Patent Publication Number: US-7909740-B2

Title: Elliptical exercise machine with integrated aerobic exercise system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional of prior U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/916,684 filed on Aug. 11, 2004 entitled “ELLIPTICAL EXERCISE MACHINE WITH INTEGRATED ANAEROBIC EXERCISE SYSTEM” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. The Field of the Invention 
     The present invention relates to exercise equipment and, more specifically, to exercise devices that provide aerobic and anaerobic activities. 
     2. The Prior State of the Art 
     In the field of exercise equipment, a variety of devices have been developed to strengthen and condition muscles commonly used for a variety of activities, including both anaerobic and aerobic activities. Generally speaking, anaerobic activities include activities that require voluntary acting muscles to flex a significant amount during a relatively small number of repetitions, such as while engaging in strength training, e.g., with free weights or an exercise device having a cable-based resistance system. Exercise devices that enable anaerobic exercise include weight systems that provide one or more exercises based on a common resistance mechanism, such as one or more handles or bars coupled to a weight stack or other resistance mechanism via a cable-based system having one or more cables and pulleys. 
     By contrast, aerobic activities include activities that are designed to dramatically increase heart rate and respiration, often over an extended period of time, such as running, walking, and swimming for several minutes or more. Aerobic conditioning devices that simulate such activities have typically included treadmills, stepping machines, elliptical machines, various types of sliding machines, and so forth. 
     Recently, elliptical machines have proven especially popular for allowing a user to perform aerobic ambulatory exercises (e.g., walking or running) with moderate to significant intensity, while at the same time providing low impact to the user&#39;s joints. 
     Unfortunately, present exercise systems are generally configured for only one of anaerobic exercises and aerobic exercises, but not for both. This can create a tension for a user since both anaerobic and aerobic exercises can be important components of an exercise regimen. The tension can be heightened since anaerobic and aerobic exercise systems each separately take up a certain amount of space that a user may want to devote to other items, and since each such exercise system can be relatively expensive. Accordingly, a user may be reluctant to purchase both types of individual exercise systems due to any number of cost and space constraints. 
     As a result, a user may purchase only one type of exercise system, but then forego the benefits of the alternative exercise activities. This is less than ideal for users who desire to implement a complete workout regimen. Alternatively, the user may purchase only one type of exercise system, but then purchase an additional membership to a workout facility to exercise on other apparatuses in different ways. This is less than ideal at least from a convenience standpoint. 
     Accordingly, an advantage can be realized with exercise apparatuses that can provide the benefits of multiple types of exercises in a convenient and cost-effective manner. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Exemplary embodiments of the present invention include systems, apparatuses, and methods that enable a user to perform anaerobic and/or aerobic activities on a compactable exercise machine. In particular, a user can move an exercise machine into a contracted position, an expanded position, or some combination therebetween, so that the user can access the exercise machine for primarily aerobic exercise, primarily anaerobic exercise, or some combination of both, as appropriate. 
     An exemplary exercise system may comprise an elliptical exercise device and a strength training device mounted on a telescoping frame. When the telescoping frame is expanded, a user can conveniently engage in elliptical exercises. When the telescoping frame is contracted, a user can conveniently engage in strength training exercises. The telescoping frame also provides convenient storage. 
     At least a portion of one exercise device, such as certain operable components of the elliptical device, can be mounted on one part of the frame, while at least a portion of the other device, such as certain operable components of the strength training device, can be mounted on another part of the frame. As such, the two portions can be telescopically contracted and expanded, relative to the other. 
     In addition, one or more sensors and motors can be positioned within the exercise system. The one or more sensors and motors can be configured to transfer (or perform an action on) respective electronic signals sent to and/or from a user. An electronic console can facilitate the signal transfers, and can receive (and send) electronic signals from the one or more sensors or motors. In one implementation, the electronic console can allow a user to view exercise progress in both anaerobic and aerobic workouts, and/or to adjust anaerobic and aerobic resistance mechanisms. 
     These and other benefits, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by practicing the invention as set forth below. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more extensive description of the present invention, including the above-recited features and advantages, will be rendered with reference to the specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawings. Because these drawings depict only exemplary embodiments, the drawings should not be construed as imposing any limitation on the present invention&#39;s scope. As such, the present invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through use of the accompanying drawings in which: 
         FIG. 1A  is a side view of a telescoping exercise system having an aerobic, elliptical device and an anaerobic, strength training device in accordance with an implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 1B  is a side view of the exercise system depicted in  FIG. 1A , wherein the system is contracted; 
         FIG. 2A  is a close up, side view of the operating components of the elliptical device of the exercise device of  FIGS. 1A-2A ; 
         FIG. 2B  is a side perspective view of the elliptical device depicted in  FIG. 2A ; 
         FIG. 3  is a close up, top perspective view of a telescoping portion of the frame of the exercise system depicted in  FIGS. 1A-2A ; 
         FIG. 4  is a close up, front view of the telescoping frame shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5A  is a plan view of a release handle and related components of the telescoping frame shown in  FIG. 3 ; 
         FIG. 5B  is a plan view of the release handle and related components depicted in 
         FIG. 5A , wherein the release handle and related components are disengaged; 
         FIGS. 6A and 6B  are side perspective views of an anaerobic resistance assembly and repetition sensor of the exercise system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B ; 
         FIG. 7  is front view of an electronic console of the exercise system of  FIGS. 1A and 1B  for managing anaerobic and aerobic exercise information in accordance with an implementation of the present invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a software block diagram for receiving, processing, and displaying information on an electronic console such as the console of  FIG. 7 ; 
         FIG. 9A  is a side view of an elliptical device mounted on another embodiment of a multi-part frame, wherein the elliptical device is expanded relative to the strength training device in a pivoting fashion; and 
         FIG. 9B  is a side view of  FIG. 9A  wherein the elliptical device is compacted relative to the strength training device in a pivoting fashion. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     The present invention relates generally to systems, apparatuses, and methods that enable a user to perform anaerobic and/or aerobic activities on a compactable exercise machine. In particular, a user can move an exercise machine into a contracted position, an expanded position, or some combination therebetween, so that the user can access the exercise machine for primarily aerobic exercise, primarily anaerobic exercise, or some combination of both, as appropriate. 
       FIGS. 1A and 1B  demonstrate respective extended and contracted views of an aerobic and anaerobic exercise system  100  comprising: (i) a multi-part, telescoping frame  102 ; (ii) an aerobic, elliptical exercise device  104  coupled to frame  102 ; and (iii) an anaerobic, strength training device  106  coupled to frame  102 . The strength training device  106  shown has a cable-based resistance system, although other systems may also be employed in place of device  106 . 
     A multi-part frame, such as telescoping frame  102 , allows exercise system  100  (also referred to sometimes as an exercise “machine”) to be (i) extended, enabling convenient aerobic, elliptical exercise; or (ii) compacted, enabling convenient anaerobic, strength training exercise. By enabling convenient elliptical exercise and/or strength training exercise, system  100  is efficient and economic. Also, by being compactable, system  100  can be conveniently stored. Strength training device  106  is compact and lightweight. Frame  102  and devices  104 ,  106  form a unique exercise apparatus to which a unique electronic console (or unique electronic console system) is coupled. These and other advantages will now be described in additional detail, beginning with a description of the telescoping frame  102  shown in  FIGS. 1A-1B . 
     Telescoping frame  102  comprises a stationary portion  108   a  and a telescoping portion  108   b . Generally, a “telescoping portion” can be understood as a moving portion that moves inside or away from a “stationary portion”. Of course, a manufacturer can also configure telescoping frame  106  such that portion  108   b  is actually the stationary portion, and such that portion  108   a  is actually the telescoping portion. As such, designations of “telescoping” or “stationary” with respect to the frame components are arbitrary, and may be switched by the manufacturer depending on the type of components used in the exercise system  100 . 
     In one implementation, stationary portion  108   a  and telescoping portion  108   b  can be configured such that telescoping portion  108   b  cannot completely separate from the stationary portion  108   a  after full expansion. The stationary portion  108   a  and telescoping portion  108   b  can also be configured such that the telescoping portion  108   b  can be fully contracted with respect to the stationary portion  108   a , fully expanded from the stationary portion  108   a , or only partially expanded or contracted. As such, a manufacturer can implement a wide variety of options for configuring a contractible exercise system  100 . 
     Continuing with  FIG. 1A , frame  102  further comprises one or more release handles  110  for contracting or expanding frame  102 , and one or more rollers  112   a - b , in order to help position the system  100 . Release handle  110  releasably secures frame  102  at different states of contraction or expansion. Rollers  112   a - b  are positioned at an end of one or more of the stationary portion  108   a  and the telescoping portion  108   b . Rollers  112   a - b  can help a user move the entire exercise system  100  and rollers  112   b  can also help move the telescoping portion  108   b  within and without the stationary portion  108   a , as needed. 
     Frame  102  further comprises (i) an upstanding member  114  that is coupled to stationary portion  108   a ; and (ii) pulley attachment beams  116   a - b  which extend from upstanding member  114  at different positions to provide the user with exercise access points to a resistance assembly  118  of the strength training device  106 . Additional details relating to the telescopic coupling of frame  110  will be discussed in detail below. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 1A-1B , elliptical exercise device  104  will now be discussed in additional detail. Elliptical exercise device  104  comprises (i) a crank  120  movably coupled to telescoping portion  108   b  of frame  102 ; and (ii) first and second opposing foot supports  122   a - b  movably coupled to crank  120 . In one implementation, the crank  120  is coupled to the telescoping portion  108   b  through a bracket (not shown). For example, the bracket may comprise a securing portion at the lower end of the bracket for securing the bracket to the telescoping portion  108   b . The bracket may further comprise an extension that terminates in a perpendicular axle. The crank  120  may then be mounted on the bracket about the axle. In another implementation, the axle can extend from an inner wall of the elliptical device  104  housing. 
     In the illustrated implementation, the crank  120  further comprises means for providing the back ends of the opposing foot supports  11   a - b  with cyclical motion. To provide such a motion, the illustrated crank  120  comprises a flywheel  124  that rotates about an axis. The flywheel  124  comprises pivoting rods  126   a - b  that are mounted about the flywheel  124  periphery, and that extend in opposite directions relative to each other. In the illustrated implementation, one pivoting rod  126   a  is positioned approximately 180.degree. about the flywheel  124  periphery relative to the other pivoting rod  126   b . The opposing foot supports  122   a - b  are then pivotally joined to the flywheel  124  at the respective, pivoting rods  126   a - b . When the flywheel  124  turns a given direction, the back end of the foot supports  122   a - b  move in a respectively cyclical motion about the flywheel  124  axis. 
     One will appreciate, however, that other implementations of a crank  120  can be used in accordance with the present invention. For example, the crank can comprise two opposing arms that rotate about an axis, such as bicycle-type crank arms (not shown), wherein the back end of the foot supports  122   a - b  pivotally connect to the extreme ends of the arms. In another implementation, the crank comprises two opposing flywheels rotating about the same axis, wherein one pivoting rod extends from one flywheel, and the opposing rod extends in an opposite direction from the opposing flywheel. In each case, the given crank simply provides the foot supports  122   a - b  with cyclical motion. 
     Continuing with the elliptical device  104 , the front ends of the respective foot supports  122   a - b  comprise respective wheels  123   a - b  that are configured to move in basically linear back and forth motions. In use, wheels  123   a - b  of respective foot supports  122   a - b  contact and move back and forth within grooves on the stationary portion  108   a  of frame  102 . This results in an overall elliptical motion for the elliptical device  104  when combined with the cyclical motion of the foot support  122   a - b  back ends. 
     Elliptical device  104  further comprises (i) a resistance wheel  128  movably coupled via a belt to flywheel  124 ; and (ii) a resistance mechanism that adjustably applies resistance to the resistance wheel  128  (e.g., through magnetic resistance), which together serve to adjust resistance to the movement of flywheel  124 . 
     Thus, in the implementation shown in  FIG. 1A , the operable components (e.g., foot supports  12   a - b  and crank  120 ) of elliptical device  104  are coupled to the telescoping portion  108   b  of frame  102 , whereby such components of device  104  are easily positioned close to or away from strength training device  106 . Such operable components can be coupled alternatively to stationary portion  108   a  of frame  102 , while the anaerobic device  106  can be coupled to the telescoping portion  108   b . In such an alternative embodiment, the anaerobic device  106  may be movably positioned with respect to the aerobic device  104 . 
     Also as shown in  FIGS. 1A and 1B , elliptical device  104  further comprises first and second user stabilizing handles  140  (only one shown handle  140  shown) coupled to opposing sides of upstanding member  114  and extending rearward in order to be conveniently grasped by a user. Stabilizing handles  140 , can provide balance during certain exercises, and may also include sensors (not shown) that measure the user&#39;s pulse during still other exercises. Upstanding member  114  further provides a convenient post on which to mount some or all of the components of anaerobic device  106 . 
     Anaerobic device  106  comprises (i) a resistance assembly  118  coupled to the front portion of upstanding member  114 ; and (ii) one or more exercise stations, such as pull handles  142   a - d  linked to resistance assembly  118  via a pulley and cable system that is coupled to and extends through frame  102 . Resistance assembly  118  provides adjustable resistance to movement of handles  142   a - d .  FIGS. 1A and 1B  generally depict the components and use of resistance assembly  118  in solid and broken lines. As shown, resistance assembly  118  comprises a resistance assembly frame  143  that is coupled to upstanding member  114 . The additional components of resistance assembly  118  will be described in additional detail below. 
     Implementations of the exercise system  100  include one or more electronic consoles  144  that gathers, receives, processes, and displays data between one or more components (e.g., stabilizing handles  140 ), as well as the aerobic, elliptical device  104  and anaerobic, strength training device  106 . For example, data received from sensors mounted on opposing right and left stabilizing handles  140  are output directly at a display interface on the electronic console  144 , thereby indicating the user&#39;s heart rate. Furthermore, data received from each of elliptical device  104  and strength training device  106  can be combined, processed, and displayed as appropriate back to the user. 
     With continued reference to  FIGS. 1A-B , system  100  can further comprise additional features which aid the user in either comfort or balance. For example, a pad  150  is attached to upright member  114 , and can be useful as a knee pad when a user is facing pad  150 , or as a backrest when a user is seated (as in  FIG. 1B ), or when the user is facing away from pad  150  and desires to rest against it, depending upon a given exercise. Furthermore, a pad  152  is mounted on a housing  121  surrounding the crank  120 , forming a padded bench on which a user can sit while performing exercises. 
     A leg exercise system, such as a leg extension assembly  153 , comprising a leg extension bar  154  is movably coupled to pad  152 , thereby enabling knee extension exercises. The leg extension assembly  153  further comprise leg contact members  155  (only one shown) on opposing sides of bar  154 . A cable may connect a hook  156  mounted on bar  154  to resistance assembly  118  (e.g., by connecting to handle  142   a  or a connector associated therewith). The cable may extend from hook  156  through hooks  158   a - b  to handle  142   a  (or an associated connector) in order to keep the cable away from the operable components of elliptical device  104 . 
     In one implementation, a user may desire to sit on the pad  152  and perform anaerobic, strength training exercises at one or more exercise stations when crank  120  is positioned close to strength training device  106  (e.g., as in  FIG. 1B ). This can enable the user to lean back against pad  150  when sitting to perform certain exercises, e.g., by pulling one or more handles  142   a - d , or by performing leg extensions against using assembly  153 . Of course, specific positioning of crank  120  with respect to the anaerobic device  106  is not required for all aerobic or anaerobic activity on exercise system  100 . 
       FIG. 1B  further shows that the exercise system  100  can comprise multiple electronic consoles in an electronic console system, such as electronic consoles  144   a  and  144   b  (phantom). For example, one electronic console  144   a  can be mounted directly to the frame  114 , while another electronic console  144   b  can be embedded inside pad  152  so that it is viewed when the user is seated. In one embodiment, one electronic console  144   a  is configured to display primarily aerobic data, while a second electronic console  144   b  is configured to display anaerobic data based on use of the strength training device  106 . In other embodiments, the exercise system  100  can further comprise an electronic console system having three or more electronic consoles for specific exercise devices, as appropriate. 
     Thus, for example, a workout or training program can be geared to display information through each of the one or more electronic consoles (e.g., one console— 144 , or multiple consoles— 144   a ,  144   b , etc., as appropriate). In particular, the workout or training program can be configured to output elliptical workout instructions, and elliptical data at one display interface (e.g., console  144 , or  144   a , as appropriate), and, at an appropriate time, output strength training workout instructions and related strength training workout data at the same or another display interface (e.g., console  144 , or  144   b , as appropriate). For example, strength training and elliptical exercise data can be displayed at one or more corresponding display interfaces at one electronic console  144 . Alternatively, elliptical data can be displayed through one or more corresponding display interfaces at electronic console  144   a , while strength training data is displayed only at the corresponding one of multiple electronic console  144   b.    
     In this manner, one console  144  or multiple consoles  144   a ,  144   b  of the exercise system  100  (which are user linked), can be utilized to perform “circuit training” with anaerobic and aerobic exercises. In general, circuit training involves implementation of an exercise program to direct a user to perform certain exercises on one machine, and other exercises on another machine. This can be done through displays at one console, or through multiple displays (e.g., first and second displays) at respective multiple consoles. For example, an exercise program can be displayed to a user through a first console display at one exercise device, telling a user to perform 15 minutes of aerobic training; and then the program can direct the user to another, second, console display, where the second display tells the user to perform 25 repetitions of another exercise on a strength training device, and so forth. In one implementation, the circuit training identifies the user or exercise data as it is performed, can modify its instructions accordingly, and completes after the user has finished the instructions shown at each corresponding one or more displays. 
       FIG. 2A  and the following discussion outline the elliptical device  104  in greater detail. For example, the illustrated elliptical device  104  comprises pivoting rods  126   a  and  126   b  that connect the respective backend of a foot support (e.g.,  122   a  and  122   b ) to flywheel  124 . Belt  160  couples the flywheel  124  to the resistance-based, flywheel  128 . A belt tensioner  162 , positioned along the belt  160 , can help keep the belt tensioned so that it does not slip out of position. 
     The elliptical device  104  also comprises a “C”-shaped aerobic resistor  164  for adjusting the elliptical resistance, wherein the aerobic resistor  164  can be varied at least in part by a spring-based adjustment system  166 . For example, aerobic resistor  164  is configured such that contraction of the aerobic resistor  164  by the spring-based adjustment system slows the movement of the resistance flywheel  128 ; while releasing the braking mechanism  164  frees the motion of the resistance flywheel  128 . In one implementation, the aerobic resistor  164  may comprise eddy magnet brakes, although a wide variety of brakes or other resistance apparatus can be used within the context of the invention. The spring adjuster  166  contracts or expands the aerobic resistor  164  relative to the resistance flywheel  128 . In one implementation, the spring adjuster  166  may be adjusted based on user input (e.g., through electronic signals sent from the console  144  to a motor coupled to the spring adjuster  166 ). 
     The implementation of  FIG. 2B  further shows that the pivoting rod  120  comprises two solid disk flywheels  124  (i.e.,  124   a  and  124   b ). In particular, the flywheels  124   a - b  are each connected about an axle, where one disk is connected to a foot support  122   a  through a pivoting rod  126   a , while another disk is connected to the other foot support  122   b  through another pivoting rod  126   b . Alternatively, the flywheel  124  may comprise one solid disk positioned about an axle, where the flywheel  124  also connects to the respective foot supports with respective pivoting rods  126   a  and  126   b . Generally, a solid disk flywheel  124  can provide additional balance and stability to the elliptical exercise system  104 , in addition to some cost considerations. For example, it may be less expensive, in some implementations, to use a solid disk as the outer wall of an aerobic system  104  housing  121 . 
       FIG. 3  and the following description provide detail concerning the telescoping frame  102  and associated components. For example, as shown in  FIG. 3 , one or more inner side rollers  168  roll along the side walls of the inner cavity in the stationary portion  108   a . As well, one or more bottom rollers  170  roll along the lower surface of the inner cavity of the stationary portion  108   a . At least one advantage to using side and bottom rollers in this manner is that rollers  168  and  160  can help metallic frame parts move together much more fluidly than, for example, using only grease to overcome frictional forces. Furthermore, the ease of movement provided by the described rollers can make the compacting and expanding ability of the exercise system  100  accessible to any user. 
       FIG. 4  illustrates a front view of the telescoping portion  108   b  when the telescoping portion  108   b  is positioned within the stationary portion  108   a , such that the exercise system  100  is compacted. In one implementation, one or more stoppers set toward the front of the stationary portion  108   a  may be used to set a maximum insertion point of the telescoping portion  108   b . This can be done when one or more of the wheels  160  of the telescoping portion  108   b  abut the one or more respective stoppers of the stationary portion  108   a  when the exercise system  100  is fully compacted. In another implementation, one or more back stoppers (not shown) can be used to set a maximum expansion point of the telescoping portion  108   b  relative to the stationary portion. 
     At or between the maximum and minimum compaction points, releasable securing means, such as release handle  110 , can be used to secure the telescoping portion  108   b  in various positions. For example,  FIG. 5A  illustrates a release handle  110  in an engaged (or “secured”) position with respect to the stationary portion  108   b . As used herein, the term “engaged” can refer generally to a position of the release handle  110 , in which the telescoping portion  108   b  can be prohibited from compacting or expanding, relative to the stationary portion  108   a . Conversely, the term “disengaged” or “released”, with reference to the release handle  110 , can refer to the position of the release handle  110  in which the telescoping portion  108   b  can be free to contract or expand with respect to the stationary portion  108   a.    
     As further illustrated in  FIG. 5A , an implementation of the release handle  110  comprises (i) an outer sheath  184   a , which resides primarily inside the stationary portion  108   a  of the telescoping frame  110 ; (ii) a spring bias  174  within the outer sheath  184   a ; (iii) one or more inner sheaths  184   b  extending from the outer sheath  184   a ; and (iv) a detent  178  that is biased by the spring  174 . When a user moves the release handle  110 , the user compresses the spring bias  174  as the user moves the handle  110  in toward the telescoping portion  108   b . In so doing, the user extends the handle detent  178  from the one or more inner sheaths  184   b  into a respective cavity  180  in the telescoping portion  108   b . The user locks the release handle  110  into position by rotating the handle, such that a shaft detent  182  slips into securing slot  176   a.    
     A user can, of course, also disengage the release handle  110  so that the telescoping portion  108   b  can be repositioned with respect to the stationary portion  108   a . As shown in  FIG. 5B , for example, the release handle  110  is rotated and released (e.g., pulled or pushed) away from the stationary portion  108   a , such that the handle detent  178  pulls out of the groove or cavity  180 . In one particular implementation, when a user rotates the release handle, the springs  174  become uncompressed, and force the handle  110  into an extended position. Once the handle is extended, the user then locks the handle  110  in the disengaged position by positioning shaft detent  182  into slot  176   b . The telescoping portion  108   b  can then move freely with respect to the telescoping portion  108   a . One will appreciate that the stability of such a locking mechanism is particularly important for a user performing relevant exercises such as on the exercise system  100 . 
       FIGS. 6A-6B  and the following description provide greater detail regarding the resistance assembly  118  of strength training portion  106  (see also  FIGS. 1A-1B ). In particular,  FIG. 6A  illustrates a schematic overview of one resistance assembly  118  having cables  186  that couple the resistance assembly  118  to one or more exercise stations.  FIG. 6B  provides a more particular illustration of the resistance assembly  118  shown in  FIG. 6A , further showing the one or more operations for the respective resistance and repetition counting parts. 
     In general, resistance assembly  118  is configured such that, when a user exerts a force by pulling one or more pull handles  142   a - d , leg extension assembly  153  or another suitable exercise station, a respective cable  186  pulls against a resistance provided by resistance assembly  118 . Resistance assembly  118  may be employed as a self-contained assembly that may be portable to a variety of different exercise systems. Similar and alternative representations and operations of the depicted resistance assembly  118  are described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,685,607, filed on Jan. 10, 2003, entitled “EXERCISE DEVICE WITH RESISTANCE MECHANISM HAVING A PIVOTING ARM AND A RESISTANCE MEMBER”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
     As shown, resistance assembly  118  comprises: (i) a frame  143  configured to be mounted to an exercise device frame, such as frame  102 ; (ii) a cable  186  having opposing ends that are configured to be coupled to one or more exercise stations, e.g., handles  142   a - b ; (iii) a pair of resilient resistance bands  196 , each coupled at a lower end thereof to frame  143 ; (iv) a “primary” pivoting plate assembly  202  movably coupled below bands  196  to frame  143 ; and (v) a threaded drive member  200  movably coupled to the pivoting plate assembly  202 . The illustrated resistance assembly  118  still further comprises: (vi) a cross beam  198  movably coupled to the threaded drive member  200  at one end via threaded pivoting member  198   a , and, at an upper end, the cross beam  198  is coupled to another end of the resilient resistance bands  196 . The respective bands  196  are therefore connected to cross beam  198  in such a way that the respective bands  196  are moveable within respective slots  192   a  in frame  143 . 
     The illustrated resistance assembly  118  yet still further comprises: (vii) a motor  204  configured to selectively turn threaded drive member  200 ; (viii) a “secondary” pivoting plate assembly  206  movably coupled to primary pivoting plate assembly  202 ; and (ix) a series of pulleys mounted to frame  143  and the secondary pivoting plate assembly  206 , for receiving or transferring cable  186  therein. In general, cable  186  extends through one or more cavities in frame  143 , as shown in  FIGS. 6A-B , around the corresponding pulleys, and ultimately back into respective exercise handle stations coupled to frame  143  (e.g., handles  142   a - b ). Secondary cables may be coupled to handles  142   c - d  and to respective coupling joints  145   a - b  of cable  186 . 
     Upon movement of an exercise station, such as handle  124   a , pivoting plate assembly  202  moves against resistance provided by resilient resistance bands  196 , as depicted by the extended broken lines shown in  FIGS. 6A-B . The resistance applied by bands resistance can be adjusted by adjusting the position of cross beam  198  along threaded drive member  200 . Such adjustment can occur by actuating drive motor  204  to thereby turn threaded drive member  200  within threaded pivoting member  198   a  of cross beam  198 . Threaded drive member  200  can thus be turned to move cross beam  198 , and hence change the angle against which force is applied to the resilient bands  196 , hence changing resistance. In at least one implementation, drive motor  204  is configured to rotate the threaded drive member  200  based on one or more electrical signals that may be received from console  144 , for example. 
     In particular, when the respective cable  186  moves upward (+x), pivoting plate assembly  202  is pulled in an upward, arcuate manner (+y) toward the resistance assembly frame  143 . In addition, the cross beam  198  rotates about the threaded pivoting member  198   a    116   a , which is in a fixed position set at least in part by the motor  204 . This movement of the cross beam  198  causes the flexible resilient bands  196  to stretch in a respective direction (+x) along the slots  192   a . As shown, stretching of the resilient resistance bands  196  along the assembly slots  192   a  and  192   b  (+/−x) may be facilitated at least in part by resistance wheels  194   a - b.    
     When the user releases the force, such as by releasing the pulling handle (e.g.,  142   a ), the respective cable  186  moves back toward the resistance frame  111  (−x). This causes the pivoting plate assembly  202  to move in the reverse arcuate direction (−y). This further causes the cross beam  198  and resilient resistance bands  196  to move or contract in reverse directions (−x), such that the cables  186  and resilient bands  196  are in a relatively relaxed state. 
     One can appreciate, therefore, that the position of the cross beam  198  relative to the resistance assembly frame  143  has an effect on the angle at which the resilient resistance bands  196  are stretched. In particular, a smaller angle θ between the cross beam  198  and resilient resistance bands  196  provides a greater leverage angle (i.e., easier) to stretch the bands  196 , while a greater angle θ provides a lesser leverage angle (i.e., more difficult) to stretch the bands in the resistance member  118 . Thus, the resistance of the resistance assembly  118  in  FIGS. 6A-6B  can be adjusted by adjusting the resistance angle θ which can be implemented by threaded pivoting member  198   a  along the threaded drive member  200 . 
     In particular, the assembly motor  204  is electrically coupled to the electronic console  144  via respective circuit wires (not shown). The motor  204  can be configured in one implementation to adjust the resistance of the resistance assembly  118  based on user input. For example, when the user selects an anaerobic resistance value, such as by selecting a resistance value at an input interface at the electronic console  144 , a respective electronic signal sent to the motor  204  causes the motor  204  to rotate the threaded drive member  200  a certain amount. The cross beam  198  thus moves along the threaded drive member  200  into a new position, which further causes the pivoting plate assembly  202  to be positioned closer to (or further from) the resistance assembly frame  143 . 
       FIGS. 6A and 6B  further illustrate a repetition sensor  210  that may be used in accordance with the exercise system  100 . In particular, one implementation of a repetition sensor  210  comprises a voltage generator  218  having a frame  220  that is mounted to the resistance assembly  118 , a spring bias  216 , and a coupling member  212  (such as a ribbon) that is attached to the pivoting plate assembly  202 . When the pivoting plate assembly  202  moves with a user&#39;s exercise motion, the coupling member  212  moves a corresponding direction, causing the voltage generator  218  to send an electrical signal to the electronic console  144  through respective electrical wires  210 . 
     A more particular description of using a voltage generator as a repetition sensor to detect anaerobic repetitions is found in commonly-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/916,687 of Kowallis, et al., filed on Aug. 11, 2004 via U.S. Express Mail Number EV 432 689 389 US, entitled “REPETITION SENSOR IN EXERCISE EQUIPMENT”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other sensors may be employed to sense various parameters of the components of the exercise system  100 , such as resistance at the strength training device  106 . 
     The exercise system  100  can also be configured to provide a user with a digital readout of the resistance level chosen. As shown in  FIGS. 1A-B , and  6 A-B, for example, the electronic console  144  can be connected to an anaerobic meter  210 , such as a repetition sensor  210 , for monitoring anaerobic exercises. The electronic console  144  can also be connected to a conventional aerobic meter (not shown) for monitoring aerobic exercise data. The electronic signals received from the anaerobic and aerobic meters (as well as, for example, the stabilizing handles  140 ) then combines, processes, and/or displays data to the user at the electronic console  144 , as appropriate. 
     Furthermore, an implementation of the electronic console  144  comprises an input interface so that a user can control anaerobic or aerobic resistance, rates of exercise, and so forth. For example, a user can select a level of anaerobic resistance at an input interface at the electronic console  144 . The electronic console  144  can then interpret the user input, and send a respective electronic signal to the drive motor  204  of the resistance assembly  118 . After receiving the electronic signal, the motor  204  can then rotate the threaded drive member  200  until the resistance assembly  118  is set to the desired resistance. One will appreciate that similar mechanisms is used to control the resistance and exercise rate of the aerobic exercise system  140 . Accordingly, a wide variety of electronic console mechanisms and displays is employed within the context of the present invention. 
       FIG. 7  illustrates an implementation of one electronic console  144  that can be used in an electronic console system in accordance with the present invention. In particular, the depicted electronic console  144  can be configured to have input and output displays for both a strength training device  106  and an elliptical device  104 . For example, with respect to aerobic exercise data, such an electronic console  144  comprises a counter interface  230  that displays incremental factual data such as calories burned, heart rate, speed of exercise time of exercise, and distance traveled. In one implementation, the user&#39;s heart rate is measured from sensors at handles  142   a - d , etc. and/or sensors at stabilizing members  140 . A selectable “Display” button  230   a  provides a user with the ability to change which data (e.g., which value of time, speed, distance, etc.) are displayed to the user at a given point in time. 
     Although such incremental data is typically applicable for aerobic data, display interface  230  can be implemented with aerobic and anaerobic data, as appropriate. The depicted electronic console  144  further comprises one or more interfaces for providing interactive views and data options. For example, the electronic console  144  comprises a display interface  232  that may be used for indicating the type of program or workout routine in which the user is engaged. A selectable “Next” button  232   a  allows a user to scroll, for example, from one program option to the next. 
     In addition, the depicted electronic console  144  comprises a resistance interface  234  that allows a user to increase or decrease resistance of the strength training device  104  and the elliptical device  104 . For example, the illustrated electronic console  144  can also comprise a selectable decrement button  234   a  (e.g., “−”) and a selectable increment button  234   b  (e.g., “+”) for making the respective resistance adjustments. In one implementation, for example, input from the user at buttons  234   a  and  234   b  causes the electronic console  144  to send a respective data signal to the elliptical device  104 , thereby causing the aerobic resistor  164  to change positions (hence resistance). 
     The depicted electronic console  144  still further comprises additional display interfaces that may be particularly useful for anaerobic exercise data. For example, the electronic console  144  comprises a display interface  236  for setting, displaying, or modifying the number of exercise repetitions, and a similar display interface  238  for setting, displaying, or modifying the number of exercise repetition sets. In particular, selectable “−” button  236   a  and selectable “+” button  236   b  may be configured so that a user can set a target number of reps in a routine. Furthermore, selectable “=” button  238   a , and selectable “+” button  238   b  may also be configured so that a user can set a target number of sets in a routine. 
     An exemplary electronic console  144 , therefore, can take input from the user via one or more selectable buttons (e.g.,  230   a ,  232   a ,  234   a ,  234   b , etc.), and send a respective data signal to the respective aerobic or anaerobic exercise system, as appropriate. Similarly, the electronic console  144  can take an input from the electronic console  144  and send a respective data signal to circuitry in the resistance assembly  118 , thereby causing the motor  204  to modify the position of the cross beam  198  relative to the resilient resistance bands  196 , hence change resistance. Of course, the electronic console  144  can also receive electronic signals from the elliptical exercise device  104 , the resistance assembly  118 , and the gripping handles  142   a - d , and provide the user with relevant information through the relevant display interfaces  230 ,  232 ,  234 ,  236 , and  238 . 
     One will appreciate that the foregoing description for an electronic console in an electronic console system can also be readily modified for multiple electronic consoles in an electronic console system. For example, an elliptical electronic console  144   a  (see  FIG. 1B ) can comprise display interfaces  230 ,  230   a , and  232 , while a strength training electronic console  144   b  (see  FIG. 1B ) can comprise display interfaces  232 ,  232   a ,  234 ,  234   a - b ,  236 ,  236   a - b ,  238 , and  238   a - b . In short, there are a variety of ways in which one or more electronic consoles can be configured to display data to a user at one or more positions on an exercise system  100 . Furthermore, there are a variety of ways in which each such electronic console can be configured to receive specific types of input from a user, or from a given exercise device (e.g., elliptical device  104 , strength training device  106 ). 
       FIG. 8  illustrates one embodiment of the present invention, in block diagram form, representing software modules and system components that are suitable for implementing an electronic console  144  that displays elliptical data and strength training data in an electronic console system. For example, an embodiment of an electronic console  144  comprises a connection to a power source  240 , and further includes a Device I/O (Input/Output) module  246  for receiving and transferring electronic signals. In particular, Device I/O module  246  comprises circuitry for two-way strength training communication  242  to the strength training exercise device  106 , and comprises circuitry for two-way elliptical communication  244  to the elliptical exercise device  104 . The electronic console  144  further comprises an interface for receiving data from sensors at, for example, the stabilizing members  140 , etc. 
     In addition, the exemplary electronic console  144  comprises a processing module  250  that includes, for example, a central processing unit  252  and any other necessary active and/or passive circuitry components to operate the exercise system  100 . For example, the processing module can comprise volatile or non-volatile memory, any magnetic or optical storage media, any capacitors and resistors, any circuit traces for transferring data between components, any status indicators such as light emitting diodes, and any other processing components and so forth as may be appropriate. 
     The electronic console  144  itself may also comprise additional input and output components such as an Ethernet connection port, a telephone connection port, audio in and out ports, optical in and out ports, wireless reception and transmission ports, and so forth. One will appreciate, therefore, that, for the purposes of convenience, not all components and circuit traces that may be used are shown in  FIG. 8 . 
     As shown, the exemplary electronic console  144  comprises a connection to a Display I/O module  260 . In particular, Display I/O module  260  comprises user-interactive display components such as a two-way strength training I/O component  262  for receiving and displaying strength training data (i.e., “anaerobic” data  254 ) to and from a user. The Display I/O module  260  comprises a two-way combination I/O component  264  for receiving and displaying combination data  258  to and/or from the user, and a two-way elliptical I/O component  264  for displaying to the user (and/or receiving from the user) elliptical data (i.e., “aerobic data”)  256 . In one implementation, combination I/O data includes data that is not uniquely strength training or elliptical-based information. For example, combination I/O data may include selection of a generalized workout routine at interface  232 , wherein the workout routine includes instructions to the electronic console  144  for both elliptical and strength training resistance levels. 
     In operation, the processing module  200  can receive anaerobic, or strength training, data  254 , aerobic, or elliptical, data  256 , and combination data  258  from any of the respective strength training device  106 , elliptical device  104 , and the user. For example, the strength training device  106  may send one or more electronic signals to the electronic console  144 . In one implementation, these signals indicate to the electronic console  144  the amount of strength training resistance, or identify the number of strength training exercise repetitions performed, and so forth. 
     In addition, sensors in, for example, the stabilizing handles  140 , can send data signals to the electronic console  144  that can indicate the user&#39;s pulse rate count. Similarly, the elliptical system  104  may send one or more respective electronic signals to the electronic console  144 , such that the electronic console  144  can identify the amount of elliptical resistance, the number of revolutions of the flywheel  124 , the speed of the flywheel  124 , and so forth. 
     In addition to data received from the exercise portions  104 ,  106 , and any other sensors, etc., the processing module  250  can also receive user input through the console&#39;s  144  interactive displays. This user-provided input can include selections for change in resistance, a change in speed, a change in incline, a change in exercise programs, and so forth. The processing module  250  can also receive user data such as the user&#39;s weight, age, height, and any other relevant data that may be useful for providing the user with accurate feedback, or for modulating the duration and intensity of a given workout. 
     When the processing module  250  receives appropriate data, a CPU  252  at the processing module  250  can then execute instructions. For example, the CPU can combine various data such as age, heart rate, exercise speed, weight, resistance, and other such parameters to provide the user with an accurate depiction of the calories burned, distance traveled, and so forth. In some cases, the CPU  252  may simply report the received data directly to a user display, and thus formats received data signals so that they can be read at a respective display. In other cases, the CPU  252  may simply calculate the data using one or more equations, as appropriate, before providing the user with a display value. In still other cases, the CPU  252  may simply format data received from a user (or surmised from a workout), and send the formatted data as a respective electronic signal to a motor at an exercise portion (e.g.,  104 ,  106 ), and so forth. 
     One will appreciate, of course, that an electronic console system configured to implement multiple electronic consoles (e.g.,  144   a ,  144   b , etc.) may vary the implementation of the foregoing software modules and connection interfaces, as appropriate. For example, an electronic console  144   a  configured to display elliptical data may comprise elliptical communication circuitry  244 , aerobic I/O component  266 , and corresponding processing modules. By contrast, an electronic console  144   b  configured to display strength training data may comprise strength training circuitry  242 , as well as the anaerobic I/O component  262 , and corresponding processing modules. 
     Accordingly, the various implementations of the present invention enable a user to readily perform a wide range of elliptical and strength training exercises that are an important part of a workout routine. In particular, the various implementations of the present invention enable a user to perform a wide variety of strength training and elliptical exercises in a relatively small space since the exercise system is compacted or expanded by virtually any user. In addition, electronic data options provide a user with the ability to monitor and/or manipulate data for a wide range of strength training and elliptical exercises. 
     In addition, one of ordinary skill will appreciate that any number of strength training resistance systems such as those related to weight stacks, coil springs, shocks, elastomeric bands, resistance rods or bows or the like may be substituted for the present cable and pulley resistance system  106  within the context of the invention. Furthermore, any number of elliptical exercise systems such as steppers, gliders, skiers, striders, treadmills, exercise bikes, and so forth, can also be implemented in place of the depicted elliptical exercise system  104  within the context of the invention. Thus, an exercise system  100  of the present invention comprises (i) a first exercise device, e.g., elliptical device  104  coupled to frame  102  and (ii) a second exercise device e.g., strength training system  106  coupled to the frame. Frame  102  is configured such that at least a portion of the first exercise device can be compacted and expanded with respect to at least a portion of the second exercise device. 
     Another advantage of system  100  is that strength training exercise device  106  is operable independently from elliptical exercise device  104 . Thus, one user may use elliptical device  104  while a different user uses strength training device  106 . Another advantage of system  100  is that it features an elliptical exercise device, i.e., elliptical device  104 , linked to an anaerobic exercise device  106  through frame  102 , wherein at least a portion of the elliptical exercise device is movably coupled to at least a portion of the strength training device, such that the exercise system is capable of being moved from a compact position to an extended position. For example, it may be more convenient for a first user to use the strength training device  106 , and for a second user to use the elliptical exercise device  104 , while system  100  is in an extended position. 
     The present invention has been described with continued reference to a telescoping frame  102 . The telescoping frame, however, is simply one example of a multi-part frame which acts as an implementation for coupling two exercise devices in this manner. As shown in  FIGS. 9A and 9B , for example, telescoping frame  102  is replaced by a pivoting frame, which is another example of a multi-part frame. In particular, one portion of an exercise device, such as the crank of an elliptical exercise device, may be coupled to a primarily stationary portion  108   c  of the pivoting frame, while a second exercise device may be coupled to a mobile portion  108   d  that swings about a pivot point  108   e.    
     In particular,  FIG. 9A  shows that a portion of the elliptical device  104  can be tilted away from the strength training device  106  for performing elliptical exercises. By contrast,  FIG. 9B  shows that the portion of the elliptical device  104  can be tilted toward the strength training device  106 , such as when performing strength training exercises. As such, one will appreciate that there are a number of ways for providing a multi-part frame having multiple exercise devices thereon. 
     Exercise system  100  disclosed herein may optionally be referred to as comprising: (i) an elliptical exercise assembly, comprising: (A) a frame  102 ; (B) a crank  120  movably coupled to frame  102 ; and (C) first and second foot supports  122   a - b  movably coupled to the crank  120 ; and (ii) a second exercise device (e.g., strength training device  106 ) coupled to the elliptical exercise assembly. At least a portion of the elliptical exercise assembly can be movably positioned closer to and further away from at least a portion of the second exercise device. 
     It should therefore be appreciated that the present invention may be embodied in other forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. As properly understood, the preceding description of specific embodiments is illustrative only and in no way restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims as follows.