CN1946459B - Exercise device with treadles - Google Patents

Abstract

An exercise device including a first monoarm treadle assembly supporting a first tread belt and a second monoarm treadle assembly supporting a second belt. The tread belt is supported on a tread deck between a front roller on each treadle assembly, and a rear roller, which may be a distinct rear roller on each treadle assembly or a single rear roller for both treadle assemblies. The monoarm structure of each treadle assembly supports a plurality of deck supports in a cantilever fashion. The treadmill deck and the belt are supported on the deck supports. Further, the treadles are coupled with one or more hydraulic resistance structures, which may also function as an interconnect structure to coordinate pivotal movement of the treadle assemblies.

Description

Fitness device with pedals

References for related applications

This application is a PCT patent application claiming priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/548,265, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "Exercise Device with Treadles," and filed on February 26, 2004 Priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/548,787, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "Hydraulic Resistance, Arm Exercise, and Non-Motorized Dual Deck Treadmills" for "Control System and Method Priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/548,786 for an Exercise Apparatus, U.S. Nonprovisional Patent Application, filed February 25, 2005, entitled "Exercise Device with Treadles" (which application is otherwise Attorney Docket No.34005/US/2, Express Mail Label No.US 423 777 730 US registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office), the entire contents of these documents can be used by reference in this application. the

This application also requires the U.S. Patent Application No. 10/789,182 filed on February 26, 2004, entitled "Dual Deck Exercise Device"; U.S. Patent Application No. 10/789,294; and priority serial applications of U.S. Patent Application No. 10/789,579, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "System and Method for Controlling an Exercise Apparatus," all documents All can be used for reference in this application. the

As fully set forth herein, the entire contents of this application are incorporated by reference using the subject matter disclosed in the following U.S. applications:

U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/451,104, filed February 28, 2003, entitled "Exercise Device with Treadles";

U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/450,789, filed February 28, 2003, entitled "Dual Deck Exercise Device";

U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/450,890, filed February 28, 2003, entitled "System and Method for Controlling an Exercise Apparatus"; and

U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/548,811, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "Dual Treadmill Exercise Device having a Single Rear Rooler";

U.S. Appearance Application No. 29/176,966, filed February 28, 2003, entitled "Exercise Device with Treadles." the

As fully set forth herein, this application relates to and is referenced in its entirety to the subject matter disclosed in the U.S. application with the same filing date as this application using the following:

U.S. Patent Application No.11/057,538 filed on February 25, 2005 with the title of "Control System and Method for an Exercise Apparatus"; it is also named as Dorsey&Whitney LLP Docket No.34006/US/2 and US ExpressMailNo.EV423 683 099 US registration;

U.S. Patent Application No. 11/065,770, filed February 25, 2005, entitled "Dual Treadmill Exercise Device Having a Single Rear Roller"; it is also named Dorsey&Whitney LLP Docket No. 34007/US/2 and US ExpressMail No. EV 423 777 099 US Registration; and

U.S. Patent Application No. 11/065,746, filed February 25, 2005, entitled "Upper Body Exercise and Flywheel Enhanced Dual Deck Treadmills"; it is also named Dorsey&Whitney LLP Docket No.34103/US/2 and US Express Mail No. EV 423 777 726 US registration. the

field of invention

The present invention relates generally to the field of exercise devices, and more particularly to an exercise device comprising interconnected treads with moving surfaces. The invention also relates to various pedal interconnection mechanisms, pedal damping mechanisms, and pedal reciprocation enhancement mechanisms.

technical background

The health benefits of regular exercise are well known. Over the past period of time, many different types of fitness equipment have been developed to facilitate fitness, each with its own characteristics. Examples of many successful fitness equipment categories include bicycles and stair climbers. A conventional cycle generally includes a continuous endless belt that provides a moving surface on which the user can walk, jog or run. Conventional stair climbing machines generally include a pair of linkages adapted to rotate up and down, thereby providing a pair of surfaces or treads on which a user can stand and exert force up and down to simulate climbing a flight of stairs.

Various embodiments and aspects of the present invention relate to an exercise machine having side-by-side moving surfaces rotatably supported at one end and adapted to rotate up and down at the opposite end. According to a device of the present invention, the arrangement of the two rotating motion surfaces ensures that some or all of the fitness benefits of using a bicycle are provided and some or all of the fitness benefits of using a stair climbing machine are provided. An exercise mechanism consistent with aspects of the present invention can provide additional exercise benefits not realized from a bicycle or stair climbing mechanism alone.

Summary of the invention

One aspect of the present invention relates to an exercise device that includes a first single-arm pedal assembly including a first motion surface and a second single-arm pedal assembly including a second motion surface. In one version, the moving surface is a tread belt supporting a tread deck with front rollers on each tread assembly and which may be a special rear roller on each tread assembly or for both. between the rear rollers of a single rear roller of a pedal assembly. The single-arm structure of each treadle assembly supports multiple deck supports in a cantilevered manner. The pedal deck and belt are supported on the deck supports. With a single arm assembly, the pedal straps of each pedal assembly can be positioned very closely.

Another aspect of the present invention relates to an exercise device that includes a first treadle assembly that may or may not be a single-arm assembly and a second treadle assembly that includes a first exercise surface and a second treadle assembly. The pedal assembly may or may not be a single arm assembly and it includes a second motion surface. A hydraulic resistance member is incorporated between the pedal assemblies to resist up and down pivoting. The hydraulic resistance member may comprise one or more piston-cylinder devices operatively associated with the pedal and/or operatively associated with an interconnecting member connecting the pedal assembly.

Various other aspects of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

In the following, a detailed description will be given with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals indicate like elements, wherein:

Figure 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of an exercise device in accordance with aspects of the present invention;

Figure 2 is a front isometric view of the exercise device shown in Figure 1;

Figure 3 is a bottom isometric view of the exercise device shown in Figure 1;

Figure 4 is a left side view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 5 is a right side view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a top view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 7 is a front view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 8 is a rear view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 9 is a bottom view of the exercise device shown in Figure 2;

Figure 10 is an isometric view of the exercise device shown in Figure 1 with the uprights, decorative panels, stepping straps, and other components removed to better reveal underlying components;

Figure 11 is an isometric view similar to Figure 10, with the tread belt and other parts removed to better show the underlying structure;

Figure 12 is a sectional view along line 12-12 of Figure 7;

Fig. 13 is a sectional view along line 13-13 shown in Fig. 4;

Figure 14 is a close-up isometric view of the front of the left pedal and left front roller;

Figure 15 is a close-up isometric view of the front portion of the right pedal, particularly illustrating the belt adjustment assembly;

Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view along line 16-16 in Figure 10;

Figure 17 is a sectional view along line 17-17 in Figure 10;

Figure 18 is an exploded view of the belt adjustment assembly;

Figure 19A is a top view of the angle adjustment plate;

Figure 19B is a front view of the angle adjustment plate in Figure 19A;

Figure 19C is a side view of the angle adjustment plate in Figure 19A;

Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view along line 20-20 in Figure 4;

Figure 21 is a sectional view along line 21-21 in Figure 4;

Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view along line 22-22 in Figure 21;

Figure 23 is a close-up perspective view of Figure 21;

Figure 24 is an exploded view of a rear roller assembly according to aspects of the present invention;

Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view along line 25-25 in Figure 11;

Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view along line 26-26 in Figure 11;

Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view along line 27-27 in Figure 11;

Figure 28 is a cross-sectional view along line 27-27 in Figure 11;

29 is a schematic illustration of a valve assembly according to aspects of the invention;

Fig. 30 is a close-up rear isometric view of the exercise device of Fig. 1 with many parts removed to illustrate the interconnect structure and hydraulic resistance structure;

Figure 31 is a rear isometric view similar to Figure 30, with auxiliary components removed to illustrate the interconnect structure and hydraulic resistance structure;

Figure 32 is an isometric view similar to Figure 31, with other components removed to illustrate the interconnection structure and hydraulic resistance structure;

Figure 33 is a cross-sectional view along line 33-33 in Figure 4;

Figure 34 is an isometric view of an interconnect structure and other components;

35A-35E show the exercise device of FIG. 1 moving through a half cycle, wherein the right pedal moves from the upside position shown in FIG. 35A to the downside position shown in FIG. 35E, while the left side pedal The lower position shown in 35A is moved to the upper position shown in Figure 35E;

36 is an isometric view of the exercise device of FIG. 1 with various components removed to better illustrate the right side pedal in a higher position and the left side pedal in a lower position;

Figure 37 is a front isometric view of the exercise device in the configuration shown in Figure 38;

Figure 38 is a left side view of the exercise device shown in Figure 36;

Figure 39 is a right side view of the exercise device shown in Figure 36;

Figure 40 is a partial cross-sectional view along line 41-41 of Figure 36, but with the right pedal in the down position instead of the up position;

Figure 41 is a sectional view along line 41-41 of Figure 36;

Figure 42 is a cross-sectional view along line 43-43 of Figure 36 in relation to the orientation shown in Figure 40;

Figure 43 is a sectional view along line 43-43 of Figure 36;

Figure 44 is an isometric view of the piston-cylinder valve resistance member arrangement of Figure 44;

Figure 45 is a side sectional view of the valve resistance member arrangement of the piston-cylinder shown in Figure 44;

Figure 46 is a front view of an exercise device having the piston-cylinder valve arrangement of Figure 44 coupled to the shaft of the interconnection assembly;

Figure 47 is an isometric view of the exercise device of Figure 46;

48 is a close-up isometric view of the piston-cylinder valve arrangement of FIG. 44 in combination with the shaft of the interconnection assembly shown in FIG. 47;

Figure 49 is an isometric sectional view of an alternative piston-valve arrangement;

Figure 50 is a front isometric view of the hydraulic resistance assembly of Figure 49;

Figure 51 is a bottom view of an exercise device utilizing an alternative interconnect building block and piston-cylinder valve resistance structure arrangement;

Figure 52 is a bottom isometric view of the exercise device of Figure 51;

Figure 53 is a left side isometric view of the exercise device of Figure 51;

Figure 54 is a left side isometric view similar to Figure 53, further illustrating a schematic view of the internal valve components of the valve assembly;

Figure 55 is a partial isometric view of the front portion of the right side pedal emphasizing the front side adjustment assembly;

Figure 56 is a partial isometric view emphasizing the front portion of the right side step of the deck and fender support assembly.

Detailed description

Referring to FIG. 1 , the structure of a fitness device 10 of the present invention can provide users with walking exercise, striding exercise or mountain-climbing exercise combining walking and striding. Exercise devices typically include two footrest assemblies 12, 14 (referred to herein as "pedals" or "pedal assemblies") pivotally connected to a frame, So that the pedals can be turned up and down about the common axis 16 or in the region of the common axis. Each pedal includes a moving surface, such as a belt 18 in the form of a pedal. Typically, the rear portion of each step is rotatably supported on the frame, and the front portion of each step is reciprocally supported up and down. In use, a user will walk, jog or run on the steps, and the steps will pivotally reciprocate about a common axis.

The pedals 12, 14 are arranged in such a way that upward movement of one pedal is effected by downward movement of the other pedal. In some embodiments, the pedals are interconnected so that upward or downward rotation of one pedal is coupled to upward or downward movement, respectively, of the other pedal. However, the reciprocating motion may be varied by user input, but not by the connection structure between the pedals. In one approach, the pedals (12, 14) are interconnected by an interconnecting member or assembly such that up/down motion of one pedal is accomplished by down/up motion of the other pedal. Additionally, a device of the present invention includes a resistance member (or members), such as hydraulic shocks, associated with each pedal to provide resistance or damping to the downward movement of the pedal. The reciprocating motion in which one pedal moves upward and the other pedal moves downward can also be achieved by making a restoring member such as a spring reciprocate together with the resistance member. The combination of the motion surface provided by the pedal strap 18 and the reciprocating motion of the pedals (coordinated or uncoordinated) can provide an exercise similar to climbing on a slack surface, such as walking, jogging or running on a sand dune, where Each upward and forward motion of the foot occurs simultaneously with a backward and downward slide of the foot. With this type of climbing-like exercise, there are very significant cardiovascular benefits and other health benefits. And, as will be understood from the description below, very significant health benefits can be achieved in a low-impact manner. Embodiments of the present invention may have locking structures that substantially prevent rotation so that exercise device 10 provides a pair of non-rotating moving surfaces for walking, jogging, and running.

The embodiment of exercise device 10 shown in FIG. 1 does not show the various protective and decorative panels that may be used in the device for sale. Figure 2 is a front isometric view of the exercise device shown in Figure 1 . 3 is a bottom isometric view of the exercise device of FIGS. 1 and 2 . 1-9 show left, right, top, front, rear and bottom views, respectively, of the exercise device shown in FIGS. 1-3.

1-9 and other views, the exercise device includes a first treadle assembly 12 and a second treadle assembly 14, each having a front portion 12A, 14A and a rear portion 12B, 14B. The rear of the pedal assembly is rotatably supported on the rear of the exercise device. The front portion of the treadle assembly is supported above the frame and is capable of reciprocating movement in a substantially upward and downward manner during use. It is also possible to rotatably support the pedals at the front of the exercise device and support the rear of the pedal assembly above the frame. Each pedal assembly supports an endless belt or "tread belt" that rotates across deck 20 and around front rollers 22 and rear rollers 24 to provide a forward or rearward moving surface. The pedaling belt can be of conventional pedal belt construction and materials. Alternatively, the belt may be polyester with a PVC coating. For lubrication, the belt can also be impregnated with silicon. This belt is manufactured by SieglingTM. In addition to the tread belt, other moving surfaces may be provided in embodiments of the present invention. Such moving surfaces include a plurality of rollers positioned between front and rear rollers, as well as other rollers used by reference in various applications.

The user may exercise on the device facing the front 12A, 12B of the pedal assembly (referred to herein as "forward use") or may exercise on the device facing the rear 12B, 14B of the pedal assembly (referred to herein as "forward use"). , called "backward use"). Here, the terms "front", "rear" and "right" are used according to the viewing angle of a user standing on the device in normal forward use of the device. In any type of use, while the user may walk, jog, run and/or stride on the exercise device with each of the user's feet contacting one pedal assembly, when the user is exercising vigorously, Sometimes both feet are forced off the pedal assembly. In forward use, the user's left foot typically only contacts the left pedal assembly 12 and the user's right foot typically only contacts the right pedal assembly 14 . Alternatively, in rearward use, the user's left foot normally only contacts the right pedal assembly and the user's right foot only contacts the left pedal assembly.

Exercise devices according to aspects of the present invention may provide stride motion only, stride motion only, or a combination of stride motion and stride motion. For striding motion, the pedal assemblies (12, 14) do not reciprocate and the belt 18 rotates. The term "stride motion" refers to any typical human stride motion, such as walking, jogging and running. For striding motion, the pedal assembly reciprocates and the belt does not rotate around the rollers. The term "striding motion" refers to any typical striding motion, such as the motion of a person climbing stairs, using a conventional striding exercise device, climbing a hill, and the like.

As noted above, the rear portion (12B, 14B) of each pedal assembly is rotatably supported on the rear portion of exercise device 10. As shown in FIG. The front portion (12A, 14A) of each treadle assembly is supported above the front portion of the exercise device so that the treadle assembly can pivot upward and downward. When the user steps on the pedal, it (including the belt) will turn downward. As will be described in further detail below, the treadle assemblies may be interconnected such that downward or upward movement of one treadle assembly will cause a corresponding upward or downward movement of the other treadle assembly. Thus, when the user steps on one pedal, it will turn downwards while the other pedal will turn upwards. By moving the pedal assembly up and down, the pedaling belt can provide a moving traversing surface for a user to perform a combination of striding and striding exercises.

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, 9 and other figures, the exercise device includes a frame 26 with a main frame 28 on the lower side. The frame provides conventional structural support for the moving and other components of the exercise device. The lower main frame member includes an integral left side panel 30 , right side panel 32 , front panel 34 , rear panel 36 and bottom panel 38 . The frame can be placed directly on the floor or can be supported on adjustable legs, mats, vibrators or a combination thereof. In the application of Figures 1-9, adjustable legs 40 are provided at the bottom front left and front right corners of the bottom frame panel.

The left upright 42 is connected to the frame at the rear end region of the left side panel 30 . The right side column 44 is connected to the frame at the front end area of the right side panel. The uprights generally extend upwardly from the frame in a forward angled orientation. A handle 46 extends laterally to the top of each upright. In the devices of Figs. 1-3 etc., the handle adopts a linear tubular structure. The handles are generally arranged in the same plane as the respective lower side panels (30, 32) and extend substantially the entire length of the pedal. During use of exercise device 10, the handle is adapted to be grasped by the user. The console 48 is supported between the front regions of the handles. The console may include one or more cup holders, a fitness display, and one or more recesses adapted to hold keys, cell phones, or other personal items. Additional transverse handles 50 extend between the fronts of each side panel. The lateral handle may include a heart rate extraction device for providing a heartbeat signal to a heart rate monitor and display in the console.

10 is an isometric view of the exercise device 10 shown in FIGS. 1-9 with the uprights (42, 44) and stepping straps 18 removed to better reveal partially and fully hidden components. With the tread belts removed, 20 can be seen which is arranged underneath and supports each tread belt. FIG. 11 is an isometric view of the exercise device shown in FIG. 10 with the deck 20 further removed to reveal the treadle frame assembly 52 . Each treadle assembly includes a treadle frame having an outer member 54 and a plurality of deck supports 56 extending inwardly from the outer member to support the deck. While the outboard members and deck supports are steel products, they could be manufactured from other materials such as aluminum. A fender 58 or "fender" is attached to the inner end of the deck support. Although steel can also be used for the fender, it can be made of other materials, such as aluminum or plastic.

Outer member 54 of each pedal frame assembly 52 is rotatably supported at the rear region of the exercise device. The outboard member extends forwardly from the rear pivot support member 60 along most of the length of the lower frame. Here, no inner frame elements are provided that are substantially parallel to the outer parts. In conventional treadmills, there are typically outer and inner frame members, and a deck support is disposed and supported between the inner and outer frame members. In some arrangements of the invention shown here, the pedal frame assembly has an outer frame member, but no inner frame member. In addition, plate supports 56 are connected to and supported by the outer frame members 54, but are not supported by the inner frame members. Thus, the deck support support is supported at one point or only along a discontinuous length extent (eg, an end region of the deck support).

In the construction shown in Figure 11, the deck supports are supported on one end region by the outer tread frame members and carry the load of the deck along their length. It is also possible to support the deck supports other than at the ends. In any case, in an arrangement, the deck supports 56 may have a cantilever, wherein the deck supports are supported at one end or at a fulcrum and gain a The side bears the load (ie, the deck).

Since there are no frame members at the inner ends of the deck supports 56 , the pedal assemblies ( 12 , 14 ) can be positioned with a small gap or distance between the inner edges of the corresponding tread belts 18 . During straddling motions, many users have very little lateral separation between their feet and legs. Placing the pedals in close proximity helps to ensure that these users can maintain a natural stride and properly engage their feet with the pedaling belt 18 during use. Additionally, by eliminating the two forwardly extending inner frame rails (one for each pedal assembly) through the cantilevered deck support 56, the exercise device can be reduced in size without significantly reducing the width of the treadle belt. 10 overall width, which is beneficial for homes and health clubs where floor space is scarce.

Fig. 12 is a cross-sectional view along line 12-12 in Fig. 7 . As shown in Figures 11, 12 and other figures, each pedal assembly includes a fender 58 or "baffle". In one arrangement, the fender, which may be fabricated from steel, aluminum, polymer or other suitable material, defines a very thin generally triangular or trapezoidal plate. The fender is attached to the inner end at the end where the deck support 56 is attached to the outer frame member 54 . The fenders can be welded or bolted to the deck support or connected to an intermediate part (not shown) connected to the deck support. Typically, the fenders extend slightly upward and downward from the inner end of the deck support. The top edges of the fenders are generally aligned with the tops of the corresponding decks 20 . The front edge of the fender extends downwardly and is generally perpendicular to the front of the pedal assembly (12, 14). The guard plate does not provide longitudinal support of the treadle assembly or longitudinal support of the deck support, but prevents the user's foot or lower leg from slipping off the treadle belt and from being pinched under another treadle assembly or between treadle assemblies . The fenders provide very little front and rear support for the deck support. However, the fender is not connected to the rear roller or any other structure at the rear end of the fender. 36-39 (described in more detail below) show the left pedal in the downside position and the right pedal in the upside position, and further show that during operation, the gap between the baffle and the adjacent pedals relation. When one treadle assembly is in its uppermost position and the other treadle assembly is in its lowest position, the lower edge of the fender is disposed below the top edge of the opposing treadle assembly. Due to the close arrangement of the pedal assemblies to each other, the baffles are arranged in a very close manner and may sometimes touch.

Still referring to FIG. 11 , front rollers 22 are rotatably supported at the front (12A, 14A) of each pedal frame 52 and rear rollers 24 are rotatably supported at the rear (12B, 14B) of each pedal frame 52 . Like the platen support 56, the front roller 22 is supported in a cantilever structure. In particular, the right front roller is rotatably supported outboard of the right pedal assembly 14 by the outboard member 54 , and the left front roller is rotatably supported outboard of the left pedal assembly 12 by the left outboard member 54 . The inside edges of each front roller 22 are close to each other. Baffles 58 (left and right) are supported at the inside edges of the respective front rollers. The baffles provide insignificant longitudinal (vertical or horizontal) support for the rollers. Additionally, the inner end of each roller is unsupported.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 13-13 in FIG. 10 . Referring to right roller 22R (left roller 22L etc. being a mirror image of the right roller), the roller includes a roller shaft 62 rotatably supported within a belt adjustment assembly 64 at the front end of the pedal frame outboard member 54 . It should be noted that in some instances, to facilitate understanding, the designation "R" or "L" is used with part numbers to designate right (R) or left (L) parts. In many instances, although each part and/or assembly has two similar or several parts, only one of these parts has been described in detail. For example, there are two pedal assemblies 54, right and left, but each is so similar that they are described as one or only one is specified. The roller also includes an elongated generally cylindrical outer surface rotatably supported on the shaft by radial bearings. The trodden belt engages the outer surface of the roller.

To adjust the tension and trajectory of the pedal belt, either the front roller 22 or the rear roller 24 is adjustably connected to the pedal frame. In one particular arrangement, each front roller 22 is adjustably connected to the front of each outboard step frame member 54 . 14-18 illustrate a belt adjustment assembly 64 used in one particular application of the invention. In particular, Figure 14 is a partial isometric view of a belt adjustment assembly disposed at the front end region of the outboard frame member in the left side pedal assembly. Figure 14 also shows the front rollers of the left treadle assembly and the forwardmost deck support. Figure 15 is an isometric view of the belt adjustment assembly disposed at the front end region of the outboard frame member in the right side pedal assembly. Like many other features of exercise devices, the left and right belt adjustment assemblies are substantially mirror images of each other, and therefore, a discussion with reference to one of the belt adjustment assemblies can be considered fully applicable to the other belt adjustment assembly. 16 and 17 are cross-sectional views of the belt adjustment assembly taken along lines 16-16 and 17-17 in FIG. 10, respectively. FIG. 18 is an exploded view of the belt adjustment assembly of FIG. 15. FIG.

Referring to Figures 14-18 and other views, each front roller has a shaft 62 extending outwardly from the outer end of the roller. The outwardly extending end of the shaft has a threaded bore 66 transverse to the longitudinal axis of the shaft. The belt adjustment assembly includes a belt tensioner plate 68 slidably supported in lower side plate 70 and upper side plate 72 . The lower and upper side panels are bolted to panels 74 at the forward ends of the outer frame members. Upper and lower side panels extend forward from the outer member and are arranged in substantially parallel planes. A slot 76 is defined along the length of the lower side plate 70 and the upper side plate 72 . The tension plate 68 defines a tab 78 extending outwardly from the upper edge and a second tab extending outwardly from the lower edge. The tabs are slidably supported within corresponding slots in the lower and upper side panels. Additionally, the tension plate defines an axle bore 80 , preferably circular and having a diameter slightly larger than the axle 62 of the front roller 22 . The axis of the bore is generally perpendicular to the outer member and is adapted to receive and support the shaft of the front roller. The tension plate also defines a threaded hole 82 in communication with the shaft hole and adapted to align with the threaded hole 66 in the front side shaft when the shaft is positioned in the shaft hole 80 .

Axle bolt support plate 84 is secured to the front end of adjustment assembly 64, preferably by bolts threaded into corresponding holes in the front portions of the lower and upper side plates. Axle bolt support plate 84 defines a threaded bore 86 adapted to receive an axle bolt 88 . As mentioned above, a threaded hole 66 is defined in the front roller shaft. When the shaft 62 is positioned in the shaft hole 80, the shaft bolt is threaded into the hole of the bolt tension plate and the roller shaft to move the bolt tension plate back and forth and secure the shaft in the hole. In this way, the front rollers can be adjusted fore and aft to facilitate setting the belt 18 around the front and rear rollers, and the tension of the belt can be adjusted once the belt is set around the rollers and at any time thereafter.

It is also possible to adjust the angle of the front rollers relative to the outer part. 19A, 19B and 19C are top, front and side views, respectively, of the belt tensioner plate 68 . As shown, the tabs 78 extending from the upper and lower portions of the belt tensioner plate are not rectangular. Instead, the rear inner surface (the surface facing the roller) and the front outer surface (the surface facing away from the roller) of the upper and lower tabs are slightly sloped or curved. In the example shown in Figure 19A, the bend is about 2°. However, other curvatures are also possible. Referring to Figures 16 and 18, the angle adjustment plate 90 is fixed between the lower and upper side plates (70, 72) by bolts. The angle adjustment plate defines a threaded hole adapted to receive the angle adjustment bolt 92 . The angle adjustment bolt engages the outside surface of the belt tensioner plate 68 to position the tensioner plate within the slot 76 at an angle. In this way, the angular orientation of the front rollers can be adjusted. When the belt 18 is placed around the front and rear rollers (22, 29), a force of several hundred pounds can be applied to the rollers, pushing the front rollers backwards. Increasing the engagement of the angle adjustment bolt relative to the tension plate enables the other end of the roller to rotate forward against the rearward force from the belt. Conversely, reducing the engagement of the angle adjustment bolt relative to the tension plate allows the belt to swing the roller rearwardly as the front roller overcomes the rearward force exerted by the belt tension. In this way, the roller can be angularly positioned to ensure it is aligned with the direction of belt motion, helping to ensure that the belt is exactly centered on the roller during use.

The tension exerted on the pedal frame 52 by the belt may also cause the outboard member 54 to deflect slightly inwardly. To counteract this deflection, the outer frame members can be formed with outward camber. Thus, when the pedals are under tension by the belt, the outboard member will deflect into an orientation that is completely in line or at right angles to the rear axle 16 . This deflection can vary slightly due to material and manufacturing tolerances of the outboard components as well as variations in belt tension. Angle adjustment of the front rollers allows fine adjustment of the orientation of the rollers to match the direction of movement of the rear rollers and belt. In a particular arrangement, each cantilevered outboard member has a camber of between 0.25° and 0.5° relative to the rear axis. The camber angle causes the treads (12, 14) to be slightly offset from each other before securing the belt around the rollers.

Referring to Figure 10, a belt deck 20 is located on top of each pedal frame. In one particular arrangement, the deck is supported in a cantilevered structure on deck supports 56 extending laterally from the outer step frame members 54 . The deck may be bolted directly to the deck support, to a frame integrated with a deck cushioning or deck suspension system, or loosely mounted to the pedal frame. Each belt deck 20 is located between a respective front roller 22 and rear roller 24 in each treadle assembly (12, 14). The belt deck is sized to provide a tread platform for most or all of the upper portion of the tread belt 18 between the rollers. In one embodiment, the deck is approximately 1" thick and has an MDF core and ATO sheets in the upper and lower runs of the deck. The deck edge may include a Damaged chamber.

FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view along line 20-20 in FIG. 4, and FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view along line 21-21 in FIG. Referring to Figures 11, 20 and 21, the outer or outer pedal frame member 54 is preferably a square tubular member with inner, outer, upper and lower walls. As an alternative, round tubular members or other shaped members may be used. A set of deck support holes 94 are defined in the inner and outer walls of each outer frame member. The deck support holes in the inner and outer walls are aligned and they are capable of supporting deck supports generally perpendicular to the outer frame members. In one approach, the deck supports are press fit into the outer frame members. It is also possible to weld the deck supports to the outer parts. As shown in Figures 20, 21 and others, the outer end regions of the deck support are positioned within holes in the inner and outer walls of the outer member. In this way, although the deck support is supported at two locations, since the deck support is usually supported in one area (between the inner and outer walls of the outer part) and part of the deck support (in this In this case a large part of the inside of the support) extends from this support area, so this arrangement is still considered cantilevered. In certain versions of the exercise device shown in FIGS. 1-20 and other figures, the deck support is a generally cylindrical member. Other shapes are also possible, such as square tube parts.

Referring to FIGS. 11 and 21 and other views, each deck support 56 includes a protrusion 96 in the vicinity of the outer step frame members 54 . Each protrusion defines a threaded hole substantially perpendicular to the overlying deck 20 . The threaded holes receive corresponding bolts 98 that secure the deck to the deck supports. Bolt heads extend upwardly from the top of the deck. As can be seen most clearly in Figures 1, 2 and 6, the outer ends of the straps 18 are slightly inboard of the bolt heads so as not to interfere or rub against the bolt heads. Alternatively, the bolt heads may be countersunk holes in the top surface of the deck, in which case the straps may cover the bolts.

Referring to Figures 11, 21 and other views, a rubber, neoprene, polyurethane or other soft resilient deck suspension member 100 is provided near the inner end of each deck support. The deck suspension members are generally cylindrical, but other shapes and sizes can be used. The deck suspension parts are disposed between the deck and the corresponding deck suspension parts. During use, the user's stepping force is transmitted through the belt and the platform to compress the suspension components. In this way, the suspension components help reduce impact pressure and provide a slightly softer pedaling pattern during use. Additionally, upon impact, the deck supports may deflect slightly downwards to be able to assist in reducing impact stress to some extent. The upper surface of each deck suspension member is generally flat and aligned with the upper side edge of the corresponding protrusion 96 so as to be able to support the deck smoothly. Although not shown, the pins extend from the lower surface of the deck suspension member. To secure the suspension part to the deck support, the pins should be pressed into corresponding holes (also not shown) in the deck support. The pin can be secured in the hole by threading, press fit, snap fit or other means.

The deck suspension member may also include a soft elastic suspension sleeve or strap. In one example, the diameter of the sleeve is slightly smaller than the deck support. To secure the sleeve to the deck support, the sleeve extends through the deck support and is held in place by the restraining force of the sleeve. The sleeve can take any width so that it can be placed along only a portion of the deck support or along the entire length of the deck support. The deck support also has a circumferential groove or cutout to hold the hanging sleeve laterally. Alternatively, instead of a suspension member, the deck support may comprise a stiff (incompressible) member on the deck support.

The rear of each pedal assembly (12, 14) is rotatably supported on the rear of the frame so that each pedal assembly can rotate up and down. The front of each pedal assembly is supported on the frame by one or more damping or "resistance" members, interconnecting members, or combinations thereof. Depending on the construction, the pedal assemblies can be rotated independently, or relative to each other (ie, one is rotated up while the other is rotated down).

22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 22-22 in FIG. 4 . FIG. 23 is an enlarged partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 22 . Referring to Figures 7, 11, 22, 23 and other views, each pedal assembly (12, 14) is rotatably supported near the rear of the frame. In one particular aspect, left and right rear axle support assemblies 60 are provided at or near the left and right rears of each respective pedal assembly and generally the exercise device. The rear axle bearing assembly rotatably supports the rear axle 102 (in one version, the common axis of rotation of the pedals). The rear shaft extends between the left and right support assemblies and rotatably supports the left and right pedal assemblies. The rear axle can be a continuous part or an assembly of different parts.

Referring particularly to Fig. 11, at the rear of the exercise device, a sleeve 104 extends inwardly from the top surface of each side panel (30, 32) at the rear of the device. Secure the rear axle bearing assemblies to each corresponding bracket. Each rear axle support 60 includes a pair of laterally offset lower bearing supports 106 and a corresponding pair of laterally offset upper bearing supports 108 . The lower and upper bearing supports each have semicircular features that cooperate to define a circular bore for supporting the radial ball bearing assembly 110. The ends of the rear axles are rotatably supported within respective rear axle support assemblies. Each rear axle bearing assembly includes two spaced apart radial ball bearings 110 . As can be seen most clearly in Figures 22 and 23, each end region of the rear axle is rotatably supported by a pair of laterally offset radial ball bearings.

Referring to FIGS. 22 , 23 and 24 (exploded views of the rear roller assembly), the rear roller assembly 112 includes left and right rear rollers 24 . As shown, the rear roller assembly has two distinct belt engaging surfaces (left and right rollers); however, the roller assembly presents a single continuous outer surface. It is possible to have a single rear roller with a single shaft, a pair of different rollers on a single shaft or pairs of shafts. Furthermore, there may be a common axis between the rollers and the treads, or different axes between the rollers and the treads. For example, the pedal may turn about a line that is in front of, in front of, and below, etc. the roller.

Each rear roller section includes an outer cylindrical member 114 rotatably supported on the rear side shaft 102 by inboard and outboard bearings (116, 118). The pedaling strap of each pedal assembly engages a corresponding outer cylindrical member. In one aspect, each cylindrical member defines a slightly convex outer profile, and the apex of the raised portion is disposed circumferentially about the midpoint of the cylindrical member. The convex shape helps keep the pedaling belt centered on the rear roller. In a particular version, the outer cylindrical part has a radial dimension increasing from the outer edge towards the longitudinal center of the outer cylindrical part. The increased radial dimension may be uniform or may be progressive such that the increased radial dimension is substantially the same radial dimension centered on the midpoint of the outer cylindrical member. Alternatively, outer cylindrical member 114 may define a uniform radial dimension along the length of the cylinder.

In addition to the raised or convex shape of the rear roller (a raised front roller can also be provided), in one version of the invention, a belt guide 118 (see Figures 10, 25, 27 and other views) is included which is fixed to The deck is located just in front of the rear roller assembly 112 to help maintain the alignment of the belt 18 . The belt guide has a tapered or inclined surface that engages the outside edge of the tread belt. The stride of the human body has primarily a longitudinal force component that creates a forward thrust during the stride. However, most also have a slight outward or lateral force component during the span. This lateral force component acts on the belt, causing the belt to misalign. In particular, the rear of the belt is forced outward on the rear roller. Accordingly, the belt guide is positioned on the pedal to engage the outer rear surface of the tread belt. The interaction of the belt guides on the belt helps keep the belt properly aligned between the rollers to counteract most user lateral spanning forces.

Referring to Figures 22, 23 and 24, in a particular version, the rear side axle 102 supports the rear roller assembly of each pedal assembly. Accordingly, the left and right rear rollers are rotatably supported about a common rear axis which is also a common rear rotational axis of the pedals. In one particular aspect, the rear side shaft 102 has a first (left) portion 120 and a second (right) portion 122 . Each rear axle section includes a shaft, and the outer ends of the axles project from the associated rollers and are supported by respective axle bearing assemblies 60 . The inner ends of each shaft section are held together by a sleeve 120 (also referred to herein as a "collar"). The outer cylinders of each roller are forced through the sleeves, effectively engaging the outer cylinders with each other (and the rollers with each other) so that they can rotate in tandem. The sleeves are rotatably supported by radial ball bearings 118 provided in pairs at the inner ends of each portion of the rear side shaft. The outer ends of each roller are also supported by radial ball bearings 116 adjacent to the respective shaft support assembly. Thus, each roller is rotatably supported on the rear axle by radial ball bearings positioned towards each side of the roller. In addition, the rollers rotate together about the rear axis through the sleeve.

If integrated by the sleeve 124, the roller assembly rotatably supported on the shaft portions (120, 124) provides structurally rigid support along the back of the two pedal assemblies (12, 14). In particular, the rollers and sleeves are rotatably supported on the rear axle by four radial ball bearings (116, 118). Thus, the roller is rotatably connected to the rear axle. In addition, each outer end portion of each portion of the rear axle is supported within a respective support assembly 60 by a pair of bearings 110 . The roller assembly avoids the need for some type of shaft support bracket or similar device that engages the frame along the length of the shaft between the ends.

During use, as each pedal is rotated, the corresponding shaft portion (120, 122) is also rotated. However, the shaft parts turn in opposite directions; therefore, when one part turns clockwise, the other part turns counterclockwise, and vice versa. Through the structure of the roller assembly and the shaft portion, while the rollers rotate together, the shaft can rotate in the opposite direction. The sleeve provides the connection between the rollers while supporting the rear axle section to provide a virtually unitary rear axle.

As mentioned above, the outboard step frame members rotate about the same axis 102 as rollers. Referring to FIG. 22 , the outboard pedal frame members 54 are connected to the rear axles between the inner and outer bearing support assemblies ( 106 , 108 ) of the respective support assemblies 60 . Axle portions ( 120 , 122 ) are secured to respective outboard pedal frame members 54 . A shaft extends outwardly from the outboard pedal frame member. The outwardly extending shaft portion is supported in the outboard bearing support assembly. Additionally, a rod extends inwardly from the outboard pedal frame member. The inwardly extending shaft portion is supported in the inboard bearing support assembly. The radial ball bearings of the rear support assembly rotatably support the rear side shaft in two positions relative to either side of the outboard member. The inwardly extending portion of the respective shaft portion also supports the respective roller. Thus, the pedals are pivotable up and down on the rear side axle, and the rollers are pivotable.

In order to maintain proper tolerances, the roll may be machined in three sections (ie, the central sleeve section 124 and the two outer roll sections 114). To assemble the roll, the inner bearing 118 is pressed into the middle section, followed by pressing the left and right outer sections onto the center section. To complete the roll assembly, the outboard bearings 116 are pressed into the bearing brackets 126 and then they are pressed into the ends of the outboard sections. Some embodiments do not include a bearing cage. While the roll can be made from a single piece, processing time and cost can be higher than a three-piece assembly.

A three-piece roller assembly can provide some additional advantages. First, the rear roller assembly provides a hypothetical axle allowing the axle portion to rotate independently with the pedal assembly while also supporting the roller assembly for rotation in one direction. As described in more detail below, the drive motor is belted to a drive pulley 128 directly connected to the roller assembly to drive the travel belt. Second, the rear roller assembly acts as one of a mechanism to resist belt tension and torque generated by the user. This is one reason for installing inner and outer bearings in the rear roll. The contact points of the bearings form long lever arms to withstand the forces mentioned above. The bearings are mounted to the shaft welded to the pedal arm above. The rear roller rotates freely around the shaft.

Bearings 10 are also provided on the inner and outer sides of each pedal member 54 . The location of these four bearings plays a number of roles. First, they support the pedal assembly vertically. Second, they allow the pedals to turn up and down 10° in one example. Third, they provide a secondary mechanism for resisting belt tension and user torque applied to the pedals. This design is one aspect of strength that allows the use of single-arm pedals (eg, outboard member 54 ) and allows them to interact as one member, yet still be able to perform their primary function independently.

To drive the rollers 24 which themselves drive each trodden belt 18, a drive pulley 128 is fixed to one of the rollers. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 11 . Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 26-26. As shown in Figures 25, 26 and other views, in one particular version, the drive shaft pulley is secured to the outside surface of the right side roller. More particularly, the drive pulley is secured to the outboard surface adjacent the rear axle bearing assembly 60 near the outer end of the right roller. However, it is possible to fix the drive pulley to the left end region adjacent to the left axle bearing assembly, or somewhere along the length of the rollers between the left and right end regions, such as between rollers where a slightly larger spacing between the pedals is required. Secure the motor 130 to the bottom frame panel. Directly in front of the motor, there is the motor control panel that supports the motor controller, processor and other electronics that control the speed of the motor and other functions. Figure 9 is a bottom view showing the motor mounting holes and the electronic control panel mounted on the bottom frame panel.

Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 27-27. As shown in Figures 26, 27 and other views, the motor shaft 134 extends outwardly from the sides of the motor. The motor should be mounted in such a way that the motor shaft is substantially parallel to the drive shaft 102 (eg, the rear shaft of the rear wheel assembly). Furthermore, pulleys of different diameters can be connected to the motor shaft. Connect a drive belt 136 between the drive pulley and the motor shaft (or use a motor shaft pulley). Thus, the motor is capable of turning the rear roller assembly 112 . The rollers themselves in turn turn each pedal's pedaling belt.

Figure 28 is a side view taken along line 28-28. Referring first to FIGS. 26 , 27 and 28 , in one aspect of the invention, a belt tensioner assembly 138 is employed to ensure proper tension on the drive belt 136 . The belt tensioning assembly includes a tensioning arm 140 rotatably coupled to a tensioning bracket 142 attached to the bottom panel 38 . The pivotal connection of the tensioning arm away from the tensioning arm 140 rotatably supports the tensioning wheel 144 . The tensioner engages the drive belt between the drive pulley 128 and the motor shaft 134 . The orientation of the tensioning arm can be adjusted to apply the proper tension on the drive belt. During use, variable loads act on the tread belt, which in turn produces variable forces on the rear roller. Typically, the tensioning arm is adjusted so that the drive belt does not slip on the drive pulley or motor shaft (or motor pulley) due to the variable force applied during use. In addition, the belt tensioning assembly can provide a convenient way to adjust the tension of the drive belt to ensure that the drive belt is tensioned for a long time.

As an optional aspect, an elastic drive belt requiring no tensioner is used. An example of an elastic strap that may be employed in embodiments consistent with the present invention is a Hutchingon Flexonic™ strap.

A flywheel 146 may be fixed to an outwardly extending end region of the motor shaft. During use, the tread belt 18 slides over the plate 20 with a specific kinetic friction depending on different parameters including the material of the belt and deck and the downward force on the belt. In some cases, with increased kinetic friction between the belt and the deck, the belt will lightly adhere to the deck as the user walks on the belt. In addition to the force exerted by the motor to turn the belt, the flywheel affixed to the motor shaft has an angular momentum component that helps overcome the increased kinetic friction and helps provide a balanced treading belt motion.

As can be seen most clearly in Fig. 22, each roller portion 22 and sleeve 124 combined with the rollers are rotatably supported on the rear side shaft by radial ball bearings (114, 116). superior. In one version, as described above, the rear shaft comprises a first portion (first shaft) and a second portion (second shaft), and the rollers and interconnecting collars are formed by two diameters on each shaft. It is rotatably supported by ball bearings. By engaging the drive pulley with the roller, the drive pulley rotates the roller about the rear axle.

It is possible to split the rotation of the motors and power each roller via an independent motor through a common motor controller. In this case, the motor speed is adjusted by the controller so that the pedaling belt turns at or near the same speed. The motor is controlled by the user to drive the endless belt in a forward direction (i.e., counterclockwise around the front and rear rollers as viewed from the left) or in a rearward direction (i.e., clockwise around the front and rear rollers as viewed from the left). direction) to drive the belt.

In one approach, an AC motor is used to drive the rollers. With an AC motor, the speed of the belt can be obtained directly from the AC motor controller. Related U.S. Application No. 60/548,811, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "Dual Treadmill Exercise Device Having A Single Rear Roller," which is used by reference in this application and which has the same filing date as this application, describes a An AC motor control system that may be employed in one aspect of the invention. In particular, a belt speed control unit ("BSCU") controls the speed of the belt on the pedals based on a belt speed control signal received from a central processing unit ("CPU").

The CPU may be utilized to control various aspects of the operation and/or functionality of the device. More particularly, the CPU provides the output signals necessary to control the operation of the device, including but not limited to the actuation of the pedaling belt, the resistance applied to any pedals. Such output signals are preferably in digital format, but analog signals can also be provided if required for a particular solution. Additionally, while the output signal is typically transmitted via a wired medium, wireless connections may be used to communicate arbitrary signals to or from desired devices, sensors, actuators, or other devices, where such devices may be set At the control device or remote from the control device. Similarly, the CPU receives various input signals from sensors, users, or other objects that assist the CPU in controlling the operation, features, and functions of the equipment to determine movements performed by the exerciser utilizing the equipment, other features, and functions. These input signals may also be transmitted to the CPU via wired and/or wireless communication transmission lines.

In exercise devices employing DC motors, a belt speed sensor (not shown) is operably coupled to the tread belt to monitor the speed of the tread belt. In one particular approach, the belt speed sensor is actuated using a reed switch comprising a magnet and a pickup. A reed switch is operatively coupled to the drive pulley to generate a belt speed signal. More specifically, the magnet is embedded in or attached to the drive pulley and the pick-up is attached to the main frame at an orientation such that an output pulse is generated each time the magnet rotates past the pick-up. Other orientations of the reed switch are also possible. Additionally, other sensors or electronics may be employed to monitor, detect or otherwise provide belt speed.

Certain embodiments of the present invention may include a resistance member operatively connected to the pedal. As used herein, the term "resistance member" is meant to include any type of device, member, component, assembly and structure that resists pedal rotation. The resistance provided by the resistance member may be constant, variable and/or adjustable. Additionally, the resistance may be a function of load, time, heat, and/or other factors. Such a resistance member may resist downward and/or upward movement of the pedal. The resistance member may exert a restoring force on the pedal such that if the pedal is in a down position, the resistance member will exert a force to move the pedal upwards. Resilient resistance members may be utilized in place of or in conjunction with the interconnecting components. The term "vibration" sometimes refers to a form of resistance member, or a spring (return) force, or a damper which may or may not include a spring (return) force.

30-32 and 34 are partial isometric views of the rear of the exercise device with many components removed to show one version of the resistance member and its connection to the pedals. Also, Figures 30-34 also highlight one version of the interconnect assembly and other components, as described in detail below. 28 and 30-34 and other views, in a specific construction of an exercise device, a pedal resistance member 148 is connected between each pedal assembly (12, 14) and the frame 26 to support the weight of the pedal assembly above the frame. front, and resists downward movement of each pedal. The resistance member may be provided at various positions between the pedal frame and the main frame. In one particular configuration shown here, the resistance member is positioned below and behind the pedal. With this structure, most of the resistance member is hidden under the panel. In addition, there is no possibility of the user inadvertently bumping against or interfering with the resistance member during operation or installation or removal of the device.

Other possible resistance members and arrangements thereof that may be used in exercise devices consistent with the present invention are described in the various uses that may be referenced in this application.

The resistance member 148 includes first and second piston-cylinder assemblies 150 operatively connected to respective pedal assemblies. Each piston-cylinder is operatively connected to a common valve assembly 152 . As with many parts of an exercise device, the piston-cylinder 150 located on the right side of the device and its connection to the frame and right side pedals is very similar to the piston-cylinder connected between the frame and the left side pedals. Therefore, the right side piston-cylinder assembly and its interconnection with the right side pedal and frame will be described in detail. Referring first to Figures 28, 32 and other views, the resistance bracket 154 is attached to the underside rear of the pedal assembly. Resistance brackets are usually triangular in shape. Just in front of the swivel support assembly 60, one face of the bracket is connected to the bottom face of the outboard pedal frame member 54 by two bolts. The brackets are arranged such that one apex of the triangle is disposed approximately below the rear side axis. The apex of the bracket below the rear side axle defines a bore 156 for rotationally supporting (at the front drag fulcrum) the front of the right side piston-cylinder. The rear of the right side piston-cylinder is rotatably supported at a rear resistance fulcrum 158 adjacent the back of the frame.

The hydraulic piston-cylinder assembly 150 generally defines a hydraulic fluid-carrying cylinder 160 with a piston 162 connected between each pedal and the frame. Hydraulic cylinder 154 is in fluid communication via valve 152 and, for example, using hose 164 . Rotation of the pedal initiates the piston to move back and forth. Hydraulic fluid is pushed from one cylinder to the other by the back and forth movement of the piston, through the valve. Adjustments to the valves impose hydraulic resistance on the fluid between the cylinders, which in turn applies resistance to each pedal turn.

The rear of the piston-cylinder 150 is pivotally connected to the frame at a rear fulcrum 158 . A piston rod 166 supporting the piston within the cylinder extends outwardly from the front of the piston-cylinder. The end of the piston rod extending out of the cylinder is rotatably connected at the front resistance fulcrum 156 . Inside the cylinder, the piston is connected to the piston rod. The hydraulic cylinder is a welded cylinder with a 1.5" bore, 2" travel and #6SAE O-ring ports. The fluid may be any conventional hydraulic fluid.

Figure 29 is a schematic illustration of the valve assembly 152 in fluid connection with the piston-cylinder to control the hydraulic resistance of the resistance member. The valve means includes a proportional fluid control valve 168 (which is adjustable mechanically or electronically) which is in fluid communication with a first input 170 and a second input 172 . In one embodiment, the proportional valve is a normally closed two-way poppet valve, such as Hydra Force SP08-20-O-N-120E. One cylinder 160 is in fluid communication with a first input and the other cylinder is in fluid communication with a second input, for example by flexible hose. A plurality of ball valves (174A, 174B, 174C, 174D) that allow fluid flow in one direction and prevent fluid flow in the other direction are in the fluid passage between the input device and the proportional fluid control valve. In particular, a first ball valve 174A and a second ball valve 174B are disposed in a first fluid passage 176 that allows fluid to flow from the first input 170 through the proportional valve 168 to the second input 172 . A third ball valve 174C and a fourth ball valve 174D are disposed in a second fluid passage 178 that allows fluid to flow from the second input 172 through the proportional valve 168 to the first input 170 . Both fluid paths pass directly through the proportional valve; therefore, adjustment of the proportional valve will exert substantially the same fluid resistance through both fluid paths. The valve assembly also includes a cavitation chamber 180, a thermal expansion compensator 182 and an overflow reservoir 184 in communication with the fluid passage.

Each cylinder is connected to a respective input (170, 172) of the valve assembly 152, and the hydraulic system is closed. When a pedal is depressed (or pulled) down on the associated piston rod, the piston forces fluid in the cylinder through outlet 136 into the associated valve assembly input. Fluid flows through appropriate fluid passages and out from the opposite valve assembly input. The outwardly flowing fluid flows into the opposing cylinder and acts on a piston therein to push the pedal up (or pull the pedal down). The proportional valve 168 can be respectively opened or closed to reduce or increase the fluid resistance in the fluid passage, thereby reducing or increasing the force required for actuating the pedal. Closing the valve all the way will lock the pedals to stop them from turning. Utilization includes a completely or substantially sealed fluid passage between the pedals (such as provided by a cylinder fixed between the frame and each pedal and fluid associated with the cylinder (either through a valve assembly or simply connecting the outlet of one cylinder to that of the other cylinder) The resistance member in combination with the outlet)) can also provide an interconnection function that enables the displacement of one pedal to manipulate the movement of the other pedal in the opposite direction. Thus, while the mechanical interconnection assembly (described below) can be omitted, the reciprocating motion of the pedals can still be coordinated.

As an alternative, a separate vibrator (as disclosed in U.S. Patent Application No. 10/789,182, filed February 26, 2004, entitled "Dual Deck Exercise Device"), can be used to Allow it to extend between the left or outboard frame piece and the left vertical frame piece of the left treadle assembly. The second vibrator may be positioned to extend between the right or outboard frame member and the right vertical frame member of the right pedal assembly. In another alternative, the vibrator can be attached to the front of the pedal and the lower side frame. Vibrators can be combined with internal or external springs. In this solution, the vibrator dampens and resists the downward force on the ball portion of the foot to provide cushioning for the user's foot, leg and various leg joints such as ankles and knees. The spring also provides a return force to help return the pedal to the higher position after the user has depressed the pedal to the lower position. In some constructions, the vibrator resistance structure is also adjustable to reduce or increase the downward travel distance of the pedals.

Fig. 32 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 33-33 in Fig. 4 . Referring primarily to Figures 28, 32, 33 and 34, as shown, the interconnection assembly 188 enables the rotation of one pedal to be coordinated with the rotation of the other pedal. Typically, the interconnection assembly will cause downward movement of one pedal 12 to be accompanied by upward movement of the other pedal 14, and vice versa. In one example, the interconnection assembly includes a bracket or arm that pivotally supports a swing mechanism 190 supported on an interconnection shaft 192 . A part of the oscillating device on one side of the shaft is connected to a pedal, and another part of the oscillating device on the other side of the shaft is connected to another pedal. More particularly, tie rods 194 are rotatably connected to each end of the swing bracket 18 . Each tie rod is also pivotally connected to the front apex of a corresponding resistance bracket 154 .

More particularly, the swing bracket 190 is rotatably supported on a swing cross member 196 extending between the left and right sides of the frame. As can be seen most clearly in FIGS. 35 and 36 , the pivoting transverse member has a U-shaped cross-section. Each upright portion of the U-shape defines a pivot hole for supporting interconnecting shaft 192 .

The left and right outer portions of the swing arm include a first or lower left pivot pin 198 and a second or lower right pivot pin 200, respectively. A first or upper left pivot pin 202 and a second or upper right pivot pin 204 are supported at the front of the resistance bracket above the outer end of the swing bracket. Tie rods 194 interconnecting the oscillating device to the pedals are rotatably connected between upper and lower pivot pins at each side of the oscillating device. In a particular aspect, each tie rod defines a turnbuckle with an adjustable length. The turnbuckle is connected in the ball hinge structure by using the up and down turning pin.

The interconnection assembly connects the left pedal 12 to the right pedal 14 in such a way that when one pedal (e.g., the left pedal) is pivoted down and then up about the rear axle 102, the other pedal (e.g., the right pedal) Pedals) correspondingly rotate upwards and downwards around the rear side shaft respectively. Thus, the two pedals are interconnected in such a way that a striding motion is provided, wherein a downward movement of one pedal is accompanied by an upward movement of the other pedal and vice versa. During such a striding motion, the swing bracket 190 is capable of rotating or swinging about the interconnecting axis 192, either alone or in combination with the striding motion.

Other possible interconnect components and arrangements that may be employed in the exercise device of the present invention are described in various co-pending applications that may be used by reference in this application.

Pedal reciprocation can be prevented. The block reciprocating motion provides a regular treadmill exercise rather than the hill climbing-like exercise provided by a combination of stride and stride motion. In one approach, pedal reciprocation can be prevented by fully closing valve 168 in the fluid passage between hydraulic cylinders 160, which prevents movement of piston 166 and thereby prevents pedal rotation.

As an alternative, a mechanical (non-hydraulic) locking assembly may be provided in the exercise device of the present invention, in light of the various uses that may be referenced in this application. Typically, the locking assembly includes a pair of blocks that can be positioned under the pedals to lock the reciprocating motion of each pedal. In particular, with such a locking assembly, it is possible to lock the pedal assembly against rotation about the rear side axis. When locked, the straps of the pedal assembly collectively provide an effective single non-rotating pedal-like spanning surface. During or after assembly of the exercise device, the length of one or both turnbuckles 194 can be adjusted by rotation of the rod so that the orientation of the two pedals can be accurately aligned so that the two pedal straps combine to provide parallel spanning surfaces in the locked position .

Referring to Figures 35A-43, the hill climbing-like exercise provided by the motion of the exercise device will be described in more detail. 35A-35E show an exemplary user (hereinafter, "user") in a forward-facing use state. The user walks forward, and the device structure is a hill-climbing movement, that is, the pedal reciprocates. Foot movements shown represent one user only. In some cases, the pedals may not move between the highest and lowest positions, but at points in between. In some cases, the user may have a shorter or longer stride than that shown. In some cases, the user may walk backwards, or face backwards, or face backwards and walk backwards.

36 is a rear isometric view of exercise device 10 with left side pedal 12 in a lower position and right side pedal 14 in a higher position. 37 is a front isometric view of the exercise device of FIG. 36. FIG. Fig. 38 is a left side view of the device shown in Fig. 36, and Fig. 39 is a right side view. Fig. 41 is a partial sectional view taken along line 41-41 in Fig. 36, and Fig. 40 is a schematic sectional view. Referring to Figures 36-39, 41 , 42 and 35A, the left side of the swing arm is turned down and the right side of the swing arm is turned up. In FIG. 35A, the user's right foot is forward and placed on the front of the right step belt 18R as shown. In the user's orientation shown in FIG. 35A , in forward facing hillclimbing use, the user's left leg will extend down and rearward with most of the user's weight resting on the left side step. The user's right leg is bent at the knee and extended backward so that the user's right foot begins to press down on the right side step 14 . From the orientation shown in Figure 35A, the user shifts his body weight to balance between his left and right legs and begins to press down with his right leg to force the right side pedal down. Due to the movement of the belt, both feet will move rearwardly from the position shown in Figure 35A.

Figure 35B shows the orientation of the device and user in the subsequent position shown in Figure 35A. Depressing the right side pedal 14 causes the left side pedal 12 to begin rising through the interconnecting structure 188 and/or the resistance member 148 . The user's right foot has moved back and down from the position shown in Figure 35A. The user's left foot moves backwards (from the belt) and upwards (from the pedals) from the position shown in Figure 35A.

Figure 35C shows the right pedal 14 halfway up its stroke and the left pedal 12 halfway down its stroke. In this way, the pedal assembly is almost at the same height above the frame, as is the hoop 18 . As shown in Figure 35C, the user's right foot and leg have moved back and down from the position shown in Figure 35B. The user's left foot moves back and up from the position shown in Figure 35B. At this point, the user has begun to lift the left foot off the left stepping belt while stepping forward; thus, the left heel lifts and the user has turned onto the ball of the left foot. Typically, more weight will now be acting on the left pedal 12 than on the right pedal 14.

After the orientation shown in Figure 35C, the right pedal continues to move down and the left pedal continues to move up to the orientation of the device shown in Figure 35D. In Figure 35D, the left pedal 12 is higher than the right pedal 14, and the interconnecting arm 190 is rotated about the interconnecting pivot 192 so that its right side is lower than its left side. In this position, the user's right leg continues to move back and down. The user lifts the left leg off the left pedal and moves it forward. In approximately the upper position of the left pedal, the user is pedaling down with his left foot on the front of the pedaling belt. All of the user's weight is on the right pedal until the user places their left foot on the left pedal. The user continues to apply downward force on the right pedal forcing the left pedal up.

Figures 40, 43 and 35F show the right side treadle 14 approximately in its lowest position, and show the left side treadle 12 approximately in its highest position. At this point, the user steps down on the front of the left step and begins to press down with the left leg. At the same time the user also begins to lift the right leg. By transmitting downward force on the left pedal.

Figures 35A-35E illustrate a half cycle of pedal reciprocation, ie the left pedal 12 from a lower position to a higher position and the right pedal 14 from a higher position to a lower position. In such a way as to include the interconnection structure of the full right pedal so that the right pedal begins the pedal up stroke (from the lower position towards the higher position) and the pedal complete down stroke (from the higher position towards the lower position) , the movement of one pedal from a certain position to the return to the same position represents a complete hill climbing exercise cycle. For example, a stride cycle referenced to the lower position of the left pedal (higher position of the right pedal) includes the upward movement of the left pedal from the lower position to the higher position and then downward return to its lower position. sports. In another example, a stride cycle referenced to the midpoint position of the left pedal (see FIG. 35B ) includes an upward movement of the pedal toward a higher position, a downward movement from the higher position past the midpoint position, and toward a lower position. Downward movement, and upward movement back to the midpoint position. The order in which the pedals are moved up and down does not matter. Thus, an upward movement is followed by a downward movement, or a downward movement is followed by an upward movement.

Referring to FIGS. 30-32 and other views, in one aspect of the invention, a stride sensing device is operatively associated with the pedals or interconnecting structure to provide information related to pace (i.e., frequency of reciprocation), Each step is a signal related to the step size and other factors. The stride sensing device includes a pedal position sensor ("TPS") adapted to sense the relative position of the pedals at any given time and transmit a signal to the CPU indicative of pedal movement and/or position. More specifically, encoders such as the Grayhill Series 63K Optical Encoder are interconnected to the interconnecting cross member bracket near the interconnecting shaft. The encoder consists of a pin with a small gear. The gear is operatively connected to the interconnecting shaft such that rotation of the shaft causes the pinion to rotate the encoder shaft, which itself generates a signal as a function of the speed and radial position of the interconnecting shaft. To provide finer step grading, a large gear can be connected to the interconnecting shaft and meshed with a small gear on the encoder. In one particular example, the gear ratio between the bull gear and the pinion is 6:1.

Optionally, in one particular configuration, the exercise device includes a step sensor for providing an output pulse corresponding to each downward stroke of each pedal. The step sensor is operated by a reed switch comprising a magnet and pickup. Attach the magnet to the rocker arm. The magnet is oriented so that it swings back and forth past the pick-up attached to the rocker cross member. The reed switch triggers an output pulse each time a magnet passes the pickup. Thus, when the right pedal is moved down (which corresponds to the movement of the magnet down past the pickup), the reed switch delivers an output pulse, and when the left pedal is moved up (which corresponds to the movement of the magnet up through the pickup) ), the reed switch also delivers an output pulse. The output pulses are used to monitor the swing and stroke of the pedal as it moves up and down during use. The output pulses alone or in conjunction with the belt speed signal are used to provide an exercise frequency display and can be used in various exercise related calculations such as determining the rate at which the user is burning calories.

As can be seen most clearly in FIG. 33, in one particular version, a bumper 206 protruding from the bottom is attached to the bottom surface of the end of the rocker. This bumper can be attached to the swing to cushion the pedal when it bottoms out at the bottom of its travel. The blocks may be manufactured from rubber, polyurethane or a soft elastic polymer material.

As mentioned above, the exercise device can be placed in a "locked" position by closing the valve. In the locked position, the pedal assembly does not pivot up and down. In a particular locked orientation, the treadle assembly is rotatably secured so that the treadle belt is horizontal and at an approximately 10% slope relative to the rear of the exercise device. Thus, in forward use, the user can simulate a straddle ascent, and in backward use the user can simulate a stride downhill.

To mount the device, the user can simply step on the pedals and start exercising. Alternatively, the user may step onto a platform (not shown) supported between the shelves and extending rearwardly from the rear rollers. As taught in various co-pending applications which may be used in combination here. A step-on platform extending outwardly from the outside of each step assembly may also be provided. The tread surface may be embossed or otherwise similarly featured to increase the adhesion between the user's shoe or foot and the tread surface. The platform includes a single foot platform extending rearwardly from the rear of the pedal and at approximately the same height as the rear of the pedal.

A pair of wheels 208 are supported at the bottom of the uprights at the rear of the unit. The bottom panel most forward of the device (see FIG. 9 ) defines a pair of handle cutouts 210 at either outer end of the device. Although the handle does not have an elongated hole, other handle configurations may be used. By lifting the front of the unit, the wheels turn down to engage the surface on which the unit rests. In this manner, the user can roll the exercise device to different locations. As an option, one or more wheels may be provided on the front of the unit, and a handle on the back panel (see Figure 11) is used to lift and move the unit. Although two wheels are shown, one or more wheels, sliding plates, rollers, or other means could be used to facilitate movement of the device.

Figures 44-48 illustrate an alternative hydraulic resistance member 210 in accordance with the present invention. Figure 44 is an isometric view of the hydraulic resistance member. 46-48 show the hydraulic resistance members connected to the interconnection assembly 188 . Referring first to Figures 44 and 45, the hydraulic resistance member comprises a cylinder 212 formed in a steel block. A piston 214 supported on a piston rod 216 is arranged within the cylinder. A piston rod extends outwardly through a bore at each end of the cylinder. During use, an O-ring or other sealing device 218 prevents fluid in the cylinder from escaping from any cylinder outlet. Fluid grooves 220 provide fluid passages between the different regions towards each side of the piston. The valve assembly 222 is disposed at a certain point along the slot.

During use of the exercise device, piston 214 moves back and forth within cylinder 212 . The back and forth movement of the piston drives fluid to either side of the piston through slots 220 between different areas of the cylinder. For example, as the piston moves from left to right, fluid is forced from the area of the cylinder to the right of the piston, and through the slots into the area of the cylinder and then to the left of the piston. Movement of the piston from right to left causes fluid to flow in the opposite direction. The valve adjustment assembly includes a pin 224 adjustably disposed within the slot 220 . The pin is movable from a position where it completely blocks the slot to a position where it does not block fluid flow within the slot. Depending on the position of the pin, fluid flow through the slot is impeded, thereby exerting a variable resistance to the movement of the piston within the cylinder.

46-48 show the resistance member 210 coupled between the prongs 226 extending from the lower portion of the swing member 190 . The rocker pedal assembly and other components shown in FIG. 48 are used in embodiments of the exercise device that are not single arm, as disclosed in various applications that may be used in this application. The fork is combined in the same manner with the rocker and other devices shown in FIG. 32 . One end of the piston rod is rotatably connected between the forks. In addition, the cylinder is rotatably connected to frame rails 196 which support the fork brackets. As the pedal turns up and down, the fork moves in an arcuate path that pulls and pushes the piston rod as the fork turns about its axis. Due to the rotatable engagement with the swing frame track, the cylinder is able to move up and down slightly to form the vertical component of the arcuate path of the fork 226 . The piston-cylinder structure 210 exerts resistance to the swing of the swing mechanism, which prevents the pedal from turning. Adjustment of valve 222 can increase or decrease the resistance exerted by the cylinder-piston arrangement.

49-50 illustrate a second alternative hydraulic resistance member 228 that may be connected to interconnection assembly 188 . Figure 49 is an isometric view of the hydraulic resistance assembly and Figure 50 is a front isometric view of the hydraulic resistance assembly. The hydraulic resistance assembly includes a generally circular fluid cylinder 230 . Piston vane 232 is caused to rotate in a circular cylinder. In addition, the piston vanes are connected to the oscillating shaft 192; thus, rotation of the oscillating shaft exerts a rotational or rotational moment on the piston vanes. At the top of the circular cylinders there are fluid passages 234 between the cylinders on either side of the blade. Cylinder 230 does not complete a complete cycle. One end of the channel on the side opposite the vane joins an input 236 to a fluid passage 234, and the other side of the cylinder on the other side of the vane joins a second input 238 at the other end of the fluid passage. Thus, rotation of the piston vanes pushes fluid through one or the other input and back into the cylinder via the other input. For example, when the piston vane rotates in a clockwise direction, fluid flows clockwise through the fluid passage and out of the input port 236 to the left of the vane. Fluid flows through passage 234 and into cylinder 230 via input 238 . Conversely, as the blades rotate counterclockwise, fluid flows between the cylinder portions on the right side of the blades, through the passages in a counterclockwise direction, through output port 238, passageway 234, input port 236, and into the cylinder portion on the left side of the blades. The piston-cylinder of Figures 49-50 is a closed system similar to the piston-cylinder structure shown in Figures 44-48.

An adjustable valve member 236 is disposed in fluid passage 234 between each portion of cylinder 230 . The valve includes a pin 238 disposed within the fluid passage to vary the degree of opening between a fully closed position and a fully open position. In the fully closed position, the fluid flow channel is completely blocked, and in the fully open position, the fluid flow channel is fully opened. In the embodiment shown in Figures 49-50, fully closing the valve 222 or 236 enables a locking function that secures the pedals (12, 14) in an orientation corresponding to when the valve is closed. Referring to Figure 50, the valves apply a variable resistance to the fluid between the chambers of the cylinders. Thus, by adjusting the valve, a variable resistance can be applied to the oscillating device 190, which in turn applies a variable resistance to the rotation of the pedal.

Figures 51-54 show one version of the exercise device of the present invention. The exercise device shown in Figures 51-54 includes an optional interconnection assembly structure, an optional resistance member in combination with the interconnection assembly. The interconnect assembly 240 includes a swing arm that rotates in a horizontal plane about a vertical interconnect axis space 242 . The swing arm is rotatably connected to a frame rail disposed below the swing arm. To avoid unnecessarily obscuring the interconnection member 240, the frame rails are not shown in FIGS. 51-54. Other components of the exercise device are not shown in FIGS. 51-54 in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring various features of the interconnect assembly and the valve's employable resistance members.

One end region of the pivot arm is connected to a corresponding resistance bracket 154 . The other end region of the pivot arm is also connected to a corresponding resistance bracket 154 . In one example, tie rod 244 is rotatably connected to one end of the swing arm. The opposite ends of the tie rods are connected to corresponding bottom resistance brackets. In one version, a similar tie rod structure connects the other end of the swing arm to the corresponding resistance bracket. Rotation of the pedal 12 rotates the associated resistance bracket 154L back and forth. The back and forth movement of the resistance bracket pushes and pulls the corresponding end of the swing arm, thereby causing the opposite end of the swing arm to move in the opposite direction as the swing arm rotates about the vertical interconnecting axis space 242 . Thus, by upward rotation of the relative pedal 14, one pedal 12 is rotated downward, and vice versa. As mentioned above, the swing arm rotates in a generally horizontal plane. In the previous embodiments discussed here, the swing arm rotated in a substantially vertical plane. The interconnecting shafts can be positioned in different ground planes to position the swing arm so that it can rotate in a plane between horizontal and vertical (ie, an inclined plane).

An optional resistance member 246 is attached to either side of the interconnecting shaft along the length of the swing arm. In the example shown in Figures 51-54, an optional resistance member is attached to the left end region of the swing arm; however, the resistance member could be attached to either side of interconnecting shaft 242 along any portion of the swing arm. The optional resistance member 246 includes a cylinder 248 containing a piston connected to a piston rod 250 adapted to reciprocate within the cylinder. One end of the piston rod is rotatably connected to the end region of the interconnected swing arm 241 . The cylinder includes a fluid passage leading to or extending from a valve assembly housing 252 in fluid communication with the cylinder 248 . The valve assembly housing 252 , discussed in more detail below, includes the same valve assembly components as described with respect to FIG. 29 . Front and rear portions of the selectable resistance member are rotatably coupled. The front pivot 254 is disposed at the outwardly extending end of the piston rod 250 . Coupling ring 260 rotatably couples the front pivot to the pivot at which the swing arm is coupled to the tie rod. At the front of the resistance member 246 is provided a rear rotation device 256 . The bracket arm 258 is secured to a cross member (not shown) and the forward and upwardly extending fork of the bracket rotatably supports the rear of the resistance member 246 . In order not to exert excessive lateral pressure on the piston rod 250, the combination of the rotatable front pivot device 254 and the rear pivot 256 allows the resistance member to properly rotate with the swing arm during the forward and backward motion of the swing arm.

Figure 55 shows an alternative belt adjustment assembly 64. The belt adjustment assembly is basically similar to the above assembly. However, the tensioner plate 68 includes upper and lower pivot pins 79 (only the upper portion shown) instead of tabs 78 . The angle adjusting plate 90 supports an angle adjusting bolt 92 adapted to abut against the tensioning plate and make it rotate around the rotating bolt 79 . In addition to being supported in slots (eg, tongues), the pins are rotatably supported in pivot holes defined in the lower 70 and upper 72 plates (not shown). Therefore, the tension plate turns around the turning pin. The rearward tensioning of the belt on the rollers causes the tension plates to rotate outward relative to the bolts 92 . The bolts are tightened inward to allow the roller to turn forward, or they can be loosened outward to allow the roller to turn backward.

Figure 56 shows an alternative structure for combining the pedal with the pedal support. In this solution, an elongated bracket 262 having an L shape is welded to the outside of each deck support. L-shaped brackets are welded to each deck support rather than otherwise supporting them at one end or the other. The fender 58 is secured to the downwardly extending surface of the L-shaped bracket by bolts or other means. Secure the rubber strap 264 to the top of the L-bracket. The straps isolate the deck from the frame and also provide some deck suspension.

Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described with a certain degree of particularity, those skilled in the art can make various modifications to the disclosed embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. All directional descriptions (e.g. up, down, up, down, left, right, left, right, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, and counterclockwise) are for identification only to help They are not intended to be limiting, particularly as to the location, orientation or use of the invention, for the reader's understanding of the invention. Connection descriptions (eg, affixed, engaged, connected, etc.) have a broad meaning and they may include intermediate components between connections and relative movement between components. Accordingly, such linkage illustrations do not necessarily imply that two components are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. It is conceivable that the contents contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings are explanatory rather than restrictive.

In the solution of the invention shown here, radial ball bearings are used in various places, eg for supporting the rear roller. Other means (such as collars, sleeves, lubricants, etc.) may be used to rotationally support the various components. Although in some instances, square tubes are used, such as for pedal assemblies; however, solid frame members, cylindrical tubes and the like may also be used.

Changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the inventive idea defined in the claims.

Claims (11)

1. A fitness equipment, comprising: Lower main frame; A first pedal assembly comprising: a first frame including a first outer support rotatably supported in a rear region of the exercise device and extending along a substantial length of the lower main frame; a first platen and a first belt that rotates around front and rear rollers to provide a first surface movable forward or rearward relative to the first frame; and a first inner guard extending under the first belt, the The first frame also includes a plurality of deck supports extending inwardly from the outer support and connected between the first outer support and the first inner guard; wherein the first inner guard is connected to the deck support connected to the inner end of the deck support member, which is inboard of the end of the deck support connected to the first outer support member, but not connected to the rear roller or any other structure at the rear end of the first inner the pedal assembly is rotatably supported on the lower main frame at the rear of the first frame; and A second pedal assembly comprising: a second frame including a second outer support; pivoting through the second deck and about front and rear rollers to provide forward or rearward movement relative to the second frame a second belt on a second surface of the second belt; and a second inner guard extending under the second belt, the second outer support being rotatably supported in the rear region of the exercise device and along the lower main frame extending substantially the length of the second frame further comprising a plurality of deck supports connected between the second outer support and the second inner guard; wherein the second inner guard and the inner deck support connected to an end that is inboard of the end of the deck support connected to the second outer support, but not connected to the rear roller or any other structure at the rear end of the second inner fender, said second treadle assembly may pivotally supported on the lower main frame at the rear of the second frame, wherein the front portions of the first and second pedal assemblies are supported above an exercise equipment frame comprising said lower main frame and are capable of reciprocating movement in a substantially upward and downward manner during use, the first and second pedal assemblies An interconnection assembly is operatively coupled between the assemblies such that upwardly reciprocating movement of one of the first and second pedal assemblies is effected by downwardly reciprocating movement of the other pedal assembly; one and second decks are disposed below the first and second belts and respectively support the first and second belts; support parallel inner support; neither the first nor second inner fenders provide longitudinal support for the first and second treadle assemblies or the respective said deck supports, but are the respective said deck supports Provides very little front and rear support; the respective deck supports are supported on one end region by the first and second outer supports respectively, and the deck supports carry the first and The load of the second deck; the corresponding front and rear rollers of the first and second pedal assemblies are rotatably supported on the front and rear of the first and second frames, respectively, and the first and second The front rollers of the two pedal assemblies are respectively supported in a cantilever structure on the outer sides of the front rollers by corresponding first and second outer supports, the inner edges of the front rollers of the first and second pedal assemblies are close to each other, and the corresponding said inner fender is supported at the inner edge of a respective said front roller, providing it with insignificant longitudinal support, while the inner end of each said front roller is unsupported; and said first and second Two decks are located on respective said deck supports and between respective said front and rear rollers in the first and second treadle assemblies. 2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein: The interconnect assembly includes a swing arm that pivots about a first pivot point. 3. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the swing arm defines a first portion on either side of the first pivot point and a second portion, the first portion being coupled to the first pedal assembly and the second portion being coupled to the second pedal assembly. Two pedal assemblies are combined. 4. The exercise device of claim 3, wherein the interconnection assembly further comprises: a first rod rotatably connected between the first portion of the swing arm and the first pedal assembly; A second rod is rotatably connected between the second portion of the swing arm and the second pedal assembly. 5. The exercise device of claim 4, wherein the first rod includes a turnbuckle and the second rod includes a turnbuckle. 6. The exercise device of claim 1, comprising: A resistance member is operatively disposed between the first pedal assembly and the second pedal assembly. 7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the resistance member includes a first piston-cylinder assembly operably coupled between the lower main frame and the first pedal assembly. 8. The exercise device of claim 7, wherein the resistance member includes a second piston-cylinder assembly operably coupled between the lower main frame and the second pedal assembly. 9. The exercise device of claim 8, wherein the resistance member includes an adjustable valve assembly that hydraulically couples the first piston-cylinder assembly and the second piston-cylinder assembly. 10. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the swing arm is rotatable in a substantially vertical plane and further comprising: A piston-cylinder assembly combined between the swing arm and the lower main frame. 11. The exercise device of claim 1, further comprising: a first vibrator connected between the lower main frame and the front of the first pedal assembly; and A second vibrator connected between the lower main frame and the front of the second pedal assembly.

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