Exercise device with varied gait movements.

(54) Title: DEVICE TO EXERCISE WITH VARIOUS TROUT MOVEMENTS. (54) Title: EXERCISE DEVICE WITH VARIED GAIT MOVEMENTS.

(57) Summary

The present invention relates to an exercise device, comprising: (a) a frame having a front end and a rear end, (b) a first upper leg link pivotally coupled to the frame to rotate about a first upper pivot point, and a second upper leg link coupled pivoted to the frame for pivoting about a second upper pivot point, where the first and second upper pivot points define a laterally extending upper pivot axis, (c) a first lower leg link directly pivotally coupled to the first upper leg link distal to the first upper pivot point to pivot about a first lower pivot point, and a second directly attached lower leg link pivotally to the second upper leg link distal to the second upper pivot point to pivot about a second lower pivot point, and (d) a foot bracket attached to each inner leg link distal to the respective lower pivot point, (e) where the top leg links, bottom leg links and foot supports are supported, configured and arranged in a manner the top pivot shaft passing behind an accommodated orthostatic user facing forward supported on the foot supports with the foot supports aligned horizontally and vertically.

(57) Abstract

An exercise device for performing a variety of movement patterns is provided, having an upper link pivotally mounted to a lower leg link and a foot support on a distal end of the lower leg link. A first transfer system is movably coupled to a trame and including a first transfer member coupled to the first upper leg link and a second transfer member coupled to the second upper leg link, thereby enabling substantially reciprocating motion of the first leg link relative to the second leg link. A second transfer system is also provided and may be movably coupled to the trame and including a pair of third transfer members coupled to each of a pair of fourth transfer members by way of each of a pair of transfer couplings, each movably mounted to the trame . The fourth transfer members may be coupled to the first lower leg link.

Institute

Mexican Property

Industrial _SE_

SKStHMlA 06 KOSGMi *

Headlines):

Home:

Denomination:

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Inventor (s):

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PATENT TITLE NO. 336501

EXERCITING, LLC

1692 Holcomb Lake Road, Marieta, Georgia, 30062, USA

DEVICE TO EXERCISE WITH VARIED TROUT MOVEMENTS.

lnt.CI.8: A63B22 / 00; A63B22 / 04; A63B71 / 00

JOEL D. GORDON; KEVIN G. ABÉLBEC $ “GLENN D. ROSS; BRAD R.

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End of Patent Number: 329717

PRIORIDJ

Date:

May:

Number:

61/331,520

Agency; Twenty trios • cha do Vene ri ientc patent of reference t conformity with ertt lo 23 of li miada to give birth of the fecg of provision of chos.

de torga conXindamento .ey of Props ¡faction V, 6 · fraction III, and 59 of the Law of Irgustrial Property.

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years which cannot be expended, [to keep short the _ Res III and 7 'bis 2 of the

Federation (DOF) 27W1§91 * NNMMI ^ IHⁱí ^ 4, 10/25/1996, 12/26/1997, 17 5/01/2004, 06/16/2005, 2001/2006, &lt;0/05 / 2009,06 / 01/2010, 18/06 / 2010, 06/28/2019, 01/27/2012 and 04/09/2012); Articles 1 ', 3 ° f I and III who endorse the present title lo li »based on Industrial property (Official Journal d &lt;

And from the 5/1999, iction on the

07/01/2002, 07/15/2004, 07/28/2004 and 09/07/2007); Articles 1, 3, 4, 5, section V, Section a), 16 sections I and III and 30 of the Organic Statute of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property (DOF) 12/27/1999, amended on 10/10/2002, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 a n d 09/13/2007); 1, 3 and 5 paragraph a) of the Agreement that delegates powers to the Deputy Directors General, Coordinator, Divisional Directors, Holders of Regional Offices, Divisional Deputy Directors, Departmental Coordinators and other subordinates of the Mexican Institute of Industrial Property. (DOF 12/15/1999, amended on 02/04/2000, 07/29/2004, 08/04/2004 and 09/13/2007).

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Arenal No. 550. Floor 1,

Coi. Santa María Tepepan town. Xochímiíco Delegation,

CP 16020, Mexico, D F.

Tef. (55) 53 34 07 00 www.impj qob.mx

Issue Date: January 21, 2016

DIVISIONAL DIRECTOR OF PATENTS

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NAHANNY CANAL REYES

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MX / 2016/5755

33650t

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The present invention relates generally to exercise equipment and more particularly, to exercise equipment that simulates or facilitates ambulatory human movement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Exercise is a necessary part of a healthy lifestyle. Without proper exercise, muscle tissue decreases, bone mineral density declines, and people tend to store more weight in fat. This contributes to a variety of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and diabetes. A common aerobic exercise is running. Hitting the floor while running can cause joint issues for some people. In addition, running outdoors requires adequate space and environment. Weather and personal safety restrict some individuals from doing this activity as often as they would like, since running in bad weather or a dangerous neighborhood can result in more serious problems than heart disease.

Indoor running and walking can be accomplished using a Mexican Mill Wheel Imute, though again, the setetal foot-tapping actionRradledae

Incfusfrtat tread can lead to injury from overuse of the joints. Other products such as elliptical trainers address this problem while restricting the user to a set of gait patterns. Any slight variation between the natural gait of the user and the gait previously determined by the machine can produce an imbalance in the load of the joints, as well as a muscular development of the limbs in use. Because people have different stride lengths, and these vary greatly with height and weight, it is unlikely that a single previously defined gait could be ideal for all users.

Accordingly, it should be appreciated that there is a need for a fitness device that allows movement in a variety of gait patterns with minimal effort transition from one pattern to another. The present invention satisfies this need and others.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a frame supporting a first top leg link and a second top leg link, each pivotally coupled to the frame. A first lower leg link

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can be pivotally attached to the first upper leg link and a

F second lower leg link can be coupled in the form of pl ^ füM ^ j second upper leg link, each lower leg link can include a foot support. A first transfer system can be provided, which can be movably coupled to the frame and include a first transfer element coupled to the first upper leg link and a second transfer element coupled to the second upper leg link. A second transfer system may be provided, which is movably coupled to the frame, and may include a pair of third transfer elements, coupled to each of a pair of fourth transfer elements, by means of each of the one pair of transfer couplings, each of which can be movably mounted to the frame. The fourth transfer elements can be coupled to the first lower leg link and the second lower leg link, whereby the movement of the first lower leg link can cause the movement of the second lower leg link regardless of the movement of the links upper leg.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the first transfer system may be comprised of a first gear and a second gear, whereby rotation of the first gear results in rotation in an opposite direction of the second gear. The first transfer system may also be comprised of a pivot bar with a first end and a second end and mounted in the form of

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pivot to the frame. The first end can be coupled to the first transfer element, and the second end can be coupled to the second transfer element.

The exercise device can also include a support system, which defines a lower position of the foot supports. The support system may be comprised of a compression link with a first end coupled to the frame and a second end coupled to a lower leg link. The compression link may be comprised of a housing, a rod received by the housing, and a deviation element captured between the housing and the rod, thereby limiting the amount of displacement of the rod relative to the housing. The support system may include a first compression link coupled to the first lower leg link and a second compression link coupled to the second lower leg link.

The support system may be comprised of one or more bands, each one movably coupled to the frame by at least two pulleys. The band may include an upper path positioned adjacent to a lower portion of the foot support and adapted to contact the upper path, thus, the band may limit the vertical movement of the foot support. The support system may be comprised of a belt tensioner coupled to the frame, the belt tensioner may be deflected to provide tension on the belt. The support system may also include a belt drive, such as a motor or other

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power, operatively coupled to the belt to allow continuous of one or more of the pulleys, thus allowing continuous movement of the belt in the absence of input power from a user.

For the purposes of summarizing the present invention and the advantages achieved over the prior art, certain advantages of the present invention have been described above. Of course, it should be understood that not all of these advantages can necessarily be achieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the present invention. Accordingly, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present invention may be represented or performed in a manner that achieves or optimizes an advantage or group of advantages such as those taught in the present disclosure without necessarily achieving other advantages. which could be taught or suggested in the present description.

All of these modalities are intended to be within the scope of the present disclosed description. These and other embodiments of the present invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art from the following description of the preferred embodiments and the drawings, the invention not being limited in any way to the particular embodiments described.

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BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which;

Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exercise device incorporating a system that allows varied gait movements according to the present invention.

Figure 2 is a partial isometric detail of a transfer system with a portion of the frame removed for visual clarity, in the view shown along line 2-2 in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an isometric view of a linkage system of the exercise device shown in Figure 1 with the frame removed.

Figure 4 is an isometric view of a detail of a top leg link pivot of the link shown in Figure 3, the detail shown in Figure 3, along line 4-4.

Figure 5 is an isometric view of the link of Figure 3, shown from the front, left.

Figure 6 is an isometric view of a detail of the upper leg link pivot of the link shown in Figure 5, the detail shown in Figure 5, along line 6-6.

Ί

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Figure 7 is a side view of the exercise device of Figure 1, with dotted lines illustrating the di; walking paths and runner pedal.

Figure 8 is a side view of the device for doing the exercise of Figure 1, with dotted lines illustrating an inclined step pedal path.

Figure 9 is an isometric view of an exercise device incorporating a system that allows varied gait movements, the device includes a transfer system comprising a pivot bar.

Figure 10 is a rear isometric view of the device of Figure 9, with a cover removed to show a transfer system.

Figure 11 is a detail of the device of Figure 10, 15 shown along line 11-11 illustrating a transfer system in greater detail.

Figure 12 is a detail of the device of Figure 10, shown along line 12-12, illustrating a top link pivot area in greater detail.

Figure 13 is an isometric view of an exercise device that incorporates a system that allows varied gait movements and that includes a support system that includes a compression link.

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Figure 14 is a detail of the fi device shown along line 14-14 illustrating a compression link with the cover partially removed. IntíüsW;

Fig. 15 is a side view of the device of Fig. 13, showing different pedal paths that can be guided by a compression link placed in different positions relative to the frame, and the pedals in a relatively vertical orientation.

Figure 16 is a detail of the device of Figure 15, shown along line 16-16 illustrating a compression link with the cover partially removed.

Figure 17 is a side view of the device of Figure 15, showing different pedal paths that can be guided by a compression link placed in different positions relative to the frame, and the pedals in a relatively horizontal position.

Figure 18 is a detail of the device of Figure 17, shown along line 18-18 illustrating a compression link with a partially removed cover.

Figure 19 is a side view of an exercise device that incorporates a system that allows varied gait movements and that includes a support system that includes a band.

Figure 20 is an isometric view of the device of the figure from a front, side orientation.

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g

Figure 21 is a detail of the flg device shown along line 21-21 illustrating the front pulleys ^ d ^ i ^ f '5 support system.

Figure 22 is a detail of the device of Figure 20 shown along line 22-22 illustrating the rear pulleys of a support system.

Figure 23 is a posterior symmetric view of an exercise device incorporating a system that allows varied gait movements according to the present invention.

Figure 24 is a detail of the device of Figure 23, shown along line 24-24, showing a rear view of the Drive elements of the device.

Figure 25 is a front view of the Driving elements of the device of Figure 23.

Figure 26 is a side view of an exercise device that incorporates a system that allows varied gait movements and provides an articulation leg.

Figure 27 is a symmetrical view of the device of figure

Figure 28 is a detail of the device of figure 27,

26.

shown along line 28-28, showing a side isometric view of the elements of the device support system.

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Figure 29 is a right front isometric view of the IV device of Figure 27.

Intíusftfc ..

Figure 30 is a detail of the device of Figure 29, shown along line 30-30, showing a side isometric view of a front portion of a device support system.

Figure 31 is a detail of the device of Figure 29, shown along line 31-31, showing a side isometric view of a resistance system of the device.

Figure 32 is a side view of an exercise device that incorporates a system that allows varied gait movements, the device includes a transfer system that comprises a pivot bar and a support system.

Figure 33 is an isometric view of the device of Figure 32 with a bottom cover and a portion of the frame removed.

Figure 34 is a detail of the device of Figure 33 shown along line 34-34 showing an isometric view of the transfer system.

Figure 35 is a detail of the device of Figure 33 shown along line 35-35 showing an isometric view of a top link and support system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

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Referring to the illustrative drawings, and particularly Figures 1 to 6, an exercise device is shown in the form of a multifunctional adaptive training device 38. This embodiment of the present invention may include a frame 36 that supports a pair of leg links including a first leg link 40 and a second leg link 42. The first leg link 40 may include a first top link 44 coupled to a first bottom link 46. In a similar manner, a second leg link 42 may include a second top link 48 coupled to a second bottom link 50. A carrier Foot 52 can be placed at a distal end of each of the first lower link 46 and the second lower link 50. A user may place himself with one foot on each of the foot supports 52 and perform a variety of different exercises.

The foot supports 52 are linked to each other by means of a first transfer system 54 and a second transfer system 56. The first transfer system 54 may include a first transfer element 58 coupled to the first upper link 44 and a second transfer element 60 coupled to the second upper link 48. The first transfer system 54 may also include a first transfer bar 62 allowing substantially opposite movement of the first transfer element 58 relative to the second

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ι, -Υλρλ-, λ transfer element 60. The substantially opposite movement can ^_@^£_QCan be achieved through a first gear 64 mounted adjacent to a sat ^ r ^ o ^^ fF gear 66 and the first transfer element 58 being coupled to the first gear 64 and the second transfer element 60 being coupled to the second gear 66 by means of the first transfer bar 62.

This combination can provide substantially reciprocating motion of the first uplink 44 relative to the second uplink 48.

To complete the link of the foot supports 52 of the first leg link 40 to that of the second leg link 42, the first bottom link 46 can be linked to the second bottom link 50. This can be done by coupling a pair of third parties transfer elements 68, one for each of the first lower link 46 and one to the second lower link 50. A pair of transfer couplings 70 can be supported on frame 36 and each coupling of the pair of third transfer elements 68 to each of a pair of fourth transfer elements 72. The four transfer elements 72 are coupled one with the others by means of the second transfer system 56, thus allowing the substantially reciprocating movement of the four transfer elements with each other. A second transfer bar 74 can be used to transmit torque from one of the four transfer elements 72 to the other.

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As in the case of the first transfer system 54, the second transfer system 56 may include a third gear 76ntíus »fíGV coupled to the second transfer bar 74 and a fourth gear 78 adjacent to the third gear 76. The fourth gear 78 can be coupled to one of the four transfer elements 72 and the second transfer bar 74 coupled to another fourth transfer element 72, thereby allowing substantially reciprocating movement of the four transfer elements 72 relative to the others. This action could provide substantially opposite movement of the third transfer elements 68 with one another, which can provide substantially opposite movement of the first lower link 46 relative to the second Lower link 50. Both with the first transfer system 54 Like the second transfer system 56, the movement of one foot holder 52 to the other could be controlled. Each foot stand 52 can be placed in an infinite number of positions within its plane of movement. In doing so, the other foot support 52 will be placed in a specific position in space within this plane of motion. This combination allows a path of movement of a foot support 52 that is not confined by the machine as it can be infinitely varied by the user. User stability is provided by the linked post-clonamment of each foot support 52, thereby providing a stable platform for user support.

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Referring to Figures 2, 3, and 5, means of resistance are provided. teto

When a person runs or walks on a flat surface without wind, there is no resistance to movement. The potential energy of the 5th runner is the same at the end of the race as it was at the beginning of the race training. The energy has been used through the mechanics of the race or the way of walking. The user's center of mass is lifted and dropped at each stride. In addition, the mass of the leg segments has been accelerated to provide a complex movement that is repeated with each stride. This work is performed by the broker when no energy has been stored, although it has been used by the broker. These aspects of energy expenditure may also be apparent with the invention described herein. The way of running the legs can be Identical to that of a runner on a flat or graduated surface and therefore, the energy required by the user to manipulate and change the direction of the legs is provided by the user. This can be exaggerated by the mass of the first leg link 40 and the second leg link 42 which are added to the mass of the runner's legs. Vertical displacement of the user's center of mass can also be provided with the present invention.

In some cases, it may be desired to add additional resistance to milling of the first transfer system 54, the second transfer system 56, or both. This can be accomplished by a brake 80 or other

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or ··'

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element of resistance to any transfer system (54 and 56)!

Figures 2, 3 and 5, a brake 80 is added to resist rotation of the first step ;; ..

Through the transfer bar 62 of the first transfer system 54 and a second PCWiIsi brake 80 is provided to resist rotation of the second transfer bar 74 of the second transfer system 56. One or both brakes 80 may be used to add torque to their respective transfer system (54 and 56) to increase the workload as if a runner was training running on soft wood. Furthermore, by adding the resistance to one or the other transfer system (54 and 56), the running mode can be modified for the user. This may be desired if an efficiency is identified and specific training is necessary to correct that deficiency.

Another use of the brakes 80 is to add support to the foot supports 52 during the entry and exit of the user with the machine. By engaging both brakes 80, the foot supports 52 can be effectively locked in position and are then slowly released to provide a smooth and stable method of entry and exit of the exercise device 38. By reducing any rapid movements during ingress and egress, the user is much less likely to feel unstable, thus possibly reducing the likelihood of feeling unstable.

Where the system, as described, provides a stable platform for the user by placing a foot stand 52 in a position

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specific in space, as determined by the other foot supports 52, it may be desirable to alter this relationship between the foot supports 5 ^ | e> 4Q method of achieving this is to alter the length of the third transfer elements 68. As shown in Figures 1, 3 and 5, the third 5 transfer elements 68 may Include an activator 82 with a bearing mount 84 at each end thereof. Activator 82 allows the distance between bearing assemblies 84 to be changed, thereby altering the angle between the first upper link 44 and the first lower link 46 and in the same manner between the second upper link 48 and the second lower link 10 50. By altering these angles, the position of the foot supports 52 is changed relative to the frame 36 and therefore relative to one another, thereby altering gait patterns.

Some examples of the variations in gait patterns that can be obtained, without altering the length of the third transfer elements 15, are shown in Figures 7 and 8. In Figure 7, the longest path 86 is consistent with a desired foot travel path for a running mode. For a walking mode, a shorter path is shown 88. The present invention

38, automatically refers to the amplitude (vertical height) of the displacement of the foot support 52 to the length (stride length) since these naturally correlate in the gait patterns in people. Therefore, in many cases, the present invention 38 may not require alterations to have the transition form

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from one walking pattern to another during use. This allows uMexsesí'se ci Pr®íi © d¡ed smooth and fluid transition from one way of walking to another. If altering the path is desired, the third transfer element 68 can be changed during use without the user stopping the machine 38. The arched path 90 represents a pendulum path, which can be used as a recovery walking mode.

In FIG. 8, a more extreme vertical motion path 92 is shown. Again, this can be provided without altering the length of the third transfer element 68. This shows a foot path that may be consistent with climbing stairs or a steep slope, such as in hiking. The capacity of device 38 allows for considerable versatility that is expressed only by a few of the infinite number of walking patterns possible for device 38.

The gait patterns can be controlled to guide the user to a specific pattern by replacing the brakes 80 with Booster motors, such as servo or stepper motors. One embodiment of this system is to develop one drive transfer system and the other driven transfer system. For purposes of illustration, a system will be described where the first transfer system 54 is the impeller and the second transfer system 56 is driven. It should be understood that the state of the impeller and the driven can be reversed and the system as described can be substantially

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fc w Ljível itself only inverted with respect to which it is detected and which is driven. With that in mind, the use of servo motors to replace one of the 80 brakes provides a means of torque development around the first transfer bar 62 and second transfer bar 74. In that the servo motors have an integrated shaft locating device, there might not be a need for an external encoder or other device to detect the position, direction and speed of the motor shafts, and therefore the first transfer bar 62 associated and second transfer bar 74. IF a stepper motor is used in place of the servo motors to replace the brakes 80, then a detection device for at least the first transfer bar could be used

62.

In this embodiment, as a user drives a footstand 52 a certain direction at a certain speed, and the first uplink 44 and consequently also the second uplink 48 are displaced, the first transfer bar 62 will rotate a certain amount , in a certain direction and at a certain speed. A sensor, such as the encoder on the servo motor, can be used to gather the Information on the location, direction of movement and speed of movement of the motor and therefore the first transfer bar 62. This information can be used to determine the gait pattern, as this information may be specific to a particular gait pattern, or a specific gait pattern may be pre-selected

Á 'I by the user. An algorithm can be provided to correlate the location⁵and direction of movement of the first transfer bar 62 (impi a desired position of the second transfer bar 74 (Driven) for that gait pattern. The motor (formally brake 80) associated with the second transfer bar 74 it can be activated to drive the second transfer bar 74 to the position as determined by the information from the first transfer bar 62 as calculated by the algorithm. This process electronically links the first transfer system 54 to the second transfer system 56 while still allowing the user to determine the path and speed of movement of the foot supports 52, and therefore the user's foot. By linking the first transfer system 54 to the second transfer system 56, a defined path of movement of the foot supports 52 can be provided. Through an electronic link, how they are linked can be infinitely varied. With current processor technology, a closed loop system reads and reacts from 500-1000 Hz is possible, providing a smooth path with little or no gear movement, making it a very viable system with currently available technology.

Referring to Figures 9 through 12, another embodiment of the present Invention 38 'is shown. In this embodiment, the present invention 38 'has a first uplink 44', a second uplink 48 ', a first downlink 46', a second downlink 50 ', and a third

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SSlMíti Jump transfer element 68 'connected to the first lower link 46' and

Poetes second link Lower 50 '. Transfer coupling 70 'transfers IsMtítíSílW load from third transfer elements 68' to fourth transfer elements 72 'and a first transfer element 58' is coupled to a second transfer element 60 'by means of a first transfer system. transfer 54 ', comprising a pivot arm 94, whereby it provides a substantially reciprocating motion from the first transfer element 58 'to the second transfer element 60'.

A second transfer system 56 'is provided to achieve similar reciprocating movement of the fourth transfer elements 72'. In this embodiment, the transfer coupling 70 'is substantially longitudinal, providing a classic first-class lever as opposed to the previously described embodiment, where the load and force can be considered to be on the same side of the fulcrum (2nd or 3rd lever class). In this case, the load on the fourth transfer elements 72 'can always be in tension. As such, a flexible element, such as a cord or rope, can be used in opposition to a rigid structural element, such as a steel bar. A second pivot arm 96 can provide substantially reciprocating motion for the fourth transfer elements 72 ', as with pivot arm 94, the second pivot arm 96 is a substantially rigid arm that is pivotally mounted to the frame, around a central point along the long axis, the ends free to move so that one end becomes

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lower, the other end is raised relative to frame 36 '. This Instituto Me ^ cc action does not allow the respective transfer elements (72 'to 72' and move in a substantially reciprocating manner relative to one another. In this embodiment, a hydraulic damper 98, can be used to offer resistance to movement of one or both transfer systems (54 'and 56'). The damper 98 can be attached to the first transfer element 58 'and the second transfer element 60' at or near the transfer couplings 70 'or anywhere else in the system.

An alternative embodiment of the present invention including a support system 99 comprised of a compression link 100 is shown in Figures 13 through 18. The compression link 100 may be two compression links 100, each with an axis 102, both shafts 102 with a first end coupled to each of the first lower link 46 and the second lower link 50. Shaft 102 of each compression link 100 can be received by a sleeve 104, which can be coupled to a link assembly 108, which can be mounted to the frame 36. A compression spring 106 can be received within the sleeve 104. Spring 106 can act as a deflector against extension of shaft 102 out of sleeve 104. In doing so, the expanded distance of compression link 100 is limited by the spring and extension force on shaft 102. With one end of the compression link 100 coupled to the frame, via link mount 108, and the other end coupled to the lower links (46 and 50) of device 38, the lowest position of foot bracket 52 is constrained by the compression force of the compression link spring 106 106 ^ ^ ^ do so, as a user passes through the race phase stance, where the highest normal force is applied to a support surface, the greatest tension will be placed on the spring 106. This may allow for the length of the compression link 100.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, the small curve 110 is representative of the foot support 52 of the travel path for a walking mode. It can be seen that in the lower position of the foot support 52, a smooth arched path can be provided.

As the user begins to shift his weight onto the upper foot support 52, as the foot transitions forward during the swing phase, the front foot will begin to drop as the trailing foot begins to rise as the weight of the users is transferred from the foot ending the stay phase (bringing the toes out of transition to the swing phase) to foot ending swing phase (approaching heel strike to transition to stay phase). As the weight of the user's body begins to be removed from the standing posture (bottom), spring 106 can deflect shaft 102 toward sleeve 104, thereby cutting the overall length of compression link 100. This will pull the lower link 46, and consequently the foot support 52 on which the foot of the i is positioned

user toward link assembly 108, thereby guiding foot 52 upward in a desired gait pattern 110.

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The amplitude of the gait can be altered by changing the relative position of the link assembly 108 on the frame 36. The upper arch 112 shown in Figure 15 is a path from the connection of the compression link 100 to the first lower link 46 through of the stay phase (when it supports the weight of the user's body). The lower arch 114 is representative of the path of the compression link 100 connection to the first lower link 46 through the entire stay phase (when supporting the weight of the user's body) when the link assembly 108 is lowered onto the frame 36. This may result in a travel path represented by the second travel path 116 of the foot supports 52. This greater amplitude of foot travel may be representative of a running mode of walking, compared to a walking mode of the shortest path 110. Accordingly, the desired gait pattern may be altered by changing the position of the link mount 108.

To further illustrate the compression link function

100, the device 38 with the compression links 100 and the details of the cut are shown in Figures 15 to 18. In Figure 15, the second bottom link 50 is shown in an elevated position that might be apparent to a user with your foot on the foot supports 52 and your right foot at an approximately midpoint along the forward movement 118 of the

<img file="MX336501B_D0031.tif" />

swing phase of a walking mode. In this right figure the user will probably be downloaded as the user is supported on the other foot (left) on the foot support of the first lower link 46. The detail in the section, shown in figure 16, of the link compression 100 of this, the unloaded foot support 52 in the swing phase. Spring 106 of compression link 100 is in a relaxed position as shaft 102 is received within sleeve 104, without placing pressure on spring 106.

In Figure 17, the link assembly 108 has been moved down to allow the foot supports 52 to achieve the greatest amplitude in their gait movement. Furthermore, the second infer link 50 and the second upper link 48 have been moved to the corresponding position of the foot support 52 in a position to simulate the passage of the heel strike and the start of the stay phase of a running mode. , wherein the foot support 52 of the travel path approaches the second longest amplitude path 116. The detail cut in Figure 18 shows spring 106 in a compressed state compared to that in Figure 16. This is due to shaft stop 120 contacting one end of spring 106 as it is trapped within of sleeve 104. Accordingly, as shaft 102 extends away from sleeve 104, spring 106 is compressed, deflecting compression link 100 to a more retracted position.

<img file="MX336501B_D0032.tif" />

An alternative support system is shown in Figures 19

22, in which the support system 99 'includes a band of so0 © ri® coupled so that it can be moved to the frame 36. The band 122 may be two separate but identical bands 122 placed in a parallel arrangement close to the foot supports 52, so that when a foot support 52 descends to a predetermined height relative to the frame, a portion of the support foot 52 makes contact with band 122, thereby limiting the lowermost position of foot support 52. An embodiment is shown in which there are two bands 122, each supported by a front base pulley 124 and a rear base pulley 126. It may be desirable to provide elastomeric properties to the support of the foot supports 52, as suggested by the use of compression spring 106 in compression link 100, as shown and described above. In this embodiment, a similar cushioned support can be achieved by providing a band 122 that includes elastic properties. As such, band 122 can flex or stretch as the foot support contacts an upper run 128 of band 122. As the user provides force to the foot support during the gait phase of walking. The band 122 can flex to allow a determined submission to the load applied by the weight of the user.

An alternative form of an elastomeric support for the foot supports 52 is to use a substantially non-elastic band 122 as defined by a small elongation of the band 122 under load. A

<img file="MX336501B_D0033.tif" />

Idler roll 130 may be provided with a deflection member in place to maintain tension on band 122.

As shown in Figures 20 and 21, when the foot support 52 contacts an upper stroke 128 of the band 122, the idler roller 130 is displaced to accommodate the displacement in the upper stroke 128 of the band 122 due to the normal load applied through the foot support 52.

The rear portion of the alternative support system 99 'is shown in detail in Figure 22. The bands 122 are supported by the rear base pulleys 126. If a brake or other resistance to movement of the foot supports 52 is required, A shaft impeller 134 can be used to restrict rotation of rear base pulleys 126 and thus belts 122, thereby requiring work to be performed by the user. As an alternative, the shaft impeller 134 may also be a positive drive, thereby driving the rear base pulleys 126 and, consequently, the bands 122. By driving the bands 122 when a foot support contacts the stroke Upper 128 of a band 122, the foot support 52 can be actively propelled backwards as would normally be done when a user's foot is moved during a running or walking mode. In that, the foot supports 52 can also be linked as noted above, when a foot support 52 is moving in a posterior direction relative to the user, since the foot support could be in the

Ib • o '7 ik í v a typical walking or running gait, the other foot stand elevated and is moving in an earlier direction. This energized ^^^ system can allow walking or running guidance for a disabled individual, whereby muscles are physically trained.

Furthermore, because stride length is determined by the user, there is a certain neurological requirement to be controlled by the user. In neurologically disabled individuals, such as heart attack survivors, neurological training may be as important as muscle training. By adding a harness to support the wearer's weight and eliminate fall, a system like the one shown and described may be more beneficial for the rehabilitation of neurologically disabled individuals than the more expensive and complex fully controlled ambulatory training devices.

An alternative control system is shown in Figures 23 a

25. The training device 38 'in this modality, includes a frame

36, which supports a first upper link 44 connected to a first lower link 46 and a foot support 52 on the lower end thereof.

In a similar way, a second upper link 48 can be provided, which can be pivotally coupled to the frame 36 and includes a second lower link 50 with a foot bracket 52 coupled to the second lower link 50. A third element transfer element 68 can be coupled to the first lower link 46 and another third transfer element coupled to the second lower link 50. In this embodiment, the first

ÜOgg ^ jy- ί upper link 44 and second upper link 48 can be mounted, InHiiux

Mewcenc each on an inner sprocket 136. The third elements &lt;j¿qg Propledo

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Transfer 68 can be coupled to a transfer coupling 70, which can be connected to an outer sprocket 138 by means of a shaft 140 attached to frame 36.

A first transfer system 54 can be used to transfer movement from the first upper link 44 to the second upper link 48 via the first transfer bar 62, which can connect the inner sprockets 136 through the first transfer element 58 and the second transfer element 60. In this embodiment, the first transfer element 58 and the second transfer element 60 can be in the form of a chain, band or other flexible roller transmission element, as opposed to a substantially rigid link, as shown in the previous modalities. The direction of movement of the first transfer element 58 can be substantially the opposite of that of the second transfer element 60 by means of the first gear 64 'coupled to the second gear 66' in a radical orientation. Substantially opposite rotation of the first gear 64 'relative to the second gear 66' drives the sprocket 141 in a direction opposite to that of the first transfer bar 62. This combination allows for substantially reciprocating movement of the first uplink 44 relative to the second uplink 48.

<img file="MX336501B_D0034.tif" />

In this embodiment of the present invention, the first lower link 46 is in communication with the second lower link 50 pjR &amp; Ag of the third transfer elements 68, as noted above. The outer sprockets 138 drive the fourth 5 transfer elements 72 to the second transfer system 56, thereby linking the first lower link 46 to the second lower link 50. The second transfer system 56 may include a second transfer bar 74 to facilitate power transfer to the outer sprockets 138 and thus to the first lower link 10 46 and the second lower link 50 by means of the third drive elements. transfer 68.

In this embodiment, the substantially reciprocating motion of the first lower link 46 to the second lower link 50 can be accomplished by a lower link control system 142. Referring to Figure 25, a drive motor 144 is used to provide torque to the second bar 74 by means of a drive belt 146 that articulates a drive pulley 148 mounted on the second transfer bar 74. A pair of clutches 150 can be used to regulate the torque output of the second transfer bar 74, via the drive motor 144 to the fourth transfer elements 72, which, in turn, apply force to the first lower link 46 and the second lower link

fifty. An advantage of such a lower link control system 142 is that it can provide an ability to change the interaction between the

<img file="MX336501B_D0035.tif" />

first lower link 46 and second lower link 50, which can be SfWtóe · RfeleaFsc modified during use, according to the speed of movii ^ iteJ ^ © pS @ d © c direction of movement and position in space of any of the leg links (44, 48, 46 and 50). This allows a dynamic system that can be altered by the user's gait or speed. One or more sensors can be used to determine the speed or movement or orientation of a leg link relative to any other leg link and a logic system to read this information and adjust the clutches 150 to alter the torque around the union of the first lower link 46 and first upper link 44, as well as the junction of the second lower link 50 and the second upper link 48. By varying these roques, a user's gait pattern can be imitated or supported by device 38 'to allow for a smooth and comfortable exercise session for a user.

Another embodiment of device 38 "" is illustrated in Figures 26 through 31. A frame 36 'supports a first uplink 44' and a second uplink 48 'around joints 152 and 154, respectively. A first lower link 46 'can be pivotally coupled to the first upper link 44' at junction 156 and the second lower link 50 'can be coupled to the second upper link 48' at junction 158. A foot bracket 52 can be placed at a distal end of each of the first lower link 46 'and the second lower link 50'. This link combination may be similar in function to that described above in the present disclosure. There is a support guide 160 attached to each of the

<img file="MX336501B_D0036.tif" />

LoJlXCXJ emente first lower link 46 'and second lower link 50', poslb

<img file="MX336501B_D0037.tif" />

near the foot supports 52. The support guides 160, are received one by means of a guide rail 162, each guide rail 162 can be movably mounted to the frame 36 'around an axis 163. The guide rails 162 can be made to be moved in a substantially reciprocating motion relative to one another by the first transfer element 58 'and a second transfer element 60'. A first transfer system 54 'includes a first transfer bar 62' that connects a pair of pulley arms 164 at each end of the first transfer bar 62 '. Pulley arms 164 may include a pulley 166 adapted to engage each of the first transfer element 58 'and the second transfer element 60'. Pulley arms 164 may be located substantially on an opposite side of first transfer bar 62 'so that from a side view, as one pulley 166 moves substantially forward, the other pulley 166 moves substantially rearward . This causes displacement of the first transfer element 58 'to be substantially opposite to that of the second transfer element 60', thus allowing a substantially reciprocating action of the guide rails 162 with each other and with it, the support guides. 160 and the foot supports 52 mounted adjacent to the support guides 160.

The movement of the support guides 160 along the guide rails 162 can be controlled by a third transfer element 68 '

<img file="MX336501B_D0038.tif" />

³² Ε

Π coupled to a lower portion of support guides 160 and a fourth transfer element 72 'coupled to an upper portion of support 160. The third transfer element 68' on each side of device 38, as well as the fourth elements Transfer bars 72 'are coupled to a second transfer system 56', which includes a second transfer bar 74 '. In this embodiment, the third transfer elements 68 'and the fourth transfer elements 72' can be a flexible structure, such as a roller chain, band or belt. The third transfer elements 68 'and the fourth transfer elements 72' can be coupled to the second transfer bar 74 'by means of the couplings 70 in the form of toothed wheels or pulleys. This combination provides a substantially forward movement of a support guide 160, and accordingly, the associated foot support 52 will result in a substantially backward movement of the other support guide 160 and the associated foot support 52. The combination of the first transfer system 54 'and the second transfer system 56' and the associated links allow for substantially reciprocating movement along the guide rails 162 and the generally vertical movement of the guide rails 162 simultaneously, offering this way a stay platform to perform an infinite number of gait pattern movements of a user placed on the foot supports 52.

D10

A resistance system 168 can also be provided for IndtgRaíe M @ xSe @ rse · the second transfer system 56 ', as shown in figures teRK? Pl © í3e¡ £ índusWi

31, or for the first transfer system 54 '. Resistance system 168 may include a brake 170, motor, or any other form of resistance to resist movement of second transfer bar 74 '. A spring centering system 172 may be included in the first transfer system 54 'to include a pair of springs 174 to guide the first transfer system 54' to a previously defined position.

Referring to Figures 32 to 35, a device 38 produced in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown. Some aspects of this modality are similar to those shown in the previous figures that are not designated with a prime number value after the numerical designation. Similar to those modalities previously observed, a first uplink 44 is coupled to a first Downlink 46 and a second uplink 48 is similarly coupled to a second Downlink 50.

A pair of third transfer elements 68 'is, in this embodiment, shown in the form of rigid links, with a fixed length. As described above, these third transfer elements 68 'are coupled to the first Lower link 46 and the second lower link 50, each with a second end coupled to a transfer coupling 70.

A pair of fourth transfer elements 72 connects each of the two transfer couplings 70 to the second transfer system

<img file="MX336501B_D0039.tif" />

56. In this embodiment, the second transfer system 56 includes a

<img file="MX336501B_D0040.tif" />

IrídusW second transfer bar 74, which includes a first lug which is positioned substantially opposite to a second lug 178. This substantially opposite orientation of the first lug 176 relative to the second lug 178 allows the movement of either one substantially or the fourth transfer elements to the other fourth transfer element 72.

A similar system can be used in the first transfer system 54 in which a first transfer bar 62 can be provided with a first bar lug 180 positioned substantially opposite to a second bar lug 182. As in the case of the second transfer system 56, the first transfer bar 62 of the first transfer system 54 provides substantially opposite displacement of the first transfer element 58 relative to the second transfer element 60, thereby allowing the substantially reciprocating motion of the first uplink 44 relative to the second uplink 48. To assist and guide the user, the compression link 100 may be provided to limit the Lower movement of the foot support 52 under the user's foot during the gait phase. As described above, the compression link 100 may include a spring or other deflection element that provides a cushion to meet the superior force of the user during the middle of the stay phase of the

<img file="MX336501B_D0041.tif" />

most gait patterns. In addition, the deviation compression link 100 can assist with the retraction of the foot from the toe at the end of the stay phase and the oscillation of many running and walking movement patterns. As such, it may be desired to use compression link 100 in this or other embodiments of the present invention.

An alternative source of resistance has been provided in the form of a hydraulic damper 184. This may be a one-way shock, which provides compressive strength, thereby resisting the tendency of the first top link 44, and the second link upper 48 to be under the weight of the user. The retraction, or upward movement of the first upper link 44 and the second upper link 48 may not be restricted if the damper 184 offers little or no resistance to cylinder extension of the damper 184. Any form of resistance commonly known in the art can be used in any number of locations, including the first transfer system 54, the second transfer system 56, the fourth transfer elements 72 or in this case, the first transfer element 58 and the second transfer element 60 near the junction with the first uplink 44 and the second uplink 48, respectively. A restriction on the movement of any part of the system may result in a restriction on the movement of the foot supports 52 because the foot supports 52 can

<img file="MX336501B_D0042.tif" />

Property to be connected through link systems, as shown and described.

The foregoing detailed description of the present invention is provided for purposes of illustration, and is not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present invention to the particular embodiment shown. The embodiments can provide different capabilities and benefits, depending on the configuration used to implement the key features of the present invention.