Patent ID: 9610475
Date: 2017-04-04
CPC Classifications: A63B

Claim:
1. A linear motion synchronizing mechanism for an exercise machine having elongated first and second rocker arms that pivot with respect to each other about a first pivot axis, the linear motion synchronizing mechanism comprising: a body that is configured to move along a linear frame member of the exercise machine, the linear frame member extending along a linear axis that is perpendicular to the first pivot axis, wherein the body comprises a first roller supporting member and an opposing second roller supporting member; a hub on the body, the hub being configured to pivotally couple the first and second rocker arms to the body such that pivoting of the first and second rocker arms with respect to each other causes the body to move in a first direction along the linear axis and such that opposite pivoting of the first and second rocker arms with respect to each other causes the body to move in an opposite, second direction along the linear axis; a first roller retained on the first roller supporting member and a second roller retained on the opposing second roller supporting member, wherein the first and second rollers are configured to roll along opposite sides of the linear frame member as the body moves in the first and second directions; and a tensioner that applies a tensioning force between the first roller supporting member and second roller supporting member so that compression forces are applied on the first and second rollers, the compression forces causing the first and second rollers to mechanically resist pivoting of the first and second rocker arms with respect to each other about the first pivot axis.