MOBILE EXERCISE APPARATUS

Abstract: This invention is a mobile exercising apparatus which promotes cardiovascular exercise yet minimizes impact to critical joints. A frame supports of pair of reciprocating members (40) which are displaced generally horizontally (100) along the frame at one end, yet reciprocate in a circular motion (102) at the other through a coupling system attached to the frame. Structure is included which orients the foot of the user at a preferred acute angular orientation and permits each foot to move in a generally elliptical path (102) during exercise, and drive a wheel (56) whereby propelling the apparatus. This allows simulation of walking or running without impact. The device may include linkage to facilitate a corresponding upper body exercise involving movement of the arm in which case each hand of the user is displaced along an arcuate path.

Description: MOBILE EXERCISE APPARATUS The present invention relates to a human powered mobile exercise device. More particular, the invention enables the user to move his feet in an ovate or near elliptic pattern driving at least one wheel of a mobile exercise apparatus. Running has long been a popular form of exercise. However, many cannot tolerate the impact loading that occurs on heel strike with the ground. Therefore, the need exists for a mobile exercise device which simulates the motion and feel of ninning without the impact. Prior art human powered mobile exercise devices do not allow the user to move through a natural pattem that simulates running. These devices force the user to move his legs primarily through a vertical pumping motion such as in stair climbing and do not simulate the foot motion of running. See, for example, U.S. Patents Nos. 4,053,173; 4,379,566; and 4,456,276. While prior art stationary exercise devices exist which do allow an ovate or near elliptic foot motion (see, for example, U.S. patents Nos. 5,242,343; 5,299,993; 5,383,829; and 5,423,729), such devices cannot be readily modified to accommodate human powered mobile exercise because of their inherent length and mechanical configuration. Further, prior art stationary exercise devices do not allow control of foot pedal angle during the ovate or near elliptic foot motion. Hence, the need exists for a mobile exercise apparatus which provides the physical benefits of running without impact. Briefly, the invention relates to a human powered running machine. A frame is provided which includes a base portion and a top portion. The base portion is supported by at least two wheels. A coupling member is attached to the frame which includes a sprocket defining a pivot axis. Two reciprocating members are positioned in spaced relationship to the base portion of the frame. One end of each reciprocating member is adapted for linear movement substantially parallel with the floor. The end of each of the reciprocating members being linearly displaced contacts the base portion of the frame. The other end of each reciprocating member is attached, directly or indirectly, to the sprocket of the coupling member. In this manner, rotation of the sprocket rotates one end of each reciprocating member in a circular motion while the other end of each reciprocating moves in a substantially linear manner. Means are also included for rotatably engaging the sprocket of the coupling member with at least one wheel of the frame. This translates the rotational energy of the sprocket to at least one of the wheels to propel the frame forward. Means are also included for orienting the bottom of the feet of the user so that each foot follows an ovate or near elliptic path during the operation of the apparatus. Such orienting means may include a linkage assembly for each reciprocating member. Each such linkage assembly comprises at least one link which is pivotally connected proximal one end between the two ends of a corresponding reciprocating member, closest to that end of the reciprocating member which is being displaced along the frame. In the preferred embodiment, each linkage assembly includes a second link which is pivotally connected to the second end of the first link. The second link is then pivotally restrained to the top portion of the frame proximate its other end. In an altemate embodiment, each linkage assembly includes a single foot member. One end of each foot member is pivotally connected to a corresponding reciprocating member, closest to that end of the reciprocating member being displaced along the frame and the other end of each foot member consists of a camming suiface which engages a roller fixed to the frame. The camming surface serves to control foot pedal angle. In another alternate embodiment, one end of each foot member is pivotally connected to a corresponding reciprocating member, closest to that end of the reciprocating member being displaced along the frame, and the other end is restrained within a track which may be straight or curved and which is attached to the frame. In yet another alternate embodiment, the base portion of the frame includes a curved section which acts as a camming surface to control the shape of the ovate foot path by influencing the lateral movement of the roller and of each reciprocating member. In yet a further altemate embodiment, each linkage assembly includes a first and second lin Each such first link is pivotally connected proximal one end between the two ends of a corresponding reciprocating member, closest to that end of the reciprocating member which is being displaced along the frame. Each such second link is pivotally connected to the second end of the first link, and each such second link is then pivotally restrained to the top portion of the frame proximate its other end. However, the second end of each second link also includes a handle portion which is to be grabbed by the user and oscillated in a backward/forward motion. In yet another further alternate embodiment, each such linkage assembly comprises a reciprocating member and a foot platform attached thereto proximate that end of the reciprocating member being displaced along the frame. The foot platform may be angularly adjustable providing a preferred orientation for muscle development while the feet of the user follow a preferred closed generally elliptical anatomical path. The more important features of this invention have been summarized rather broadly in order that the detailed description may be better understood. There are, of course, additional features of the invention which will be described hereafter and which will also form the subject of the claims appended hereto. In order to more fully describe the drawings used in the detailed description of the present invention, a brief description of each drawing is provided. Fig. 1 is an elevation view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 2 is a plan view of the preferred embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 3 is an elevation view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fig.4 is an elevation view of another alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 5. is an elevation view of yet another alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 6. is an elevation view of yet a further alternate embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 7 is an elevation view of yet another further alternate embodiment of the present invention. Figs. 8a-8f are various alternate embodiments of the foot platform of the embodiment shown in Fig. 7. Refening to Figs. 1 and 2, a frame 10 is shown comprising a base portion 12 and a top portion 14. Referring briefly to Fig. 2, the frame 10 comprises two bottom portions 12a and 12b. In essence, the lower portion of the frame is comprised of two separate bents "a" and "b". Obviously, variations can be made to frame 10 as disclosed without departing from the spirit of the invention. A coupling system 20 is fixed relative to the frame and comprises a sprocket 22, crank members 24, and chain 30. Two reciprocating members 32 are positioned in the lower proximity of frame 10. Each reciprocating member 32 has one end 34 which is adapted to move laterally in a substantially linear direction as shown in Fig. 1 by aurrow 100. A roller 36 is mounted at each end 34 of each reciprocating member 32 and is adapted, as shown in Fig. 1 , to ride on base portion 12 of frame 10. The other end 38 of each reciprocating member 32 is pivotally connected to one end of a crank 24. The other end of each crank 24 is attached to sprocket 22 at the pivot axis 26 of coupling system 20. The pivot axis 26 is the axis about which sprocket 22 rotates. Chain 30 is routed toward the rear of base portion 12 of frame 10 by idler gears 52 attached to base portion 12 by base 53. The frame is supported by at least two wheels 56 and 64. Rear wheel 56 includes a sprocket 54 which is fixed to an axle 57 that is secured to the rear of base portion 12. Front wheel 64 includes an axle 63 which is secured to a fork 62. Fork 62 is attached to a rotatable steering tube 60 which passes through top portion 16. Handlebar 58 is attached to steering tube 60. Referring still to Fig. 1 , chain 30 is routed past idler gears 52 and circumscribes rear sprocket 54. In the prefened embodiment, the present invention also includes two foot members, or contact members, 40. Each foot member 40 is pivotally attached proximate a first end 42 through a pinned connection 44 to the reciprocating arm 32. A foot pad 50 is attached to the top surface of each foot member 40 at its first end 42. Each foot member 40 is pivotally attached at its other end 46 to a positioning member 48. Each positioning member 48 is also pivotally attached proximal its other end to the top portion 16 of frame 10. Referring to Fig. 2, it can be easily seen that frame 10 comprises dual base portions 12a 12b. Furthermore, it can be seen that reciprocating members 32, foot members 40, and positioning members 48 provide identical dual systems; each system resting on a base portion 12a or 12b of the frame and each ananged to accommodate one foot of the user. In the operation of the prefened embodiment, the user "U" places his right foot on the right pedal and pushes off with his left foot at which time he places his left foot on the pedal. The user then commences an elliptic or an ovate motion of his feet as in running or walking. This motion results in the displacement of first ends 34 of each reciprocating member 32 in the direction of anow 100. Similarly, a circulating motion occurs at the second end 38 of each reciprocating member 32 about pivot axis 26. However, at points between the opposite ends 34 and 38 of each reciprocating member 32, the motion gradually changes from a circular motion (at ends 38) to a linear motion at the ends 34. This geometric transition occurs in the form of an ovate or near elliptic path 102. Pinned connection 44 and foot pad 50 move through the above described ovate path. Foot member end 46 moves through an arcuate path defined by the reciprocating arcuate motion of positioning member 48 thereby controlling the angle of foot member 40 and foot pad 50. Rotation of crank 24 and drive sprocket 22 causes chain 30 to drive rear sprocket 54 and rear wheel 56 thus propelling the apparatus forward. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that traditional bicycle planetary or derailleur gear shift systems are easily adapted to the running machine. Although the figures show this embodiment with two wheels, those skilled in the art will recognize that three or four wheels can be utilized in either a tricycle or quadracycle configuration. Referring now to Fig. 3, an alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. For this embodiment, identical two-digit reference numerals will be used to designate similar structure found in the prefened embodiment but with a 100 series prefix. Frame 110 again comprises a base portion 112 and a top portion 1 16. A coupler system 120 is also provided which is identical in structure and function to coupling system 20 of the prefened embodiment (Figs. 1-2). This altemate embodiment also includes a pair of reciprocating members 132, each having a first end 134 which moves linearly in the direction of arrow 200 by means of rollers 136. Each reciprocating member 132 includes a second end 138 pivotally attached to one end of a crank 124. In this alternate embodiment, two foot members 140 are included having a foot portion 150. Each foot member 140 is pivotally connected at a pinned connection 144 proximate first end 142 of a foot member 140 to a conesponding reciprocating member 132. The forward and upper portion 113 of the foot member 140 comprises a c---mming portion 115 which may be curved as shown by phantom lines 166. A roller 146, which is secured to upper frame 116, engages the upper surface of the c-amming portion 115 of the foot member 140 during the operation of the present invention. Thus, each roller 146 serves to vertically restrain the camming portion 1 15 of each member 140. In the operation of this alternate embodiment, the user initiates an ovate or near elliptic motion of his feet. This foot motion causes the ends 134 of each reciprocating member to move in a linear motion in the direction of anow 200 while ends 138 of each reciprocating member 132 move in a circular motion about pivot axis 126. Pinned connection 144 and foot pad 150 move through an ovate or near elliptic path 202, and the angle of the foot pad 150 is controlled by the camming surface 1 15 engaging roller 146. The profile of the c---mming surface 115 is selected so as to achieve desired foot pad angles. Referring now to Fig. 4, another altemate embodiment of the present invention is shown. As before, similar parts will be designated by the same two-digit reference numeral as shown in the prefened embodiment but now with a 200 series prefix. Frame 210 comprises a lower portion 212 and a top portion 216. A coupling system 220 is included having identical components of the coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Further, coupling system 220 performs in an identical manner to coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. A pair of reciprocating members 232 are also included, each having a first end 234 on which rollers 236 are mounted. The second end 238 of each reciprocating member 232 is pivotally connected to one end of each crank 224. Two foot members 240 are included in this alternate embodiment, each being pivotally connected proximate first end 242 at a pinned connection 244 to a conesponding reciprocating member 232. Each foot member 240 also includes a foot pad 250 attached to the top surface of each foot member 240 at first end 242. In this embodiment, a roller 246 is attached to each foot member 240 at its second end 245. Each roller 246 engages a track 213 which may be curved as shown by phantom lines 268. Track 213 is attached to top portion 216 of the frame. Thus, each track 213 guides the second end 245 of each foot member 240 by means of roller 246. In the operation of this altemate embodiment, the user initiates an ovate or near elliptic motion 302 of his feet. This foot motion causes ends 234 of each reciprocating member 232 to move in a linear motion in the direction of arrow 300 and ends 238 of each reciprocating member 232 move in a circular motion about pivot axis 226. Pinned connection 144 and foot pad 150 move through an ovate or near elliptic path, and the angle of the foot pad 150 is controlled by the roller 246 which engages track 213. The profile of track 213 is selected so as to achieve the desired foot pad angles. Referring now to Fig. 5, yet another altemate embodiment of the present invention is shown. As before, similar parts will be designated by the same two-digit reference numeral as shown in the prefened embodiment but now with a 300 series prefix. Frame 310 again comprises a base portion 312 and a top portion 316. In this alternate embodiment, a portion of base portion 312 includes a curved profile 313 proximate that portion of the base in contact with rollers 336 of reciprocating members 332. A coupling system 320 is including having identical components of the coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Further, coupling system 320 performs in an identical manner to coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Each reciprocating member 332 has one end 334 which is adapted to move laterally. A roller 336 is mounted at each end 334 of each reciprocating member 332 and is adapted, as shown in Fig. 6, to ride on curved profile 313 of base portion 312 of frame 310. This altemate embodiment also includes two foot members, or contact members, 340. Each foot member 340 is pivotally attached proximate a first end 342 through a pinned connection 344 to each reciprocating arm 332. A foot pad 350 is attached to the top surface of each foot member 340 at its first end 342. Each foot member 340 is pivotally attached at its other end 346 to positioning member 348. Each positioning member 348 is also pivotally attached proximal its other end to top portion 316 of frame 310. In the operation of this alternate embodiment, the user's feet move in a predetermined dosed ovate path 402. The curved portion 313 of each base portion 312 acts as a camming surface and influences the profile of the dosed path 402. In Fig. 6, the profile of the curved portion 313 serves to flatten the lower portion of path 402 which more accurately simulates a low speed walking motion. Different profiles for the curved portion 313 may be utilized to best simulate other walking or running speeds. Referring now to Fig. 6, yet a further altemate embodiment of the present invention is shown. As before, similar parts will be designated by the same two-digit reference numeral as shown in the prefened embodiment but now with a 400 series prefix. Frame 410 again comprises a base portion 412 and a top portion 416. A coupling system 420 is induded having identical components of the coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Further, coupling system 420 performs in an identical manner to coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Each redprocating member 432 has one end 434 which is adapted to move laterally. A roller 436 is mounted at each end 434 of redprocating member 432 and is adapted to ride on base portion 412 of frame 410. This alternate embodiment also indudes two foot members, or contact members, 440. Each foot member 440 is pivotally attached proximate a first end 442 through a pinned connection 444 at the redprocating arm 432. A foot pad 450 is attached to the top surface of each foot member 440 at its first end 442. Each foot member 440 is pivotally attached at its other end 446 to arm member 448. Each arm member 448 is pivotally attached proximal its mid-point to the top portion 416 of frame 410. Handles 470 are pivotally coupled to arm members 448 so that the handles can rotate about axes 449. Shrouded cables 474 mechanically couple handles 470 to fork 462 through bellcrank 472. Therefore, as the handles are rotated about axes 449 by the user, the front fork is forced to rotate and steering is effected. In the operation of this altemate embodiment, the user initiates an ovate or near elliptic motion of his feet. This foot motion causes the ends 434 of each redprocating member to move in a linear motion in the direction of anow 500 and ends 438 of each reciprocating member 432 move in a drcular motion about pivot axes 426. Pinned connection 444 and foot pad 450 move through an ovate or near elliptic path 502. End 446 of each foot member 440 moves through an arcuate path defined by the redprocating arcuate motion of arm member 448 thereby controlling the angle of foot member 440 and foot pad 450. The upper end of arm members 448 and handles 470 also move in an arcuate pattern. The user may simultaneously exerdse his upper body by pushing and pulling on the handles 470. Referring now to Fig. 7, yet another further alternate embodiment of the present invention is shown. As before, similar parts will be designated by the same two-digit reference numeral as shown in the prefened embodiment but now with a 500 series prefix. Frame 510 again comprises a base portion 512 and a top portion 516. A coupling system 520 is induded having identical components of the coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. Further, coupling system 520 performs in an identical manner to coupling system 20 described above for the prefened embodiment. In this alternate embodiment two redprocating members 532 are shown, each one having an end 534 which is adapted to move substantially laterally along base portion 512. A roller 536 is mounted at each end 534 of each redprocating member 532. In this alternate embodiment a foot contact member 550 is attached to each reciprocating member 532 proximate end 534 of the conesponding redprocating member 532. Each foot contact member 550 indudes a foot platform 551 which is used to support and contact directly a foot of the user. As shown in Fig. 7, each foot platform 551 is preferably aligned at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the conesponding redprocating member 532 which extends from the pivotal connection 537 at the end of the redprocating member 532 attached to the coupling system 520 to roller 536 at the other end 534 of the conesponding redprocating member 532. Thus, during use of the embodiment shown in Fig. 7, each foot platform 550 moves through an ovate or near elliptical path 602. The orientation of platform 551 is arranged so that when it is near the highest position as approximately shown by the location of the right foot platform 55 lr in Fig. 7, platform 55 lr is substantially parallel to the ground. This is preferable to prevent rearward tilt of platform 551 as it progresses through path 602. Otherwise, the device may cause excessive loading of the calf muscle. As the right foot of the user moves through the bottom of path 602, the right heel lifts, allowing the user to generate more rearward thrust thereby expending additional energy to propd the mobile exerdse device forward. Referring now to Figs. 8a-8f, various altemate embodiments of each foot contact member 550 of Fig. 7 are further illustrated. With respect to Fig. 8a, foot contact member 550 comprises a contact platform 551a pivotally connected at end 700 via pivot connection 702 to redprocating member 532a. A flange or channd member 704 is attached to the base of platform 551a and indudes apertures 706. The end of platform 551a distal end 700 is supported by brace 708. One end of brace 708 is pivotally attached at pivot point 710 to redprocating member 532a while the other end of brace 708 is engaged via a pin connection 712 through one of apertures 706. In this manner, the angle of platform 551a can be adjusted relative to the longitudinal axis of redprocating member 532a. Such an adjustment can be made to accommodate the desired angle of indination of the user while maintaining the prefened elliptical path 602 of Fig. 7. Referring now to Fig. 8b, foot contact member 550 as shown in Fig. 7 may comprise an alternate embodiment as shown in Fig. 8b which indudes a foot platform 55 lb pivotally mounted at pin connection 716 to nonlinear redprocating member 532b having a platform support member 714. In this embodiment, foot platform 55 lb is free to pivot about pin connection 716 enabling the user to freely rotate platform 551b to any number of prefened acute angular positions rdative to a line or axis extending from one end 537b of redprocating member 532b to its other end 534b. Notwithstanding the angular orientation selected by the user during the cycling motion, platform 551b will continue to maintain a dosed substantially elliptical path 602 as shown in Fig. 7. As discussed above, such elliptical movement provides for prefened anatomical response minimizing damage and injury to the ankles and knees. Referring now to Fig. 8c, another alternate embodiment of foot contact member 550 as shown in Fig. 7 is depicted. Reciprocating member 532c is generally the same nonlinear configuration as that of redprocating member 532b of Fig. 8B except that it includes apertures 718 adapted to accommodate pin connections 720 which fixedly secure platform support member 722. As in the case of Fig. 8b, platform 551c is pivotally connected at connection 724 enabling the user to pivot platform 551c to the desired acute angular orientation. The embodiment shown in Fig. 8c is distinguishable from the embodiment shown in Fig. 8b in that the user may disengage pins 720 and reposition member 722 rdative to member 532c by inserting pins 720 in other apertures 718. This changes the profile of dosed elliptical path 602. As platform 551c is moved rearwardly towards roller 536c, elliptical path 602 is flattened thereby deemphasizing vertical movement of each platform 55 lc. This may be a prefened anatomical pattern for some users. Referring now to Fig. 8d, a further improvement is shown over the embodiment of Fig. 8b. Once again, redprocating member 532d is nonlinear and indudes a platform support member 726 which, through pivotal connection 728, supports one end of platform 55 ld. The other end of platform 55 ld is supported by sdssor members 732/734. Each sdssor member 732 and 734 is pivotally connected to one another at connection 736. The other end of member 732 is pivotally connected at connection 730 to foot platform 55 ld. The other end of member 734 is pivotally connected at connection 738 to the end 534d of redprocating member 532d proximate roller 536d. A tensioning member 800 is pivotally attached at one end to member 726 through pin connection 802. The distal portion of member 800 is supported through a bushing anangement 804 proximate pin connection 736. A spring 808 is placed over the portion of member 800 distal pin connection 802. A nut and washer arrangement 810 is then secured through a threaded portion on the distal end of member 800 to compress spring 808. In this manner, the operation of the embodiment shown in Fig. 8d is generally similar to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8b except that the pivotal motion of platform 55 ld is partially restrained by the compressive nature of spring 808. That is, during cycling motion downward pressure through the heel of the user against the rear portion of platform 55 ld adjacent pin connection 730 serves to compress or dose the sdssor members 732/734 thereby compressing spring 808. In this manner, free pivotal movement of platform 55 ld about pin connection 728 is somewhat restrained eliminating the possibility of any enatic pivotal motion of platform 55 ld. Referring now to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8e, the anangement therein is substantially identical to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8d except for the substitution of a shock damper 820 in place of spring 808 of Fig. 8d. In this manner, shock/damper 820 serves to retard compressive and tensile forces. Thus, as the user exerts a heel load on platform 55 le proximate pivot connection 740 the compressive force serves to compress or dose sdssor members 742 and 744. However, shodk damper 820 inhibits abrupt compressive loading of sdssor members 742/744 by pladng a tensile load on member 830. Similarly, if the user places an excessive toe load forward of pin connection 750 which serves to raise the heel portion of platform 55 le, shock damper 820 serves to inhibit a rapid extension of sdssor members 742/744 by pladng a compressive load on member 830. In this manner, pivotal motion of platform 55 le about pin connection 750 is controlled. While pivotal motion is still permitted enabling the user to adjust the angle of platform 551 e to the prefened acute angular orientation, the overall movement of both foot platforms remains on the generally elliptical path 602 of Fig.7. Finally, referring to Fig. 8f, an alternate embodiment is shown of a nonlinear redprocating member 536f which is similar in configuration to the embodiment shown in Fig. 8b. The primary exception with respect to the embodiment of Fig. 8b is the indusion of a flange 860 attached to the bottom of platform 55 If having apertures 870. Platform support member 872 indudes an aperture through which a pin 875 passes providing pivotal movement of platform 55 If through one aperture 870 relative to member 872. The embodiment shown in Fig. 8f is a modification over the embodiment shown in Fig. 8b in that it permits the user to select more predsely the pivot point of platform 55 If relative to its longitudinal position on redprocating member 532f. This may have certain benefits by increasing or decreasing the amount of calf musde involved in the exerdse since pivotal orientation will be varied requiring lower leg muscle control to maintain the proper acute angular orientation as the foot platform 55 If moves through substantially elliptical path 602. Obviously, modifications and alterations to the prefened embodiment disclosed herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art in view of this disclosure. However, it is intended that all such variations and modifications fall within the spirit and scope of this invention as claimed.

Claims: CLAIMS What is daimed is: 1. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having a top portion and a base portion and at least two wheels; a pair of pivotal linkage assemblies, each linkage assembly having at least a first end and a second end, a portion of each said linkage assembly adapted for substantially linear movement along said base portion of said frame and indudes means for supporting each foot of the user; a coupling assembly supported within said frame and pivotally connected to said second end of each linkage assembly; and means for rotatably engaging said coupling assembly with at least one of said wheels, wherein pivotal movement of said linkage assemblies revolves each foot of the user in a substantially elliptical path and enables said rotating means to initiate rotation of at least one of said wheels. 2. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to claim 1 wherein: said coupling assembly comprises a sprocket defining a pivot axis and means for attaching said second end of each linkage assembly to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second end of each such linkage assembly in a substantially drcular path about said pivot axis; and said rotating means comprises a second sprocket in fixed rotational engagement with at least one of said wheds and chain means for rotatably engaging said sprocket of said coupling assembly with said second sprocket. 3. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 1 wherein said top portion of said frame comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheels, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 4. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having a top portion and a base portion and at least two wheels; first and second redprocating members, each redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first and second redprocating members adapted for linear motion substantially parallel with said base portion; a coupling member having (i) a sprocket supported by said frame defining a pivot axis, and (ii) means for attaching said second ends of said first and second redprocating members to said sprod et so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second ends of said first and second redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said pivot axis; means for rotatably engaging said sprodcet with at least one of said wheels; and first and second pivotal linkage assemblies for orienting the bottom of the foot of the user of the apparatus so that each foot follows a substantially elliptical path during operation of the apparatus. 5. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 4 wherein said coupler member attaching means comprises: a first element attached at one end to said sprocket proximate said pivot axis and at its other end to said second end of said first redprocating member; and a second dement attached at one end to said sprocket proximate said pivot axis and at its other end to said second end of said second redprocating member. 6. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 4 wherdn said top portion of said frame further comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheels, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 7. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 4 wherein: said first linkage assembly being pivotally connected proximate one end between the first and second ends of said first redprocating member proximate said first end of said first redprocating member, and second linkage assembly being pivotally connected proximate one end between the first and second ends of said second redprocating member proximate said first end of said second redprocating member, each linkage assembly being pivotally attached at its other end to said frame distally from said coupling member; and said first and second linkage assemblies having a handle portion proximate said pivotal connection to said frame so that the user of said apparatus may grip the handle portions during use of the apparatus enabling a substantially arcuate movement of said handle portions. 8. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 4 wherein: said first linkage assembly comprises a first link and a second link, one end of said first link of said first linkage assembly being pivotally attached proximate said one end between said first and second ends of said first redprocating member, and said second link of said first linkage assembly being pivotally connected at one end to the other end of said first link and pivotally connected proximate the other end of said second link to said frame; and a second linkage assembly comprises a first link and a second link, one end of said first link of said second linkage assembly being pivotally attached proximate said one end between said first and second ends of said second redprocating member, and said second link of said second linkage assembly being pivotally connected at one end to the other end of said first link and pivotally connected proximate the other end of said second link to said frame; said second links of said first linkage assembly and said second linkage assembly having a handle portion proximate said other end so that the user of said apparatus may grip the handle portions during use of the apparatus enabling a substantially arcuate movement of said handle portions. 9. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having at least two wheels; a first linkage assembly having: (i) a first redprocating member, and (ii) a first foot member, said first redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first redprocating member being adapted for substantially linear movement along said frame; a second linkage assembly having: (i) a second redprocating member, and (ii) a second foot member, said second redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said second redprocating member bdng adapted for substantially linear movement along said frame; and a coupling member having: (i) a sprocket supported by said frame defining a pivot axis; and (ii) means for attaching said second ends of said first and second reciprocating members to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second ends of said redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said axis, said first foot member bdng pivotally connected proximal one end between said first and second ends of said first redprocating member, and having a camπύng portion proximate said second end of said first foot member and adapted to engage said frame, said second foot member being pivotally connected proximal one end between said first and second ends of said second redprocating member, and having a camming portion proximate said second end of said second foot member and adapted to engage said frame, wherein each foot of the user of the device follows a predetermined closed path having a prefened anatomical pattem. 10. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 9 wherein said top portion of said frame comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheels, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 11. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having at least two wheels; camming means supported by said frame; a pair of pivotal linkage assemblies, each linkage assembly having at least a first end and a second end, said first end adapted for substantially linear movement along said base portion of said frame and indudes means for supporting each foot of the user; a coupling assembly supported within said frame and pivotally connected to said second end of each linkage assembly; and means for rotatably engaging said coupling system with at least one of said wheels, wherein pivotal movement of said linkage assemblies revolves each foot of the user in a substantially elliptical path and enables said rotating means to initiate rotation of at least one of said wheels. 12. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 1 1 wherein: said coupling assembly comprises a sprocket defining a pivot axis and means for attaching said second end of each linkage assembly to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second end of each such linkage assembly in a substantially drcular path about said pivot axis; and said rotating means comprises a second sprocket in fixed rotational engagement with at least one of said wheds and diain means for rotatably engaging said sprocket of said coupling assembly with said second sprocket. 13. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 1 1 wherein said top portion of said frame comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheels, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 14. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 1 1 wherein said camming means comprises a pair of rollers adapted to engage said pivotal linkage assemblies. 15. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having at least two wheels; camming means supported by said frame; a first linkage assembly having a first redprocating member and a first foot member, said first redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first redprocating member being adapted for linear movement along said frame, said first foot member having a first and second end, said first foot member being pivotally attached proximate said first end of said first foot member between said first and second ends of said first redprocating member proximate said first end of said first redprocating member, said second end of said first foot member adapted to engage and move along said camming means; a second linkage assembly having a second redprocating member and a second foot member, said second redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said second redprocating member being adapted for linear movement along said frame, said second foot member having first and second ends, said second foot member bdng pivotally attached proximate said first end of said second foot member between said first and second ends of said redprocating member proximate said first end of said second redprocating member, said second end of said second foot member being adapted to engage and move along said camming means; and a coupling member having a sprocket supported by said frame defining a pivot axis and means for attaching said second end of said first and second reciprocating members to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of the second ends of said redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said axis and wherein each foot of the user of the device follows a predetermined dosed path having a prefened anatomical pattern. 16. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 15 wherein said top portion of said frame comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheds, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 17. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 15 wherein each said foot member indudes a roller mounted at said second end and said camming means comprises a track member adapted to engage each said roller. 18. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having a curved lower portion and at least two wheds; a first linkage assembly having a first redprocating member and a first foot member, said first redprocating member having first end and a second ends, said first end of said first redprocating member being adapted to contact said curve portion said first foot member having first and second ends, said first foot member being pivotally attached proximate said first end of said first foot member between said first and second ends of said first redprocating member proximate said first end of said first redprocating member; a second linkage assembly having a second redprocating member and second foot member, said second redprocating member having first and second ends, said first end of said second redprocating member being adapted to contact said curved portion of said base portion, said second foot member having first and second ends, said second foot member bdng pivotally attadied proximate said first end of said second foot member between said first and second ends of said redprocating member proximate said first end of said second redprocating member; and a coupling member having a sprodcet supported by said frame defining a pivot axis and means for attaching said second ends of said first and second redprocating members to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of the second ends of said redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said axis and wherein each foot of the user of the device follows a predetermined dosed path having a prefened anatomical pattem. 19. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 18 wherein said top portion of said frame comprises a handle portion and at least one of said wheds, enabling the user to steer said mobile exerdsing apparatus. 20. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 18 wherein said apparatus further comprises a camming means supported by said frame. 21. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 20 wherein said camming means comprises a track and each said foot members includes a roller mounted proximate said second end of each foot member and adapted to rotatably engage said track. 22. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having a top portion and a base portion and at least two wheels; first and second redprocating members, each redprocating member having a first end and a second end, a portion of each said redprocating member adapted for substantially linear movement along said base portion of said frame; a coupling assembly supported within said frame and pivotally connected to said second end of each redprocating member; means for orienting the bottom of the foot of the user so that each foot follows a substantially elliptical path during operation, said orienting means indudes a platform for each foot inclined at an acute angle relative to an axis extending from the first end of a conesponding redprocating member to the second end of the same conesponding redprocating member; and means for rotatably engaging said coupling assembly with at least one of said wheels, wherein redprocating movement of said redprocating members revolves each foot of the user in a substantially elliptical path and enables said rotating means to initiate rotation of at least one of said wheels. 23. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 22 wherdn: said coupling assembly comprises a sprocket defining a pivot axis and means for attaching said second end of each redprocating member to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second end of each such redprocating member in a substantially drcular path about said pivot axis; and said rotating means comprises a second sprocket in fixed rotational engagement with at least one of said wheels and chain means for rotatably engaging said sprocket of said coupling assembly with said second sprocket. 24. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 22 wherein said first and second redprocating members each indude a platform support member pivotally supporting one of said platforms permitting the pivotal movement of the platform relative to a conesponding platform support member. 25. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to claim 24 wherein said orienting means further indudes means for dampening the pivotal movement of each said platform relative to a conesponding platform support member. 26. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 25 wherein said dampening means for each platform comprises (a) a linkage assembly pivotally attached at one end to one of said platforms distal said pivotal connection to said platform support member and pivotally attached at the other end of said linkage assembly to said conesponding redprocating member proximate said first end of said redprocating member, and (b) a spring for inhibiting the pivotal motion of said linkage assembly. 27. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 24 wherein said redprocating members each indude a plurality of apertures proximate said first end of each redprocating member permitting the adjustable engagement of the platform support member with said conesponding redprocating member. J 28. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having a top portion and a base portion and at least two wheels; first and second redprocating members, each redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first and second redprocating members adapted for linear motion substantially parallel with said base portion; a coupling member having (i) a sprocket supported by said frame defining a pivot axis, and (ii) means for attaching said second ends of said first and second reciprocating members to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second ends of said first and second redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said pivot axis; means for orienting the bottom of the foot of the user so that each foot follows a substantially elliptical path during operation, said orienting means indudes a platform for each foot indined at an acute angle relative to an axis extending from the first end of a conesponding redprocating member to the second end of the same corresponding redprocating member; and means for rotatably engaging said sprocket with at least one of said wheels, wherdn redprocating movement of said redprocating members revolves each foot of the user in a substantially elliptical path and enables said rotating means to initiate rotation of at least one of said wheels. 29. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 28 wherein said coupler member attaching means comprises: a first element attached at one end to said sprocket proximate said pivot axis and at its other end to said second end of said first redprocating member; and a second dement attached at one end to said sprocket proximate said pivot axis and at its other end to said second end of said second redprocating member. 30. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to claim 28 wherein said first and second redprocating members each includes a platform support member pivotally supporting one of said platforms permitting the pivotal movement of the platform rdative to a conesponding platform support member. 31. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 30 wherein said orienting means further includes means for dampening the pivotal movement of each said platform rdative to a conesponding platform support member. 32. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 31 wherein said dampening means for each platform comprises (a) a linkage assembly pivotally attached at one end to one of said platforms distal said pivotal connection to said platform support member and pivotally attached at the other end of said linkage assembly to said conesponding redprocating member proximate said first end of said redprocating member, and (b) a spring for inhibiting the pivotal motion of said pivotal linkage assembly. 33. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 30 wherein said redprocating members each include a plurality of apertures proximate said first end of each redprocating member permitting the adjustable engagement of the platform support member with said conesponding redprocating member. 34. A mobile exerdsing apparatus comprising: a frame having at least two wheels; a first linkage assembly having: (i) a first redprocating member, and (ii) a first foot support member, said first redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said first redprocating member being adapted for substantially linear movement along said frame; a second linkage assembly having: (i) a second redprocating member, and (ii) a second foot support member, said second redprocating member having a first end and a second end, said first end of said second redprocating member being adapted for substantially linear movement along said frame; and a coupling member having: (i) a sprocket supported by said frame defining a pivot axis; and (ii) means for attaching said second ends of said first and second reciprocating members to said sprocket so that rotation of said sprocket results in the rotation of said second ends of said redprocating members in a substantially drcular path about said axis, said first foot support member being pivotally connected to said first reciprocating member, and having a platform for each foot indined at an acute angle rdative to an axis extending from the first end of said first redprocating member to the second end of said first redprocating member, said second foot support member being pivotally connected to said second reciprocating member, and having a platform for each foot inclined at an acute angle relative to an axis extending from the first end of said second redprocating member to the second end of said second redprocating member, wherein each foot of the user follows a predetermined dosed path having a prefened anatomical pattern. 35. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 34 wherein said first and second redprocating members each include a platform support member pivotally supporting one of said platforms permitting the pivotal movement of the platform rdative to a conesponding platform support member. 36. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 35 wherein said orienting means further includes means for dampening the pivotal movement of each said platform relative to a conesponding platform support member. 37. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 36 wherein said dampening means for each platform comprises (a) a linkage assembly pivotally attached at one end to one of said platforms distal said pivotal connection to said platform support member and pivotally attached at the other end of said linkage assembly to said conesponding redprocating member proximate said first end of said redprocating member, and (b) a spring for inhibiting the pivotal motion of said linkage assembly. 38. The mobile exerdsing apparatus according to daim 35 wherein said redprocating members each indude a plurality of apertures proximate said first end of eadi redprocating member perrnitting the adjustable engagement of the platform support member with said conesponding redprocating member.

Applicants: RODGERS ROBERT E JR, RODGERS, ROBERT, E., JR.
Application year: 1996
Main classification: A63B22
IPC codes: A63B23, B62K3, B62M1