Load wheel for a self-propelled exercise device
AssigneePT Motion Works, Inc.
InventorsBrent C. Teal, Bryan L. Pate
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A rotational bearing has an outer surface and an outer layer attached to the outer surface of the bearing by overmolding, bonding or mechanical fasteners. The outer layer has an outer surface which rotatably engages a bearing surface of a track along which the bearing device is adapted to travel, and is of a material softer than the material of the track bearing surface, such as a polymer or a relatively soft metal. In one example, the bearing is rotatably attached to a foot link carrying a foot engaging platform of a human powered conveyance or exercise system.
Claims20
A drive-train system for a self-propelled exercise device, comprising:
- at least one elongated guide track having a bearing surface;
- a foot link associated with a foot engaging platform;
- and
- at least one load wheel rotatably connected to the foot link and configured for reciprocating movement along the guide track;
- the at least one load wheel comprising a rotational bearing having an outer surface and an outer layer of a first material secured to the outer surface and rotatably engaged with the bearing surface of the track, the bearing surface being of a second material and the first material being softer than the second material.
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 front end, a rear end, a foot receiving portion defined thereupon disposed between said front and rear ends, and at least one load wheel rotatably coupled to said front end;
- a coupler assembly which is in mechanical communication with said first pivot axis and with a rear end of each of said first and second foot links, said coupler assembly being operative to direct said rear ends of said foot links in an arcuate path of travel;
- and
- at least one elongated guide track coupled to the frame and to said at least one load wheel, said guide track comprising a bearing surface and being operative to direct said at least one load wheel along said bearing surface in a reciprocating path of travel,
- wherein said at least one load wheel includes a rotational bearing having an outer surface and an outer layer of a first material secured to the outer surface and rotatably engaged with said bearing surface of said guide track, said bearing surface being of a second material and the first material being softer than the second material.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.