Patent ID: 6905441
Filing Date: 2005-06-14
Classification: A63B

Abstract:
1. A simulated stair climbing-type exercise apparatus comprising: a stationary frame adapted for placement on a horizontal surface; a first pedal assembly and a second pedal assembly, each said pedal assembly including a bracket, a pedal having a longitudinal axis secured to said bracket, a first and a second support roller rotatably secured to said bracket such that said second support roller is perpendicular to said pedal axis and said first support roller is parallel to said first support roller and located between said second support roller and said pedal; a resistance force mechanism secured to said frame; a transmission including a pair of one way clutches for directly connecting said first pedal assembly and said second pedal assembly to said resistance force means such that said resistance force mechanism is effective to apply a resistance force opposing said first pedal assembly and said second pedal assembly movement in a downward direction; a first flexible member connecting said first pedal assembly to said one of said pair of one way clutches and a second flexible member connecting said second pedal assembly to said other of said pair of one way clutches; and a first and a second generally vertical track member secured to said frame each having a first and a second vertical surfaces generally parallel and longitudinally spaced apart, wherein each said first support roller and said second support roller are in general contact with said first and said second vertical surfaces of said first and second track members respectively such that said first and said second pedal assemblies can move in a generally vertical reciprocating motion and said first pedal and said second pedal are maintained generally parallel to a predetermined plane throughout said reciprocating motion between an upper position and a lower position.