Exercising apparatus movably supported

Abstract

An exercise machine is disclosed which is movably supported. An exercise machine having a movable support which is movable in an axial direction and simultaneously movable in a lateral direction, such as about a tilt axis, can be a bicycle mounted on a base. Rollers and track means can be provided between the bicycle and the base to effect axial and tilt movement of the bicycle relative to the base. The rollers and track means can be one or more curved surface rollers and track interfaces which extend in the axial direction and effect a bias of the platform toward an axial mid-position under the influence of gravity. The bicycle and base include tilt biasing means for biasing the bicycle toward a tilt mid-position relative to the base.

Description

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Application 15 / 999,259, which claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 546,728, filed August 17, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Application 62 / 637,003, filed March 1, 2018, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference. TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present application relates to a movable supported exercise equipment, and in particular, to an exercise bicycle. BACKGROUND

[0004] Various types of indoor exercise equipment are designed to mimic or simulate exercise activities that are typically performed in an outdoor environment. For example, a stationary treadmill allows a user to walk or run indoors rather than outdoors. Similarly, a stationary bicycle allows a user to experience cycling indoors rather than outdoors. As one example of the latter, a conventional bicycle can be mounted to an indoor bicycle trainer, which allows a user to convert a bicycle that is typically used outdoors for use in an indoor environment.

[0005] While the actual outdoor conditions cannot be precisely replicated when exercising using exercise equipment in an indoor environment, the exercise equipment can be configured or controlled to simulate outdoor conditions. For example, in the case of a treadmill, the incline of the treadmill belt can be adjusted to simulate uphill or downhill running or walking. Stationary bicycles and bicycle trainers are typically arranged upright and horizontally, and are designed to include features that allow the stationary bicycle or the combination of the bicycle and the trainer to tilt left and right and to adjust the angle of the incline up or down. SUMMARY

[0006] It is an object of the present application to enable a user to more realistically experience a sport that occurs in an outdoor environment when using exercise equipment in an indoor environment. It is another object of the present application to enable exercise equipment to move in different directions or in different planes to enhance the user's experience when using the exercise equipment. It is another object of the present application to provide a support system for exercise equipment that allows the exercise equipment to move in different directions to enhance the user's experience, and that can be incorporated into the exercise equipment during original manufacture or that can be used with existing exercise equipment.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the application, an exercise machine includes a frame configured to support a user, a user input device movably mounted to the frame to enable the user to apply an input force to the frame during exercise, and a support device engaged with the frame. The support device supports the frame above a support surface and is configured to move the frame fore and aft along a longitudinal axis in response to the input force applied to the frame by the user. The support device can also be configured to tilt the frame about a tilt axis extending primarily in the fore and aft direction. In one embodiment, the frame and the movable input device can be in the form of a bicycle-type device.

[0008] A mid-position biasing device can be provided to bias the frame towards a fore and aft mid-position and a tilt mid-position. The mid-position biasing device can include a first biasing device for biasing the frame towards the fore and aft mid-position and a second biasing device for biasing the frame towards the tilt mid-position.

[0009] The frame can be engaged with the support device by engagement of a pair of rollers with a pair of support members, the support members and rollers cooperating to effect fore and aft movement of the frame relative to the support device. In one version, the pair of support members are interconnected with the frame and the pair of rollers are interconnected with the support device. Each roller can be in the form of a grooved roller and relative axial fore and aft movement between the support members and the grooved rollers results in movement of the frame in the fore and aft direction and relative pivotal movement between the support members and the grooved rollers results in tilting movement of the frame about the tilt axis.

[0010] The pair of support members can be in the form of a front support member disposed towards a front end defined by the frame and a rear support member disposed towards a rear end defined by the frame. The rear support member can be located at a lower height relative to the support surface than the front support member to provide a closer to road-like feel when operating the bicycle.

[0011] The first biasing device can be in the form of an arcuate formation of the support members which effects biasing of the frame towards the fore and aft mid-position under the influence of gravity.

[0012] The support device can be in the form of a base, and the second biasing device includes a tilt mid-biasing device interconnected between the base and the frame that applies opposing laterally directed biasing forces to the frame that urge the frame toward a tilt mid-position. The base can include a pair of laterally spaced-apart support posts, and the tilt mid-biasing device can include a centering guide member interconnected with the frame and positioned between the pair of support posts. A pair of flexible elongate biasing members are interconnected with the centering guide member and with biasing devices associated with each of the support posts and extend in laterally opposite directions from the centering guide member. Each of the flexible elongate biasing members is interconnected with one of the biasing devices such that the biasing forces applied by the biasing devices bias the centering guide member toward a mid-position corresponding to the tilt mid-position of the frame. In one form, the centering guide member defines an axially extending internal passage, and the flexible elongate biasing members are interconnected with a reciprocating assembly that is movable within the internal passage of the centering guide member to accommodate fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base. Each of the biasing devices can be in the form of one or more springs interconnected between one of the support posts and one of the flexible elongate biasing members.

[0013] According to another aspect, an exercise bicycle includes a base configured to be disposed on a support surface, a frame configured to support a user and including a pedal-type user force input device, and a movable support device interposed between the base and the frame for effecting movement of the frame relative to the base during use. The movable support device is configured to effect axial fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base and left-right tilt movement of the frame relative to the base. An axial centering device is disposed between the base and the frame to bias the frame toward an axial fore-aft center position, and a tilt centering device is disposed between the base and the frame to bias the frame toward a tilt center position. The movable support device includes a pair of axially spaced-apart support members engaged with a pair of axially spaced-apart rollers, and relative axial movement between the support members and the rollers results in axial fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base. Relative pivotal movement between the support members and the rollers results in left-right tilt movement of the frame relative to the base. Each of the support members can have an arcuate configuration that effects biasing of the frame relative to the base in the axial fore-aft direction under the influence of gravity. The left-right tilt movement of the frame relative to the base occurs about a front tilt axis and a rear tilt axis. The front tilt axis can be located at a height relative to the support surface that is higher than the rear tilt axis. The tilt centering device is configured to apply opposing direction lateral forces on the frame at locations below the front tilt axis and below the rear tilt axis that tend to urge the frame toward the tilt center position.

[0014] Other aspects, features, and advantages of the present application will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, upon reading the following detailed description of the application and inspecting the accompanying drawings. It should be understood, however, that the detailed description and specific examples, while indicating certain embodiments of the application, are given by way of illustration and example only. Many changes and modifications within the scope of the application can be made and will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the detailed description of the application and inspecting the accompanying drawings. The application encompasses all such modifications and changes and falls within the scope of the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] A clear conception of the advantages and features of the present application, and the construction and operation of typical mechanisms provided by the present application, will become more readily apparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting, embodiments of the present application illustrated in the drawings, wherein like reference numerals can indicate similar elements throughout the several views of the drawings and wherein:

[0016] Figure 1 is an isometric view of one embodiment of the present application for a movable support for exercise equipment in the form of a bicycle mounted to a bicycle trainer;

[0017] Figure 2 is a side elevational view of the movable exercise equipment support of Figure 1 in combination with a bicycle and trainer;

[0018] Figure 3 is a similar view to Figure 2 showing the movable exercise equipment support without the combination of a bicycle and trainer;

[0019] Figure 4 is an end elevational view of the movable exercise equipment support of Figures 1-3 showing tilting movement of the support in a first direction;

[0020] Figure 5 is an end elevational view of the movable exercise equipment support of Figures 1-4 showing tilting movement of the support in a second direction opposite the first direction;

[0021] Figure 6 is a bottom plan view of the movable exercise equipment support of Figures 1-5 ; and

[0022] Figure 7 is a top plan view of the movable exercise equipment support of Figures 1-6 ; and

[0023] Figure 8 is an isometric view of a base and frame forming part of the movable exercise equipment support of Figures 1-7 ; and

[0024] Figure 9 isFigure 8 Side elevation view of the base and frame of the portable exercise equipment support;

[0025] Figure 10 It is a with Figure 9 A similar view shows the axial or back-and-forth movement of the frame relative to the base in a first direction;

[0026] Figure 11 It is a with Figure 9 and Figure 10 A similar view shows the frame moving axially or back and forth relative to the base in a second direction opposite to the first direction;

[0027] Figure 12 yes Figure 8 Top view of the base and frame of the portable exercise equipment stand;

[0028] Figure 13 yes Figures 1-7 An isometric view of the lower side of the portable exercise equipment stand;

[0029] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 An enlarged partial isometric view of the portion indicated by lines 14-14;

[0030] Figure 15 and Figure 16 They are respectively with Figure 9 and Figure 10 A similar view shows the base and frame portion of the movable exercise equipment stand, where the platform portion of the movable exercise equipment stand has been removed;

[0031] Figure 17 It is along Figure 14 A partial cross-sectional view taken from line 17-17;

[0032] Figure 18 Therefore Figure 8 The side elevation view, partially sectioned using line 18-18 as the reference, shows the integration with... Figures 1-8 An embodiment of the biasing device in a portable exercise equipment support;

[0033] Figure 19 This is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention, showing the movable exercise equipment support in a working usage mode;

[0034] Figure 20 yes Figure 19 End elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support frame;

[0035] Figure 21 It is along Figure 20A longitudinal cross-sectional view taken from line 21-21;

[0036] Figure 22 It is a with Figure 18 Similar partial cross-sectional views show the integration with Figure 19 The tilting and offset device in the portable exercise equipment frame;

[0037] Figure 23 yes Figures 19-22 An isometric view of the movable exercise equipment stand, showing the movable exercise equipment stand in a non-working folded state;

[0038] Figure 24 yes Figures 19-23 Side elevation view of a foldable, movable exercise equipment stand;

[0039] Figure 24a Is with Figures 19-25 The illustrated embodiment is an isometric view of one embodiment of a movable exercise equipment stand similar to the one shown, illustrating a bicycle and a trainer placed on the exercise equipment stand.

[0040] Figure 24b yes Figure 24a Side elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support frame;

[0041] Figure 24c yes Figure 24a Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the portable exercise equipment support;

[0042] Figure 24d It is shown Figure 24a A partial isometric view of a portion of a portable exercise equipment support and the connecting mechanism incorporated therein, wherein the connecting mechanism is shown in a retracted or non-working position.

[0043] Figure 24e It is a with Figure 24d A similar view shows the connecting mechanism in its extended or working position;

[0044] Figure 24f It is along Figure 24d A partial cross-sectional view taken from line 24f-24f;

[0045] Figure 24g It is along Figure 24e A partial cross-sectional view taken from the 24g-24g line;

[0046] Figure 24h It is combined with Figures 24d-24g Isometric view of the movable connecting component in the connecting mechanism;

[0047] Figure 24i It is along Figure 24hA cross-sectional view of the 24i-24i line;

[0048] Figure 24j This is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention;

[0049] Figure 24k yes Figure 24j Front elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support frame;

[0050] Figure 24l yes Figure 24j Side elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support frame;

[0051] Figure 24m yes Figure 24j Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the portable exercise equipment support;

[0052] Figure 25 This is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 26 It is shown Figure 25 A partial isometric view of the rear of a portable exercise equipment stand;

[0054] Figure 27 It is along Figure 26 A cross-sectional view taken from line 27-27;

[0055] Figure 28 It is along Figure 26 A partial cross-sectional view taken from line 28-28;

[0056] Figure 29 This is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention;

[0057] Figure 30 yes Figure 29 Rear elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support;

[0058] Figure 31 It is a with Figure 26 A similar view shows an alternative embodiment for achieving movement of the exercise equipment around an inclined axis;

[0059] Figure 28 It is a with Figure 26 and 31 A similar view shows Figure 29 The tilting motion of the exercise equipment in the embodiment;

[0060] Figures 29-31 This is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention;

[0061] Figure 33 is an exploded isometric view showing components of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0062] Figure 34 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0063] Figure 35 is a top plan view of the movable exercise equipment stand of Figure 36

[0064] Figure 35 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0065] Figure 37 is a view similar to Figure 38 showing a bicycle and trainer secured to the movable exercise equipment stand;

[0066] Figure 37 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0067] Figure 39 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0068] Figure 40 is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application;

[0069] Figure 41 is a front elevational view of the movable exercise equipment stand of Figure 42

[0070] Figure 41 is a side elevational view of the movable exercise equipment stand of Figure 43 and 42

[0071] is an isometric view of another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application; Figure 41

[0072] is a side elevational view of the movable exercise equipment stand of Figure 44 Figure 45

[0073] Figure 44 is a top plan view of the movable exercise equipment stand of Figure 46 and 45

[0074] Figure 44 is an isometric view of an exercise equipment in the form of a stationary bicycle incorporating the movable stand of the present application;

[0075] ​​​​​Figure 47 is a rear elevation view of the exercise machine of Figure 48

[0076] Figure 47 is a side elevation view of the exercise machine of Figure 49 and 48

[0077] Figure 47 is an isometric view of a bicycle trainer incorporating the movable support of the present invention;

[0078] Figure 50 is a rear elevation view of the bicycle trainer of Figure 51

[0079] Figure 50 is a side elevation view of the bicycle trainer of Figure 52 and 51

[0080] Figure 50 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the movable exercise machine support of the present invention;

[0081] Figure 53 is an isometric view of the movable exercise machine support of Figure 54

[0082] Figure 53 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 55-55 of Figure 55

[0083] Figure 53 is a view similar to Figure 56 showing the tilting movement of the movable exercise machine support;

[0084] Figure 55 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 57-57 of Figure 57

[0085] Figure 55 is an isometric view of a stationary bicycle incorporating the movable support of the present invention;

[0086] Figure 58 is a side elevation view, partially broken away, of the movable exercise machine support of Figure 59 and a stationary bicycle;

[0087] Figure 58 is a front elevation view of the movable exercise machine support of Figure 60 and a stationary bicycle; 59

[0088] Figure 58 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 61-61 of Figure 61 ​​​​​​​​​

[0089] Figure 60 yes Figure 62 Isometric view of a partial section of a portable exercise equipment stand and a stationary bicycle;

[0090] Figure 59 yes Figure 63 Enlarged partial side view elevation of a partially sectional section of a portable exercise equipment stand and a stationary bicycle;

[0091] Figure 58 yes Figure 64 A partial front cross-sectional view of a portable exercise equipment stand and a stationary bicycle;

[0092] Figure 60 yes Figure 65 Partial rear elevation view of the portable exercise equipment support and stationary bicycle;

[0093] Figure 58 It is by Figure 66 A magnified isometric view of the portion represented by line 66-66;

[0094] Figure 61 It is by Figure 67 A magnified isometric view of the portion represented by line 67-67;

[0095] Figure 61 It is by Figure 68 A magnified isometric view of the portion represented by line 68-68;

[0096] Figure 61 It is along Figure 69 A cross-sectional view taken from line 69-69;

[0097] Figure 68 yes Figure 70 A magnified left-side isometric view of the centered mechanism component;

[0098] Figures 68-69 yes Figure 71 A magnified right-side isometric view of the centered mechanism component;

[0099] Figures 68-70 yes Figure 72 A side elevation view of a portable exercise equipment stand and a stationary bicycle, showing the movement of the stand in the forward direction;

[0100] Figures 58-60 yes Figure 73 The side elevation view of the movable exercise equipment stand and stationary bicycle of 72 shows the movement of the stand in the rearward direction;

[0101] Figures 58-60 yes Figure 74front elevation view of the movable exercise equipment support and stationary bicycle of Figs. 72-73, showing tilting movement of the support in a first direction;

[0102] Figures 58-60 is Figure 75 front elevation view of the movable exercise equipment support and stationary bicycle of Figs. 72-74, showing tilting movement of the support in a second direction.

[0103] In describing embodiments of the application illustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be used. However, this is for the purpose of clarity and is not meant to limit the application to the specific terminology used. It is understood that each specific term includes all technical equivalents that operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. For example, the words "connected," "attached," or similar terms are often used. They are not limited to direct connection or attachment, but include connection or attachment through other elements that are considered to be equivalent by those skilled in the art. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0104] The various features and advantageous details of the subject matter disclosed herein are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments described in connection with the accompanying drawings.

[0105] Reference is made to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference characters refer to like parts throughout the several views. A first embodiment of a movable exercise equipment support of the present application is generally indicated by reference numeral 100 in Figures 58-60 In this embodiment, the movable exercise equipment support 100 is separate from, but adapted to support, an exercise equipment. In the illustrated embodiment, the exercise equipment is in the form of a bicycle B engaged with a bicycle trainer T. The bicycle trainer T is shown as a relatively conventional trainer that engages with the rear wheel of the bicycle B and provides resistance as a user applies input force to the pedals of the bicycle B in a known manner. This type of trainer is common, for example, the CycleOps brand trainers produced by Saris Cycling Group, Inc. of Madison, Wisconsin, USA. However, it is understood that any other type of bicycle trainer can be employed, for example, a direct drive trainer. It is also understood that the exercise equipment supported by the movable exercise equipment support 100 is not limited to a bicycle and trainer combination, but any type of stationary exercise equipment on which a user applies repetitive or cyclical force during operation can be employed.

[0106] The movable exercise equipment support 100 generally includes a base 102 adapted to be placed on a support surface, such as a floor. A bicycle B and a trainer T are placed on an upwardly facing surface defined by a platform 104. The platform 104 is fixed to a frame 106, and the frame 106 is movably mounted to the base 102 in a manner to be described hereinafter. The frame 106 is movable relative to the base 102 in response to input forces applied by a user to pedals of the bicycle B during use, as will also be described hereinafter. In a first direction of movement, as shown in Figures 1-18 and 5 the platform 104 and the frame 106 are movable in clockwise and counterclockwise directions about a longitudinal tilt axis, which enables the bicycle B, the trainer T, and the user to move side-to-side in response to input forces applied by the user to the pedals of the bicycle B.

[0107] As shown in Figure 4 and Figure 6 the base 102 can be formed of tubular metal members secured together in a generally rectangular configuration, although other satisfactory materials and configurations can be employed. In the illustrated embodiment, the base 102 includes a pair of side members 108a, 108b and a pair of end members 110a, 110b. A bracket 112a is mounted to the end member 110a, and a bracket 112b is mounted to the end member 110b. The bracket 112a rotatably supports a grooved roller 114a, and the bracket 112b rotatably supports a grooved roller 114b.

[0108] A step 116 is secured to one of the side members 108a, 108b of the base. In the illustrated embodiment, the step 116 includes a post 118 secured at a lower end to the side member 108b of the base, and a generally horizontal step member 120 secured to an upper end of the post 118. The step 116 is securely fixed to the base 102 and is adapted to support the weight of a user above the platform 104 when the user is mounting and dismounting the bicycle B.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 106 includes a longitudinal frame member 122 that is disposed on the base 102 and extends to a position beyond the ends of the base 102. A series of platform mounting members are positioned above and secured to the longitudinal frame member 122. Typically, the platform mounting members can include a front transverse platform mounting member 124, a middle transverse platform mounting member 126, and a rear transverse platform mounting member 128. A rear sub-frame including a pair of side sub-frame members 130a, 130b and an end sub-frame member 132 is secured to and extends rearwardly from the rear transverse platform mounting member 128. A pair of tilt biasing bracket assemblies 134a, 134b are pivotally mounted to the side sub-frame members 130a, 130b, the construction and operation of which will be described hereinafter.

[0110] The platform 104 overlies and is secured to the platform mounting members 124, 126, 128, 130a, 130b, and 132 of the frame 106. The platform 104 can have a generally planar configuration defining an upwardly facing top surface on which the bicycle B and trainer T can be positioned. As desired, the platform 104 can include a series of holes or apertures that can receive fasteners, straps, or the like that can be used to secure the bicycle B and trainer T in place. Suitable fasteners are adapted to extend through openings in the platform mounting members 124, 126, 128, 130a, 130b, and 132 and engage the platform 104 to secure the platform 104 to the frame 106. The platform 104 can have any desired configuration, in the illustrated embodiment, the platform 104 has a wider rear region to accommodate the trainer T and a narrower front region on which the front wheel of the bicycle B is positioned.

[0111] The longitudinal frame member 122 is provided with a rear engagement region 136a and a front engagement region 136b. The rear and front engagement regions 136a, 136b rest on and are supported by the rear and front belt groove pulleys 114a, 114b, respectively, to permit the frame 106 and platform 104, and the bicycle B and trainer T supported thereon, to move in an axial or fore-aft direction relative to the base 102 in response to input forces applied to the pedals of the bicycle B by a user. The rear and front engagement regions 136a, 136b are identical in construction and have an arcuate configuration that accommodates upward and downward movement of the frame 106 as the frame 106 moves in the axial or fore-aft direction relative to the base 102. In this regard, as illustrated, the frame 106 is biased toward the axial mid-position under the influence of gravity due to the arcuate configuration of the engagement regions 136a, 136b. The frame 106 can react to forces experienced by the platform 104 and frame 106 in response to input forces applied to the pedals of the bicycle B by a user, and thus can move rearwardly and upwardly relative to the base 102, as illustrated. Figure 8 Figure 9 ​As shown, it can move forward and upward relative to the base 102, as... Figure 10 As shown. Semicircular retaining brackets 138a and 138b are fixed to the rear end member 110a and the front end member 110b, respectively, and extend in the rear end region and the front end region of the longitudinal frame member 122, respectively. The retaining brackets 138a and 138b are used to restrict the upward movement of the longitudinal frame member 122 relative to the base 102 to ensure that the rear engagement region 136a and the front engagement region 136b remain engaged with the rear grooved roller 114a and the front grooved roller 114b, respectively.

[0112] As mentioned above, the rear joining region 136a and the front joining region 136b have the same structure. The following will refer to... Figure 11 The details of the rear engagement region 136a are described; it should be understood that this description also applies to the details of the front engagement region 136b. In the illustrated embodiment, as... Figure 14 As detailed, the post-engagement region 136a includes a downwardly facing track member 140a fixed to the longitudinal frame member 122. In the illustrated embodiment, the track member 140a has an arcuate configuration and engages within a correspondingly shaped cutout region of the longitudinal frame member 122. Typically, the longitudinal frame member 122 may be formed of a tubular member having a generally circular cross-section, and the walls of the tubular member may be cut to form a recess for receiving the arcuate track member 140a. Both the longitudinal frame member 122 and the track member 140a may be formed of metallic material, and the track member 140a may be fixed within the recess of the longitudinal frame member 122 by welding. However, it should be understood that the longitudinal frame member 122 and the track member 140a may be formed of any desired material, and the track member 140a may be fixed to the longitudinal frame member 122 in any desired manner.

[0113] Track member 140a includes a pair of side regions 142, 144 and a central rib region 146 located between the side regions 142, 144. Typically, the side regions 142, 144 may have relatively flat cross-sections, while the central rib region 146 may have a convex or outwardly curved structure. This structure... Figure 14 As shown in the figure, Figure 17 The central rib region 146 is shown to have a generally semi-circular structure.

[0114] Figure 17 The grooved roller 114a and its engagement with the semi-circular central rib region 146 of the track member 140a are also shown. Figure 17As shown, the grooved roller 114a is positioned between a pair of upright members defined by the carriage 112a and is rotatable about a shaft that extends between and is secured to the upright members of the carriage 112a. The grooved roller 114a includes a pair of roller bearing assemblies 150 through which the shaft 148 extends and which engage a housing portion 152 of the grooved roller 114a that defines a groove 154. The groove 154 has a radius that is slightly larger than the radius of the central bead region 146 of the track member 140a, such that the central bead region 146 nests within the groove 154. The engagement of the central bead region 146 within the groove 154 provides a dual function, i.e., allows axial movement of the track member 140a as the grooved roller 114a rotates, thereby allowing axial movement of the longitudinal frame member 122 relative to the base 102, while allowing the longitudinal frame member 122 to pivot relative to the grooved roller 114a. It should be understood that axial movement of the track member 140a on the grooved roller 114a effects axial or fore-aft movement of the platform 104 relative to the base 102, and pivotal movement of the central bead region 146 of the track member 140a within the groove 154 of the grooved roller 114a effects tilting movement of the frame member 122, and thus tilting movement of the platform 104 relative to the base 102. The engagement of the central bead region 146 within the groove 154 also functions to limit lateral or side-to-side movement of the track 140a relative to the roller 114a, which ensures the lateral or side-to-side position of the longitudinal frame member 122, and thus the frame 106 and platform 104 relative to the base 102.

[0115] Figure 17 The tilt bias carriage assembly 134b is shown, which, along with the tilt bias carriage assembly 134a, functions to bias the frame 106, and thus the platform 104, to a mid-tilt position. The following description of the tilt bias carriage assembly 134b applies equally to the tilt bias carriage assembly 134a.

[0116] As Figure 18As shown, the tilt bias carriage assembly 134b includes a carriage member 160 that is pivotally secured at its upper end to the side sub-frame member 130b by a pin 162. A wheel or roller 164 is rotatably mounted to the lower end of the carriage member 160 and rests on the upwardly facing surface of the frame side member 108b. A biasing member is engaged with the carriage member 160 to bias the carriage member 160 downwardly toward the frame side member 108b. The biasing member can be in the form of a torsion spring, a compression spring or any other satisfactory mechanism or device for exerting a downward biasing force on the carriage member 108b. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring is in the form of a foam block 165 that is shown in a compressed state exerting an upward biasing force on the side frame member 130b and a downward biasing force on the roller 164 to cause the roller 164 to rest against the side frame member 108b. In this manner, the roller 164 is biased against the upwardly facing surface of the frame side member 108b.

[0117] A threaded sleeve 166 is secured to the side sub-frame member 130b and an adjustment screw 168 is threadably engaged with the sleeve 166. The adjustment screw 168 has a head at its upper end that is accessible through an opening in the platform 104 and the lower end of the adjustment screw 168 abuts a pre-loaded carriage indicated by reference numeral 170. Rotation of the adjustment screw 168 is used to adjust the rotational position of the frame 106 and the platform 104 relative to the base 102. In this manner, the adjustment screw 168 of the tilt bias carriage assembly 134a, 134b can be selectively rotated to place the platform 104 in a horizontal orientation.

[0118] In use, the movable exercise platform 104 and frame 106 of the equipment stand 100 move in an axial fore-aft direction and tilt left and right during use of the bicycle by a user to provide a more realistic world experience to the user. In this regard, when the forces applied to the pedals of the bicycle B are unbalanced, i.e., when the platform 104 is subjected to a net downward force on one side of the bicycle B at any point in time, the platform 104 tilts in the direction of the downward force by pivotal movement of the central rib region (e.g., 146) of the track member (e.g., 140) within the groove (e.g., 154) of the roller 114a, 114b. At the same time, when the forces applied to the pedals of the bicycle B result in a horizontal axial force being transmitted to the platform 104, the platform 104 moves forward or rearward in the axial or fore-aft direction by axial movement of the track member (e.g., 140a) on the grooved roller (e.g., 114a). The arcuate configuration of the track member (e.g., 140a) of the engagement regions 136a, 136b effects a bias of the platform 104 under the influence of gravity toward the axial mid-position, at which the rollers 114a, 114b are respectively located within the uppermost central portion of the engagement regions 136a, 136b. During such axial or fore-aft movement of the platform 104 and frame 106, the rollers (e.g., 164) of the tilt bias carriage assemblies 134a, 134b move in the axial or fore-aft direction along the upwardly facing surfaces of the base side members 108a, 108b. The spring bias members of the tilt bias carriage assemblies 134a, 134b serve to maintain the rollers (e.g., 164) of the tilt bias carriage assemblies 134a, 134b in contact with the upwardly facing surfaces of the base side members 108a, 108b, respectively. In this manner, the tilt bias carriage assemblies 134a, 134b serve to apply an upward biasing force to the underside of the platform 104 on either side of the longitudinal frame member 122 during axial movement of the frame member 122 relative to the base 102 to bias the platform 104 toward the neutral tilt position, while the arcuate engagement regions 136a, 136b bias the platform 104 toward the axial mid-position during left and right tilting movement of the platform 104.

[0119] Figure 18 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present application is shown and is indicated generally by the reference numeral 200. In this embodiment, the movable exercise equipment stand 200 includes a foldable base portion 202 and a foldable platform portion 204.

[0120] The foldable base portion 202 includes a front base portion 206, a rear base portion 208, and a middle base portion 210 between the front base portion 206 and the rear base portion 208. A front hinge 212 pivotably connects the front base portion 206 to a front portion of the middle base portion 210 by a front hinge pin 213, and a rear hinge 214 pivotably connects the rear base portion 208 to a rear portion of the middle base portion 210 by a rear hinge pin 215. The front hinge 212 and the rear hinge 214 can have any conventional hinge configuration as desired and enable the front base portion 206 and the middle base portion 210 to pivot relative to each other about the front hinge pin 213 and the rear base portion 208 and the middle base portion 210 to pivot relative to each other about the rear hinge pin 215.

[0121] The front base portion 206 of the base portion 202 includes a centrally located front bracket 216 to which a front flanged roller 218 is rotatably mounted. Similarly, the rear base portion 208 of the base portion 202 includes a centrally located rear bracket 220 to which a rear flanged roller 222 is rotatably mounted. In addition, the rear base portion 208 includes a pair of upwardly facing tracks 224 near each side edge of the rear base portion 208. The front base portion 206 also includes a pair of steps 225 configured to support the weight of a user when the user is mounting or dismounting the exercise equipment (e.g., the bicycle B).

[0122] The platform portion 204 includes a front platform portion 226 and a rear platform portion 228. The front platform portion 226 is configured to fit between the steps 225 of the front base portion 206. A hinge 230 including a hinge pin 231 pivotably connects a rear portion of the front platform portion 226 and a front portion of the rear platform portion 228 to enable the front platform portion 226 and the rear platform portion 228 to pivot relative to each other. The front platform portion 226 can include an optional wheel support 232 configured to be positioned under the front wheel of a bicycle (e.g., the bicycle B) when placed on the movable exercise equipment support 200. The wheel support 232 is movable within a guide rail or slot 234 formed in the front platform portion 226 to accommodate different types and sizes of bicycles and to allow adjustment of the position of the bicycle on the platform portion 204. A series of guide rails or slots 236 can be formed in the rear platform portion 228. Securing straps (e.g., indicated by 238) can be movably mounted within the slots 236. The securing straps 238 can be used to secure a bicycle trainer (e.g., the trainer T) in place on the upwardly facing surface of the rear platform portion 228.

[0123] Platform portion 204 includes, on its underside, a centrally located front arc-shaped track 240 and a rear arc-shaped track 242, respectively fixed to the front platform portion 226 and the rear platform portion 228. Tracks 240 and 242 have a structure similar to the aforementioned track member 140, having a central rib region extending along the track length in the front-rear direction. As also described above, the central rib regions of tracks 240 and 242 are respectively engaged within the grooves of rollers 218 and 222.

[0124] In this embodiment, the front platform portion 226 has a pair of rail mounting bosses 244, 246, and a front rail 240 extends between and is mounted thereon. Similarly, the rear platform portion 228 has a pair of rail mounting bosses 248, 250, and a rear rail 242 extends between and is mounted thereon. Typically, bosses 244 and 246 may be integrally formed with the material of the front platform portion 226, for example, by molding. Similarly, bosses 248 and 250 may be integrally formed with the material of the rear platform portion 228, for example, by molding. However, it should be understood that the bosses may be formed separately and may be attached to the platform portion 204 in any satisfactory manner.

[0125] In addition, a pair of tilting offset bracket assemblies (e.g., indicated by 252) are respectively mounted on both sides of the rear platform portion 228. Figures 19-24 As shown, each tilt-bias bracket assembly 252 includes a bracket member 254 pivotally mounted to the underside of the rear platform portion 228 via a pin 256. A roller 258 is rotatably mounted to the end of the bracket member 254 and engages with a rail 224 on the rear base portion 208. As previously described for tilt-bias bracket assembly 134a, a biasing member engages with the bracket member 254 to bias the bracket member 254 downward toward the rear base portion 208 of the frame-side member. This biasing member can be in the form of a torsion spring, a compression spring, or any other satisfactory mechanism or device for applying a downward biasing force to the bracket member 254. In the illustrated embodiment, the spring is in the form of a foam block 259, shown in a compressed state, applying an upward biasing force to the underside of the rear platform portion 228 and a downward biasing force that forces the roller 258 against the rail 224. In this way, the roller 258 is biased against the upward-facing surface of the rail 224.

[0126] The rear platform portion 228 comprises at its rear end laterally movable weight means. The weight means comprise a rail 260 spanning the rear end of the rear platform portion 228 and a weight member 262 located below the rail 260. The weight member 262 is movable in a laterally extending channel formed in the rear end of the rear platform portion 228 below the rail 260. A weight positioning member in the form of a button 264 is secured to the weight member 262. The button 264 has a connector portion extending the rail 260. By this arrangement the button 264 is movable along the rail 260 to position the weight member 262 in any desired lateral position relative to the platform portion 204. Thus the position of the weight member 262 can be varied to accommodate any unevenness in the weight distribution of the exercise equipment supported on the platform portion 204 relative to the longitudinal or fore-aft axis of the platform portion 204. Such unevenness can for example be caused by the engagement of the bicycle B with the trainer T having a heavier flywheel which is off-centre relative to the longitudinal axis of the platform portion 204.

[0127] Operation of the movable exercise equipment support 200 is generally as previously described with reference to the exercise equipment support 100. Figure 22The movable exercise equipment support 100 operates the same. That is, the exercise equipment support 200 moves in the axial fore-aft direction and tilts left and right during use of the bicycle B by a user to provide a more realistic world experience to the user. The platform portion 204 tilts in the direction of a downward force by pivotal movement of the central web regions of the rail members 240, 242 within the grooves of the rollers 218, 222, respectively. At the same time, the platform portion 204 moves in the axial or fore-aft direction forward or backward by axial movement of the rail members 240, 242 over the grooved rollers 218, 222, respectively, when axial horizontal forces are transmitted to the platform portion 204. The arcuate configuration of the rail members 240, 242 provides for the platform portion 204 to be biased toward the axial mid position under the influence of gravity, where the rollers 218, 222 are located at the uppermost central portions of the rail members 240, 242, respectively. During such axial or fore-aft movement of the platform portion 204, the rollers (e.g., 258) of the tilt bias carriage assembly 252 move in the axial or fore-aft direction along the upward facing surface of the rail (e.g., 224). The spring biasing members of the tilt bias carriage assembly 252 serve to maintain the rollers (e.g., 258) of the tilt bias carriage assembly 252 in contact with the upward facing surface of the rail 224. In this manner, the tilt bias carriage assembly 252 serves to apply an upward biasing force to the underside of the platform portion 204 on either side of the longitudinal axis of the platform portion 204 to bias the platform portion 204 toward the tilt mid position as the platform portion 204 moves axially relative to the base portion 202, while the arcuate configuration of the rails 240, 242 biases the platform portion 204 toward the axial mid position during left and right tilting movement of the platform portion 204. The arcuate shape of the rail 224 insulates the tilt bias from fore-aft movement of the platform portion 204 to provide a consistent tilt bias force throughout the range of movement of the platform portion 204.

[0128] The configuration and configuration of the movable exercise equipment support 200 provides an additional feature, as shown in Figures 1-18 and 24 In this regard, the movable exercise equipment support 200 can be folded into a more compact, non-working configuration when not in use (e.g., during shipping or storage). To this end, the front and rear platform portions 226, 228 are pivoted together at the hinge 230, respectively. The width of the intermediate base portion 210 is slightly greater than the folded width of the front and rear platform portions 226, 228, respectively, so that the front and rear base portions 206, 208 can be folded upwardly into positions adjacent the front and rear platform portions 226, 228, respectively. Appropriate latching mechanisms can be employed to selectively retain the movable exercise equipment support 200 in the folded position.

[0129] Figure 23The illustrated embodiment shows the front wheel of the bicycle B engaging and supported on a slot or riser structure fixed to the front region of the platform. However, it is understood that the front of the bicycle B can be supported in any other manner as desired, such as but not limited to using a fork stand to support in a known manner.

[0130] Figures 1-24 An embodiment of the mobile exercise equipment stand of the present application is shown, generally designated 700, which is generally similar to the embodiment of Figures 24a-24c the present application. The bicycle B and the trainer T are shown supported on the mobile exercise equipment stand 700. Although the drawing shows the trainer T in the form of a wheel trainer, it is understood that any other type of trainer can be employed, such as a direct drive trainer. A front wheel support 702 is disposed on the front platform portion of the mobile exercise equipment stand 700 for supporting the front wheel of the bicycle B.

[0131] The base portion and the platform portion of the mobile exercise equipment stand 700 are similar in structure and operation to the base portion 202 and the platform portion 204 of the mobile exercise equipment stand 200 shown and described with reference to Figures 19-24 the present application. The schematic view of the mobile exercise equipment stand 700 shows additional features that can be incorporated into the mobile exercise equipment stand 200, 700.

[0132] As shown in Figures 19-24 the mobile exercise equipment stand 700 has a base portion 704 and a platform portion 706. Grooved rollers, such as 708, are rotatably mounted to the base portion 704 and arcuate ribbed tracks, such as represented by 710, are fixed to the platform portion 706 and engage the grooved rollers 708 to effect axial fore and aft movement of the platform portion 706 relative to the base portion 704. Tilting bias bracket assemblies, such as 712, having rollers, such as 714, are disposed on the platform portion 706 for biasing the platform portion 706 toward a tilting mid position. The tilting bracket rollers 714 engage and are movable along tracks, such as 716, on the base portion 704.

[0133] The rails 716 of the base portion 704 have a curvature and configuration that matches the rails 710 of the platform portion 706, but are upwardly facing rather than downwardly facing. That is, the engagement faces of each rail 710 face downwardly, while the engagement faces of each rail 716 face upwardly. In addition, each rail 716 is axially offset relative to its associated rail 710 by a distance that corresponds to the center-to-center distance between the rollers 708 and 714. With this arrangement, the tilt biasing force exerted by the spring 718 on the tilt bias carriage assembly 712 is not affected by the axial position of the platform portion 706 relative to the base portion 704. It will be appreciated that if the rollers 714 of the tilt carriage assembly 712 were to travel along a differently configured surface (e.g., a flat surface) on the base portion 704, then the biasing force exerted by the spring 718 would vary during axial movement of the platform portion 706 relative to the base portion 704. As shown in Figure 24c the configuration of the rails 710 and 716 avoids this problem.

[0134] This embodiment shows an alternative version of the counterweight arrangement for counteracting any axial imbalance of the exercise equipment relative to the platform. In this version, the counterweight 719 is composed of upper and lower counterweight portions that are held together by an extendable and retractable screw that is operable using a knob 720. Each counterweight portion is provided with a transverse channel into which an upper and lower lip 721 defined at the rear surface of the rear platform portion 706 is received. The lips 721 span the width of the platform portion 706. By loosening the counterweight screw using the knob 720, the counterweight 719 can be moved along the width of the platform portion 706 to any desired position. When the counterweight 719 is in the desired position, the screw is tightened using the knob 720 to move the counterweight portions together, which clamps the counterweight portions to the lips 721 and holds them in the desired position.

[0135] Figure 24c Another feature in the form of a latch or coupling arrangement that can be incorporated into a movable exercise equipment stand (e.g., 200, 700) is shown. As previously described, the movable exercise equipment stand can include a front platform portion 722 and a rear platform portion 724 that are foldably connected by a hinge 726. A coupling mechanism (indicated generally by 728) is provided to selectively secure the front and rear platform portions 722 and 724 together, respectively, to maintain the platform portions in an unfolded, working configuration. The coupling mechanism (e.g., 728) can be provided on either or both sides of the movable exercise equipment stand.

[0136] The coupling mechanism 728 includes a coupling shaft 730 that is slidably disposed within a channel 732 that extends inwardly from an end face of the front platform portion 722. A slot 734 is formed within a portion of the length of the wall of the front platform portion 722 that forms the channel 732. A handle or knob 736 is located externally relative to the wall of the front platform portion 722, and a threaded rod extends inwardly from the knob 736 and engages a transverse threaded channel 738 formed in a side region of the coupling shaft 730. The knob 736 can be used to axially move the coupling shaft 730 within the slot 734, the range of movement of the coupling shaft 730 being controlled by the engagement of the rod with the end of the slot 734.

[0137] A receiver channel 740 extends inwardly from an end face of the rear platform portion 724 and is generally aligned with the channel 732 when the front and rear platform portions 722, 724 are deployed. The receiver channel 740 has a cross-section similar to that of the coupling shaft 730, but is slightly larger than the cross-section of the coupling shaft 730.

[0138] With this arrangement, when the platform portions 722, 724 are first deployed, the coupling shaft channel 732 and the receiver channel 740 are generally aligned with each other, as shown in Figures 24d-24g The user then grasps the knob 736 and pushes the coupling shaft 730 rearwardly to move the coupling shaft 730 into the receiver channel 740. The coupling shaft 730 thereby serves to prevent the front and rear platform portions 722, 724 from moving away from the deployed operating position. At the same time, the movement of the coupling shaft 730 into the receiver channel 740 achieves automatic levelling of the front and rear platform portions 722, 724 on the base of the movable exercise equipment support, respectively, since the coupled platform portions 722, 724 are biased toward the horizontal position by gravity.

[0139] Figure 24f and 24iA typical construction of the coupler shaft 730 is shown. In this embodiment, the coupler shaft 730 includes a pair of coupler shaft portions 742, 744 which are joined to one another by a threaded shaft (indicated by 746) which is connected to and extends from the knob 736. The shaft 746 passes through a slotted passage 748 in the coupler shaft portion 742, and the threaded end of the shaft 746 is secured within a threaded passage 750 in the coupler shaft portion 744. The coupler shaft portions 742, 744 are provided with complementary beveled engagement surfaces 752, 754, respectively. The knob 736 defines a shoulder 756, so that when the knob 736 is turned to advance the threaded shaft 746, the engagement of the shoulder 756 with the surface of the coupler shaft portion 742 at the entrance to the slotted passage 748 causes the engagement surface 752 of the coupler shaft portion 742 to slide laterally upwardly over the engagement surface 754 of the coupler shaft portion 744. Because the passages 732, 740 are only slightly larger than the cross-section of the coupler shaft 730, this movement of the coupler shaft portions serves to firmly engage the surfaces of the coupler shaft portions 742, 744 with the walls of the passages 732, 740 to firmly engage the coupler shaft 730 with the front platform portion 722 and the rear platform portion 724, respectively, and to prevent movement of the coupler shaft 730 due to jarring or relative movement of the platform portions 722, 724.

[0140] Figure 24h Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown, and is indicated by reference numeral 760. The bicycle B and the trainer T are shown supported on the movable exercise equipment support 760. Although the drawing shows the trainer T in the form of a wheel trainer, it should be understood that any other type of trainer can be employed, such as a direct drive trainer.

[0141] In this embodiment, the movable exercise equipment support 760 includes a rear portion 762 and a front portion 764. The rear portion 762 includes a base 768 and a platform 770. The base 768 includes a pair of axially aligned rollers 772, and the platform 770 includes a pair of downwardly facing ribbed tracks 774 which engage the rollers 772. The rollers 772 and tracks 774 have substantially the same construction and function as the previously described rollers and tracks, enabling axial fore and aft movement and tilting movement of the platform 770 relative to the base 768. A tilting bias bracket assembly (indicated by 776) is provided on the platform 770 and engages the base 768 to bias the platform 770 toward a tilting mid-position, as previously described.

[0142] In this embodiment, the front portion 764 of the movable exercise equipment support 760 is fixed. A front wheel support 778 is located beneath the front wheel of the bicycle B, and a pair of steps 780 are provided on either side of the wheel support 778. The front wheel support 778 includes an upwardly facing slot or channel 782. The channel 782 is configured to receive the front wheel of the bicycle B so that the front wheel of the bicycle is able to move axially in the fore-aft direction in response to axial forces applied to the bicycle B during operation. When the bicycle B is subjected to lateral or side forces during operation, the bottom of the front wheel of the bicycle B rotates within the channel 782 to enable the bicycle B to tip or lean. With this arrangement, the movable exercise equipment support 760 has a sort of hybrid motion system due to the axial and tilting movement of the platform 770 at the rear of the bicycle B and the normal (but tracked) rolling and tilting of the front wheel of the bicycle B within the channel 782 of the wheel support 778.

[0143] Figures 24j-24m Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown and is indicated generally by the reference numeral 270. In this embodiment, the movable exercise equipment support 270 is shown as supporting a bicycle B and a trainer T (in this case, a direct drive trainer), although it will be appreciated that any other type of exercise equipment can be employed.

[0144] The movable exercise equipment support 270 generally includes a front portion 272 and a rear portion 274 that are connected together by a connector member 276. The front portion 272 has a generally rectangular configuration that includes a pair of side walls 278, 280 and a pair of end walls 282, 284. The side walls 278, 280 are provided with arcuate slots 286. A front cross member 288 extends between the side walls 278, 280. Each front cross member 288 includes a roller 290 at each end that is located within one of the slots 286. Similarly, the rear portion 274 has a generally rectangular configuration that includes a pair of side walls 292, 294 and a pair of end walls 296, 298. The side walls 292, 294 are provided with arcuate slots 300. A rear cross member 302 extends between the side walls 292, 294. Each rear cross member 302 includes a roller 304 at each end that is located within one of the slots 300.

[0145] A front wheel support 306 extends between and is fixed to the front cross members 288. The front wheel support 306 can have a wheel engagement slot 308 fixed thereto that is adapted to receive the front wheel of the bicycle B to hold the front wheel in place relative to the front portion 272. Similarly, reference is made to Figures 25-28A rear support member 310 extends between and is secured to the rear cross members 302. A lower resilient pad or cushion member 312 is secured between the rear support member 310 and the facing surfaces of the rear cross members 302. An upper resilient pad or cushion member 314 is secured to the upper surface of the rear support member 310. A pair of steps 316 can be provided on the rear portion 274 to assist a user in mounting and dismounting the bicycle B.

[0146] The trainer T can be provided with or secured to a mounting plate 318 which is secured to the upper surface of the rear support member 310. The rear support member 310 and the front and rear cushion members 312, 314 extend along the longitudinal axis defined by the movable exercise equipment support 270 and the cushion members 312, 314 enable the trainer T and the bicycle B to tilt or tip about an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the movable exercise equipment support 270. The cushion members 312, 314 are formed of a stiff but resilient material which tends to bias the mounting plate 318 towards the horizontal position. In this way, the trainer T and the bicycle B are biased towards the upright position. As previously described, during use of the bicycle B, when one side of the movable exercise equipment support 270 is subjected to a net downward or upward force relative to the other side, the trainer T and the bicycle B will tip or tilt. At the same time, when a horizontal force is applied to the bicycle B and the trainer T, this force is transmitted to the front and rear portions 272, 274 of the movable exercise equipment support 270 by the front and rear support members 306, 310, respectively. This force causes the front roller 290 to move within the slot 286 and the roller 304 to move within the slot 300 to allow the bicycle B and the trainer T to move in the fore and aft direction. The arcuate and upwardly convex configuration of the slots 286, 300 biases the rollers 290, 304, respectively, under the influence of gravity to their lowest positions within the slots 286, 300 to bias the bicycle B and the trainer T towards the axial mid position.

[0147] In Figure 26 and 30Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown in FIG. 3 (indicated by reference numeral 320). In this embodiment, the movable exercise equipment support 320 has a two-piece base consisting of a front base portion 322 and a rear base portion 324. The base portions 322, 324 are generally C-shaped and face each other. However, it is understood that the base portions 322, 324 can be joined together to form a single-piece base. The front base portion 322 includes a front transverse member 326 and a pair of rearwardly extending side members 328 extending from each end of the front transverse member 326, respectively. Similarly, the rear base portion 324 includes a rear transverse member 330 and a pair of forwardly extending side members 332 extending from each end of the rear transverse member 330, respectively. An inwardly extending roller (indicated by 334) is provided on each of the side members 328, 332.

[0148] In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are secured to a frame assembly (generally indicated by 336) that includes a front frame member 338, a rear frame member 340, and a central axial member 342. The front wheel of the bicycle B is secured to the central axial member 342 at the front frame member 338, and the trainer T is supported on the rear frame member 340, which is in the form of a platform below the trainer T and to which the trainer T is secured. The front frame member 338 is secured at its two ends to a pair of front side support members 344, and the rear frame member 340 is secured at its two ends to a pair of rear side support members 346. A downwardly facing arcuate engagement surface (indicated by 348) is formed on the underside of each front side support member 344, and a similarly configured downwardly facing arcuate engagement surface 350 is formed on the underside of each rear side support member 346. The arcuate engagement surfaces 348, 350 ride on the rollers (e.g., 334) secured to the base side members 328, 333. The rollers 334 tend to remain in the central region of the uppermost side of the arcuate engagement surfaces 348, 350 under the force of gravity to place the frame assembly 336 in a lowered axial mid-position, thereby placing the bicycle B and the trainer T in a lowered axial mid-position.

[0149] As Figure 29As shown, the underside of the rear cross member 330 is provided with a pair of downwardly extending arcuate engagement surfaces 352a, 352b. A roller support 354 is placed on a support surface (e.g., floor) and a pair of laterally spaced apart rollers 356a, 356b are rotatably mounted to the roller support 354 in any suitable manner. The arcuate engagement surfaces 352a, 352b are positioned over the rollers 356a, 356b, respectively. The rollers 356a, 356b are biased under the influence of gravity to remain in the central region of the uppermost side of the arcuate engagement surfaces 352a, 352b, respectively, to place the frame assembly 336 in a centered lateral vertical median position, and thereby place the bicycle B and the trainer T in a centered lateral vertical median position. A similar pair of downwardly extending arcuate engagement surfaces are provided on the underside of the front cross member 326, and a roller support similar to the roller support 354 that carries laterally spaced apart rollers is provided on the support surface (e.g., floor) below the pair of front arcuate engagement surfaces.

[0150] In this version, the exercise equipment support 320 moves in the axial fore-aft and lateral directions during use of the bicycle B to provide the user with a more realistic world experience. During use of the bicycle B and the trainer T, when horizontal lateral or transverse forces are applied to the frame assembly 336, the frame assembly 336 and the fore-aft base portions 322, 324 move laterally on the rollers (e.g., 356a, 356b). Similarly, when horizontal axial forces are transmitted to the frame assembly 336, the frame assembly 336 moves in the axial or fore-aft direction forward or backward by axial movement of the engagement surfaces 348, 350 on the rollers 334. The arcuate configuration of the engagement surfaces provides for biasing of the frame assembly 336 toward the axial and lateral medians under the influence of gravity.

[0151] Figure 30 and 32 A tilt or recline function is shown that can be incorporated into the movable exercise equipment support of the present application. Typically, Figure 31 and 32 The tilt or recline function shown in FIGS. 1-3 can be used in combination with the axial or fore-aft movement function incorporated in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-6. Figure 31 and 30 The base and frame incorporating the axial or fore-aft movement function shown and described in the embodiments shown in FIGS. 4-6 are used in combination. As shown in FIG. 7, Figure 29 and 32 As shown, the bicycle B can be engaged with the trainer T having a laterally extending strut member or outrigger 360 with rollers 362 secured toward the outer end of the strut member 360. The base or frame includes a pair of upwardly facing arcuate engagement surfaces 364 that support the rollers 362. In this version, as shown in FIG. 8, Figure 31The illustrated roller 364 in the rest position is located outside the central region of the engagement surface 364. In this way, although the engagement surface biases the trainer T and the bicycle B under the influence of gravity towards a lowered position, the lowest position is not reached if the roller 362 normally rests in the lowest central region of the engagement surface 364. Thus, when a net downward force is applied to the bicycle B and the trainer T on the other side of the axial midline of the bicycle B and the trainer T, the tipping or tilting function is achieved, as Figure 31 is illustrated. Here it can be seen that the radius of the engagement surface 364 can be arranged such that the centre of the tipping or tilting movement axis of the bicycle B and the trainer T can be placed at a relatively high position relative to the position of the user on the bicycle B, for example above the centre of gravity of the user. This provides a more stable and safe feeling for the user during the lateral movement compared to other trainers with lateral or tilting movement.

[0152] Figure 32 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is illustrated and is indicated by 368. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are fixed to a platform assembly 370 which comprises a front platform portion 372, a rear platform portion 374, and a central axial member 376 extending between and fixed to the front platform portion 372 and the rear platform portion 374. A pair of front rollers 378 are mounted to either side of the front platform portion 372 and a pair of rear rollers 380 are mounted to either side of the rear platform portion 374.

[0153] The platform assembly 370 is supported on a generally rectangular frame 382 which comprises a pair of side frame members 384 and a pair of end frame members 386. The side frame members 384 are provided with an upwardly facing front arcuate engagement surface 388 and an upwardly facing rear arcuate engagement surface 390 respectively. The front rollers 378 of the platform assembly 370 are located in and rest against the upwardly facing front arcuate engagement surface 388 and the rear rollers 380 of the platform assembly 370 are located in and rest against the upwardly facing rear arcuate engagement surface 390.

[0154] The front end frame member 386 comprises a pair of forwardly extending rollers 392 and the rear end frame member 386 comprises a pair of rearwardly extending rollers 394. A front support member 396 is located adjacent to and forward of the front end frame member 386 and, similarly, a rear support member 398 is located adjacent to and rearward of the rear frame member 386. The front support member 396 comprises a pair of upwardly facing arcuate engagement surfaces 400 and the rear support 398 comprises a pair of upwardly facing arcuate engagement surfaces 402. The front rollers 392 are located in and rest against the upwardly facing front arcuate engagement surfaces 400 and the rear rollers 394 are located in and rest against the upwardly facing rear engagement surfaces 402.

[0155] It will be appreciated that the front and rear engagement surfaces 388, 390 of the side frame members 384 extend in the axial or fore-aft direction, and that the front and rear rollers 392, 394 are rotatable about respective axes of rotation that are generally parallel to the axial direction, but need not necessarily be parallel to the axial direction. The front and rear engagement surfaces 400, 402 of the front and rear support members 396, 398 extend in a transverse direction that can be perpendicular to the axial or fore-aft direction, or can be curved, and the front and rear rollers 378, 380 are rotatable about respective axes of rotation that are generally parallel to the transverse direction, but need not necessarily be parallel to the transverse direction. With this arrangement, movement of the front and rear rollers 378, 380 within the front and rear engagement surfaces 388, 390 along the front and rear engagement surfaces 388, 390, respectively, allows the bicycle B and trainer T to move in the fore-aft or longitudinal direction in response to axial forces experienced by the platform assembly 370 during use of the bicycle B. Simultaneous movement of the front and rear rollers 392, 394 within the front and rear engagement surfaces 400, 402 along the front and rear engagement surfaces 400, 402, respectively, enables the bicycle B and trainer T to move in the lateral or transverse direction in response to transverse forces experienced by the platform assembly 370 during use of the bicycle B. The curvature of the engagement surfaces 388, 390 enables a bias toward the axial mid-position under the influence of gravity, and the curvature of the engagement surfaces 400, 402 likewise enables a bias toward the lateral mid-position under the influence of gravity.

[0156] Figure 33 Another embodiment of the present application is shown, which is a movable exercise equipment support, indicated generally at 406. In this embodiment, the bicycle B (not shown) and trainer T are carried by a platform assembly 408 that includes a front platform portion 410, a rear platform portion 412, and an axial connector member 414 extending between and secured to the front and rear platform portions 410, 412. A pair of front rollers 416 extend forwardly from the front platform portion 410, and a pair of rear rollers 418 extend rearwardly from the rear platform portion 412. The front and rear rollers 416, 418 are rotatable about respective axes of rotation that are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform assembly 408.

[0157] The platform assembly 408 is disposed on a frame assembly 420 that includes a pair of side members 422 and a pair of end members 424. The frame side members 422 are provided with a pair of front rollers 426 and a pair of rear rollers 428. Each end frame member 424 includes a pair of upwardly facing arcuate engagement surfaces 430. The engagement surfaces 430 extend transversely relative to the axial or longitudinal axis of the platform assembly 408. The rollers 426, 428 are rotatable about respective axes of rotation that also extend transversely relative to the axial or longitudinal axis of the platform assembly 408.

[0158] The frame assembly 420 engages with and is supported by the base assembly 432, which includes a pair of side members 434 and a pair of end members 436. The base side members 434 have an arcuate front engagement groove 438 and an arcuate rear engagement groove 440. The front engagement groove 438 and the rear engagement groove 440 extend in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the platform assembly 408.

[0159] The frame assembly 420 and the base assembly 432 are generally rectangular in shape, with the frame assembly 420 having a smaller footprint than the base assembly 432. In this way, the frame assembly 420 can be nested within the open interior of the base assembly 432. In this arrangement, the front roller 426 of the frame assembly 420 is located within and can move along the front slot 438 of the base assembly 432, and similarly, the rear roller 428 of the frame assembly 420 is located within and can move along the rear slot 440.

[0160] With this arrangement, the movement of the front roller 416 and the rear roller 418 within the front and rear mating surfaces 430 allows the bicycle B and the trainer T to move laterally or sideways in response to lateral or lateral forces experienced by the platform assembly 408 during use of the bicycle B. The simultaneous movement of the front roller 426 and the rear roller 428 within the front slot 438 and the rear slot 440, respectively, enables the bicycle B and the trainer T to move axially or longitudinally in response to axial forces experienced by the platform assembly 408 during use of the bicycle B. The curvature of the mating surfaces of slots 438 and 440 allows for axial offset under gravity, while the curvature of the mating surface 430 similarly allows for lateral offset under gravity.

[0161] Figure 34 and 36 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention is shown, indicated by reference numeral 444. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are fixed and supported on a platform assembly 446, which includes an axially extending central support or platform member 448. The front end of the platform member 448 is fixed to a front platform member 450, and the rear end of the platform member 448 is fixed to a rear platform member 452. A pair of front rollers 454 are fixed to and extend forward therefrom the front platform member 450, and a pair of rear rollers 456 are fixed to and extend rearward therefrom the rear platform member 452.

[0162] The platform assembly 446 is disposed on a frame assembly 458, which includes a pair of side members 460 and a pair of end members 462. The frame end members 462 are provided with laterally or transversely extending arcuate engagement surfaces, in the form of upwardly facing arcuate engagement surfaces 464 in the case of the front end members 462, and in the form of arcuate slots 466 in the case of the rear end members 462. The front and rear rollers 454, 456 of the platform assembly 446 are located within and supported by the front engagement surfaces 464, and the rear rollers 456 of the platform assembly 446 are located within and supported by the slots 466. As in the previously described embodiments, the engagement surfaces 464 and slots 466 extend laterally or transversely with respect to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B, and the rollers 454, 456 are rotatable about rotational axes that are perpendicular to (i.e., parallel to the axial or longitudinal axis of the bicycle B). The frame assembly 458 further includes a pair of outwardly extending front rollers 468 that are respectively securable to the two ends of the frame front end members 462, and a pair of outwardly extending rear rollers 470 that are respectively securable to the two ends of the frame rear end members 462.

[0163] The frame assembly 458 is disposed on and supported by a base assembly 472. Both the frame assembly 458 and the base assembly 472 have a generally rectangular configuration, with the footprint of the frame assembly 458 being slightly smaller than the footprint of the base assembly 472, such that the frame assembly 458 can be accommodated within the interior of the base assembly 472. The base assembly 468 includes a pair of side members 474 and a pair of end members 476, as well as a pair of front support members 478 and a pair of rear support members 480. Each of the front support members 478 includes an upwardly facing arcuate engagement surface 482, and each of the rear support members 480 includes an upwardly facing arcuate engagement surface 484. When the frame assembly 458 is located within the interior of the base assembly 472, the front rollers 468 are located within and supported by the upwardly facing arcuate front engagement surfaces 482, and likewise the rear rollers 470 are located within and supported by the upwardly facing arcuate rear engagement surfaces 484. As in the previously described embodiments, the engagement surfaces 482, 484 extend axially or longitudinally along axes that are parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B, and the rollers 468, 470 are rotatable about rotational axes that are perpendicular to (i.e., transverse to) the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B.

[0164] With this configuration, the movement of the front roller 454 within the front engagement surface 464 and the movement of the rear roller 456 within the rear slot 466 allow the bicycle B and the trainer T to move laterally or laterally in response to lateral or sideways forces experienced by the platform assembly 446 during use of the bicycle B. The simultaneous movement of the front roller 468 and the rear roller 470 within the front engagement surface 482 and the rear engagement surface 484, respectively, enables the bicycle B and the trainer T to move axially or longitudinally in response to axial forces experienced by the platform assembly 446 during use of the bicycle B. The curvature of the engagement surfaces 482 and 484 allows for axial offset under gravity, while the curvature of the engagement surfaces 464 and the slot 466 similarly allows for lateral offset under gravity.

[0165] Figure 35 and 38 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention is shown, indicated by reference numeral 484. In this embodiment, bicycle B and trainer T are fixed and supported on a support assembly 486, which includes an axially extending central support or support member 448. The front end of the support member 488 is fixed to a front lateral member 490, and the rear end of the support member 488 is fixed to a rear lateral member 492. The front wheel of bicycle B is fixed to the central support member 488 via a wheel bracket 494. Trainer T is fixed to the rear region of the central support member 488 via a pair of laterally extending trainer mounting members 496, 498. Each end of the front lateral member 490 and the rear lateral member 492 has a roller (similar to rollers 468, 470 in the previous embodiment) extending outwardly from it.

[0166] The carrier assembly 486 is mounted onto the base assembly 500, which may include a pair of side members 502 and a pair of end members 504. The base assembly 500 also includes a pair of front support members 506 and a pair of rear support members 508. Each of the front and rear support members has an arcuate engagement groove (e.g., indicated by 510) in which outwardly extending rollers fixed to the ends of the front lateral member 490 and the rear lateral member 492 are received. The slot 510 extends in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B, and the rollers at the ends of the front lateral member 490 and the rear lateral member 492 are rotatable about a rotation axis perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0167] With this construction, movement of the rollers within the slots 510 along the slots 510 effects forward and rearward axial or longitudinal movement of the bicycle B and the trainer T in response to axial forces experienced by the carrier assembly 486 during use of the bicycle B. The curvature of the slots 510 effects a bias toward the axial mid-position under the influence of gravity. In this embodiment, tilt or tip-over devices are provided between the central carrier member 488 and the ends of the front and rear cross members 490, 492, respectively. Typically, the tilt or tip-over devices can have a form similar to that described above with reference to the embodiment of the application shown in Figs. 1-3, it being understood, of course, that any other satisfactory device can be employed. Figure 37 The tilt or tip-over devices can have a form similar to that described above with reference to the embodiment of the application shown in Figs. 1-3, it being understood, of course, that any other satisfactory device can be employed.

[0168] Figures 25-28 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown and is indicated generally at 514. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are secured and supported on a carrier assembly 516 which includes an axially extending central support or carrier member 518. The carrier assembly 516 is movably mounted to a base (indicated generally at 520) using a compound linkage system. The linkage system includes a pair of front linkage members 522 and a pair of rear linkage members 524. The front and rear linkage members 522, 524 extend upwardly from an upper surface of the base 520 and are pivotally mounted to the base 520. The pivotal connections between the lower ends of the linkage members 522, 524 and the base 520 enable the linkage members 522, 524 to move laterally or sideways about a pivot axis which is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B. A front suspension linkage member 526 is secured to and extends upwardly from a forward end of the central carrier member 518, and similarly, a rear suspension linkage member 528 is secured to and extends upwardly from a rearward end of the central carrier member 518. The upper end of the front suspension linkage member 526 is pivotally mounted to and extends between the front linkage members 522. Likewise, the upper end of the rear suspension linkage member 528 is pivotally mounted to and extends between the rear linkage members 524. The pivotal connections of the upper ends of the suspension linkage members 526, 528 enable the front and rear suspension linkage members 526, 528 to pivot in a forward and rearward direction or axially about a pivot axis which is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B. With this construction, axial forces experienced by the carrier assembly 516 during use of the bicycle B and the trainer T cause the carrier assembly 516 to oscillate in the forward and rearward directions. At the same time, lateral or sideways forces experienced by the carrier assembly 516 during use of the bicycle B and the trainer T cause the carrier assembly 516 to move laterally or sideways due to the lateral or sideways pivotal movement of the linkage members 522, 524 relative to the base 520.

[0169] Figure 39Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment stand of the present invention is shown, indicated by 532. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are fixed and supported on a support assembly 534, which includes an axially extending central support or support member 448. The support assembly 534 is supported by a frame assembly 538, which in turn engages with a base assembly 540.

[0170] The frame assembly 538 may have a generally rectangular construction, including a pair of side frame members 542 and a pair of end frame members 544. A pair of spaced-apart upright members 546 are attached to and extend upward therefrom each end frame member 544. A transverse member 548 extends between and is attached to each pair of upright members 546.

[0171] A pair of suspension links 550 are pivotally mounted at their upper ends to each lateral member 548. Each suspension link 550 is pivotally connected at its lower end to a lateral link mounting rod (e.g., 552) fixed to each end of the central load-bearing member 536. The pivotal connection of the suspension links 550 allows the link 552 to move laterally or laterally about a pivot axis parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B.

[0172] A movable mounting device is arranged between the frame assembly 538 and the base assembly 540. This movable mounting device between the frame assembly 538 and the base assembly 548 can have any desired configuration (e.g., as referred to above). Figure 40 (The construction described) allows the frame assembly 538 to move in a forward or axial direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B.

[0173] With this configuration, lateral or transverse forces acting on the load-bearing assembly 534 during use of the bicycle B cause the load-bearing assembly 534 to swing laterally or laterally via the pivoting connection of the suspension link 550. Simultaneously, when the load-bearing assembly 534 is subjected to axial or longitudinal forces during operation of the bicycle B, the axially movable mounting device between the frame assembly 538 and the base assembly 540 allows the load-bearing assembly 534 to move in the fore-and-aft direction or axially, thereby allowing the bicycle B and the trainer T to move in the fore-and-aft direction or axially.

[0174] Figures 34-39 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present invention is shown, indicated by reference numeral 556. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are fixed and supported on a support assembly 558, which includes an axially extending central support or support member 560. The support assembly 558 is supported by a pair of end frame assemblies 562, which in turn engage with a base assembly 564.

[0175] Each frame assembly 562 has a generally rectangular configuration, including a top member 566, a bottom member 568, and a pair of side members 570. A pair of suspension links 572 are pivotally mounted to each top frame member 566 at their upper ends. Each suspension link 572 is pivotally connected at its lower end to one end of the central load bearing member 560. The pivotal connection of the suspension links 572 allows the links 572 to move laterally or transversely about a pivot axis that is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B.

[0176] The base 564 also has a generally rectangular configuration, including a pair of base side members 574 and a pair of base end members 576. An upright member 578 extends from each corner of the base 564. A series of suspension links 580 are pivotally mounted between the frame assembly 562 and the upright members 578. Each suspension link 580 is pivotally mounted at its upper end to one of the upright members 578 and at its lower end to one end of the bottom member 568 of the frame assembly. The pivotal connection of the suspension links 580 allows the links 580 to move about a pivot axis that is transverse to the longitudinal axis of the bicycle B.

[0177] With this configuration, lateral or transverse forces experienced by the bicycle B during use cause the load bearing assembly 558 to rock laterally or transversely about the pivotal connection of the suspension links 572. At the same time, axial or longitudinal forces experienced by the bicycle B during use cause the load bearing assembly 558 to rock fore and aft or axially about the pivotal connection of the suspension links 580.

[0178] Figures 41-43 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown and is indicated generally by the reference numeral 584. In this embodiment, the bicycle B and the trainer T are secured and supported on a load bearing assembly 586 that includes an axially extending central support or load bearing member 588. Each end of the central load bearing member 588 is secured with a transverse link mounting member 590.

[0179] The movable exercise equipment support 584 also includes a base assembly 592, which in the illustrated embodiment is generally rectangular in configuration and includes a pair of base side members 594 and a pair of base end members 596. In this embodiment, the load bearing assembly 586 is positioned above the base assembly 592 and is suspended therefrom by a linkage arrangement including front and rear linkages (indicated by 598). Each linkage 598 includes a pair of side link members 600 and a transverse central link member 602. The side link members 600 are pivotably mounted to the base assembly 592 by universal pivot joints 604, for example at the corners of the base assembly 592 defined by the base side members 594 and the base end members 596. Similarly, a universal pivot joint 604 is connected between the upper end of each side link member 600 and the adjacent end of each central link member 602. The load bearing assembly 586 is suspended below the central link members 602 by suspension linkages 606, each of which is connected at its upper end to a universal pivot joint 604 and at its lower end to a transverse link mounting member 590.

[0180] With this arrangement, lateral or transverse forces experienced by the load bearing assembly 586 during use of the bicycle B cause the load bearing assembly 586 to pivot laterally or transversely through the pivotal connections of the suspension linkages 606 to the universal pivot joints 604. At the same time, axial or longitudinal forces experienced by the load bearing assembly 586 during use of the bicycle B cause the load bearing assembly 586 to pivot fore and aft or axially through the pivotal connections of the universal pivot joints 604 to the base assembly 592. Furthermore, as shown, any difference in the lateral forces experienced by the load bearing assembly 586 enables the load bearing members 588 to twist about a vertical or upright axis. Figures 44-46

[0181] Figure 46 ​One embodiment of the present application is shown in which the movable support can be incorporated directly into the frame or support structure of an exercise machine. In this embodiment, the exercise machine is in the form of an exercise bicycle, generally indicated by 610, although it will be appreciated that the exercise machine can be any other type of exercise machine. The exercise bicycle 610 generally includes a frame assembly 612 and a base assembly 614. The frame assembly 612 can include a front upper frame member 616 adjustably mounted with a handlebar assembly 618, and a rear upper frame member 620 adjustably mounted with a saddle or seat 622. The front upper frame member 616 is vertically movable by a strut telescopically disposed within a front support tube 624, and likewise, the rear upper frame member 620 is vertically movable by a strut telescopically disposed within a rear support tube 626. The exercise bicycle can also include a drive gear 628 rotatably supported on a rear support member 630. The drive gear 628 is rotatable in response to user input force applied to a set of pedals in a known manner. The exercise bicycle 610 can also include a rotatable flywheel 631 driven by the drive gear 628 in a known manner.

[0182] The lower ends of the front support tube 624, the rear support tube 626 and the rear support member 630 are mounted to and extend upwardly from an axially extending base frame member 632 which forms part of the frame assembly 612. The base frame member 632 extends along the longitudinal axis of the exercise bicycle 610 and supports the frame assembly 612 above the base assembly 614. In the embodiment shown, the base frame member 632 is in the form of an axially extending tubular member, although it will be appreciated that any other suitable structural member can be employed. The base frame member 632 extends beyond the components of the frame assembly 612 above it and includes front and rear engagement regions, indicated by 634a, 634b respectively, at which the base frame member 632 is engaged with and supported above the base assembly 614. In the embodiment shown, the front engagement region 634a is forward of the forward most position in which the handlebar assembly 618 can be disposed, and the rear engagement region 634b is rearward of the rearward most position in which the saddle 622 can be disposed.

[0183] An arcuate ribbed track member 636a is secured to the underside of the base frame member 632 at the front engagement region 634a. Similarly, an arcuate ribbed track member 636b is secured to the underside of the base frame member 632 at the rear engagement region 634b. The construction and configuration of the arcuate ribbed track members 636a, 636b is similar to that described above with reference to the embodiment of the present application shown in Figures 1 to 5, and will not be described in detail again. Figures 47-49The illustrated embodiment of the application illustrates a similar configuration and arrangement of the tracks 240, 242. Typically, the portion of the bottom frame member 632 to which the arcuate ribbed track members 636a, 636b are mounted can have an arcuate curvature that matches the radius of the tracks 636a, 636b. Of course, the bottom frame member 632 can be formed without such curved portions or other such configurations.

[0184] A pair of outriggers or stabilizers 638 are secured to the frame assembly 612. The stabilizers 638 extend outwardly in opposite directions from the frame assembly 612 and can be secured to the frame assembly 612 in any satisfactory manner.

[0185] The base assembly 614 includes an axially extending central base member 640 adapted to be placed on a support surface, such as a floor. The central base member 640 is positioned below the bottom frame member 632 of the frame assembly 612. A front bracket 642a is mounted to the front end of the central base member 640 and a rear bracket 642b is mounted to the rear end of the central base member 640. A grooved roller is rotatably mounted in each of the front and rear brackets 642a, 642b, respectively. The grooved roller mounted to the rear bracket 642b is indicated at 644b in FIG. 6 and a similarly configured grooved roller is rotatably mounted to the front bracket 642a. The configuration of the grooved rollers, such as 644b, is similar to that previously described with reference to the embodiment of the application illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and is configured to receive the central ribbed regions of the track members 636a, 636b secured to the underside of the bottom frame member 632. Figures 19-24 Figure 47 The configuration of the grooved rollers, such as 644b, is similar to that previously described with reference to the embodiment of the application illustrated in FIGS. 1-5 and is configured to receive the central ribbed regions of the track members 636a, 636b secured to the underside of the bottom frame member 632.

[0186] With this configuration, as previously described, the track members 636a, 636b and the grooved rollers, such as 644b, allow the bottom frame member 632 to move axially or fore and aft relative to the base member 640 and to pivot about the central ribbed regions of the track members 634a, 634b within the grooves of the rollers, such as 644b. In this manner, longitudinal or axial forces experienced by the bottom frame member 632 during use of the exercise bicycle 610 result in the bottom frame member 632 translating fore and aft relative to the base assembly 614 by movement of the track members 634a, 634b within the grooved rollers, such as 644b, resulting in axial or fore and aft movement of the frame assembly 612. The arcuate configuration of the track members 634a, 634b results in the frame assembly 612 being biased toward the axial mid position under the influence of gravity, as previously described.

[0187] ​Each stabilizer 638 is mounted on a plate 646 that is secured to and extends outwardly from the central base member 640 in opposite directions. The outer end of each stabilizer 638 is positioned within a channel defined by a stabilizer guide 648, and each stabilizer guide 648 is secured to the outer end of one of the plates 646. The length of the channel defined by the stabilizer guide 648 is greater than the length of the stabilizer 638 so that the stabilizer 638 can move back and forth within the channel of the stabilizer guide 648 during forward and rearward movement of the stabilizer 638. A tilt biasing device is disposed between each stabilizer 638 and the plate 646 beneath it. Typically, the tilt biasing device can have the configuration of the tilt biasing bracket assemblies 134a, 134b shown and described previously with reference to Figures 1-24 or the tilt biasing bracket assembly 252 shown and described previously with reference to Figures 1-18 As previously described, the tilt biasing device acts on the stabilizer 638 to bias the frame assembly 612 of the exercise bicycle 610 toward the vertical, mid-tilt position. Although a pair of outriggers or stabilizers 638 are shown, it should be understood that a single outrigger or stabilizer can be used, or that the tilt biasing mechanism can be incorporated into any other structure of the exercise bicycle 610 to bias the exercise bicycle 610 toward the vertical position.

[0188] Figures 19-24 An embodiment of the present application is shown in which a bicycle B is engaged with and supported by a trainer 652 that includes the movable feature of the present application. In this embodiment, the movable support is incorporated directly into the structure of the trainer 652. The trainer 652 is shown in the form of a direct drive trainer, however, it should be understood that a wheel trainer can also be employed. The trainer 652 includes a flywheel 654 that is adapted to rotate in response to power input to the trainer 652 effected by rotation of the pedals of the bicycle B in a known manner. A resistance providing device, such as an electromagnetically controlled resistance mechanism, can be employed to selectively resist rotation of the flywheel 654. The flywheel 654 can be contained within a suitable housing or other enclosure.

[0189] The trainer 652 includes a central mounting portion 656 that supports the flywheel 654, and a pair of stabilizers 658 that extend outwardly from the central mounting portion 656 in opposite directions. A central base support member 660 extends forwardly from the front end of the central mounting portion 656. The central base support member 660 can be provided with a wheel mount 662 on which the front wheel of the bicycle B is supported. The front end of the central base support member 660 includes a front engagement region 664 that includes an arcuate ribbed track member 666 having the structure and configuration as previously described. A similar arcuate ribbed track member is interconnected to and underlies the rear end of the base support member 660.

[0190] The trainer 652 also includes a base assembly 668 on which the bottom support member 660 is positioned. The base assembly 668 includes a central axial base member 670 positioned on the underside of the bottom support member 660. The base assembly 668 also includes a pair of plates 672 extending outwardly in opposite directions from the rear end of the base member 670. As previously described, the plates 672 are positioned beneath the stabilizers 658 and a stabilizer guide 674 is secured to the outer end of each plate 672. As also previously described, the end of each stabilizer 658 is positioned within a guide channel defined by the stabilizer guide 674 and is movable therein in a fore and aft direction. The base assembly 668 also includes a pair of brackets positioned at each of the engagement regions of the bottom support member 660. The front bracket of the pair is designated by 676 and a similarly configured rear bracket is secured to the rear end of the base member 670. A grooved roller (designated by 678) is rotatably mounted on each bracket (e.g., 676).

[0191] In a manner similar to that previously described, any axial or longitudinal forces applied to the bicycle B during use and borne by the mounting portion 656 and the bottom support member 660 result in axial fore and aft movement of the bottom support member 660 relative to the base assembly 668 by movement of the track members (e.g., 666) on the grooved rollers (e.g., 678). Also, the curved configuration of the track members (e.g., 666) provides for biasing of the support member 660 under the influence of gravity to bias the bicycle B toward an axial mid-position. Any lateral or side forces applied to the bicycle B during use result in tilting of the bottom support member 662 relative to the base assembly 668 by rotation of the central bead region of each track (e.g., 666) on the rollers (e.g., 678) of the support tracks. This tilting or leaning movement of the bottom support member 660 is transmitted to the bicycle B and experienced by the user. As previously described, a tilt biasing mechanism is provided between each stabilizer 658 and the underlying plate 672 to bias the bicycle B toward a vertical or tilted mid-position. Also, while a pair of outriggers or stabilizers 658 are shown, it will be appreciated that a single outrigger or stabilizer can be used or that a tilt biasing mechanism can be incorporated into any other structure of the trainer 652 to bias the trainer 652 toward a vertical position.

[0192] Figures 50-52 Another embodiment of the movable exercise equipment support of the present application is shown and generally designated by 786 on which a bicycle B and a trainer (not shown) can be supported. As in the previously described embodiment, the trainer with which the bicycle B is engaged can be a wheel-type trainer or a direct drive trainer of the type known.

[0193] The overall composition and structure of the portable exercise equipment support 786 are the same as those described above. Figures 53-57 The movable exercise equipment stand 200 shown is... Figures 19-24 The movable exercise equipment stand 700 shown has a similar composition and construction. In this respect, the movable exercise equipment stand 786 generally includes a base portion 788 and a platform portion 790. As described above, the platform portion 790 is axially movable relative to the base portion 788 in the fore-and-aft direction in response to a longitudinal force applied to the movable exercise equipment stand 76 by the operation of the bicycle B. The platform portion 790 also tilts left and right in response to a force applied to the bicycle B that is eccentric relative to the longitudinal axis of the movable exercise equipment in the stand 786. However, the movable exercise equipment stand 786 differs from the aforementioned embodiments in that the tilting and biasing bracket assembly incorporated in the movable exercise equipment stand (e.g., 200, 700) is replaced by a pair of cylinder assemblies 792 located on both sides of the movable exercise equipment stand 76. The cylinder assemblies 792 are located between the rear of the platform portion 790 and the rear of the base portion 788 below, and in the illustrated embodiment are fixed to and supported by the rear of the platform portion 790. Each cylinder assembly 792 includes a cylinder body 794 and a telescopic rod 796. A roller 798 is fixed to the end of each rod 796, and the roller 798 engages with a mating surface or track 800 on the rear of the base portion 788, as described above. The cylinder assembly 792 may be in the form of a hydraulic cylinder; however, it should be understood that a pneumatic cylinder, stepper motor, or any other linear or rotary actuator may also be used. The cylinder assemblies 792 are hydraulically coupled together such that, in response to lateral or longitudinal eccentric forces applied to the bicycle B or borne by the movable exercise equipment support 786, the cylinder assemblies 792 move up and down at the same speed but in opposite directions. Therefore, the cylinder assembly 792 controls the left-right tilting movement of the platform portion 790 relative to the base portion 788, and the rod 796 is biased outward in a known manner to achieve a tilt bias that tends to bring the sum of forces closer to or across the tilt axis in the vertical direction.

[0194] A force sensor 802 is disposed on top of each cylinder 794 and abuts against the lower side of the platform portion 790. Each force sensor 802 is interconnected with a hydraulic controller, which in turn is interconnected with each cylinder assembly 792. With this arrangement, when the downward force applied to a first side of the bicycle B exceeds the upward force applied to a second side of the bicycle B (e.g., ...), ... Figures 24a-24iAs shown in F), sensor 802 determines that a greater force is applied to the first side of bicycle B. The algorithm in the hydraulic controller then calculates the required tilt angle of platform section 790 based on the magnitude of force F, and the controller instructs the cylinder actuator to operate the cylinder assembly 792 on the first side of bicycle B to extend the cylinder rod 796, and to move the platform section 790 on the first side of bicycle B upward by the required amount based on the magnitude of force F. By overcoming the pedal force F in this way and tilting bicycle B upward, the center of force moves back towards the pivot axis to stabilize the system, simulating the conditions experienced by the bicycle during real-world operation in outdoor conditions.

[0195] The response speed of the cylinder assembly 792 or other actuators can be correlated with the rider's virtual speed. Furthermore, the system can be controlled by an internal or standalone computer via wired or wireless signals.

[0196] Therefore, it should be understood that the present invention provides a movable support device for exercise equipment, which firstly enables axial forward and backward movement of the exercise equipment to provide a realistic feel during operation. The axial movement of the exercise equipment can be combined with lateral or tilting movements to further enhance the realism experienced by the user during operation. The movable support can be separate from the exercise equipment, so that the exercise equipment is independent of and placed on the movable support. Alternatively, the movable support can be integrated into the structure of the exercise equipment itself.

[0197] exist Figure 56 Another embodiment of the structure incorporating a movable support into the exercise equipment itself is shown, wherein the movablely supported exercise equipment (generally indicated by 804) includes a stationary bicycle-type exercise equipment 806 (hereinafter referred to as bicycle 806) movably supported on a base 808. It should be understood that the exercise equipment incorporated into the movablely supported exercise equipment 804 is not limited to devices such as stationary bicycles, and may be any type of stationary exercise equipment to which a user can apply repetitive or cyclical forces during operation.

[0198] In one representative embodiment, the base 808 of the moveably supported exercise apparatus 804 is adapted to be placed on a support surface (e.g., a floor) and includes a longitudinally extending central lower support member 810 and a transversely extending front support member 811 that cooperate to form a generally T-shaped lower support frame of the base 808. A pair of inwardly inclined front support posts 812, 814 extend upwardly from the ends of the front support member 811 and cooperate in a manner to be described hereinafter to form a front support frame of the bicycle 806. A rear support post 816 extends upwardly from a rear end of the central lower support member 810 and forms a rear support frame of the bicycle 806 in a manner also to be described hereinafter. A pair of foldable outrigger supports 818 are pivotally mounted to a rear bracket 820 that is fixed to the rear of the base 810 at the interconnection of the central lower support member 810 and the rear support post 816. The outrigger supports 818 are movable between an operative extended position, as shown, in which they provide lateral stability to the moveably supported exercise apparatus 804, and a retracted or inward position in which the outrigger supports 818 are positioned adjacent the central lower support member 810 to reduce the footprint of the exercise apparatus 804 for transport and storage. It should be understood, however, that the described details of the base 808, including the moveable outrigger supports 818, are exemplary of any number and configuration of support members that can be used to provide stable support for the bicycle 806 during use.

[0199] The bicycle 806, which is movably supported on the base 808, generally includes a frame assembly to which a user support and input components are mounted. In the illustrated embodiment, the user support and input components include a saddle or seat 822, handlebars 824, and a pedal-type input device 826. The saddle 822 is supported by a seat tube 828, which forms part of the frame assembly of the bicycle 806. The position of the saddle 822 is adjustable in a known manner using a height adjustment member 830, which is telescopically engaged with the seat tube 828, and a fore-aft longitudinal adjustment member 832, which is fixed to an upper end of the height adjustment member 830 to which the saddle 822 is adjustably secured. Similarly, the handlebars 824 are supported by a head tube 834, which forms part of the frame assembly of the bicycle 806. The position of the handlebars 824 is adjustable in a known manner using a height adjustment member 836, which is telescopically engaged with the head tube 834, and a fore-aft longitudinal adjustment member 838, which is fixed to an upper end of the height adjustment member 836 to which the handlebars 824 are adjustably secured. The pedal-type input device 826 includes a set of pedals (not shown) upon which a user's feet can be placed, and a pair of crank arms 840, which during operation transmit torque to a resistance mechanism (generally indicated by 842) mounted on the frame of the bicycle 806. Typically, the crank arms 840 are connected to an input ring or gear, and a drive member (e.g., a chain or belt) rotates a flywheel associated with the resistance mechanism in response to the user's applied pedaling force. The resistance mechanism 842 can be any suitable type of resistance mechanism that provides an adjustable resistance to the user's applied pedaling force. Examples include, but are not limited to, fluidic, mechanical, magnetic, electric, or electromechanical resistance mechanisms, although any type of resistance mechanism can be employed.

[0200] In addition to the seat tube 828 and the head tube 834, the frame of the bicycle 806 includes top and bottom frame members 844, 846, respectively, which extend between and interconnect the seat tube 828 and the head tube 834. In the illustrated embodiment, the resistance mechanism 842 is secured to the frame of the bicycle 806 within an area defined by the seat tube 828, the head tube 834, and the top and bottom frame members 844, 846, respectively, although any other satisfactory configuration can be employed.

[0201] The bicycle 806 also includes a front support assembly 848 extending forwardly from the head tube 834 and a rear support assembly 850 extending rearwardly from the seat tube 828. The front support assembly 848 includes an arcuate upper support member 852, a front strut member 854 extending downwardly from a forward end of the upper support member 852, and a centering guide member 856 extending between a lower end of the front strut member 854 and a lower end of the head tube 834. The arcuate upper support member 852 is movably supported by upper ends of the front struts 812, 814 in a manner to be described hereinafter. The centering guide member 856 assists in biasing the bicycle 806 toward the upright position during operation, as will be described hereinafter. The rear support assembly 850 includes an arcuate lower support member 858 supported by upper ends of the rear struts 816 in a manner to be described hereinafter. The rear support assembly 850 also includes an upper strut member 860 extending between a rear end of the arcuate lower support member 858 and the seat tube 828.

[0202] The bicycle 806 is supported on the base 808 in a manner to simulate riding a bicycle in an outdoor environment. Specifically, the bicycle 806 is movable relative to the base 808 in a longitudinal fore-aft direction, as well as in a tilting or side-to-side manner. Fore-aft and tilting centering devices respectively bias the bicycle 806 toward the fore-aft and tilting center positions relative to the base 808.

[0203] As shown in Figs. 62 and 64, a bracket 862 is secured between the upper ends of the front struts 812, 814. A front belt slot roller 864 is rotatably mounted within an upwardly facing channel defined by the bracket 862. The arcuate upper support member 852 of the bicycle front support assembly 848 is engaged with the front belt slot roller 864. With this construction, the upper support member 852 is translatable in the fore-aft direction on the front belt slot roller 864. The outer radius of the upper support member 852 is such that the upper support member is receivable in a groove of the front belt slot roller 864, which enables the arcuate upper support member 852 to move on the front belt slot roller 864. As shown in Fig. 62, a retaining bracket 866 is used to retain the arcuate upper support member 852 in engagement with the front belt slot roller 864. Figures 58-75 , 61 As shown in Figs. 62 and 64, a bracket 862 is secured between the upper ends of the front struts 812, 814. A front belt slot roller 864 is rotatably mounted within an upwardly facing channel defined by the bracket 862. The arcuate upper support member 852 of the bicycle front support assembly 848 is engaged with the front belt slot roller 864. With this construction, the upper support member 852 is translatable in the fore-aft direction on the front belt slot roller 864. The outer radius of the upper support member 852 is such that the upper support member is receivable in a groove of the front belt slot roller 864, which enables the arcuate upper support member 852 to move on the front belt slot roller 864. As shown in Fig. 62, a retaining bracket 866 is used to retain the arcuate upper support member 852 in engagement with the front belt slot roller 864. Figure 58 As shown in Fig. 64, a rear belt slot roller 866 is rotatably mounted to the upper ends of the rear struts 816 in a generally similar manner. The arcuate lower support member 858 of the bicycle rear support assembly 850 is engaged with the rear belt slot roller 866. With this construction, the lower support member 858 is translatable in the fore-aft direction on the rear belt slot roller 866. The outer radius of the lower support member 858 is such that the upper support member is receivable in a groove of the rear belt slot roller 866, which enables the arcuate lower support member 858 to move on the rear belt slot roller 866. A retaining bracket 868 is used to retain the arcuate lower support member 858 in engagement with the rear belt slot roller 866.

[0204] As can be seen in the top elevational view, the arcuate upper support member 852 of the front bicycle support assembly 848 and the arcuate lower support member 858 of the rear bicycle support assembly 850 have matching curved configurations, i.e., each has a similar radius of curvature. The curvature of the arcuate upper support member 852 and the curvature of the arcuate lower support member 858 serve to bias the bicycle 806 to a lowered position relative to the base 808 under the influence of gravity. Any axial forward and rearward forces applied to the bicycle 806 during use cause the arcuate upper support member 852 and the arcuate lower support member 858 to move forward and rearward, respectively, on the front and rear belt groove rollers 864, 866 in a manner similar to that described previously. During such movement, the bicycle 806 is slightly raised relative to the base 808 due to the curvature of the arcuate upper support member 852 and the arcuate lower support member 858. In the absence of axial forward and rearward forces applied to the bicycle 806, the arcuate upper support member 852 and the arcuate lower support member 858 cause the bicycle 806 to return to the lowered, equilibrium position relative to the base 808. As also described previously, the matching radius of the arcuate upper support member 852 with the groove of the front belt groove roller 864 and the matching radius of the arcuate lower support member 858 with the groove of the rear belt groove roller 866 allow the bicycle 806 to tilt left and right during use when a tilting force is applied to the bicycle 806.

[0205] As described previously, the centering guide member 856 forms part of a tilt centering device (generally indicated by 870) that is operable to bias the bicycle 806 to a tilt center position relative to the base 808.

[0206] Referring now to Figure 65 and 68 -71, the centering guide member 856 can typically be in the form of a tubular member having an upper wall, a lower wall and a pair of side walls that cooperate to define an internal passage 872. Axially extending slots 874A, 874B are formed in the side walls of the centering guide member 856. It should be understood that while the centering guide member 856 is shown as a tubular member having slotted side walls, any other satisfactory and functionally similar configuration can be employed.

[0207] The tilt centering device 870 also includes a reciprocating member assembly 876 that is constructed and arranged to move axially forward and rearward within the internal passage 872 of the centering guide member 856. A pair of centering cables 878A, 878B are connected to and extend outwardly from the reciprocating member assembly 876 in opposite directions through the slots 874A, 874B in the side walls of the centering guide member 856, respectively.

[0208] As Figure 64 and 62As shown in -64, each of the front pillars 812 and 814 has a hollow interior. In the illustrated embodiment, the front pillar 812 is composed of a channel member 880, and a cover 882 ( Figure 59 The cover 886 may engage with the wall of the channel member 880 to define the interior of the pillar 812. Similarly, the front pillar 814 is composed of the channel member 884, and the cover 886 may engage with the wall of the channel member 884 to define the interior of the pillar 814. Likewise, although the front pillars 812, 814 are shown as channel members with removable covers, it should be understood that any other satisfactory and functionally similar construction may be employed.

[0209] A V-shaped roller 888A is rotatably mounted to a shaft 890A, which extends between and is mounted to the opposing sidewalls of the channel member 880 of the front strut 812. A slot 892A is formed in the rear wall of the channel member 880 near the roller 888A. A centering cable 878A passes through the slot 892A and engages with the V-shaped roller 888A. The end of the centering cable 878A opposite to the reciprocating motion assembly 876 engages with a biasing device. In the illustrated embodiment, the biasing device includes a pair of springs 893A, each spring having its upper end fixed to a suitable mounting bracket or similar component mounted within the upper end of the channel member 880 of the front strut 812. The lower end of each spring 893Aa engages with a plate 894A, which in turn is fixed to the end of the centering cable 878a via a connecting rod 895A.

[0210] Similarly, a V-shaped roller 888B is rotatably mounted on a shaft 890B that extends between and is mounted on the opposing sidewalls of the channel member 884 of the front strut 814. A slot 892B is formed in the rear wall of the channel member 884 near the roller 888B. A centering cable 878B passes through the slot 892B and engages with the V-shaped roller 888B. The end of the centering cable 878B opposite to the reciprocating motion assembly 876 engages with a similar biasing device in the form of a pair of springs 893B, each spring 893B being fixed at its upper part to a mounting bracket or similar component mounted in the upper end of the channel member 884 of the front strut 814. The lower end of each spring 893B engages with a plate 894B, which is in turn fixed to the end of the centering cable 878B by a connecting rod 895B.

[0211] Although the biasing device is shown as a pair of springs, it should be understood that any number of springs may be used, and the biasing device may be any suitable type of biasing device or component that can apply an elastic centering force on the cable (e.g., cable 878A, 878B), not limited to springs.

[0212] Figure 58Typical structural details of the reciprocating assembly 876 are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the reciprocating assembly 876 includes a body 896 defining a series of walls on which a series of wheels or rollers are mounted. The wheels or rollers include a pair of upper horizontal wheels 898, a pair of lower horizontal wheels 900, and a pair of vertical wheels 902. Another set of horizontal wheels 904 are rotatably mounted to the ends of arms 906 that are pivotably secured at their inner ends by a shaft 908 that extends between a pair of walls of the reciprocating assembly body 896. The arms 906 are biased outwardly, for example, by a torsion spring that forces the arms 906 to move in a clockwise direction, tension in the cable 878A, a compression spring, etc. (not shown) (see Figures 68-71 ).

[0213] The reciprocating assembly 876 is disposed within the interior passage 872 of the centering guide member 856 such that the vertical wheels 902 engage and are movable along the bottom wall of the centering guide member 856. The horizontal wheels 898 and 900 engage the side walls of the centering guide member 856 across the slots 874B in the side walls. The horizontal wheels 904 engage the opposite side walls of the centering guide member 856 due to the outward bias of the arms 906 relative to the reciprocating assembly 896. The horizontal wheels 904 traverse the slots 874A in the side walls of the centering guide member 856 that engage the horizontal wheels 904. The inner end of the centering cable 878A is connected to the reciprocating assembly 876 by engagement with the shaft 910 at the outer end of the arms 906. The inner end of the centering cable 878B is engaged with the walls of the reciprocating assembly body 896 by appropriate fittings. As previously described, the centering cable 878A is axially movable within the slots 874A, and likewise the centering cable 878B is axially movable within the slots 874B.

[0214] During operation of the bicycle 806, forward and rearward movement of the bicycle 806 relative to the base 808 causes axial movement of the reciprocating assembly 876 within the passage 872 of the centering guide member 856. This axial forward and rearward movement of the reciprocating assembly 876 causes downward forces to be applied to the outer ends of the centering cables 878A, 878B that tend to stretch the springs 893A, 893B, respectively. The forces applied by the springs 893A, 893B apply tension to the centering cables 878A, 878B, respectively, to help bias the bicycle 806 toward the axial center as a complement to the bias of the bicycle 806 toward the axial center under the influence of gravity caused by the curved configuration of the arcuate upper support member 852 and the arcuate lower support member 858.

[0215] When the bicycle 806 is subjected to a tilting force during use, the bicycle 806 can rock or tip side to side on the grooved rollers 864, 866. For example, refer to Figure 69When the bicycle 806 is tilted such that its upper region is rotated in a counterclockwise direction, the centering guide member 856 moves in a counterclockwise direction, thereby exerting a downward force on the spring 893A, which, due to the elasticity of the spring 893A, forces the centering guide member 856 back toward the center. This movement of the centering guide member 856 back toward the center under the influence of the centering spring 893A is cushioned by the concomitant elongation of the centering spring 893B, which becomes slack during the movement of the centering guide member 856 toward the post 814. Similarly, when the bicycle 806 is tilted such that its upper region is rotated in a clockwise direction, the centering guide member 856 moves in a clockwise direction, thereby exerting a downward force on the spring 893B, which, due to the elasticity of the spring 893B, forces the centering guide member 856 back toward the center. This movement of the centering guide member 856 back toward the center under the influence of the centering spring 893B is cushioned by the concomitant elongation of the centering spring 893A, which becomes slack during the movement of the centering guide member 856 toward the post 812.

[0216] The slots 874A, 874B of the centering guide member accommodate the movement of the centering cables 878A, 878B, respectively, during the forward and rearward movement of the reciprocating assembly 876, and the configuration of the slots 892A, 892B in the walls of the post channel members 880, 884 accommodates such movement of the centering cables 878A, 878B adjacent the V-shaped rollers 888A, 888B, respectively. In this way, during operation of the bicycle 806, the bicycle 806 is simultaneously biased toward the axial forward and rearward center and the tilting center.

[0217] Figure 64 The range of movement of the bicycle 806 relative to the base 808 during operation is shown. For example, Figures 72-75 Forward movement of the bicycle 806 relative to the base 808 is shown. In this position, the arcuate upper bracket 852 is moved forward on the forward belt slot roller 864, and the arcuate lower bracket 858 is moved forward on the rear belt slot roller 866, which causes the bicycle 806 to rise relative to the base 808 above its vertical equilibrium position. The reciprocating assembly 876 is moved to a rearward position within the channel 872 of the centering guide member 856. When the forces tending to move the bicycle 806 toward the forward position are released, the previously mentioned biasing forces tend to return the bicycle 806 to the center of the forward and rearward directions. When forces tending to move the bicycle 806 rearward on the base 808 are applied to the bicycle 806, the bicycle 806 can move toward the rearward position as shown in Figure 72 Figure 72 ​The bicycle 806 moves to the rearward position as shown. In this position, the arc-shaped upper support 852 moves rearward on the front grooved roller 864, and the arc-shaped lower support 858 moves rearward on the rear grooved roller 866, which in turn raises the bicycle 806 relative to the base 808 above its vertical equilibrium position. The reciprocating motion assembly 876 is moved to the forward position within the channel 872 of the centering guide member 856. This is to move the bicycle 806 towards... Figure 73 When the force that moved the bicycle to the rearward position is released, the previously mentioned bias force tends to return the bicycle 806 to the center position in the forward and backward direction. Figure 72 and 75 The tilted position of bicycle 806 relative to base 808 is shown, wherein Figure 74 The counter-clockwise tilt position is shown. Figure 74 Figure 75 The clockwise tilt position is shown. As previously described, during this movement, the tilt centering device 870 serves to force the bicycle 806 to move toward the tilt center position. It should be understood that, as shown, the forward and backward movement and tilting movement of the bicycle 806 relative to the base 808 can occur simultaneously, so that at any given time, the bicycle 806 can be subjected to both forward and backward centering forces and tilt centering forces to provide stability to the user during the operation of the bicycle 806.

[0218] In the illustrated embodiment, the rear tilt axis of bicycle 806 (i.e., at the rear grooved roller 866) is located at a lower height than the front tilt axis of bicycle 806 (i.e., at the front grooved roller 864). This configuration has been found to accurately simulate outdoor riding conditions. That is, both the front and rear tilt axes of bicycle 806 are above the ground, with the front tilt axis higher than the rear tilt axis. This simulates outdoor riding conditions because, when riding outdoors, the rear tilt or pivot axis of a bicycle is typically located lower than the tilt or pivot axis of the bicycle's front steering wheel.

[0219] The direct drive trainer for use in conjunction with the above-described movable exercise equipment support has a number of advantages over previous systems. For example, in the past, in order to reduce peak seat pressure, which has a significant impact on user comfort, previous bicycle trainers either 1) required a large flywheel-type trainer unit to dampen the rider's pedal stroke, or 2) incorporated motion into the trainer, such as allowing left and right or fore and aft tilting motion. In order to dampen the rider's pedal stroke, the direct drive trainer unit shown can quickly change resistance depending on the position of the pedal stroke, producing more resistance at the high torque portion of the user's pedal stroke and less resistance at the dead spots of the user's pedal bicycle. The amount of resistance can be adjusted depending on sensor readings, such as using accelerometer-based cadence sensors, reed switch sensors, position sensors, and other sensors known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Depending on the sensor readings, the resistance can be quickly increased and decreased so as to completely reverse within each pedal stroke. These resistance changes can be calculated depending on a number of factors, including an increase or decrease in torque, an increase or decrease in speed, a positive or negative acceleration of redundancy, an increase or decrease in instantaneous power, or a derivative of power. Similarly, the resistance can be calculated depending on any combination of these factors. For example, the resistance adjustment can be accomplished using an electromagnetic coil, of course, motor controllers, including drivers and brakes, can be similarly used. However, any number of other methods of creating resistance can be similarly employed. For example, these systems can include systems that store the generated power into resistors, systems that dissipate the power through eddy current resistance, and friction-based systems.

[0220] In the past, the two approaches described above were not compatible with each other, primarily because the weight associated with large flywheel-type trainer units resulted in significant gyroscopic stability, which made it difficult to simulate realistic motion during use of the trainer system. However, by utilizing the embodiments described above, the movable direct drive bicycle trainer system can both produce the smooth pedal stroke associated with using a heavy flywheel-type trainer unit, as well as allow the system to realistically move in the form of fore and aft and side to side motion.

[0221] It is to be understood that the present application, as disclosed and defined herein, encompasses all combinations of two or more of the above-described features or features that can be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art from the text and / or drawings. All such different combinations are considered to be various alternative aspects of the application. The embodiments described herein illustrate the best modes presently contemplated of practicing the application and enable others skilled in the art to utilize the application.

[0222] Various additions, modifications and re-arrangements are considered to be within the scope of the application as specifically set forth below in the claims, and the claims are intended to cover all such additions, modifications and re-arrangements.

Claims

1. An exercise machine comprising: a frame configured to support a user; a user input device movably mounted to the frame to enable the user to apply an input force during exercise; and a support device engaged with the frame and supporting the frame above a support surface, wherein the support device is configured to effect movement of the frame in a fore-aft direction in response to the input force applied to the frame by the user; and a mid-position biasing device for biasing the frame toward a fore-aft mid-position and a tilt mid-position; wherein the support device is further configured to effect tilting movement of the frame about a tilt axis extending primarily in the fore-aft direction; wherein the mid-position biasing device includes a first biasing device for biasing the frame toward the fore-aft mid-position and a second biasing device for biasing the frame toward the tilt mid-position; and wherein the frame is engaged with the support device by engagement of a pair of rollers with a pair of support members, wherein the support members and the rollers cooperate to effect fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the support device.

2. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The frame and the user input device comprise a bicycle-type device.

3. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The pair of support members are interconnected with the frame and the pair of rollers are interconnected with the support device.

4. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein, Relative axial fore-aft movement between the support members and the rollers results in movement of the frame in the fore-aft direction and wherein pivotal movement of the support members on the rollers results in tilting movement of the frame about the tilt axis.

5. The exercise apparatus of claim 4 wherein, The pair of support members include a front support member disposed toward a front end defined by the frame and a rear support member disposed toward a rear end defined by the frame, wherein the rear support member and the front support member define the tilt axis which is tilted in a direction from rear to front.

6. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The first biasing device includes an arcuate support member which effects biasing of the frame toward the fore-aft mid-position under the influence of gravity.

7. The exercise apparatus of claim 1 wherein, The support device includes a base and wherein the second biasing device includes a tilt mid-position biasing device interconnected between the base and the frame which applies opposing lateral biasing forces to the frame which urge the frame toward the tilt mid-position.

8. The exercise apparatus of claim 7 wherein, The base includes a pair of laterally spaced-apart support posts, wherein the tilt mid-position biasing device includes a centering guide member interconnected with the frame and positioned between the pair of support posts, a pair of flexible elongate biasing members interconnected with the centering guide member and extending from the centering guide member in laterally opposite directions, and a biasing device associated with each support post, wherein each flexible elongate biasing member is interconnected with one of the biasing devices, wherein the biasing forces applied by the biasing devices bias the centering guide member toward a mid-position corresponding to the tilt mid-position of the frame.

9. The exercise apparatus of claim 8 wherein, The centering guide member defines an axially extending internal passage and wherein the flexible elongate biasing members are interconnected with a reciprocating motion assembly which is movable in the internal passage of the centering guide member to accommodate fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base.

10. The exercise apparatus of claim 8 wherein, Each biasing device includes one or more springs interconnected between one of the support posts and one of the flexible elongate biasing members.

11. An exercise bicycle comprising: a base configured to be placed on a support surface; a frame configured to support a user and including a pedal-type user force input device; a movable support device disposed between the base and the frame to effect movement of the frame relative to the base during use, wherein the movable support device is configured to effect axial fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base and left-right tilting movement of the frame relative to the base; an axial centering device disposed between the base and the frame to bias the frame toward an axial fore-aft mid-position; and a tilting centering device disposed between the base and the frame to bias the frame toward a tilting mid-position; wherein the movable support device includes a pair of axially spaced support members engaged with a pair of axially spaced rollers, wherein relative axial movement between the support members and the rollers causes axial fore-aft movement of the frame relative to the base.

12. The exercise bicycle of claim 11 wherein, relative pivotal movement between the support members and the rollers causes left-right tilting movement of the frame relative to the base.

13. The exercise bicycle of claim 12 wherein, Each support member has an arcuate configuration that effects biasing of the frame relative to the base in an axial fore-aft direction under the influence of gravity.

14. The exercise bicycle of claim 12 wherein, The left-right tilting movement of the frame relative to the base occurs about a front tilting support and a rear tilting support.

15. The exercise bicycle of claim 14 wherein, The front tilting support is at a higher elevation relative to the rear tilting support.

16. The exercise bicycle of claim 14 wherein, The tilting centering device is configured to apply opposing direction lateral forces to the frame at a location below an axis of tilting defined by the front and rear tilting supports, the lateral forces tending to compress the frame toward a tilting mid-position.

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