| 摘要 |
An exercise device includes a rotor which rotates upon action of an operator. Resistance to rotation of the rotor is provided by fluid trapped between the rotor and a non-rotating portion of the device. A friction relief mechanism provides periodic variation in the amount of resistance to rotation as the rotor is rotated. A fluid level adjustment mechanism permits control of the amount of fluid positioned between the rotor and the non-rotating portion of the device. As the amount of fluid between the rotor and the non-rotating portions of the assembly is increased, the total amount of energy required to complete a single revolution of the rotor is generally increased. In a preferred embodiment, the device is an exercise cycle operated by pedaling. The friction relief mechanism operates so that when the pedaler has pedals positioned at vertical extremes, resistance to pedaling is least; and when the pedals are positioned substantially halfway between the vertical extremes, resistance to pedaling is at a maximum. This periodic variation in the amount of energy required for rotation, caused by the friction relief mechanism, generally matches a profile of a normal bicycle pedaler's muscle capabilities and output.
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