Cycling or motorcycling simulator for recreation and physical exercise

Abstract

The present invention discloses a cycling or motorcycling simulator for recreation and physical exercise characterized by allowing left, right, and backward movements and tilts that can be controlled with the handlebars or body thrust. Structurally, the device of the present invention is divided mainly into six parts interconnected to get the device to function optimally. Thus, the simulator consists of i) a base that supports the other systems of the invention, ii) a mounting base that allows coupling the lifting system, the lower coupling system, and the lateral tilt system, iii) a frame giving a bicycle-shaped structure to the simulator, iv) a lifting system, v) a lateral tilt system, and vi) a lower coupling system; wherein the said systems control the turns and the tilt of the simulator. Because the present invention allows a greater range and variety of movements, the monotony of the exercise is reduced, and the user can exercise a greater number of muscles.

Claims

1. A simulator for recreation and physical exercise that allows lateral and backward movements and inclinations, the simulator comprises: a. a base which supports the simulator and is formed by profiles coupled under a mounting base; b. the mounting base is arranged on the base and comprises one or more profiles, holes and openings that allow coupling of a lifting system, a central shaft, and a lateral tilting system, wherein the one or more profiles form an inclined box shape; c. the lifting system comprising a lifting profile attached to a rotating shaft and bushings or bearings positioned within supports or bearings located at ends of the rotating shaft; d. a frame comprising a handlebar and connecting profiles including a profile A and a profile B; e. a lower coupling system including the central shaft passing through lower ends of the profiles A and B, also including bushings or bearings allowing movement of the central shaft; and f. the lateral tilting system allows a user to turn the simulator to the left or right and comprises an upper flap attached toe a lower part of an orientation tube, a rotating tube having an upper lever and a lower lever attached perpendicularly at its ends, respectively, upper ball joints, or joint heads attached to the upper flap and to the upper lever of the rotating tube, and lower ball joints or joints heads coupled to a lower shaft or coupling anchored to the mounting base and to the lower lever of the rotating tube.

2. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the profiles of said base comprise two metal profiles parallel to each other that are joined perpendicularly at each end to two other metal profiles.

3. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the mounting base has on a rear face a lower cavity with a frame protruding from the mounting base for the coupling of the lifting system, a circular hole above the cavity to adjust the central shaft, and the mounting base includes on a front face a hole for adjusting of the central shaft.

4. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the profile A of the frame is coupled inside the mounting base and is anchored to the central shaft, wherein profile B is coupled to the central shaft outside the mounting base to a profile C.

5. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises pedals and a rear resistance element, wherein the rear resistance element is attached by chain or belt transmission to the pedals and generates resistance when pedaling.

6. The simulator of claim 5, wherein the rear resistance element comprises a flywheel, a disc, a roller, a wheel, gear wheels, or any combinations thereof.

7. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the frame comprises lateral shock absorbers chosen between springs or elastomers that are located on lower sides of the lower end of said profile A.

8. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the central shaft of the lower coupling system forms a fixed angle with respect to the base in a range of 25 to 45 degrees when the mounting base is positioned on the base without forming any angle of elevation, and wherein the fixed angle varies when the lifting system lifts the mounting base.

9. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the upper ball joints or joint heads of the lateral tilting system are fitted at one end to the upper flap and at another end to the upper lever of the rotating tube.

10. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the lower ball joints or joint heads of the lateral tilting system fit at one end into the lower lever of the rotating tube and at another end is coupled to the lower shaft.

11. The simulator in claim 1, wherein the lower ball joints or joint heads of the lateral tilting system fit at one end into the lower lever of the rotating tube, and at another end is coupled to the coupling anchored to the mounting base.

12. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the rotating tube of the lateral tilting system is located parallel to the profile A and is coupled to the profile A using upper and lower connecting pieces that are anchored to the profile A, in which said upper and lower connecting pieces have bushings or bearings.

13. The simulator of claim 1, further including control elements that enable the user to employ the simulator in a video game, wherein said control elements include at least one of a button box, brakes, a throttle handle, a steering control sensor, motion and tilt sensors, pedal sensor, or a braking motor.

14. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the mounting base has holes for attaching shock absorbers, and wherein the holes are located in a lower part of the mounting base and allow attaching the mounting base to the base for disabling or removing the lifting system.

15. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the handlebar is either fixed to the frame or fixed with the knob to the frame to prevent rotation of the handlebar if the lateral tilting system is removed.

16. The simulator of claim 1, wherein the lifting system includes a support structure attached to the base and arranged around the lifting profile.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

(1) For the present invention to be understood and put into practice, the attached figures, and a detailed description of embodiments of the invention are referenced as follows:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a front view of the simulator of the present invention.

(3) FIG. 2 depicts a rear view of the simulator of the present invention together with a detailed image of the mounting base (2).

(4) FIG. 3a shows the side views of the lifting system (3) of the simulator of the invention with and without elevation angle.

(5) FIG. 3b shows an exploded view of the lifting system (3), the mounting base (2), and part of the base (1).

(6) FIG. 4 discloses the arrangement of the lateral shock absorbers (9) in the simulator.

(7) FIG. 5 allows visualizing the bottom coupling system (5) and the possible pivoting elements constituting the bottom coupling system of the invention.

(8) FIG. 6a shows an exploded view of the lateral tilt system and views of the lower and upper elements of the lateral tilt system.

(9) FIG. 6b shows another possible arrangement of the lower elements of the lateral tilt system.

(10) FIG. 7 shows the possible movements that the simulator of the present invention offers to the user.

(11) FIG. 8 discloses possible configurations of the handle (11).

(12) FIG. 9 shows a preferred embodiment of the invention in which two brakes (22), an accelerator handle (33), and sensors are adapted to the simulator for playing video games.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

(13) In general terms, the invention depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 shows the six structural parts of the simulator. From the images, it is possible to locate structurally (i) the base (1) that supports all the systems of the invention, (ii) the mounting base (2), which is arranged on the base (1) and allows the coupling of the lifting system (3), the lower coupling system and the lateral tilt system (6), (iii) a lifting system (3), (iv) a frame (4) that gives the simulator a bicycle-shaped structure, (v) a lower coupling system that allows the union of two profiles (4a and 4b) for the proper inclination or rotation of the bicycle and (vi) a lateral inclination system (6) that the rotation of the bicycle with different degrees of freedom.

(14) Specifically, FIG. 2 shows the configuration of the mounting base (2). The mounting base (2) comprises a lower rectangular cavity (2a) for the coupling of the lifting system (3) and a circular hole above this cavity for the adjustment of the main shaft (5). On the front face of the rectangular cavity is located a lower hole of circular shape for the adjustment of the central axis (5). The front face of the rectangular cavity may also comprise a top opening for adjustment of the lateral tilt system. Thus, the mounting base (2) of the present invention is specially designed to couple the lifting system (3) the lower coupling system and the lateral tilt system (6) to rotate the simulator to the left or right while it is in a tilted position.

(15) In FIGS. 1 and 2, it is possible to observe the elements that compose the frame (4) or structural element of the simulator of the present invention. This frame is composed of two profiles (4a) (4b) that give the simulator a bicycle-like structure and allow the attachment of other structural components such as the handlebars (11), the rear resistance element (8), such as a flywheel, the pedals (7), the seat (10), lateral shock absorbers (9) and the braking mechanism (29).

(16) As for the structural elements of the frame (4), the pedals (7) interact with the rear resistance element (8), the lateral shock absorbers (9) are intended to stabilize the bicycle, the seat (10) can be adjusted to the user's build. The brake mechanism (29) can be mechanical, magnetic, or by electromagnetic induction. The handlebar (11) can control the tilting or turning movements of the bicycle if the orientation tube (14) is connected to the lateral tilt system (6) through the upper flap (13).

(17) From FIGS. 1 and 2, it is also evident that both profiles (4a) (4b) are anchored to the main axis (5) of the simulator. However, while profile A is positioned inside the mounting base (2), profile B is anchored outside the mounting base (2). The fastening between the profiles (4a) (4b) and the main shaft (5) can be done using wedges, grub screws, or other fastening elements.

(18) FIGS. 3a and 3b show the structural elements that make up the simulator's lifting system. Innovatively, the lifting system of the invention is triggered when the user pushes its body backward; this shifts the machine's center of gravity so that it is possible to lift it (FIG. 3a) and perform acrobatics.

(19) From FIGS. 1, 3a, and 3b, it is possible to evidence that the lifting system (3) contains a lifting profile (3a) attached to a rotating shaft (3b), bushings or bearings (3c) with supports or bearings (3g), or any element that allows rotation. These elements are positioned at the ends of the rotating shaft (3b) fixed or screwed to the holes (1b) of the base (1). In addition, the simulator may consist of a group of lower shock absorbers (3d) located under the mounting base (2) to cushion or soften the fall after simulating that the bicycle is raised on the rear tire (called wheelie). Also, the lifting system (3) can have a support structure (3e) which is attached to the holes (1c) of the base (1) preferably by screws and positioned around the lifting profile (3a). The support (3e) may have a knob (3f) for graduating the angle and the maximum lifting height of the lifting system (3).

(20) It is worth noting that the lifting system (3) of the invention can be removable depending on each user's particular needs and requirements. In this way, the lifting system (3) can be fixed or disabled by coupling/decoupling the lower holes (2b) with the holes (1a) of the base using screws.

(21) In FIG. 3a, it is possible to evidence two embodiments of the invention. In the first case, the main shaft (5) has a mounting inclination that forms an angle (B) in relation to the base (1) of 25 to 45 degrees. In consequence, this occurs when the mounting base (2) is positioned on the base (1) with no elevation angle. In the second case, when the lifting system (3) is raised, and an elevation angle is formed between the mounting base (2) and the base (1), the angle (B) of the main shaft (5) varies depending on the force applied by the user.

(22) FIG. 3b shows an exploded view of the lifting system (3), where the lower shock absorber group (3d) may have some form of polymer or springs, fixed or screwed to the lower holes (2b) of the mounting base (2). Moreover, the lower holes (2b) can also be used to screw the mounting base (2) to the holes (1a) of the base (1) to fix or disable the lifting system (3).

(23) In FIG. 4, it is possible to see that the shock absorbers (9) are located on the lower sides of profile A (4a) inside the mounting base (2). They are held by screws that go through the holes (9a) and end up screwed to the mounting base (2). From FIG. 4, it is also possible to observe that profile A (4a) can optionally have a groove (9b) through which a coupling screw can also pass. The shock absorbers (9) can be springs or elastomers, and they can help manipulate the simulator. However, they are unnecessary when the simulator is controlled by the handlebar (11) and the tilt system (6). On the contrary, if the tilt system (6) is disabled, the lateral shock absorbers (9) are necessary as the user will tilt the bicycle by pushing its body sideways. The shock absorbers will help the user to return to a centered position.

(24) FIG. 5 shows the lower coupling system of the simulator of the invention. The function of this system is to join profile A (4a) with profile B (4b) and includes the main axis (5) that crosses the lower ends of both profiles.

(25) The main shaft (5) that constitutes the lower coupling system rotates on any element that allows the main shaft (5) to rotate. That element can include either supports (12) anchored by screws to the base (2) or bushings or bearings (17) located within a support structure (19) anchored to the base (2). The main shaft pivot (5) allows the bicycle to tilt or turn to the left or right when the user turns the handlebars (11) or applies some force by pushing its body.

(26) FIG. 6a discloses the technical elements comprising the lateral tilt system (6). This system allows the user to turn the bicycle to the left or right with the handlebars (11) with different degrees of freedom. It is also possible to see that the lateral tilt system comprises as fundamental parts an upper flap (13), two ball joints (6a) and (6b) attached to the upper part, two ball joints (6f) and (6g) attached to the lower part, a rotating tube (6d) with a lever (6c) welded on its upper part, and a lever shaft (6e) welded on its lower part, and a shaft (15) fixed to the mounting base (2). The rotating tube (6d) is joined to the profile (4a) using parts (16a) and (16b). These parts can have at the junction with the rotating tube (6d) bushings or some element that reduces wear.

(27) Functionally, when a turn occurs in the handlebar, a response is generated by the lateral tilt system that allows the movement of the simulator. In that way, when the user turns the handlebar (11), the orientation tube (14) is rotated, and the upper flap (13) is displaced to transfer this movement to the part formed by the ball joints (6a) and (6b). In doing so, the ball joint (6b) pushes the upper lever (6c), which is part of the tube (6d), causing the rotating tube (6d) to rotate on its axis in the opposite direction the handle (11) is turned. Thus, the rotating tube (6d) will rotate to the right if the handle is turned to the left. When the tube (6d) rotates, it also moves laterally the lower lever shaft (6e), which is fixed to it. Then, the lower lever shaft (6e) pulls or pushes the piece formed by the union of the two ball joints (6f) and (6g). In this way, the ball joint (6g) fixed to the shaft (15), which is anchored to the mounting base (2), has no possibility of movement producing a reaction force that forces the profile (4a) connected to the upper (16a) and lower (16b) connecting pieces to move on the main axis (5). Hence, causing the simulator frame (4) to tilt and turn to the right or left. Consequently, turning the handle (11) to the left will cause the simulator to tilt and turn to the left. Likewise, turning the handle (11) to the right will cause the simulator to tilt and turn to the right.

(28) FIG. 6b shows another preferred form of the invention. In this case, the lower lever shaft (6e) can have the shape of the lever (18a) and can be coupled to the ball joint (18b) using a shaft or screw. In that way, the shaft (15) can have the shape of the part (18d) and be coupled to the ball joint (18c) using a shaft or screw. Finally, the ball joints or joint heads (18b) and (18c) can be one piece or be joined by a screw.

(29) It is worth noting that the simulator's turning angles and lateral tilt will depend on the length between the ball joints and the distances from the ball joints to the axes of rotation of each tube, both at the top and at the bottom. Thus, varying any of these distances also changes the lateral tilt angle.

(30) FIG. 7 shows the possible movements that can be achieved with the cycling simulator of the present invention. Thus, when the user turns the handlebar (11), pushes, or pulls the frame (4) to the right or left, the system can simulate the tilt and turn movements to the right or left. In the same way, the user, by pushing its body backward or jumping and pulling the handlebars towards its body, produces the lifting of the front part of the bicycle while producing or maintaining such lifting. The user can also tilt the simulator to the right or left. Likewise, the simulator allows the user to remain in a neutral position if it wishes to perform the activity without significant effort, turns, or tilts.

(31) In another relevant aspect of the invention, the handlebar (11) of the simulator can comprise different configurations according to the user's personal preference. The first handlebar shown in FIG. 8 consists of a conventional configuration that gives the user the feeling of riding an actual bicycle or motorcycle. For its part, the configuration of the second handlebar, also disclosed in FIG. 8, allows the user to unload its weight when exercising, as occurs with a conventional exercise bike.

(32) The simulator of the present invention can be used to play video games. So, while the frame (4) and the simulator systems can be fitted with sensors, it is possible to locate controls on the handlebars (11) that provide information to a computer via a control card. In this way, the user experiences more realistic sensations when playing video games.

(33) In FIG. 8, it is possible to observe that the handlebar can have different button boxes (21) for video game control.

(34) FIG. 9 shows another preferred embodiment of the invention in which two brakes (22) are adapted at both ends of the handlebar (11), and an accelerator handle (33) is coupled at one end. These brakes and throttle handles are characterized by sensors that simulate braking in a bicycle video game or clutch and acceleration in a motorcycle game. To give a realistic feel to the game, the brakes (22) may have housings similar to conventional bicycle brakes, just as the throttle handle can be that of a conventional motorcycle.

(35) FIG. 9 also shows some possible sensors and locations that allow the simulator of the invention to play video games on some device that displays the video images, such as a screen, a cellphone, a virtual reality headset, etc. Thus, the steering control sensor (24) may include a potentiometer with geared wheels, and these are attached to the handlebars. In that way, when the user turns the handlebars (11), the gear wheel of the handlebars turns that of the potentiometer signaling video game to make a turn. Another sensor (25) can indicate when the mounting base (2) separates from the base (1) to interpret a jump in the video game. It is also possible to include a lifting sensor (26), which can be located on the adjustment bracket (3e) or the rotating shaft (3b) that sends signals to the time videogame to keep the simulator lifted backward. It is possible to add pedaling sensors (27) to send different signals depending on whether the user pedals forward or backward. A multiplicity of sensors not shown in FIG. 9 can be arranged to send signals to the video game when the simulator is at full left or right tilt.

(36) Accessory transport elements in FIG. 9 also disclose possible handles (31) and transport wheels (32). Both accessories allow easy transport of the simulator. At the same time, the handles (31) are connected to the base (1) and allow the simulator to be lifted. The transport wheels (32) allow the invention to be moved without the need to lift it.

(37) The embodiments of the invention described here do not limit the invention to any embodiment or collection of specific features throughout the specification. It should be noted by people skilled in the art that various modifications and changes can be made to particular exemplified embodiments without diverging from the scope and intent of the present invention.