US20080119337A1 - Exercise device with features for simultaneously working out the upper and lower body - Google Patents

Abstract

An exercise device, comprising an upper body unit including at least one load member having at least one elastic/resilient element and a pair of gripping portions for manual grasping by the user, wherein an applied force exerted onto the gripping portions transitions the element from an initial state to an elastically deformed state, and wherein a reduction in the applied force resiliently reforms the element back toward the initial state. In one embodiment, a lower body unit is also provided including a support base defining a support surface, a plurality of light sources configured to generate discrete lighted regions on the support surface, and a controller configured to activate and deactivate the discrete lighted regions. In another embodiment, the lower body unit includes at least two position sensors having sensing paths arranged along a sensing plane to detect a presence of a user, and a controller in communication with the position sensors to determine a position of the user relative to the sensing plane.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
• This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/853,375 filed Oct. 20, 2006, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
• The present invention relates generally to the field of exercise devices, and more particularly relates to an exercise device including features for simultaneously working out the upper and lower body.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
• Various types and configurations of exercise devices have been developed to provide the user with an aerobic workout. Such devices include, for example, treadmills, stepping machines, cycling devices, rowing devices, etc. However, an exercise device has not been developed which includes a base unit having a support surface in which discrete portions or regions of the support surface light up to elicit a response or activity (i.e., walking, running, jumping, etc.) to provide a workout of the lower body, and which further includes features that simultaneously provide a workout of the upper body. Additionally, an exercise device has not been developed which provides a realistic simulation of the activity of jumping rope to provide a workout of the lower body, and which further includes features that simultaneously provide a workout of the upper body. Furthermore, an exercise device has not been developed for use in association with activities involving walking, running or jumping to provide a workout of the lower body while providing feedback via a number of position sensors to verify the user's performance of such activities, and which further includes features that simultaneously provide a workout of the upper body.
• Thus, there is a general need in the industry to provide an improved exercise device including features for simultaneously working out the upper and lower body. The present invention meets this need and provides other benefits and advantages in a novel and non-obvious manner.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
• FIG. 1 is a front elevational perspective view of an exercise device according to one form of the present invention.
• FIG. 2 is a rear elevational perspective view of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of the base unit and sensor assembly of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 4, as taken along line5-5 ofFIG. 4.
• FIG. 6 is an enlarged cross sectional view of a portion of the base unit illustrated inFIG. 5.
• FIG. 7 is a cross sectional view of the base unit illustrated inFIG. 5, as taken along line7-7 ofFIG. 5.
• FIG. 8 is a cross sectional view of an alternative embodiment of the base unit illustrated inFIGS. 5 and 7.
• FIG. 9 is a front elevational perspective view of an adjustment mechanism for use in association with the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1 to vary the elevation of the sensor assembly.
• FIG. 10 is a front elevational perspective view of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1, as shown in a folded configuration adapted for transport or storage.
• FIG. 11 is a rear elevational perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 1.
• FIG. 12 is a rear elevational perspective view of an exercise device according to another form of the present invention.
• FIG. 13 is a rear elevational perspective view of an exercise device according to a further form of the present invention.
• FIG. 14 is a rear elevational perspective view of an exercise device according to yet another form of the present invention.
• FIG. 15 is a front elevational perspective view of the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 14.
• FIG. 16 is a rear elevational perspective view of an upper body unit for use in association with the exercise device illustrated inFIG. 14 to provide an upper body workout.
• FIG. 17 is an enlarged view of a portion of the upper body unit illustrated inFIG. 16, showing a flexibly elastic and resilient element attached to an inelastic cable element.
• FIG. 18 is a rear elevational view of the upper body unit illustrated inFIG. 16, with the inelastic cable element shown in a slackened state, and with the flexibly elastic and resilient element shown in an initial state.
• FIG. 19 is a rear elevational view of the upper body unit illustrated inFIG. 16, with the inelastic cable element shown in a taut state, and with the flexibly elastic and resilient element shown in an elastically deformed or stretched state.
DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENTS
• For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is hereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated devices, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
• Referring toFIG. 1, shown therein is anexercise device20 according to one form of the present invention. As will be discussed in greater detail below, theexercise device20 may be used in association with multiple activities, and is particularly used in association with activities involving jumping, walking or running. For example, in one embodiment of the invention, theexercise device20 is used to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In another embodiment of the invention, theexercise device20 is used in association with walking or running in place. In a further embodiment of the invention, theexercise device20 is used to measure vertical jumping ability and various parameters associated therewith. However, it should be understood that other embodiments of the invention are also contemplated, and that theexercise device20 may be used in association with activities other than those specifically illustrated and described herein.
• In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, theexercise device20 is generally comprised of abase unit22, an adjustableposition sensor assembly24, anadjustment mechanism26, and acontrol panel28 including a monitor ordisplay30. The function of each of these components of theexercise device20 will now be summarized, followed by a more in-depth discussion regarding the structural configuration and function of each of the components.
• Thebase unit22 includes a number of light sources or indicators that serve to provide a visual signal or cue to elicit a predetermined response from the user. In one embodiment, the elicited response is a jumping action. However, other elicited responses are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the invention, such as a walking action, a running action, a skipping action, or any other action associated with an exercise activity that would occur to one of skill in the art. Thebase unit22 may also be equipped with a number of sensor elements that serve to determine the user's presence upon or absence from thebase unit22.
• The adjustableposition sensor assembly24 includes a number of sensor elements that serve to determine whether or not the user's response satisfies a predetermined objective or goal, such as, for example, a predetermined elevation and/or an elapsed period of time. Theadjustment mechanism26 functions to vary the elevation or vertical position of theposition sensor assembly24 relative to thebase unit22 to correspondingly change the predetermined objective or goal of the user.
• Thecontrol panel28 controls and monitors operation of the various electrical components associated with theexercise device20 and may be configured to provide visual and/or audible indications or cues to elicit a user response. Thedisplay30 may also be configured to provide visual indications or cues to elicit a user response, and also serves to provide direct visualization of various parameters that are indicative of the user's performance of a predetermined activity as well as other types of information or data that may be useful to the user.
• According to one embodiment of the invention, thebase unit22 is generally comprised of asupport frame100, alight source assembly102, an upper mat orsupport pad104, asupport plate106, and a pressure sensitive pad orstrip108. The components of thebase unit22 are preferably interconnected in such a manner as to form an integral base unit assembly. Additionally, the footprint of thebase unit22 is preferably sized as small as possible while still allowing for unrestrained/uninhibited movement of the user during performance of an exercise activity. Each of the components of thebase unit22 will now be discussed in greater detail.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thesupport frame100 is formed of a number of support members120a-120dthat are interconnected to form a substantially rigid framework for providing structural support and rigidity to thebase unit22. In the illustrated embodiment, thesupport frame100 includes a pair ofside support members120a,120band front andrear support members120c,120dextending between theside support members120a,120b. Thesupport frame100 may also include a number of intermediate support members extending between theside support members120a,120band/or the front andrear support members120c,120dto provide further structural support and rigidity to thebase unit22. In one embodiment of the invention, the support members120a-120dare comprised of structural tubing formed of a lightweight material, such as, for example, a metallic material including aluminum or steel, a plastic or polymeric material, a composite material, or any other material that would occur to one of skill in the art. However, it should be understood that other types and configurations of support members and support structures are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention. In a further embodiment of the invention, thebase unit22 may include a number of levelers (not shown) attached to the underside of thesupport frame100 to provide a means for leveling thebase unit22, particularly when thebase unit22 is placed on an uneven surface.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thelight source assembly102 is generally comprised of apair mounting rails130a,130band a plurality oflight sources132. Themounting rails130a,130bare positioned along the sides of thebase unit22, extending generally along the longitudinal axis L and secured to the sidesupport frame members120a,120b, respectively. Thelight sources132 are mounted to each of themounting rails130a,130band are disposed at intermittent locations along the longitudinal axis L. As will discussed in greater detail below, thelight sources132 are capable of illuminating discrete portions or bands of thebase unit22, and more particularly theupper support pad104, to elicit a predetermined response from the user. It should be understood, however, that the light sources may be adapted to provide other types and configurations of illuminated areas or regions of thebase unit22.
• Each of the mountingrails130a,130bis configured substantially identical to one another. Accordingly, only the mountingrail130awill be described in detail, it being understood that the mountingrails130bis configured substantially identical to mountingrail130a. Referring specifically toFIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the invention, the mountingrail130aincludes a base portion134 secured to the upper surface of thesupport frame member120a, aleg portion136 extending upwardly from the base portion134, and ahousing portion138 positioned adjacent the end of theleg portion136. Thehousing portion138 defines a hollowinterior region140. A number of light source openings orapertures142 are formed through a side wall of thehousing portion138 facing the inner area of thebase unit22. A pair of removable end caps or covers144a,144b(FIGS. 1 and 2) are preferably secured to opposite ends of eachsupport rail130a,130bby a number of fasteners146 (FIG. 2) to close off the ends of the support rails130a,130b, and more particularly theinterior regions140 of thehousing portions138.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thelight sources132 are comprised of candescent or incandescent lights, with each light having abase portion150 and an illumination orbulb portion152. However, it should be understood that other types and configurations oflight sources132 are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention, such as, for example, a fiber-optic light source, a fluorescent light source, a laser light source, an LED light source, an infrared light source, or any other type of light source that would occur to one of skill in the art. It should be appreciated that any light source that is capable of generating a visual indication, signal or cue to elicit a response from the user is contemplated for use in association with the present invention. It should further be appreciated that the light source may additionally be configured to provide non-visual indications, signals or cues to elicit a response from the user. It should also be understood that although thelight sources132 are illustrated and described as having a bulbous configuration, other configurations are also contemplated, such as, for example, a tubular configuration or filament configuration extending laterally across thebase unit22.
• As most clearly shown inFIG. 6, thebase portions150 of thelight sources132 are positioned within theinterior region140 of thehousing138, with thebulb portions152 extending through respective ones of the light source apertures142. In one embodiment of the invention, thelights132 associated with the mountingrails130a,130bare arranged in opposing pairs that are generally aligned across from one another. Thebase portions150 of thelights132 are secured to a mountingbracket154 which is in turn engaged within theinterior region140 of thehousing138 to securely mount thelights132 to thesupport rail130a. Electrical leads156 extend from each of thelights132 and run through theinterior region140 of thehousing138 toward the front of thebase unit22. The leads156 may be routed through laterally-extendingtubular members158a,158barranged at the front ends of the support rails130a,130band up through the interior region of avertical support column160 to the control panel28 (seeFIG. 2). Thecontrol panel28 functions to turn thelights132 on and off at select time intervals, the details of which will be discussed below.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thevertical support column160 is generally comprised of a pair ofside walls162a,162band afront wall163 defining a hollowinterior region164. A removable rear cover (not shown) may also be provided to enclose theinterior region164 and the working components of theadjustment mechanism26. Thevertical support column160 is pivotally mounted to thebase unit22 via apivot pin165 passing between a pair of opposingyoke plates166a,166b(FIG. 5) extending upwardly from the laterally-extendingtubular members158a,158b. In this manner, thevertical support column160 is permitted to pivot about a pivot axis P₁between a substantially vertical operational position (FIG. 1) and a substantially horizontal storage or transport position (FIG. 10).
• Thevertical support column160 is selectively maintained in the vertical operational position via abracket167 having aflange plate portion168asecured to the lower ends of thecolumn side walls162a,162band abase plate portion168bthat is selectively attached to the frontframe support member120cvia a number of fasteners169 (FIG. 2). However, other means for selectively maintaining thevertical column160 in the vertical operational position are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention. As should be appreciated, pivoting thesupport column160 to the collapsed configuration illustrated inFIG. 10 provides for a more compact, lower profile configuration to facilitate transport of theexercise device20 and/or storage of theexercise device20 in areas having limited space, such as, for example, under a bed or in a closet.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theupper support pad104 defines anupper support surface105 and is preferably formed of a resilient, shock-absorbing material that is strong enough to support the dynamic weight of the user during an activity such as jumping, running, walking, etc., while still providing a certain degree of give or flexible resilience to reduce the likelihood of a stress-related injury. Although thesupport pad104 and theupper support surface105 have been illustrated and described as having a generally flat, planar configuration, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated, including curved or angled configurations. Thesupport pad104 may be formed of a non-slip material to reduce the likelihood of user injury. Alternatively, theupper support surface105 of thesupport pad104 may be treated to provide a non-slip surface, such as, for example, by roughening theupper support surface105 and/or by applying a non-slip material or coating to theupper support surface105. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, thesupport pad104 is formed of a transparent, translucent, semi-translucent or semi-opaque material that is capable of allowing for the transmission of an amount of light therethrough, the purpose of which will become apparent below. In a specific embodiment of the invention, theupper pad104 is formed of a urethane material. However, other materials are also contemplated for use in association with the present invention, including various types of plastic materials, polymeric materials, or rubber materials.
• As illustrated inFIGS. 5-7, a number of channels oropenings170 are formed through thesupport pad104, extending laterally across thebase unit22. Thesupport pad104 also includes a pair of mountingflange portions172a,172bextending laterally from opposite sides of thesupport pad104 and running substantially the entire length thereof, the purpose of which will be discussed below. In one embodiment of the invention, thechannels170 have a substantially circular cross section and are generally aligned with opposing pairs of thelights132 such that activation of an opposing pair of thelights132 will illuminate the region of thesupport pad104 adjacent the correspondinglight channel170. Thelight channels170 are preferably sized and positioned such that the thickness of material t₁(FIG. 6) directly above thelight channels170 is significantly less than the thickness of material t₂(FIG. 7) between adjacent ones of thelight channels170. In this manner, a majority of the light emitted by thelights132 will be transmitted in an upward direction to illuminate the region of thesupport pad104 above the correspondinglight channel170. Although a specific size, shape and configuration of thelight channels170 has been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that other sizes, shapes and configurations of thelight channels170 are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention.
• In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the light channels orlights bands170 extend laterally across thebase unit22 and are generally aligned with the transverse axis T. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, thelight channels170 may alternatively extend along the longitudinal axis L or in directions oblique to the transverse axis T. Furthermore, although thelight channels170 are illustrated as having a substantially linear configuration, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, some or all of thelight channels170 may take on a non-linear configuration, such as, for example, an arcuate or curved configuration or a polygonal configuration. One such embodiment is illustrated inFIG. 8 wherein thelight channels170′ positioned toward the front and rear of thebase unit22 have varying degrees of lateral curvature, the purpose of which will be discussed below. Additionally, although thelight channels170 are illustrated as being offset from one another by a substantially uniform distance, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, the distance between thelight channels170 may be varied. Moreover, although thebase unit22 is illustrated as having eight (8)light channels170, it should be understood that any number oflight channels170 may be used, including a singlelight channel170.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thesupport plate106 is formed of a relatively rigid material, such as, for example, an aluminum material or a composite material. However, it should be understood that thesupport plate106 may be formed of other materials as would occur to one of skill in the art, such as, for example, a plastic material or a polymeric material. Thesupport plate106 is positioned beneath thesupport pad104 and is coupled thereto by a number ofclip members180 that extend about the lateral end portions of thesupport plate106 and engage the mountingflange portions172a,172bof thesupport pad104. Theclip members180 are in turn secured to the base portions134 of the mountingrails130a,130bto engage thesupport pad104 and thesupport plate106 to thesupport frame100.
• In one embodiment of the invention, the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 is formed of a relatively rigid material, such as, for example, an aluminum material or a composite material. However, the pressure sensitive pad108 (FIGS. 5 and 6) may also be formed of other materials as would occur to one of skill in the art, such as, for example, a plastic material or a polymeric material.
• Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 is positioned beneath thesupport plate106 and is engaged to thesupport frame100. A plurality ofpressure sensors190 are positioned along the upper surface of the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 proximately adjacent the lower surface ofsupport plate106. A number ofpressure sensors190 may also be positioned between thesupport plate106 and the base portion134 of the mountingrails130a,130band/or at other locations along thesupport plate106. Thepressure sensors190 are electrically connected to thecontrol panel28. As should be appreciated, when the user stands upon thesupport pad104, the weight of the user will slightly displace thesupport plate106, thereby actuating one or more of thepressure sensor190. Thepressure sensors190 in turn provide a signal to thecontrol panel28 to indicate the presence or absence of the user upon thesupport pad104. Although a specific type and configuration of thepressure sensor190 has been illustrated and described herein, it should be understood that other types and configurations of pressure sensors are also contemplated for use in association with the present invention as would occur to one of skill in the art.
• According to one embodiment of the invention, the adjustableposition sensor assembly24 is generally comprised of a mountingstructure200 and a plurality ofposition sensors202 mounted to the mountingstructure200. As illustrated inFIG. 4, theposition sensors202 are preferably arranged along a sensing plane S located above theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104 so as to detect the presence of the user along the sensing plane S. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sensing plane S is arranged substantially parallel with theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104. However, it should be understood that the sensing plane S may be arranged at an oblique angle relative to thesupport surface105. Additionally, although the sensing plane S has been illustrated and described as having a generally flat or linear configuration, it should be understood that the sensing plane S may take on other configurations, such as, for example, a polygonal configuration or an arcuate or rounded configuration.
• In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, theposition sensor assembly24 is comprised of a plurality ofposition sensors202 positioned to define a single sensing plane S located above theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104 so as to detect the presence of the user along the sensing plane S. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, theposition sensor assembly24 may include a plurality ofposition sensors202 arranged so as to define multiple sensing planes S positioned at predetermined vertical intervals relative to one another. In this manner, the vertical adjustability feature of theposition sensor assembly24 may be eliminated if desired, relying instead upon the sensing of the presence and/or absence of the user along the multiple sensing planes S to correspondingly measure the vertical position of the user relative to theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104. In a further embodiment of the invention, theposition sensor assembly24 may include a plurality ofposition sensors202 arranged so as to define one or more sensing planes S extending in a substantially vertical orientation to measure the position of the user relative to theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104.
• In one embodiment of the invention, the mountingstructure200 includes a pair of mounting arms orbars204a,204bdisposed along respective sides of thebase unit22. The mountingarms204a,204bpreferably extend generally along the longitudinal axis L and are preferably positioned generally above the lightsource mounting rails130a,130b. However, other orientations and positions of the mountingarms204a,204bare also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention. The mountingarms204a,204bare interconnected to one another via a generally V-shaped orU-shaped base portion206 which is in turn coupled to thevertical support column160, the details of which will be discussed below. Theposition sensors202 are mounted to and are disposed at intermittent axial locations along the mountingarms204a,204b.
• The mountingarms204a,204bare configured substantially identical to one another. Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, in one embodiment of the invention, the mountingarms204a,204bhave a tubular configuration defining a hollowinterior region210. A number of sensor openings or apertures212 (FIG. 6) are formed through a side wall of each of the mountingarms204a,204bfacing the inner area of thebase unit22. A removable end cap or cover214 (FIG. 1) is preferably positioned over the open end of each mountingarm204a,204bto close off theinterior region210 from the outer environment.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theposition sensors202 are of the photoelectric type, with eachposition sensor202 including an emitter unit E and a receiver unit R. As shown inFIGS. 5 and 6, the emitter and receiver units E, R are positioned within theinterior regions210 of the mountingarms204a,204b, with the emitting and receivingportions214 of the units E, R generally aligned with respective ones of thesensor apertures212. Thebase portions215 of the units E, R are secured to a mountingbracket216 which is in turn engaged within theinterior region210 of the mountingarms204a,204bto securely mount thesensors202 to the mountingstructure200. Electrical leads218 extend from each of the emitter and receiver units E, R and are run through theinterior regions210 of the mountingarms204a,204b, through the interior region of thebase portion206, and up along thevertical support column160 to thecontrol panel28.
• As should be appreciated, the emitter units E each emit a light beam B that is received or sensed by a corresponding receiver unit R, with each of the light beams B extending generally along the sensing plane S. As should also be appreciated, the emitter and receiver units E, R are arranged in opposing pairs, with an emitter unit E mounted to one of the mounting arms (e.g.,204a) and positioned in generally alignment with a corresponding receiver unit R mounted to the opposite mounting arm (e.g.,204b). When there is no obstruction present between the emitter unit E and the receiver unit R, the light beam B will remain unbroken and the receiver unit R will communicate a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating an uninterrupted condition. However, when the light beam B is broken by an obstruction (e.g., by the user's foot or leg) the receiver unit R will communicate a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating an interrupted condition. Accordingly, theposition sensors202 are capable of detecting the presence or absence of the user along the sensing plane S, and hence the position of the user relative to thebase unit22.
• As will be discussed below, the height h₁or elevation of thesensor assembly24 and theposition sensors202 may be varied relative to thesupport surface105 of the support pad104 (FIG. 4) via theadjusting mechanism26 to correspondingly adjust the height of the sensing plane S relative to theupper support surface105. Theadjustment mechanism26 is preferably configured to provide approximately thirty-six (36) inches of vertical adjustment to thesensor assembly24. In one embodiment of the invention, the light beams B are visible to provide the user with a visual indication as to the selected height h₁of theposition sensors202 and the sensing plane S. Laser-type emitters E that emit a relatively intense/bright beam of light B are particularly suitable for visualization by the user; however, other types of emitters E are also contemplated as would occur to one of skill in the art. In order to provide enhanced visualization of the light beams B, the ambient lighting may be turned down and/or fog, smoke or another type of air-borne substance or material may be provided. Additionally, although the light beams B are illustrated as being linear, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, thesensors202 may be configured and arranged such that the light beams B are non-linear (e.g., curvilinear or angled).
• In one embodiment of the invention, the number ofposition sensors202 associated with thesensor assembly24 corresponds to the number of thelight channels170 in thebase unit22. In the illustrated embodiment, thesensor assembly24 includes eight (8)position sensors202 corresponding to the eight (8)light channels170 in thebase unit22. However, it should be understood that any number ofposition sensors202 may be used, including asingle position sensor202, a pair ofposition sensors202, or any other number ofposition sensors202. It should also be understood that the number ofposition sensors202 need not necessarily correspond to the number oflight channels170. Additionally, theposition sensors202 need not necessarily be aligned directly above a correspondinglight channel170, and need not necessarily be offset from one another by a uniform distance.
• As illustrated inFIG. 3, the opposing pairs of the emitter and receiver units E, R are preferably arranged in a staggered or alternating configuration such that the receiver units R are separated from another by an intermediate emitter unit E. As a result, the likelihood that a receiver unit R will erroneously detect the light beam B emitted from the wrong emitter unit E is reduced. However, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated, including configurations where all of the emitter units E are mounted to one of the mounting arms (e.g.,204a) and all the receiver units R are mounted to the opposite mounting arm (e.g.,204b).
• Although theposition sensors202 have been illustrated and described as photoelectric-type sensors, with eachposition sensor202 including an emitter unit E and a receiver unit R, it should be understood that other types and configurations of position sensors are also contemplate as falling within the scope of the present invention. For example, instead of having separate emitter and receiver units E and R, in other embodiments of the invention, the emitter and receiver elements may be integrated into a single unit. In this alternative embodiment, the integrated emitter/receiver unit would be mounted to one of the mounting arms (e.g.,204a), with an optical reflector mounted to the other mounting arm (e.g.,204b) and positioned in generally alignment with the integrated emitter/receiver unit. As should be appreciated, the emitter portion of the integrated unit would emit a light beam that is reflected off of the optical reflector and back to the receiver portion of the integrated unit. Additionally, in lieu of photoelectric-type sensors, thesensor assembly24 may include other types of position sensors, including various types and configurations of laser sensors, fiber optic sensors, optical sensors, motion sensors, infrared sensors, thermal sensors, ultrasonic sensors, capacitive sensors, proximity sensors, or any other type of position sensor that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• Referring toFIG. 9, according to one embodiment of the invention, theadjustment mechanism26 is generally comprised of an actuator orelectric drive motor300, a threaded drive shaft or screw302, and a threaded drive plate ornut304 that is coupled to thesensor assembly24 via aconnector bracket306. Thedrive motor300 is electrically connected to thecontrol panel28. As should be appreciated, rotation of thedrive motor300 will correspondingly rotate thedrive shaft302, which in turn threadingly engages thedrive plate304 to vertically displace thesensor assembly24 in the direction of arrows A. The speed of thedrive motor300 is preferably controllable so as to correspondingly adjust or regulate the rate of vertical displacement of thesensor assembly24. As illustrated inFIG. 4, theadjustment mechanism26 provides the capability to selectively adjust the height h₁of thesensor assembly24 relative to thebase unit22 within a range of operational positions. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, theadjustment mechanism26 is configured to provide approximately thirty-six (36) inches of vertical adjustment. However, it should be understood that other ranges of vertical adjustment are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention, including vertical adjustments and/or vertical heights of greater than thirty-six (36) inches.
• As illustrated inFIG. 2, theadjustment mechanism26 is housed within theinterior region164 of the vertical support column160 (thesupport column160 having been removed fromFIG. 9 for purposes of clarity). Thedrive motor300 is secured to thevertical support column160, and more specifically to theside wall162b, via a number offasteners310 or by any other means for attachment. The driven end of thedrive shaft302 is rotatably coupled to theoutput shaft312 of thedrive motor300 via acoupling314, with the free end of thedrive shaft302 rotatably mounted to anupper mounting plate316 via a bushing orbearing318. Thedrive plate304 defines an internally threadedopening320 that threadingly receives thedrive shaft302. The threadedopening320 may be machined directly into thedrive plate304 or may be defined by an internally threaded bushing insert. Thedrive plate304 is attached to theconnector bracket306 by an intermediate L-shapedbracket322 which is secured to thedrive plate304 and theconnector plate306 via a number offasteners324 or by any other means for attachment. Alternatively, thedrive plate304 and theconnector bracket306 may be integrally formed as a single piece.
• As most clearly shown inFIGS. 2 and 9, in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, theadjustment mechanism26 includes a pair of guide tracks orchannels330 and332 positioned at the front and rear of thesupport column160. Front and rear portions of theconnector bracket306 are slidably displaced along the guide tracks330,332 to stabilize theconnector bracket306 and the sensorassembly mounting structure200, particularly during adjustment of the height h₁of theposition sensors202. In one embodiment, the guide tracks330,332 are defined by a pair of vertically-extending bars orrods334a,334bspaced apart a distance sufficient to slidably receive theconnector bracket306 therebetween. The guide bars334a,334bare interconnected via an upper and lower studs orfasteners336a,336b. Thestuds336a,336bmay define an externally threaded portion adapted for threading engagement within a threaded opening in one of the guide bars to provide a means for adjusting the width of the guide tracks330,332.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theconnector bracket306 is pivotally attached to a mountingflange340 extending from thebase portion206 of the sensorassembly mounting structure200 via apivot pin342. In this manner, thesensor assembly24 is allowed to pivot about a pivot axis P₂between an operational position (FIG. 1), wherein the mountingarms204a,204bare arranged substantially perpendicular to thevertical support column160, and a storage or transport position (FIG. 10) wherein the mountingarms204a,204bare arranged substantially parallel with thevertical support column160. Thesensor assembly24 is selectively maintained in the operational position illustrated inFIG. 1 via abutment of an end surface ofconnector bracket306 against thebase portion206 of the sensorassembly mounting structure200. However, other means for selectively maintaining thesensor assembly24 in the operational position are also contemplated as would occur to one of skill in the art. As should be appreciated, pivoting thesensor assembly24 to the collapsed configuration illustrated inFIG. 10 provides for a more compact, lower profile configuration to facilitate transport of theexercise device20 and/or storage of theexercise device20 in areas having limited space, such as, for example, under a bed or in a closet.
• Although a specific embodiment of an adjustment mechanism has been illustrated and described herein for adjusting the height h₁of theposition sensors202, it should be understood that other means for adjustment are also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention. For example, a linear actuator could alternatively be used to adjust the height h₁, including various types and configurations of electric linear drives or pneumatic cylinder arrangements. A gear driven system is also contemplated, such as, for example, a rack and pinion type system. Additionally, a cabling system powered by a rotational or linear drive may also be used to adjust the height h₁. In another embodiment, a crank handle or a ratchet handle may be used to drive various types and configurations of adjustment mechanisms. In a further embodiment of the invention, the height h₁may be manually adjusted by hand and locked into a selected position via a lock pin or clamp. Other means for adjusting the height h₁are also contemplated as would occur to one of skill in the art. It should also be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, thesensor assembly24 and thesensors202 may be fixed at a predetermined non-adjustable height h₁.
• According to one embodiment of the invention, as illustrated inFIG. 1, thecontrol panel28 is securely mounted to the upper end of thesupport column160. Thecontrol panel28 may be rotatably and/or pivotally mounted to the upper end of thesupport column160 to accommodate for adjustment of the angular position and/or orientation of thecontrol panel28 relative to the user or a third party.
• As discussed above, thecontrol panel28 controls and/or monitors the operation of the various electrical components associated with theexercise device20. For example, thecontrol panel28 functions to activate/deactivate thelight sources132 in thebase unit22, power and receive feedback signals from thepressure sensors190 in thebase unit22, power and receive feedback signals from theposition sensors202 of theposition sensor assembly24, and power and control operation of theelectric drive motor302 of theadjustment mechanism26. As should be appreciated, thecontrol panel28 may also be used to control, monitor and/or power other electrical components associated with theexercise device20 or other ancillary equipment. Power can be supplied to thecontrol panel28 and other electrical components via household current, one or more batteries, and/or by any other type of power supply known to those of skill in the art.
• Thecontrol panel28 is equipped with an electronic circuit board (not shown), a programmable controller (not shown) and/or any other type of electronic control system known to those of skill in the art. Thecontrol panel28 preferably includes various buttons orkeys400 or other types of input devices (e.g., knobs, switches, a touch pad, etc.) to provide a user interface for inputting information and/or data to control operation of the various components and features associated with theexercise device20. A heart monitor (not shown) may also be provided to monitor the user's heart rate, blood pressure, etc., the output of which may be communicated to thecontrol panel28 via a wireless or direct-wired connection.
• Thedisplay30 on thecontrol panel28 provides for direct visualization of various parameters that are indicative of the user's performance of an activity, such as, for example, information or data relating to the frequency and duration of the activity, the number of missteps or miscues, elapsed time, an estimate of the number of calories burned, measured heart rate or blood pressure, historical data relating to the activity, etc. Thedisplay30 may also be used to convey other information or data to the user, such as, for example, component settings, a programming menu and/or operating instructions (e.g., a help screen), etc. In one embodiment of the invention, thedisplay30 is an LCD display. However, other types of displays are also contemplated, including plasma displays, CRT monitors, or any other type of display or monitor that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• In addition to thedisplay30, thecontrol panel28 also includes a pair ofindicator lights402,404 that provide visual indications or cues to the user to elicit a response, such as, for example, a jumping movement, and/or to provide visual confirmation or feedback signals to the user indicating that a predetermined parameter has been satisfied, such as, for example, jumping beyond a predetermined height (e.g., beyond the sensing plane S). In one embodiment, the indicator lights402,404 are of different colors (e.g., red and green) to allow the user to quickly and easily interpret the meaning behind the indication, cue, confirmation, and/or feedback signal corresponding to illumination of either of thelights402,404. Thecontrol panel28 may also include a speaker or any other device that is capable of emitting a sound or tone to provide audible indications, cues, configurations and/or feedback signals to the user.
• Theexercise device20 may also be equipped with a remote control device (not shown) configured to communicate with thecontrol panel28 to control operation of the various electrical components associated with theexercise device20 from a remote location. The remote control device may include a display to provide remote visualization of various parameters associated with the user's performance of an activity, component settings, etc. The remote control device may be of the wireless type or may be hard wired into thecontrol panel28. The use of a remote control device may be particularly advantageous when a third party, such as, for example, a coach, trainer or instructor is present.
• As illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 2, theexercise device20 may be equipped with a pair of user supports orhandrails500a,500bpositioned on each side of thebase unit22. In one embodiment of the invention, thehandrails500a,500beach include arear portion502 extending vertically from thebase unit22, aside portion504 extending horizontally along the longitudinal axis L, and afront portion506 extending horizontally along the transverse axis T and into engagement with thevertical support column160. However, other configurations ofhandrails500a,500bare also contemplated as would occur to one of skill in the art. It should also be understood that theexercise device20 need not necessarily be equipped with handrails.
• Although the illustrated embodiment of the invention depicts theside portions504 of thehandrails5002,500bas having a generally linear configuration, it should be understood that theside portions504 may be angled or curved. In a further embodiment of the invention, theside portions504 have a generally circular cross section defining an outer diameter of between about one (1) inch and about three (3) inches to provide for secure and comfortable grasping by the user. Additionally, theside portions504 may be treated to provide a non-slip surface to reduce the likelihood of user injury. Such a non-slip surface may be provided, for example, by roughening the outer surface of theside portions504 via knurling or peening, by applying a non-slip material or coating to the outer surface of theside portions504, and/or by providing hand grips that are formed of a non-slip material, such as, for example, plastic, rubber or foam.
• In a further embodiment of the invention, thehandrails500a,500bmay be provided with a means for adjusting the height of theside portions504 relative to thesupport pad104 to accommodate users of different heights and/or different arm lengths. In one such embodiment, the vertically-extendingrear portions502 of thehandrails500a,500bmay include an inner tube portion that is telescopically received with an outer tube portion to provide for adjustment of the height of theside portions504 relative to thesupport pad104, and a clamp or fastener device, such as, for example, a pin or push button for locking theside portions504 at a select height.
• Thehandrails500a,500bare preferably selectively detachable from thebase unit22 and thesupport column160 to accommodate transformation of theexercise device20 into the collapsed configuration illustrated inFIG. 10 to facilitate transport and/or storage. In one embodiment of the invention, the ends of the verticalrear portions502 of thehandrails500a,500bare slidably received within mountingsleeves508 extending upwardly from the mountingrails130a,130bof thebase unit22. Similarly, the ends of the horizontalfront portions506 of thehandrails500a,500bare slidably received within mountingsleeves510 extending laterally from theside walls162a,162bof the support column160 (FIG. 2). The ends of thehandrails500a,500bmay be removably secured within the mountingsleeves508,510 via setscrews, pins, clamps, a friction fit, or by any other means of releasable engagement known to those of skill in the art. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, thehandrails500a,500bmay be pivotally attached to thebase unit22 in such a manner as to allow thehandrails500a,500bto be folded to accommodate transformation of theexercise device20 into the collapsed configuration illustrated inFIG. 10.
• Having described the various components, functions and features associated with theexercise device20, further details regarding the use and operation of the exercise devices will now be discussed below. According to one form of the invention, theexercise device20 may be used to simulate the activity of jumping rope. In another embodiment of the invention, theexercise device20 may be used in association with walking or running in place. With regard to the embodiment of the invention directed to the exercise activity involving a simulated jump rope, thecontrol panel28 is configured and/or programmed to activate (turn on) thelight sources132 in a sequential manner, preferably in a front to back direction (e.g., from the front of the base unit toward the rear of the base unit). However, it should be understood that thelight sources132 may alternatively be activated in a sequential manner in a back to front direction. As should be appreciated, activation of thelight sources132 associated with a correspondinglight channel170 will illuminate a discrete band or strip of thesupport pad104 directly above thatlight channel170. As should also be appreciated, upon the sequential activation of eachlight source132, the adjacentlight source132 toward the front of thebase unit22 will be deactivated (turned off).
• The sequential activation/deactivation of thelight sources132 has the effect of providing a virtual simulation of a jump rope passing beneath the user's feet. As illustrated inFIG. 8 and described above, thelight channels170′ positioned toward the front and rear of thebase unit22 may be configured to have varying degrees of lateral curvature to provide an even more realistic simulation of a jump rope passing beneath the user's feet. The speed and frequency at which thelight sources132 are sequentially activated and deactivated can be varied via thecontrol panel28 to adjust the speed and frequency (e.g., cadence) at which the virtual jump rope passes beneath the user's feet, thereby enabling the user to control his or her aerobic workout level.
• As thelight sources132 are sequentially activated and deactivated, the user is cued to react by “jumping over” the virtual jump rope (i.e., the illuminated light band extending across the support pad104) as the virtual jump rope passes directly beneath the user's feet. Additionally, the user must jump high enough to clear the virtual jump rope. Theposition sensors202 can function to verify or confirm that the user has in fact cleared the virtual jump rope as it passes beneath the user's feet. Thepressure sensors190 associated with the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 may also be used to verify that the user actually jumped off of thesupport pad104 and/or that the user jumped at the appropriate time to clear the virtual jump rope.
• As should be appreciated, if the user jumps high enough to extend above the sensing plane S (i.e., above the light beams B), theposition sensors202 will send a confirmation signal to thecontrol panel28 that a successful jump has been executed. In turn, a visual and/or non-visual indication may be provided to confirm that the jump was successful. In one embodiment, one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a green light) will illuminate to provide visual confirmation to the user that the jump was successful. However, other types of indications are also contemplated, such as, for example, other types of lights, graphical symbols, audible signals, and/or other types of visual and/or non-visual indications that would occur to one of skill in the art. If the user fails to extend above the sensing plane S, at least one of the light beams B will remain broken by the user's legs or feet. As a result, one or more of theposition sensors202 will send a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating that the jump was unsuccessful (e.g., a miscue). In turn, a visual and/or non-visual indication may be provided to confirm that the jump was successful, such as, for example, illumination of one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a red light) to provide visual confirmation to the user that the jump was unsuccessful. The light402,404 indicating a successful jump (e.g., the green light) will preferably remain illuminated until an unsuccessful jump has been detected. As discussed above, the height h₁of theposition sensors202 may be adjusted to correspondingly adjust the height at which the user must jump to clear the virtual jump rope. As a result, the user is able to control his or her anaerobic workout level. It should be understood that the height h₁of theposition sensors202 may be adjusted before or during the user's workout, and may be adjusted manually by the user or automatically by thecontrol panel28.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theposition sensors202 may be sequentially activated/deactivated substantially synchronously with the sequential activation/deactivation of thelight sources132. In other words, the activation/deactivation of theposition sensors202 may be configured to substantially track the activation/deactivation of thelight sources132. As discussed above, the light beams B generated by theposition sensors202 may be configured to be visible by the user so as to provide a visual indication of the selected height h₁of theposition sensors202 and the sensing plane S relative to thesupport pad104. In this manner, the light beams B provide further simulation of the virtual jump rope passing beneath the user's feet while at the same time providing the user with an easily identifiable indication as to the height the user must jump to clear the virtual jump rope. In a further embodiment of the invention, additional light sources or cueing devices may be mounted to one or both of the mountingarms204a,204bof thesensor frame200 which illuminate substantially synchronously with the respectivelight sources132 to provide further indication as to when and how high the user must jump to clear the virtual jump rope. Non-visual signaling devices, such as, for example, audible signaling devices, may also be mounted to one or both of the mountingarms204a,204bof thesensor frame200 to provide further indication as to when and how high the user must jump to clear the virtual jump rope.
• Thepressure sensors190 associated with the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 may be used in addition to or in lieu of theposition sensors202 to verify or confirm whether a jump was successful or unsuccessful. As should be appreciated, if the user jumps off of thesupport pad104 at the appropriate time as the virtual jump rope passes beneath the user's feet, thepressure sensors190 will send a confirmation signal to thecontrol panel28 that a successful jump has been executed and one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a green light) will illuminate. However, if the user fails to jump off of thesupport pad104 at the appropriate time, one or more of thepressure sensors190 will send a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating that the jump was unsuccessful and one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a red light) will illuminate. The light402,404 indicating a successful jump (e.g., the green light) will preferably remain illuminated until an unsuccessful jump has been detected.
• As discussed above, thecontrol panel28 may be configured to generate a visual signal on thedisplay30, an audible signal, and/or other types of signals to indicate that a particular jump was successful or unsuccessful. Additionally, it should be understood that the “signal” sent to thecontrol panel28 by theposition sensors202 and/or thepressure sensors190 can take the form of an actual electronic signal or may take the form of the absence of an electronic signal. It should also be understood that thecontrol panel28 may be programmed with predetermined workout parameters or settings that will automatically vary the speed and frequency of the virtual jump rope passing beneath the user's feet and/or the height at which the user must jump to clear the virtual jump rope. In this manner, the user may work out without interruption or distraction and without having to manually change the parameters or settings of theexercise device20.
• The anaerobic benefits of the exercise device can be enhanced via the use of hand, waist or ankle weights in conjunction with the rope jumping activity. Notably, unlike the actual activity of jumping rope, the virtual jump rope generated by theexercise device20 frees up the user's hands to allow the user to perform other functions (e.g., grasping hand weights, balancing via thehandrails500a,500b, etc.). Additionally, the user does not have to concentrate on the proper handling of the rope and keeping their feet and legs clear of the rope, thereby enabling the user to concentrate solely on the jumping activity itself. As a result, user safety and comfort is significantly enhanced. Moreover, the user has a totally free range of motion with regard to both their hands and legs.
• With regard to the embodiment of the invention directed to use of theexercise device20 in association with the activity of walking or running in place, as illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 3, thebase unit22 and thesensor assembly24 are configured to define a first zone Z₁and a second zone Z₂, with each of the zones extending generally along the transverse axis T. However, it should be understood that thebase unit22 and thesensor assembly24 may be divided into any number of zones, including three or more zones, and that the zones may extend in other directions, including a direction extending generally along the longitudinal axis L. Each of the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂includes a number of thelight sources132 that selectively illuminate a corresponding number of thelight channels170, and a number ofposition sensors202 that emit a corresponding number of the light beams B. Although the illustrated embodiment of the invention depicts each of the zones Z₁, Z₂as having four (4)light channels170 and four (4) light beams B, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated, including configurations wherein each of the zones Z₁, Z₂include a singlelight channel170 and a single light beam B.
• In the illustrated embodiment of the invention, the user faces a transverse direction (i.e., toward either side of the base unit22) and places one foot (e.g., the right foot) within the first zone Z₁and the other foot (e.g., the left foot) within the second zone Z₂. Thecontrol panel28 is configured and/or programmed to activate and deactivate thelight sources132 in the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂in an alternating manner. Activation of thelight sources132 in the first zone Z₁cues the user to react by raising his or her right foot off of thesupport pad104. After a period of time, thelight sources132 in the first zone Z₁will deactivate, thereby cueing the user to react by placing his or her right foot back onto thesupport pad104. Thelight sources132 in the second zone ZS will then activate, cueing the user to react by raising his or her left foot off of thesupport pad104. In one embodiment, activation oflight sources132 in the second zone ZS occurs virtually simultaneously with deactivation of thelight sources132 in the first zone Z₁. However, a delay between activation and deactivation of thelight sources132 associated with the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂is also contemplated. After a period of time, thelight sources132 in the second zone Z₂will deactivate, thereby cueing the user to react by placing his or her left foot back onto thesupport pad104. Thelight sources132 in the first zone Z₁will once again activate, and the activation/deactivation sequence of the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂will be repeated indefinitely. It should be understood that in another embodiment of the invention, deactivation of thelight sources132 may be used to cue the user to raise his or her foot off of thesupport pad104, while activation of the light sources cues the user to place his or her foot back onto thesupport pad104.
• As should now be appreciated, activation and deactivation of the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂in an alternating manner provides the user with visual indications which, if followed, will cue the user to walk or run in place. As should also be appreciated, the speed at which the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂are activated and deactivated can be varied via thecontrol panel28 to adjust the speed (i.e., cadence) at which the user must walk or run in place, thereby enabling the user to control his or her aerobic workout level. The user may set the speed before beginning the workout or may manually adjust the speed setting at any point during the workout. Additionally, thecontrol panel28 may be programmed with various speed settings that remain constant throughout the user's workout, or which are automatically adjust at various points during the user's workout. In this manner, the user may work out without interruption or distraction.
• In another aspect of the invention, theposition sensors202 may be used to verify or confirm that the user raised his or her foot off of the corresponding zone Z₁, Z₂at the appropriate time and at the appropriate elevation above theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104. In a further aspect of the invention,pressure sensors190 located beneath respective ones of the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂may also be used to verify that the user raised his or her foot off of the corresponding zone Z₁, Z₂at the appropriate point in time.
• As should be appreciated, if the user raises his or her foot high enough to extend above the sensing plane S (i.e., above the light beams B), theposition sensors202 will send a confirmation signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating that the user is successfully performing the walking/running activity. In turn, one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a green light) will illuminate to provide visual confirmation to the user that he or she is performing successfully. However, if the user fails to extend above the sensing plane S, at least one of the light beams B will remain broken by the user's leg or foot. As a result, one or more of theposition sensors202 will send a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating the user's unsuccessful performance of the activity (e.g., a misstep or miscue). In turn, one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a red light) will illuminate to provide visual confirmation to the user regarding his or her unsuccessful performance of the activity. The light402,404 indicating successful performance (e.g., the green light) will preferably remain illuminated until a misstep or miscue has been detected. As discussed above, the height h₁of theposition sensors202 may be adjusted relative to theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104, thereby resulting in an adjustment to the height at which the user must raise his or her feet to clear the light beams B. As a result, the user is able to control his or her anaerobic workout level. It should be understood that the height h₁of theposition sensors202 may be adjusted before or during the user's workout, and may be adjusted manually by the user or automatically by thecontrol panel28.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theposition sensors202 associated with each of the respective zone Z₁, Z₂may be activated/deactivated in an alternating manner to correspond with the alternating activation/deactivation of thelight sources132. In other words, the activation/deactivation of theposition sensors202 within the respective zone Z₁, Z₂may be configured to substantially track the activation/deactivation of thelight sources132 within the respective zone Z₁, Z₂. As discussed above, the light beams B generated by theposition sensors202 may be configured to be visible by the user so as to provide a visual indication of the selected height h₁of theposition sensors202 and the sensing plane S relative to thesupport pad104. In this manner, the light beams B provide the user with an easily identifiable indication as to the height at which the user's foot must be raised to clear the sensing plane S. In a further embodiment of the invention, additional light sources or cueing devices may be used to cue the user as to when his or her foot should be raised off of thesupport pad104. In one embodiment, additional light sources or cueing devices may be mounted to one or both of the mountingarms204a,204b, or at other locations, which illuminate substantially synchronously with thelight sources132 within the respective zone Z₁, Z₂to provide further indication as to when the user must raise his or her foot off of thesupport pad104.
• Thepressure sensors190 located beneath respective ones of the first and second zones Z₁, Z₂may be used in addition to or in lieu of theposition sensors202 to verify or confirm whether the user is performing the walking/running activity successfully or unsuccessfully. As should be appreciated, thepressure sensors190 may be used to verify or confirm that the user raised his or her foot off of the corresponding zone Z₁, Z₂at the appropriate point in time. If the user's performance is successful, thepressure sensors190 will send a confirmation signal to thecontrol panel28 and one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a green light) will illuminate. However, if the user is unsuccessful, one or more of thepressure sensors190 will send a signal to thecontrol panel28 and one of the indicator lights402,404 (e.g., a red light) will illuminate. The light402,404 indicating successful performance (e.g., the green light) will preferably remain illuminated until a misstep or miscue has been detected.
• As discussed above, thecontrol panel28 may be configured to generate a visual signal on thedisplay30, an audible signal, and/or other types of signals to indicate that the user's performance was successful or unsuccessful. Additionally, it should be understood that the “signal” sent to thecontrol panel28 by theposition sensors202 and/or thepressure sensors190 can take the form of an actual electronic signal or may take the form of the absence of an electronic signal.
• Referring toFIG. 11, shown therein is an alternative embodiment of theexercise device20 illustrated and described above. In many ways, theexercise device20′ is configured similar to theexercise device20, including abase unit22, an adjustableposition sensor assembly24, anadjustment mechanism26, acontrol panel28, and a monitor ordisplay30. However, theexercise device20′ is additionally equipped with a stationaryposition sensor assembly50.
• In one embodiment of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 includes a number of sensor elements that serve to determine the position and/or orientation of the user's feet relative to theupper surface105 of thesupport pad104, the details of which will be discussed below. In other embodiments of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used in a manner similar to that of theadjustable sensor assembly24 to determine whether or not the user's response to a cue or signal satisfies a predetermined objective or goal, such as, for example, a predetermined elevation and/or an elapsed period of time. In the illustrated embodiment, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 is used in combination with the adjustableposition sensor assembly24. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used without the adjustableposition sensor assembly24.
• According to one embodiment of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 is generally comprised of a pair of spaced apart mountingstructures52a,52bextending along the length of thebase unit22 in a direction generally parallel with the longitudinal axis L, and a pair of spaced apart mountingstructures54a,54bextending across the width of thebase unit22 in a direction generally parallel with the transverse axis T. The mountingstructures52a,52band54a,54bare preferably securely mounted to thesupport pad104 or to other portions of thebase unit22. A plurality ofposition sensors56 are mounted to each of the mountingstructures52a,52band54a,54b. Each of theposition sensors56 are preferably positioned at a predetermined distance above thesupport surface105 so as to define a sensing grid G arranged approximately parallel with thesupport surface105. In this manner, theposition sensors56 will be able to detect the presence or absence of the user's feet along the sensing grid G.
• In one embodiment of the invention, the mountingstructures52a,52band54a,54bare configured substantially identical to one another and have a tubular configuration defining a hollow interior region for receiving thesensors56. In a specific embodiment, theposition sensors56 are mounted within thetubes52a,52band54a,54bin a manner similar to that described above with regard to the adjustable position sensor assembly24 (e.g., via a mounting bracket similar to that of mountingbracket216 and generally aligned with sensor apertures in the tubes similar to sensor apertures212). However, it should be understood that other configurations of the mountingtubes52a,52band54a,54bare also contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention.
• In one embodiment of the invention, theposition sensors56 are of the photoelectric type, with eachposition sensor56 including opposing emitter and receiver units configured similar to the emitter and receiver units E, R illustrated and described above with regard to theposition sensors202 associated with the adjustableposition sensor assembly24. Similar to theposition sensors202 illustrated inFIG. 3, the opposing pairs of the emitter and receiver units are preferably arranged in a staggered or alternating configuration such that the receiver units are separated from one another by an intermediate emitter unit. As a result, the likelihood that a receiver unit will erroneously detect the light beam emitted from the wrong emitter unit is significantly reduced. However, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated, including configurations where all of the emitter units are mounted to one of the mounting tubes (e.g.,tubes52a,54a) and all of the receiver units are mounted to the opposite mounting tube (e.g.,tubes52b,54b).
• Although theposition sensors56 have been described as photoelectric-type sensors, with eachposition sensor56 including an emitter unit and a receiver unit, it should be understood that other types and configurations of position sensors are also contemplate as falling within the scope of the present invention. For example, instead of having separate emitter and receiver units, in other embodiments of the invention, the emitter and receiver elements may be integrated into a single unit, with an optical reflector mounted opposite the integrated position sensor to complete the optical sensor circuit. Additionally, in lieu of photoelectric-type sensors, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may utilize other types of position sensors, including various types and configurations of laser sensors, fiber optic sensors, optical sensors, motion sensors, infrared sensors, thermal sensors, ultrasonic sensors, capacitive sensors, proximity sensors, or any other type of position sensor that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• As illustrated inFIG. 11, the sensorassembly mounting tubes52a,52band54a,54bextend about the outer perimeter of thesupport pad104 and are positioned directly above thesupport surface105. Theposition sensors56 are disposed at intermittent locations along the mountingtubes52a,52band54a,54b, preferably at uniform intervals, such that the longitudinal distance d_Lseparating theposition sensors56 associated with the mountingtubes52a,52bis approximately equal to the transverse distance d_Tseparating theposition sensors56 associated with the mountingtubes54a,54b. In this manner, the transverse beams of light B_Temitted/received by theposition sensors56 associated with the mountingtubes52a,52band the longitudinal beams of light B_Lemitted/received by theposition sensors56 associated with the mountingtubes54a,54bwill form the sensing grid G at a predetermined distance above and preferably substantially parallel to thesupport surface105.
• As should be appreciated, the longitudinal and transverse distances d_L, d_Tseparating theposition sensors56 may be increased/decreased to correspondingly vary the sensing density of the sensing grid G, which would in turn increase/decrease the sensing accuracy of the stationaryposition sensor assembly50. As should also be appreciated, the longitudinal and transverse distances d_L, d_Tseparating theposition sensors56 need not necessarily be equal to one another, but may instead take on different values to correspondingly vary the sensing density/accuracy along the longitudinal axis L relative to the sensing density/accuracy along transverse axis T. Additionally, although theposition sensors56 and the sensing grid G are illustrated as being positioned just above thesupport surface105, it should be understood that theposition sensors56 and the sensing grid G may alternatively be positioned at other predetermined elevations above thesupport surface105.
• As should be appreciated, when there is no obstruction present between respective pairs of the emitter and receiver units, the corresponding light beams B_T, B_Lwill remain unbroken and the receiver units will communicate a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating an uninterrupted sensor condition. However, when any of the light beams B_T, B_Lare broken by an obstruction (e.g., by the user's feet) the receiver units will communicate a signal to thecontrol panel28 indicating an interrupted sensor condition. Accordingly, theposition sensors56 are capable of detecting the presence or absence of the user's feet along the sensing grid G, and are likewise capable of determining the position and/or orientation of the user's feet relative to thebase unit22, the details of which will be discussed below.
• As indicated above, in one embodiment of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used in a manner similar to that of theadjustable sensor assembly24 to determine whether or not the user's response to a cue or signal satisfies a predetermined objective or goal. For example, theposition sensors56 may be used to determine whether or not the user has jumped or otherwise extended vertically beyond the sensing grid G, which for practical purposes would determine whether or not either of the user's feet have left thesupport surface105 at the appropriate time in response to a signal or cue. Theposition sensors56 may also be used to determine the approximate point in time in which the user's feet return to thesupport surface105. In this regard, theposition sensors56 may be used in manner similar to that of thepressure sensors190.
• In a further embodiment of the invention, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used to determine the position and/or orientation of the user's feet prior to, during, and/or after an activity, such as, for example, a jumping activity or a walking/running activity. With regard to a vertical jumping activity, immediately prior to initiation of a signal or cue instructing the user to jump off of thesupport surface105, theposition sensors56 may be used to determine the position and/or orientation of the user's feet by determining which of theposition sensors56 are indicating an interrupted condition (i.e., an obstruction of the light beams B_T, B_Lby the user's feet). The receiver units indicating an interrupted condition will communicate a signal to thecontrol panel28, with thecontrol panel28 in turn determining or “plotting” the position and/or orientation of the user's feet along the sensing grid G. Additionally, immediately after completion of the jump (i.e., when the user's feet return to the support surface105), theposition sensors56 may once again be used to determine or plot the position and/or orientation of the user's feet. In this manner, the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used to determine the overall efficiency of the user's vertical jump attempt. For example, if the user's feet are determined to be in approximately the same position and orientation immediately after the jump attempt as they were immediately prior to the jump attempt, the measured efficiency of the jump will be high. However, if the user's feet are in a different position and/or orientation, the measured efficiency of the jump will be comparatively low.
• With regard to a walking/running activity, plotting the position and orientation of the user's feet during a walking/running activity may provide useful feedback to measure and monitor walking/running mechanics. This may be particularly useful with regard to therapeutic applications to provide a therapist, trainer or other personnel with real time feedback regarding the positioning and orientation of the user's feet during a walking/running activity. It should be understood that the stationaryposition sensor assembly50 may be used in applications other than those specifically described above, including the use of multiple parallel sensor assemblies, and that the particular embodiments discussed herein are exemplary, it being understood that other applications are contemplated as falling within the scope of the present invention.
• Although theposition sensor assemblies24 and50 and the pressure sensitive pad orstrip108 have been described as being primarily used as a means to provide a signal or indication corresponding to the user's position relative to thesupport surface105, it should be understood that these elements may also be used as a means to measure parameters associated with the user's performance of various activities. For example, with regard to a jump rope simulation activity, theposition sensor assemblies24,50 and/or thepressure pad108 may be used to measure the jump speed, cadence or jump height of the user. This measurement may in turn be used to adjust the settings of the exercise device (e.g., speed or cadence at which thelight channels170 are activated/deactivated and/or the height of the sensor assembly24) to more closely match the capabilities of the user. Similarly, with regard to the activities of walking or running in place, theposition sensor assemblies24,50 and/or thepressure pad108 may likewise be used to measure parameters associated with walking or running (e.g., speed, distance, stride length, foot height, etc.), which may in turn be used to adjust the settings of the exercise device to more closely match the capabilities of the user. A similar arrangement may also be used in association with the vertical jumping activity.
• In a further embodiment of the invention, one or more of the exercise device embodiments illustrated and described above may include a closed loop feedback mode whereby the user would have the ability, if desired, to input their weight, the length of time they wish to jump, the cadence at which they would like to jump, how many calories they would like to burn, the height that they want to jump, and/or any other parameter or criteria relating to the user and/or to the activity of the user, all as a means of goal setting. The user would be able to select any one of the inputs, all of the inputs, or any combination of the inputs. In addition, the exercise device would have the ability to break down the total exercise time into smaller time segments whereby the desired speed and height might change from one exercise segment to another.
• Regardless of the inputs selected, the light channels below the user's feet will illuminate sequentially faster as the user jumps faster and slower as the user jumps slower. The light channels will illuminate sequentially as soon as the sensors indicate that the user's feet have left the jumping surface, thereby showing the virtual jump rope successfully passing beneath the user's feet. Should the user desire to merely jump indiscriminately at various cadences and heights and be timed as to how long the user has been exercising and be provided with feedback with regard to the selected exercise activity, the device will permit this as well. The user will start the device and jump at a selected cadence and height, either of which can be automatically changed by jumping at a cadence that is faster/slower and/or higher/lower, completely at the user's discretion. The device would then provide immediate feedback as to how fast they are jumping (in jumps per minute or JPMs), how high they are jumping (in inches or centimeters), how many calories per hour they are burning, how many total calories they have burned during the session, how long they have been exercising, and/or how long they have to jump to achieve their goal. In addition, an average cadence and average rope height will be calculated for the entire exercise session. If the user would like to merely count calories, they can also achieve this by simply jumping on the device.
• If preprogrammed goals are selected for speed and height, and those goals are being met, a green light will illuminate or another type of indicia will be activated with every successful jump, and the display will reflect the measured instantaneous speed and height. If one or both of the parameters are not being met (i.e., if the user is jumping too slow or not jumping high enough), a red light will illuminate or another type of indicia will be activated with every unsuccessful jump until the deficiency is remedied. For example, the display which illustrates the measured speed at which the user is jumping will flash repeatedly in the form of a flashing number if the user's cadence is too slow, and/or the display which illustrates the measured jump height will show a flashing number if the jump height is too low. In addition, an average cadence and average rope height will be calculated for the entire session. Also, one or more displays may show the percentage of jumps that have met or exceeded the speed goal and/or the percentage of jumps that have met or exceeded the height goal.
• If the user wishes to merely input the number of calories they would like to burn, they can input their weight, desired cadence and desired rope height and the device will calculate the time required to achieve this goal. The calculated time to meet the calorie goal will then be displayed and counted down. The device will still continuously calculate calories burned based on the actual exercise performed. If the user falls short of their calorie goal based on their activity at the end of the allotted time period, the time display will reset showing the amount of additional time that will be required based on an average of the activity level of the user throughout the duration of the original time period calculated. If the user does not select a cadence and rope height, the device will merely count calories based on the cadence and height of each jump and the time display will count up until the caloric goal is achieved. The calorie calculations will be estimated by data currently being collected through research that is being performed on the device and will take both cadence and rope height into consideration. In the absence of the user inputting their weight, all calorie calculations will be based on the assumption that the user weighs 150 pounds, which corresponds to the use weight standard in the exercise industry.
• Referring toFIGS. 12-19, shown therein areexercise devices800,900 and1000 according to further forms of the present invention. As will be discussed in greater detail below, theexercise devices800,900 and1000 include features that provide a workout to both the upper and lower body of the user. Theexercise device800 is generally comprised of a lower body base unit configured similar or identical to theexercise device20 illustrated and described above for providing a workout of the lower body, in combination with anupper body unit802 for simultaneously providing a workout of the upper body. Similarly, theexercise device900 is generally comprised of a lower body base unit configured similar or identical to theexercise device20 illustrated and described above for providing a workout of the lower body, in combination with anupper body unit902 for simultaneously providing a workout of the upper body. Theexercise device1000 is also generally comprised of a lower body base unit configured similar or identical to theexercise device20 illustrated and described above for providing a workout of the lower body, in combination with anupper body unit1002 for simultaneously providing a workout of the upper body.
• It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments of the invention, one or more of theexercise devices800,900 and1000 may include modified versions of the lowerbody base unit20. For example, in an alternative embodiment, the size of the footprint area of thesupport base22 which defines theupper support surface105 may be enlarged to provide a greater area for performing various user activities. Theposition sensor assembly24 may likewise be enlarged to avoid interference with user activities, or may be removed. Other changes, additions and/or modifications to the lowerbody base unit20, thesupport base22, theposition sensor assembly24, theadjustment mechanism26 and/or thecontrol panel28 are also contemplated. Additionally, theexercise devices800,900 and1000 need not necessarily include thehandrails500a,500b, and need not necessarily be configured to fold down into a collapsed configuration, as described above and illustrated inFIG. 10.
• Referring toFIG. 12, theupper body unit802 associated with theexercise device800 is generally comprised of asupport structure804 andload members806a,806bthat are operatively coupled to thesupport structure804. In the illustrated embodiment, thesupport structure804 is configured as a horizontal mounting bar or block that is mounted to thevertical support column160 or to any other portion of the lowerbody base unit20.
• Theload members806a,806bare preferably configured identical to one another and are centrally positioned relative to thevertical support column160 and laterally offset from one another by a distance d, which preferably corresponds to a distance equal to or somewhat greater than the average spacing between a user's arms or shoulders. However, other distances d are also contemplated. In one embodiment, theload members806a,806beach include a vertical beam orcolumn portion808 extending from thesupport structure804, a hook orcurved transition portion810 extending from thecolumn portion808, a flexibly elastic andresilient portion812 attached to the distal or free end of thehook810, and a ring orgripping portion814 attached to an end of the flexibly elastic andresilient portion812. Theload members806a,806bare preferably configured such that therings814 are positioned at a height h above theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22, which preferably corresponds to a height of the user's hands when the user's arms are in a vertically extended position. However, other heights h are also contemplated. Theload members806a,806bmay be stationarily mounted in a fixed position, or may be movably mounted and/or configured in a manner that allows for adjustment to the distance d between therings814 and/or the height h of therings814 above theupper support surface105. Such adjustment may provided via various types and configurations of adjustments mechanisms, and may be manually adjustable or may be automated and controlled via thecontrol panel28 and an actuator, such as, for example, an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or any other rotary or linear actuator that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• In one embodiment, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions812 are configured as flexible bands or straps that are formed of an elastomeric material capable of being stretched and elastically deformed as the user exerts an applied force, such as a pulling force, on therings814, and which resiliently reforms and returns toward a non-stretched or unstressed state upon release or reduction of the pulling force on therings814. As a pulling force is applied to therings814, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions812 are stretched from a first initial length l₁to a second length l₂, and returns toward the first initial length l₁upon release or reduction of the pulling force. The flexibly elastic/resilient portions812 may be formed of any material that is capable of being elastically deformed from an initial state to a deformed state, and resiliently reformed back toward the initial state. Such materials include, for example, rubber or rubber-like materials, polymeric or plastic materials, composite materials, metallic materials, shape-memory materials, including polymer-based and metallic-based shape-memory materials, or any other suitable elastic/resilient material that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• As should be appreciated, the user stands of theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22 and may perform any of the exercise activities described above in association with theexercise device20 to provide a workout of the lower body (e.g., jumping rope, walking/running in place, vertical jumping, etc.). While exercising the lower body, the user may grasp and pull on therings814 of theload members806a,806bto simultaneously provide a workout of the upper body. As should be appreciated, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions812 are loaded as a force is applied to therings814, which in turn resists movement of the user's arms as the user pulls on therings814. However, in other embodiments of the invention, theload members806a,806bmay be configured without the flexibly elastic/resilient portions812, thereby maintaining therings814 in a fixed position. In this embodiment, the user may grasp therings814 and pull himself/herself off of thesupport base22 while performing an exercise activity. In this manner, the weight of the user provides loading or resistance to workout the user's upper body, which is similar to performing chin-ups or other pull up exercises.
• Although theload members806a,806bhave been illustrated and described as having a particular configuration, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated. For example, instead of providing the flexibly elastic/resilient portion812, thevertical column portion808 and/or thehook portion810 may be formed of a flexibly elastic/resilient material such that theload member806a,806bflex or bend as the user pulls on therings814. In such embodiments, theload members806a,806bcould be configured as curved or arcuate-shaped rods or bars that flex or bend in a manner similar to the flexible bars or rods associated with a Bowflex™ home gym. Additionally, although theload members806a,806bare illustrated as includingrings814, other gripping devices are also contemplated for manual grasping by the user, including various types and configurations of handles, including devices configured similar to the ends of a jump rope.
• Referring toFIG. 13, theupper body unit902 associated with theexercise device900 is generally comprised of asupport structure904 andload members906a,906bthat are coupled to thesupport structure904. In the illustrated embodiment, thesupport structure904 has an L-shaped configuration, including avertical support910 mounted to thevertical support column160 or to any other portion of thesupport base22, ahorizontal support912 extending transversely from thevertical support910, a rearhorizontal bar914 mounted to thevertical support910, and a fronthorizontal bar916 mounted to thehorizontal support912. A pair of pulleys/sheaves oreyelets918 are mounted to the rearhorizontal bar914, and a pair of pulleys/sheaves oreyelets920 are mounted to the fronthorizontal bar916.
• Theload members906a,906bare preferably configured identical to one another and are laterally offset from one another by a distance d, which preferably corresponds to a distance equal to or somewhat greater than the average spacing between a user's arms or shoulders. However, other distances d are also contemplated. In one embodiment, theload members906a,906beach include a flexibly elastic andresilient element930 attached to thesupport base22, a rope orcable932 extending from the flexibly elastic/resilient element930 and wrapped about the rear and front pulleys/sheaves oreyelets918,920, and a ring orgripping portions934 attached to an end of thecable932. The length of thecable932 is preferably selected such that therings914 are positioned at a height h above theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22, which preferably corresponds to a height of the user's hands when the user's arms are in a vertically extended position. However, other heights h are also contemplated. Theload members906a,906bmay be stationarily mounted in a fixed position, or may be movably mounted and/or configured in a manner that allows for adjustment to the distance d between therings934 and/or the height h of therings934 above theupper support surface105. Such adjustment may provided via various types and configurations of adjustments mechanisms, and may be manually adjustable or may be automated and controlled via thecontrol panel28 and an actuator, such as, for example, an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or any other rotary or linear actuator that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• In one embodiment, the flexibly elastic/resilient elements930 are configured as coil springs, which may be formed of a metallic material or other types of elastic/resilient materials that are capable of being elastically deformed and expanded as the user exerts an applied force, such as a pulling force, on therings934, and which resiliently reforms and returns toward a contracted or unstressed state upon release or reduction of the pulling force on therings934. The coil springs930 may be formed of any suitable material including, for example, polymeric or plastic materials, composite materials, metallic materials, shape-memory materials, including polymer-based and metallic-based shape-memory materials, or any other suitable elastic/resilient material that would occur to one of skill in the art. As a pulling force is applied to therings934, the coil springs930 are stretched and expanded from a first initial length l₁to a second length l₂, and contract and return toward the first initial length l₁upon release or reduction of the pulling force.
• As should be appreciated, the user stands of theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22 and may perform any of the exercise activities described above in association with theexercise device20 to provide a workout of the lower body (e.g., jumping rope, walking/running in place, vertical jumping, etc.). While exercising the lower body, the user may grasp and pull on therings934 of theload members906a,906bto simultaneously provide a workout of the upper body. As should be appreciated, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions930 are expanded and are loaded as a force is applied to therings934, which in turn resists movement of the user's arms as the user pulls on therings934. However, in other embodiments of the invention, theload members906a,906bmay be configured without the flexibly elastic/resilient portions930, thereby maintaining therings934 in a fixed position. In this embodiment, the user may grasp therings934 and pull himself/herself off of thesupport base22 while performing an exercise activity. In this manner, the weight of the user provides loading or resistance to workout the user's upper body, which is similar to performing chin-ups or other pull up exercises. In still other embodiments of the invention, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions930 may be replaced with other types of resistance elements, including piston-type elements which provide resistance via an increase in fluid or air pressure as the user exerts an applied force, such as a pulling force, on therings934, and with the increased fluid or air pressure causing the resistance elements to return toward the initial state upon release or reduction of the pulling force on therings934. In other embodiments, or with one or more weights may be attached to the ends of thecables932 to provide gravitational resistance. If weights are used, a guide structure is preferably provided to guide the weights along a predetermined vertical path.
• Although theload members906a,906bhave been illustrated and described as having a particular configuration, it should be understood that other configurations are also contemplated. For example, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions or springs930 need not necessarily be mounted to thesupport base22, but may alternatively be mounted to thevertical support910 or to other portions of thesupport structure904. Additionally, it should be understood that the flexibly elastic/resilient portions or springs930 need not necessarily be mounted in a vertical orientation, but may instead be mounted in a horizontal or angled orientation. If the flexibly elastic/resilient portions or springs930 are mounted in a horizontal orientation, they may be integrated into thesupport base22. Additionally, the flexibly elastic/resilient portions or springs930 may be integrated with other portions of theexercise device900, including thevertical support column160 and/or thesupport structure904. Additionally, although theload members906a,906bare illustrated as includingrings934, other gripping devices are also contemplated for manual grasping by the user, including various types and configurations of handles, including devices configured similar to the ends of a jump rope.
• Referring not toFIGS. 14-19, shown therein is theexercise device1000 including the lowerbody base unit20 and theupper body unit1002. As indicated above, the lowerbody base unit20 is configured similar or identical to theexercise device20 illustrated and described above for providing a workout of the lower body. Theupper body unit1002 is configured to provide a simultaneous workout of the upper body, and is generally comprised of asupport structure1004, afirst load member1006, and asecond load member1008.
• In the illustrated embodiment, thesupport structure1004 generally includes aU-shaped support base1010, avertical support column1012 extending from a central region of theU-shaped support base1010, and ahorizontal support1014 extending transversely from thevertical support1012. Thesupport structure1004 may also be provided with angled gussets orribs1016 extending from the legs of theU-shaped support base1010 to thevertical support column1012 to provide additional strength and stability to thesupport structure1004. In one embodiment, thesupport structure1004 may be formed of tube steel, and may include tube portions that are assembled together and interconnected to form a rigid support structure. However, others types and configurations of thesupport structure1004 are also contemplated as would occur to one of skill in the art. In one embodiment, thesupport structure1004 is a stand-alone structure that need not necessarily be connected or attached to the lowerbody base unit20. In the illustrated embodiment, the lowerbody base unit20 is positioned within the inner region of theU-shaped support base1010, with thevertical support column1012 extending generally parallel with thevertical column160 of the lowerbody base unit20. However, in other embodiments, thesupport structure1004 may be attached or connected to thebase unit20.
• In the illustrated embodiment, the lowerbody base unit20 includes a number ofprotective panels1018 that extend vertically about the outer perimeter of thesupport base22 and theupper support surface105 to prevent the user from inadvertently or unintentionally kicking or contacting theposition sensor assembly24 and/or theadjustment mechanism26 to prevent damage to these devices or injury to the user. Theprotective panels1018 are formed of a transparent or translucent material that allows for the transmission of light therethrough to avoid interfering with the sensing capabilities of theposition sensor assembly26. Theprotective panels1018 may be supported by thesupport base22, the hand rails500a,500b, and/or thevertical column160. In other respects, the lowerbody base unit20 is configured similar or identical to theexercise device20 illustrated and described above.
• In the illustrated embodiment, theload members1006 and1008 are operatively coupled to and supported by thesupport structure1004, and more specifically thevertical support column1012. As will be discussed below, theload members1006 and1008 each include at least one elastic/resilient resistance element that is capable of being elastically deformed or transitioned from an initial state in response to exertion of an applied force, and which resiliently reforms or transitions back toward the initial state upon release or reduction of the applied force.
• Referring now toFIGS. 16-18, in the illustrated embodiment of the invention, thefirst load member1006 generally includes a flexibly elastic/resilient element1020, a substantiallyinelastic cable element1022, and an actuator element orbar1024 including a pair ofgripping portions1026. As will be discussed in greater detail below, a first end of the flexibly elastic/resilient element1020 is connected to thevertical support column1012. Additionally, theinelastic cable element1022 includes a first end attached to a mid-portion of theactuator bar1024, and an opposite second end having a first end portion connected to thevertical support column1012 and a second end portion connected to the free end of the elastic/resilient element1020.
• The grippingportions1026 associated with theactuator bar1024 are laterally offset from one another by a distance d (FIG. 14), which preferably corresponds to a distance equal to or somewhat greater than the average spacing between a user's arms or shoulders. However, other distances d are also contemplated. Additionally, theload member1006 is preferably configured such that thegripping portions1026 of theactuator bar1024 are positioned at a height h (FIG. 14) above theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22, which preferably corresponds to a height of the user's hands when the user's arms are in a vertically extended position. However, other heights h are also contemplated. Additionally, as will be discussed below theload member1006 and thevertical support column1012 include features that allow for adjustment to the height h of thegripping portions1026 above theupper support surface105 to accommodate users having different heights or vertical reaches. In the illustrated embodiment, these adjustment features are manually adjustable. However, automatic adjustment features are also contemplated, with adjustment to the height h of thegripping portions1026 being automated and controlled via thecontrol panel28 and an actuator, such as, for example, an electric, hydraulic or pneumatic motor, a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder, or any other rotary or linear actuator that would occur to one of skill in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the distance d between thegripping portions1026 is fixed. However, theactuator bar1024 may be modified to provide adjustment to the distance d between thegripping portions1026 to accommodate users having different physical attributes.
• In the illustrated embodiment, thesecond load member1008 generally includes a mountingelement1030, a flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 including first andsecond portions1034a,1034b, and a pair ofgripping portions1036 attached to the ends of the first andsecond portions1034a,1034b. As will be discussed in greater detail below, the mountingelement1030 is operatively connected to thevertical support column1012, and the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 is attached to and extends from the mountingelement1030. The lengths of the first andsecond portions1034a,1034bof the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 are preferably selected such that thegripping portions1036 are laterally offset or spread apart from one another by a distance which preferably corresponds to a distance equal to or somewhat greater than the average spacing between a user's arms or shoulders. Additionally, the mountingelement1030 is preferably coupled to thevertical support column1012 such that thegripping portions1036 are positioned at a height above theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22, which preferably corresponds to a height of the user's hands. However, other heights are also contemplated. Additionally, as will be discussed below, theload member1008 and thevertical support column1012 include features that allow for adjustment to the height of thegripping portions1036 above theupper support surface105 to accommodate users having different heights or reaches. In the illustrated embodiment, these adjustment features are manually adjustable. However, automatic adjustment features are also contemplated.
• Referring collectively toFIGS. 16-19, shown therein are further details and features of theupper body unit1002 associated with theexercise device1000, with the lowerbody base unit20 removed for clarity. As indicated above, theupper body unit1002 is generally comprised of asupport structure1004, afirst load member1006, and asecond load member1008. Additionally, thesupport structure1004 generally includes aU-shaped support base1010, avertical support column1012, and ahorizontal support1014.
• As also indicated above, thefirst load member1006 generally includes a flexibly elastic/resilient element1020, a substantiallyinelastic cable element1022, and anactuator bar1024 including grippingportions1026 at either end of theactuator bar1024. As shown most clearly inFIGS. 17-19, the flexibly elastic/resilient element1020 includes afirst end portion1020athat is operatively coupled to thevertical support column1012, and asecond end portion1020bthat is operatively coupled to theinelastic cable element1022. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexibly elastic/resilient element1020 is configured as a flexible or supple band or strap that is formed of an elastomeric material capable of being stretched and elastically deformed from an initial state to an elastically deformed state upon exertion of an applied force, and which is also capable of resiliently reforming and returning toward the initial state upon release or reduction of the applied force. Such material include, for example, rubber or rubber-like materials, latex, polymeric or plastic materials, composite materials, metallic materials, shape-memory materials, including polymer-based and metallic-based shape-memory materials, or any other suitable elastic/resilient material that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• In the illustrated embodiment, eachend portion1020a,1020bof theband1020 is provided with aconnection device1040. As most clearly shown inFIG. 17, in one embodiment, theconnection device1040 includes alink1042 attached to eachend portion1020a,1020bof theband1020, and aclip1044 connected to thelink1042. Theconnection link1040 includes a first end loop (not shown) which is inserted through an opening in eitherend portion1020a,1020bof theband1020, and a second end loop which receives a looped portion of theconnection clip1044. Theconnection clip1044 includes a spring-loaded wall which may be inwardly compressed to allow for insertion or removal of a device into the interior of theconnection clip1044. Theconnection clip1044 therefore provides a quick and simple arrangement for releasable connecting either end of theband1020 to other structures or devices. Although a particular type ofconnection device1040 has been illustrated and described for use with theband1020, it should be understood that other types of connection devices and connection arrangements are also contemplated.
• In one embodiment of the invention, thevertical support column1012 is provided with multiple attachment or connection locations for coupling theend portion1020aof theband1020 and an end portion of theinelastic cable element1022 to thevertical support column1012. In the illustrated embodiment, achain1050 is provided which includesmultiple chain links1052. Thechain1050 is attached to thevertical support column1012 by way of upper andlower mounting plates1054. The mountingplates1054 may be welded or fastened to thevertical support column1012, and thechain1050 may be attached connected to theend plates1054 by way of a bolt orfastener1056 which extends through thelinks1052 at either end of thechain1050. As should be appreciated, theindividual chain links1052 provide multiple attachment or connection points along a length of thevertical support column1012. Although achain1050 has been illustrated and described for providing multiple attachment or connection locations, it should be understood that other devices and arrangements are also contemplated as would occur to one of ordinary skill in the art.
• Referring toFIGS. 17-19, theinelastic cable element1022 includes a first end portion is1022aconnected to thevertical support column1012 via the connection or attachment points provided by thelinks1052 of thechain1050, and asecond end portion1022bthat is operatively coupled to theactuator bar1024. In the illustrated embodiment, theinelastic cable element1022 is configured as a metallic cable that is substantially inelastic to prevent stretching or deformation when pulled to a taut state. In one embodiment, theinelastic cable element1022 is configured as a multi-filament cable, such as, for example, an aircraft cable. Theinelastic cable element1022 may include a protective sheath or covering to minimize wear and prolong the useful life of thecable element1022 and the devices which come into contact thecable element1022. However, it should be understood that other types of substantially inelastic elements are also contemplated for use in association with the present invention, including non-metallic cables or other elongate elements, such as, for example, belts, ropes, and chains, or any other suitable elongate element that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• As shown most clearly inFIG. 17, theend portion1022aof theinelastic cable element1022 includes afirst cable segment1060 that is connected or attached to one of thelinks1052 of thechain1050, and asecond cable segment1062 that is connected or attached to theend portion1020bof the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020. As shown inFIGS. 17 and18, thefirst cable segment1060 is shown in a slacked or non-tensioned state. However, when the user pulls on thegripping portions1026 of theactuator bar1024, the applied pulling force is transmitted through theinelastic cable1022 and stretches the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020. Although the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020 provides a level of resistance to the pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026, theactuator bar1024 is allowed to be displaced in the direction of arrow A. As theactuator bar1024 is displaced in the direction of arrow A and the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020 continues to stretch, the slack in thefirst cable segment1060 is taken out until thefirst cable segment1060 is transitioned to a taut or tensioned state. (FIG. 19). Due to the inelastic nature of thecable element1022 and the taut state of thecable segment1060, any additional pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026 will not result in any further stretching of the elastic/resilient band1020 or any further displacement of theactuator bar1024.
• In the illustrated embodiment, the first andsecond segments1060 and1062 of thecable1022 are formed as separate cables that are interconnected or joined together via a number of clamps or bands. However, in other embodiments, the first andsecond cable segments1060 and1062 may be provided by a single portion of theinelastic cable1022. For example, thesecond segment1062 of thecable1022 may be provided as a looped portion of thecable1022. Additionally, an end portion of thefirst cable segment1060 is looped back on itself to form anend loop1064 which in maintained by a number of clamps or bands. Similarly, an end portion of thesecond cable segment1062 is looped back on itself to form anend loop1066 which in maintained by a number of clamps or bands. In the illustrated embodiment, thefirst cable segment1060 is coupled to thevertical support column1012 by aconnection clip1070 that passes through theend loop1064 and a selected one of thelinks1052 of thechain1050. Theconnection clip1070 may be configured similar to theconnection clip1044 described above, or may take on other configurations. Additionally, thesecond cable segment1062 is coupled to theend portion1020bof the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020 by aconnection link1072 that passes through theend loop1066 and the inner region of theconnection clip1044. However, it should be understood that other types of connection devices and connection arrangements are also contemplated for coupling of theend portion1022aof thecable1022 to thevertical support column1012 and the flexibly elastic/resilient band1020.
• As shown inFIGS. 16,18 and19, theinelastic cable element1022 runs along the upper portion of thevertical support column1012 and is wrapped around a pair of pulleys/sheaves oreyelets1076,1078 mounted to thehorizontal support1014. In the illustrated embodiment, thehorizontal support1014 includes a pair of spaced apartplates1080a,1080bwhich define ayoke1082 within which the pulleys/sheaves1076,1078 are mounted. Theend portion1022bofinelastic cable element1022 is coupled to a mid-portion or central region of theactuator bar1024 by way of aconnection link1084 which passes through anend loop1086 formed by theend portion1022bof thecable1022 and an opening defined by a flange oreyelet1088 extending from a mid-portion of theactuator bar1024. As indicated above, theactuator bar1024 includes a pair ofgripping portions1026 arranged at either end of theactuator bar1024. In the illustrated embodiment, the grippingportions1026 are configured as handles or bars which are angled downwardly relative to the mid-portion of theactuator bar1024. The ends of the handles are each provided with a spherical-shaped ball to inhibit the user's hands from sliding off of thegripping portions1026. Although thegripping portions1026 are illustrated and described as having a particular configuration, it should be understood that other types and configurations of gripping devices are also contemplated for manual grasping by the user, including rings or various types of handles that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• As indicated above, thesecond load member1008 generally includes a mountingelement1030, a flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 including first andsecond portions1034a,1034b, and a pair ofgripping portions1036. The mountingelement1030 is operatively coupled to thevertical support column1012, the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 is attached to and extends from the mountingelement1030, and thegripping portions1036 are attached to each end of the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032. As shown inFIG. 15, in the illustrated embodiment, the mountingelement1030 is configured as a plate or block that is releasably engagable to a generallyflat mounting surface1100 defined by thevertical support column1012. The mountingsurface1100 may be provided with a number of openings orapertures1102 positioned at multiple vertical locations along the height of thevertical support column1012. The openings orapertures1102 are sized to receive pins or protrusions (not shown) extending from the mountingplate1030 to releasably attach the mountingplate1030 to thevertical support column1012 at a select height above theupper support surface105 of thesupport base22. In order to maintain the mountingplate1030 in engagement with thevertical support column1012, the mountingplate1030 may be provided with a magnet (not shown), with at least the wall of thevertical support column1012 defining the mountingsurface1100 formed of steel to magnetically couple the mountingplate1030 to thevertical support column1012. The mountingplate1030 may also be provided with a passage1104 extending therethrough in a side-to-side direction and sized to receive the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 therein. The passage1104 may be provided with an open back to facilitate lateral insertion of the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 into the passage1104 to attach the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 to the mounting plate.
• In one embodiment, the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 is provided as a single-piece strap or strand, with the first andsecond portions1034a,1034bof the strand extending from either side of the mountingplate1030. However, it should be understood that the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 may be provided as separate pieces which define first andsecond strand portions1034a,1034b. In the illustrated embodiment, the flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 is configured as a flexible or supple tube or strand formed of an elastomeric material that is capable of being stretched and elastically deformed from an initial state to an elastically deformed state upon exertion of an applied force, and which is also capable of resiliently reforming and returning toward the initial state upon release or reduction of the applied force. The flexibly elastic/resilient element1032 may be formed of any material that is capable of being elastically deformed from an initial state to a deformed state, and resiliently reformed back toward the initial state. Such materials include, for example, rubber or rubber-like materials, latex materials, polymeric or plastic materials, composite materials, metallic materials, shape-memory materials, including polymer-based and metallic-based shape-memory materials, or any other suitable elastic/resilient material that would occur to one of skill in the art. In the illustrated embodiment, the grippingportions1036 have a ring configuration. However, other gripping devices are also contemplated for manual grasping by the user, including various types and configurations of handles, including devices configured similar to the ends of a jump rope.
• Having described the elements and features associated with theupper body unit1002 of theexercise device1000, reference will now be made to operation and use of the lowerbody base unit20 and theload member1006 of theupper body unit1002 by the user according to one embodiment of the invention. As discussed in detail above, the lowerbody base unit20 includes asupport base22 defining anupper support surface105, aposition sensor assembly24, andadjustment mechanism26 for adjusting the vertical position of theposition sensor assembly24, and acontrol panel28.
• The lowerbody base unit20 further includes a plurality of light sources132 (FIGS. 5-7) which light discrete portions or regions of theupper support surface105 to elicit a response or activity from the user (i.e., walking, running, jumping, etc.) to provide a workout of the lower body. Thecontrol panel28 is in communication with the plurality oflight sources132 and activates/deactivates thelight sources132 to generate the discrete lighted regions on thesupport surface105. In one embodiment, the discrete lighted regions comprise discrete light bands extending across thesupport surface105 and offset from one another along an axis, with thecontrol panel28 communicating with thelight sources132 to sequentially turn the discrete light bands off and on in a direction along the axis to simulate a jump rope passing beneath a user's feet. As the virtual jump rope approaches the user, the user jumps into the air to allow the virtual jump rope to pass beneath the user's feet.
• In another embodiment, the discrete lighted regions comprise at least two discrete zones of light, with the first light zone extending over a left half of thesupport surface105 and the second light zone extending over a right half of thesupport surface105, and with thecontrol panel28 communicating with thelight sources132 to activate and deactivate the light zones. As the light zones are activated/deactivated, the user is cued or prompted to raise or lower his or her foot corresponding to the activated/deactivated light zone. It should be understood that thecontrol panel28 may be programmed to activate/deactivate thelight sources132 in a manner which lights other discrete portions or regions of theupper support surface105 to elicit other user responses or activities to provide a workout of the lower body.
• As also discussed above, theposition sensor assembly24 includes at least two position sensors202 (FIGS. 1-6) having sensing paths that are arranged along a sensing plane relative to theupper support surface105, and with thecontrol panel28 communicating with theposition sensors202 to detect the presence of the user along the sensing plane. Theposition sensor assembly24 may therefore be used to provide real time feedback to the user to verify the user's performance of various user activities, including walking or running in place, jumping over a virtual jump rope, or any other lower body activity that would occur to one of skill in the art.
• While performing an activity on thebase unit20 to work out the lower body, the user may also grasp the gripping portions or handles1026 of theactuator bar1024 and exert an applied force, such as a pulling force, onto theactuator bar1024 to simultaneously work out the upper body. As the user pulls down on theactuator bar1024 in the direction of arrow A (or in other directions), the applied force is transmitted through theinelastic cable1022, which in turn stretches and elastically deforms the elastic/resilient band1020. Upon release or reduction of the applied force to thegripping portions1026, the elastic/resilient band1020 resiliently reforms and returns toward the initial state. As should be appreciated, as the user progressively applies a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026, the elastic/resilient band1020 continues to stretch and resistance to the applied pulling force correspondingly increases. In other words, the resistive force generated by the elastic/resilient band1020 increases as the user continues to pull down on thegripping portions1026. Additionally, as the pulling force is applied to thegripping portions1026, the elastic/resilient band1020 is stretched from a first initial length l₁to a second length l₂, which permits displacement of theactuator bar1024 in the direction of arrow A or in other directions to the position shown inFIG. 19. Upon release or reduction of the pulling force on thegripping portions1026, the elastic/resilient band1020 resiliently reforms and returns toward the first initial length l₁, which in turn displaces theactuator bar1024 in an upward direction opposite arrow A to the initial position shown inFIG. 18.
• As shown most clearly inFIG. 17, when the elastic/resilient band1022 is in the initial, non-stretched state (with theactuator bar1024 in the initial position shown inFIG. 18), thecable segment1060 of theinelastic cable element1022 is in a slackened or non-tensioned state. In the slackened or non-tensioned state, thecable segment1060 permits stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 in response to application of a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026. Stretching of theband1020 allows displacement of theactuator bar1024 in the direction of arrow A, which in turn allows downward displacement of the user's hands and arms as the user applies a downward force onto the grippingportions1026. Progressively increasing the pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026 continues to stretch theband1020, which results in removal of the slack from thecable segment1060. Once the slack in the cable segment is completely removed, thecable segment1060 is transitioned to a tensioned or taut state, which prevents further stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020. Thecable segment1060 therefore functions as a blocking element to limit stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 to a predetermined level. Thecable segment1060 also prevents overstretching of theband1020, which could otherwise result in failure of theband1020 and potential injury to the user.
• When thecable segment1060 is in the slackened or non-taut state, application of a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026 allows stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020. However, once the cable segment is transitioned to the taut state, thecable segment1060 will prevent further stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 beyond the predetermined level of deformation. At this point, any additional pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026 will not result in further displacement of theactuator bar1024, and the user's hands and arms will be maintained in position, even as the user continues to apply a downward pulling force onto the grippingportions1026. As a result, the user may pull himself/herself off of thesupport surface105 of thesupport base22 while performing an exercise activity. In this manner, the weight of the user provides loading or resistance to workout the user's upper body, which is similar to performing chin-ups or other pull up exercises.
• Although thecable segment1060 has been illustrated and described as a blocking element to limit stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 to a predetermined level, it should be understood that other features may be included to limit stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 to a predetermined level. For example, a block could be attached to thevertical support column1012 or thehorizontal support1014, and a stop element could be attached to theinelastic cable1022. As should be appreciated, application of a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026 would allow stretching of theband1020 and displacement of theactuator bar1024 until the stop element abuts the block attached to thevertical support column1012 or thehorizontal support1014. Such abutment would in turn prevent further stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020, and thereby limit stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020 to a predetermined level. As should also be appreciated, the position of the block and/or the position of the stop element could be varied to corresponding vary the point at which the stop element abuts the block, which would in turn adjust the predetermined level of stretching and elastic deformation of theband1020.
• As indicated above, thelinks1052 of thechain1050 provide multiple points of attachment for connecting theend portion1022aof theband1020 and the free end of thecable segment1060 to thevertical support column1012. As should be appreciated, connection of theend portion1022aof theband1020 to a select one of thechain links1052 correspondingly positions thegripping portions1026 of theactuator bar1024 at a select height h above the support surface105 (FIG. 14). As should also be appreciated, the height h of thegripping portions1026 may be varied by connecting theend portion1022aof theband1020 to adifferent chain link1052. In this manner, the height h of thegripping portions1026 may be selected to correspond to the particular height or vertical reach of the user. Additionally, connection of the free end of thecable segment1060 to a select one of thechain links1052 correspondingly determines the lowest position or height of thegripping portions1026 of theactuator bar1024 when thecable segment1060 is transitioned to the tensioned or taut state shown inFIG. 19. As should be appreciated, the lowest position of thegripping portions1026 may be varied by connecting the free end of thecable segment1060 to adifferent chain link1052.
• Although the illustrated embodiment of theupper body unit1002 utilizes a single elastic/resilient element1020, it should be understood that two or more elastic/resilient elements1020 may be coupled between thevertical support column1012 and theinelastic cable1022 to provide variable levels of resistance to the pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026 by the user. Additionally, it should be understood that a set of elastic/resilient elements1020 having different levels of elasticity may be provided for use in association with theupper body unit1002, with one of the elastic/resilient elements1020 selected to provide a particular level of resistance to the pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026. Furthermore, although the elastic/resilient element1020 illustrated and described above is configured as a flexible band or strap, it should be understood that other types of elastic/resilient elements are also contemplated for use in association with theupper body unit1002. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the elastic/resilient element1020 may be configured as a spring, such as a coil spring, that is expanded upon application of a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026. In another alternative embodiment, the elastic/resilient element1020 may be configured as a flexible rod or bar that is bent or flexed to an arcuate configuration upon application of a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026. In a further alternative embodiment, the elastic/resilient element1020 may be configured as a piston-type element which provides resistance via an increase in fluid or air pressure as the user exerts a pulling force onto the grippingportions1026, with the increased fluid or air pressure causing the resistance elements to return toward an initial state upon release or reduction of the pulling force. In another alternative embodiment, one or more weights may be attached to thecable1022 to provide gravitational resistance to a pulling force applied to thegripping portions1026. If weights are used, a guide structure is preferably provided to guide the weights along a predetermined vertical path.
• While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in the drawings and foregoing description, the same is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive in character, it being understood that only the preferred embodiments have been shown and described and that all changes and modifications that come within the spirit of the invention are desired to be protected.

Claims (20)

1. An exercise device for simultaneously working out the upper and lower body of a user, comprising:

an upper body unit configured to work out the upper body of the user, said upper body unit including a support structure and at least one load member, said load member including at least one elastic and resilient element connected to said support structure, said load member including a pair of gripping portions configured to be manually grasped by the user and coupled to said elastic and resilient element, wherein said elastic and resilient element is elastically transitioned from an initial state to an elastically deformed state upon application of a pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user, and wherein a reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said elastic and resilient element from said elastically deformed state back toward said initial state; and

a lower body base unit configured to work out the lower body of the user, said lower body base unit including a support base defining a support surface and positioned adjacent said upper body unit so that the user can manually grasp said gripping portions of said load member while standing upon said support surface, said lower body base unit including a plurality of light sources configured to generate discrete lighted regions on said support surface, and a controller in communication with said plurality of light sources to activate and deactivate said discrete lighted regions.

2. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said elastic and resilient element comprises a flexible band, and wherein said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions stretches said flexible band from an initial length to an elastically deformed stretched length, and wherein said reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said flexible band from said stretched length back towards said initial length.

3. The exercise device ofclaim 2, wherein said flexible band is formed of an elastomeric material.

4. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said upper body unit further includes:

an inelastic element coupled between said at least one elastic and resilient element and said pair of gripping portions; and

a blocking element associated with said inelastic element, said blocking element configured to permit a predetermined level of elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element in response to said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user, said blocking element configured to prevent further elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element beyond said predetermined level in response to application of an increased pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user.

5. The exercise device ofclaim 4, wherein said inelastic element comprises a cable including a first portion coupled between said at least one elastic and resilient element and said pair of gripping portions, said first portion of said cable configured to transmit said pulling force from said gripping portions to said elastic and resilient element to provide said predetermined level of elastic deformation; and

wherein said blocking element comprises a second portion of said cable connected to said support structure, said second portion of said cable having a slackened state to permit said predetermined level of elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element, said second portion of said cable being pulled to a taut state to prevent further elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element beyond said predetermined level.

6. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said support structure includes multiple points of attachment offset from one another along a length of said support structure, said at least one elastic and resilient element releasably connected to a select one of said multiple points of attachment.

7. The exercise device ofclaim 6, wherein releasable connection of said at least one elastic and resilient element to said select one of said multiple points of attachment correspondingly positions said gripping portions at a select height above said support surface, and wherein releasable connection of said at least one elastic and resilient element to a different one of said multiple points of attachment correspondingly positions said gripping portions at a different height above said support surface.

8. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said elastic and resilient element comprises a spring, and wherein said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions expands said spring from an initial length to an elastically deformed expanded length, and wherein said reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said spring from said expanded length back towards said initial length.

9. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said elastic and resilient element comprises a flexible rod, and wherein said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions bends said flexible rod from an initial state to an elastically deformed flexed state having an arcuate configuration, and wherein said reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said flexible rod from said flexed state back towards said initial state.

10. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said discrete lighted regions comprise discrete light bands extending across said support surface and offset from one another along an axis, said controller communicating with said plurality of light sources to sequentially activate and deactivate said discrete light bands in a direction along said axis to simulate a jump rope passing beneath a user's feet.

11. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said discrete lighted regions comprise at least two discrete zones of light, a first of said two discrete zones of light extending over a left half of said support surface, a second of said two discrete zones of light extending over a right half of said support surface, said controller in communication with said plurality of light sources to activate and deactivate said first and second discrete zones of light.

12. The exercise device ofclaim 1, wherein said support surface is at least partially formed of a material that permits transmission of light therethrough; and

wherein said light sources are configured and positioned to transmit light through said support surface to provide said plurality of discrete light bands extending across said support surface.

13. The exercise device ofclaim 1, further comprising at least two position sensors defining sensing paths arranged along a sensing plane located above said support surface, said at least two position sensors adapted to detect a presence of the user along said sensing plane.

14. An exercise device for simultaneously working out the upper and lower body of a user, comprising:

an upper body unit configured to work out the upper body of the user, said upper body unit including a support structure and at least one load member, said load member including at least one elastic and resilient element connected to said support structure, said load member including a pair of gripping portions configured to be manually grasped by the user and coupled to said elastic and resilient element, wherein said elastic and resilient element is elastically transitioned from an initial state to an elastically deformed state upon application of a pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user, and wherein a reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said elastic and resilient element from said elastically deformed state back toward said initial state; and

a lower body base unit configured to work out the lower body of the user, said lower body base unit including a support base defining a support surface and positioned adjacent said upper body unit so that the user can manually grasp said gripping portions of said load member while standing upon said support surface, said lower body base unit including at least two position sensors having sensing paths arranged along a sensing plane relative to said support surface, said at least two position sensors adapted to detect a presence of a user along said sensing plane, and a controller in communication with said at least two position sensors to determine a position of the user relative to said sensing plane.

15. The exercise device ofclaim 14, wherein said elastic and resilient element comprises a flexible band, and wherein said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions stretches said flexible band from an initial length to an elastically deformed stretched length, and wherein said reduction in said pulling force resiliently reforms said flexible band from said stretched length back towards said initial length.

16. The exercise device ofclaim 14, wherein said upper body unit further includes:

an inelastic element coupled between said at least one elastic and resilient element and said pair of gripping portions; and

a blocking element associated with said inelastic element, said blocking element configured to permit a predetermined level of elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element in response to said application of said pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user, said blocking element configured to prevent further elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element beyond said predetermined level in response to application of an increased pulling force onto said gripping portions by the user.

17. The exercise device ofclaim 16, wherein said inelastic element comprises a cable including a first portion coupled between said at least one elastic and resilient element and said pair of gripping portions, said first portion of said cable configured to transmit said pulling force from said gripping portions to said elastic and resilient element to provide said predetermined level of elastic deformation; and

wherein said blocking element comprises a second portion of said cable connected to said support structure, said second portion of said cable having a slackened state to permit said predetermined level of elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element, said second portion of said cable being pulled to a taut state to prevent further elastic deformation of said elastic and resilient element beyond said predetermined level.

18. The exercise device ofclaim 14, wherein said at least two position sensor are vertically adjustable relative to said support surface to correspondingly vary a height of said sensing plane above said support surface.

19. The exercise device ofclaim 18, further comprising:

a support column;

a mounting structure coupled to said support column and adapted to support said at least two position sensors; and

an adjustment mechanism coupled between said support column and said mounting structure, said adjustment mechanism adapted to vary said height of said sensing plane above said support surface.

20. The exercise device ofclaim 14, wherein said sensing plane is defined by a first group of said position sensors defining sensing paths arranged generally along a first axis, and a second group of said position sensors defining sensing paths arranged generally along a second axis transverse to said first axis.

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