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Step/balance apparatusRelated Patent Categories: Exercise Devices, Involving User Translation Or Physical Simulation Thereof, Stair ClimbingStep/balance apparatus description/claimsThe Patent Description & Claims data below is from USPTO Patent Application 20060040796, Step/balance apparatus. Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] The present invention relates to a step/balance apparatus typically used by individuals at home and in training centers as an exercise device. A user, alternating his or her feet, steps onto and off the apparatus for the purpose of strengthening the leg muscles and providing aerobic exercise. The apparatus of this invention is unique in that the top surface of the step comprises a "pillow." Use of the term "pillow" to describe the present invention is intended to define a soft, flexible, cushion-like material that will flex, give, and deflect when the weight of a user is placed thereon. Thus, the present invention not only provides step exercise, but also more thoroughly exercises the muscles of the calves and thighs of the user because the user's center of gravity will shift as the pillow deforms with each step. In fact, the user's sense of balance and ability to maintain his or her balance will also be improved by use of this invention. [0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art [0004] Patent literature, non-patent literature, and commercially available step exercisers are quite well known in the prior art. One type of step exerciser might be more correctly referred to as a stair step machine, for such devices actually provide two, separate and moveable platforms for each foot of the user so that, in use, one basically feels as if he or she is climbing a set of stairs. These devices typically include means for adjusting the resistance provided by each step. [0005] A second form of step exerciser, more closely related to the structure of this invention, basically comprises a raised platform onto which the user steps with alternating feet. These static step devices typically include means for adjusting the height of the step by the provision of removably attachable elements for the purpose of increasing or decreasing the distance from the top of the step surface to the supporting surface on which the user stands. Some prior art devices of the static type have even included spring-type supports for the step top surface. [0006] However, there remains a need in the art for a static step apparatus that not only provides general exercise and aerobic training, but also simple, efficient means whereby the user's center of gravity may shift and change with each step for the purpose of enhancing not only the user's sense of balance, but also for enhancing the muscular exercise experienced when using such an apparatus. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0007] The step/balance apparatus of this invention comprises a substantially standard static step exercise device and is characterized by the provision of a relatively soft and deformable pillow disposed on the top of the apparatus, the pillow actually being engaged by the user's feet. While the structure of the pillow of this invention is more particularly set forth hereinafter, it basically comprises a flexible covering containing a deformable material such that, with each step of the user, the user's center of gravity shifts. [0008] The invention accordingly comprises an article of manufacture possessing the features, properties, and the relation of elements which will be exemplified in the articles hereinafter described, and the scope of the invention will be indicated in the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009] For a fuller understanding of the nature and objects of the invention, reference should be had to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: [0010] FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a first embodiment of the step/balance apparatus of this invention. [0011] FIG. 2 is a left side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 1. [0012] FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 1. [0013] FIG. 4 is a sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 1 depicting a user's foot contacting the pillow. [0014] FIG. 5 is a sectional view similar to that of FIG. 4 depicting the user's foot deflecting the pillow. [0015] FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of the step/balance apparatus of this invention. [0016] FIG. 7 is a left side elevation of the apparatus of FIG. 6. [0017] FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 6. [0018] FIG. 9 is a sectional view of the apparatus of FIG. 6 depicting the user's foot contacting the pillow. [0019] FIG. 10 is a sectional view similar to that of FIG. 9 depicting a user's foot deflecting the pillow. [0020] Similar reference characters refer to similar parts throughout the several views of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION Continue reading about Step/balance apparatus... Full patent description for Step/balance apparatus Brief Patent Description - Full Patent Description - Patent Application Claims Click on the above for other options relating to this Step/balance apparatus patent application. ###  How KEYWORD MONITOR works... a FREE service from FreshPatents1. Sign up (takes 30 seconds). 2. Fill in the keywords to be monitored. 3. Each week you receive an email with patent applications related to your keywords. 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