Self-propelled exercise device
OwnerLarry Millerinventor
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A self-propelled exercise device such as a bicycle includes a frame having a drive wheel rotatably supported thereupon. The bicycle includes a first and a second foot link which are powered by the user. A coupler assembly directs the first end of each foot link in an arcuate path of travel, and a foot link guide directs the second end of each foot link in a reciprocating path of travel. A power transfer linkage is in mechanical communication with the coupler assembly and with the drive wheel. When the device is in use, a user's foot disposed upon the foot link travels in an elliptical path of travel and provides power to the foot link. This power is transferred to the drive wheel by the power transfer linkage so as to propel the bicycle.
Claims15
A self-propelled exercise device comprising:
- a frame having a drive wheel rotatably supported thereupon, and a first pivot axis defined thereupon;
- a first and a second foot link, each having a foot receiving portion defined thereupon;
- a coupler assembly which is in mechanical communication with said first pivot axis, and with a first end of each of said first and second foot links, said coupler assembly being operative to direct said first ends of said foot links in an arcuate path of travel;
- a foot link guide supported by said frame, said guide being operable to engage a second end of each of said foot links, and to direct said second ends along a reciprocating path of travel;
- a power transfer linkage in mechanical communication with said coupler assembly, and with said drive wheel;
- whereby when the first end of one of said foot links travels in said reciprocal path and the second end of that foot link travels in said arcuate path, a user's foot supported thereupon travels in a generally elliptical path of travel, and said power transfer linkage transfers power from said coupler assembly to said drive wheel so as to supply propulsive power thereto.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.