Patent ID: 6152855
Filing Date: 2000-11-28
Classification: A61H

Abstract:
A portable in-bed exercise machine, to maintain/strengthen muscle groups used in performing normal human functional activities, and for exercising while sitting or reclining in a bed, essentially comprising:a machine base, having means for easy movement between sites;a machine frame attached to said machine base;a force source attached to said machine frame;an assembly having force arms which incorporate support of an exerciser's extremities against gravitational forces, and handles used by exerciser to initiate and maintain power to the exercise machine, said assembly being also attached to said machine frame and said handles having automatic shut off switches, triggered by releasing one's grip of said handle;said force source being capable of providing any force-time profile to provide concentric and eccentric closed kinetic chain exercise of any duration;said machine flame having a means of quick, safe and secure attachment to a bed, wherein said bed and said machine frame become an integrated unit and form a closed force loop during exercise periods;said bed having sufficient strength to function within said closed force loop and having structural features to permit secure attachment with said machine frame;wherein said integrated unit permits application of forces up to or above body weight without damage to said integrated unit's components or danger to an exerciser; anda programmable control system, which regulates action of said exercise machine to allow bilateral, unilateral, and reciprocal exercise at forces adjustable over a range of forces under exercise regimens which simulate muscle action used in performing normal human functional activities, and can act in a bio-feedback mode to control said exercise machine.