widths initiated by the user while exercising. The user may automatically and individually modify their movement freely within a maximum extended perimeter that allows for a variable custom travel path movement facilitating a running and a curvilinear motion movement called run cycling.
Some embodiments of the present invention allow, encourage and promote a user to drive their knees upward and forward enhancing healthy running biomechanics. It diminishes impact if any on the user's body. The Impact is similar to bicycling.
In an embodiment the exercise device of the present invention may include or consist of a frame that may sit on a support surface, floor, ground, etc. The components of the exercise device, for instance the run cycling exerciser device, are attached and connected with the frame. The components may include or consist of singular and or plural, in combination(s), but not limited to handle(s) bar(s), upper trunk support, link members such as link tubing, crank arm(s), crank disk(s) and crank pulley(s) also cantilever configuration of link members, link attachments, crank attachment(s), connection(s), one way clutch device(s), friction reducing devise(s), bearing(s), angular load device(s), radial load device(s), axial load device(s), foot support(s), rotational foot support(s), lateral or horizontal moving foot support(s), foot support axle(s), pedal(s), pedaling mechanism, an axis, axis axle(s), drive axle, a crankshaft(s), bottom bracket(s), chainwheel(s), gear(s), sprocket(s), pulley(s), pulleywheel(s), flywheel(s), wheel(s), which could be used with a direct gear(s), drive gear(s), chain(s), belt(s), actuator(s), etc. resistance device(s), flywheel(s), weighted flywheel(s), braking system(s), electro magnetic system(s), wheel(s), etc. device(s) for adjusting resistance, tension in and or against the pedaling, rotating mechanism. In addition, the exercise device may also have a seat and/or handle(s). The exercise device may be a stationary exercise device.
The first set of link member(s) as used herein may include crank arm(s), crank disk(s) and crank pulley(s) and can all be used interchangeably. The crank disk may be configured to serve as a first crank arm. The crank disk can also be configured to serve as a crank pulley which is used in the drive system and configured to also serve as a first crank arm aka pulleywheel.
In various embodiments, the user would engage with the exercise device, placing, incorporating and/or securing their feet with the foot supports. Foot supports may include or consist of pedals, pedals with straps, toe clips, etc. and or shoe attachment, connection for foot inserting, incorporating. In addition, the foot supports may be incorporated on a foot support axle. The foot supports may rotate, e.g. about the foot support axle. In addition the foot supports may also be configured to move laterally i.e. horizontally, wherein the lateral direction may be parallel to an axial direction defined by the foot support axle and/or the axis, e.g. axle axis. Both of those aspects of rotating and moving lateral may be done simultaneously while the user is exercising, run cycling. The user initiates operation of the device by performing the running-cycling action of the legs to generate a rotation of the drive axle.
One end of the first link member such as a crank arm is typically attached with an axis, such as an axis type axle. The axis type axle may be incorporated into a drive system. The drive system may have resistance against it. The exercise device may comprise a resistance device. For example, for a stationary exercise type of device such as a but not limited to; stationary bicycles, steppers, elliptical devices, elliptical type of devices, etc. a resistance device may include a wide gamut of applications, such as electro magnets, eddy current systems, generator, magnets, alternators, brakes, flywheels, friction, pads, belts, fans, etc. In another example of an exercise devise, such as an outdoor bicycle with wheel(s), resistance may be provided by moving along a surface such as the ground based upon gravity, air resistance and the speed at which the user, exerciser asserts and effects.
These exercise devices with resistance typically incorporate an axle, crankshaft incorporated into a bottom bracket, which turns a drive system, which may include a multitude of component(s) as mentioned throughout this document, flywheel, generator, magnet, etc. by configuration of a direct drive, gear, belt or chain, etc.
The resistance may be controlled manually by the user, mechanically and/or electronically. Mechanically may include, but not limited to the following; knobs, switches, pulling devices, etc. Electronically may include, but not limited to the following: electric controls, computer(s), internet, wifi, cell phone, etc. either directly and or remotely. Programs may be manually operated and or predetermined and or designed and manually and or electronically operated.
Additional components and or characteristics include, but are not limited to the following; Computer controlled/Electronic/WiFi/Multi user WiFi link(s)/Real time/Group/Classes/Pre-Programmed programs/Programs that include a users weight and percentage of the grade, such as the incline and or decline of the terrain, surface that is in the program/Real world simulation/Virtual world animation/All of the available interactions available today.
Actuator(s) may also be utilized for changing orientation, grade, angle(s) of the frame relative to the ground.
In an embodiment the present invention, the exercise device, e.g. run-cycle device, has a dual set of link members linked together forming and comprising a left and a right side linkage system application. The first set of link members may be connected with an axle and/or, axis attached with a frame, e.g. the frame mentioned above. The first set of link members, e.g. first set of first link members, are rotational about that axis in the frame. The second set of link members, e.g. second set of second link members, may be connected with the first set of link members, and may be at a location distal from the axis in the frame that the first set of link members is connected with. Located distally can refer to located at a distance measured in radial direction from the axis of rotation. Distal location may be equated with radial and or longitudinal location in the context of this disclosure. The connection of and between the second and first link members of the left and right side link members may be positioned at 180 degrees relative to each other. Thus when the left side connection of the second link member with the first link member is at is at 12:00 o'clock, the connection of the right side second link member with the first link member is at 0:00 o'clock.
In another embodiment the present invention, the exercise device, e.g. run-cycle device, has at least three sets of link members linked together forming and comprising a left and a right side linkage system application. The first set of link members may be connected with an axle and/or axis attached with a frame, e.g. the frame mentioned above. The first set of link members are rotational about that axis in the frame. The second set of link members connected with the first set of link members is at a location distal i.e. radial, longitudinal from the axis in the frame that the first set of fink members is connected with. The connection of and between the second and first link members of the left and right side link members may be positioned at 180 degrees relative to each other. Thus when the left side connection of the second link member with the first link member is at is at 12:00 o'clock the connection of the right side second link member with the first link member is at 0:00 o'clock.
In addition in the embodiment as previously described the connection of and between the second and first link members of the left and right side link members that may be positioned at 130 degrees relative to each other such that the connections on both sides work and rotate in tandem and are fixed while the second link members are free to rotate one way and swing upward and forward independently of each other. The first link members are typically connected and configured to both simultaneously rotate in the same direction. The second link members may be configured to rotate or pivot independently of each other. Further, one or both of the second link members may be configured to rotate or pivot independently of the corresponding first link member attached to it.
A one way mechanism may be incorporated in many different ways with, into, as a part of the connection of and in-between the first and second set of link members such-as crank arms. The weight and force of the user placed on the foot supports, preferably pedals, may put a downward and may put a diagonal, angular load, force on the one way connection of the first and second link members such as crank arms. In the present disclosure, the term “rotatable one way” may refer to rotatable in only one direction, e.g. clockwise or counterclockwise, while the other direction is a blocked. If not stated otherwise, the term “rotatable” may refer to rotatable in at least one direction or both directions.
In an embodiment of the configuration of a dual set of link members the connection that connects the second and first set of link members such as crank arms together is to provide support for loads, transmit, transfer forces, help alignment, guide, transfer motion, reduce friction and to facilitate movement amongest parts, components, etc. which turn, move relative to one another. A one way clutch load device may be used in this configuration. Also a one way clutch load device and an angular load device(s) may also be used in another configuration. These may be one device or more than one device configured together incorporated with, in the connection connecting the second and first link members such as crank arms together.
In an embodiment the left side second link member may be configured to rotate one way clockwise and the right side second €n€k member may be configured to rotate one way counter clockwise. In a further embodiment the left side second link member may be configured to rotate one way counter clockwise and the right side second link member may be configured to rotate one way counter clockwise. As indicated below, the definitions clockwise and counter clockwise may depend on the viewing point. The left side second link member and the right side second link member may be configured to rotate in the same direction when observed from one fixed viewing point.
There are multiple ways to achieve angular load support for the application of the swing crank arm linked with the first fixed link member such as a crank arm, crank disk, crank pulley. Friction reducing applications of the incorporated moving parts, Sleeves, (may be made out of industrial plastics, resins, metals, etc. bearings angular contact, one or several configured, etc. to reduce fiction and maintain a stable movement of the swing crank arm while also preserving the life, use expectancy of the parts, configured, etc.
In an embodiment of a one way device, friction reducing device, mechanism, bearing, etc. configured with the connection to counteract downward force. In addition attaching an angular, radial, axial, diagonal load type device, friction reducing device, mechanism, bearing, etc. to counteract diagonal, angular loads and forces configured with the connection or having one device that incorporates all of the mentioned characteristics mentioned for a one way device and an angular, radial, axial, diagonal forces, etc. counteracting friction reducing device all as one device configured with the connection between of the first and second link member such as crank arm. This configuration may also provide load support for the extension and downward motion of the second crank arm and support against angular, radial, axial, diagonal loads, forces on the second crank arms.
An embodiment of the one way and angular device may be configured in several differing ways. It may be a one way and angular load device in a single housing unit. It may be a one way device aligned next to an angular load device. It may be either device inserted into the other device. Such as and inserted within each other, such as with a pipe type axle allowing one component in the pipe and the other component on the outside of the pipe. They may be aligned next to each other in any order. There may be more than one of the same one way and angular load device. They may also be configured in a manner that they share the same housing. Point of connection and component(s). Said connection, attachment may include or consist of one way rotatable device. A rotatable device my be inserted in either link member such as a crank arm, or a combination of both link members such as crank arms. The connection attachment may be inserted with one way rotatable device and said connection attachment may be attached so that it can be fixed with each link member such as a crank arm and or adjustable along the link member such as a crank arm. The second link member usually is under downward and angular loads, therefore there may be another bearing, device etc. that is inserted to offset the radial and angular loads.
In an embodiment of the inner connection between and of the first and second link members may include or consist of a shaft, post, rod, axle, etc. Suitable for inserting, attaching, connecting, etc. a friction reducing one way clutch device on the outside of the shaft, post, rod, axle, etc.
In another embodiment of the connection it may include or consist of a pipe type axle. Suitable for inserting, attaching, connecting, etc. a friction reducing one way clutch device(s) and or an angular load device(s) on the outside of the pipe axle and inserting, attaching, connecting another friction reducing one way clutch device(s) and or an angular load device(s)on the inside of the pipe axle. Thus the second link member, e.g. swing crank arm, may swing one way while having improved angular, axial, radial strength and stability.
In a preferred embodiment, the swing crank arm that swings one way that is connected with said axis axle connector has an area bored out in it as a blind doughnut hole configuration. The term “doughnut hole” used in the present disclosure may refer to a ring-shaped hole. The portion remaining that is center of the blind doughnut hole may serve as a shaft and/or axis that may be incorporated into a radial, axial, angular load bearing device. Further, said radial, axial, angular load bearing device can also be connected with and in the inner wall portion of the pipe axle connector. In addition, a one way clutch device is also incorporated into and with the outer wall of the blind doughnut hole in the swing crank arm. Further, said one way clutch device may also be connected with and on the outside of the pipe axle connector. Thus, in this configuration the swing crank arm has the ability to swing one way and simultaneously have improved angular, radial, axial strength and stability.
The first and second link members such as crank arms may be attached, connected with each other in many different ways. The connection may use a threaded device such that there is a male and female threaded application. Such as there are a threaded component that is inserted, screwed into another threaded receiving component such as a male and female application. Square, hex, tapered inserts, etc., different patterns for inserting, receiving, tightening and securing with each other are anticipated. The attachment may also be a pressed fit. The first and second link members may be fixed with each other and rotatable with respect to each other. By being connected and having the ability to detach the second link members from the first link members allows for adjustability of the positioning of the second crank arm connection point with the first link member such as a crank arm in distance relative from the axis connected with the frame and the first link member such as a crank arm.
In a preferred embodiment the second link member, e.g. second crank arm, attached with the first link member such as a crank arm is adjustable in distance relative from the axis in the frame that the first link member such as a crank arm is also attached with.
In an ennoblement, the second link member, e.g. swing second link member such as a crank arm may be made out of steel, but in a preferred embodiment the swing second link member such as a crank is comprised of a lighter weight material than steel, such as aluminum, titanium, carbon fiber, composite(s), industrial resin(s), plastic(s), etc.
The second set of swinging one way crank arms connected with an attachment with the first set of link members such as cranks arms-may utilize a clutch, one way bearing, brake system in order to allow it to move one way, e.g. rotate it one way. The amount of swing is not predetermined, but determined by the user's exertion as in natural running. If the user prefers to move, e.g. run in an easy manner or a slower pace it is possible and if the user prefers to move in a strong running and a faster pace manner that is also possible. The user has the luxury and ability to naturally assert an amount of effort and move in a natural running style motion that allows the user to naturally and in real time control and variate the motion, the size of strides, the range of motion and travel paths of motion.
The user being connected with the foot supports drives the swing crank arm upward and forward by driving their legs, knee upward and forward. In order to allow a more natural running motion the swing crank arms may be made out of lighter weight material than steel. In addition the foot supports, pedals configuration may also be made out of lighter weight material than steel. For example when aluminum is being used it is approx. one third the weight of standard steel. The user when naturally running only has the weight of their own leg and shoes if wearing shoes, therefore the effect of using a lighter material, which reduces the weight of the second swing crank arm and allows the user greater freedom to mimic a more natural running motion.
The movable link members are propelled into movement by forces that the user applies to the link members. For example in an embodiment, similar to an upright stationary bicycle device with a first set of crank arms consisting of a left and right crank arm, the present invention would have an additional second set of left and right crank arms that may swing one way forward. The user, exerciser would engage with the foot supports, such as pedals and these pedals would allow for securing the user's feet, shoes with the pedals so that not only is there a downward force placed on the pedals, but an ability to swing the pedals freely upward and forward.
The second set of link members may move, rotate, swing one way forward as the movement of the first set of link members are rotating about the axis attached with the frame. The left side and right side are mirror applications of this.
In an embodiment the foot supports may be incorporated on a foot support axle. The foot supports may rotate. In addition the foot supports may also move laterally. Both of those aspects of rotating and moving lateral may be done simultaneously while the user is exercising, run cycling.
A Q factor is a lateral or horizontal distance measured from the outside of the second link members. A Q factor as used in typical bicycling language defines the distance laterally or horizontal in-between the outside of one crank arm to the outside of the opposite crank arm. The Q factor and step width minimum in between the users feet is subject to whether or not there is framing and or components in-between the foot supports.
In an embodiment with the frame configured in between the left and right side crank arm linkage system the left side second link member may move, rotate, swing one way clockwise and the right side second link member may move, rotate, swing one way counter clockwise.
In an embodiment with components in-between the foot supports with the foot supports located on the outside of the frame, components such as link members, crank arms, pulley, gear, sprocket, chain or belt, drive system, etc. limit the Q factor inward in how close the users foot width may be while exercising based upon the width of the frame and components. In-between the foot supports. The Q factor may be adjusted laterally outward and back inward the amount adjusted outward in this configuration by a manual adjustment or under the user's own assertion while exercising, run cycling.
In a preferred embodiment minimizing and decreasing the space also known as the Q factor in-between the foot supports is achieved by utilizing as the first link members, crank disks that may also serve as a pulley aka crank pulley aka pulleywheel incorporated into the drive system. Thus by utilizing a crank pulley that also functions as the first link member and no additional pulley, sprocket and or gear component of and for the drive system is required in-between the first set of link members. This reduction of additional drive system component(s) helps reduce the space, width in-between the foot supports also known as the Q factor which helps a user feel a more natural running, run-cycling movement.
In another embodiment the frame and/or drive components may be configured without being in between the left and right side link member linkage system and the left side second crank link member may move, rotate, swing one way counter clockwise and the right side second link member may move, rotate, swing one way clockwise. By configuring the linkage system with no frame or comments €n between them a comfortable, natural step, stride width is achievable.
In the embodiment with no frame and or components configured in-between the left and right side foot supports and foot support axles the foot supports are free to rotate and move laterally so that the user may vary their step width >0 either in real time as they are exercising, run cycling or pre-adjusting them manually prior to exercising, run-cycling. Its limit inward is to the point that the foot supports, foot supports axles will not infringe on each other as they pass each other during use. This embodiment allows for a close to zero midline step, stride width in-between the user's feet while exercising.
The frame that is configured with non-centered framing, but with a left frame and a right frame structure allows the moving link member system with foot supports incorporated with foot support axles to vary in width with a step width >0 while exercising. The step width SW may vary inward >0 and outward from midline allowing a user to change their step, step width, step length, stride, while run-cycling as they intend to vary it according to their personal biomechanical preferences.
In a preferred embodiment the run cycle device has a typical drive resistance system device such as those found on a typical stationary bicycle, elliptical devices, etc. Thus the first set of the left and a right link members such as crank arms are fixed with one end connected with a mechanism that's also an axis incorporated with turning the drive system. When utilizing link members such as crank disk(s), crank pulley(s) as the first set of link members these link members are fixed and connected from their center with a mechanism that's also an axis incorporated with turning the drive system.
This first set of left and right link members, such as crank arms or when crank disks, crank pulleys are used the connection point in-between the first set of left and right link members with the second set of left and right link members are fixed at degrees relative to each other, thus when one crank arm or the connection point in-between the first and second link member is at the 12:00 position the other is at the 6:00 position and vice versa. This pattern is fixed thru out a full 360 degree rotation such as it is with the first set of crank arms as in a standard bicycle.
The clock's hour hand as used for descriptive explanation for positioning of the Left and Right Crank arms or the connection point in-between of the first and second link members with positions relative to each other as following;
For example;
The second set of a left and a right crank arms may be connected where the pedals are typically connected with the first set of left and right crank arms of a typical stationary bicycle or bicycle. As the first link member crank arm and/or connection point of and in-between the first link member with the second link member approaches the 12:00 position the second crank arm connected with the first crank arm or crank disk, crank pulley may swing, move freely forward and upward, extending out in front without resistance other than the weight of the foot support and second crank arm itself.
The connection, pivot point of the second set of crank arms with the first set of crank arms may be fixed or adjustable along the first crank arm in distance relative from the connection of the first set of crank arms with the axis in the frame. The adjustable distance may be adjusted, to accommodate different size users and based upon the user's preferences. This connection point of the first and second crank arms maintains a consistent distance from the axis between the first set of crank arms and the frame as it rotates, orbits, revolves around that axis with the frame.
The connection of the foot supports may be fixed or adjustable along the second crank arms in distance from the connection of the second crank arm with first crank arm. The adjustable distance may be adjusted to accommodate different size users and based upon the user's preferences. This connection point of the foot supports maintains a consistent distance from the pivot point of the connection between the second and first crank arm as the second crank arm swings, rotates, about the pivot point of the connection of the second crank arm with first crank arm.
The second set of crank arms may freely move, rotate one way about the pivot point of the connection between the second set and first set of crank arms and allows for a large parameter of variable motion. It facilitates a free rotational, forward, upward extension of the foot supports path of motion. This one way forward movement, motion allows the set of second crank arms to rotate, swing, forward, cantilever and extend the motion of run-cycling as it reaches, extends up, out to a point until the force on the set of second crank arms is downward. At the point when the extension of the forward swing motion peaks and the motion and forces are now downward, the swing second crank arm, pivot point connection is fixed, clutched allowing an extension of the second crank arm and allowing for variations in stride, step distance and hip, knee drive upward relative from the pivot point of the connection of the second and first crank arm as the first set of crank arms simultaneously rotates downward. Thus allowing a user the freedom of asserting a motion from the user's own power and bio-mechanical form. The amount of extension is determined by the user's input of their own exertion and physical movement with in the outer limits that the physical size, sizing of the crank arms as adjusted allow.
The amount of swing of the second crank arm is determined by the user's own exertion, power, running, cycling motion technique and exertion of the knee driving, hip flexion, thigh leg lifting and speed of movement by the user to extend, elongate their stride while they are exercising. The entire rotation of the swing second crank arm may be described as swing phases, such as a beginning swing phase, mid forward & driving swing phase, peak swing driving upward phase, Hip peak upward stage, late swing phase Knee and hip extension, bottom phase downward and repeat into beginning swing phase. The second crank arm may swing forward until it is at the point of declining. At the point of declining the second swing crank arm is stopped, clutches, brakes, locks, from swinging backwards thus securing a fixed extended crank arm position, increasing and enhancing the user's stride length and allowing the user the freedom and individuality of a preferred stride and variable path of travel motion.
For example a full swing extension of the second crank arms may occur as and when the left side of the pivot point connection of the left side second with first crank arm rotates moves upward through a 12:00 position and downward through a 10:30 example and may occur as and when the right side of the pivot point connection of the right side second with first crank arm rotates moves upward through a 12:00 position and downward through a 1:30 example.
The pattern of the motion of the feet of the user is free to be determined by the user while they are exercising on the device. They can simulate a fast running motion or a slower running motion. They can simulate a high knee driving motion or a low knee lifting motion. They can move their feet inward or outward, closer of further apart. They can simulate larger or shorter step, stride motion.
The user may take large, long strides, steps or small, short strides, steps, adjust the width between their feet while exercising all at the speed and exertion that the user asserts into the exercise motion according to their personal biomechanical preferences.
FIG. 1A1-1A7 are side views of positions of link members during movement.
A user would engage their feet with foot supports 35. The foot supports may be connected 33 with crank arm 29 and can be adjustable in distance from connection 17 at many positions along crank arm 29, e.g. fixable at different positions with crank arm 29. These FIGS. Show attainable travel path of motion where the feet may travel when supported on the foot supports 35 connected at 33 with crank arm 29. The actual foot supports 35 are not in these FIGS., but reference sign 33 indicates where the foot support is connected with crank arm 29 is and that shows the path of which the feet of a user supported on the foot supports may travel while run cycling based upon biomechanics and output of effort and force generated by the user.
FIG. 1A1-1A7 show 24 drawings as still frames, snap shots in sequence with detailed descriptions of placement of the first 13 and second 29 link member configuration in relation to each other during movement. If one scrolls down rapidly while viewing these diagram figures it can help display and see a moving pattern of the inter connected link members movements.
Reference is now made to single elements 13, 17, 29, but it is clear that both left and right side elements can be meant. The link member 13 may be referred to as first link member, while the link member 19 may be referred to as second link member. The first link member 13 may be configured to rotate about said axis 11, preferably 360° during one exercise cycle. The second link member 29 may be configured to rotate one way about said connection 17 up to 360°. However, depending on the user's preferences and exercise routine, while the first link member 13 rotates a full round of 360° during one full rotation with respect to the axis 11, e.g. cycle or period, the second link member may rotate more or less than 180°, more or less than 165°, more or less than 150°, more or less than 135°, more or less than 120° or more or less than 100° with respect to the axis connection point 17 during said full rotation of the first link member 13, wherein the degree of rotation can be determined from an arbitrary starting point of the second link member 29 defining 0°. The rotation movement of the second link member can also be described as pivot movement with respect to the connection point 17. The axis 11 may be or include an axle, sometimes called axis axle 11. The connection 17 may be referred to as connection member 17. The connection member 17/connection point 17 is located at the first link member 13 distal from the axis 11, e.g. at a first end portion of the first link member 13 opposite to a second end portion of the first link member 13, wherein the second end portion of the first link member is connected to the axis 11. The connection member 17 can be disposed and/or attached at a first end portion of the second link member 19 opposite to a second end portion of the second link member 19, which may be connected to foot support axles 37.
The one way rotational device of this application may be configured to allow rotation or pivot movement of the second link member 29 only in one direction, i.e. opposite rotation direction of the first link member 13 with respect to the axis 11.
In addition the foot support axles 37L and 37R may be connected at connections 33L and 33R with 29L and 29R distal, i.e. at a radial, longitudinal distance, from connection 17L and 17R. Said distance may be the same for both foot support axles 37L, 37R. Incorporated and attached with foot support axles 37L and 37R are foot supports 35L and 35R that may rotate and move inward or outward adjusting the width in between the user's feet as the linkage crank arm system rotates about axle axis 11. Rotation of the foot support 35 about foot support axle 37 may be performed independently of the rotation or pivot movement of the second link member 29 about the axis of defined by connection member 17 and/or independently of the rotation of the first link member 13 about axis 11. This may be done by the user's own natural biomechanical movements while run cycling. The adjustable foot supports 35 may also be manually adjusted laterally to the desired width in between the user's feet along the foot support axis 37 by the user prior to exercising. The foot supports may be fixed and not move laterally regardless of the schematics. The ability to move the foot support laterally while exercising is not a mandatory aspect of the invention, but an additional benefit.
The embodiment in
In addition the foot support axles 37L and 37R connected 33L and 33R with 29L and 29R distal from connection 17L and 17R. Incorporated and attached with foot support axles 37L and 37R are foot supports 35L and 35R that may rotate and may move laterally as indicated in
As is apparent from the foregoing specification (whether or not some items have been given more or less attention), the invention is susceptible of being embodied with various alterations and modifications which may differ particularly from those that have been described in the preceding specification, and description. It should be understood that I wish to embody within the scope of the patent warranted hereon all such modifications as reasonably and properly come within the scope of my contribution to the art.
Further embodiments of the present invention are provided in the following. It should be noted that the numbering of the embodiments used in the following section does not necessarily need to comply with the numbering used in the previous section.
The above described embodiments may be combined with each other and/or with the appended set of claims without leaving the scope of the present application.
This application claims benefit of and priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/454,128 filed on Mar. 23, 2023 entitled “Run Cycle Exercise Device” in which the content and application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 63454128 | Mar 2023 | US |
