Patent Grant
7563203
1. The Field of the Invention
The present invention relates to treadmills. More specifically, the present invention relates to treadmills with adjustable cushioning members.
2. The Relevant Technology
Treadmills have become increasingly popular in recent years as exercise equipment that is used for either running or walking. Treadmills typically include an exercise platform having an elongate frame with a roller assembly mounted across opposite lateral ends of the frame. A belt is mounted for travel about the roller assembly and is controlled by a motor. The belt is flexible and unable to rigidly support the weight of the user. A user is supported by a deck disposed between the upper portion of the belt and the frame. As the user walks or runs on the belt, the belt is pressed against the underlying deck to provide mechanical support.
Some treadmills include decks that are directly affixed to the frame to provide a rigid support. As a result, the shock delivered to the deck from the user's step is reflected back to the foot, ankle and/or leg of the user in a similar manner as the reactive forces are imposed on a walker, a jogger or a runner exercising on a hard-paved surface or a sidewalk. Over long periods of time, the shock experienced by the user may provide detrimental effects to the joints of the user. Even in the short term, exercising on a rigid surface may prove to be tiring and jarring to a user. Attempts have been made to provide a way to cushion the impact reflected back to a user while still providing a rigid surface to support the belt and the user.
One method of attempting to cushion the impact reflected to a user is to provide an intricate shock absorbing system, which is attached to both the frame and the deck. However, the intricate shock absorbing system has proven to be difficult to manufacture and cost prohibitive. Another method includes attaching rubber blocks or cushioning strips along the length of the frame prior to mounting the deck to the frame. However, the rubber blocks or cushioning strips have proven to perform differently from one user to another due to the individual weight of the users. As a result, at times the cushioning has proven to be insufficient while at other times the cushioning has proven to be excessive, depending on the user. Another method includes the use of elastomeric springs that are positioned between the frame and the deck to provide an amount of resistance that is proportional to the extent that the deck deflected by a user while exercising.
Each user exercising on a treadmill does not cause the same amount of deflection. Furthermore, the amount of cushioning needed also depends upon the exercise that the user performs on the treadmill. For instance, running on the treadmill tends to require more cushioning than walking on the same treadmill. In addition, the amount of cushioning desired varies from user to user according to personal taste. As such, it would therefore be an advancement in the art to provide a treadmill that offers differing amounts of cushioning.
Another problem within the art relates to treadmills that fail to provide adequate cushioning. A treadmill that does not adequately cushion the exercising user may, in some cases, result in user injury due to the forces applied to the user places his or her foot upon the deck of the treadmill. As such, it would therefore be an advancement in the art to provide a treadmill that offers increased amounts of cushioning.
To achieve the foregoing objects, and in accordance with the invention as embodied and broadly described herein a treadmill with an adjustable impact absorbing mechanism is provided. The impact absorbing mechanism is configured to adjustably cushion the impact of a user exercising on the treadmill. The adjustable impact absorbing mechanism allows the user to select an amount of cushioning provided by selectively adjusting the impact absorbing mechanism.
The treadmill includes a frame and an endless belt trained on the frame, where the belt has an upwardly exposed exercise section. A deck is disposed between the exercise section of the belt and the frame. A plurality of cushioning members are positioned on opposing sides of the frame such that each of the cushioning members includes a plurality of portions with different cushioning properties. The cushioning members are optionally configured to be adjustable so as to selectively position a portion of the cushioning members between the frame and the deck and are, in one configuration, mechanically interconnected such that movement of one of the cushioning members results in corresponding movement of the other cushioning members.
One embodiment includes an adjustable, flexible cantilever that includes a flexible arm and a bumper. The arm includes one end that is mounted to the frame and the other end that is freely disposed from the frame. The bumper extends between the free end and the deck. The cantilever also includes a brace mounted to the frame adjacent to the cantilever, where the brace may be selectively moved along the length of the cantilever.
Another embodiment includes an impact absorbing mechanism having a plurality of cushioning members that each rotate in a horizontal plane. Each cushioning member has a plurality of portions, each portion having different cushioning properties. Horizontal rotation of each cushioning member adjusts the amount of cushioning between the deck and frame. The cushioning members may have indicia thereon, e.g., numbers, which may be viewed by a user to determine the amount of cushioning selected.
In another embodiment, the impact absorbing mechanism includes: (i) a spring; and (ii) a screw configured to extend therethrough. The screw is positioned in a hole thatextends through the frame and/or treadmill deck. The pitch of the screw threads and the spring coil frequency correspond such that the screw threads within the inner diameter of the spring. As such, the rotation of the screw selectively extends or contracts the effective length of the spring, depending on the direction of rotation. Thus, adjustment of the screw correspondingly adjusts the degree of cushioning.
In still another configuration, the impact absorbing mechanism includes a first cushioning member that may be at least partially disposed between the deck and the frame of the exercise device. In one embodiment, the first cushioning member extends from the deck toward the frame with one end of the first cushioning member disposed lower than a plane of an upper portion of the frame. Optionally surrounding the first cushioning member is a second cushioning member, with the first cushioning member and the second cushioning member collectively controlling the deflection of the deck as a user exercises thereupon. The first cushioning member and/or second cushioning member may be replaced or removed by releasing one or more fasteners to enable a user to vary the cushioning properties or degree of deflection associated with the deck. Either or both of the first cushioning member and second cushioning member may be replaced with other cushioning members that provide different biases or resistances to deflection of the exercise device's deck. In this manner, a user may individualize the deck deflection of the exercise device by manipulating the impact absorbing mechanism.
Further, allowing the absorbing mechanism to be disposed lower than the upper portion of the frame enables use of a variety of differently sized cushioning members that provide differing cushioning characteristics, such as extra large cushioning members that provide maximum cushioning without raising the overall height of the treadmill. This system efficiently enables increased cushioning, without increasing treadmill height, thereby making the treadmill more convenient to use and store.
Additionally, the absorbing mechanism decelerates the user as he or she impacts the deck. The time and distance taken to decelerate the user reduces the impact force applied to the user. Stated another way, the absorbing mechanism provides a time delay between a user placing his or her foot upon the deck of the treadmill and termination of the deck moving in the direction of the frame of the treadmill. This time delay may be achieved by increasing the distance traveled by the treadmill deck toward the treadmill frame as the user exercises upon the deck and/or varying the cushioning characteristics of the absorbing mechanism. This time delay reduces the application of a substantially immediate impact force upon the legs of the user as he or she exercises upon the exercise device. The graduated application of the impact force reduces the intensity of the force and reduces the potential for user injury.
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.
To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of the present invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof that are illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings in which:
a is a top view of a cushioning member frame with cushioning pads shown in a cutaway view mounted therein.
b is a bottom view of the cushioning member frame of
The present invention relates to treadmills with an impact absorbing mechanism that is configured to selectively adjust the cushioning of a user's impact. Depicted in
As illustrated in
Handrail 16 may include an optional control console 17 that is attached to the upper end of handrail 16 and extends laterally over exercise base 12. Console 17 may have an operating control such as an actuator switch to operate treadmill 10 and a means for indicating a status of the exercise device and/or the user operating the exercise device that may be operated by the user to determine various parameters associated with the exercise being performed. Console 17 may also include a cup or glass holder so that the user may position liquid refreshment for use during the course of performing the exercise. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various embodiments of consoles may be used. In fact, console 17 may only include on/off switch and therefore may be completely replaced by a lateral support member.
Exercise base 12 includes a front end 20 and a back end 22. As illustrated in
Referring to
Exercise base 12 includes a front roller 34 and a back roller 36 that are attached laterally near front end 20 and back end 22 of frame 24, respectively. An endless belt 32 is trained over front roller 34 and back roller 36 and is positioned between right frame member 28 and left frame member (not shown) so that belt 32 includes an upwardly exposed exercise section 38 upon which a user exercises.
As depicted in
In one embodiment, front end 20 and/or back end 22 of deck 40 are not secured to the frame. Instead, end 20 and/or 22 move freely from frame 24 to permit a greater adjustment of cushioning. For example, in one embodiment, back end 22 of deck 40 is secured to frame 24 (through the use of screws, or similar connectors), but the front end 20 of deck 40 is not secured to frame 24. As such, front end 20 deflects freely from frame 24 to permit a greater adjustment of cushioning applied to front end 20 of deck 40.
However, in another embodiment, both front end 20 and back end 22 of deck 40 are secured to frame 24 and an adjustable cushioning is applied to the central portion of deck 40 between opposing ends 20 and 22. Optionally, the adjustable cushioning may be applied in front and/or behind the points of securement of deck 40 to frame 24.
One embodiment of right frame member 28 and left frame member (not shown) includes a side rail 42 and a side platform 44. As illustrated in
The position of side platforms 44 are such that a user of treadmill 10 may comfortably and easily step off of belt 32 onto one or both of side platforms 44. A user may also stand on side platform 44 on either side of exercise base 12 until he or she is ready to step onto belt 32. It may be appreciated that other embodiments of frame 24 that include right frame member 28 and left frame member (not shown) or the components thereof may carry out the intended function thereof.
The present invention includes an impact absorbing mechanism 48 that is configured for manual adjustment to provide selectable amounts of impact cushioning when a user is operating on exercise section 38 of belt 32. Impact absorbing mechanism, which is an example of an impact absorbing means for providing selectable amounts of impact cushioning, allows the amount of cushioning provided by treadmill 10 to be manually adjusted to individualize treadmill 10 for different uses and/or users.
One embodiment of impact absorbing mechanism 48 is depicted in
Cushioning members 50 include flexible bases 58 that include apertures 52 of varying sizes. As the size of aperture 52 increases, the stiffness of that portion of base 58 cushioning members 50 decreases. As a result, the size of aperture 52 in base 58 of cushioning members 50 is related to the flexibility provided by that portion of cushioning members 50. The portions of cushioning member 50 include different cushioning properties due to the varying size of the apertures to allow a user of treadmill 10 who may desire less cushioning, for example, to manually adjustably position cushioning members 50 so that the portion of cushioning members 50 with the smallest aperture 52 and, therefore, the least flexibility is proximate to deck 40. In this position, cushioning members 50 have an increased stiffness that results in less cushioning. In contrast, when more cushioning is desired, cushioning members 50 are rotated to adjust cushioning members 50 so that a portion of bases 58 with progressively increasing sized apertures is against deck 40 to increase the flexibility and cushioning of cushioning members 50.
As shown in
As illustrated in
One example of a structure capable of performing the function of such a means for selectively adjusting cushioning members 50 includes a handle 56. As depicted in
Impact absorbing mechanism 48 may optionally include means for mechanically interconnecting cushioning members 50 such that movement of one of cushioning members 50 results in corresponding movement of the other second cushioning members 50 and/or other cushioning members forming part of the exercise device. One embodiment of structure capable of performing the function of such a means for mechanically interconnecting a plurality of cushioning members 50 includes an elongated axle 54, as depicted in
As illustrated, axle 54 is substantially round. Axle 54 could, however, have other embodiments such as a square, an oval, a rectangle, a polygon, or another shape. Various other configurations or embodiments of means for mechanically interconnecting first and second cushioning members 50 and optionally one or more other cushioning members, are capable of performing the function thereof. In another configuration, means for mechanically interconnecting cushioning members 50 may include a linkage or a cable as will be discussed in further detail below.
In those embodiments of impact absorbing mechanism 48 that do not include a means for mechanically interconnecting cushioning members 50, all of cushioning members 50 have means of adjusting cushioning member 50 so as to selectively position or select one of the plurality of portions 58 of cushioning member 50 between frame 24 and deck 40. For example, as depicted in
A variety of different adjustable cushioning members may be provided along the length of the base 12 in order to provide a substantially horizontal deck 40. It is also possible to employ both adjustable and non-adjustable cushioning members between frame 24 and deck 40 in order to provide a substantially horizontal deck 40.
The remaining figures illustrate other embodiments of impact absorbing mechanisms and cushioning members. The majority of features previously discussed relative to
Cushioning members 68 include a plurality of portions having different cushioning properties. Cushioning members 68 each include a base 72 having a plurality of arms 70 projecting therefrom. In the embodiment depicted in
Arms 70 of cushioning members 68 are made of various materials with each having a different stiffness characteristic such that each of arms 70 experiences a differing amount of deflection when contacting deck 40 in response to a force from the impact of a user on exercise section 38 of belt 32. In one embodiment of cushioning members 68, arms 70 may be substantially comprised of materials selected from the group consisting of plastic, hard rubber, soft rubber, and cellular foam. Various other kinds of materials that have differing stiffness characteristics may alternatively be used. In addition, although depicted in
Although cushioning members 68 and 92 illustrated in
Impact absorbing mechanism 80 includes an optional raised portion 86 on deck 40 that extends away from deck 40 toward frame 24. Raised portion 86 is configured to cooperate with arms 84 on cushioning members 82. Alternatively, raised portion 86 of deck 40 may be eliminated and arms 84 of cushioning members 82 may extend to directly contact deck 40 as in the embodiment illustrated in
Impact absorbing mechanism 80 with cushioning members 82, as depicted in
Impact absorbing mechanism 80 also includes an elongated lever 90, as shown in phantom in
Base 254 of cushioning members 252 has differently sized openings 256 formed therein, forming a plurality of portions 258 in cushioning members 252 having differing cushioning properties. Openings 256 are differently sized and as a result, different portions 258 of base 254 have differing stiffness. As shown, one of the portions 258 of cushioning members 252 does not have an opening 256 formed therein. This further changes the stiffness of that portion 258. What is important is that each portion has discrete and differing amount of flexibility and deflection in response to a user exercising on belt 32 as a result of the differing stiffness. Cushioning members 252, consequently, will provide a differing amount of cushioning depending on which portion contacts deck 40.
Impact absorbing mechanism 250 also includes a hub 260 coupling base 254 to axle 54. Hub 260 includes fingers 262 (shown in phantom lines) extending radially from a hub sleeve 264 disposed about axle 54 and coupled to axle 54 through the use of a screw (not shown) disposed through sleeve 264 and axle 54. In one embodiment, base 254 includes a flexible polyvinylchloride material that is molded onto a nylon or glass-filled nylon hub 260. By way of example, the polyvinylchloride material may have a durometer of about 65, shore A.
In one embodiment, impact absorbing mechanism 250 is positioned toward front end 20 of base 12, e.g., within the front one-third of base 12. This positioning is particularly useful when front end 20 of deck 40 is not secured to frame 24, e.g., when back end 22 of deck is secured to frame 24 (through the use of screws, for example), while front end 20 moves freely from frame 24. Allowing front end 20 to freely deflect from frame 24 enhances the ability to adjust the amount of cushioning applied to deck 40. In one such embodiment, front end 20 of deck 40 also rests on at least one additional cushioned member, such as an isolator coupled to each side of frame 24, such as discussed below with reference to
Base 274 of cushioning member 272 includes a flexible portion 277 attached through adhesion or molding to a substantially more rigid portion 276, forming a plurality of portions in cushioning members 272 having differing cushioning properties. As a result, different portions of base 274 have differing stiffness. Cushioning members 272, consequently, will provide a differing amount of cushioning depending on which portion contacts a wheel 288 pivotally coupled to deck 40, as discussed below.
Impact absorbing mechanism 270 also includes a hub 280 coupling base 274 to axle 54. Hub 280 includes a hub sleeve 282 coupled to base 274. In one embodiment, hub sleeve 282 is integrally coupled to member 276 and to a plate 271, such that flexible portion 277 is cradled within plate 271, hub 280 and member 276.
Hub sleeve 282 is disposed about axle 54 and coupled to axle 54 using a screw (not shown) disposed through sleeve 282 and axle 54, for example. In one embodiment, flexible portion 277 includes a flexible polyvinylchloride material that is molded onto a significantly more rigid nylon or glass-filled nylon member 276 and plate 271. Hub 280 may also include nylon or glass-filled nylon. By way of example, and not limitation, the polyvinylchloride material may have a durometer of about 55, shore A.
Impact absorbing mechanism 270 further includes wheel 288 rotatably coupled to deck 40. In one embodiment, a bracket 290 couples wheel 288 to deck 40. Wheel 288 is configured to mate with a selected recess 275 on cushioning member 272. Wheel 288 turns as cushioning member 272 turns. This assists in preserving the material of cushioning member 272 from damage as member 272 is turned. Stops 292 coupled to bracket 290 prevent the over-rotation of cushioning member 272.
As yet another feature of impact absorbing mechanism 270, as shown in
In one embodiment, impact absorbing mechanism 250 is positioned toward front end 20 of base 12, e.g., within the front one-third of base 12. One or both of front and back ends 20, 22 of deck 40 may be secured to frame 24.
As shown in
Right frame member 26 and left frame member (not shown) of frame 24 have raised portions 104 formed thereon. Raised portions 104 extend upwardly towards deck 40 and contact cushioning members 102. Cushioning members 102 illustrated in
As depicted in
Impact absorbing mechanism 100 also includes a linkage or a cable 106, shown in
Although bases 112 of cushioning members 102 are depicted as having variously sized openings 52, other embodiments of cushioning members 102 perform the desired function thereof. For example, instead of openings 52 formed in bases 112 of cushioning members 102, raised pads comprising materials with different cushioning properties may be mounted on cushioning members 102. Cushioning members 102 may be selectively adjusted such that the raised pads mounted on cushioning members 102 are selectively positioned on raised portion 104. In addition, instead of cushioning members 102 being pivotally mounted below deck 40, cushioning members 102 may be movably attached to frame 24 by vertical axles.
Another embodiment of an impact absorbing mechanism 120 is depicted in
Impact absorbing mechanisms 120 also include an elongated beam 126 movably mounted below deck 40. Beam 126 extends across frame 24 and is substantially parallel to deck 40. A portion of beam 126 is disposed between deck 40 and cushioning members 122 to contact the various raised pads 124. Beam 126 is pivotally connected to deck 40. Raised pads 124 are arranged on cushioning members 122, or 122a and 122b, so that beam 126 is pivoted to contact one type of raised pad 124 on cushioning members 122 and an opposite end of beam 126 contacts the same material on the opposite of cushioning members 122, as illustrated in
Beam 126 is another embodiment of structure capable of performing the function of such means for mechanically interconnecting the plurality of cushioning members 122. Beam 126 has an elongated handle 128 attached to one end thereof for the user to grasp to selectively, manually adjust the amount of cushioning provided by cushioning members 122. A user of treadmill 10 may move beam 126 by moving handle 128 until beam 126 contacts the selected raised pads 124 to obtain differing amounts of cushioning of the impact.
The cushioning members described herein are exemplary embodiments of structures capable of performing the function of means for selectively adjusting the cushioning impact between deck 40 and frame 24.
Impact absorbing mechanism 140 includes an elongated brace 150 that is configured to manually adjust the flexibility of cantilevers 142. Brace 150 is mounted to frame 24 adjacent to cantilevers 142. Brace 150 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of frame 24 and is configured to cooperate with frame 24 and to move parallel to the longitudinal axis of frame 24. As depicted in
Various other configurations of brace 150 and slots 152 may perform the function thereof as long as brace 150 and slots 152 are configured to cooperate. Brace 150 and slots 152 in frame 24 are one example of structure capable of performing the function of a means for selectively adjusting the flexibility of cantilever 142.
Cantilever 162 also includes a bumper 168 mounted on the free end of arm 166. Bumper 168 extends away from the free end of arm 166 toward deck 40 in a direction that is substantially perpendicular to deck 40. As another example of a cantilever, another elongated arm and a bumper attached thereto (not shown) extends from an a opposing end of support 164 in parallel relationship to cantilever 162 shown in
Impact absorbing mechanism 160 further includes an elongated brace 170 that is configured to manually adjust the flexibility of cantilevers 162. Brace 170 is mounted to frame 24 adjacent to cantilevers 162. Brace 170 extends substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of frame 24 and is configured to cooperate with frame 24 and to move parallel to the longitudinal axis of frame 24.
As depicted in
Also as shown in
Various other configurations of brace 170 and slots 172 may perform the desired function as long as brace 170 and slots 172 are configured to cooperate. Brace 170 and slots 172 in frame 24 are one example of structure capable of performing the function of a means for selectively adjusting the flexibility of one or more cantilevers.
As mentioned above, in one embodiment, front end 20 of deck 40 is not secured to frame 24. Instead, back end 22 of deck 40 is secured to frame 24 (through the use of screws, for example), while front end 20 moves freely from frame 24, enhancing the ability to adjust the amount of cushioning applied to front end 20 of deck 40.
In one such embodiment, at least one and preferably both sides of front end 20 of deck 40 also rest on a cushioned isolator 180, shown in
Another example of an impact absorbing mechanism 200 that includes a plurality of flexible cantilevers 202, 204 is shown in
Impact absorbing mechanism 200 further includes an elongated brace 210 that is configured to manually adjust the flexibility of cantilevers 202, 204. Brace 210 is mounted to frame 24 by being pivotally coupled to support 205. Brace 210 has opposing ends that are disposed beneath respective arms 206, 208. Frame 24 has elongated slots 212, 214 formed therein on opposing sides to accommodate pivotal movement of the ends of brace 210. Brace 210 moves along the length of opposing cantilevers 202, 204 to change the amount of cushioning provided by cantilevers 202, 204 by increasing or decreasing the amount of deflection of arms 202, 204. One advantage of mechanism 200 is that the amount of cushioning provided is adjustable by pivoting brace 210 in a desired direction.
Brace 210 and slots 212, 214 in frame 24 are one example of structure capable of performing the function of means for selectively adjusting the flexibility of one or more cantilevers.
It may be appreciated by those skilled in the art that although the various embodiments illustrated in the figures usually have two (2) cushioning members or two (2) cantilevers, any other number of one or more cushioning members or cantilevers may be used in treadmill 10.
Although not shown in the figures, it is contemplated that treadmill 10 (
Treadmill 310 includes an exercise base 304 including: (i) a frame 324, which may be the same or similar to the frame 24 of
Impact absorbing mechanism 300, which is another example of an impact absorbing means, includes first and second cushioning members 302 (
Member 302 has a plurality of portions, each of which have different cushioning properties, as will be discussed in detail below. To adjust the degree of cushioning, the user causes at least one and preferably both cushioning members 302 to rotate horizontally such that the desired cushioning portion is positioned between the treadmill deck 340 and frame 324.
As shown in
In order to selectively lock a desired arm 302a-302c into a desired position, a spring loaded ball detent 318 (
Differing degrees of cushioning may be achieved in cushioning members 302 by (i) providing cushioning portions of differing materials; (ii) providing cushioning portions having differing levels of flexibility; (iii) providing cushioning portions having different sizes and/or (iv) providing cushioning portions that are hollower than others, for example. Thus, a variety of different methods of manufacture may be employed to form each member 302.
In the embodiment of
In the embodiment of
Frame 314 is configured to receive different pads therein, the pads being shown in a bottom view in
In the embodiment of
Since arm 302c includes a substantial amount of rigid or semi-rigid frame material 317c and a reduced amount of flexible pad material 316c, arm 302c is more rigid than arms 302a and 302b. The pad material 316a of arm 302a has a large groove therein, whereas the pad material 316b of arm 302b is solid. Thus, arm 302a is more flexible than arm 302b.
In summary, arm 302c includes less pad material 316c and more frame material 317c than arm 302b, and is consequently more rigid than arm 302b. Arm 302a has a pad 316a having a substantial groove therein, and is consequently more flexible than arm 302b. Thus, arm 302c is more rigid than arm 302b, which is more rigid than arm 302a. In light of the different properties of the respective arms, a user desiring different cushioning properties for treadmill 310 may select a desired level of cushioning.
Nevertheless, although arms 302a-302c of cushioning members 302 are depicted as having raised pad portions formed thereon that have different internal configurations, other embodiments of cushioning members perform the function thereof, such as by employing pad portions having different sizes or different densities. In addition, instead of cushioning members 302 being pivotally mounted below deck 340, cushioning members 302 may be movably attached to frame 324 by vertical axles.
Indicia, such as the numbers 1, 2, and 3 (or other indicia, such as lettering, color coding, providing other symbols, etc.) may be provided on the frame and/or pads of member 302 to allow a user to visually determine which amount of cushioning has been selected. For example, in the embodiment of
Thus, as shown in the embodiment of
Gripping grooves 322 on members 302, as depicted in
Impact absorbing mechanism 300 may further include a linkage or a cable (not shown), (e.g., similar to element 106 shown in
As shown in
Deck 340 may be mounted on frame 324 in a variety of different manners, such as those discussed above with regard to deck 40 and frame 24. In one embodiment, the rear portion of the deck is immovably affixed to rear portions of opposing frame members 325, 326 while the front portion of the deck 340 is coupled to the front portions of opposing frame members 325, 326 through the use of elastomeric isolators coupled between the deck and the frame that allow some deflection between the deck 340 and the frame 324 during use. In another configuration, both the rear portion and the front portion of the deck are coupled to opposing frame members 325, 326 through use of elastomeric isolates. In still another configuration, the front portion of deck 340 is affixed to the front portion of opposing frame members 325, and 326.
Thus, an example of another cushioning mechanism of the present invention includes first and second cushioning members, configured such as member 350, on opposing sides of a treadmill between the deck and the frame thereof. However, optionally member 350 may be employed on a single side to form a cushioning mechanism.
As illustrated in
Thus, in order to view the indicia indicating the level of cushioning employed, the cushioning portions with the indicia thereon may extend out from the area directly between deck and the frame such that the indicia is visible to the user, or an aperture through the deck may be employed. Each of these approaches is an example of a means for enabling a user to view the level of cushioning employed.
As screw 404 extends into spring 402, the amount of cushioning is adjusted. The extension into or extraction from spring 402, respectively, decreases or increases the ability of spring 402 to cushion. In other words, the movement of screw 404 with respect to spring 402 selectively increases or decreases the effective length of spring 402.
Thus, as screw 404 is threaded out of spring 402, the effective length of spring 402 is increased and the degree of flexibility increases; and as screw 404 is threaded into spring 402, the effective length of spring 402 is decreased and the degree of flexibility decreases.
In the embodiment of
Spring 402 may be coupled between deck 406 and frame 408 in a variety of different manners. For example, in one embodiment, the ends of the deck and the frame are coupled together in such a manner as to maintain spring 402 therebetween. In another embodiment, one or both ends of the spring are embedded into a corresponding deck or frame portion. For example, one end (e.g., the top end) of the spring may be embedded in the deck or frame while the opposing portion of the spring is not embedded but rests against the opposing frame or deck portion. In another embodiment, a screw extends from the deck or frame (or both) and connects with the corresponding end (e.g., the top end) of the spring. In yet another embodiment, the opposing ends of the spring are captured within cups (i.e., surrounded by the rims of the cups) mounted on respective portions of the deck and frame. One or both cups may have an aperture therethrough in order to allow the screw to extend therethrough.
In another embodiment, frame 408 is internally threaded so as to threadably receive screw 404 therein. In this embodiment, screw 404 is threadably received within frame 408 and spring 402. By way of example, screw 404 may include an elastomeric, plastic, synthetic, or similar material, although a variety of different materials may be employed.
Exercise base 512 additionally includes a frame 524 that has a left frame member 528 and a right frame member (not shown), however, only the left side of exercise device 510 is visible. As with treadmill 10 of
Cooperating with frame 524 and a deck 540 is an absorbing assembly 548. The absorbing assembly 548 may be linked or coupled, either directly or indirectly, to frame 524 and deck 540 and provides cushioning to a user exercising upon deck 540. Portions of absorbing assembly 548 are removable and/or replaceable to allow a user to vary the cushioning effect provided to the exercising user. The absorbing assembly 548 allows deck 540 to move towards frame 524, and more generally toward a surface upon which exercise device 510 rests, a sufficient distance to cushion the motion of the exercising user. By so doing, the absorbing assembly 548 limits the potential for user injury through absorbing assembly 548 reducing the force applied by deck 540 to the user as he or she runs, jogs, walks, or generally exercises using exercise device 510. More specifically, deck 540 is movable as the user places his or he foot thereupon. The delay between placing of the foot upon deck 540 and deck 540 stopping its motion towards frame 524 provides cushioning to the exercising user that limits the potential for user injury. The amount of distance traveled and the time taken to travel such a distance reduces the application of a substantially immediate impact force upon the legs of the user as he or she exercises upon the exercise device. The graduated application of the impact force reduces the intensity of the force and reduces the potential for user injury. The degree of displacement or movement of deck 540 may be controlled by the configuration of absorbing assembly 548 and optionally the flexibility of deck 540.
As illustrated in
Impact absorbing assembly 548 of exercise device 510 is disposed beneath a side of deck 540 and is configured to cushion impact forces applied by a user of exercise device 510 upon deck 540. The cushioning provided by impact absorbing assembly 548 may be adjusted to provide selectable amounts of impact cushioning when a user is operating on deck 540 and/or belt 532. This adjustability enables a user to individualize exercise device 510 for different uses and/or users. Impact absorbing assembly 548 is one structure capable of performing the function of means for cushioning impact upon deck 540. Other configurations of impact absorbing assembly 548 and hence means for cushioning may have an impact absorbing assembly located to the side of deck 540 or at least partially disposed to a side of and beneath deck 540.
The impact absorbing assembly 548 associated with exercise device 510 may include individual absorbing mechanisms 550a and 550b, which are disposed on opposite sides of frame 524 by way of platform 556 and may extend from deck 540 toward frame 524. Although mention is made to impact absorbing assembly 548 being located at a side of frame 524, while being disposed beneath deck 540, other configurations of the present invention may include absorbing mechanisms that are at least partially disposed between frame 524 and deck 540 and/or extend from deck 540 to a position lower than a portion of frame 524. Similarly, although absorbing mechanisms 550a and 550b are depicted as being attached to an outside surface of frame 524, it is contemplated, that absorbing mechanisms 550a and 550b may optionally be attached to the inside surface of frame 524 and perform the desired functions thereof. Furthermore, in other embodiments, absorbing assembly 548 includes one or more absorbing mechanisms and one or more platforms.
With reference now to
Platform 556 may be attached to frame 524 through use of one or more fasteners 558, such as screws, bolts, or other structures that are capable of attaching platform 556 to frame 524. In this configuration, platform 556 may be rigidly attached or linked to frame 524. Alternatively, platform 556 may be attached or linked in a flexible manner to frame 524. The platform 556 is configured to attach to a lower portion 557 of frame 524, extend from frame 524, and cooperate with absorbing mechanism 550b. The platform 556 may alternatively be attached to frame 524 in any manner so long as the platform 556 enables absorbing mechanism 550b to at least partially be disposed lower than upper portion 559 of frame 524. For instance, and not by way of limitation, a platform may attach to upper portion 559 or any position between upper portion 559 and lower portion 557 of frame 524 while extending from frame 524 in a manner that positions one end of the absorbing mechanism lower than upper portion 559 of frame 524.
The first cushioning member 552 of absorbing mechanism 550b cooperates with platform 556 by way of second cup 562 and a fastener 577, such as a screw, bolt, or other structure capable of connecting cushioning member 552 to platform 556. First cushioning member 552 has a generally cylindrical or barrel shape with a hollow interior 551. A first end 553 of first cushioning member 552 cooperates with first cup 560, while a second end 555 cooperates with second cup 560. The hollow interior 551 allows the sides of first cushioning member 552 to move outwardly from a central axis of first cushioning member 552 as first end 553 moves toward second end 555. As the sides of first cushioning member 552 move, caps 560 and 562 retain first cushioning member 552 and second cushioning member 554 prevents overextension of the sides of cushioning member 552.
In this illustrated configuration, a portion of absorbing mechanism 550b and hence first cushioning member 552 and/or second cushioning member 554 may be positioned lower than an upper portion 559 of frame 524 so that the length of absorbing mechanism 550b may be longer than the distance between the lower surface of deck 540 and upper portion 559 of frame 540. Positioning absorbing mechanism 550b to the side of frame 524 with a portion of absorbing mechanism 550b lower than upper portion 559 of frame 524 allows deck 540 to be moved toward upper portion 559 and the surface upon which exercise device 510 rest to a greater degree than would be possible if absorbing mechanism 550b were disposed between upper portion 559 and deck 540.
As shown in
In another configuration, the change in distances D1 and D2 may be different. For instance, in another configuration, distances D1 and D2 may be changed up to and more than about 1 inch, 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.25 inches, or 2.5 inches upon a variety of different force being applied to deck 540 as an exercising user impacts upon deck 540. In another embodiment, distances D1 and D2 may be changed up to and more than about 1.25 inches upon application of 600 lbs of force to deck 540 by an exercising user impacting upon deck 540.
According to another aspect of the present invention, by applying various forces to a deck and tracking the associated deflections, illustrative D1 and D2 values may by identified, as illustrated in
Linear approximation of the deflection data result in one or more linear equations as follows: for 0 to 0.2 inch deflections, y=535x (illustrated as line “A”), for 0.2 to 0.7 inch deflections, y=648x−23 (illustrated as line “B”); for 0.7 to 1.0 inch deflections, y=780x−115 (illustrated as line “C”), and for 1.0 inch deflection and above, y=1180x−515 (illustrated as line “D”). In another configuration, the linear equations may be as follows: 0.0 to 0.5 inches, y=350x (illustrated by line “E”) and for 0.5 inch deflection and above, y=640x−145 (illustrated as line “F”). In another configuration, the linear equations may be as follows: 0.0 to 0.5 inches, y=350x (illustrated by line “E”), for 0.5 to 1.30 inch deflection, y=640x−145 (illustrated as line “F”), and for 1.30 inch deflection and above, y=1840x−1732 (illustrated as line “G”).
As may be understood by one skilled in the art, any variation of deflection distance with respect to force applied between the above-defined curves and the X-axis may be possible. For instance, the deflection distance may be greater than the illustrated curve for a force lesser than those indicated by the lines. Stated another way, the deflection distance may have any value defined by the area or region of the graph below the lines illustrated in
Returning to
Increasing the available space within which deck 540 may move into as a user places his or her foot upon deck 540 also increases the amount of time it takes between placing of the foot upon deck 540 and deck 540 stopping its motion toward frame 524 and the surface upon which exercise device 510 rests. This increase in time delay provides additional cushioning to the exercising user that limits the potential for user injury.
The amount of time between a user placing his or her foot upon deck 540 and deck 540 stopping its motion toward frame 524 may also be controlled by the configuration of cushioning members 552 and 554 and also the particular type of material forming cushioning members 552 and 554. For instance, a cushioning member that is readably compressible may provide a first level of cushioning, while a partially compressible cushioning member provides a second level of cushioning that is lesser than the first level of cushioning. One skilled in the art will appreciate that different materials will provide different levels of cushioning, i.e., have different abilities to compress, deform, or otherwise absorbing impacts.
The configuration of cushioning member 552 and 554 also affects the rebound time from deflection of deck 540 to deck 540 returning to a position before deflection. For instance, although reference is made to first cushioning member 552 having a cylindrical or barrel shape, one skilled in the art may appreciate that first cushioning member 552 may have various other configurations. In another configuration, cushioning member has sides or walls that are uniform or non-uniform dimensions along the length of first cushioning member 552. In another configuration, hollow interior 551 is filled with a fluid, such as a liquid, gas, or combination thereof, which aids in absorbing impact forces applied by a user exercising upon the deck of the exercise device. In still another configuration, the length of first cushioning member 554 may be varied based upon the particular stiffening force desired for use with the exercise device.
Various materials may be used to form first cushioning member 552. For instance, and not by way of limitation, cushioning member may be fabricated from synthetic materials, polymers, plastics, rubber, combinations thereof, or other material that may provide a degree of flexibility or may dissipate impact forces. For instance, cushioning member may include gels, fluids, gases, or any other combination thereof.
In addition to first cushioning member 552 having various configurations, second cushioning member 554 may also have various configurations and be fabricated from various materials to aid in absorbing impact forces and returning the deck of exercise device 510 to a position before application of an impact force by a user exercising upon the deck. For instance, second cushioning member 554 may include one or more springs that have various coil configurations, number of coils, pitch of coils, diameters of wires forming the spring, materials forming the spring, or combinations thereof. The one or more springs may be fabricated from plastics, metals, composites, synthetics, combinations thereof, or other material that provides the desired rebound and absorption requirements. Other second cushioning members are known to those skilled in the art. For instance, second cushioning member 554 may have a similar configuration to first cushioning member 552, with an interior hollow portion thereof being adapted to receive at least a portion of first cushioning member 552 therein.
As shown in
The second cup 562 is also adapted to receive second cushioning member 554 and includes a channel 572 that may be similar to channel 564. A recess 574 may be disposed in cup 562 to receive second end 555 of first cushioning member 552. Disposed through cup 562 is a hole 576 that cooperates with a fastener 577, such as a screw, bolt or other structure that securely connects cup 562 to platform 556. The fastener 577 attaches to a threaded portion 578 of cushioning member 552 to securely and releasably maintain first cushioning member 552 in contact with cup 562.
Optionally disposed between second cup 562 and platform 556 is a cover 580. Cover 580 may enhance the aesthetic properties of exercise device 510, while optionally aiding with positioning of second cup 562 in the desired location. For instance, cover 580 may include a stop 582 and a lip 584 that together aid in positioning second cup 562 so that fastener 577 may pass through platform 556, cover 580, and second cup 562, to mate with threaded portion 578 of cushioning member 552. The cover 580 may only include one of stop 582 and lip 584 in other configurations. Other configurations of cover 580 may include a recess that receives cushioning member 552 or combinations of recesses, lips, and stops that aid in positioning cushioning member 552.
Exercise device 510 may utilize various springs and cushioning members with absorbing mechanism 550a. To exchange the cushioning members or remove a cushioning member, a user may release platform 556 from being attached to frame 524. Upon releasing platform 556, first cushioning member 552 and second cushioning member 554 disengage from first cup 560, while fastener 568 maintains first cup 560 attached to deck 540. Once first cushioning member 552 and second cushioning member 554 are released from first cup 560, a user may replace or remove one or both of cushioning members 552 and 554. Following the selected removal or replacement of one of cushioning members 552 and 554, the user re-engages one or both of the existing or replacement cushioning members 552 and/or spring 554 with first cup 560 and reconnects platform 556 to frame 524.
The above is only one process for exchanging or removing a cushioning from exercise device 510. Other processes are applicable when alternate configurations of absorbing mechanism 550a are used. For instance, and not by way of limitation, in the event that a cushioning member threadably engages with first cup 560 and/or second cup 562, the user may need to unscrew the cushioning member during an exchange or removal of the same. Similarly, in the event that the first cushioning member threadably engages with first cup 560 and/or second cup 562, such as with recesses 572 and/or 574, the user may need to unscrew the second cushioning member during an exchange or removal of the same.
In addition to the above described configuration of the absorbing assembly of the present invention, one or more hydraulic or fluid cylinders may be substituted or cooperate with the cushioning member. The hydraulic or fluid cylinder may extend from platform 556 to deck 540, optionally with another cushioning member, such as a spring, partially or completely surrounding a portion of the cylinder. As known to those skilled in the art, a hydraulic or fluid cylinder includes a plunger that moves through an interior chamber. The velocity or speed by which the plunger traverses the interior chamber is controlled by the viscosity of the fluid within the interior chamber and by the size and/or configuration of one or more apertures form in the plunger or a disk attached to an end of the plunger. When the apertures are large, the plunger may move more quickly through the fluid, while small apertures force the plunger to move more slowly through the fluid. Similarly, the viscosity of the fluid varies the speed at which the plunger traverses the interior chamber of the cylinder. By replacing one cylinder with another cylinder having different impact absorbing properties defined by the viscosity of the fluid and the configuration of the one or more apertures, the impact absorbing capabilities of the exercise device may be varied.
The cylinder may be received by first cup 560 and second cup 572. Alternatively, the cylinder may be fixably attached to each cup 560, 572 using one or more fasteners. In another configuration, the cylinder may be releasable attached to deck 540 and/or frame 524, either directly or by way of an intermediate structure, such as but not limited to platform 556.
To vary the capability of the cylinder and the cushioning member to dampen or cushion impact forces applied to deck 524 either or both the cylinder and the cushioning member may be substituted for other cylinders or cushioning members that have differing impact cushioning properties. Changing one cylinder and/or cushioning member for another may be achieved in a similar manner to that described above with respect to
In another configuration, fluid within a cylinder may be pressurized to different pressures to vary the dampening or cushioning properties of the cylinder. In this configuration, impact cushioning properties of the cylinder may be varied by changing the pressure of the fluid within an interior chamber of the cylinder. Additionally, impact cushioning properties of the impact absorbing mechanism may be varied by changing the cushioning member optionally associated with such a fluid cylinder.
Thus, the present invention relates to exercise devices with an impact absorbing mechanism that is configured to cushion as user's impact. The impact absorbing mechanism may be manipulated to vary the absorbing effect provided to an exercising user. In this manner, embodiments of the present invention provide the exercising user with an exercise device that limits the shock experienced by the user as he or she exercises upon the exercise device and reduces injury to the exercising user.
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 that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/953,589, entitled “Treadmill with Adjustable Cushioning Members,” filed Sep. 12, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,821,230 which is incorporated herein by this reference and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/777,141 entitled “Treadmill with Adjustable Cushioning Members,” filed Feb. 5, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,424 which is incorporated herein by this reference and which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/437,387, filed Nov. 10, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,280,362 entitled “Treadmill with Adjustable Cushioning Members,” which is incorporated herein by this reference and which is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No 09/160,947, filed Sep. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,174,267 entitled “Treadmill with Adjustable Cushioning Members,” which is incorporated herein by this reference.
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