SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR CYCLING DEVICE HAVING PEDALS WITH INDEPENDENTLY ADJUSTABLE RESISTANCE

Abstract

An apparatus for exercise has a base with first and second ends. A housing is coupled to the base adjacent to the first end. Wheels are coupled to the housing. The wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis. Pedals can be engaged by a user. Each pedal is coupled to and extend from a respective wheel, and facilitate rotation of the wheels. A resistance mechanism can be coupled to the first housing adjacent to the wheels. The resistance mechanism can independently resist rotation of each of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user. An actuator can be coupled to the resistance mechanism and can actuate the resistance mechanism. A control system can be coupled to and control the actuator. The control system can independently vary the resistance to each of the wheels, and can independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

Claims

1. An apparatus for exercise by a user, the apparatus comprising: a base having first and second ends; a housing coupled to the base adjacent to the first end; wheels coupled to the housing, and the wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis; pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the respective wheels; a resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of each of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user; an actuator coupled to the resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the resistance mechanism; and a control system coupled to and configured to control the actuator, the control system is configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a friction brake having a brake pad to frictionally engage a respective wheel to resist rotation thereof.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein each of the wheels comprises a ratchet wheel, and lever arms configured to be rotated by the actuator to engage the respective ratchet wheels.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the resistance mechanism is coupled to the wheels to provide an eddy current to a respective wheel when the actuator activates the resistance mechanism.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control system is activated by a switch or button on the first housing.

6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control system is activated by a biometric sensor.

7. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the control system comprises a sensor, and the sensor is configured to detect a rotational velocity of the wheels.

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the wheels comprise flywheels.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising a seat coupled to the base and spaced from the first housing towards the second end, wherein the seat is configured to support the user on the apparatus.

10. An apparatus for exercise by a user, the apparatus comprising: a base having first and second ends; a housing coupled to the base adjacent to the first end; wheels coupled to the housing, and the wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis; pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the respective wheels; a resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the wheels, the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of each of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user, and the resistance mechanism is coupled to the wheels to provide an eddy current to a respective wheel when the actuator activates the resistance mechanism; an actuator coupled to the resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the resistance mechanism; and a control system coupled to and configured to control the actuator, the control system is configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a friction brake having a brake pad to frictionally engage a respective wheel to resist rotation thereof.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein each of the wheels comprises a ratchet wheel, and lever arms configured to be rotated by the actuator to engage the respective ratchet wheels.

13. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the control system is activated by a biometric sensor.

14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the control system comprises a sensor, and the sensor is configured to detect a rotational velocity of the wheels.

15. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein the wheels comprise flywheels.

16. The apparatus of claim 10, further comprising a seat coupled to the base and spaced from the first housing towards the second end, wherein the seat is configured to support the user on the apparatus.

17. An apparatus for exercise or rehabilitation of a user, the apparatus comprising: a base having first and second ends; a first housing coupled to the base adjacent to the first end; first wheels coupled to the first housing, and the first wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis; pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective first wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the respective first wheels; a first resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the first wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of each of the first wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user; a first actuator coupled to the first resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the first resistance mechanism; a first structure coupled to and extending from the first housing, and the first structure has a third end; a second structure pivotably coupled to the third end of the first structure, and the second structure has a fourth end; a second housing coupled to the fourth end of the second structure; second wheels coupled to the second housing, and the second wheels are independently rotatable about a second axis; hand pedals configured to be engaged by a user, wherein each hand pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective second wheel, and the hand pedals are configured to facilitate rotation thereof; a second resistance mechanism coupled to the second housing adjacent to the second wheels, and the second resistance mechanism is configured to resist rotation of the second wheels when the hand pedals are selectively engaged by the user; a second actuator coupled to the second resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the second resistance mechanism; and a control system coupled to and configured to control the first and second actuators, and the control system is configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the first and second wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the first and second wheels.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein, when the user applies a force to the pedals and hand pedals, the control system maintains a constant rotational velocity of the first and second wheels.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the first wheels and the second wheels are mechanically interconnected for causing rotation of the first and second wheels.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0007] For a detailed description of various embodiments, reference is made to the accompanying drawings.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the device.

[0009] FIG. 2 is a schematic perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the device.

[0010] FIG. 3 is a schematic perspective view of another embodiment of the device.

[0011] FIG. 4 is a schematic perspective view of yet another embodiment of the device.

[0012] FIG. 5A is a rear perspective view of an embodiment of the device and a user engaging the hand pedals.

[0013] FIG. 5B is a partial schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a housing of the device.

[0014] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the device, shown partially assembled.

[0015] FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 6A, shown assembled.

NOTATION AND NOMENCLATURE

[0016] Various terms are used to refer to particular system components. Different entities may refer to a component by different namesthis document does not intend to distinguish between components that differ in name but not function. In the following discussion and in the claims, the terms including and comprising are used in an open-ended fashion, and thus should be interpreted to mean including, but not limited to . . . . Also, the term couple or couples is intended to mean either an indirect or direct connection. Thus, if a first device couples to a second device, that connection may be through a direct connection or through an indirect connection via other devices and connections.

[0017] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only, and is not intended to be limiting. As used herein, the singular forms a, an, and the may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0018] The terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections; however, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as first, second, and other numerical terms, when used herein, do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments. The phrase at least one of, when used with a list of items, means that different combinations of one or more of the listed items may be used, and only one item in the list may be needed. For example, at least one of: A, B, and C includes any of the following combinations: A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, and A and B and C. In another example, the phrase one or more when used with a list of items means there may be one item or any suitable number of items exceeding one.

[0019] Spatially relative terms, such as inner, outer, beneath, below, lower, above, upper, top, bottom, and the like, may be used herein. These spatially relative terms can be used for ease of description to describe one element's or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. The spatially relative terms may also be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use, or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as below or beneath other elements or features would then be oriented above the other elements or features. Thus, the example term below can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptions used herein interpreted accordingly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0020] The subject matter of each of U.S. Pat. No. 10,226,663, issued Mar. 12, 2019; U.S. Pat. No. 10,173,094, issued Jan. 8, 2019; U.S. Pat. No. 10,173,095, issued Jan. 8, 2019; U.S. Pat. No. 10,173,096, issued Jan. 8, 2019; and U.S. Pat. No. 10,173,097, issued Jan. 8, 2019; and U.S. pending patent applications Ser. No. 16/241,167 filed Jan. 7, 2019; Ser. No. 16/812,462 filed Mar. 9, 2020; Ser. No. 16/813,158 filed Mar. 9, 2020; Ser. No. 16/813,158 filed Mar. 9, 2020; and Ser. No. 16/813,303 filed Mar. 9, 2020, is incorporated herein by reference.

[0021] Osteogenesis

[0022] As typically healthy people grow from infants to children to adults, they experience bone growth. Such, growth, however, typically stops at approximately age 30. After that point, without interventions as described herein, bone loss (called osteoporosis), can start to occur. This does not mean that the body stops creating new bone. Rather, it means that the rate at which it creates new bone tends to slow, while the rate at which bone loss occurs tends to increase.

[0023] In addition, as people age and/or become less active than they once were, they may experience muscle loss. For example, muscles that are not used often may reduce in muscle mass. As a result, the muscles become weaker. In some instances, people may be affected by a disease, such as muscular dystrophy, that causes the muscles to become progressively weaker and to have reduced muscle mass. To increase the muscle mass and/or reduce the rate of muscle loss, people may exercise a muscle to cause muscular hypertrophy, thereby strengthening the muscle as the muscle grows. Muscular hypertrophy may refer to an increase in a size of skeletal muscle through a growth in size of its component cells. There are two factors that contribute to muscular hypertrophy, (i) sarcoplasmic hypertrophy (increase in muscle glycogen storage), and (ii) myofibrillar hypertrophy (increase in myofibril size). The growth in the cells may be caused by an adaptive response that serves to increase an ability to generate force or resist fatigue.

[0024] The rate at which such bone or muscle loss occurs generally accelerates as people age. A net growth in bone can ultimately become a net loss in bone, longitudinally across time. In an average case, but noting that significant individual variations in age do occur, by the time women are over 50 and men are over 70, net bone loss can reach a point where brittleness of the bones is so great that an increased risk of life-altering fractures can occur. Examples of such fractures include fractures of the hip and femur. Of course, fractures can also occur due to participation in athletics or due to accidents. In such cases, it is just as relevant to have a need for bone growth which heals or speeds the healing of the fracture.

[0025] To understand why such fractures occur, it is useful to recognize that bone is itself porous, with a somewhat-honeycomb like structure. This structure may be dense and therefore stronger or it may be variegated, spread out and/or sparse, such latter structure being incapable of continuously or continually supporting the weight (load) stresses experienced in everyday living. When such loads exceed the support capability of the structure at a stressor point or points, a fracture occurs. This is true whether the individual had a fragile bone structure or a strong one: it is a matter of physics, of the literal breaking point.

[0026] It is therefore preferable to have a means of mitigating or ameliorating bone loss and of healing fractures; and, further, of encouraging new bone growth, thus increasing the density of the structure described hereinabove, thus increasing the load-bearing capacities of same, thus making first or subsequent fractures less likely to occur, thus improving the individual's quality of life. The process of bone growth itself is referred to as osteogenesis, literally the creation of bone.

[0027] It is also preferable to have a means for mitigating or ameliorating muscle mass loss and weakening of the muscles. Further, it is preferable to encourage muscle growth by increasing the muscle mass through exercise. The increased muscle mass may enable a person to exert more force with the muscle and/or to resist fatigue in the muscle for a longer period of time.

[0028] In order to create new bone, at least three factors are necessary. First, the individual must have a sufficient intake of calcium. However, to absorb that calcium, the individual must have a sufficient intake and absorption of vitamin D, a matter problematic for those who have cystic fibrosis, who have undergone gastric bypass surgery or have other absorption disorders or conditions which limit absorption. Separately, supplemental estrogen for women and supplemental testosterone for men can further ameliorate bone loss. On the other hand, abuse of alcohol and smoking can harm one's bone structure. Medical conditions such as, without limitation, rheumatoid arthritis, renal disease, overactive parathyroid glands, diabetes or organ transplants can also exacerbate osteoporosis. Ethical pharmaceuticals such as, without limitation, hormone blockers, seizure medications and glucocorticoids are also capable of inducing such exacerbations. But even in the absence of medical conditions as described hereinabove, Vitamin D and calcium taken together may not create osteogenesis to the degree necessary or possible; or ameliorate bone loss to the degree necessary or possible.

[0029] To achieve such a degree of osteogenesis, therefore, one should add in the third factor: exercise. Specifically, bones are subjected to a force at least equal to certain multiple of body weight, such multiples varying depending on the individual and the specific bone in question. As used herein, MOB means Multiples of Body Weight. It has been determined through research that subjecting a given bone to a certain threshold MOB (this may also be known as a weight-bearing exercise), even for an extremely short period of time, one simply sufficient to exceed the threshold MOB, encourages and fosters osteogenesis in that bone.

[0030] Further, a person can achieve muscular hypertrophy by exercising the muscles for which increased muscle mass is desired. Strength training and/or resistance exercise may cause muscle tissue to increase. For example, pushing against or pulling on a stationary object with a certain amount of force may trigger the cells in the associated muscle to change and cause the muscle mass to increase.

[0031] This disclosure relates to a machine and methods and apparatuses appurtenant thereto, not only capable of enabling an individual, preferably an older, less mobile individual or preferably an individual recovering from a fracture, to engage easily in osteogenic exercises, but capable of using predetermined thresholds or dynamically calculating them, such that the person using the machine can be immediately informed through visual and/or other sensorial feedback, that the osteogenic threshold has been exceeded, thus triggering osteogenesis for the subject bone (or bones) and further indicating that the then-present exercise may be terminated, enabling the person to move to a next machine-enabled exercise to enable osteogenesis in a preferably different bone or bones. For those with any or all of the osteoporosis-exacerbating medical conditions described herein, such a machine can slow the rate of net bone loss by enabling osteogenesis to occur without exertions which would not be possible for someone whose health is fragile, not robust. Another benefit can be its ability to speed the healing of fractures in athletically robust individuals.

[0032] Last, while this discussion has focused purely on osteogenesis, an additional benefit is that partaking in exercises which focus on osteogenesis may, in certain embodiments, also increase muscle strength and, as a physiological system, musculoskeletal strength.

[0033] Hypertrophy

[0034] Hypertrophy is defined as an increase in volume or bulk of a tissue or organ produced entirely by enlargement of existing cells. Hypertrophy as described herein specifically refers to muscle hypertrophy.

[0035] Bone Exercises and their Benefits

[0036] The following exercises achieve bone strengthening results by exposing relevant parts of a user to isometric forces which are selected multiples of body weight (MOB) of the user, a threshold level above which bone mineral density increases. The specific MOB-multiple threshold necessary to effect such increases will naturally vary from individual to individual and may be more or less for any given individual. Bone-strengthening, as used herein, specifically includes, without limitation, a process of osteogenesis, whether due to the creation of new bone as a result of an increase in the bone mineral density; or proximately to the introduction or causation of microfractures in the underlying bone. The exercises referred to are as follows.

[0037] Leg Press

[0038] An isometric leg-press-style exercise to improve muscular strength in the following key muscle groups: gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, spinal extensors and grip muscles as well as to increase resistance to skeletal fractures in leg bones such as the femur. In one example, the leg-press-style exercise can be performed at approximately 4.2 MOB or more of the user.

[0039] Chest Press

[0040] An isometric chest press-style exercise to improve muscular strength in the following key muscle groups: pectorals, deltoids, and tricep and grip muscles as well as in increasing resistance to skeletal fractures in the humerus, clavicle, radial, ulnar and rib pectoral regions. In one example, the chest-press-style exercise can be performed at approximately 2.5 MOB or more of the user.

[0041] Suitcase Lift

[0042] An isometric suitcase-lift-style exercise to improve muscular strength in the following key muscle groups: gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, spinal extensors, abdominals, and upper back and grip muscles as well as to increase resistance to skeletal fractures in the femur and spine. In one example, the suitcase-lift-style exercise can be performed at approximately 2.5 MOB or more of the user.

[0043] Arm Curl

[0044] An isometric arm-curl-style exercise to improve muscular strength in the following key muscle groups: biceps, brachialis, brachioradialis, grip muscles and trunk as well as in increasing resistance to skeletal fractures in the humerus, ribs and spine. In one example, the arm-curl-style exercise can be performed at approximately 1.5 MOB or more of the user.

[0045] Core Pull

[0046] An isometric core pull-style exercise to improve muscular strength in the following key muscle groups: elbow flexors, grip muscles, latissimus dorsi, hip flexors and trunk as well as in increasing resistance to skeletal fractures in the ribs and spine. In one example, the core-pull-style exercise can be performed at approximately 1.5 MOB or more of the user.

[0047] Grip Strength

[0048] A grip strengthening-style exercise which may preferably be situated around a station in an exercise machine, in order to improve strength in the muscles of the hand and forearm. Grip strength is medically salient because it has been positively correlated with a better state of health.

[0049] In the following description, details are set forth to facilitate an understanding of the present disclosure. In some instances, certain structures and techniques have not been described or shown in detail in order not to obscure the disclosure.

[0050] The following discussion is directed to various embodiments. Although these embodiments are given as examples, the embodiments disclosed should not be interpreted, or otherwise used, as limiting the scope of the disclosure, including the claims. In addition, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the following description has broad application. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be exemplary of that embodiment. Thus, the discussion is not intended to intimate that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to that embodiment.

[0051] Exercise machines can provide isometric exercises to facilitate osteogenesis and muscle hypertrophy. Such exercise machines can include equipment in which there are no moving parts while the user is performing an isometric exercise. While there may be some flexing under load, pnincidental movement resulting from the tolerances of interlocking parts, and parts that can move while performing adjustments on the exercise machines, these flexions and movements can comprise, without limitation, exercise machines capable of isometric exercise and rehabilitation. In addition, such exercise machines may also include equipment or devices including moving parts to provide dynamic exercises to facilitate osteogenesis and muscle hypertrophy. A dynamic exercise can be, but is not limited to an exercise where a user participates in an activity where the user moves and some resistance or load is provided against the movement of the user.

[0052] FIGS. 1-6 illustrate embodiments of an apparatus 20 for exercise or rehabilitation of a user. The apparatus 20 can be a cycling device that can be used for exercise and/or rehabilitation. The apparatus 20 comprises a base 22 having a pair of sides 24 and first and second ends 26, 28. In the present embodiment of the base 22, and as illustrated in the drawings, the base 22 is rectangular. However, the base 22 could be of any shape. For example, the base 22 could be rounded or square. In addition, in the present embodiment of the base 22, the pair of sides 24 and the ends 26, 28 can taper. For an individual who has limited mobility, the taper of the pair of sides 24 and ends 26, 28 allows for ease of ingress and egress onto and off of, respectively, the base 22. However, the base 22 could have raised rectangular edges, and the base 22 may include a step for ingress and egress onto and off of the base 22. To assist the individual with limited mobility, slip pads 30 can be coupled to the base 22 adjacent each side 24 to prevent slipping during ingress and egress onto and off of the base 22.

[0053] FIGS. 1-5B illustrate embodiments of a cycling device having pedals with independently adjustable resistance. For example, one version includes a first housing 32 that can be coupled to the base 22. The first housing 32 can be disposed adjacent to the first end 24. The first housing 32 can have first and second sides 34, 36 spaced from one another, and an outer surface 38 positioned between the first and second sides 34, 36. The first and second sides 34, 36, and the outer surface 38 can define a cavity, not shown, of the first housing 32. The first housing 32 can present first and second openings 40, 42 in the first and second sides 34, 36, respectively.

[0054] In some embodiments of the apparatus 20, and as best illustrated in FIGS. 1 & 5A, a first structure 74 can be coupled to and extend from the first housing 32. For example, the first structure 74 can comprise a frame member, such as a beam. The first structure 74 can have a third end 76. In addition, a second structure 78 can be pivotably coupled to the third end 76 of the first structure 74. The second structure 78 may comprise a frame member, such as a beam. The second structure 78 can include a fourth end 80. It should be appreciated that the structures 74, 78 may include telescopic portions such that their respective lengths can be adjusted by the user. Handles 50 also may be coupled to the fourth end 80 of the second structure 78. In such an embodiment, a second housing 82 can be coupled to the fourth end 80 of the second structure 78. The second housing 82 can define a second cavity, which is not numbered or shown.

[0055] In various embodiments of the apparatus 20, a seat 46 can be coupled to the base 22, and the seat 46 can be spaced from the first housing 32 towards the second end 28. The seat 46 can be configured to support the user. In one embodiment, and as illustrated in the FIGS. 1 and 5A, the base 22 can define a groove 44 that extends from the first housing 30 towards the second end 28. The seat 46 can be coupled to and slid within the groove 44 between a plurality of positions, and the seat 46 can be lockable in any one of the plurality of positions. For example, the seat 46 may be coupled to and slid within the groove 44 by rollers, and the seat 46 could be locked in any one of the plurality of positions by a ratcheting type mechanism. However, one of skill in the art will appreciate that alternative means can be used to couple the seat 46 to the groove 44, and to allow the seat 46 to slide within the groove 44 and be lockable in a plurality of positions. The seat 46 may also comprise a back 48 and a pair of handles 50. One of skill in the art will appreciate that there are many variations for the seat 46 that could be used. For example, the back 48 could be adjustable between a plurality of positions. Moreover, the seat 46 may include an audio output device, an audio receiving device, a biometric sensor, a haptic feedback device and/or other suitable device(s).

[0056] In certain embodiments, the apparatus 20 can have first wheels 52 coupled to the base 22. The first wheels 52 can be a pair of first wheels 52, and the first wheels 52 may be flywheels. The first wheels 52 can be coupled to the first housing 32, and the first wheels 52 can be independently rotatable about a first axis A. In FIGS. 1 and 5A, the first wheels 52 can be coupled to the first housing 32 in the cavity, and the first wheels 52 can be partially coupled to the first and second openings 40, 42, respectively. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the first wheels 52 may be coupled to the base 22 by various means known in the art. As one example, and with reference to FIG. 2, a support beam 54 can extend from the base 22 to a first axial 56, where the first axial 56 extends along the first axis A. In this embodiment, the first wheels 52 can be coupled to and independently rotatable about the first axial 56.

[0057] In some embodiments, pedals 58 can be coupled to and extend from a respective first wheel 52. The pedals 58 can be configured to be engaged by the user, and the pedals 58 can facilitate rotation of the respective first wheels 52. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the pedals 58 can be movably coupled to the first wheels 52. More specifically, the pedals 58 can be adjusted radially by the user to various positions to accommodate the needs of the user. During use of the apparatus 20, the user can sit in the seat 46 and engage the pedals 58. It should be readily appreciated that the user may adjust the seat 46 and/or the pedals 58 to a desired position to accommodate the needs of the user for exercise or rehabilitation. When the user engages the pedals 58, the user may apply a force to respective pedals 58 to engage and cause rotation of a respective first wheel 52. By engaging respective pedals 58 and applying a force to the same, the user, to support osteogenesis, engages various muscles to push the respective pedals 58.

[0058] In yet another embodiment of the apparatus 20 (FIG. 5A), second wheels 84 can be coupled to and coupled to the cavity of the second housing 82. The second wheels 84 can be a pair of wheels, and the second wheels 84 may be flywheels. One of skill in the art will appreciate that the second wheels 84 may be coupled to the second housing 82 by various means known in the art. For example, a second axial 100 can be coupled to the second housing 82, and the second axial 100 extends along a second axis B. In this embodiment, the second wheels 84 can be coupled to and independently rotatable about the second axial 100.

[0059] In certain embodiment of the apparatus 20, the hand pedals 86 can be coupled to and extend from a respective second wheel 84. The hand pedals 86 can be configured to be engaged by a user, and the hand pedals 86 can be configured to facilitate rotation of the respective second wheels 84. Similar to the pedals 58, when the user engages the hand pedals 86, the user may apply a force to a respective hand pedals 86 to engage and cause rotation of a respective second wheels 84. By engaging the respective hand pedals 86 and applying forces to the same, the user, to support osteogenesis, can engage various muscles to push and pull the respective hand pedals 86.

[0060] To further support osteogenesis during use of the apparatus 20 by a user, the apparatus 20 can include a first resistance mechanism 60. In FIG. 2, the resistance mechanism 60 can be coupled to the base 22, and the first resistance mechanism 60 can be coupled to the first housing 32 adjacent to the first wheels 52. When the first pedals 59 are selectively engaged by the user, the first resistance mechanism 60 can be configured to resist rotation of each of the first wheels 52. In yet another embodiment, and as best illustrated in FIGS. 5 and 5a, a second resistance mechanism 88 can be coupled to and coupled to the second housing 82 adjacent to the second wheels 84. When the hand pedals 86 are selectively engaged by the user, the second resistance mechanism 88 can be configured to resist rotation of the second wheels 84. It is to be appreciated that in the embodiments of this disclosure, the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 are similar in structure and operation for resisting rotation of the wheels 52, 84. Accordingly, the following disclosure discusses the various embodiments of the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 with specific reference to the first resistance mechanism 60. However, such similarities between the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 of the present disclosure are not meant to be limiting. The resistance mechanisms 60, 88 may differ in structure and operation for resisting rotations of the wheels 52, 84 such that the first resistance mechanism 60 comprises one of the below embodiments, and the second resistance mechanism 88 is comprise of another of the below embodiments. Moreover, one or both of the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 may resist rotation of the wheels 52, 84 by any means known in the art.

[0061] In one embodiment (FIG. 3), the resistance mechanism 160 can comprise a friction brake 162 that can have a brake pad to frictionally engage a respective first wheel 52 to resist rotation thereof. More specifically, the resistance mechanism 160 pushes a respective brake pad 162 into the respective first wheel. It is to be appreciated that the friction brake 162 may frictionally engage the first wheels 152 in any manner known in the art. For example, the friction brake 162 may comprise two brake pads that push together to frictionally engage and resist rotation of a respective first wheel 152.

[0062] In another embodiment, and with reference to FIG. 4, the resistance mechanism 260 can comprise ratchet wheels 264 and lever arms 266 that can be configured to be rotated to engage the respective ratchet wheels 264. More specifically, each of the first wheels 252 can comprise the ratchet wheels 264, and lever arms 266 can be rotatably coupled to the base 22. The lever arms 266 can be configured to rotate to engage the respective ratchet wheels 264 to resist rotation of the first wheels 252. It is to be appreciated that the lever arms 266 can be independently rotatable to engage a respective ratchet wheel 264 of a respective first wheel 252 to resist rotation thereof.

[0063] In yet another embodiment (not illustrated), the resistance mechanism 360 may be coupled to the first wheels 352 to provide an eddy current to a respective first wheel 352 to resist rotation of thereof. It is also contemplated that the eddy current can be applied to another structure that is coupled to the first wheel 352. The eddy current can induce a magnetic flux that can be configured to resist rotation of the respective first wheels 352. The resistance mechanism 360 can have an electromagnet or transformer for providing the eddy current to induce a magnetic flux that can be configured to resist rotation of the respective first wheels 352. It is also contemplated that the first wheels 352 can be coupled to a fluid, wherein resistance mechanism 360 could pass an electric current through the fluid to change at least one physical property of the fluid to resist rotation of a respective first wheel 352. For example, the fluid could be contained within the first housing 332, and the first wheel 352 is submerged in a fluid. However, other embodiments wherein the first wheel 352 is partially submerged in a fluid are contemplated.

[0064] In most embodiments, the apparatus 20 can further comprise a first actuator 68 that can be coupled to the resistance mechanism 60. The first actuator 68 can be configured to actuate the resistance mechanism 60. In some embodiments (FIG. 5B), a second actuator 90 can be coupled to and coupled to the second housing 82. The second actuator 90 can be coupled to the second resistance mechanism 88, and the second actuator 90 can be configured to actuate the second resistance mechanism 88. When the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 are actuated by the respective actuators 68, 90, the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 can resist rotation of the respective wheels 52, 84. It is to be appreciated that the actuators 68, 90 can be of any type of actuator known in the art. For example, the actuators 68, 90 may be, without limitation, a linear actuator, haptic actuator, manual or automatic actuator, pneumatic actuator, electrical actuator, or hydraulic actuator. The actuators 68, 90 may be similar in structure and operation, or they may differ.

[0065] In yet another embodiment (FIGS. 2-4) the apparatus 20 can comprise a first motor 70 that can be coupled to the base 22 and coupled to the first housing 32 adjacent to the first wheels 52. The first motor 70 can be releasably coupled to or configured to engage the respective first wheels 52 to affect independent rotation of the first wheels 52. By regulating rotation of the first wheels 52, the first motor 70 can affect the independent rotation of the first wheels 52. In some embodiments of the apparatus 20, a second motor 92 can be coupled to and coupled to the second housing 82 adjacent to the second wheels 84. The second motor 92 can be releasably coupled to or configured to engage the second wheels 84 to regulate independent rotation of the second wheels 84.

[0066] It is to be appreciated that the apparatus 20 could comprise a motor coupled to each of the wheels 52, 84 and each motor is configured to affect or regulate the independent rotation of a respective wheel 52, 84. Moreover, the motors 70, 92 affect or regulate the independent rotation of the wheels 52, 84 by engaging the wheels 52, 84 and selectively causing or resisting rotation of the wheels 52, 84. The motors 70, 92 can engage the wheels 52, 84 by any means known in the art. In one example, the motors 70, 92 could engage gears to cause rotation of the wheels 52, 84. It is to be appreciated that the motors 70, 92 can operate congruently with or independently of the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 to affect or regulate the rotation of the wheels 52, 84. In certain embodiments, the motors 70, 92 can cause rotation of the wheels 52, 84, and the motors 70, 92 can resist rotation of the wheels 52, 84. In other embodiments with the motors 70, 92 and the resistance mechanisms 60, 88, the motors 70, 92 can rotate the wheels 52, 84 and the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 can resist or stop rotation of the wheels 52, 84 when the motor 70, 92 stops rotating the wheels 52, 84. For regulating or affecting the rotation of the wheels 52, 84, the present disclosure allows for many variations and combinations of the motors 70, 92 and the resistance mechanisms 60, 88.

[0067] In a further embodiment of the apparatus 20, a control system 94 can be coupled to the actuators 68, 90, and the control system 94 can be configured to control the actuators 68, 90. Moreover, the control system 94 can be configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the wheels 52, 84 to maintain a select rotational velocity thereof, and to independently stop rotation of the wheels 52, 84. More specifically, the control system 94 can control the actuators 68, 90 to activate the resistance mechanisms 60, 88 to independently vary the resistance of the wheels 52, 84. In certain embodiments, the control system 94 can be coupled to the motors 70, 92, and the control system 94 can be configured to control the motors 70, 92. Additionally, the control system 94 can be configured to independently maintain select rotational velocities of the wheels 52, 84, and to independently stop rotation of the wheels 52, 84. More specifically, the control system 94 can control the motors 70, 92 to independently maintain select rotational velocities of the wheels 52, 84 by rotating, resisting, or stopping rotation of the wheels 52, 84. It is to be appreciated that the control system 94 may control the actuators 68, 90 and/or the motors 70, 92 simultaneously or independently to maintain the select rotational velocities of the wheels 52, 84. For communicating the rotational velocities or accelerations of the wheels 52, 84 to the control system 94, the control system 94 may also include sensors located on the user or coupled to the wheels 52, 84. With the rotational velocities or accelerations received from the sensors, the control system 94 can determine, with a processor of the control system 94, a select rotational velocity of the wheels 52, 84. The control system 94 can then control the motors 70, 92 and/or the actuators 68, 90 to maintain the select rotational velocities of the wheels 52, 84.

[0068] During use of the apparatus 20 by a user, when the user applies a force to the pedals 58 and/or the hand pedals 86, the control system 94 can maintain a constant rotational velocity between each of the wheels 52, 84. Alternatively, the wheels 52, 84 can be mechanically interconnected. For example, the wheels 52, 84 could be mechanically interconnected by a chain, belt, gear system, or any other means to maintain a constant rotational velocity between the wheels 52, 84.

[0069] In some embodiment of the apparatus 20 (FIGS. 1 and 5A), a switch 96 can be disposed on the first housing 32 for activating the control system 94. In another embodiment, a button, not illustrated, may be disposed on the first housing 32 for activating the control system 94. In yet another embodiment, a display 98, such as a computer screen, iPad, or like device, can be coupled to the apparatus 20 to activate the control system 94. The switch 96, display 98, and/or button may be coupled to the apparatus 20 by alternative or other means. For example, the switch 96, display 98, and/or button could be coupled to the handle 50 or the seat 46. It is further to be appreciated that alternative means could be used to activate the control system 94 and the use of the switch 96, display 98, or button, is not meant to be limiting.

[0070] In another embodiment, one or more biometric sensors, not shown, may be coupled to the apparatus 20 for activating the control system 94. The biometric sensor could be for, inter alia, detection, recognition, validation and/or analysis of data relating to: facial characteristics; a fingerprint, hand, eye (iris), or voice signature; DNA; and/or handwriting. In yet another embodiment, the biometric sensor can comprise position sensors located on the user. In addition, it is contemplated that advancements of such biometric sensors may result in alternative sensors that could be incorporated in the apparatus 20, i.e., biometric type sensors not currently on the market may be utilized. Further, the one or more biometric sensors may comprise a biometric system, which may be standalone or integrated.

[0071] The present disclosure can include a method for facilitating exercise of a user. The method can comprise a step of providing a cycling apparatus having independently rotatable wheels 52, 84 with pedals 58 and/or hand pedals 86. Examples of such cycling apparatus having independently rotatable wheels 52, 84 with pedals 58 and/or hand pedals 86 are described above in the embodiment of apparatus 20. However, one of skill in the art will appreciate that other cycling apparatuses may be used to facilitate the method. Another step of the method can comprise engaging and applying forces to the pedals 58 and/or hand pedals 86. For example, a user may engage the pedals 58 with feet and the hand pedals 86 with hands. When the pedals 58 and the hand pedals 86 are engaged, muscles of the user in the legs, feet, arms and/or hands can be activated by the user to apply forces to the respective pedals 58 and the hand pedals 86. The method can also comprise the steps of sensing a rotational velocity of each of the wheels 52, 84, and calculating a selected rotational velocity for each of the wheels 52, 84. As one example, the control system 94 of the apparatus 20 may sense a rotational velocity of the wheels 52, 84 with a sensor, and the control system 94 can then determine the rotational velocity of each of the wheels 52, 84. Moreover, the control system 94 can calculate a select rotational velocity for each of the wheels 52, 84. Yet another step of the method can comprise selectively and independently resisting rotation of the wheels 52, 84 to maintain the select rotational velocity of each wheel 52, 84. In some embodiments of the apparatus 20, the control system 94 can selectively and independently control the motors 70, 92 and/or the actuators 68, 90 to resist rotation of the wheels 52, 84 to maintain the selected rotation velocity of each wheel 52, 84.

[0072] FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another embodiment of the device 600, shown partially assembled. Device 600 includes a floor mat and special caps for legs on conventional furniture, such as a chair or sofa. In some versions, the conventional furniture is not included. FIG. 6B is a perspective view of the device 600, shown assembled and engaging the floor mat, caps and conventional furniture.

[0073] 1. An apparatus for exercise by a user, the apparatus comprising:

[0074] a base having first and second ends;

[0075] a housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0076] wheels coupled to the housing, and the wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0077] pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the respective wheels;

[0078] a resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of each of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0079] an actuator coupled to the resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the resistance mechanism; and

[0080] a control system coupled to the actuator and configured to control the actuator, and the control system is configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0081] 2. The apparatus, wherein the resistance mechanism comprises a friction brake having a brake pad to frictionally engage a respective wheel to resist rotation thereof.

[0082] 3. The apparatus, wherein each of the wheels comprises a ratchet wheel, and lever arms configured to be rotated by the actuator to engage the respective ratchet wheels.

[0083] 4. The apparatus, wherein the resistance mechanism is coupled to the wheels to provide an eddy current to a respective wheel when the actuator activates the resistance mechanism.

[0084] 5. The apparatus, wherein the control system is activated by a switch on the first housing.

[0085] 6. The apparatus, wherein the control system is activated by a button on the first housing.

[0086] 7. The apparatus, wherein the control system is activated by a biometric sensor.

[0087] 8. The apparatus, wherein the control system comprises a sensor, and the sensor is configured to detect the rotational velocity of the wheels.

[0088] 9. The apparatus, wherein the wheels are flywheels.

[0089] 10. The apparatus, further comprising a seat coupled to the base and spaced from the first housing towards the second end, wherein the seat is configured to support the user on the apparatus.

[0090] 11. An apparatus for use for exercise, the apparatus comprising:

[0091] a base having first and second ends;

[0092] a housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0093] a seat coupled to the base and spaced from the housing towards the second end, wherein the seat is configured to support a user using the apparatus;

[0094] wheels coupled to the housing, and the wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0095] pedals configured to be engaged by a user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the wheels;

[0096] a motor coupled to the housing adjacent to the wheels, and the motor is releasably coupled to the respective wheels to affect independent rotation of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user; and

[0097] a control system coupled to the motor and configured to control the motor, and the control system configured to independently maintain select rotational velocities of the wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0098] 12. An apparatus for use by a user for exercise, the apparatus comprising:

[0099] a base having first and second ends;

[0100] a housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0101] wheels coupled to the housing, and the wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0102] pedals configured to be engaged by a user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the wheels;

[0103] a resistance mechanism coupled to the housing adjacent to the wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to selectively resist rotation of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0104] an actuator coupled to the resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the resistance mechanism;

[0105] a motor coupled to the housing adjacent to the wheels, and the motor is releasably coupled to the respective wheels to affect independent rotation of the wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user; and

[0106] a control system coupled to and configured to control the motor and the actuator, wherein the control system is configured to maintain select rotational velocities of each wheel, and configured to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0107] 13. An apparatus for use by a user in exercise and rehabilitation, the apparatus comprising:

[0108] a base having first and second ends;

[0109] a first housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0110] first wheels coupled to the first housing, and the first wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0111] pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective first wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the respective first wheels;

[0112] a first resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the first wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of each of the first wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0113] a first actuator coupled to the first resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the first resistance mechanism;

[0114] a first structure coupled to and extending from the first housing, and the first structure has a third end;

[0115] a second structure pivotably coupled to the third end of the first structure, and the second structure has a fourth end;

[0116] a second housing coupled to the fourth end of the second structure;

[0117] second wheels coupled to the second housing, and the second wheels are independently rotatable about a second axis;

[0118] hand pedals configured to be engaged by a user, wherein each hand pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective second wheel, and the hand pedals are configured to facilitate rotation thereof;

[0119] a second resistance mechanism coupled to the second housing adjacent to the second wheels, and the second resistance mechanism is configured to resist rotation of the second wheels when the hand pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0120] a second actuator coupled to the second resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the second resistance mechanism; and

[0121] a control system coupled to and configured to control the first and second actuators, and the control system is configured to independently vary the resistance to each of the first and second wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the first and second wheels.

[0122] 14. The apparatus, wherein, when the user applies a force to the pedals and hand pedals, the control system maintains a constant rotational velocity of the first and second wheels.

[0123] 15. The apparatus, wherein the first wheels and the second wheels are mechanically interconnected for causing rotation of the first and second wheels.

[0124] 16. An apparatus for use by a user in exercise and rehabilitation, the apparatus comprising:

[0125] a base having first and second ends;

[0126] a first housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0127] first wheels coupled to the first housing and the first wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0128] pedals configured to be engaged by a user during use of the apparatus, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective first wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the first wheels;

[0129] a first resistance mechanism coupled to the first housing adjacent to the first wheels, and the resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of the first wheels when the pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0130] a first actuator coupled to the first resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the first resistance mechanism;

[0131] a first structure coupled to and extending upwardly from the first housing, and the first structure has a third end;

[0132] a second structure pivotably coupled to the third end of the first structure, and the second structure has a fourth end;

[0133] a second housing coupled to the fourth end of the second structure;

[0134] second wheels coupled to the second housing, and the second wheels are independently rotatable about a second axis;

[0135] hand pedals configured to be engaged by a user during use of the apparatus, wherein each hand pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective second wheel, and the hand pedals facilitate rotation of the second wheels when the hand pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0136] a second resistance mechanism coupled to the second housing adjacent to the second wheels, and the second resistance mechanism is configured to independently resist rotation of the second wheels when the hand pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0137] a second actuator coupled to the second resistance mechanism and configured to actuate the second resistance mechanism;

[0138] a first motor coupled to the first housing adjacent the first wheels, and the first motor is configured to releasably engage the first wheels to regulate rotation of the first wheels;

[0139] a second motor coupled to the second housing adjacent to the second wheels, and the second motor is configured to releasably engage and regulate rotation of the second wheels; and

[0140] a control system coupled to the motors and actuators and configured to control the motors and actuators, and the control system is configured to maintain select rotational velocities of each of the wheels, and configured to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0141] 17. An apparatus for use by a user in exercise and rehabilitation, the apparatus comprising:

[0142] a base having first and second ends;

[0143] a first housing coupled to the base and disposed adjacent to the first end;

[0144] first wheels coupled to the first housing and the first wheels are independently rotatable about a first axis;

[0145] pedals configured to be engaged by a user during use of the apparatus, wherein each pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective first wheel, and the pedals facilitate rotation of the first wheels;

[0146] a first structure coupled to and extending upwardly from the first housing, and the first structure has a third end;

[0147] a second structure pivotably coupled to the third end of the first structure, and the second structure has a fourth end;

[0148] a second housing coupled to the fourth end of the second structure;

[0149] second wheels coupled to the second housing, and the second wheels are independently rotatable about a second axis;

[0150] hand pedals configured to be engaged by a user during use of the apparatus, wherein each hand pedal is coupled to and extends from a respective second wheel, and the hand pedals facilitate rotation of the second wheels when the hand pedals are selectively engaged by the user;

[0151] a first motor coupled to the first housing adjacent the first wheels, and the first motor is configured to releasably engage the first wheels to regulate rotation of the first wheels;

[0152] a second motor coupled to the second housing adjacent to the second wheels, and the second motor is configured to releasably engage the second wheels to regulate rotation of the second wheels; and

[0153] a control system coupled to and configured to control the motors, and wherein the control system is configured to maintain select rotational velocities of the wheels, and configured to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0154] 18. A system for facilitating exercise and rehabilitation of a user, the system comprising:

[0155] a base;

[0156] wheels coupled to the base and the wheels independently rotate about a first axis;

[0157] pedals configured to be engaged by the user, wherein each pedal is coupled to a respective wheel to facilitate rotation of the respective wheels, when the user applies force to the respective pedals;

[0158] a resistance mechanism disposed adjacent the wheels, and the resistance mechanism configured to selectively resist rotation of the wheels;

[0159] an actuator coupled to the resistance mechanism for actuating the resistance mechanism; and

[0160] a control system coupled to the actuator for controlling the actuator to actuate the resistance mechanism and independently vary the resistance to the wheels, and to independently stop rotation of each of the wheels.

[0161] 19. A method for facilitating exercise of a user, the method comprising:

[0162] providing a cycling apparatus having independently rotatable wheels with pedals;

[0163] engaging and applying forces to the pedals;

[0164] sensing a rotational velocity of each of the wheels;

[0165] calculating a rotational velocity for each of the wheels; and

[0166] selectively and independently resisting rotation of the wheels to maintain the respective rotational velocity of each wheel.

[0167] The various aspects, embodiments, implementations or features of the described embodiments can be used separately or in any combination. The embodiments disclosed herein are modular in nature and can be used in conjunction with or coupled to other embodiments.

[0168] This disclosure is meant to be illustrative of the principles and various embodiments. Benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been described above with regard to specific embodiments. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems, and any feature(s) that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as a critical, required, sacrosanct or an essential feature of any or all the claims. Numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. It is intended that the following claims be interpreted to embrace all such variations and modifications.

[0169] Consistent with the above disclosure, the examples of assemblies enumerated in the following clauses are specifically contemplated and are intended as a non-limiting set of examples.