U.S. patent application number 09/747214 was filed with the patent office on 2002-01-03 for adjustable weight exercise methods and apparatus.
Invention is credited to Krull, Mark A..
Application Number | 20020002106 09/747214 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 30003692 |
Filed Date | 2002-01-03 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020002106 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Krull, Mark A. |
January 3, 2002 |
Adjustable weight exercise methods and apparatus
Abstract
An exercise dumbbell includes a handle and weight plates
maintained in spaced relationship relative thereto. At least one
latch is movable into and out of engagement with desired weight
plates to prevent movement of the engaged weight plates in a first
direction, and thereby secure same relative to the handle. At least
one catch is connected to the at least one latch and operable in a
second, discrete direction to encourage the latch to remain engaged
with the weight plates.
Inventors: |
Krull, Mark A.;
(Greencastle, IN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MARK A. KRULL
P.O. BOX 57
GREENCASTLE
IN
46135
US
|
Family ID: |
30003692 |
Appl. No.: |
09/747214 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2000 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09747214 |
Dec 21, 2000 |
|
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09290144 |
Apr 13, 1999 |
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60171813 |
Dec 21, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/107 ;
482/108 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/0728 20130101;
A63B 21/00065 20130101; A63B 21/075 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/107 ;
482/108 |
International
Class: |
A63B 021/072; A63B
021/075 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A method of adjusting resistance to exercise, comprising the
steps of: providing a handle assembly with weight supports and with
a handle with defines a longitudinal axis; providing weights sized
and configured to be supported by the weight supports; and
providing a selector rod having first and second end portions sized
and configured to engage the weights, and an intermediate portion
which is radially offset from the end portions.
2. A method of adjusting resistance to exercise, comprising the
steps of: providing a handle assembly with weight supports and with
a handle with defines a longitudinal axis; providing weights sized
and configured to be supported by the weight supports; and
providing a selector rod having a first portion which is movable
along the axis and rotatable relative to the handle, and a second
portion which is sized and configure to engage the weights and
movable along the first portion in a direction perpendicular to the
axis.
3. An exercise dumbbell, comprising: a handle that defines a
longitudinal axis; weight supports mounted on opposite ends of the
handle; weights sized and configured to be supported by respective
weight supports; and a selecting means for selecting any
combination of at least two of the weights at one end of the
handle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/290,144, filed on Apr. 13, 1999; and this
application also discloses subject matter entitled to the filing
date of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/171,813, filed on
Dec. 21, 1999.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates to exercise equipment and more
particularly, to methods and apparatus for adjusting weight
resistance to exercise.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide improved
apparatus and/or methods for adjusting resistance to exercise.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] The present invention provides methods and apparatus which
facilitate exercise involving the movement of weights subject to
gravitational force. Generally speaking, the present invention
allows a person to adjust weight resistance by latching a desired
number of weights relative to a movable member and/or securing a
desired amount of weight on opposite ends of a base member. The
present invention may be applied to exercise weight stacks and/or
free weight assemblies such as dumbbells and barbells.
[0005] A preferred dumbbell embodiment of the present invention may
be described in terms of a handle; weights disposed on opposite
ends of the handle and maintained in spaced relationship relative
thereto; at least one latch having an intermediate portion that
nests within the handle, and opposite ends portions that are
radially offset from the intermediate portion and movable into and
out of engagement with the weights to prevent movement of the
engaged weights relative to the handle. Many features and/or
advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the
more detailed description that follows.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES OF THE DRAWING
[0006] With reference to the Figures of the Drawing, wherein like
numerals represent like parts and assemblies throughout the several
views,
[0007] FIG. 1 is a top view of a first exercise dumbbell
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 1;
[0009] FIG. 3 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 1;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 1 with a
plurality of weights connected thereto;
[0011] FIG. 5 is an end view of the dumbbell and weights of FIG.
4;
[0012] FIG. 6 is an end view of one of the weights of FIG. 4;
[0013] FIG. 7 is an enlarged and partially sectioned top view of a
portion of the dumbbell of FIG. 1 with a latch portion occupying a
discrete position relative to the remainder of the dumbbell;
[0014] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a base sized and configured
to support two of the dumbbells of FIG. 1 and the weights of FIG.
4;
[0015] FIG. 9 is a top view of a second exercise dumbbell
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0016] FIG. 10 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 9;
[0017] FIG. 11 is a partially sectioned end view of the dumbbell of
FIG. 9;
[0018] FIG. 12 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 9 with a
plurality of weights connected thereto;
[0019] FIG. 13 is an end view of the dumbbell and weights of FIG.
12;
[0020] FIG. 14 is a front view of a third exercise dumbbell
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 15 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 14 with the
weights removed;
[0022] FIG. 16 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 14 with the
weights and the weight supports removed;
[0023] FIG. 17 is an end view of one of the weight supports on the
dumbbell of FIG. 14;
[0024] FIG. 18 is a bottom view of the weight support of FIG.
17;
[0025] FIG. 19 is an opposite end view of the weight support of
FIG. 17;
[0026] FIG. 20 is an end view of one of the weights on the dumbbell
of FIG. 14;
[0027] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of an optional tool suitable
for use together with the dumbbell of FIG. 14;
[0028] FIG. 22 is a front view of a fourth exercise dumbbell
constructed according to the principles of the present invention,
shown in an operative configuration with no discretionary weights
connected to the handle assembly;
[0029] FIG. 23 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 22, shown
relative to an underlying base;
[0030] FIG. 24 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 22, shown in
a first selective configuration;
[0031] FIG. 25 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 22, shown in
a second selective configuration and relative to the underlying
base first shown in FIG. 23;
[0032] FIG. 26 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 25;
[0033] FIG. 27 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 22, shown in
a third selective configuration and relative to the underlying base
first shown in FIG. 23;
[0034] FIG. 28 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 22, shown in
a n operative configuration w with two o discretionary weights
connected to the handle assembly;
[0035] FIG. 29 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 28, shown
relative to the underlying base first shown in FIG. 23;
[0036] FIG. 30 is a partially sectioned side view of a cradle
suitable for use with the preferred embodiment dumbbell first shown
in FIG. 31;
[0037] FIG. 31 is a partially sectioned side view of a preferred
embodiment dumbbell constructed according to the principles of the
present invention;
[0038] FIG. 32 is an end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0039] FIG. 33 is an opposite end view of an end wall on the
dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0040] FIG. 34 is an end view of a bar on the dumbbell of FIG.
31;
[0041] FIG. 35 is an end view of a handle grip segment on the bar
of FIG. 34;
[0042] FIG. 36 is an end view of the handle grip member of FIG. 35
apart from the bar of FIG. 34;
[0043] FIG. 37 is an end view of a spacer on the dumbbell of FIG.
31;
[0044] FIG. 38 is a side view of the spacer of FIG. 37;
[0045] FIG. 39 is an opposite end view of the spacer of FIG.
37;
[0046] FIG. 40 is an end view of a first weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0047] FIG. 41 is an end view of a second weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0048] FIG. 42 is an end view of a third weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0049] FIG. 43 is an end view of the weight plates of FIGS. 40-42
aligned with one another;
[0050] FIG. 44 is an opposite end view of the weight plates of FIG.
43;
[0051] FIG. 45 is a top view of a cradle suitable for use with the
dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0052] FIG. 46 is a partially sectioned side view of the cradle of
FIG. 45;
[0053] FIG. 47 is a side view of an alternative embodiment dumbbell
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0054] FIG. 48 is a side view of the dumbbell of FIG. 47, with a
weight selector member moved to a disengaged position;
[0055] FIG. 49 is an end view of an interior support on the
dumbbell of FIG. 47;
[0056] FIG. 50 is a sectioned end view of the dumbbell of FIG. 47,
showing the weight selector member of FIG. 48 in front of the
interior support of FIG. 49;
[0057] FIG. 51 is a sectioned view of the dumbbell of FIG. 47,
taken along the section line shown in FIG. 50;
[0058] FIG. 52 is an end view of a spacer on the dumbbell of FIG.
47;
[0059] FIG. 53 is a side view of the spacer of FIG. 52;
[0060] FIG. 54 is an end view of an exterior support on the
dumbbell of FIG. 47;
[0061] FIG. 55 is an opposite end view of the exterior support of
FIG. 54;
[0062] FIG. 56 is an end view of a first weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 47;
[0063] FIG. 57 is an end view of a second weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 47;
[0064] FIG. 58 is an end view of a third weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 47;
[0065] FIG. 59 is an end view of the weight plates of FIGS. 56-58
aligned with one another;
[0066] FIG. 60 is an end view of another alternative embodiment
dumbbell constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0067] FIG. 61 is an end view of a first weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 60;
[0068] FIG. 62 is an end view of a second weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 60;
[0069] FIG. 63 is an end view of a third weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 60;
[0070] FIG. 64 is an end view of a fourth weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 60;
[0071] FIG. 65 is an end view of a fifth weight plate on the
dumbbell of FIG. 60;
[0072] FIG. 66 is a bottom view of a weight supporting member
constructed according to the principles of the present invention
and suitable for use in place of certain components on the
preferred embodiment dumbbell of FIG. 31;
[0073] FIG. 67 is a sectioned end view of the weight supporting
member of FIG. 66, taken along the section line 67-67;
[0074] FIG. 68 is a sectioned end view of the weight supporting
member of FIG. 66, taken along the section line 68-68;
[0075] FIG. 69 is an end view of a weight plate suitable for use
with the weight supporting member of FIG. 66;
[0076] FIG. 70 is a side view of the weight plate of FIG. 69;
[0077] FIG. 71 is an end view of another "first" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0078] FIG. 72 is an end view of another "second" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0079] FIG. 73 is an end view of another "third" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0080] FIG. 74 is an end view of the plates of FIGS. 71-73 aligned
with one another;
[0081] FIG. 75 is an opposite end view of the aligned plates of
FIGS. 74;
[0082] FIG. 76 is an end view of a "fourth" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present invention
and suitable for use together with the plates of FIG. 74;
[0083] FIG. 77 is a side view of a selector pin constructed
according to the principles of the present invention and suitable
for use with the plates of FIGS. 74 and 76;
[0084] FIG. 78 is a partially sectioned side view of another
selector pin constructed according to the principles of the present
invention and suitable for use with the plates of FIGS. 74 and
76;
[0085] FIG. 79 is an end view of a biasing arrangement suitable for
use in accordance with the present invention;
[0086] FIG. 80 is a sectioned side view of the biasing arrangement
of FIG. 79;
[0087] FIG. 81 is an end view of another biasing arrangement
suitable for use in accordance with the present invention;
[0088] FIG. 82 is a sectioned side view of additional biasing
arrangements suitable for use in accordance with the present
invention;
[0089] FIG. 83 is a sectioned side view of more biasing
arrangements suitable for use in accordance with the present
invention;
[0090] FIG. 84 is a sectioned side view of still more biasing
arrangement suitable for use in accordance with the present
invention;
[0091] FIG. 85 is a front view of a clip suitable for use in
conjunction with a selector rod shown in FIG. 84
[0092] FIG. 86 is an end view of yet another biasing arrangement
suitable for use in accordance with the present invention;
[0093] FIG. 87 is a side view of the biasing arrangement of FIG.
86;
[0094] FIG. 88 is an end view of yet another biasing arrangement
suitable for use in accordance with the present invention;
[0095] FIG. 89 is a side view of the biasing arrangement of FIG.
88;
[0096] FIG. 90 is an end view of another "first" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0097] FIG. 91 is an end view of another "second" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0098] FIG. 92 is an end view of another "third" weight plate
constructed according to the principles of the present
invention;
[0099] FIG. 93 is an end view of the plates of FIGS. 90-92 aligned
with one another;
[0100] FIG. 94 is an opposite end view of the aligned plates of
FIG. 93;
[0101] FIG. 95 is a fragmentary and sectioned side view of a
dumbbell constructed according to the principles of the present
invention and including another type of selector pin suitable for
use in connection with various embodiments of the present
invention;
[0102] FIG. 96 is an enlarged, fragmentary and sectioned side view
of a portion of the dumbbell of FIG. 95;
[0103] FIG. 97 is a top view of another dumbbell constructed
according to the principles of the present invention;
[0104] FIG. 98 is a front view of components of the dumbbell of
FIG. 97, including a dumbbell handle assembly, weight plates, and a
weight plate holder in alignment relative to one another;
[0105] FIG. 99 is an end view of the handle assembly shown in FIG.
98;
[0106] FIG. 100 is a sectioned end view of the handle assembly
shown in FIG. 98;
[0107] FIG. 101 is a sectioned end view of the handle assembly of
FIG. 100, with a supplemental selector rod in a different
orientation;
[0108] FIG. 102 is another sectioned end view of the handle
assembly of FIG. 98, shown in alignment with one of the
supplemental weight plates of FIG. 98;
[0109] FIG. 103 is yet another sectioned end view of the handle
assembly of FIG. 98, shown in alignment with one of the primary
weight plates shown in FIG. 98;
[0110] FIG. 104 is an enlarged, sectioned end view of a portion of
the handle assembly shown in FIGS. 100-101;
[0111] FIG. 105 is a top view of another dumbbell constructed
according to the principles of the present invention;
[0112] FIG. 106 is a fragmented, top view of a selector pin on the
dumbbell of FIG. 105;
[0113] FIG. 107 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 105;
[0114] FIG. 108 is a top view of yet another dumbbell constructed
according to the principles of the present invention;
[0115] FIG. 109 is a top view of the dumbbell of FIG. 108 in a
second configuration;
[0116] FIG. 110 is a front view of the dumbbell of FIG. 108;
[0117] FIG. 111 is an end view of a weight plate suitable for use
with the dumbbell of FIG. 108;
[0118] FIG. 112 is a front view of a dumbbell handle assembly,
dumbbell weight plates, and a weight plate holder constructed
according to the principles of the present invention and aligned
relative to one another;
[0119] FIG. 113 is an end view of the items shown in FIG. 112
aligned relative to one another;
[0120] FIG. 114 is an end view of one of the weight plates of FIG.
112 in front of a spacer on the handle assembly of FIG. 112;
[0121] FIG. 115 is an end view of the weight plate of FIG. 114 in a
different orientation relative to the spacer of FIG. 114, and
aligned with the weight plate holder of FIG. 112;
[0122] FIG. 116 is a top view of another dumbbell constructed
according to the principles of the present invention;
[0123] FIG. 117 is a side view of the dumbbell of FIG. 116;
[0124] FIG. 118 is an end view of a weight plate suitable for use
with the dumbbell of FIG. 116;
[0125] FIG. 119 is a top view of another dumbbell constructed
according to the principles of the present invention;
[0126] FIG. 120 is a side view of the dumbbell of FIG. 119; and
[0127] FIG. 121 is a top view of the dumbbell of FIG. 119 in a
second configuration.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0128] The present invention is described primarily with reference
to exercise dumbbells. However, those skilled in the art will
recognize that one or more features and/or combination of features
which are disclosed herein with reference to dumbbells may also be
applied to other exercise equipment, including weight stack
machines, for example. Some examples of cross-over applications are
disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,033,350 to Krull, and pending U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/300,546 (filed by Krull on Apr. 27,
1999), both of which are incorporated herein by reference. Also
incorporated herein by reference are U.S. Pat. No. 4,284,463 to
Shields; U.S. Pat. No. 4,529,198 to Hettick, Jr.; U.S. Pat. No.
4,822,034 to Shields; U.S. Pat. No. 5,769,762 to Towley, III et
al.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,839,997 to Roth et al.; and U.S. Pat. No.
6,099,442 to Krull, one or more of which may contribute to
understanding of the present invention.
[0129] A first dumbbell constructed according to the principles of
the present invention is designated as 700 in FIGS. 31-32. As shown
in FIGS. 31 and 34, the dumbbell 700 includes a bar 710 which is
preferably a square tube and made of steel. As shown in FIGS. 31
and 36, the dumbbell 700 also includes a handle grip member 720
which is preferably a cylindrical tube and made of plastic. As
shown in FIG. 35, the bar 710 and the handle grip member 720 are
sized and configured so that the former fits snugly inside the
latter, and the parts are secured against rotation relative to one
another.
[0130] Interior supports or plates 730 are mounted on the bar 710
outside each end of the handle grip member 720. Each support 730
provides a smooth inwardly facing surface which abuts an end of the
handle grip member 720, and an irregular outwardly facing surface
which is discussed in greater detail below.
[0131] Two spacers 740 are mounted on each end of the bar 710,
outward from a respective interior support 730. As shown in FIGS.
37-39, each spacer 740 includes an axially extending offset 742 and
a radially extending plate 744. A hole 741, sized and configured to
receive the bar 710, extends through both portions of the spacer
740. Each spacer 740 is oriented so the offset 742 extends inward,
toward the handle grip member 720.
[0132] Exterior supports or plates 750 are mounted on opposite ends
of the bar 710, outside respective spacers 740. As shown in FIG.
33, most of the inwardly facing side of each support 750 go is
smooth. However, an axially extending offset 752 extends inward
from each support 750 and abuts the plate portion 744 of a
respective spacer 740. Also, for reasons discussed below, a lower
portion of the inwardly facing side is recessed, and a beveled or
ramped surface 753 is provided between the upper and lower
portions. As shown in FIG. 32, the lower half of the outwardly
facing side of each support 750 is smooth (and well suited for
bearing information about the product 700 and/or its manufacturer).
The upper half of the outwardly facing side includes recessed
surfaces 754 and 755, which are separated by a more deeply recessed
surface 758.
[0133] Circumferentially spaced holes 756 are formed through each
support 750 proximate the outermost edge of the recessed surface
755. A visual indicator is provided proximate each of the holes 756
for reasons discussed below. Both a hole and a depression are
provided in the center of each support 750 to accommodate an end
fastener 759. A shaft on the fastener 759 is anchored inside a
respective end of the bar 710, and a head on the fastener 759
overlies a portion of a respective support 750.
[0134] Selector rods 760 have first ends 762 which are inserted
through respective fasteners 759 and into respective ends of the
bar 710. The rods 760 are selectively movable in both rotational
and axial fashion relative to the bar 710. Cylindrical bushings 761
are connected to the ends 762 of respective rods 760 and bear
against the inside walls of the bar 710. From a manufacturing
perspective, the selector rods 760 are inserted through respective
fasteners 759 and connected to respective bushings 761 before the
fasteners 759 are secured to the bar 710.
[0135] An intermediate portion 768 of each selector rod 760 extends
perpendicular to the first end 762 thereof (radially relative to
the longitudinal axis of the bar 710). The intermediate portion 768
spans the surfaces 754, 758 and 755 on the outwardly facing side of
a respective exterior support 750. Each support 750 is configured
so that a respective intermediate portion 768 may rest outward from
the surfaces 754 and 755 but inside an outermost surface defined by
the support 750. Also, the recessed surface 758 allows a person to
maneuver one or more fingers behind the intermediate portion (or
handle portion) 768 in order to pull the selector rod 760 axially
outward.
[0136] A second end 769 of each selector rod extends parallel to a
respective first end 762 (and parallel to the longitudinal axis of
the bar 710). The second end 769 aligns with any of the holes 756
in the exterior support 750 and has a beveled tip to facilitate
insertion therein. Aligned openings are provided in each of the
interior supports 730 to similarly receive the second ends 769 of a
respective selector rod 760. Since the second end 769 is relatively
shorter than the first end 762, the former may be pulled from the
exterior support 750 and reoriented relative to same, while a
portion of the latter remains inside the tube 710. As a result, the
second end 769 may be inserted into any of the holes 756 at the
discretion of the user.
[0137] The selector rods 760 may be biased relative to the tube 710
and/or one another, to remain in axially inward positions relative
to the tube 710 and/or to resist axially outward movement. Some
examples of suitable biasing arrangements are shown in FIGS. 79-89
and described below.
[0138] FIGS. 79-80 show an end plate or support 1250 which is
similar to the support 750 on the preferred embodiment 700.
However, a relatively larger recessed surface 1254 is provided on
the support 1250, and loop type fasteners 1256 are mounted on at
least a portion of the surface 1254. Also, a cover 1260 is mounted
on the selector rod 760 and overlies at least a portion of the
surface 1254. An opening 1266 is provided in a flange 1264 on the
cover 1260 in order to receive and/or retain the selector rod 760.
On this particular arrangement, hook type fasteners are mounted on
the cover 1260 to mate with the loop type fasteners 1256 on the
support 1250. The hook and loop type fasteners cooperate to
discourage movement of the selector rod 760 axially away from the
support 1250. The hook and loop type fasteners may be replaced by
other suitable connecting means.
[0139] FIG. 81 shows an end plate or support 1350 which is similar
to the support 750 on the preferred embodiment 700. However, a
different recessed surface 1354 on the support 1350 cooperates with
a distinct end fastener 1359 to accommodate a magnet 1360. The
magnet 1360 is sized and situated to span the selector rod 760
regardless of the latter's orientation relative to the support
1350. The magnet 1360 cooperates with the steel selector rod 760 to
discourage movement of the latter axially away from the support
1350.
[0140] FIG. 82 shows two additional biasing arrangements with
reference to an inside plate or support 1430 which is similar to
the support 730 on the preferred embodiment 700. For one of the
biasing arrangements, an arcuate cavity is provided in the support
1430 to receive and/or retain an arcuate strip of magnetic material
1468. The magnet 1468 cooperates with the distal end 1469 of the
steel selector rod 1460 to discourage movement of the latter
axially away from the middle of the handle 720. For the other
biasing arrangement, a bushing 1461 is secured to the opposite end
of the selector rod 1460, and a magnet 1462 is mounted on the
bushing 1461. The lengths of the opposite end selector rods are
such that the magnet 1462 on the depicted rod 1460 engages either a
similar magnet or a steel plate on the other selector rod when both
occupy their respective fully engaged positions. The magnetic
attraction between the abutting ends of the selector rods
discourages movement of either rod axially away from the middle of
the handle 720 and/or the other rod. The magnets on the abutting
ends of the selector rods may be replaced by other suitable
connecting means, such as hook and loop fasteners, for example.
Those skilled in the art will also recognize that the two
arrangements shown in FIG. 82 may be used in combination or in the
alternative.
[0141] FIG. 83 shows two additional biasing arrangements which also
may be used in combination or in the alternative. The arrangements
are shown with reference to an inside plate or support 1530 which
is similar to the support 730 on the preferred embodiment 700.
However, for one of the biasing arrangements, an arcuate cavity is
provided in the support 1530 to receive an arcuate rod 1567 having
a circular cross-section. Relatively deeper cavities are provided
in the support 1530, at spaced locations, to receive respective
coil springs 1566. The springs 1566 bias the rod 1567 toward the
top of the support 1530 and into an annular groove 1568 provided in
the end 1569 of the selector rod 1560. The rod 1567 cooperates with
the groove 1568 in the rod 1560 to discourage movement of the
latter axially away from the middle of the handle 720.
[0142] For the other biasing arrangement, a bushing 1561 is secured
to the opposite end of the selector rod 1460, and a cavity is
provided in the bushing 1561 to receive both a coil spring 1562 and
a ball 1563. The spring 1562 biases the ball 1563 toward the top of
the support 1530 and into a hole provided in the tube 1510. The
ball 1563 cooperates with the hole in the tube 1510 to discourage
movement of the rod 1560 axially away from the middle of the handle
720.
[0143] FIGS. 84-85 shows two additional biasing arrangements
suitable for use in accordance with the present invention. Among
other things, FIG. 84 shows a selector rod 1660 extending through
the end fastener 759 and having a first end anchored to a bushing
1661. The end fastener 759 is rigidly secured to the tube 710, and
the bushing 1661 is slidably and rotatably mounted inside the tube
710. A coil spring 1664 is compressed between the bushing 1661 and
the end fastener 759. The compression of the spring 1664 between
the bushing 1661 and the end fastener 759 both discourages and
resists movement of the selector rod 1660 axially away from the
middle of the handle 720.
[0144] FIG. 84 also shows an interior plate or support 1630 having
through holes aligned with the opposite end 1669 of the selector
rod 1660. An annular groove 1668 is provided in the protruding end
1669 of the selector rod 1660 to facilitate mounting of a spring
clip 1670 thereon. As shown in FIG. 85, the spring clip 1670
includes a circular intermediate portion 1678 sized and configured
to occupy the groove 1668 in the absence of externally applied
force. The spring clip 1670 also includes opposite end portions
1676 which may be squeezed together to enlarge the inside diameter
of the intermediate portion 1678 to facilitate attachment and
removal of the spring clip 1670 relative to the end 1669 of the
selector rod 1660. When properly secured to the selector rod 1660,
the spring clip 1670 discourages movement of the selector rod 1660
axially away from the middle of the handle 720.
[0145] FIGS. 86-87 show yet another biasing arrangement suitable
for use in accordance with the present invention. The arrangement
is described with reference to the same handle 720, interior
support 1630, and selector rod 1660 as those described above with
reference to FIG. 84. The annular groove 1668 is exposed upon
insertion of the end 1669 of the selector rod 1660 through any of
the holes 1636 in the support 1630. An elastic band 1760 is
disposed loosely about the handle 720 and may be stretched to also
encompass the end 1669 of the selector rod 1660. The band 1760 is
sized and configured to occupy the groove 1668 in the selector rod
1660, and the tension and presence of the band 1760 discourage
movement of the selector rod 1660 axially away from the middle of
the handle 720.
[0146] FIGS. 88-89 show still another biasing arrangement suitable
for use in accordance with the present invention. The arrangement
is also described with reference to the same handle 720, interior
support 1630, and selector rod 1660 as those described above with
reference to FIG. 84. A resilient hook member 1860 is rotatably
mounted on the handle 720 and has a distal end 1866 which may
snapped into engagement with the end 1669 of the selector rod 1660.
The distal end 1866 is sized and configured to occupy the groove
1668 in the selector rod 1660 and thereby discourage movement of
the selector rod 1660 axially away from the middle of the handle
720.
[0147] When free to move axially, the selector rods are rotatable
into alignment with different amounts and/or combinations of
weights. For example, the preferred embodiment dumbbell 700
includes three pairs of weight plates 770, 780, and 790, which
weigh six pounds, three pounds, and one and one-half pounds,
respectively. The plates 770, 780, and 790 are selectively secured,
in any combination, to respective supports 730 and 750 by means of
respective selector rods 760.
[0148] When not in use, the dumbbell 700 rests on a cradle having
walls sized and configured to receive and retain the weights 770,
780, and 790. For example, a suitable cradle 702 is shown in FIGS.
45-46. The cradle 702 includes intermediate members 703 and
opposite end members 704. The intermediate members 703 maintain the
end members 704 an appropriate distance apart from one another.
Each end member 704 is bounded by side walls 705 and at least one
bottom member 706. Spacers extend inward from opposing side walls
705 of the cradle 702 and are sized and configured to align with
the supports 730 and 750 and the spacers 740 on the dumbbell 700.
In other words, the spacers on the cradle 702 define slots 707,
708, and 709 which are sized and configured to receive the weights
770, 780, and 790, respectively. Some of the possible cradle
arrangements and/or features are disclosed in the patents already
incorporated herein by reference.
[0149] FIG. 40 shows one of the six pound plates 770, as viewed by
a person looking from the handle grip member 720 outward toward the
exterior support 750 shown in FIG. 32. Each plate 770 is provided
with an upwardly opening slot 771 sized and configured to receive
both the axial offset 742 on a respective spacer 740 and an axial
offset on a respective interior support 730. From a manufacturing
perspective, this arrangement with the interior supports 730 is
desirable because all of the intermediate spacers 740 may be made
identical. On one side of the plate 770, a notch 772 provides
clearance for the selector rod 760 when it is inserted into the "3"
hole shown in FIG. 32 (as well as any of the "6", or "12" holes).
On an opposite side of the plate 770, holes 776-779 are provided to
receive the selector rod 760 when it is inserted into any of the
"15", "18", "21", or "24" holes, respectively.
[0150] FIG. 41 shows one of the three pound plates 780, as viewed
by a person looking from the handle grip member 720 outward toward
the exterior support 750 shown in FIG. 32. Each plate 780 is
provided with an upwardly opening slot 781 sized and configured to
receive the axial offset 742 on a respective spacer 740. On one
side of the plate 780, a notch 782 provides clearance for the
selector rod 760 when it is inserted into the "3" hole shown in
FIG. 32 (as well as the "16" hole). Holes 784 and 785 are provided
on this same side of the plate 780 to receive the selector rod 760
when it is inserted into either of the 11911 or "12" holes,
respectively. On an opposite side of the plate 780, holes 788 and
789 are provided to receive the selector rod 760 when it is
inserted into either of the "21" or "24" holes, respectively. The
plates 780 and 770 are sized and configured so that the holes 788
and 789 align with the holes 778 and 779, respectively.
[0151] FIG. 42 shows one of the one and one-half pound plates 790,
as viewed by a person looking from the handle grip member 720
outward toward the exterior support 750 shown in FIG. 32. Each
plate 790 is provided with an upwardly opening slot 791 sized and
configured to receive the axial offset 752 on a respective exterior
support 750. The plates 790 are shown with the same thickness as
the plates 780 to emphasize that some or all of the plates 770,
780, and 790 can be of similar thickness if they have different
densities. On one side of the plate 790, a notch 792 provides
clearance for the selector rod 760 when it is inserted into the "3"
hole shown in FIG. 32. Holes 793 and 795 are provided on this same
side of the plate 790 to receive the selector rod 760 when it is
inserted into either of the "6" or "12" holes, respectively. On an
opposite side of the plate 790, holes 797 and 799 are provided to
receive the selector rod 760 when it is inserted into either of the
"18" or "24" holes, respectively. The plates 790 and 780 are sized
and configured so that the holes 795 and 799 align with the holes
785 and 789, respectively. Also, the plates 790 and 770 are sized
and configured to that the holes 797 and 799 align with the holes
777 and 779, respectively.
[0152] FIGS. 43-44 show the three plates 770, 780, and 790 axially
aligned relative to one another, with FIG. 44 being viewed from the
same perspective as FIG. 32. Assuming that the unloaded handle
assembly (the dumbbell 700 without any of the weights 770, 780, or
790) weighs three pounds, the weights 770, 780, and 790 may be
added to the handle assembly in various combinations to provide
each of the weights set forth below:
1 Rod Handle Weights 770 Weights 780 Weights 790 Total "3" 3 0 0 0
3 "6" 3 3 0 0 6 "9" 3 0 6 0 9 "12" 3 3 6 0 12 "15" 3 0 0 12 15 "18"
3 3 0 12 18 "21" 3 0 6 12 21 "24" 3 3 6 12 24
[0153] An advantage of this embodiment 700 is that only three
discrete weights are required on each side of the dumbbell to
provide eight different dumbbell loads.
[0154] FIGS. 90-94 show three alternative weight plates W5, W10,
and W20, which also may be connected in any combination to a
similar handle member to provide eight different amounts of weight
resistance. As compared to the weight plates 790, 780, and 770, the
weight plates W5, W10, and Ware somewhat simpler in shape (and
larger in mass), but they do not provide a sequentially increasing
amount of weight as a function of selector rod orientation. In this
regard, as the selector rod is sequentially moved clockwise to each
of the positions RA-RH, the selected mass changes from zero pounds
to ten pounds to fifteen pounds to five pounds to twenty-five
pounds to thirty-five pounds to thirty pounds to twenty pounds,
respectively.
[0155] FIGS. 95-96 show another selector rod and biasing
arrangement suitable for use on several of the embodiments
disclosed herein, including the partially shown dumbbell designated
as 2000 in FIG. 95. The rod or pin 2060 includes first and second
L-shaped members 2061 and 2062 which are movable axially and
rotatable relative to a dumbbell handle. The handle includes a
steel tube 2020 that extends the length of the dumbbell 2000, and a
plastic hand grip 2022 that fits over the steel tube 2020 and spans
an intermediate portion of the dumbbell 2000. A first segment 2063
on the first member 2061 extends axially into engagement with the
weight plates (not shown) on the right end of the dumbbell 2000,
and a second, orthogonal segment 2065 on the first member 2061
extends radially away from the first segment 2063 and toward the
hand grip 2022. A first segment 2066 on the second member 2062
extends axially into engagement with the weight plates 2070, 2080,
and 2090 on the left end of the dumbbell 2000, and a second,
orthogonal segment 2068 on the second member 2062 extends radially
away from the first segment 2066 and toward the hand grip 2022.
[0156] An intermediate member 2069 is rigidly interconnected
between the opposite ends of respective second segments 2065 and
2068 and extends axially therebetween. The intermediate member 2069
nests within an axially extending groove in the hand grip 2022. As
a result of this arrangement, the first segments 2063 and 2066 are
simultaneously pulled out of engagement with respective plates
2070, 2080, and 2090 (which are configured for selection in the
same manner as the plates W5, W10, and W20, for example). The
plates 2070, 2080, and 2090 are similarly slotted to accommodate
the handle member 2020, and they are maintained in respective axial
positions by a support 2012 interconnected between inner and outer
base plates 2002 and 2004. The support 2012 has a rectangular
perimeter and intermediate spacers 2014 similar to those on the
member designated as 1000 in FIG. 66.
[0157] A notch is provided in the intermediate member 2069 to
receive a ball 2059 that is biased toward the intermediate member
2069 by means of a compressed spring 2058. The notch spans a
sufficiently large arc about the intermediate member 2069 to
accomodate the entire range of selector pin orientations. The ball
2059 encourages the selector pin 2060 to remain in the axial
position shown in FIG. 95 relative to the hand grip 2022. Other
suitable latching and/or biasing means are disclosed herein with
reference to other embodiments.
[0158] Among other things, the selector rod 2060 may be described
as having first and second axially extending portions which are
movable axially into and out of engagement with respective holes
provided in respective sets of weights at opposite ends of a base,;
and an intermediate axially extending portion which is
interconnected between the first and second axially extending
portions and radially offset relative thereto.
[0159] On several of the embodiments disclosed herein, the number
of available dumbbell loads may be doubled by supplementing the
dumbbell 700 with two "half-weights" which weigh three-quarters of
one pound. Such half-weights may be attached to the dumbbell 700 in
various manners, including magnets or hook and loop fasteners, for
example.
[0160] Another way to accommodate additional "fourth" weights or
half-weights on certain embodiments is illustrated in FIGS. 71-78.
The four weight plates W1-W4 may be connected in any combination to
a handle member to provide sixteen different, balanced amounts of
weight. As compared to the weight plates 790, 780, and 770, the
weight plates W1, W2, and W4 include an additional set of holes
QA-QH to accommodate the addition of an extra plate W3 to any
combination of the other three plates W1, W2, and W4. In other
words, the holes PA-PH accommodate any combination of the plates
W1, W2, and W4 without the plate W3, and the holes QA-QH
accommodate any combination of the plates W1, W2, and W4 together
with the plate W3. For a dumbbell having two of each of the weights
W1-W4 on each end of the handle, the plates W3 add a pound of mass
to the weight being lifted whenever the selector pin occupies any
of the holes QA-QH. The other three plates W1, W2, and W4 add
different combinations of two pounds, four pounds, and eight pounds
in much the same manner as the plates 790, 780, and 770.
[0161] The weight plates W1-W4 require a selector pin which differs
from those described above. One suitable option is the pin
designated as 2108 in FIG. 77. The pin 2108 includes an elongate
first member 2110 which moves axially and rotates relative to a
dumbbell handle member, and an L-shaped second member 2120 which
moves radially relative to the first member 2110. The first member
2110 has a first end 2111 which extends axially into the handle
member, and a second, opposite end 2112 which is formed into a
closed loop. A first segment 2121 on the L-shaped member 2120
extends radially through the closed loop 2112 and terminates in a
head 2122 of relatively larger diameter or cross-section. A second,
orthogonal segment 2124 on the L-shaped member 2120 extends axially
away from the first segment 2121 and terminates in a distal end
2128 which is inserted through the selected weights. The loop 2112
and the segment 2121 are preferably configured to permit sliding,
but not rotation, of the latter relative to the former.
[0162] Another suitable replacement pin is designated as 2208 in
FIG. 78. The pin 2208 includes a first L-shaped member 2210 which
rotates and moves axially relative to a dumbbell handle member, and
a second L-shaped member 2220 which moves radially relative to the
first member 2210. The first member 2210 has an axial segment 2213
which extends into the handle member and terminates in a distal end
2211. The first member 2210 has a radial segment 2215 which is
connected to an opposite end of the axial segment 2213 and
terminates in a slide block 2217. A first segment 2221 on the
second member 2220 is provided with a bore 2227 sized and
configured to receive the slide block 2217. A fastener 2230 is
secured to the distal end of the first segment 2221 to retain the
slide block 2217 inside the bore 2227. The bore 2227 and the slide
block 2217 are preferably configured to permit sliding, but not
rotation, of the latter relative to the former. A second segment
2224 on the second member 2220 extends perpendicularly away from
the first segment 2221 and terminates in a distal end 2228 which is
inserted through the selected weights.
[0163] The telescoping action of either pin 2108 or 2208
facilitates movement of the respective weight engaging portion 2124
or 2224 between the upper set of holes PA-PH and the lower set of
holes QA-QH. Although both sets of holes PA-PH and QA-QH are
arranged in arcs about a common axis, the telescoping selector pin
eliminates the need to arrange the selection holes in this manner
or any other particular manner. Also, these substitute pins 2108
and 2208 may be latched in place by one or more means described
with reference to the other embodiments.
[0164] Generally speaking, several embodiments of the subject
invention may be described, for example, in terms of an adjustable
weight exercise system, comprising: a base; at least three
individual weights having respective overlapping portions and
respective non-overlapping portions which are arranged to provide
separate paths through each possible combination of the weights;
holes extending through the base and the weights at each point of
intersection between the paths and the weights, wherein some of the
holes extend through respective overlapping portions and are
aligned with one another, and some of the holes extend through
respective non-overlapping portions; and a connecting pin
selectively insertable through the base and all of the holes along
any one of the paths to select any combination of the weights.
Within this context, either selector pin 2108 or 2208 may further
be described as movable axially into and out of the sets of holes
and adjustable both radially and circumferentially relative to the
sets of holes.
[0165] Another embodiment dumbbell constructed according to the
principles of the present invention is designated as 800 in FIGS.
47-48. The dumbbell 800 includes a bar 820 which is made of steel
and may be described with reference to three discrete sections. An
intermediate section of the bar 820 has a circular profile or
cross-section, as shown in FIG. 50. Each distal end portion of the
bar 820 is primarily cylindrical but interrupted by a flat surface
which extend lengthwise along each end of the bar (to fit snugly
within the hole designated as 832 in FIG. 49). The exterior of the
intermediate section may be knurled or otherwise textured to
facilitate gripping thereof.
[0166] After first and second weight selecting members 860 are
rotatably mounted on the intermediate section of the bar 820, first
and second interior supports 830 are mounted on opposite end
portions of the bar 820. Each support 830 provides a smooth
inwardly facing surface which abuts a respective end of the
intermediate portion of the bar 820. Each support 830 also provides
an outwardly extending offset or collar 834 for reasons explained
below.
[0167] Circumferentially spaced holes 836 are formed through each
support 830 proximate the upper edge thereof. A visual indicator
835 is provided proximate each of the holes 836 for reasons
discussed below. Also, grooves 837 extend radially inward from
respective holes 836 to respective holes 838 (which are also
circumferentially spaced).
[0168] As shown in FIG. 50, each selecting member 860 may be
described as primarily disc-shaped with a radially extending finger
861. Both a selector rod 866 and a prong 868 extend axially from
the finger 861 proximate its distal end. As shown in FIG. 51, each
of the holes 836 is sized and configured to receive the selector
rod 866. A first end of the selector rod 866 is anchored within a
boss 865 on a respective selecting member 860. An opposite, second
end of each selector rod 866 terminates in a rounded tip suitable
for insertion through the holes 836 (and aligned holes in any
aligned dumbbell components).
[0169] FIG. 51 also shows that each of the holes 838 is sized and
configured to receive the prong 868. On this embodiment 800, a
first end of the prong 868 is integrally joined to the selecting
member 860. As shown in FIGS. 48 and 51, an opposite, second end of
the prong 868 is provided with a nub 869 sized and configured to
snap into place behind a shoulder or lip on the sidewall of any of
the holes 838. In this regard, the prong 868 is made of a resilient
material and operates like a leaf spring. Those skilled in the art
will recognize that the lips in the holes 838 may be formed during
injection molding of the support 830. The nub 869 may also be
formed during injection molding of the selecting member 860, by
bringing a mold element through the opening designated as 862 in
FIGS. 50 and 51, for example. A central boss 863 extends axially
outward from each selecting member 860 to facilitate grasping of a
respective rim 864 when it is abutting a respective support
830.
[0170] Two spacers 840 are mounted on each end of the bar 820
outside respective interior supports 830. As shown in FIGS. 52-53,
each spacer 840 includes an axially extending offset 844 and a
radially extending plate 848. A hole 842, sized and configured to
receive an end portion of the bar 820, extends through both
portions of the spacer 840. Each spacer 840 is oriented so the
offset 844 extends axially inward, toward the intermediate section
of the bar 820. Recessed areas 849 may be formed in the plate 848
to reduce the mass of the spacers 840 and/or to conserve resources.
Circumferentially spaced holes 846 extend through each spacer 840
proximate the upper edge thereof. The sidewalls of the holes 846
extend in divergent fashion toward the intermediate section of the
bar 820 to facilitate insertion of the selector rod 860
therein.
[0171] First and second exterior supports 850 are mounted on
opposite end sections of the bar 820 outside respective spacers
840. As shown in FIGS. 54-55, each support 850 has an axially
extending offset or collar 854 which extends axially inward and
abuts the plate portion 848 of a respective spacer 840. Each
support 850 also has a radially extending plate 855 which is
similar in size and configuration to the interior supports 830. A
hole 852, sized and configured to receive an end portion of the bar
820, extends through both the collar 854 and the plate 855. A
recessed cavity 851 is provided in the smooth, outwardly facing
side of each support 850 to receive a countersunk end fastener (not
shown) which is rigidly anchored to the end of the bar 820.
[0172] A plateau or offset surface 858 is provided on the inwardly
facing side of each support 850, both on the upper portion thereof
and about the collar 854. Recessed areas 859 may be formed in the
plateau 858 to reduce the mass of the supports 850 and/or to
conserve resources. Circumferentially spaced holes 856 extend into
each plateau 858 proximate the upper edge thereof. The sidewalls of
the holes 856 extend in divergent fashion toward the intermediate
section of the bar 820 to facilitate insertion of the selector rod
860 therein. The plateau 858 provides both additional depth for
receiving the selector rod 860 and room for a spacer on a cradle to
extend upward between the support 850 and an adjacent weight plate
890.
[0173] The dumbbell 800 includes three pairs of weight plates 870,
880, and 890, which weigh six pounds, three pounds, and one and
one-half pounds, respectively. The plates 870, 880, and 890 are
selectively secured, in any combination, to respective supports 830
and 850 and spacers 840 by means of respective selector rods 860.
When not in use, the dumbbell 800 rests on a cradle having walls
and/or spacers sized and configured to receive and retain the
weights 870, 880, and 890. As on the cradle 702 described above,
spacers extend inward and/or upward from one or more walls to align
with the supports 830 and 850 and the spacers 840 and thereby
maintain the proper alignment and spacing between the weights 870,
880, and 890.
[0174] FIG. 56 shows one of the six pound plates 870, as viewed by
a person looking from the intermediate section of the bar 820
outward toward the interior support 830 shown in FIGS. 49 and 50.
Each plate 870 is provided with an upwardly opening slot 871 sized
and configured to receive both the axial offset 844 on a respective
spacer 840 and the axial offset 834 on a respective interior
support 830. Again, this arrangement of offsets is desirable
because all of the intermediate spacers 840 may be made identical
in size and shape. On one side of the plate 870, a notch 872
provides clearance for the selector rod 860 when it is inserted
into the "13", hole shown in FIGS. 49 and 50 (as well as any of the
"61", "9", or "12" holes). On an opposite side of the plate 870,
holes 876-879 are provided to receive the selector rod 860 when it
is inserted into any of the "15", "18", "21", or "24" holes,
respectively.
[0175] FIG. 57 shows one of the three pound plates 880, as viewed
by a person looking from the intermediate section of the bar 820
outward toward the interior support 830 shown in FIGS. 49-50. Each
plate 880 is provided with an upwardly opening slot 881 sized and
configured to receive the axial offset 844 on a respective spacer
840. On one side of the plate 880, a notch 882 provides clearance
for the selector rod 860 when it is inserted into the "3" hole
shown in FIGS. 49-50 (as well as the "6" hole). Holes 884 and 885
are provided on this same side of the plate 880 to receive the
selector rod 860 when it is inserted into either of the "9" or "12"
holes, respectively. On an opposite side of the plate 880, holes
888 and 889 are provided to receive the selector rod 860 when it is
inserted into either of the "21" or "24" holes, respectively. The
plates 880 and 870 are sized and configured so that the holes 888
and 889 align with the holes 878 and 879, respectively, to
facilitate contemporaneous engagement of both plates 880 and 870 in
these two selector rod orientations.
[0176] FIG. 58 shows one of the one and one-half pound plates 890,
as viewed by a person looking from the intermediate portion of the
bar 820 outward toward the interior support 830 shown in FIGS.
49-50. Each plate 890 is provided with an upwardly opening slot 891
sized and configured to receive the axial offset 854 on a
respective exterior support 850. The plates 890 are shown with
one-half the thickness of the plates 880 with the understanding
that the plates 870, 880, and 890 are equally dense. On one side of
the plate 890, a notch 892 provides clearance for the selector rod
860 when it is inserted into the "3" hole shown in FIGS. 49-50.
Holes 893 and 895 are provided on this same side of the plate 890
to receive the selector rod 860 when it is inserted into either of
the "6" or "12" holes, respectively. On an opposite side of the
plate 890, holes 897 and 899 are provided to receive the selector
rod 860 when it is inserted into either of the "18" or "24" holes,
respectively. The plates 890 and 880 are sized and configured so
that the holes 895 and 899 align with the holes 885 and 889,
respectively, to facilitate contemporaneous engagement of both
plates 890 and 880 in these two selector rod orientations. Also,
the plates 890 and 870 are sized and configured to that the holes
897 and 899 align with the holes 877 and 879, respectively, to
facilitate contemporaneous engagement of both plates 890 and 870 in
these two selector rod orientations.
[0177] FIG. 59 shows the three different plates 870, 880, and 890
aligned relative to one another, and viewed from the same
perspective as FIGS. 56-58. Assuming that the unloaded handle
assembly (the dumbbell 800 without any of the plates 870, 880, or
890) weighs three pounds, the weight plates 870, 880, and 890 may
be added to the handle assembly to provide the same range of
dumbbell loads as the previous embodiment 700.
[0178] An advantage of the dumbbell 800 is that a user's hand is
placed between the selecting members 860 when the dumbbell 800 is
in use. Also, the extent of the offsets 863 may be made adjustable
to customize the distance between the opposing rims 864. In any
event, the selecting members 860 may be less likely to withdraw
during use, and/or a user may more readily notice withdrawal of the
selecting members 860 during use. Another advantage of the dumbbell
800 is that the spacers 840 support the selector rods 860 at
intermediate positions between the supports 830 and 850. Also, the
dumbbell 800 may be described as somewhat more self-contained,
since the selecting members 860 may be operated within the planform
of the dumbbell 800. With respect to the biasing arrangement on the
dumbbell 800, those skilled in the art will recognize that it may
be adapted for use on various other dumbbells described herein,
and/or one or more biasing arrangements described with reference to
other dumbbells may be adapted for use on the dumbbell 800.
[0179] Yet another dumbbell constructed according to the principles
of the present invention is designated as 900 in FIG. 60. The
dumbbell 900 is generally similar in construction and operation to
the dumbbells 700 and 800 described above. Therefore, the following
description of the dumbbell 900 will focus primarily on its unique
attributes.
[0180] The dumbbell 900 has two selector rods 967 and 968 which
extend the entire length of the dumbbell 900. The first selector
rod 967 may be described as an L-shaped bar having a relatively
shorter segment which extends radially across one of the end
supports 950, and a relatively longer segment which extends axially
between the end supports 950 (and through interior supports and any
selected weight plates). The longer segment may be inserted into
any of eight different holes in the end support 950. The respective
locations of these holes are designated as A-H in FIGS. 60-65. The
shorter segment may be secured relative to the end support 950 by
means of a spring clip 965 and/or by another suitable means. The
clip 965 is made of steel and secured between the end support 950
and the end fastener 959. In the alternative, the clip 965 may be
an integrally molded portion of the end support 950. A recessed
area 955 in the end support 950 provides access to the inward side
of the shorter segment of the selector rod 967, for purposes of
grasping same. Grooves extend from the recessed area 955 to the
outer holes A, C, F, and H to seat the shorter segment of the
selector rod 967 in a desired position relative to the end support
950.
[0181] The second selector rod 968 may be described as a J-shaped
bar having a relatively longer axial segment, a relatively shorter
axial segment, and an intermediate radial segment extending
therebetween. The longer axial segment extends between the end
supports 950 (and through interior supports and any selected weight
plates) and may be inserted into any of four different holes in the
end support 950. The respective locations of these holes are
designated as I-L in FIGS. 60-65. The shorter axial segment may be
inserted into an adjacent one of the holes I-L, depending on the
position of the longer axial segment. The shorter axial segment
only extends into the one end support 950 and may be secured
relative thereto by means of a ball detent arrangement and/or by
another suitable means.
[0182] The dumbbell 900 includes a pair of weight plates 981 and a
pair of weight plates 982 which are disposed at opposite ends of
the dumbbell 900. In particular, each of the plates 981 is disposed
just outside a respective interior support, and each of the plates
982 is disposed just outside a respective plate 981. As shown in
FIGS. 61-62, the plates 981 and 982 are configured to by passed by
the first selector rod 967 regardless of the hole A-H occupied by
same. Furthermore, the plate 981 is configured to be engaged by the
second selector rod 968 when its longer segment occupies either
hole J or hole L. Also, the plate 982 is configured to be engaged
by the second selector rod 968 when its longer segment occupies
either hole K or hole L. As a result of this arrangement, when the
longer segment of the second selector rod 968 occupies hole
location I, neither of the plates 981 or 982 is engaged; and when
the longer segment of the second selector rod 968 occupies hole
location J, only the plate 981 is engaged; and when the longer
segment of the second selector rod 968 occupies hole location K,
only the plate 982 is engaged; and when the longer segment of the
second selector rod 968 occupies hole location L, both of the
plates 981 and 982 are engaged. Assuming that each of the plates
981 and 982 weighs ten pounds, the pairs of weights 981 and 982 are
capable of adding twenty to forty pounds of weight to the dumbbell
900 in twenty pound increments.
[0183] The dumbbell 900 also includes pairs of weight plates
971-973 disposed at opposite ends of the dumbbell 900. In
particular, each of the plates 973 is disposed just outside a
respective plate 982; each of the plates 972 is disposed just
outside a respective plate 973; and each of the plates 971 is
disposed just outside a respective plate 972 (and just inside a
respective end support 950). The plates 971-973 are configured to
be bypassed by the second selector rod 968 regardless of the hole
I-L occupied by same. Furthermore, the plate 971 is configured to
be engaged by the first selector rod 967 when its longer segment
occupies any of the holes C-D or G-H; the plate 972 is configured
to be engaged by the first selector rod 967 when its longer segment
occupies any of the holes B, D-E, or G; and the plate 973 is
configured to be engaged by the first selector rod 967 when its
longer segment occupies any of the holes E-G.
[0184] Assuming that each of the plates 971 weigh one and
one-quarter pounds, and each of the plates 972 weighs two and
one-half pounds, and each of the plates 973 weighs five pounds, the
plates 971-973 are capable of adding two and one-half to seventeen
and one-half pounds of weight to the dumbbell 900, in two and
one-half pound increments. Indicia on the end support 950 show the
weight associated with each of the selector rod locations (with an
unloaded handle assembly weighing ten pounds).
[0185] In each of the FIGS. 61-65, a respective weight plate is
depicted with an elongate slot and handle location shown in dashed
lines to emphasize that the slots are not necessary if the handle
does not extend across the plates. In this regard, rigid boxes or
frames may be provided to partially enclose and selectively retain
the weight plates, and the handle may be configured to extend only
between the two boxes. The boxes or frames may include flanges to
space the weight plates and/or support intermediate portions of the
selector rod(s).
[0186] Another possible handle unit or base suitable for use on
various embodiments, including any of the dumbbells 700, 800, or
900, is designated as 1000 in FIGS. 66-68. The base 1000 includes
box-like weight supporting members like those suggested above, but
also is configured for use with a "full length" handle. The base
1000 may be described as a shell or housing having a U-shaped
cross-section or outer wall 1009 which opens downward when properly
oriented relative to an underlying cradle. One end of the wall 1009
is bounded by an interior support 1030 which has a profile
comparable to that of the dumbbell as a whole. A central opening
1031 extends through the support 1030 to receive an end portion of
a shaft having a profile comparable in configuration to the opening
1031. Circumferentially spaced holes 1036 extend through the
support 1030 to accommodate a selector rod. An opposite end of the
wall 1009 is bounded by an exterior support 1050 which also has a
profile comparable to that of the dumbbell as a whole. A central
opening 1051 extends through the support 1050 to receive an end of
a shaft having a profile comparable in configuration to the opening
1051. The support 1050 is retained on the end of the shaft, between
an end fastener and the end portion (disposed between the end and
the handle portion of the shaft). Circumferentially spaced holes
extend through the support 1050, in alignment with the holes 1036
(and holes 1046) to accommodate the selector rod.
[0187] Intermediate the supports 1030 and 1050, spacers 1040 extend
inward and downward from the wall 1009 to define weight receiving
cavities therebetween. Circumferentially spaced holes 1046 extend
through the spacers 1040 to accommodate the selector rod. An
advantage of this base 1000 is that it can be manufactured as a
single, integrally molded unit. Another advantage is that the wall
1009 shrouds the upper half of the dumbbell.
[0188] FIGS. 69-70 show a weight plate 1080 which is provided with
built-in spacers 1090, and which may be used, for example, together
with the base 1000 and/or on the dumbbell 700 (with the elimination
of the spacers 740). For purposes of demonstrating
interchangeability, the weight plate 1080 has the same end profile
as the weight plate 780 shown in FIG. 41 (but is viewed from an
opposite end). Like the plate 780, the plate 1080 includes an
elongate slot 1081 and a notch 1082. Also, holes 1084-1085 and
1088-1089 extend through the plate 1080 to accommodate the selector
rod. The spacers or axial offsets 1090 extend outward from each end
of the plate 1080, but other arrangements are also possible.
[0189] Each spacer 1090 includes an upwardly inclined or beveled
surface 1091, a downwardly inclined or beveled surface 1092, and an
intermediate surface 1093 which extends radially. With reference to
the dumbbell 700, for example, one of the surfaces 1093 bears
against the weight plate 1070, and the other surface bears against
the weight plate 1090. The beveled surfaces 1091 and 1092
facilitate the return of any selected weight plates relative to any
unselected weight plates.
[0190] Another dumbbell constructed according to the principles of
the present invention is designated as 100 in FIGS. 1-8. The
dumbbell 100 includes a parallelepiped block 110, which is
preferably one or two pieces of injection molded plastic. A central
opening 112, bounded by opposing end walls 111, is provided in the
block 110 to receive and accommodate a person's hand. A cylindrical
handle 120 is disposed within the opening 112 and extends
perpendicularly between the end walls 111. The handle 120 has an
outer diameter of about one inch and is sized and configured to be
grasped.
[0191] Eight slots 114 are provided in the block 110 to receive and
accommodate weights 140a and 140b. Each slot 114 is sized and
configured to receive up to five one-pound weights 140a or one
five-pound weight 140b. In other words, up to forty pounds of
weights 140a and 140b may be inserted into the block 110.
[0192] FIG. 6 shows an end view of one of the weights 140a. The
weight 140a is a twelve gauge steel plate approximately six inches
wide and six inches high (the weights 140b present the same end
view and are five times as thick). A notch 146 is provided in the
weight 140a to accommodate a latch or selector rod 160, as further
explained below. The sidewalls of the notch 146 may be made
outwardly divergent in order to facilitate insertion of the latch
160 into the notch 146.
[0193] FIG. 3 shows an end view of the block 110. A longitudinal
notch 116 is provided in the block 110 to align with the notch 146
in the weight 140a and likewise accommodate the latch 160. This
notch may be provided with outwardly divergent sidewalls, as well.
A transverse notch 117 is provided in the block 110 to facilitate
operation of the latch 160 as further explained below.
[0194] As indicated by the arrows in FIG. 3, the latch 160 is
movable in the direction X relative to the block 110. As shown in
FIG. 7, the latch is movable (in the direction X) to a position
outside the confines or planform of the block 110. When the latch
160 occupies the "open" position shown in FIG. 7, the weight 140a
is freely movable in the direction Y (shown in FIG. 5) relative to
the block 110. FIG. 5 shows the relative positions of the weights
140a and 140b and the block 110 when the notches 116 and 146 are
aligned to receive the latch 160. When the weights 140a and 140b
are latched in place, the longitudinal axis of the handle 120 is
generally aligned with the inertia centers of the weights 140a and
140b.
[0195] When the latch 160 occupies the "closed" position shown in
FIG. 5, the weight 140a is latched against movement relative to the
block 110 (in the direction Y or otherwise). In particular, the
relatively longer walls of the slot 114 prevent the weight 140a
from moving axially relative to the handle 120; and the relatively
shorter walls of the slot 114 prevent the weight 140a from moving
in the radial direction X; and the latch 160 (along with the
opposite, relatively shorter wall of the slot 114) prevents the
weight 140a from moving in the radial direction Y.
[0196] FIG. 7 shows how the latch 160 is movably connected to the
block 110. A cylindrical opening or bore 161 is provided in each of
the end walls 111 of the block 110 to receive a respective shaft
164. Each shaft 164 has a first end connected to the latch 160 and
a second, opposite end having a relatively large diameter head 165.
A helical spring 166 is mounted on each shaft 164 and compressed
between the head 165 and a plug 162 which inserts into the outer
end of the opening 161 to secure the spring 166 and the head 165
therein. The spring 166 biases the latch 160 toward the notches 116
and 146 and the closed position shown in FIG. 5. The spring 166
acts in the direction X, perpendicular to the direction Y, and
thus, is not subject to gravitational force acting on the weight
140a.
[0197] The notch 117 enables a person to "reach behind" the latch
160 and pull it toward the open position shown in FIG. 7. The
relative sizes of the weights 140a and 140b and the block 110 are
such that the block 110 may be pushed downward relative to the
weights 140a and 140b to temporarily secure the latch 160 in the
open position (bearing against the outside edges of the weights
140a and 140b). Subsequent upward movement of the block 110
relative to the weights 140a and 140b and/or downward movement of
the weights 140a and 140b relative to the block 110 will cause the
latch 160 to snap into the notches 116 and 146.
[0198] FIG. 8 shows a base or housing 190 which is sized and
configured to receive two of the dumbbells 100 and up to eighty
pounds of weights 140a and 140b. A first compartment 191 is
provided for a first dumbbell 100, and a second compartment 192 is
provided for a second dumbbell 100. Each of four compartments 194
is sized and configured to receive and accommodate twenty pounds of
weights 140a and 140b. On one contemplated embodiment, twenty
one-pound weights 140a and twelve five-pound weights 140b are
provided together with two blocks 110 and one base 190. Assuming
that each block 110 weighs fives pounds, this arrangement provides
two dumbbells 100 which may be adjusted between five and forty-five
pounds in one pound increments.
[0199] Among other things, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the dumbbell 100 and/or the base 190 provide convenient and
reliable means for holding the weights in place prior to selection;
changing the amount of weight engaged for exercise motion;
supporting the weights during exercise motion; and/or returning the
weights to their proper location at the conclusion of exercise
motion.
[0200] Some additional variations of the present invention are
embodied on the dumbbell designated as 200 and described with
reference to FIGS. 9-13. The dumbbell 200 similarly includes a
block-shaped member 210, which is preferably one or two pieces of
injection molded plastic. A central opening 212 is provided in the
block 210 to receive and accommodate a person's hand. The opening
212 is bounded by opposing end walls 211. A cylindrical handle 220
is disposed within the opening 212 and extends perpendicularly
between the end walls 211.
[0201] Eight upwardly opening slots or compartments 214 are
provided in the block 210 to receive and accommodate weights 240a
and 240b. The compartments 214 are bounded by a bottom wall 219,
and the handle 220 is positioned to align more with the centers of
inertia of the weights 240a and 240b within the compartments 214
than with the geometric center of the end walls 211 on the block
210. The compartments are bounded by flanges 213 rather than
continuous intermediate walls. One compartment 214 on each side of
the block 210 is sized and configured to receive one ten-pound
weight 240b, and the other three compartments 214 on each side of
the block 210 are sized and configured to receive up to five
one-pound weights 240a or one five-pound weight. In other words, up
to fifty pounds of weights 240a and 240b may be inserted into the
block 210.
[0202] The weight 240a is a twelve gauge steel plate approximately
six inches wide and six inches high (the weights 240b are similar
in shape but ten times as thick). As on weights 140a and 140b, a
notch is provided in each weight 240a and 240b to accommodate a
latch or selector rod 260, as explained below. In addition, a
hemispherical opening 245 is provided in each weight 240a and 240b
to facilitate handling of the weights 240a and 240b.
[0203] FIG. 11 shows an end view of the block 210. A notch 216 is
provided in the block 210 to align with the notches in the weights
240a and 240b and similarly receive the latch 260. A discrete notch
217 is provided in the block 210 to facilitate manipulation of the
latch 260, as explained below.
[0204] As in the case of the foregoing embodiment 100, the latch
260 is movable in a first, horizontal direction relative to the
block 210 (with reference to the upright orientations shown in
FIGS. 10-13). The latch 260 is movable between an open position,
outside the planform of the block 210, and a closed position, shown
in FIGS. 11 and 13. When the latch 260 occupies the open position,
the weights 240a and 240b are movable in a second, vertical
direction relative to the block 210. FIG. 13 shows the relative
positions of the weights 240a and 240b and the block 210 when the
notches are aligned to receive the latch 260. When the latch 260
occupies the closed position, the weights 240a and 240b are latched
against movement relative to the block 110 (in any direction).
[0205] The latch 260 includes a middle portion which selectively
occupies the notch 216, and opposite outside portions which extend
perpendicularly away from the middle portion and overlie opposite
outside walls 218 of the block 210, and opposite distal portions
which extend perpendicularly away from respective outside portions
and toward the bottom wall 219. The outside portions are slidably
mounted to respective outside walls 218 by means of sleeve members
267, and the distal portions snap into and out of engagement with
resilient clip members 268. The clip members 268 releasably retain
the latch 260 in the closed position inside the notch 116. The
arrangement is such that the clip members 268 are not subject to
gravitational force acting on the weights 240a and 240b. Like on
the dumbbell 100, the notch 217 enables a person to "reach behind"
the latch 260 and pull it toward the open position.
[0206] A base similar to that shown in FIG. 8 may be provided for
two of the dumbbells 200 and up to one hundred pounds of weights.
On one contemplated embodiment, the base is sized and configured to
receive and accommodate twenty one-pound weights 240a, eight
five-pound weights (not shown), and four ten-pound weights 240b.
Assuming that each block 210 weighs five pounds, this arrangement
provides two dumbbells 200 which may be adjusted between five and
fifty-five pounds in one pound increments.
[0207] Among other things, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the dumbbell 200 provides convenient and reliable means for
enclosing the weights during exercise motion, as well as holding
the weights in place prior to selection; changing the amount of
weight engaged for exercise motion; supporting the weights during
exercise motion; and/or returning the weights to their proper
location at the conclusion of exercise motion.
[0208] Additional variations of the present invention are embodied
on a dumbbell designated as 1100 in FIGS. 105 and 107. Among other
things, FIGS. 105-107 show an alternative selector pin arrangement
suitable for use on dumbbells like those designated as 100 and 200.
Generally speaking, the dumbbell 1100 includes a base 1110 with a
handle 1120 and weight compartments 1114 disposed at opposite ends
of the handle 1120. The compartments 1114 are configured to hold
weights 140 that are of like size, but alternatively, may be
configured to hold weights of different sizes. An elongate slot is
provided in the base 1110 and cuts across each of the compartments
1114 to receive a selector pin 1160. As shown in FIG. 6, a notch is
provided in each of the weights to align with the slot and receive
the selector pin 1160.
[0209] The selector pin 1160 includes opposite first and second
weight engaging segments 1161 and 1162 and an intermediate segment
1164 rigidly interconnected therebetween. The intermediate segment
1164 extends parallel to the weight engaging segments 1161 and 1162
but is radially offset by means of angled segments 1163. As a
result of the offset, the weight engaging segments 1161 and 1162
can engage the weights 1140 without causing interference between
the intermediate segment 1164 and the handle 1120.
[0210] A notch 1106 in the base 1110 facilitates grasping of the
selector pin 1160 for purposes of moving same into and out of the
slot in the base 1110. When the pin 1160 occupies the position
shown in FIG. 105, any properly positioned weights are secured to
the base by respective weight engaging portions 1161 and 1162. When
the pin 1160 is pulled outward from the base 1110, weights may be
removed from the compartments 1114 or inserted into vacant
compartments 1114 at the discretion of the user. A resilient tab
1116 overlies the notch 1106 to provide a means for encouraging the
pin 1160 to remain in the position shown in FIG. 105.
[0211] Among other things, the subject invention may be described,
for example, along the following lines. An adjustable exercise
weight system, comprising: a base that includes a handle and weight
supports at opposite ends of the handle; and a selector rod that
includes first and second segments which are movable radially into
engagement with respective weight supports, and an intermediate
segment which is interconnected between the first and second
segments and offset radially relative thereto.
[0212] FIGS. 108-111 show a dumbbell 600 which is similar in many
respects to the previous embodiment 1110, as well as the dumbbells
100 and 200. Generally speaking, the dumbbell 600 includes a base
610 having a handle 620 and weight compartments 651 and 652 at
opposite ends of the handle 620. The compartments 651 and 652 are
configured to hold weights like the weight 640 shown in FIG. 111.
Opposite end slots are provided in the base 610 and cut across
respective compartments 651 and 652 to receive respective portions
661 and 662 of a selector pin 660 (which are also configured to
enter notches 646 in the weights 640). An intermediate pin portion
664 is interconnected between the weight engaging portions 661 and
662 by means of radially extending portions 663. As a result of the
radial offset, the intermediate portion 664 rests adjacent the
handle 620 when the weight engaging segments 661 and 662 are moved
into engagement with any weights 640 within the compartments 651
and 652.
[0213] The radially extending portions 663 remain accessible to
facilitate movement of the selector pin 660 into and out of the
slots in the base 610. When the pin 660 occupies the position shown
in FIG. 109, any properly positioned weights 640 are secured to the
base by respective weight engaging portions 661 and 662. When the
pin 660 is pulled outward from the base 610 to the position shown
in FIG. 108, weights 640 may be removed from the compartments 651
and 652 or inserted into vacant compartments 651 and 652 at the
discretion of the user. The user holds the intermediate portion 664
of the pin 660 against the handle 620 to encourage the pin 660 to
remain in the position shown in FIG. 109. An axially extending slot
is provided in the handle 620 to receive the intermediate portion
664 of the pin 660. As suggested by FIG. 109, the upper and lower
halves of the base 610 are identical and thus, can be made from a
single mold and secured together by rivets 601 or other suitable
means to provide the base 610 with the aforementioned slots
incorporated therein.
[0214] Among other things, the subject invention may be described,
for example, as an adjustable exercise weight system, comprising: a
base which includes a handle and weight supports at opposite ends
of the handle; and a selector rod which includes first and second
segments which are movable into engagement with respective weights,
and an intermediate segment interconnected between the first and
second segments and selectively held adjacent the handle.
[0215] FIGS. 97-104 show a dumbbell 2300 having two different
weight selection systems, including a half-weight selection system
that uses an "offset" selector rod 2370 which is similar in some
respects to those discussed above. Generally speaking, the dumbbell
2300 includes a handle 2320 and downwardly opening boxes 2312
secured to opposite ends of the handle 2320, thereby defining a
base 2310. Opposite side supports 2360 are also interconnected
between the boxes 2312 to house respective, opposite side selector
rods 2361 and 2362, as well as enhance the structural integrity of
the base 2310. Each of the boxes 2312 is divided into weight
receiving compartments 2317 and 2319 by means of walls or spacers
2323. The innermost compartment 2317 on each end of the base 2310
is sized and configured to receive a relatively smaller weight
plate 2380, and the remaining compartments 2319 on each end of the
base 2310 are sized and configured to receive relatively larger
weight plates 2390, which weigh twice as much as the plates
2380.
[0216] A separate selector rod 2370 is provided to selectively
engage only the "half-weights" 2380. The selector rod 2370 has
first and second weight engaging segments 2371 and 2372 which
project into respective compartments 2317, and which are rigidly
interconnected by a radially offset intermediate segment that nests
within the handle 2320. As shown in FIGS. 100-101, the segments
2371 and 2372 project through respective arcuate slots 2308, and
the selector rod 2370 is rotatable between opposite ends of the
slot 2308. Nubs 2307 project outward from the opposing faces of the
innermost walls 2323 to discourage undesired movement of the
selector rod 2370 from one orientation to the other.
[0217] As shown in FIG. 102, which constitutes an opposite end view
relative to those of FIGS. 100-101, the weight plate 2380 fits
between opposite sidewalls 2328 on the base 2310, and the slot 2308
aligns with the lower portion of an opening 2387 in the plate 2380.
The upper portion of the opening 2387 extends vertically upward
from the lower portion to the upper edge 2388 of the plate 2380.
When the respective weight engaging segment 2371 or 2372 is
vertically aligned with the upper portion of the opening 2387, the
selector rod 2370 and the remainder of the base 2310 are free to
move upward relative to the weight plate 2380. On the other hand,
when the respective weight engaging segment 2371 or 2372 is rotated
to an opposite end of the lower portion of the opening 2387, the
weight plate 2380 is constrained to move upward (and elsewhere)
together with the selector rod 2380 and the remainder of the base
2310.
[0218] As shown in FIG. 103, the weight plate 2390 fits between
opposite sidewalls 2329 on the base 2310, and a notch 2396 in the
weight plate 2390 aligns with an opening 2326 extending through
adjacent portions of the spacers 2325 (and 2323) and one of the
sidewalls 2329. In the absence of a respective selector rod 2361 or
2362, the base 2310 is free to move upward relative to the weight
plate 2390. On the other hand, when a respective selector rod 2361
or 2362 is moved through the notch 2396, the associated weight
plate 2390 is constrained to move upward (and elsewhere) together
with the base 2310. The upper end 2398 of the weight plate 2390 is
shaped similar to the upper end 2388 of the half-weight plate 2380,
and both are sized and configured to fit through respective
openings 2318 in the base 2310.
[0219] Each of the selector rods 2361 and 2362 is independently
movable into engagement with a desired number of weight plates 2390
on a respective end of the dumbbell 2300. FIG. 104 shows how the
selector rod 2362 is moved and biased to remain in a desired
position relative to the base 2310. The support 2360 is provided
with a channel 2363 disposed above the opening 2326. A post 2346 is
rigidly secured to the selector rod 2362 and extends upward through
the channel 2363. A stop 2342 is rigidly secured to an intermediate
portion of the post 2346 and occupies a lowermost position within
the channel 2363. A button 2364 is slidably mounted on the post
2346, and opposite sides of a bottom plate 2365 on the button 2364
extend beneath opposing shoulders 2369 on the support 2360 to
retain the button 2364 within the channel 2363. A spring 2343 is
compressed between the plate 2365 and the stop 2342 to bias the
button 2364 upward against the shoulders 2369. The plate 2365 is
provided with opposite side tabs 2366 which project upward and
engage opposite side openings 2368 in the shoulders 2369. The
distance between openings 2368 is equal to the combined thickness
of a weight plate 2390 and a spacer 2323.
[0220] FIG. 98 shows a cradle 2350 suitable for holding the weight
plates 2380 and 2390 when not in use. The cradle 2350 includes a
bottom wall 2357 and spacers 2355 that extend upward from the
bottom wall 2357 and align with the walls 2323 and 2325 on the base
2310. The spacers 2355 are sized and configured to fit within the
notches 2315 in the walls 2323 and 2325 (shown in FIG. 97). A ridge
2359, having a V-shaped profile, extends upward from the bottom
wall 2357 of the cradle 2350 and cooperates with similarly sized
and shaped notches 2389 and 2399 in respective weight plates 2380
and 2390 to maintain same in position relative to one another.
[0221] Assuming that the base 2310 weighs ten pounds, and the
plates 2380 weigh two and one-half pounds each, and the plates 2390
weight five pounds each, the dumbbell 2300 is capable of providing
balanced weight resistance of ten pounds to sixty-five pounds in
increments of five pounds. If balance is not a critical concern,
the plates 2380 could alternatively weight one and one-quarter
pounds each in order to provide increments of two and one-half
pounds (with the five pound increments provided by engaging an
additional plate 2390 on only one end of the dumbbell 2300).
[0222] The foregoing embodiment 2300 may also be described in terms
of an adjustable exercise weight system, comprising: a base which
includes a handle and weight supports at opposite ends of the
handle; weights sized and configured for engagement by the weight
supports; and selector rods which are movable relative to the
handle and into engagement with any of the weights at respective
ends of the handle. The selector rods may be nested within
sidewalls which form the weight supports and/or may be stored
between the weights. In addition and/or the alternative, secondary
weights may be provided for selection by alternative means and
without interfering with operation of the selector rods. One such
secondary system includes opposite side selector segments which are
simultaneously movable into engagement with respective secondary
weights and/or are radially offset relative to an intermediate
segment interconnected therebetween.
[0223] Additional variations of the present invention are embodied
on a dumbbell designated as 300 in FIGS. 14-21. As shown in FIG.
16, the dumbbell 300 has a cylindrical bar 320 which is
approximately sixteen inches long and one inch in diameter. Rigid
plates 311 are secured to the bar 320 at locations about six inches
apart from one another, thereby defining an intermediate handle
portion and opposite distal portions.
[0224] Three weight supports or housings 330 are mounted on each of
the distal portions of the bar 320, adjacent a respective plate
311. As shown in FIGS. 17-19, each housing 330 has a rectangular
end wall 331 and opposite side walls or shoulders 337. A hole 332
is formed through the end wall 331 to receive the bar 320, and each
housing 330 is mounted on the bar 320 in such a manner that the end
wall 331 is relatively distant from the plates 311. The plates 311
have the same rectangular shape as the end walls 331.
[0225] The innermost housing 330 on each side of the bar 320
cooperates with a respective plate 311 to define a weight
compartment or slot. The intermediate housing 330 on each side of
the bar 320 cooperates with the end wall 331 of a respective
innermost housing 330 to likewise define a weight compartment or
slot. Similarly, the outermost housing 330 on each side of the bar
320 cooperates with the end wall 331 of a respective intermediate
housing 330 to likewise define a weight compartment or slot. Posts
338 on the housings 330 cooperate with holes 339 in adjacent
housings 330 and the plates 311 to maintain alignment and
facilitate interconnection of the parts. A fastener 302 is fixedly
mounted on each end of the bar 320 to prevent axial movement of the
housings 330 relative to the bar 320.
[0226] Leaf springs 334 are provided on opposite sides of the
housing 330. The leaf springs 334 may be described as inwardly
convex and/or as having inwardly projecting portions 335 which are
generally arcuate in shape. As explained below, the integral leaf
springs 334 perform both the latching and biasing functions which
required discrete components on the previous embodiments. Openings
336 are provided in the end wall 331 to facilitate injection
molding process which makes the housings 330.
[0227] Each compartment on the dumbbell 300 is sized and configured
to receive up to five pounds of weight, for example. In this
regard, each compartment may support five one-pound weights 340a,
or two two-pound weights 340b and one one-pound weight 340a, or one
five-pound weight 340c. In other words, up to thirty pounds of
weights 340a -340c may be inserted into the compartments on the
dumbbell 300. A base similar to that shown in FIG. 8 may be
provided for two of the dumbbells 300 and up to sixty pounds of
weights. On one contemplated embodiment, the base is sized and
configured to receive and accommodate four one-pound weights 340a,
eight two-pound weights 340b, and eight five-pound weights 340c.
Assuming that each "empty" dumbbell 300 weighs three pounds, this
arrangement provides two dumbbells 300 which may be adjusted
between three and thirty-three pounds in one pound increments.
[0228] The weight 340a is a twelve gauge steel plate approximately
six inches wide and seven inches high (the weights 240b are similar
in shape but twice as thick, and the weights 240c are similar in
shape but five times as thick). As shown in FIG. 20, a relatively
deep, central notch 342 is provided in each weight 340a -340c to
accommodate the bar 320. Relatively shallow, arcuate notches 345
are provided in opposite sides of each weight 340a-340c to interact
with the arcuate portions 335 of the leaf springs 334. In
particular, as the weight 340a is inserted into a compartment, the
peripheral edges of the weight 340a encounter the opposing leaf
springs 334 and force the latter away from one another. When the
arcuate portions 335 of the leaf springs 334 encounter the notches
345, the former snap toward one another and into the latter to bias
the weight 340a against further movement relative to the housing
330.
[0229] The weights 340a-340c may be removed from the compartments
by pushing the assembly downward against a floor surface. Under
such circumstances, the weights 340a-340c are first to encounter
the floor and thus, are subjected to an upward force equal in
magnitude to the downward force. When the force is sufficient to
overcome the biasing effect of the leaf springs 334, the arcuate
portions 335 deflect away from one another and out of the notches
345. Once the arcuate portions 335 are bearing against the linear
edges of the weights 340a-340c, the leaf springs 334 offer little
resistance to removal of the weights 340a-340c.
[0230] An alternative method of removing the weights 340a-340c from
the compartments may be described with reference to an optional
opening 348 shown in the weight 340a in FIG. 20 and an optional
tool 380 shown in FIG. 21. The tool 380 has a first distal portion
384 sized and configured for grasping, an intermediate portion or
offset 386, and a second distal portion 388 sized and configured
for insertion into the opening 348 in the weight 340a. The tool 380
essentially allows a user to "grab" any of the weights 340a-340c
and exert a sufficiently large pulling force to extract same from a
weight housing 330.
[0231] Among other things, those skilled in the art will recognize
that the dumbbell 300 provides convenient and reliable means for
holding the weights in place prior to selection; changing the
amount of weight engaged for exercise motion; supporting the
weights during exercise motion; and/or returning the weights to
their proper location at the conclusion of exercise motion.
[0232] Still another dumbbell constructed according to the
principles of the present invention is designated as 400 in FIGS.
22-29. The dumbbell 400 generally includes a handle assembly 410, a
plurality of weights 440a-440h which are selectively connected to
the handle assembly 410, and a base 490 which supports any of the
weights 440a-440h that are not connected to the handle assembly
410.
[0233] The handle assembly 410 includes first and second plates 411
which are oval in shape. The plates 411 are rigidly secured to a
cylindrical bar 420 at discrete locations spaced about six inches
apart from one another. The bar 420 has an outside diameter of
approximately one inch and is approximately sixteen inches long.
The plates 411 cooperate with the bar 420 to define an intermediate
bar portion which is sized and configured for grasping, as well as
opposite distal ends of the bar 420. A rod 418 is rigidly secured
between the plates 411 for reasons explained below.
[0234] A latch 430 is movably connected to the plates 411. The
latch 430 may be described as equal in length to the bar 420 and
extending parallel thereto. Optional end plates, similar in size
and shape to the plates 411, for example, may be secured to the
opposite, distal ends of the bar 420 to eliminate any perceived or
potential hazard posed by protruding ends. The latch 430 moves
within generally L-shaped slots 413 in the plates 411 (primarily in
the radial direction designated as Y in FIG. 24). The latch 430 is
movable between a "closed" position, shown in FIGS. 22-23, and an
"open" position, shown in FIGS. 24-25, as more fully explained
below.
[0235] The handle assembly 410 further includes a means for locking
the latch 430 in either position relative to the plates 411. In
particular, a relatively long tube 432 is movably mounted on the
latch 430 between the plates 411. One end of the tube 432 has a
relatively larger inside diameter which is bounded axially by a
shoulder or rim 434. A relatively smaller tubular member 436 is
mounted on the latch 430 proximate the larger diameter end of the
long tube 432. A helical spring 438 is disposed within the larger
diameter end of the tube 432 and compressed between the member 436
and the rim 434. The spring 438 biases the tube 432 away from the
member 436.
[0236] A peg 439 projects from an opposite end of the tube 432 and
parallel to the latch 430. As shown in FIG. 23, the peg 439 inserts
into a first, radially inward hole in the plate 411 to secure or
lock the latch 430 in the closed position. As shown in FIG. 25, the
peg 439 inserts into a second, radially outward hole in the plate
411 to secure or lock the latch 430 in the open position. Movement
of the tube 432 against the force of the spring 438 and toward the
member 436 unlocks the latch 430 and allows it to be moved between
the open position and the closed position. In other words, the
latch 430 moves in a first, radial direction Y between a closed
position and an open position, and the tube 432 moves in a second,
axial direction X to lock and unlock the latch 430.
[0237] Each of the weights 440a-440h includes identical first and
second plates 444, and a respective connector rod 446a-446h rigidly
interconnected therebetween. Each plate 444 may be described as
disc-shaped and includes a first, relatively large notch 442 to
receive and accommodate the handle bar 420, and a second, generally
L-shaped notch 443 which coincides in size and shape with a portion
of the slots 413 in the plates 411.
[0238] The rod 446a is relatively short, and the weight 440a is
disposed between the plates 444 on the other weights 440b-440h. The
rod 446h is relatively long, and the plates 444 on the weight 440h
are disposed outside the other weights 440a-440g. The rods
446b-446g and the plates 444 on the weights 440b-440g fall in
between these two extremes.
[0239] The weights 440a-440h are supported by a base 490 when not
carried away together with the handle assembly 410. The base 490
has a flat bottom surface 492 and an arcuate top surface 494. The
top surface 494 coincides with the lower periphery of the plates
411 and 444 and supports same in cup-like fashion. The base 490 has
opposing side walls or surfaces 496 and 498 which extend in
convergent fashion from opposite edges of the bottom surface 492 to
opposite edges of the top surface 494. The side walls 496 and 498
cooperate with the rods 446h and 418, respectively, to maintain the
weights 440a-440h and the handle assembly 410 in relative
alignment. In particular, when the rods 446h and 418 abut
respective side walls 496 and 498, the slots 413 in the plates 411
are disposed within the confines of the notches 442 in the plates
444 on the weight 440h. The same is true for each of the other
weights 440a-440g having a respective rod 446a-446g rotated as far
as possible toward the side wall 496.
[0240] A peg or stop 416 is provided on each of the plates 411 to
facilitate alignment of the notches 443 relative to the slots 413.
The pegs 416 project toward one another from respective plates 411
at a radial distance from the bar 420 equal to the radial distance
between the rods 440a-440h and the bar 420. As a result, the rod
446a encounters the pegs 416 as the weight 440a is rotated relative
to the handle assembly 410 and away from the surface 496 on the
base 490. When the rod 446a abuts the pegs 416, the notches 443 in
the plates 444 on the weight 440a align with the slots 413 in the
plates 411, thereby allowing the latch 430 to occupy the radially
inward ends of the notches 443, as well as the radially inward ends
of the slots 413.
[0241] FIGS. 112-115 show a dumbbell 2400 having a selector pin
2480 with radially offset weight engaging portions (like the
dumbbell 2000), and weight plates 2440-2444 that are selectively
rotatable into and out of orientations suitable for engagement by
the selector pin 2480 (like the previous embodiment 400).
[0242] The weight plates 2440-2444 weigh different amounts but have
the same cross-section. In particular, each of the plates 2440-2444
may be described in terms of a trapezoidal upper half and a
semi-circular lower half. A central edge portion of the lower half
is interrupted by a flat bottom surface 2445. Opposite side
shoulders 2446 and 2447 are defined at opposite side junctures
between the two halves. An elongate slot 2449 extends into a flat
upper surface of the upper half, disposed opposite the bottom
surface 2445. The slot 2449 defines an angle of fifteen degrees
relative to the parallel top and bottom surfaces. A hole 2448
extends through the upper half proximate the top surface and along
a center line drawn perpendicular to the top and bottom
surfaces.
[0243] For weight plates 2440-2444 weighing 20 pounds, 10 pounds, 5
pounds, 21/2 pounds, and 11/4 pounds, respectively, the combined
pairs of weights 2440-2444 can be selected in any combination
between zero and 771/2 pounds in increments of 21/2 pounds. In this
instance, the depicted weight plates 2442 and 2444 are one-half as
dense as the depicted weight plates 2441 and 2443. The reduced
density may be obtained by using a less dense material to make the
plates 2442 and 2444, and/or by removing material from the interior
of the plates 2442 and 2444.
[0244] The base 2410 includes a handle 2420 having a longitudinal
axis, axially distributed spacers 2416 secured to the handle 2420,
and the selector pin 2480. The spacers 2416 have round tops and
square bottoms, and cooperate to define weight receiving gaps 2414
therebetween. The bottoms of the spacers 2416 are sized and
configured to fit inside respective dividers on the cradle 2490.
Each spacer 2416 is provided with a hole 2418 similar in size to
the holes 2448 in the weights and disposed at the same radial
distance from the handle 2420. Openings 2417 are provided in one of
the end spacers 2416 to facilitate withdrawal of the selector rod
2480.
[0245] The selector rod 2480 has weight engaging portions 2481 and
2482 that are relatively larger in diameter than the radial
portions 2483 and 2484 the intermediate portion (nested inside the
handle 2420). An advantage of this arrangement is that the
relatively thicker portions 2481 and 2482 are well suited for
supporting weight, and the relatively thinner portions are less
obtrusive. The weight bearing portions 2481 and 2482 are axially
movable into and out of respective weight accommodating gaps 2414
to selectively latch any desired weight plates 2440-2444 to the
base 2410. The selector rod 2480 may be latched to the base 2410 by
any suitable means discussed with reference to other
embodiments.
[0246] When free of the base 410, the weight plates 2440-2444 rest
in a cradle or weight holder 2490. The cradle 2490 provides
individual weight compartments 2494 at opposite ends of a bottom
panel 2492. Each compartment 2494 is bounded by an arcuate bottom
wall 2491 and U-shaped dividers which include a transverse portion
2495 and opposite upright portions 2493. The arcuate bottom wall
2491 extends upward on opposite sides of the cradle 2490 and
terminates in opposite side ledges 2496 and 2497.
[0247] As shown in FIG. 114, when the shoulder 2447 on the weight
plate 2440 is rotated against the ledge 2497 on the cradle 2490,
the slot 2449 extends vertically upward and facilitates upward and
downward movement of the handle 2420 relative to the plate 2440. As
shown in FIG. 115, when the shoulder 2446 on the weight plate 2440
is rotated against the ledge 2496 on the cradle 2490, the hole 2448
in the plate 2440 aligns with the hole 2418 in the spacer 2416 and
facilitates engagement of the plate 2440 by the selector rod 2480.
Upon insertion of the selector rod 2480 and upward movement of the
handle 2420, the plate 2440 is withdrawn from the cradle 2490 and
movable together with the handle 2420 for exercise purposes.
[0248] Among other things, the subject invention may be described,
for example, in terms of an adjustable exercise weight system,
comprising: a base which includes a handle and weight supports at
opposite ends of the handle; weights sized and configured to
interact with the weight supports in complementary fashion; and a
selector rod which is movable relative to the handle and into
engagement with any of the weights which are moved to a ready
position relative to the base, without engaging any of the weights
which occupy a rest position relative to the base. The weights may
be selected in any combination and/or the selector rod may be
configured to simultaneously engage weights on both ends of the
handle.
[0249] The present invention may also be described in terms of
various methods of adjusting resistance to exercise, based upon one
or more of the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, one such
method involves providing a handle assembly with a movable selector
rod; maintaining weight plates in spaced relationship relative to
the handle assembly; moving the selector rod out of a weight
engagement position; effecting an alignment change between the
selector rod and the weight plates; and moving the selector rod
back into the weight engagement position to engage a desired number
of the weight plates, as determined by alignment of the selector
rod relative to the weight plates. Recognizing that the weights
plates are provided at each end of the handle assembly, the method
may provide a selector rod at each end of the handle assembly.
Under such circumstances, a user is not required to engage the same
number or combination of weight plates at each end of the handle
assembly, and the independent selection at each end of the handle
assembly facilitates adjustments by one-half as much weight, but
sacrifices balance in the process.
[0250] The present invention may be also be said to provide a
method of adjusting resistance to exercise, comprising the steps of
providing a handle assembly with a longitudinal axis and a movable
selector rod; providing multiple weight plates in axially spaced
relationship relative to the handle assembly; and without
interrupting the axially spaced relationship between the weight
plates and the handle assembly, changing the relative spatial
relationship between the selector rod and the weight plates to
latch any combination of the weight plates to the handle
assembly.
[0251] The present invention may also be said to provide a method
of adjusting resistance to exercise, comprising the steps of
providing a handle assembly with a movable selector rod; providing
a first weight next to the handle assembly; providing a second
weight next to the first weight; selectively maneuvering the
selector rod to secure only the first weight to the handle
assembly; and selectively maneuvering the selector rod to secure
only the second weight to the handle assembly.
[0252] The present invention may also be described in terms of
providing a base sized and configured to support a plurality of
weights in either of two positions; providing a handle assembly
with a handle bar and a movable latch; selectively moving a desired
number of the weights to an "engageable" position relative to the
base; and moving the latch into engagement with the weights
occupying the "engageable" position. In the alternative, the
weights may remain stationary, and the selector rod may be moved to
engage a different number of weights. In any of these methods, a
further step may involve providing a biasing force and/or a
structural interconnection which encourages the latch and the
weights to remain interengaged.
[0253] Various stages of many such methods are illustrated with
reference to the dumbbell 400, for example. In FIGS. 22-23, the
latch 430 occupies the closed position relative to the plates 411
and is locked in that position by the peg 439. In FIG. 24, the
latch 430 is locked in the open position, and the weights 440a-440h
are free to rotate relative to the handle assembly 410 and/or the
base 490. In FIGS. 25-26, the first two weights 440a-440b are shown
rotated toward the pegs 416 until their notches 443 align with the
slots 413. In FIG. 27, the latch 430 again occupies the closed
position and is locked in that position by the peg 439. In FIGS.
28-29, the handle assembly 410 and weights 440a-440b are moved away
from the base 490 and the remaining "unselected" weights
440c-440h.
[0254] With reference to the dumbbell 400, further method steps may
include, for example, maintaining each of the plates 444 a fixed
distance from the handle assembly 410 and/or adjacent plates 411
and 444. In this regard, spacers may be provided on the handle
assembly 410 and/or on the plates 444 themselves. Methods and/or
method steps may also be described with reference to additional
and/or other embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the present
invention discloses a method of providing adjustable resistance to
exercise involving the steps of disposing weights on opposite sides
of a handle; supporting a desired number of weights against
movement in a first direction relative to the handle; and applying
a biasing force in a second, orthogonal direction to maintain the
support for the weights.
[0255] Yet another variation is to arrange a plurality of loose
weight plates in a row; move the desired number of plates upward
relative to the remainder so that holes through the displaced
plates align with holes in plates on a handle assembly; and insert
a rod through the aligned holes to connect the displaced plates to
the handle assembly. Moreover, clips may be used to connect
multiple weight plates or weight housings to build weight modules
which, in turn, may be selectively connected to a handle assembly
or within compartments on a handle assembly.
[0256] FIGS. 116-118 show still another dumbbell 2500 constructed
according to the principles of the present invention. The dumbbell
2500 is made from two identical halves that telescope relative to
one another and cooperate to define a base 2510. In this regard,
first and second posts 2526 are secured to one of the halves and
slidable relative to the other half. Stops may be provided to
prevent complete separation of the two halves. Each half includes a
handle portion 2520 and U-shaped shells 2530 connected to opposite
ends of the handle portion 2520. An alignment tab 2522 extends
outward from each handle portion 2520 and toward a receiving slot
in the opposite handle portion 2520. Also, a depression 2524 is
formed in each handle portion 2520 to facilitate separation of the
two halves from one another.
[0257] Each shell 2530 includes opposite end walls and an
intermediate side wall which cooperate with their respective
counterparts to define an open-ended weight compartment 2534. A
ridge 2536 extends along each side wall, parallel to the handle
2520. Also, axially spaced dividers 2535 project outward from each
side wall, transverse to the handle 2520. Each of the dividers 2535
is wider and deeper than the ridges 2536.
[0258] When the halves of the base 2510 are separated as shown in
FIG. 116, a desired number of weight plates 2540 may be inserted
into the compartments 2534. The dividers 2535 are equally spaced on
this embodiment 2500 but in the alternative, they could be arranged
to accommodate weight plates of more than one thickness. A
representative weight plate 2540 is shown in FIG. 118. The weight
plate 2540 may be described as a generally square plate having
horizontal top and bottom edges, vertical intermediate side edges
2543, and tapered upper and lower side edges 2542 and 2544.
Rectangular notches 2546 are formed in the intermediate side edges
2543 equidistance from the top and bottom edges. The notches 2546
are sized and configured to receive respective ridges 2536 on the
base 2510 when the two halves of the base 2510 are brought
together. The user's grasp on the handle 2520 prevents the base
2510 from separating and thereby retains the weights 2540 within
the compartments 2534. In addition, tension springs may act upon
the posts 2526 to urge the two halves of the base 2510 toward one
another.
[0259] The subject invention may also be described, for example, in
terms of an adjustable exercise weight system, comprising: a base
having a handle and weight supports at opposite ends of the handle,
wherein the weight supports define weight receiving gaps
therebetween; and weights sized and configured to insert between
the weight supports when the weight supports define relatively
wider gaps therebetween, as measured transverse to the handle, and
to remain captured between the weight supports when the weights
supports define relatively narrower gaps therebetween.
[0260] FIGS. 119-121 show a dumbbell 2600 which is similar in some
respects to the dumbbell 2500. The dumbbell 2600 includes a handle
2620 and weight receiving compartments 2634 disposed at opposite
ends of the handle 2620. An inside wall 2621 is rigidly secured to
each end of the handle 2620. A bottom support 2633 is rigidly
secured between the inside walls 2621 and projects across the
bottom ends of the compartments 2634. Outside walls 2622 and 2623
are rigidly secured to respective ends of the bottom support 2633.
A first side support 2631 is similarly secured between the inside
walls 2621 and the outside walls 2622 and 2623. A ridge 2636
extends along the first side support 2631, parallel to the handle
2620.
[0261] Axially spaced dividers 2635 project outward from both the
first side support 2631 and the bottom support 2633, in a direction
transverse to the handle 2620. The dividers 2635 on the bottom
support 2633 are aligned with the dividers 2635 on the first side
support 2631, and each of the dividers 2635 is wider and deeper
than the ridge 2636.
[0262] An opposite, second side support 2632 has a first end which
is pivotally connected to the outside wall 2622 by means of a bolt
2651 or other suitable fastener. A hole 2655 extends through an
opposite, second end 2653 of the second side support 2632 to
receive a pin (not shown) on the outside wall 2623. The pin is
secured to a spring-biased block 2625 which is slidable upward from
its position shown in FIG. 120, against a spring bias, to release
the second side support 2632. A similar ridge 2636 extends along
the second side support 2632, parallel to the handle 2620.
[0263] When the second side support 2632 is pivoted away from the
remainder of the base 2610 as shown in FIG. 121, a desired number
of weight plates (such as the plates 2540, for example) may be
inserted into the compartments 2634. The dividers 2635 are equally
spaced on this embodiment 2600 but in the alternative, they could
be arranged to accommodate weight plates of more than one
thickness. Subsequent to upward movement of the pin and block 2625
(in the direction of arrow A26), the second side support 2632 is
pivoted into the position shown in FIG. 119 and secured in place by
releasing the spring-biased pin and block 2625. The opposing ridges
2636 cooperate with the notches 2546 in the weight plates 2540 to
retain the plates 2540 within the compartments 2634.
[0264] The present invention has been described with reference to
specific embodiments and particular applications. However, this
disclosure will enable those skilled in the art to derive
additional embodiments and/or applications. Moreover, features of
the various methods and/or embodiments may be mixed and matched in
numerous ways to arrive at additional variations of the present
invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is to be
limited only to the extent of the following claims.
* * * * *