A shuffling treadmill

Abstract

This utility model discloses a step-crushing machine, relating to the field of fitness equipment. It mainly includes a frame, foot pedals, an adjustable linkage mechanism, and an elastic connector. Both foot pedals are rotatably connected to the frame. The adjustable linkage mechanism is installed on the frame for the coordinated adjustment of the two foot pedals. One end of the elastic connector is connected to one of the foot pedals, and the other end is connected to the other foot pedal. When both foot pedals are not in use, the elastic connector is in its original length or slightly stretched state. This application has the effect of saving material and maintenance costs for the step-crushing machine.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This utility model relates to the field of fitness equipment technology, and in particular to a step-crushing machine. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, the stepper is a fitness device that simulates the action of climbing stairs, primarily used to enhance cardiovascular function, burn fat, and strengthen lower limb muscles. It works by cyclically stepping on the pedals with both feet to simulate climbing stairs, mainly exercising the thighs, calves, glutes, and core muscles, while also improving cardiovascular endurance. Its low-impact characteristics reduce joint stress, making it suitable for rehabilitation training or people with sensitive joints.

[0003] In the prior art, steppers mainly include a frame, foot pedals, hydraulic buffer rods, and an adjustable linkage mechanism. Two foot pedals are coaxially and rotatably mounted to the frame. The adjustable linkage mechanism is mounted to the frame for connecting and adjusting the two foot pedals. The hydraulic buffer rod is mounted on the underside of the foot pedals to provide cushioning resistance.

[0004] However, the hydraulic shock absorber used in traditional pedal machines has the following drawbacks: firstly, the hydraulic shock absorber is prone to oil leakage; secondly, the hydraulic shock absorber itself is expensive. Therefore, improvements are needed. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of the problems existing in the prior art, the purpose of this utility model is to provide a step-crushing machine that can greatly save on the material cost and maintenance cost of the step-crushing machine.

[0006] To solve the above problems, the present invention adopts the following technical solution.

[0007] A step-crushing machine includes a frame, foot pedals, and an adjustable linkage mechanism. Both foot pedals are rotatably connected to the frame. The adjustable linkage mechanism is disposed on the frame for the linkage adjustment of the two foot pedals. It also includes an elastic connector, one end of which is connected to one of the foot pedals, and the other end of which is connected to the other foot pedal or to the frame. When the two foot pedals are not in use, the elastic connector is in its original length or slightly stretched state.

[0008] By adopting the above technical solution, the traditional stepper machine's method of providing resistance through a hydraulic buffer rod is abandoned. Instead, an elastic connector is used. During the relative swinging of the two foot pedals, the elastic connector deforms. The force required for this deformation comes from the force applied by the user to the foot pedals, thus forming the resistance that the user needs to overcome during use. At the same time, the elastic connector can be used to return the two foot pedals to their original position. Through this structural improvement, the expensive hydraulic buffer rod can be eliminated while meeting the required resistance of the stepper machine. A lower-cost elastic material can be selected. According to actual product development calculations, costs can be saved by 30%-50%, and maintenance and replacement are also more convenient.

[0009] In one possible implementation, the two ends of the elastic connector are respectively rotatably connected to the swing tail ends of the two foot pedals.

[0010] By adopting the above technical solution, the elastic connector is placed at the swing end of the two foot pedals. This can reduce the interference or adverse effects of the elastic connector on the swing of the two foot pedals. It can also further reduce the amount of materials, weight and cost required. In addition, it can improve the aesthetics and comfort.

[0011] In one possible implementation, the elastic connector is a metal elastomer, and the elastic connector includes a spring and connecting rods disposed at both ends of the spring, with the ends of the two connecting rods away from the spring respectively rotatably connected to the foot pedals on the corresponding sides.

[0012] By adopting the above technical solution, a metal elastomer is selected as the material for the elastic connector, with a spring being the preferred choice. This is mainly due to the unique physical properties and structural design of the spring, which possesses advantages such as long fatigue life, strong support and stability, efficient energy storage and release, lightweight and energy saving, and low-cost maintenance. These advantages highly meet the requirements of this invention for the elastic connector. The connecting rod facilitates the connection between the spring and the foot pedal, while also improving the connection stability of the spring.

[0013] In one possible implementation, both connecting rods include a limiting part, a connecting part, and a rotating part connected in sequence. The limiting part is spherically engaged with the spring, and the rotating part is rotatably connected to the foot pedal.

[0014] By adopting the above technical solution, the connection between the connecting rod and the spring is realized by utilizing the limiting function of the spherical limiting part. The setting of the rotating part will facilitate the connection between the connecting rod and the foot pedal. During assembly, the limiting part can be pre-embedded in the spring when the spring is rolled up. After the spring is rolled up, the connection and fixation function between the connecting rod and the spring can be realized.

[0015] In one possible implementation, a protective cover is provided on the outside of the elastic connector, the length of which is greater than the maximum tensile length reached by the spring during use, and the two ends of the protective cover are respectively connected to the two foot pedals.

[0016] By adopting the above technical solution, due to the structural characteristics of the spring, the helical pitch changes after the length changes during the deformation process. In order to prevent objects from being trapped in the gap of the spring, a protective cover is installed to wrap and protect the spring, thereby improving safety. At the same time, the two ends of the protective cover are connected to the foot pedal to further improve the installation stability of the protective cover.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the elastic connector is a rubber elastomer, the elastic connector including an elastic rubber element, the two ends of which are respectively connected to the two foot pedals.

[0018] By adopting the above technical solution, rubber elastomer is selected as the material for the elastic connector. Firstly, it is an optional solution. Secondly, it utilizes the advantages of elastic rubber components, such as high elasticity and large deformation capacity, controllable nonlinear characteristics, good weather resistance and chemical stability, wear resistance and long fatigue life, which are highly suitable for the requirements of this utility model for the elastic connector. Therefore, it is also an effective option for this utility model.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the elastic rubber element is arranged in a hollow tubular shape.

[0020] By adopting the above technical solution and hollowing out the elastic rubber component, the overall weight of the elastic rubber component is reduced, and the stress stability is improved.

[0021] In one possible implementation, the elastic connector is a long strip-shaped elastomer, and the elastic connector includes at least one elastic rope, with both ends of each elastic rope connected to the foot pedal on the corresponding side.

[0022] By adopting the above technical solution, selecting a long strip-shaped elastomer as the material for the elastic connector serves two purposes: firstly, as an alternative solution; and secondly, the elastic rope itself possesses advantages such as high cost-effectiveness, high elasticity, and strong fatigue resistance, which are highly compatible with the requirements of this invention for the elastic connector, and thus serve as an effective option for this invention.

[0023] In one possible implementation, a pulley is also provided on the frame, one end of the elastic connector is connected to one of the pedals, and the other end extends around the pulley and is connected to the other pedal, and the elastic connector is in rolling connection with the pulley.

[0024] By adopting the above technical solution, the smoothness of the pulley and the elastic effect of the elastic connector are also effective options for this invention.

[0025] In one possible implementation, two elastic connectors are provided, with one end of each elastic connector connected to the foot pedal and the other end connected to the frame.

[0026] By adopting the above technical solution, in another implementation, elastic connectors can be connected to both foot pedals, which can also reduce costs and facilitate maintenance, and can be used as an optional alternative solution for this utility model.

[0027] Compared with existing technologies, the advantages of this utility model are:

[0028] 1. This design abandons the traditional method of providing resistance through hydraulic buffer bars in steppers. Instead, it employs elastic connectors. During the relative swinging of the two foot pedals, the elastic connectors deform, and the force required for this deformation comes from the force applied by the user to the foot pedals. This forms the resistance the user needs to overcome during use. Simultaneously, the elastic connectors allow the foot pedals to return to their original position. This structural improvement allows for the elimination of expensive hydraulic buffer bars while still meeting the required resistance of the stepper. By choosing lower-cost elastic materials, costs can be reduced by 30%-50% based on actual product development calculations. Furthermore, maintenance and replacement are more convenient.

[0029] 2. Placing the elastic connector at the swing end of the two foot pedals can reduce interference or adverse effects on the foot pedals during swing. It can also further reduce the amount of materials, weight, and cost required. In addition, it can improve the aesthetics and comfort.

[0030] 3. The elastic connector can be selected from springs, elastic rubber parts, and elastic ropes, providing multiple options, strong applicability, and great market potential. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the stepping machine according to Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0032] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the structure of the stepper machine with added protective cover according to Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0033] Figure 3 This is an exploded view of the stepper machine according to Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0034] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the elastic connector of Embodiment 1 of this application;

[0035] Figure 5 This is a top view of the stepper machine according to Embodiment 2 of this application;

[0036] Figure 6 This is a top view of the stepper machine according to Embodiment 3 of this application;

[0037] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the front view of the stepper machine according to Embodiment 4 of this application;

[0038] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram of the front view structure of the stepping machine according to Embodiment 5 of this application.

[0039] Explanation of the labels in the diagram:

[0040] 1. Frame; 2. Foot pedal; 21. Pedal housing; 22. Support frame; 23. Rotating sleeve; 24. Swing arm; 3. Adjustable linkage mechanism; 31. Mounting sleeve; 32. Adjustment knob; 33. Telescopic rod; 34. Fixing frame; 35. Wheel; 36. Pull rope; 4. Elastic connector; 41. Spring; 42. Connecting rod; 421. Limiting part; 422. Connecting part; 423. Rotating part; 5. Limiting rubber pad; 6. Mounting groove; 7. Reinforcing column; 8. Rotating pin; 9. Protective cover; 11. Adapter hole. Detailed Implementation

[0041] This application discloses a step-crushing machine. The following is a description of the accompanying drawings. Figure 1-7 This application will be described in further detail.

[0042] Example 1:

[0043] Reference Figures 1-4 It mainly includes a frame 1, foot pedals 2, an adjustable linkage mechanism 3, and an elastic connector 4. Both foot pedals 2 are rotatably connected to the frame 1. The adjustable linkage mechanism 3 is installed on the frame 1 for the linkage adjustment of the two foot pedals 2. One end of the elastic connector 4 is connected to one of the foot pedals 2, and the other end is connected to the other foot pedal 2. When the two foot pedals 2 are not in use, the elastic connector 4 is in its original length or slightly stretched state. Specifically, the elastic force of the elastic connector 4 in the slightly stretched state is less than 50N.

[0044] The foot pedal 2 includes a pedal housing 21, a support frame 22, a rotating sleeve 23, and a swing arm 24. The pedal housing 21 is fixed to the support frame 22. The rotating sleeve 23 is fixed to one end of the support frame 22 and rotatably connected to the frame 1. A bearing (not shown in the figure) may be fitted inside the rotating sleeve 23. The bearing is fitted onto the rotating shaft of the frame 1. A washer, a retaining ring, and an end cap are also coaxially fixed to the rotating shaft in sequence. The swing arm 24 is fixed to the lower side of the support frame 22. A limiting rubber pad 5 is also fixed to the lower side of the swing tail end of the support frame 22 to protect the foot pedal 2 from impact with the frame 1.

[0045] The adjustable linkage mechanism 3 includes a mounting sleeve 31, an adjustment knob 32, a telescopic rod 33, a fixing frame 34, a wheel 35, and a pull rope 36. The mounting sleeve 31 passes through and is fixed to the frame 1. The mounting sleeve 31 has a mounting groove 6. The adjustment knob 32 is threaded into the mounting groove 6. The telescopic rod 33 is slidably installed into the mounting groove 6. The adjustment knob 32 abuts against the telescopic rod 33. The telescopic rod 33 is fixedly connected to the fixing frame 34. The wheel 35 is rotatably connected to the fixing frame 34. The wheel 35 has an annular groove on its circumference that is rotatably connected to the pull rope 36. The two ends of the pull rope 36 are respectively hinged to the ends of the two foot pedals 2 away from the elastic connecting member 4. In this embodiment, the pull rope 36 is hinged to the end of the swing arm 24 away from the rotation axis. The fixing frame 34 is U-shaped, and the wheel 35 is rotatably mounted inside the fixing frame 34. A reinforcing column 7 is fixed at the opening of the fixing frame 34, and both ends of the reinforcing column 7 are fixedly connected to the fixing frame 34. The distance between the reinforcing column 7 and the outer end of the wheel 35 is less than one-third of the diameter of the pull rope 36. The reinforcing column 7 is used to prevent the pull rope 36 from slipping off. The two foot pedals 2 can be connected and linked through an adjustable linkage mechanism. The tension of the two foot pedals 2 can be controlled by adjusting the control knob 32. The setting of the reinforcing column 7 can strengthen the structural strength of the fixing frame 34 and limit the pull rope 36 on the wheel 35 to prevent slippage.

[0046] Both ends of the elastic connector 4 are rotatably connected to the swing tail ends of the two foot pedals 2. The tail of the support frame 22 is fixed with a rotating pin 8 for the elastic connector 4 to rotate and connect.

[0047] In this embodiment, the elastic connector 4 is made of a metal elastomer. The elastic connector 4 includes a spring 41 and connecting rods 42 disposed at both ends of the spring 41. The ends of the two connecting rods 42 away from the spring 41 are respectively rotatably connected to the corresponding foot pedals 2. In this embodiment, the spring 41 is selected as a tension spring 41. The two foot pedals 2 are initially placed horizontally side by side in the unused state. Each of the two connecting rods 42 includes a limiting part 421, a connecting part 422, and a rotating part 423 connected in sequence. The limiting part 421 is spherically engaged with the spring 41. The rotating part 423 is rotatably connected to the rotating pin 8 of the foot pedal 2. The rotating pin 8 passes through the support frame 22 and is locked by bolts. The rotating part 423 is sleeved on the rotating pin 8, and washers are provided on both sides of its axial direction.

[0048] Furthermore, a protective cover 9 is provided on the outer side of the elastic connector 4. The length of the protective cover 9 is greater than the maximum tensile length reached by the spring 41 during use. The two ends of the protective cover 9 are respectively connected to the two foot pedals 2. In this embodiment, the protective cover 9 can be made of a soft and elastic fabric such as spandex. The two ends of the protective cover 9 are respectively connected to the rotating pins 8 on the two foot pedals 2 and are sleeved on the outside of the rotating part 423 of the connecting rod 42. In another embodiment, the protective cover 9 can also be made of a deformable elastic material such as a silicone sleeve.

[0049] The implementation principle of Example 1 is as follows: The protective cover 9 is installed outside the elastic connector 4, and the two ends of the elastic connector 4 are respectively fixed to the swing tail ends of the two foot pedals 2. The end of the protective cover 9 is sleeved on the outside of the rotating part 423. In use, the knob 32 is adjusted to adjust the two foot pedals 2 to the appropriate position, and the user stands on the two foot pedals to perform simulated exercise.

[0050] Example 2:

[0051] Reference Figure 5 The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the elastic connector 4 is made of rubber elastomer. The elastic connector 4 includes an elastic rubber component, which is cylindrical in shape. Both ends of the elastic rubber component have transition holes 11 that are rotatably connected to the rotating pins 8 of the two foot pedals 2, respectively. Furthermore, the elastic rubber component is hollow, and both ends of the elastic rubber component are rotatably connected to the rotating pins 8.

[0052] The implementation principle of Example 2 is as follows: the difference from Example 1 is that the adapter holes 11 at both ends of the elastic rubber part can be directly installed to the rotating pin 8.

[0053] Example 3:

[0054] Reference Figure 6The difference from Embodiment 1 is that the elastic connector 4 is a long strip-shaped elastic body. The elastic connector 4 includes at least one elastic rope. In this embodiment, three elastic ropes are arranged side by side, and the two ends of each elastic rope are connected to the foot pedal 2 on the corresponding side.

[0055] The implementation principle of Example 3 is as follows: the difference from Example 1 is that each elastic rope is fixed to the rotating pin 8.

[0056] Example 4:

[0057] Reference Figure 7 The difference from Embodiment 1 is that two elastic connectors 4 are provided, one end of each elastic connector 4 is connected to the foot pedal 2, and the other end is connected to the frame 1. The elastic connectors 4 can adopt any of the above-described structures; only one is shown in the accompanying drawings. The difference lies in the number and connection position of the elastic connectors 4.

[0058] The implementation principle of Example 4 is as follows: the difference from Example 1 is that there are two elastic connectors 4, each corresponding to the foot pedal 2.

[0059] Example 5:

[0060] Reference Figure 8 The difference from Embodiment 1 is that a pulley 13 is also provided on the frame 1. The pulley 13 is rotatably mounted on the frame 1 through a fixed bracket. One end of the elastic connector 4 is connected to one of the pedals 2, and the other end extends around the pulley 13 and is connected to the other pedal 2. The elastic connector is in rolling connection with the pulley.

[0061] The implementation principle of Example 5 is as follows: the difference from Example 1 is that the pulley 13 and the elastic connector 4 are combined by rolling.

[0062] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this utility model; however, the protection scope of this utility model is not limited thereto. Any equivalent substitutions or modifications made by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this utility model, based on the technical solution and its improved concept, should be included within the protection scope of this utility model.

Claims

1. A step-crushing machine, comprising a frame (1), foot pedals (2), and an adjustable linkage mechanism (3), wherein both foot pedals (2) are rotatably connected to the frame (1), and the adjustable linkage mechanism (3) is disposed on the frame (1) for linkage adjustment of the two foot pedals (2), characterized in that, It also includes an elastic connector (4), one end of which is connected to one of the foot pedals (2), and the other end of which is connected to the other foot pedal (2) or to the frame (1); when the two foot pedals (2) are in an unused state, the elastic connector (4) is in its original length state or slightly stretched state.

2. The step-crushing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, The two ends of the elastic connector (4) are respectively rotatably connected to the swing tail ends of the two foot pedals (2).

3. A step-crushing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic connector (4) is made of metal elastomer. The elastic connector (4) includes a spring (41) and connecting rods (42) disposed at both ends of the spring (41). The ends of the two connecting rods (42) away from the spring (41) are respectively rotatably connected to the foot pedal (2) on the corresponding side.

4. A step-crushing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, Both connecting rods (42) include a limiting part (421), a connecting part (422), and a rotating part (423) connected in sequence. The limiting part (421) is spherically engaged with the spring (41), and the rotating part (423) is rotatably connected to the foot pedal (2).

5. A step-crushing machine according to claim 3, characterized in that, The elastic connector (4) is provided with a protective cover (9) on its outer side. The length of the protective cover (9) is greater than the maximum tensile length reached by the spring (41) when in use. The two ends of the protective cover (9) are respectively connected to the two foot pedals (2).

6. A step-crushing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic connector (4) is made of rubber elastomer. The elastic connector (4) includes an elastic rubber component, and the two ends of the elastic rubber component are rotatably connected to the two foot pedals (2) respectively.

7. A step-crushing machine according to claim 6, characterized in that, The elastic rubber component is arranged in a hollow tubular shape.

8. A step-crushing machine according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic connector (4) is a long strip-shaped elastic body. The elastic connector (4) includes at least one elastic rope, and both ends of each elastic rope are connected to the foot pedal (2) on the corresponding side.

9. A step-crushing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, A pulley (13) is rotatably mounted on the frame (1). One end of the elastic connector (4) is connected to one of the pedals (2), and the other end extends around the pulley (13) and is connected to the other pedal (2). The elastic connector (4) is in rolling connection with the pulley (13).

10. A step-crushing machine according to claim 1, characterized in that, Two elastic connectors (4) are provided, one end of each elastic connector (4) is connected to the foot pedal (2), and the other end is connected to the frame (1).

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