CN118543067A - Pivoting device for exercise apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A pivoting apparatus for an exercise device. The pivoting means has a first hub for a first movable member of the exercise device and a second hub for a second movable member component of the exercise device. The first hub and the second hub are pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis within a pivot range. The damper is configured to dampen the pivotal movement, wherein the damper has a resilient bumper having an annular shape that is compressed at a first end of the pivot range.

Description

Pivoting device for exercise apparatus

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims priority from U.S. provisional patent application No.63/448525 filed on 2.2023, 27, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to exercise devices, and more particularly to a pivoting apparatus for an exercise device, and an exercise device having a pivoting apparatus with an elastic damper.

Background

The following U.S. patents and publications are incorporated herein by reference.

U.S. patent publication No.2021/0275866 discloses an exercise machine for performing a stride exercise motion. The exercise machine has a stand; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; first and second foot pads on the first and second pedal members, respectively, each of the first and second foot pads being movable along an elliptical path during a stride exercise motion; and first and second rocker arms each having a first end pivotable relative to the bracket about a rocker arm pivot axis and a second end pivotable relative to one of the first and second pedal members about a pedal lever hub axis. The bracket has a first bracket portion and a second bracket portion. The first bracket portion supports the first rocker arm and the second rocker arm and is pivotable relative to the second bracket portion about a bracket pivot axis. The pivoting of the first bracket portion relative to the second bracket portion adjusts the position of the rocker arm pivot axis, thereby changing the shape of the elliptical path.

U.S. patent No.10,946,238 discloses an exercise machine for performing a stride exercise motion. The machine has a stand; a first pedal member and a second pedal member; first and second foot pads on the first and second pedal members, respectively, each of the first and second foot pads configured to move along an elliptical path during a stride exercise motion; first and second rocker arms pivotably coupled to the bracket; and first and second adjustment devices configured to actively adjust and set positions of the first and second pedal members relative to the first and second rocker arms, respectively, to thereby change a shape of the elliptical path.

See also U.S. patent Nos.10,478,665;9,925,412;9,283,425;9,138,614;9,126,078;8,272,997;7,931,566;7,918,766;6,846,272;6,217,486;6,203,474;6,099,439; and 5,947,872.

Disclosure of Invention

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

In a non-limiting example of the present disclosure, an exercise device for performing a stride exercise motion is provided. The exercise device may have a frame, a swing arm pivotally coupled to the frame, a pedal member that pivots with the swing arm relative to the frame, and a pivot arrangement that pivotally couples the pedal member to the swing arm. The pivot device may have a damper configured to dampen a pivotal movement of the pedal member relative to the rocker arm. The pedal member may pivot relative to the rocker arm within a pivot range. The damper may include a resilient bumper that dampens the pivotal movement at a first end of the pivot range. The elastic damper may have an annular shape that is compressed when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range. The elastic buffer may have other shapes.

In a non-limiting example of the present disclosure, the resilient bumper may be coupled to a first one of the rocker arm and the pedal member, and a second one of the rocker arm and the pedal member may engage the resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range. The second of the rocker arm and the pedal member may include an engagement surface that engages the resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range. The resilient bumper may be coupled to a support surface on a first one of the rocker arm and the pedal member. The resilient bumper can have an annular shape that is compressed relative to the support surface when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

In a non-limiting example of the present disclosure, the second of the rocker arm and the pedal member may include an engagement surface that engages the resilient bumper and compresses the annular shape when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range. When the pedal member is pivoted to the first end of the pivot range, the engagement surface may be brought into a position substantially parallel to the support surface. The engagement surface may be brought into a position that is not substantially parallel to the support surface.

In a non-limiting example of the present disclosure, the elastic buffer is a first elastic buffer. The second spring-damper is engaged at a second end of the pivot range. The pivot means may define a pivot axis about which the pedal member is pivotable relative to the rocker arm. The first and second spring bumpers are disposed radially opposite each other relative to the pivot axis.

In a non-limiting example of the present disclosure, a pivoting device is used with an exercise apparatus. The pivoting means comprises a first hub for a first movable member of the exercise device and a second hub for a second movable member of the exercise device. The first hub and the second hub are pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis within a pivot range, thereby facilitating pivotal movement of the first movable member and the second movable member relative to each other about the pivot axis within the pivot range. The damper is configured to dampen the pivotal movement, wherein the damper comprises a resilient bumper that dampens the pivotal movement at a first end of the pivot range. The elastic damper may have an annular shape that is compressed when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

Drawings

The present disclosure is described with reference to the following figures. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to reference like features and like parts. The items shown in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specifically indicated otherwise.

Fig. 1 is a side perspective view of a first non-limiting example of an exercise machine according to the present disclosure with portions of features such as support columns, base members, and stabilizer caps removed.

Fig. 2 is a rear view thereof with the front stabilizer cover removed.

Fig. 3 is a side view thereof with the front and rear covers and the stabilizer cover removed.

Fig. 4 is an opposite side view thereof with the front and rear covers and stabilizer cover removed.

Fig. 5 is a top view thereof with the base member and stabilizer cap removed.

Fig. 6 is an exploded view of a portion of the front of the fixture.

Fig. 7 is another exploded view of the portion shown in fig. 6.

FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating a low pitch elliptical path of travel of a footpad on a machine.

Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a mid-inclined elliptical path of travel of a footpad on a machine.

FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a high pitch elliptical path of travel of a footpad on a machine.

Fig. 11 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of a pivot joint connecting a rocker arm and a pedal lever.

Fig. 12 is an exploded view of the pivot joint from a first perspective.

Fig. 13 is an exploded view of the pivot joint from a second, opposite view.

Fig. 14 is a cross-sectional view of the pivot joint in a disengaged position.

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the pivot joint in an initial shock absorbing position.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view of the pivot joint in a further shock absorbing position.

Fig. 17 is a second embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 18 is an exploded view of a second embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 19 is a third embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 20 is an exploded view of a third embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 21 is an exploded view of a fourth embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 22 is an exploded view of a fifth embodiment of a pivot joint.

Fig. 23 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of a damper configured for use with a pivot joint.

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of a damper configured for use with a pivot joint.

Fig. 25 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of a damper configured for use with a pivot joint.

Detailed Description

Figures 1-5 illustrate a personal exercise machine 20 for performing a stride exercise motion. Machine 20 extends from front to back in longitudinal direction L, from top to bottom in vertical direction V, and from side to opposite side in horizontal direction H. Machine 20 is substantially symmetrical in the horizontal direction H such that the components on one side of machine 20 are identical or mirror images of the components on the opposite side of machine 20. Accordingly, the description provided below regarding components on one side of machine 20 applies equally to components on an opposite side of machine 20.

Machine 20 has a frame 22, and frame 22 includes a longitudinally extending base member 24. A horizontally extending stabilizer member 26 extends from the front and rear of base member 24 and prevents machine 20 from tipping over in the horizontal direction H. Each stabilizer member 26 has a foot 28 for supporting the bracket 22 on the ground. The stand 22 has a front support post 30, the front support post 30 extending upstanding upwardly from the front of the base member 24. Gusset 32 abuts and supports front support post 30 with respect to base member 24. A bridge 34 is mounted on top of the front support column 30. The bridge 34 has a horizontally extending body 36 and opposed first and second arms 38 extending rearwardly from the body 36. Thus, bridge 34 has a generally U-shape and defines an "active area" between arms 38 for the user's body and/or arms during a striding exercise motion. A generally trapezoidal fixed handle 42 is rigidly mounted to the body 36 between the arms 38 and is at least partially intended for manual grasping by a user operating the machine 20.

A user console 44 is mounted to the bridge 34 and extends generally upwardly from the bridge 34. Console 44 includes a display screen 46 oriented toward a user operating machine 20. As is conventional, console 44 may include a processor and memory and be configured to control various devices associated with machine 20, including for controlling resistance and/or inclination, as will be described further below, for example. Display screen 46 may alternatively be a touch screen, wherein a user operating machine 20 may manually touch the screen to input commands to console 44 for controlling machine 20. Optionally, an input button 48 is located on the fixed handle 42 and is used to manually input commands to the console 44. In some examples, the input button 48 is located elsewhere, such as at the upper end of the handle 125, described below. The input commands entered via display 46 and/or input buttons 48 may include, for example, an increase or decrease in resistance of machine 20 and/or an increase or decrease in inclination of machine 20, and/or the like. Optionally, a biomechanical sensor 45 may be provided on the fixed grip 42 and/or the handle 125 to sense the heart rate of the user when the user manually grasps the grip 42 and/or the handle 125.

At the rear of the machine 20, the stand 22 also includes a rear support column 50, the rear support column 50 extending angularly upward and rearward from the rear of the base member 24. The resistance mechanism 52 is mounted to the rear support column 50, including, for example, to the rear support column 50 and/or the base member 24 via a rear bracket plate (not shown in fig. 4). The type and configuration of the resistance mechanism 52 is conventional and may vary from that shown and described. In the illustrated example, resistance mechanism 52 is a hybrid generator brake configured to provide resistance to striding motion performed on machine 20, as will be described further below, and also configured to generate power based on the striding motion, such as to supply power to console 44. In some examples, a suitable resistance mechanism is "FB Six Series" sold by Chi Hua. The resistance mechanism 52 is connected to the pulley 56 by a belt 58 and is configured such that rotation of the pulley 56 rotates the resistance mechanism 52. The pulley 56 is connected to the rear support column 50 by a central shaft 60 (see fig. 8). The pulley 56 and the central shaft 60 are fixed with respect to each other such that these components rotate together.

At the rear of the machine 20, the diametrically opposed crank arms 62 have radially inner ends that are keyed to (fixed to) the central axle 60 such that the crank arms 62 remain diametrically opposed (i.e., 180 degrees apart) from each other, and such that rotation of the crank arms 62 and the central axle 60 causes rotation of the pulley 56 about a pulley pivot axis 64 defined by the central axle 60. In the illustrated example of fig. 1-5, the resistance mechanism resists rotation of the pulley 56 by the electromagnet 66. In some examples, the resistance mechanism 52 includes another means for preventing movement of the pulley 56, such as by a flywheel, mechanical brake, pneumatic actuator, or the like.

The machine 20 also has first and second pedal members 68, the first and second pedal members 68 being centrally located on opposite sides of the support 22. The pedal members 68 are each elongated in the longitudinal direction L, each pedal member 68 having a central portion 70, a front portion 72 extending generally forwardly and upwardly from the central portion 70, and a rear portion 74 extending generally rearwardly and upwardly from the central portion 70 to a rear portion 76, the rear portion 76 extending rearwardly from the rear portion 74 and being substantially parallel to the central portion 70. In some examples, the tail portion 76 is not substantially parallel to the center portion 70.

At the rear of the machine 20, first and second elongated step links 78 are freely rotatably (pivotably) coupled to the radially outer ends of the opposed crank arms 62 at step link-crank arm pivot axes 80, such as by bearings. Each step link 78 has a first end pivotally coupled to a respective tail portion 76 of the pedal member 68 at a step link-pedal member pivot axis 82. Each step link 78 has an opposite second end that is pivotally coupled to a distal or rear end of the elongated idler link 84 at a step link-idler link pivot axis 86. The opposite, proximal, or forward end of the idler link 84 is pivotally coupled to the base member 24 at an idler link-base member pivot axis 88. As shown in at least fig. 1,3 and 4, the step link-crank arm pivot axis 80 is located along the step link 78 between the step link-pedal member pivot axis 82 and the step link-idler link pivot axis 86. In some examples, the step link-crank arm pivot axis 80 is closer to the step link-pedal member pivot axis 82 than the step link-idler link pivot axis 86. In other examples, the pivot axis 80 is located at the center of the step link 78 or closer to the pivot axis 86.

The first and second foot pads 90 are supported on the central portion 70 of the first and second pedal members 68. Exercise machine 20 includes first and second foot pads 90 to support the user's feet during an elliptical stride motion. The first and second footpads 90 travel along an elliptical path with adjustable tilt, as will be further described below.

Machine 20 also has first and second swing arms 92 pivotally coupled to bracket 22 by an adjustment device 94, as will be described further below. The type and configuration of the adjustment device 94 may vary. The rocker arms 92 each have an upper end portion 96, a lower end portion 98, and an elbow portion 100 located between the upper end portion 96 and the lower end portion 98 such that the upper end portion 96 and the lower end portion 98 extend at an angle with respect to each other. The lower end portion 98 is pivotally coupled to the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68 at a rocker-pedal member pivot axis 102 such that the pedal member 68 is pivotally movable relative to the rocker 92 and also such that pivoting of the rocker 92 relative to the bracket 22 causes commensurate pivoting and/or translation of the pedal member 68 relative to the bracket 22, i.e., such that these components pivot and/or translate together relative to the bracket 22. As will be described further below with reference to fig. 11-16, an embodiment of the novel pivot device 600 pivotally couples the pedal member 68 to the rocker arm 92.

Referring to fig. 3, 4, 6 and 7, the adjustment means 94 are located in the bridge 34 and extend into the mentioned arms 38 on both sides of the active area. The adjustment device 94 is specifically configured to facilitate selectively adjusting and setting, respectively, the position of the rocker arm 92 relative to the bracket 22, and particularly the position of the pivot axis 108, to thereby change the sloped shape of the elliptical path traveled by the footpad 90, respectively, during a striding exercise motion, as will be described further below. The adjustment device 94 may be controlled by the mentioned controller based on a stored exercise program or based on operator input to the console 44. This may be controlled, for example, by a touch screen, input buttons 48 on the fixed handle 42, and/or input buttons on the upper end of the handgrip 125. As will be apparent from the illustrated examples and the following description, the type and configuration of the adjustment device 94 may vary.

In the first example shown in fig. 1-10, the adjustment device 94 includes first and second tilt links 104 that pivotally couple the upper portion 96 of the rocker arm 92 to the bracket 22. More specifically, the tilt link 104 has an upper portion that is pivotally coupled to the bracket 22 at a tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106. The tilt link 104 also has a lower portion pivotally coupled to the upper end portion 96 of the rocker 92 at a tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108, the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 being located generally below the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106. In some examples, the bearings support the links such that the tilt link 104 is pivotable relative to the axes 106, 108.

The adjustment device 94 is configured to pivot the first and second tilt links 104 relative to the bracket 22 (i.e., about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106) to adjust and set the position of the rocker 92 relative to the bracket 22, and in particular the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 relative to the bracket 22 (i.e., about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106). In the illustrated example, the adjustment device 94 includes first and second linear actuators 110. Note that the type of linear actuator 110 may vary from that shown and described. In the illustrated example, the linear actuator 110 comprises an electromechanical linear actuator having an electric gear motor 120, a lead screw assembly 121, and a lead nut and tube assembly 127 (see fig. 6 and 7). The linear actuator 110 has a front end that is pivotally coupled to the bridge 34 by a trunnion assembly 113, particularly at an actuator-bridge pivot axis 114. The linear actuator 110 has an opposite rear end that is pivotally coupled to the tilt link 104 at an actuator-tilt link pivot axis 118 (see fig. 6). An example bearing, which may be best shown in the exploded view of fig. 7, supports the coupling at the actuator-tilt link pivot axis 118. The actuator-tilt link pivot axis 118 is offset relative to the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 and the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108. In the non-limiting example shown, the tilt link 104 is a member or body having or defining a triangular shape with the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106, the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108, and the actuator-tilt link pivot axis 118 located at three vertices of the triangular shape.

The gear motor 120, lead screw assembly 121, and lead nut and tube assembly 127 are configured to extend or retract the linear actuator 110 in accordance with input commands from the controller described above, which may be based on user inputs to the console 44 or based on a program in the controller described above, as described above. Operation of gear motor 120 in a first direction rotates lead screw 123 of lead screw assembly 121 in the first direction, which causes lead nut and tube assembly 127 to travel outwardly along lead screw 123 and outwardly relative to housing 119 of linear actuator 110, thereby lengthening linear actuator 110. Operation of gear motor 120 in a second, opposite direction causes lead screw 123 to counter-rotate in the second direction, which causes lead nut and tube assembly 127 to retract inwardly relative to housing 119, thereby shortening linear actuator 110. Due to the relative positions of the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106, the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108, the actuator-bridge pivot axis 114, and the actuator-tilt link pivot axis 118, the extension of the linear actuator 110 causes the tilt link 104 to pivot rearward along an arc relative to the bridge 34. Such actuation of the linear actuator 110 also moves the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 rearward (e.g., relative to the bracket 22) and along an arc relative to the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106. This increases or increases the inclination of the elliptical path of footpad 90 (e.g., relative to support 22) as illustrated and described below. Conversely, shortening the linear actuator 110 pivots the tilt link 104 forward along an arc relative to the bridge 34 and along an arc relative to the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106. This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 forward along an arc relative to the bracket 22. As illustrated and described below, this reduces or decreases the inclination of the elliptical path of the footpad 90 (e.g., relative to the support 22). In examples disclosed herein, the adjustment device 94 may adjust the inclination of the elliptical path of the footpad 90 during the stride motion.

It is important to note that the adjustment device 94 need not include two actuators as shown in the first example. In other examples, a single adjustment device connected to the two tilt links 104 is used, such as by a motor, worm gear, pulley, and/or any other conventional mechanism for causing the above-described adjustment of the relative positions of the axes.

Referring to fig. 1-5, machine 20 has a movable handle member 122, with handle member 122 each pivotally coupled to opposite sides of bridge 34 at a handle member-bridge pivot axis 124. Each handle member 122 has an upper end with a handle 125, the handle 125 for manual grasping by a user performing a stride exercise motion. Each handle member 122 has a lower end that is pivotably coupled to the coupler link 126 at a handle member-coupler link pivot axis 128. Thus, the handle member 122 and the corresponding coupler links 126 pivot together about the handle member-bridge pivot axis 124, and the coupler links 126 are pivotable relative to the handle member 122 about the handle member-coupler link pivot axis 128. Each coupler link 126 has a front end portion 130 coupled to the handle member 122 at a handle member-coupler link pivot axis 128 and a rear end portion 132 pivotably coupled to the central portion 70 of the pedal member 68 at a coupler link-pedal member pivot axis 134. Thus, the coupler link 126 is pivotable relative to the pedal member 68 about the coupler link-pedal member pivot axis 134. The elbow portion 136 is located between the front end portion 130 and the rear end portion 132 such that the front end portion 130 extends upwardly at an angle relative to the rear end portion 132. Thus, a user standing on foot pad 90 and manually grasping handle 125 may alternately push and pull handle 125, thereby exerting a pushing and pulling force on pedal member 68 via coupler link 126, which facilitates a striding exercise motion, as will be described further below.

Fig. 8-10 are schematic views of machine 20, showing travel paths A1-A3 of footpad 90 and travel paths B1-B3 of step link-pedal member pivot axis 82 during low (fig. 8), medium (fig. 9) and high (fig. 10) inclinations. In each figure, the rocker arm 92 has a different position of the range of oscillation, which is determined by the position of the adjusting device 94. Fig. 8 shows a low tilt, with the linear actuator 110 retracted, and thus the tilt link 104 pivoted about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 toward the bridge 34 (i.e., pivoted clockwise about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 in the side view shown in fig. 8). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 along an arc toward the bridge 34 and, via the connection of the rocker 92 and the pedal member 68, positions the footpad 90 along the low-tilt elliptical path of travel A1. Fig. 9 shows a medium tilt in which the linear actuator 110 is moderately extended, and thus the tilt link 104 is pivoted away from the bridge 34 about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 (i.e., pivoted counterclockwise about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 as viewed from the side view shown in fig. 9). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 along an arc away from the bridge 34 and positions the footpad 90 along the mid-tilt elliptical path of travel A2 via the connection of the rocker 92 and the pedal member 68. Fig. 10 shows a high tilt, wherein the linear actuator 110 is further extended, and thus the tilt link 104 is pivoted away from the bridge 34 about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 (i.e., further pivoted counterclockwise about the tilt link-bracket pivot axis 106 as viewed from the side view shown in fig. 10). This moves the tilt link-rocker pivot axis 108 further along the arc away from the bridge 34 and positions the footpad 90 along the high-tilt elliptical path of travel A3 via the connection of the rocker 92 and the pedal member 68. It is important to understand that the three positions shown in fig. 8-10 are exemplary and that other positions may be achieved by operation of the adjustment device 94, the adjustment device 94 may be automatically controlled by programming of the console 44 and/or by input of the console 44 and/or input of the input button 48 and/or input of other input buttons, for example, at the upper end of the handle 125.

By comparing fig. 8-10, machine 20 is advantageously configured to maintain a substantially compact and constant length (in length direction L) of travel paths A1-A3 throughout the adjustment by adjustment device 94. The arrangement of the various components preferably occupies a relatively small footprint. The end of the rocker arm 92 preferably does not swing beyond the front of the stand 22, thereby maintaining a small footprint. Due to the configuration of the step linkages illustrated and described above, the travel paths B1-B3 are also substantially constant. The rear linkage including step linkage 78 preferably does not swing beyond the rear of the carriage 22, thereby maintaining a small footprint. An advantage of the configuration of the movable handle member 122 and the coupler links 126 is that the overall path of movement (i.e., the range of oscillation of the handle member 122 about the handle member-bridge pivot axis 124) is substantially constant despite the change in inclination by the adjustment device 94.

Preferably, the foot pad 90 is located on the pedal member 68 a distance rearward of the rocker-pedal member pivot axis 102 such that the travel paths A1-A3 form a more natural vertical height. This feature, in combination with travel paths B1-B3, results in a more natural, smoother travel path A1-A3 in all tilt settings. Further, as described hereinabove, the travel path (arc) along which the tilt link travels is inclined upward toward the rear portion of travel, tending to a high inclination. When adjusted to a high tilt setting, this adjusts/blends some additional vertical height to the height of the entire elliptical path.

As previously described, the lower end portion 98 of the rocker arm 92 is pivotally coupled to the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68 at the rocker arm-pedal member pivot axis 102 such that the pedal member 68 is pivotally movable relative to the rocker arm 92. Some embodiments of exercise machines may be configured with a pivoting device that couples pedal member 68 to rocker arm 92. For example, fig. 11-16 illustrate an embodiment of a novel pivot device 600 that pivotally couples the pedal member 68 to the rocker arm 92. The illustrated pivot device 600 includes a first hub 602 and a second hub 604 that pivot relative to each other about a pivot axis 102 defined by the pivot device within a range of Occlusion Angles (OAR) 606, the range of occlusion angles 606 being a range of angular positions (i.e., a pivot range or sweep range) of the pedal member 68 relative to the rocker arm 92, as shown in fig. 14-16. Thus, the pedal member 68 and the rocker arm 92 may pivot relative to each other about the pivot axis 102 within the OAR 606. The illustrated pivot device 600 also includes a damper 608 coupled to the rocker arm 92 or the pedal member 68 and configured to dampen the pivotal movement of the pedal member 68 relative to the rocker arm 92. The pivoting device 600 is generally symmetrical in the horizontal direction H such that the components of the pivoting device 600 configured for use on one side of the machine 20 are identical or mirror images of the components configured for use on the opposite side of the machine 20. Accordingly, the description provided below regarding pivot device 600 on one side of machine 20 applies equally to pivot device 600 on the opposite side of machine 20. For example, this may help reduce the number of unique components required for pivoting device 600 and exercise machine 20 and simplify the manufacturing and assembly process.

Referring to fig. 11-13, in the illustrated embodiment, the first hub 602 is positioned at the lower end portion 98 of the rocker arm 92 and includes a first hub body 614, the first hub body 614 having a generally cylindrical sidewall 616 formed about a mounting surface 618, the mounting surface 618 having an outer surface 620 (fig. 12) and an opposite inner surface 622 (fig. 13). An inner stiffener 619 extends radially inward from the inner surface of the sidewall 616 to the mounting surface 618. Support members 624 are connected to the side walls 616 and project outwardly from the inner surface 622 of the mounting surface 618. Each support member 624 includes a support surface 626, the support surface 626 configured to support the damper 608. The illustrated dampers 608 are all configured as resilient dampers that function as springs and have a generally annular shape and dampen the pivotal movement of the pedal member 68 and rocker arm 92 at the first end 610 and/or the second end 612 of the OAR 606. In some embodiments, at least one elastic bumper may be configured to have a different shape, as shown in fig. 23-25. The elastic damper may be formed of an elastic material such as rubber. 14-16, the annular shape of the damper is configured to engage the second hub 604 when the pedal member 68 is pivoted toward the first end 610 and/or the second end 612 of the OAR 606.

Each damper 608 is coupled to a support surface 626 of a corresponding support member 624 by a clamp 628 and a fastener 630. The illustrated clamp 628 is generally U-shaped and slides over the annular wall of the damper 608 such that the end of the clamp 628 supports the annular wall and a through hole 632 formed in the damper 608 aligns with a through hole 634 in the end of the clamp 628. However, other embodiments may include a clamp 628 having a different shape and/or size than the illustrated embodiment. Each fastener 630 extends through a through hole 636 in the respective support surface 626 and through holes 632, 634 in the damper 608 and clamp 628, thereby coupling the damper 608 to the support surface 626. As best shown in fig. 13, a slot 637 formed in each support surface 626 is configured to receive a portion of the clamp 628 to limit rotation of the damper 608 about the corresponding fastener 630. However, some embodiments may be configured with different arrangements for coupling the damper 608 to the support surface 626.

In the embodiment of fig. 11-16, the pivoting device 600 is configured with two dampers 608 arranged about the pivot axis 102 such that the first damper 608 and the second damper 608 are diametrically opposed with respect to the pivot axis 102. However, as will be discussed below with reference to fig. 17-20 and 22, some embodiments may be configured with a different number of dampers 608.

With continued reference to fig. 12 and 13, the second hub 604 includes a second hub body 642 positioned at the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68. The second hub body 642 has a generally hollow tubular portion 644, the tubular portion 644 extending axially along the pivot axis 102 from an inner end 646 to an opposite outer end 648. An engagement protrusion 650 extends radially outwardly from an inner end 646 of tubular portion 644. Each engagement projection 650 is generally wedge-shaped and has a sidewall 652 that is angled toward the pivot axis 102. At least one of the side walls 652 of each engagement protrusion is configured as an engagement surface 654 that engages the damper 608 at the first end 610 and/or the second end 612 of the OAR 606, as will be discussed with reference to fig. 14-16.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second hub body 642 is a separate member that is received in the pedal member 68 and secured to the pedal member 68. For example, the second hub body 642 may be coupled to the pedal member 68 by at least one weld and/or at least one mechanical fastener. As shown in fig. 12, the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68 includes a cutout 658 and a slot 660, the cutout 658 being configured to receive the tubular portion 644 of the second hub body 642, the slot 660 being configured to receive one of the engagement protrusions 650 extending from the tubular portion 644. The engagement between the slots 660 and the engagement projections 650 resists rotation of the second hub body 642 relative to the pedal member 68 and assists in positioning the second hub 604 prior to attachment to the pedal member 68. However, some embodiments may be configured differently. For example, some embodiments of the pivot device 600 may be configured with a second hub body 642 integrally formed with the pedal member 68, or the second hub 604 may be secured to a different portion of the pedal member 68.

The first hub 602 is rotatably coupled to the second hub 604 by a shaft 664 having a threaded portion 665 and a bearing 668. Bearing 668 is shown configured as a self-aligning bearing, but some embodiments may include different types of bearings. Referring to fig. 12 and 13, an opening 670 formed through the mounting surface 618 of the first hub body 614 is positioned in alignment with the pivot axis 102 and is configured to receive a first end 672 of the spindle 664. The opening 670 is generally stadium-shaped (i.e., elongated with semi-circular ends and a rectangular body) and has a flat side corresponding to the flat surface 674 on the first end 672 of the spindle 664. When assembled, the mounting surface 618 is sandwiched between a first flange 676 formed about the spindle 664 and the washer 678 and lock nut 680. Abutment between the flat surface 674 of the shaft 664 and the flat side of the opening 670 prevents rotation of the shaft 664 relative to the first hub 602 and rocker arm 92.

With continued reference to fig. 12 and 13, the second hub 604 is coupled to a rotating shaft 664 via a bearing 668. Bearing 668 is received in tubular portion 644 via an opening at its outer end 648 and abuts an annular rim 682 formed around the inner surface of tubular portion 644. The second end 686 of the spindle 664 extends into the second hub body 642 via the inner end 646 of the tubular portion 644 and through the central opening of the bearing 668. The washer 688 and the lock nut 690 couple the bearing 668 to the shaft 664 by sandwiching the bearing 668 between the washer 688, the lock nut 690, and a second flange 692 formed about the second end 686 of the shaft 664, thereby pivotally coupling the first hub 602 and the rocker arm 92 to the second hub 604 and the pedal member 68. The first flange 676 and the second flange 692 are axially spaced apart from one another on the shaft 664 to provide clearance for at least one of the damper 608, the support member 624, the engagement protrusion, and/or any other component of the pivot apparatus 600. Some embodiments may include a retaining ring 694, with the retaining ring 694 configured to retain the bearing 668 in the tubular portion 644 and/or to retain the second hub body 642 in the cutout 658 of the pedal member 68.

Referring now to fig. 14-16, a damper 608 (e.g., an elastic shock absorber) of the pivot apparatus 600 is configured to dampen the pivotal movement of the rocker arm 92 (i.e., the first movable member) relative to the pedal member 68 (i.e., the second movable member) as the pedal member 68 approaches the first end 610 of the OAR 606. In the illustrated embodiment, OAR 606 is approximately 60 degrees. However, some embodiments may have different pivot ranges of greater than 60 degrees or less than 60 degrees. For example, one embodiment may be configured with an OAR 606 of approximately 40 degrees. Fig. 14 shows an embodiment of a pivoting device 600 in which the pedal member 68 is at the second end 612 of the OAR 606. As the pedal member 68 pivots about the pivot axis 102 in the direction of arrow 698, the diametrically opposed engagement projections 650 on the second hub 604 of the pedal member 68 pivot about the pivot axis 102 and move toward a respective one of the diametrically opposed dampers 608. Rotation of the pedal member 68 in the direction of arrow 698 brings the engagement surface 654 of the engagement projection 650 into contact with the damper 608, as shown in fig. 15.

Continued rotation of the pedal member 68 toward the first end 610 of the OAR 606 causes the engagement surface 654 to push and compress the damper 608, thereby compressing the annular shape of the damper 608 relative to the corresponding support surface 626. As they are compressed, the elastically deformable damper 608 generates a shock absorbing force that resists continued rotation of the pedal member 68 in the direction of arrow 698. The damper 608 continues to deform until the pedal member 68 reaches a first end 610 of the OAR 606, as shown in fig. 16. When the pedal member 68 is pivoted to the first end 610 of the OAR 606, the engagement surface 654 of the engagement protrusion 650 is brought into a position substantially parallel to the corresponding support surface 626 supporting the compressed damper 608. Due to the parallel positioning of the engagement surface 654 relative to the support surface 626, the damping force generated by the compressed damper 608 is perpendicular to the engagement surface 654 and the support surface 626. For example, this may be used to increase the cushioning efficiency by reducing the lateral component of the cushioning force (i.e., the component of the cushioning force parallel to the engagement surface and the support surface), thereby increasing the stability of exercise machine 20. Some embodiments may be configured such that at least one of the engagement surfaces 654 of the engagement protrusion 650 is not parallel to the corresponding support surface 626 at the first end 610 of the OAR 606.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first hub 602 is positioned at the lower end portion 98 of the rocker arm 92 and the second hub 604 is positioned at the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68. However, some embodiments may be configured differently. For example, some embodiments may be configured with a first hub 602 positioned at the front portion 72 of the pedal member 68 and a second hub 604 positioned at the lower end portion 98 of the rocker arm 92. Some embodiments may be configured with the first hub 602 and/or the second hub 604 including the damper 608 and the engagement surface 654. For example, the first hub may include a first damper configured to be compressed by the second hub, and the second hub may include a second damper configured to be compressed by the first hub.

In the illustrated embodiment, both the first and second dampers 608 are configured to compress as the pedal member 68 moves toward the first end 610 of the OAR 606. However, some embodiments may be configured with at least one damper 608 configured to dampen the pivotal movement of the pedal member 68 as the pedal member 68 pivots toward the second end 612 of the OAR 606. For example, the pivoting means may be provided with a first damper arranged so as to be compressed and dampen the pivoting movement of the pedal member when the pedal member is moved towards the first end of the OAR and a second damper arranged so as to be compressed and dampen the pivoting movement of the pedal member in the direction of the second end of the OAR. Additionally or alternatively, some embodiments of the pivoting device may include at least one additional damper configured to dampen pivoting movement toward the first end 610 and/or the second end 612 of the OAR 606. Further, some embodiments may include at least one damper configured to dampen pivotal movement of the pedal member toward both the first end 610 and the second end 612 of the OAR 606.

In the example of fig. 14-16, OAR 606 is described as a range or rotational movement of pedal member 68 relative to rocker arm 92, with OAR 606 fixed relative to rocker arm 92. However, it should be appreciated that both the pedal member 68 and the rocker arm 92 are pivotable relative to each other, and that the OAR 606 may be described as fixed relative to another reference point. In such an embodiment, the rocker 92 and the pedal member 68 may pivot toward each other such that the pedal member 68 and the rocker 92 meet between a first end and a second end of the OAR that are fixed relative to another reference point.

As previously mentioned, some embodiments of the pivoting device may be configured with a different number of dampers than the embodiments of fig. 11-16. For example, fig. 17 and 18 illustrate an embodiment of a pivoting device 700 that includes a damper 708. The pivoting device 700 includes a first portion 702 on a first movable member 703 (e.g., a first one of the pedal member 68 and the rocker arm 92) and a second portion 704 on a second movable member 705 (e.g., a second one of the pedal member 68 or the rocker arm 92). The first and second portions 702, 704 of the pivoting device 700 are rotatably coupled to each other at the first and second hubs 710, 712, respectively, such that the hubs 710, 712 define a pivot axis about which the first and second movable members 703, 705 pivot.

With continued reference to fig. 17 and 18, the first portion 702 of the pivoting device 700 includes a support bracket 724 formed on the first movable member 703 adjacent the body of the first hub 710. The support bracket 724 is shown to be generally U-shaped and includes a support surface 726, the support surface 726 supporting an elastically deformable damper 708, to which the damper 708 may be coupled similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 11-16. The second portion 704 of the pivoting device 700 includes an engagement protrusion 750, the engagement protrusion 750 extending from the body of the second hub 712. The illustrated engagement protrusion 750 is generally rectangular and includes an engagement surface 754, the engagement surface 754 configured to engage and compress the damper 708 when the second movable member 705 is pivoted toward the first end of the OAR in the direction of arrow 798 (fig. 17), thereby dampening movement of the first movable member 703 relative to the second movable member 705. As with the embodiment of fig. 11-16, at least one of the support surface 726 and the engagement surface 754 is offset from the pivot axis such that when the second movable member 705 reaches the first end of the OAR, the support surface 726 and the corresponding engagement surface 754 are parallel to one another, as shown in fig. 17. Some embodiments may be configured with support brackets and/or engagement protrusions that differ in shape and/or size from the illustrated embodiments.

Fig. 19 and 20 show another embodiment of a pivoting device 800, the pivoting device 800 comprising three dampers 808. The pivot device 800 includes a first portion 802 on a first movable member 803 (e.g., a first one of the pedal member 68 and the rocker arm 92) and a second portion 804 on a second movable member 805 (e.g., a second one of the pedal member 68 or the rocker arm 92). The first portion 802 of the pivot device 800 includes a first hub body 814 having a cylindrical sidewall 816, the cylindrical sidewall 816 formed about a centrally located through bore 818, the through bore 818 defining a pivot axis of the pivot device 800. Three support members 824 are spaced around the through hole 818. Each support member 824 extends radially between the through bore 818 and the side wall 816 and includes a support surface 826, the support surface 826 configured to support one of the dampers 808.

The second portion 804 of the pivoting device 800 includes a second hub body 842 that is generally cylindrical and includes a rotational axis 843 that protrudes from an inner surface 848 of the second hub body 842 toward the first portion 802. The shaft 843 is configured to be received in the through-hole 818 of the first portion 802, thereby pivotably coupling the first portion 802 and the first movable member 803 to the second portion 804 and the second movable member 805. The second portion 804 includes three engagement protrusions 850, each engagement protrusion 850 corresponding to one of the support members 824, the engagement protrusions 850 extending radially outwardly from the second hub body 842 on the inner surface 848. When the second movable member 805 is pivoted toward the first end of the OAR in the direction of arrow 898 (fig. 19), the engagement surface 854 of each engagement projection 850 is configured to engage and compress a respective one of the dampers 808, thereby dampening movement of the first movable member 803 relative to the second movable member 805. As with the embodiment of fig. 11-16 and 17-18, at least one of the support surface 826 and the engagement surface 854 is offset from the pivot axis such that when the second movable member 805 reaches the first end of the OAR, the support surface 826 and the corresponding engagement surface 854 are parallel to one another, as shown in fig. 19. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement protrusion 850 is generally rectangular. However, some embodiments may include at least one engagement protrusion that differs from the illustrated embodiment in shape and/or size.

Referring to fig. 21, another embodiment of a pivoting device 900 is shown. Similar to the embodiment of fig. 11-16, the pivoting device 900 includes two diametrically opposed dampers 908 that are supported on a support surface 926 of a support member 924 of the first portion 902. The body 952 of the second portion 904 of the pivot device 900 includes a mounting opening 953, the mounting opening 953 being configured to receive a fastener (not shown) to secure the body 952 to the second movable member 905. The two engagement protrusions 950 are similar to the engagement protrusions in fig. 19 and 20 and extend into the first portion 902 of the body 914 of the pivot device 900. When the first portion 902 and the second portion 904 of the pivot device 900 are rotated relative to each other toward the first end of the OAR, the engagement surface 954 of each engagement protrusion 950 is configured to engage and compress a respective one of the dampers 908, thereby dampening movement of the first movable member 903 relative to the second movable member 905. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement protrusion 950 is generally rectangular. However, some embodiments may include at least one engagement protrusion that differs from the illustrated embodiment in shape and/or size.

Fig. 22 shows another embodiment of a pivoting device 1000 that includes a damper 1008. The first portion 1002 of the pivoting device 1000 includes a recessed cutout 1015, and the damper 1008 is positioned in the recessed cutout 1015. Damper 1008 is coupled to support surface 1026 at a sidewall 1016 of first portion 1002. As with the embodiment of fig. 11, the engagement protrusion 1050 extends from the body 1052 of the second portion 1004 of the pivoting device 1000. The body 1052 of the second portion 1004 of the pivot device 1000 includes a mounting opening 1053, the mounting opening 1053 configured to receive a fastener (not shown) to secure the body 1052 to the second movable member 1005. As the first portion 1002 and the second portion 1004 are rotated relative to each other toward the first end of the OAR, the engagement surfaces 1054 of the engagement projections 1050 are configured to engage and compress the respective dampers 1008, thereby dampening movement of the first movable member 1003 relative to the second movable member 1005. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement protrusion 1050 is generally rectangular. However, some embodiments may include at least one engagement protrusion that differs from the illustrated embodiment in shape and/or size.

In the embodiment of fig. 11-22, the pivoting devices 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 are described as being used with a personal exercise machine configured to perform a stride exercise motion. However, some embodiments may be configured for use with different types of exercise machines that include a pivoting member. For example, embodiments of the pivoting devices 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 may be configured for use with strength training exercise machines and/or aerobic training exercise machines.

As previously described, some embodiments of a pivoting device, such as the pivoting devices 600, 700, 800, 900, 1000 of fig. 11-22, may be configured with dampers that do not have an annular shape. For example, fig. 23-25 illustrate embodiments without the annular shaped dampers 1108, 1208, 1308. Each of the dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 has two opposing mounting surfaces 1110, 1210, 1310, and the two mounting surfaces 1110, 1210, 1310 may be coupled to the support surfaces of the respective support members. When the dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 are compressed between the support surface and the engagement surface, the shape of the dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 described above deforms as the opposing mounting surfaces 1110, 1210, 1310 of the dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 are pressed together. The dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 may be formed from a resiliently deformable material such that once the compressive force is released, the dampers 1108, 1208, 1308 return to their original shape.

Although specific advantages have been enumerated above, various examples may include some, none, or all of the enumerated advantages. Other technical advantages may become readily apparent to one skilled in the art after review of the above figures and description. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the systems, apparatuses, and methods described herein without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, components of the systems and devices may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the systems and apparatus disclosed herein may be performed by more, fewer, or other components, and the described methods may include more, fewer, or other steps. For example, as described above, the number and configuration of dampers may vary. Furthermore, the range of OAR may vary from that shown, and may be smaller than embodiments with relatively fewer dampers, for example in embodiments with relatively more dampers. And vice versa. In some examples, a single damper may be preferred over an arrangement with multiple dampers when OAR is larger. The number of dampers may be intentionally selected and designed based on the degree of OAR for a particular machine. Furthermore, the steps may be performed in any suitable order. As used in this document, "each" refers to each member of a collection or each member of a subset of a collection.

Claims (28)

1. An exercise device for performing a stride exercise motion, the exercise device comprising:

The bracket is arranged on the upper surface of the bracket,

A rocker arm pivotally coupled to the bracket,

A pedal member that pivots with the rocker arm relative to the bracket, and

A pivot device pivotably coupling the pedal member to the rocker arm, wherein the pivot device includes a damper configured to dampen pivotal movement of the pedal member relative to the rocker arm.

2. The exercise device of claim 1, wherein the pedal member is pivotable relative to the rocker arm within a pivot range, and wherein the damper includes a resilient bumper that dampens the pivot motion at a first end of the pivot range.

3. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

4. The exercise device of claim 2, wherein the resilient bumper is coupled to a first one of the rocker arm and the pedal member, and wherein a second one of the rocker arm and the pedal member engages the resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

5. The exercise device of claim 4, wherein the second one of the rocker arm and the pedal member includes an engagement surface that engages the resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

6. The exercise device of claim 5, wherein the resilient bumper is coupled to a support surface on the first one of the rocker arm and the pedal member, wherein the resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the support surface as the pedal member pivots toward the first end of the pivot range.

7. The exercise device of claim 6, wherein the second one of the rocker arm and the pedal member includes an engagement surface that engages the resilient bumper and compresses the annular shape when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

8. The exercise device of claim 7, wherein the engagement surface is brought into a position substantially parallel to the support surface when the pedal member is pivoted to the first end of the pivot range.

9. The exercise device of claim 4, wherein the elastic bumper is a first elastic bumper and further comprising a second elastic bumper.

10. The exercise device of claim 9, wherein said second elastic bumper engages at said first end of said pivot range.

11. The exercise device of claim 9, wherein the second resilient bumper engages at a second end of the pivot range.

12. The exercise device of claim 9, wherein the pivoting means defines a pivot axis about which the pedal member is pivotable relative to the rocker arm, and wherein the first and second resilient bumpers are disposed radially opposite relative to the pivot axis.

13. The exercise device of claim 9, further comprising a first engagement surface that engages the first resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range and a second engagement surface that engages the second resilient bumper when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.

14. The exercise device of claim 13, wherein the first resilient bumper is coupled to a first support surface, wherein the first resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the first support surface when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range, and wherein the second resilient bumper is coupled to a second support surface, and wherein the second resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the second support surface when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.

15. The exercise device of claim 14, further comprising a first engagement surface that engages and compresses the annular shape of the first elastic buffer when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range, the exercise device further comprising a second engagement surface that engages and compresses the annular shape of the second elastic buffer when the pedal member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.

16. The exercise device of claim 15, wherein the first engagement surface is brought into a position substantially parallel to the first support surface when the pedal member is pivoted to the first end of the pivot range, and wherein the second engagement surface is brought into a position substantially parallel to the second support surface when the pedal member is pivoted to the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.

17. The exercise device of claim 16, wherein the pivoting means defines a pivot axis about which the pedal member is pivotable relative to the rocker arm, and wherein the first and second resilient bumpers are diametrically opposed relative to the pivot axis.

18. A pivoting apparatus for an exercise device, the pivoting apparatus comprising:

A first hub for a first movable member of the exercise device;

a second hub for a second movable member of the exercise device;

Wherein the first and second hubs are pivotable relative to each other about a pivot axis within a pivot range, thereby facilitating pivotal movement of the first and second movable members relative to each other about the pivot axis within the pivot range; and

A damper configured to damp the pivotal movement, wherein the damper comprises an elastic damper that damps the pivotal movement at a first end of the pivot range, and wherein the elastic damper has an annular shape that is compressed when the second movable member is pivoted toward the first end of the pivot range.

19. The pivot device of claim 18, wherein the resilient bumper is coupled to the first hub and the second hub engages the resilient bumper at the first end of the pivot range.

20. The pivot device of claim 19, wherein the second hub includes an engagement surface that engages the spring-damper at the first end of the pivot range.

21. The pivot device of claim 20, wherein the resilient bumper is coupled to a support surface, wherein the resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the support surface at the first end of the pivot range.

22. The pivot device of claim 21, wherein the engagement surface is brought into a substantially parallel position with the support surface at the first end of the pivot range.

23. The pivot device of claim 22, wherein the spring damper is a first spring damper and further comprising a second spring damper.

24. The pivot device of claim 23, wherein the second resilient bumper engages at the first end of the pivot range.

25. The pivot device of claim 23, wherein the second resilient bumper engages at a second end of the pivot range.

26. The pivot device of claim 23, wherein the pivot device defines a pivot axis, and wherein the first and second resilient bumpers are radially opposite relative to the pivot axis.

27. The pivot device of claim 23, further comprising a first engagement surface that engages the first resilient bumper at the first end of the pivot range and a second engagement surface that engages the second resilient bumper at the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.

28. The pivot device of claim 27, wherein the first resilient bumper is coupled to a first support surface, wherein the first resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the first support surface at the first end of the pivot range, and wherein the second resilient bumper is coupled to a second support surface, and wherein the second resilient bumper has an annular shape that is compressed relative to the second support surface at the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range, the pivot device further comprising:

A first engagement surface that engages and compresses the annular shape of the first spring-damper during pivotal movement toward the first end of the pivot range, and further includes a second engagement surface that engages and compresses the annular shape of the second spring-damper during pivotal movement toward the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range,

Wherein the first engagement surface is brought into a position substantially parallel to the first support surface at the first end of the pivot range, and wherein the second engagement surface is brought into a position substantially parallel to the second support surface at the first end of the pivot range or the second end of the pivot range.