Adjustable pitch rotor blade fluid dynamics resistance exercise system

Abstract

This disclosure describes devices for providing resistance to an exercise machine. The device can include an actuator; a shaft; and a rotor. The rotor can include a hub configured to rotate about the shaft, and a rotor blade coupled to the hub and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator. The device may be used with an exercise machine, and the device and exercise machine may be implemented in a workout system.

Description

ADJUSTABLE PITCH ROTOR BLADE FLUID DYNAMICS RESISTANCE EXERCISE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 609,949, filed on December 14, 2023 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 510,596, filed on June 27, 2023, both of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to systems and devices for providing resistance to exercise equipment and, more particularly, to a fluid dynamics flywheel resistance system and device employed in exercise equipment.BACKGROUND

[0003] Exercise machines have some type of a resistance mechanism that increases or decreases the amount of effort to perform the exercise. The resistance mechanism takes a variety of forms, from prony brakes to generators, alternators, or fluid movement devices. Fluid movement devices typically consist of fan blades.

[0004] For exercise bicycles and other similar exercise machines, a person exercising typically pedals at a fixed rate or cadence. The cadence is typically between 60 and 100 turns per minute. Because the cadence rate remains relatively constant, the resistance remains the same as the person exercises. With a fan or turbine, the resistance is based upon movement of fluid caused by the fan blades. Use of a fan can provide both resistance and air movement to cool the person exercising. The use of a fan essentially does not wear-out because there are no parts rubbing against each other to cause the resistance from air movement.

[0005] However, the amount of adjustment of workload available to a user with a fixed turbine and even previously developed adjustable turbines is inadequate and results in a demotivating workout experience for the user. There is a need for a more widely adjustable, finely controlled resistance provided to an exercise machine.

[0006] Thus, it is desirable to provide an alternative system for providing resistance to an exercise machine that is able to overcome the above disadvantages.

[0007] Advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the detailed description of the invention hereinbelow.SUMMARY

[0008] An exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a device for providing resistance to an exercise machine. The device can comprise: an actuator; a shaft; and a rotor. The rotor can comprise: a hub configured to rotate about the shaft; and a rotor blade coupled to the hub and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator.

[0009] In any of the embodiments described herein, the device can further comprise a driver configured to drive the hub to rotate about the shaft.

[0010] In any of the embodiments described herein, the driver comprises a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to an exercise machine.

[0011] In any of the embodiments described herein, the exercise machine can be selected from the group consisting of an exercise bike, a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine, strength training machine, and a combination thereof.

[0012] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotor blade can be one of a plurality of rotor blades coupled to the hub.

[0013] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator comprises a lever, button, switch, slide, pedal, or knob.

[0014] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator can be configured to be actuated by a user while the user uses the exercise machine or while the exercise machine is stationary (e.g., between workouts or during a resting period).

[0015] In any of the embodiments described herein, the device can further comprise: a pitch control collector configured to rotate about the shaft; and a collector collar configured to move longitudinally along the shaft and to push the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft. The actuator, responsive to the actuation thereof, can be configured to provide the movement of the collector collar longitudinally along the shaft.

[0016] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotor blade can be further configured to change pitch responsive to movement of the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft relative to the hub.

[0017] In any of the embodiments described herein, the device can further comprise a control linkage coupling the pitch control collector to the rotor blade.

[0018] Another exemplary embodiment of the present invention provides a workout system which can comprise: an exercise machine; an actuator; a shaft; and a rotor. The rotor can comprise: a hub configured to rotate about the shaft; and a rotor blade coupled to the hub and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator.

[0019] In any of the embodiments described herein, the system can further comprise a driver configured to drive the hub to rotate about the shaft.

[0020] In any of the embodiments described herein, the driver comprises a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to an exercise machine.

[0021] In any of the embodiments described herein, the exercise machine can be selected from the group consisting of an exercise bike, a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine, strength training machine, and a combination thereof.

[0022] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotor blade can be one of a plurality of rotor blades coupled to the hub.

[0023] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator comprises a lever, button, switch, slide, pedal, or knob.

[0024] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator can be configured to be actuated by a user while the user uses the exercise machine or while the exercise machine is stationary (e.g., between workouts or during a resting period).

[0025] In any of the embodiments described herein, the system can further comprise: a pitch control collector configured to rotate about the shaft; and a collector collar configured to move longitudinally along the shaft and to push the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft. The actuator, responsive to the actuation thereof, can be configured to provide the movement of the collector collar longitudinally along the shaft.

[0026] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotor blade can be further configured to change pitch responsive to movement of the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft relative to the hub.

[0027] In any of the embodiments described herein, the system can further comprise a control linkage coupling the pitch control collector to the rotor blade.

[0028] These and other aspects of the present invention are described in the Detailed Description below and the accompanying figures. Other aspects and features of embodiments of the present invention will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reviewing the following description of specific, exemplary embodiments of the present invention in concert with the figures. While features of the present invention may be discussed relative to certain embodiments and figures, all embodiments of the present invention can include one or more of the features discussed herein. Further, while one or more embodiments may be discussed as having certain advantageous features, one or more of such features may also be used with the various embodiments of the invention discussed herein. In similar fashion, while exemplary embodiments may be discussed below as device, system, or method embodiments, it is to be understood that such exemplary embodiments can be implemented in various devices, systems, and methods of the present invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0029] The following detailed description of specific embodiments of the disclosure will be better understood when read in conjunction with the appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the disclosure, specific embodiments are shown in the drawings. It should be understood, however, that the disclosure is not limited to the precise arrangements and instrumentalities of the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates a side view of a device for providing resistance to an exercise machine, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of a workout system which includes an exercise bike, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] FIGS. 3A-3F illustrate different views of a mechanism for adjusting the pitch of one or more rotor blades in an exercise machine, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIG. 4 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

[0034] FIG. 5A illustrates a front-perspective view of a workout system having the rotor blades at maximum pitch for high resistance load, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 5B illustrates a front-perspective view of a workout system having the rotor blades at minimum pitch for low resistance load, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 6A illustrates an enlarged partial view of the workout system shown in FIG. 5A.

[0037] FIG. 6B illustrates an enlarged partial view of the workout system shown in FIG. 5B.

[0038] FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 1 having four rotor blades.

[0039] FIG. 8 illustrates a side view of the device shown in FIG. 7.

[0040] FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the device shown in FIG. 7, along with additional components of an actuator.

[0041] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a workout system which includes a treadmill exercise machine, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a workout system which includes a chestrow press pull exercise machine, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0043] To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the present disclosure, various illustrative embodiments are explained below. The components, steps, and materials described hereinafter as making up various elements of the embodiments disclosed herein are intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many suitable components, steps, and materials that would perform the same or similar functions as the components, steps, and materials described herein are intended to be embraced within the scope of the disclosure. Such other components, steps, and materials not described herein can include, but are not limited to,similar components or steps that are developed after development of the embodiments disclosed herein.

[0044] It must be noted that, as used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. For example, reference to a component is intended also to include composition of a plurality of components. References to a composition containing “a” constituent is intended to include other constituents in addition to the one named. In other words, the terms a, an, and the do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item.

[0045] As used herein, the term “and / or” may mean “and,” it may mean “or,” it may mean exclusive-or” it may mean “one,” it may mean “some, but not all,” it may mean “neither,” and / or it may mean “both. ” The term “or” is intended to mean an inclusive “or. ”

[0046] Also, in describing the exemplary embodiments, terminology will be resorted to for the sake of clarity. It is intended that each term contemplates its broadest meaning as understood by those skilled in the art and includes all technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. It is to be understood that embodiments of the disclosed technology may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures, and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description. References to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “example embodiment,” “some embodiments,” “certain embodiments,” “various embodiments,” etc. , indicate that the embodiment(s) of the disclosed technology so described may include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but not every embodiment necessarily includes the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Further, repeated use of the phrase “in one embodiment” does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, although it may.

[0047] Ranges may be expressed herein as from “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” one particular value and / or to “about” or “approximately” or “substantially” another particular value. When such a range is expressed, other exemplary embodiments include from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Further, the term “about” means within an acceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e. , the limitations of the measurement system. For example, “about” can meanwithin an acceptable standard deviation, per the practice in the art. Alternatively, “about” can mean a range of up to ±20%, preferably up to ±10%, more preferably up to ±5%, and more preferably still up to ± 1 % of a given value. Alternatively, particularly with respect to biological systems or processes, the term can mean within an order of magnitude, preferably within 2- fold, of a value. Where particular values are described in the application and claims, unless otherwise stated, the term “about” is implicit and in this context means within an acceptable error range for the particular value.

[0048] Ranges: throughout this disclosure, various aspects of the disclosure can be presented in a range format. It should be understood that the description in range format is merely for convenience and brevity and should not be construed as an inflexible limitation on the scope of the disclosure. Accordingly, the description of a range should be considered to have specifically disclosed all the possible subranges as well as individual numerical values within that range. For example, description of a range such as from 1 to 6 should be considered to have specifically disclosed subranges such as from 1 to 3, from 1 to 4, from 1 to 5, from 2 to 4, from 2 to 6, from 3 to 6 etc. , as well as individual numbers within that range, for example, 1, 2, 2. 7, 3, 4, 5, 5. 3, and 6. This applies regardless of the breadth of the range.

[0049] By “comprising” or “containing” or “including” is meant that at least the named component, element, or method step is present in the system, device, or method, but does not exclude the presence of other elements, components, or method steps, even if the other such compounds, material, particles, method steps have the same function as what is named.

[0050] The variable / adjustable pitch resistance (VPR) fluid (gas (e.g., air) or liquid (e.g., water)) displacement device / system described herein can transform the way a user trains, elevating his / her fitness journey to unprecedented heights. The VPR system offers an expansive resistance and power spectrum range, allowing a user to unlock his / her full potential that was previously difficult or even impossible to achieve.

[0051] With VPR, a user can experience a whole new level of versatility. They can exercise / train / workout with minimal air resistance for lightning- fast movements or ramp up the resistance for intense, high-force workouts. The user can therefore explore the vast range of training options across the power spectrum, whether aiming for explosive speed or brute strength, for example.

[0052] Conventional Air Displacement exercise equipment is already popular and widely used in training ergometers due to its unique advantage of automatically providing accommodating resistance in response to changing movement speed and resulting flywheel speed. Furthermore, unlike all conventional friction and magnetic resistance systems, air displacement resistance uniquely and positively increases flywheel inertia in response to increasing flywheel speed.

[0053] To a very limited extent, the resistance range capability of some conventional air displacement ergometers can be improved somewhat with the addition of an adjustable air vent to allow for a variation in air availability to the flywheel, thereby changing the air resistance drag factor.

[0054] With the revolutionary VPR fluid displacement system, training rises to a whole new level by providing an exponentially greater resistance and power spectrum range that facilitates training options across a massively wide power spectrum range, with the option to train with extremely low air resistance for very low load / force or very high speed training, as well as the ability to also utilize extremely high air resistance for very high load / force and / or low cadence training.

[0055] This VPR technology changes the pitch angle of exercise equipment rotors (also referred to as a flywheel, fan or turbine), relative to the flywheel hub direction of movement. The changing rotor blade pitch angle changes the angle of attack and fluid dynamics interacting with the moving flywheel, exponentially increasing the range of air being displaced and the subsequent potential work resistance.

[0056] With conventional air resistance flywheels, there is already a cubed relationship between flywheel speed and the power required to facilitate that change in speed. Thus, for example, doubling the speed of a conventional air resistance flywheel requires an eightfold increase in power (2x2x2=8).

[0057] However, with VPR technology, above and beyond this normal cubed effect, the power required to move the flywheel changes dramatically even without changing the flywheel speed, simply by changing the pitch of the flywheel rotors and thereby changing the frontal surface area of the rotors that is now working against air resistance.

[0058] With zero pitch and only the thin leading edge of the flywheel rotors creating air resistance, the amount of power required to move the flywheel is absolutely minimal. But asthe pitch of the flywheel rotors increases, a higher total surface area is pushing air, thereby requiring increasing power to maintain even the same flywheel speed.

[0059] On VPR ergometers, within typical workout speed and load parameters, even at a given fixed flywheel speed, up to 10 to 30 times more power is required to move the flywheel at maximal versus minimum flywheel pitch positions, depending on the given constant flywheel speed of movement.

[0060] When the normal cubed relationship of power to speed of air movement dynamics is taken into account, if the flywheel speed in VPR ergometers is doubled, instead of an increase in required power by a multiple of just 8, the additional power required may potentially increase by multiples of well over 200.

[0061] Accordingly, VPR technology facilitates the ability to work with both much lower and massively higher resistance loads than are normally available to the user on conventional air displacement exercise equipment. This, therefore, effectively provides the means to both find the most effective and efficient power production ‘sweet spot’, as well as also giving a user the scope to train at the extreme ends of the power, force and speed spectrums, to most effectively target and train both speed and force components of the power matrix.

[0062] This means that on the same machine, it’s possibly to do extremely high speed work (or cater to users requiring very low exercise loads) and at the same time have available extremely heavy loads to cater to even the biggest, strongest athletes, or alternatively facilitate low speed work at high loads (similar to riding a bike at a very low cadence up a very steep hill).

[0063] VPR allows the user to find the optimal resistance load at whatever workout cadence they choose. For example, most competitive cyclists pedal most efficiently at a pedaling cadence of 80 to 100 rpm and VPR technology facilitates that perfectly at any fitness level (from absolute beginner to world class athlete), no matter how large or small the cyclist is. VPR also allows the user to adjust the load to perfectly simulate the feel of hill riding, no matter what their body weight is.

[0064] Whilst to a very limited degree this is arguably possible in a sense with other various forms of friction and magnetic resistance, an enormous difference is that with those alternative forms of workload resistance, as the resistance increases, inertia (momentum) proportionally decreases. This is both psychologically and physiologically draining andperceptually extremely de-motivating and frustrating. But with VPR fluid dynamics resistance, a user is able to increase the workout load as much as they want and not lose any inertia, thereby dramatically enhancing the feel of the exercise movement. The weighted flywheel rotor tips and high flywheel gear ratio on VPR-equipped machines will even further enhance the inertia and positive feedback-loop feel. The harder a user exercises, the better they feel and the more they want to keep going. Thus, better results for everyone are achieved, with less perceived effort.

[0065] See Table 1 below for comparisons of typical workout example power ranges on VPR Cycle Ergometers (VPR and VPR+ models) vs a Concept2 BikeErg and a WattBike. In Table 1, standard "VPR" version uses two adjustable pitch flywheel rotors / blades and advanced "VPR+" version uses four adjustable pitch flywheel rotors / blades.Table 1. VPR Cycle vs. Concept2 (C2) BikeErg and WattBike Pro minimum and maximum power (Watts) comparisons

[0066] FIG. 1 shows a side view of a device 100 for providing resistance to an exercise machine. Also, with reference to FIG. 4, the device 100 can comprise: an actuator 10 (including rod 16); a shaft 20 which is fixed (i.e., it does not rotate); and a rotor 30. The rotor 30 can comprise: a hub 32 configured to rotate about the shaft 20; and a rotor blade 34 coupled to the hub 32 and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator 10. In one embodiment, the device can further comprise: a pitch control collector 44 configured to rotate about the shaft 20; and a collector collar 40 configured to move longitudinally along the shaft20 and to push the pitch control collector 44 longitudinally along the shaft. The pitch control collector 44 slides longitudinally along shaft 20, and spins on shaft 20. Whereas, the collector collar 40 also slides longitudinally along shaft 20, but does not spin on shaft 20. The actuator 10, responsive to the actuation thereof, can be configured to provide the movement of the collector collar 40 longitudinally along the shaft 20. The rotor blade 34 can be further configured to change pitch responsive to movement of the pitch control collector 44 longitudinally along the shaft 20 relative to the hub 32. The device 100 can further comprise a control linkage 46 coupling the pitch control collector 44 to the rotor blade 34.

[0067] Changing the pitch of the rotor blade(s) changes the magnitude of air resistance generated by the rotation of the rotor 30, and the change in magnitude is nonlinear. By changing the pitch of the rotor blade(s) 34, the resistance workload on a user of the device 100 can be varied independently of the cadence.

[0068] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a workout system 1000. The workout system 1000 can include a user input device (i.e., an exercise machine 150 such as an exercise bike having pedals), an actuator 10 (including lever 12 and cable 14), a shaft, and a rotor such as the one previously described with respect to FIG. 1 above. In FIG. 2, the rotor is disposed in a cage that allows airflow but protects the user from the rotating rotor blade(s).

[0069] In any of the embodiments described herein, the device can further comprise a driver 38a (shown in FIG. 4 as a belt) configured to drive the hub 32 to rotate about the shaft 20.

[0070] In any of the embodiments described herein, the driver comprises a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to an exercise machine. Other tethering connection mechanisms may alternatively be contemplated for the driver.

[0071] In any of the embodiments described herein, the exercise machine can be selected from the group consisting of an exercise bike, a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine, strength training machine, and a combination thereof.

[0072] In any of the embodiments described herein, the rotor blade can be one of a plurality of rotor blades coupled to the hub. Therefore, there can be any number of rotor blades employed.

[0073] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator comprises a lever, button, switch, slide, pedal, or knob.

[0074] In any of the embodiments described herein, the actuator can be configured to be actuated by a user while the user uses the exercise machine or while the exercise machine is stationary (e.g., between workouts or during a resting period).

[0075] In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the actuator 10 (which may also be referred to as a collective pitch controller) is configured to move the collector collar 40 along the shaft 20. With reference also to FIG. 9, the actuator 10 in FIG. 2 includes a lever 12 (or lever arm) which is ultimately coupled to the collector collar 40 via a cable 14 in a cable sheath, cable / rod linkage 15, and rod 16. Again with reference to FIG. 9, the cable 14 is coupled to the rod 16 via cable / rod linkage 15. In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the actuator 10 can be configured to be actuated by a user while the user exercises on the exercise machine. For example, the lever 12 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 2 can be accessed and operated by the user while the user is pedaling the exercise bike 150. The system can include preset position stops for the actuator that correspond to commonly used resistance settings.

[0076] In any of the embodiments disclosed herein, the device can further include a sensor configured to detect information relating to motion of the rotor. The sensor can be integrated with a computing environment including a computing system including a memory and one or more processors. Instructions may be read into the system memory from another computer readable medium, such as a hard disk or a removable media drive. Datastore contents and data files may be encrypted to improve security. The one or more processors may also be employed in a multi-processing arrangement to execute one or more sequences of instructions contained in the system memory. In alternative embodiments, hard-wired circuitry may be used in place of or in combination with software instructions. Thus, embodiments are not limited to any specific combination of hardware circuitry and software.

[0077] The computer system may include at least one computer readable medium or memory for holding instructions and for containing data structures, tables, records, or other data described herein. The term “computer readable medium” as used herein refers to any medium that participates in providing instructions to the one or more processors for execution. A computer readable medium may take many forms including, but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-limiting examples of non-volatile media include optical disks, solid state drives, magnetic disks, and magneto-optical disks, such ashard disks or removable media drives. Non-limiting examples of volatile media include dynamic memory. Non-limiting examples of transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics. Transmission media may also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during radio wave and infrared data communications.

[0078] The computer system may operate in a networked environment using logical connections to one or more user devices, which may include a personal computer (laptop or desktop), a mobile device, a server, a router, a network PC, a peer device or other common network node, and typically includes many or all of the elements described above relative to the computer system. When used in a networking environment, the computer system may include a modem or establishing communications over a network, such as the Internet. The modem may be connected to a bus via user network interface, or via another appropriate mechanism.

[0079] The network may be any network or system generally known in the art, including the Internet, an intranet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a direct connection or series of connections, a cellular telephone network, or any other network or medium capable of facilitating communication between computer system and other computers. The network may be wired, wireless or a combination thereof. Wired connections may be implemented using Ethernet, Universal Serial Bus (USB), RJ-11 or any other wired connection generally known in the art. Wireless connections may be implemented using Wi-Fi, WiMAX, and Bluetooth, infrared, cellular networks, satellite or any other wireless connection methodology generally known in the art. Additionally, several networks may work alone or in communication with each other to facilitate communication in the network.

[0080] The user device can be computer system can be integrated withing the workout system or can be a separate device, such as a mobile phone belonging to the user. In this example, the mobile phone can be configured to receive signals from the sensor and can display the signals and information gleaned therefrom in a manner readable to the user, namely via graphs, animations, and the like within a mobile application. For example, the sensor can output signals related to the workload and cadence, and the system can display a graph showing the same on the user device. The user device via the mobile application can provide suggestions to the user to adjust workload / cadence to achieve a more optimal workout, and themobile application can adjust these suggestions over time, for example, in accordance with a training plan for the user.

[0081] FIGS. 3A-3F show different views of mechanisms for adjusting the pitch of one or more rotor blades in an exercise machine. In other words, FIGS. 3A-3F show subcomponents 300 of the device that pitches the rotor blade(s). Generally, the subcomponents function similar to swash plates (but without cyclic control of the rotor) of rotorcraft or variable pitch propellers used in the field of aeronautics, such as those described in US Pat. No. 2,629,567 to Papadakos. As can be seen by comparing FIGS. 3A-3F to FIG. 1, the rotor blade can be removably attached to the rotor. This can allow for the interchanging of various rotor blades having different shapes, lengths, weights, or profiles, and this increases the modularity of the device and allows for varying configurations of resistance, workloads, and inertias available to the user during a workout.

[0082] FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional side view of the device shown in FIG. 1.

[0083] FIG. 5A shows a front-perspective view of a workout system 1000 having the rotor blades 34 at maximum pitch for high resistance load.

[0084] FIG. 5B shows a front-perspective view of a workout system 1000 having the rotor blades 34 at minimum pitch for low resistance load.

[0085] FIG. 6A shows an enlarged partial view of the workout system 1000 shown in FIG. 5A. Cable / rod linkage 15 couples cable 14 to rod 16. The components are also shown in FIG. 4.

[0086] FIG. 6B shows an enlarged partial view of the workout system 1000 shown in FIG. 5B.

[0087] FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the device 200 shown in FIG. 1 having four rotor blades 34. Driver 38b (shown in FIG. 7 as a gear drive) is configured to drive the hub 32 to rotate about the shaft 20.

[0088] FIG. 8 shows a side view of the device 200 shown in FIG. 7.

[0089] FIG. 9 shows a perspective view of the device 200 shown in FIG. 7, along with an actuator.

[0090] FIG. 10 shows a perspective view of a workout system 3000 which includes a device 300 (which can be the same or similar to device 100) and a treadmill (exercise machine)350, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The rotation of the hub may be driven via a driver comprising, for example, a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to a roller (or mechanism coupled thereto) of the treadmill.

[0091] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a workout system 4000 which includes a device 400 (which can be the same or similar to device 100) and a chest-row press pull exercise machine 450, in accordance with another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The rotation of the hub may be driven via a driver comprising, for example, a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to a handle (or mechanism coupled thereto) of the chest-row press pull exercise machine.

[0092] A similar mechanism may also be employed on any type of exercise machine simply by connecting the drive on the hub to drive pedals, levers, handles or bars, in such a way that the rotor dynamic resistance effectively replaces the load normally provided by weight plates, or other type of load / resistance mechanisms.

[0093] A cubed relationship exists between movement speed and resultant power requirements when moving any drag creating object through fluids (including air and water). This relationship and the subsequent forces required to generate increases in speed are exponentially increased through the use of the present remotely adjustable pitch rotor blades, entirely by varying aerodynamic drag, without any increasing frictional resistance and without the need of any sort of gear / ratio changing device, or variable transmission.

[0094] The use of fully adjustable pitch weighted rotor blades on either cardiovascular training ergometers or strength equipment has the critical benefit of increasing inertia at increasing workloads, with increasing momentum at increasing workloads, creating a highly motivating positive reward feedback loop, as opposed to the inverse relationship experienced on traditional electro-magnetic and friction based exercise equipment, which detrimentally makes increasing workloads feel increasingly less rewarding and results in a psychologically demotivating experience.

[0095] As alluded to above, with conventional friction and electromagnetic resistancebased exercise systems, doubling the workout speed at any given resistance load only doubles the exerciser’s workload and doubling the resistance load at any given speed, halves the inertia / momentum. With conventional air displacement systems, doubling the workout speed increases the workload eightfold and doubles the inertia, however with the present adjustablepitch rotor system workloads can potentially very easily increase by a factor of 100, or even much more, almost practically infinitely unlimited, depending on the size of the rotor blades, whilst still doubling the inertia, when simply doubling workload at different rotor blade pitches.

[0096] The advantage of being able to adjust the pitch of the weighted rotor blades is that, contrary to what is possible with conventional air displacement ergometers, this system also gives the user the ability to change their workload to suit their requirements at any given cadence. This allows the user to find the perfect balance of resistance, inertia, and cadence to suit their training needs. It also allows the user to establish their maximum power output in relation to cadence.

[0097] Notably, this also allows for the increase of resistance without increasing the overall diameter of the rotor assembly or the length of the rotor blade(s). Though configurations of the present device can use rotor blade(s) that are also automatically or manually adjustable in length, this is optional.

[0098] The fan / turbine of the VPR device may be manually operated (via rotation of the shaft) by a user of the exercise machine by, for example, pedaling, or other device operable by a user's foot / leg movement while the user is using the exercise machine. Alternatively, fan / turbine of the VPR device may be manually operated by a user of the exercise machine by hand / arm pulling or pushing a bar, paddle, handle, or some other device operable by a user's hand / arm movement while the user is using the exercise machine. As another alternative, other parts (e.g., knee, thigh, elbow, neck, head, shoulder, etc.) of the user's body may manually operate the fan / turbine of the VPR device, while the user is using the exercise machine.

[0099] The actuator described in any of the above embodiments may alternatively be initiated and / or controlled electronically (instead of, for example, a lever) to effect the pitch change of the rotor blades, but would still need mechanical component(s) such as those already described above to effect the pitch change. The mechanical component(s) can be controlled electronically via, for example, an actuator, servo motor, electro magnetically, or solenoid.

[0100] The example method to control the rotor blade pitch in the described above is similar to how a helicopter tail rotor operates. Other methods may be used. For example, a method similar to how wind turbines operate may be used to achieve the same or similar outcome. In one example, each blade can be controlled with its own small motor (electric or hydraulic). Alternatively, each bade can be moved, either individually or collectively, withhydraulics. Another way this can be achieved is by using internal gears within the turbine hub. This could look like a central hypoid crown gear turning pinion gears or a pinion gear turning ring gears within each blade.

[0101] Although embodiments are described above with reference to a VPR device for providing resistance to an exercise bike, the VPR device described in any of the above embodiments may alternatively provide resistance to other exercise systems such as a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine (e.g., kayak machine, canoeing machine, stand-up paddle board machine), strength training machine (e.g., chest-row press pull machine, shoulder-latissimus dorsi (lat) push pull machine), combinations thereof, etc. Such alternatives are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and may therefore utilize the advantages of the configurations and embodiments described above.

[0102] In addition, although embodiments are described above with reference to an actuator comprising a lever-type initiator, the actuator described in any of the above embodiments may alternatively comprise other initiator devices such as a button, switch, slide, pedal, knob, etc. The actuator / initiator may be operated by any part (e.g., leg, foot, knee, thigh, hand, arm, elbow, neck, head, shoulder, etc.) of the user's body, while the user is using the exercise machine. As an example, a user may operate a pedal (or pedals) as an actuator / initiator device(s), in a similar manner to a small plane rudder control. Such alternatives are considered to be within the spirit and scope of the present invention, and may therefore utilize the advantages of the configurations and embodiments described above.

[0103] It is to be understood that the embodiments and claims disclosed herein are not limited in their application to the details of construction and arrangement of the components set forth in the description and illustrated in the drawings. Rather, the description and the drawings provide examples of the embodiments envisioned. The embodiments and claims disclosed herein are further capable of other embodiments and of being practiced and carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting the claims.

[0104] Accordingly, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the conception upon which the application and claims are based may be readily utilized as a basis for the design of otherstructures, methods, and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the embodiments and claims presented in this application. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded as including such equivalent constructions.

[0105] Furthermore, the purpose of the foregoing Abstract is to enable the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the public generally, and especially including the practitioners in the art who are not familiar with patent and legal terms or phraseology, to determine quickly from a cursory inspection the nature and essence of the technical disclosure of the application. The Abstract is neither intended to define the claims of the application, nor is it intended to be limiting to the scope of the claims in any way. Instead, it is intended that the invention is defined by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A device for providing resistance to an exercise machine, the device comprising: an actuator; a shaft; and a rotor comprising: a hub configured to rotate about the shaft; and a rotor blade coupled to the hub and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator.

2. The device of claim 1 further comprising a driver configured to drive the hub to rotate about the shaft.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the driver comprises a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to an exercise machine.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the exercise machine is selected from the group consisting of an exercise bike, a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine, strength training machine, and a combination thereof.

5. The device of claim 1, wherein the rotor blade is one of a plurality of rotor blades coupled to the hub.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the actuator comprises a lever, button, switch, slide, pedal, or knob.

7. The device of claim 3, wherein the actuator is configured to be actuated by a user while the user uses the exercise machine.

8. The device of claim 1 further comprising: a pitch control collector configured to rotate about the shaft; and a collector collar configured to move longitudinally along the shaft and to push the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft; wherein the actuator, responsive to the actuation thereof, is configured to provide the movement of the collector collar longitudinally along the shaft.

9. The device of claim 8, wherein the rotor blade is further configured to change pitch responsive to movement of the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft relative to the hub.

10. The device of claim 9 further comprising: a control linkage coupling the pitch control collector to the rotor blade.

11. A workout system comprising: an exercise machine; an actuator; a shaft; and a rotor comprising: a hub configured to rotate about the shaft; and a rotor blade coupled to the hub and configured to change pitch responsive to actuation of the actuator.

12. The system of claim 11 further comprising a driver configured to drive the hub to rotate about the shaft.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the driver comprises a belt, chain, rope, cord, or gear drive, coupled to an exercise machine.

14. The system of claim 13, wherein the exercise machine is selected from the group consisting of an exercise bike, a treadmill, a sled drive machine, an elliptical machine, a rowing machine, a stair mill, an airdyne, a SkiErg, a stationary ski machine, climbing machine, swimming machine, upper body ergometer, paddle machine, strength training machine, and a combination thereof.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the rotor blade is one of a plurality of rotor blades coupled to the hub.

16. The system of claim 11, wherein the actuator comprises a lever, button, switch, slide, pedal, or knob.

17. The system of claim 11, wherein the actuator is configured to be actuated by a user while the user uses the exercise machine.

18. The system of claim 11 further comprising: a pitch control collector configured to rotate about the shaft; and a collector collar configured to move longitudinally along the shaft and to push the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft; wherein the actuator, responsive to the actuation thereof, is configured to provide the movement of the collector collar longitudinally along the shaft.

19. The system of claim 18, wherein the rotor blade is further configured to change pitch responsive to movement of the pitch control collector longitudinally along the shaft relative to the hub.

20. The system of claim 19 further comprising: a control linkage coupling the pitch control collector to the rotor blade.

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