U.S. patent application number 09/864511 was filed with the patent office on 2002-02-28 for programmable exercise machine.
Invention is credited to Germanton, Kyle M., Teich, Rudor.
Application Number | 20020025888 09/864511 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26908444 |
Filed Date | 2002-02-28 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020025888 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Germanton, Kyle M. ; et
al. |
February 28, 2002 |
Programmable exercise machine
Abstract
An exercise machine has automatic and programmable resistance
selection apparatus with vertically aligned weights that are
selectable by rotably engaging a lift pin to select each weight
stack. The exercise machine further includes a control panel from
which the number of weights to be lifted can be ordered by the
user. Alternatively the number of weights being lifted may be
programmed from a remote location.
Inventors: |
Germanton, Kyle M.;
(Kinnelon, NJ) ; Teich, Rudor; (West Orange,
NJ) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GOTTLIEB RACKMAN & REISMAN PC
270 MADISON AVENUE
8TH FLOOR
NEW YORK
NY
100160601
|
Family ID: |
26908444 |
Appl. No.: |
09/864511 |
Filed: |
May 24, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60213839 |
Jun 23, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/1 ;
482/99 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/063 20151001;
A63B 21/0628 20151001 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/1 |
International
Class: |
A63B 015/02 |
Claims
We claim:
1. An exercise machine comprising: a substantially vertical guide
rod; a set of weights arranged in a vertically stacked relationship
and movable along said guide rod; a motor-driven selector having a
plurality of positions, said selector being arranged and
constructed to engage only one of said weights in each position; a
motor coupled to said selector, said motor being arranged to
selectively shift said selector between said positions thereby
selecting said number of weights, while at the same time not being
mounted to be carried by the weights; and a lifting member having a
distal and a proximal end, said distal end being coupled to said
weights to lift a number of said weights as determined by said
selector when a force is applied to said proximal end.
2. The machine of claim 1 wherein said weights are aligned to
define a passageway and said selector is disposed in said
passageway.
3. The machine of claim 2 wherein each said weight has a coupling
element extending into said passageway and said selector is adapted
to selectively engage said coupling element.
4. The machine of claim 3 wherein the coupling elements are offset
for each weight, with each weight being uniquely associated with
coupling elements having predetermined angles.
5. The machine of claim 4 further comprising a control unit in
communication with the motor to transmit a selection signal to the
motor to shift said selector to select the number of weights.
6. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein the selector comprises a
sleeve placed so as to ride on said guide rod; an array of lifting
pins placed on said sleeve to engage said coupling element; and a
lifting plate coupled to the distal end of the elongated member and
having an opening through which said sleeve is secured.
7. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein the weights do not put a
load on the motor as the weights are selected.
8. The exercise machine of claim 7 wherein the motor is a stepper
motor.
9. An exercise machine comprising: a plurality of weights, said
weights being stacked in a vertical arrangement and defining a
cavity extending through said weights, each weight having a
coupling member extending into said cavity, said coupling members
being angularly offset from each other, said weights being movable
vertically along a vertical axis; a motor-driven selector, disposed
in said cavity and having a plurality of angular positions, said
selector engaging only one of said weights in each said angular
position; an elongated member having a proximal end adapted to be
held by a user and a distal end coupled to said weights, wherein
when the user applies a force on said elongated member, a number of
said weights are moved vertically, said number being determined by
the position of said selector; an actuator coupled to said
selector, said actuator being adapted to move said selector to one
of said angular positions in response to commands, said actuator
including an electric motor adapted to rotate said selector to one
of said positions in response to said commands, said electric motor
being mounted as to not be carried by the weights.
10. The exercise machine of claim 9 further comprising a controller
in communication with the actuator to retain said commands and upon
request transfer said commands to the actuator.
11. The exercise machine of claim 10 wherein said controller has a
keypad interface to receive said commands from said user.
12. The exercise machine of claim 11 wherein the controller has a
network interface to receive the commands from an external
computing system.
13. The exercise machine of claim 12 wherein the commands detail an
exercise regimen.
14. An exercise machine comprising: a substantially vertical guide
rod; a first set of weights arranged in a stacked relationship and
movable along said guide rod; a first motor-driven selector having
a first plurality of positions, said first selector being arranged
and constructed to engage only one weight of said first set of
weights in each position; a second set of weights arranged in a
stacked relationship and movable parallel to said guide rod; a
second motor-driven selector having a second plurality of
positions, said secondary selector being arranged and constructed
to engage only one of said secondary weights in each position of
said second plurality of positions; an elongated member having a
distal and a proximal end, said distal end being coupled to said
weights to lift a first number of said first weights and a second
number of said second weights as determined by said first and
second selectors when a force is applied to said proximal end; a
first stepper motor coupled to said first selector, said first
motor being arranged to selectively shift said first selector
between said positions thereby selecting said first number, said
first motor mounted as to not be carried by said first set of
weights; and a second stepper motor coupled to said second
selector, said second motor being arranged to selectively shift
said second selector between said positions thereby selecting said
second number, said second motor mounted as to not be carried by
said secondary weights.
15. The machine of claim 14 wherein said first set of weights are
aligned to define a first passageway and said second set of weights
is nested in said first passageway.
16. The machine of claim 14 wherein said first and second sets of
weights each define a first and second passageway, respectively,
and wherein said fist selector is disposed in said first passageway
and said second selector is disposed in said second passageway.
17. The machine of claim 16 wherein each said weights weight has a
tab extending into one of said passageways and each said selector
is adapted to selectively engage said tab.
18. The machine of claim 17 wherein the tabs of each set are
angularly offset with each weight of each set being associated with
a corresponding angular tab position.
19. The machine of claim 18 further comprising a control unit in
communication with said motors to transmit a selection signals to
each said motor to select said first and second numbers.
20. The exercise machine of claim 14 further comprising a lifting
plate coupled to the distal end of the elongated member and a
coupling member connecting said plate to said selectors.
21. The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein the primary and
secondary selectors comprise: a sleeve placed riding on said
vertical guide rail and secured in an opening through; and an array
of lifting pins placed on said sleeve to selectively engage said
coupling element.
22. The exercise machine of claim 14 wherein weights do not put a
load on the stepper motors as the weights are selected.
23. An exercise machine comprising: a substantially vertical guide
rod; a set of weights arranged in a vertical stacked relationship
and movable along said guide rod; a selector having a plurality of
positions constructed to engage only one of said weights in each
position; a lifting member having a distal end and a proximal end,
said distal end being coupled to said weights to lift a number of
said weights as determined by said selector when a force is applied
to said proximal end; and a control panel for controlling the
selector, said control panel being remote from the rest of the
machine.
24. The machine of claim 23 wherein the control panel is connected
to the rest of the machine by a cable.
25. The machine of claim 23 wherein the control panel is connected
to the rest of the machine by an RF link.
Description
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
patent application Ser. No. 60/213839 filed Jun. 23, 2000, which is
incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] This invention relates to an exercise machine that can be
adjusted easily for various resistance levels. More particularly,
this invention relates to remotely adjustable or programmable
resistance exercise machines.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] Physical exercise for strength training or bodybuilding
consists of a sequence of movements that begins at a rest position,
provides a stress on a particular muscle or group of muscles for a
period of time and then ends at the rest position.
[0006] There are at least three types of machine-based
exercises:
[0007] 1. Isokinetic--The machine is programmed to pace the cycle
at a constant speed. If the user moves faster, he or she encounters
a higher resistance. If the user moves slower, he or she encounters
less resistance. This type of exercise is currently not favored for
muscle build-up.
[0008] 2. Isometric--The user exerts a force with no movement (e.g.
against a wall). This type of exercise is used in physical therapy
where damage to the ligaments prohibits large movements. It is not
applicable for general muscle building.
[0009] 3. Isocentric--The machine provides a constant force or
torque as a resistance. This is currently the most desirable type
of exercise for muscle building.
[0010] Various methods of generating constant resistance for
machines that can be used to perform isocentric exercises have been
suggested in the art. These include machines relying on magnetic
clutch resistance, direct DC motor resistance, hydraulic and
pneumatic resistance (both passive resistance and work against
active pressure sources), springs, weights and combinations of
these technologies.
[0011] Market research indicates a strong preference by users for
machines that use weights as the active resistance element. The
smooth and even operation of well-designed weight machines has been
the key to their acceptance. Some advanced technology machines
based on direct motor drive, as illustrated by U.S. Pat. No.
5,020,794, Englehardt et al., have gained limited acceptance in
upscale professional gyms. However, the inherent cost of the
components, the electronics and the power requirements to operate
such machines have made them uneconomical for the home market.
[0012] While selectable weight stacks, and even motor-driven
selectable weight stacks, have been disclosed in the prior art,
they suffer from several disadvantages.
[0013] U.S. Pat. No. 5,876,313 (Krull) shows a radial weight
selector incorporated into exercise machines. The Krull patent
shows selector pins engaged such that all the weights that are
selected are engaged simultaneously. Although Krull further
demonstrates that a single weight stack is not adequate to cover
the range of resistance that is required for an exercise machine
and illustrates a dual weight stack having weights that are placed
side by side to achieve a full weight range, Krull utilizes a bulky
and expensive design that requires four guide rods. The rods must
be manufactured of a strong metal, be precisely machined to be
straight, then mounted precisely. Further, each weight must have
low-friction linear bearings to allow the weights to move smoothly
along the axis that is dictated by the guide rods. The two stacks
placed side-by side require a large footprint. The combined stacks
are not likely to fit in the footprint of most common weight
exercise machines, thus requiring a complete redesign of such
machines.
[0014] Krull teaches a selector assembly that is rotated either by
a motor, which is mounted on the selector, or by dropping the
assembly onto a set of gears that are rotated mechanically or by a
motor. The first solution requires that the motors be lifted along
with the weights. This approach is undesirable because of the extra
weight of the motors, motor stress, and the difficulties associated
with providing power to a reciprocating motor. The second solution,
where the selector engages a set of gears in the base, requires a
precise alignment of the gears and will likely cause the selector
to be misaligned after the completion of a number of cycles during
which the selector may be rotated and can ultimately cause a
critical failure.
[0015] Other Krull patents disclose exercise machines that address
weight selection mechanisms. These also suffer from various
disadvantages. These patents include U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,935,048,
5,944,642 and 6,033,350.
[0016] The patents to Lowe (U.S. Pat. No. 6,117,049), Scaramucci
(U.S. Pat. No. 6,015,367) and La Lanne (U.S. Pat. No. 3,647,209),
as well as U.S.S.R. Patent 1,389,789, are further examples of
selectable weight stacks. The La Lanne patent discloses a radial
weight selection mechanism; the Scaramucci patent discloses a
weight mechanism selected by hooks; the Lowe patent discloses a
motor-driven mechanism driving a threaded shaft to select the
weights; and the U.S.S.R. patent discloses spring-load radial
plungers for the weight selection.
[0017] These patents suffer from the disadvantages of providing
relatively complex mechanisms. Moreover, the Lowe patent, which
discloses a motor-driven selection mechanism, suffers from the
further disadvantage of requiring the motor to be mounted on the
weights and for the motor to move, as the weights are lifted.
[0018] As will be explained hereinafter, the present invention
combines the use of weights with the ability to remotely select the
weights, for example by a motor-driven selector mechanism, while at
the same time avoiding the disadvantages of the prior art. The
technology also lends itself to mechanized selection of the weight
using flexible cables and mechanical dials. An application for such
a mechanism is found in commonly available exercise machines where
direct access to the weight stack is limited due to the elaborate
structure of these machines. Because the resistance is generated by
the pull of gravity on the weights, the design is energy efficient
and is only marginally more expensive than a conventional,
pin-selected weight stack machine.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0019] An object of this invention is to provide an exercise
machine having remote and programmable resistance selection.
[0020] A further object of this invention is to provide an exercise
machine having a motor-driven selector for selecting the weights in
which the motor does not move with the weights as the weights are
raised or lowered.
[0021] Another object of this invention is to provide an exercise
machine with nestable, multiple weight stacks that are selectable
by engaging a single lift pin pair to select each weight of a
weight stack.
[0022] The exercise machine of this invention uses weights as a
resistance against which the various muscles are exercised.
Although not limited to a particular market, the goal is to provide
a machine that can be economically offered to the home market while
still providing the advantages of more expensive exercise machines.
One advantage is to provide an exercise machine with programmable
resistance capabilities. In an exercise machine with programmable
resistance capabilities, the user can select the desired resistance
through a panel from the seat. A complete workout can be
pre-programmed and the user follows the machine in "Automatic" mode
very much like working with a personal trainer. By automating the
resistance selection, the exercise machine can be programmed
remotely (for example, from a personal computer or from the
Internet). This allows the exercise machine to become part of a
comprehensive regimen of diet and exercise, which may be planned by
experts (or expert software). The exercise machine with
programmable resistance capabilities also allows the actual
performance of the user to be fed back to the regimen planner for
follow-up modification or to display the actual execution in
comparison with the original plan.
[0023] To accomplish these and other objects an electronically
selectable exercise machine has a coupling mechanism such as a
handle connected to a cable at its proximal end arranged to
transfer a resistance to a user of the electronically selectable
exercise apparatus. The machine includes a lifting plate connected
to the cable at its distal end and one or more sets of weights
arranged in stacks. A motor-driven selector is provided which is
arranged to engage one weight in each stack. Since the weights are
stacked on each other, if the selected weight is lifted, all the
other weights of that stack disposed above the selected weight are
lifted simultaneously by the plate. The motor is located such that
it does not move with the weights as the weights are raised or
lowered. In a particularly advantageous arrangement, two sets of
stacks are provided which are nested together to reduce space. The
weights of each stack can reciprocate vertically along two guide
rods.
[0024] Each weight of each stack has an opening or cavity receiving
one of the guide rods. A selector in the form of a cylindrical
member is also disposed in this opening.
[0025] The selector also includes two sets of lifting pins. The
weights have tabs, each weight of a particular set having a
uniquely oriented set of tabs. The selector has a set of unique
angular positions, the number of positions being equal to the
number of weights in a stack plus one. In each of its positions
except one, the selector then engages the tabs of one of the
weights. As the selector is lifted, it lifts with it the weight
corresponding to the current position of the selector and all the
weights disposed above that particular tab. The selector is rotated
to a predetermined angular position when the stacks are at the
bottom of the equipment. The rotation is accomplished by using
stationary motors that may be controlled locally or remotely.
[0026] The exercise machine has a programmable control unit in
communication with the motors, and a display that is used to show
the current weight setting of the machine and provide other data
regarding the operation of the machine. The control unit further
includes an input keypad to allow the input of a schedule of
resistances provided to said users, and a network interface in
communication with a computing system to record a user's progress
in exercising and to calculate future exercise regimen.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a side view of a weight lifting machine of this
invention.
[0028] FIG. 2 is a cut away plan view of the weight stack used in
the machine of FIG. 1 taken along line 2-2.
[0029] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the weight lifting machine
of this invention.
[0030] FIG. 4 is a cut away view of the weight stack of the machine
of FIG. 1 taken along line 4-4.
[0031] FIG. 5 illustrates an enlarged perspective view of the
weight stack and details of the selector mechanism.
[0032] FIG. 6 is a top view of the secondary weight stack of this
invention.
[0033] FIG. 7 is a cut away view of the weight stack of FIG. 6
taken along line 7-7.
[0034] FIG. 8 illustrates the weight stack with one large weight
plate and two small weight plates selected according to this
invention.
[0035] FIG. 9 illustrates the weight stack with five large weight
plates and six small weight plates selected according to this
invention.
[0036] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the electronic control and
display circuit for the programmable weight lifting machine of this
invention.
[0037] FIG. 11 is a cross sectional view of a weight plate showing
the lifting ring and lift tabs of this invention.
[0038] FIG. 12 is a diagram of a lift tab of this invention.
[0039] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the weight selector of this
invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0040] FIG. 1 shows an exercise machine 100 of this invention
incorporating a selectable weight stack 101. The user pulls on
handle 105 that is connected at the proximal end of a cable or
similar elongated member 110 to the weight stack 101. The machine
100 further includes a control unit 102 having a user display panel
103. The control unit is connected to a drive unit (discussed in
more detail below, in conjunction with FIG. 3) that is used to
select the "weight" to be lifted. Usually, at least some of the
weights of the weight stack 101 in accordance with a choice made by
the user will be selected. However, where only minimal weight is
desired, the user may select only the top plate of the weight stack
and not the weights, per se.
[0041] As shown in more detail in FIG. 3, the machine 100 includes
a vertical post 106 with a longitudinal guide bar 119. The post 106
supports a horizontal plate 108. Plate 108 supports two pulleys
117, 118. The machine 101 further includes a base 158 which
supports the post 106 as well as two vertical guide rods 111,
112.
[0042] The weight stack 101 consists of weights which are
selectively coupled to a plate 113 as discussed in more detail
below. The stack 101 is arranged and constructed so that it is
movable vertically up or down along the two guide rods 111, 112 and
guide bar 119. The cable 110 is trained over pulleys 117 and 118
and then passes through a hold in plate 108. It then extends
downwardly between the guide rods 111 and 112 and is attached to
the plate 113 of stack 101 by a hook 114 at the distal end of the
cable. As the user pulls on cable 110 with handle 105, the cable
110 forces the plate 113 and any weights attached thereto to rise.
Thus the force exerted by the user on the handle is determined by
the number of weights attached to the plate 113 (as well as the
weight of the plate 113 itself). As the user allows the handle to
move back toward the plate 108, the plate 113 and weights attached
thereto are lowered toward the base 158. Bushings 115 and 116
attached to plate 113 are provided and act as linear bearings, to
reduce the friction between the guide rods 111 and 112 and the lift
plate 113, as the weight stack is raised and lowered.
[0043] FIG. 2 provides a horizontal cross sectional view of the
weight stack 101, looking downwardly just below plate 113 and FIG.
4 shows a vertical cross sectional view of the weight stack 101. As
can be seen in these Figures, the weight stack 101 includes plate
113, a set or plurality of vertically aligned outer weights 121
forming an outer weight stack, a set or plurality of vertically
aligned inner weights 122 forming an inner weight stack and two
selectors 141, 150. The selectors 141, 150, disposed in cavities or
passageways in the weights (one such cavity or passageway being
shown in FIG. 7), are used to selectively couple some or all of the
outer and inner weights 121, 122 to the plate 113.
[0044] As seen more clearly in FIG. 2, each outer weight 121 has a
round opening for a corresponding inner weight 122. Both weights
121, 122 are free to move vertically, independently of each other,
along rods 111, 112. Both weights 121 and 122 are prevented from
rotating about their respective vertical axes by guide bar 119,
guide notch 129 (formed in the inner weight 122) and guide notch
129A (formed in outer weight 121). While the inner weights 122 are
generally circular in shape, each outer weight has a somewhat
oblong configuration, with straight sides 502 and curved ends 504
and 506. End 504 defines a greater radius of curvature than end
506. This shape advantageously presents a center of gravity for the
weight at guide 111, thereby preventing binding as the outer
weights are raised or lowered about the guide.
[0045] As seen in FIG. 4, selector 150 has at its top end a lip 128
which rests on bushing 116. The bushing 116 is made of a
low-friction material such as nylon, and allows the selector 150 to
rotate freely with respect to the lift plate 113 and guide rod 112.
Selector 141 has a similar lip 115A resting on bushing 115. Bushing
115 is also made of nylon and allows the selector 141 to rotate
with respect to the plate 113 and guide rod 111. Lip 128 is
positioned to abut the top surface of plate 113. Accordingly, as
plate 113 is raised by a user pulling on cable 110, the plate lifts
selector 150 which, in turn, allows the user to raise the weights
selected by selector 150.
[0046] Details of the selector mechanism used to select the weights
coupled to the plate 113 are now described in conjunction with the
Figures. As shown in FIG. 13, the selector 150 consists of a
cylindrical wall 150A on which there are mounted an array of lift
pins 142. The array is partitioned into two sets of diametrically
opposed pins 144a and 144b. All pins 144a are vertically aligned
and all pins 144b are vertically aligned along the surface 150A as
shown. In addition each pin 144a is aligned horizontally with a
respective pin 144b. The vertical spacing between the pins 144 in
the array 142 matches the height of the weights 121,122 in the
stack 101.
[0047] Each inner weight 122 includes a tab ring 125. As shown in
FIGS. 5 and 11 the tab rings 125 are press-fit into holes 121A of
the respective weights 122 from their respective underside. Due to
a slight taper (shown somewhat exaggerated in FIG. 11), each ring
125 is wedged onto the respective weight 122. Each tab ring is
provided with two tabs 126a, 126b diametrically opposed to each
other. The tab ring 125 defines a hole 126c for the selector
150.
[0048] When the selector 150 is inserted through the hole 126c, two
appropriately aligned lift pins 144a, 144b register with the tabs
126a and 126b on tab-ring 125. Therefore, when the selector 150
moves up, it lifts the weight 122 with it through the tabs 126a,
126b.
[0049] FIG. 12 shows details of the tabs 126a and 126b of FIGS. 5
and 11. Tab 126a is formed of a structural material such as steel
to be able to support the entire weight stack 101. For example,
this weight may be 300 lbs. or greater. To support the weight of
the stack the lifting tab should have a width W.sub.1 of
approximately 1.5 times the diameter of the selector pin. For
example, a 300-lb. weight stack requires a 0.250" selector pin,
thus the lift tab 126a is approximately 0.4". To make the lift pins
144a, 144b self-securing, a seating notch 128 is formed in the
lifting tab 126. The seating notch 128 must be wide enough to
accommodate any tolerances in the alignment of the selector pin.
Therefore, the seating notch 128 should be at least 20% larger in
diameter than the selector pin. In the case described above the
width W.sub.2 of the notch is approximately 0.3" in diameter. The
outer weights 121 are provided with identical tab rings and tabs to
match lift pins on selector 141.
[0050] FIG. 7 provides a sectional view of inner weight stack 129
comprised of inner weights 122, each inner weight 122 being nested
in a corresponding outer weight 121 (see FIG. 2). As can be seen in
FIG. 7, the tabs 126a of each inner weight 122 are angularly offset
from each other.
[0051] More specifically, when observed from the top, the tabs 126a
and 126b on the inner weights 122 in the inner stack 129 are
shifted 22.5 degrees from each other. If alignment of the tabs 126a
and 126b in the top weight is assigned a reference angle of 0
degrees, then the second inner weight from the top will have its
tabs 126a, 126b aligned at 22.5 degrees counterclockwise to the
reference angle. The third weight is aligned at 45 degrees, and so
on. Therefore, the seventh weight is aligned where the angle is 135
degrees.
[0052] Because two tabs 126a, 126b are used in each weight, and
these are 18 degrees apart, and if there is no eighth weight, the
radial space between the seventh tab and 180 degrees is unused by
any of the seven weights.
[0053] Each pair of lift pins 144a, 144b (hidden under the tabs in
the tab-ring 125) can engage one and only one of the tabs 126a,
126b as the selector rotates between 0 and 135 degrees. If the
selector is set at 157.5 degrees, none of the weight will be
engaged.
[0054] Bearing in mind that any weight selected carries with it all
the weights above it, it is clear that by rotating the selectors
141, 150 any one of the weights 121, 122 can be selected.
[0055] An advantageous arrangement for the weight stack 101 is
obtained if the outer weights 121 are 40 lbs. each, and if the
inner weights 122 are 5 lbs. each. This arrangement allows a user
to select any weight between 0 and 315 lbs., in 5 lbs. increments
(ignoring the weight of the plate 113 and associated hardware, such
as the selectors 141, 150).
[0056] FIG. 8 shows the stack 101 with the first or top outer
weight 121 selected, as well as the top two inner weights 122. FIG.
9 shows the stack 101 with the top 5 outer weights selected, as
well as the top 6 inner weights 122.
[0057] As shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, the selector 150 is
positioned on the guide rod 112 and is rotatable around bushing 116
(at the top) and bushing 162 (at the bottom). These bushings 116,
162 allow smooth vertical motion of the selector 150 on the
stationary guide rod 112, as well as low-friction rotation of the
selector 150 with reference to the guide rod 112.
[0058] The bottom bushing 162 is designed to fit into and engage a
dog clutch 152 . Thus when the selector 150 is at rest and is not
pulled up by the lift plate 113, it is locked rotationally by the
dog clutch 152. In this condition, the weights rest on stop pins
159 attached to the frame 158. To reduce friction, the bushing 162
is coupled to the frame 158 through a ball bearing 156, although
other arrangements may be used. For example, ball bearing 162 may
be replaced by a low friction bushing.
[0059] The dog clutch 152 is coupled to a sprocket 153 which in
turn is engaged to a worm gear 154. Worm gear 154 is mounted on a
drive shaft attached to an electric motor 155. Thus, the sprocket
153 is driven by the motor 155 through the worm gear 154 to rotate
in reference to the guide rod 112.
[0060] The electric motor 155 is adapted to turn the selector 150
freely through a full rotation, or more, without encountering any
resistance other than the friction of the sprocket 153, the bushing
116, dog clutch 152 and the ball bearing 156. Thus, while the
selection is being made, none of the weights in the weight stack
apply any force on the selector. Because the selection is
"weight-free," small stepper motors may be used. This not only
decreases overall size and weight of the machine as a whole, but
also decreases costs. Selector 141 for the outer weights is
supported in an identical manner and is rotatable by a separate
motor 160 (shown in FIG. 10).
[0061] It should be noted that the motor, worm gear and sprocket
are located in a position wherein these components are not moved,
i.e., they are not lifted, as the weights are raised or lowered.
Thus, there is no need for the motor to be mounted on the weights
which is often deleterious to motor operation over many repetitions
of the machine.
[0062] Thus by rotating the selectors 141 and 150 one pair of lift
pins 144 on each selector is placed under the lift tabs 126a and
126b of one of the weights 121, 122. The selected weight(s) and all
weight disposed upon the selected weight(s) from the weight stack
101 are coupled to the lift plate 113 through the respective
selector 141 or 150. When a user pulls on the cable 110, the lift
plate 113 and the selected weight(s) of the weight stack 101 are
raised and lowered through an exercise cycle.
[0063] The desired weight of the weight stacks 101 and 121 are
selected in each stack by placing the selector at the desired
rotational angle. This is achieved by energizing the electric
motors 155 and 160 that are associated with each stack 101 or 129
for the proper length of time, so that each motor moves from its
current position to the new position.
[0064] The motors 155 and 160 in one implementation are servo
motors that receive control signals indicating an amount of
rotation necessary to select the desired weight from the weight
stacks. The application and design of servomotors for such uses as
shown are well known in the art and not discussed further.
[0065] In a preferred implementation, the motors 155 and 160 are
stepper motors such as model Z26440-12 manufactured by Haydon
Switch and Instrument, Inc. This motor rotates 7.5 degrees for each
pulse it receives. With the worm gear reduction set at 1:40 gear
ratio, 120 pulses are required to rotate the sprocket 153 by 22.5
degrees. It is thus a simple matter to those schooled in the art of
electronic control circuits to provide an electronic controller
that will position each of the two selectors 141 and 150 at the
desired weight selection.
[0066] The selector 150 and the indexing sprocket 153 are locked
rotationally only when the selector 150 is resting against the
sprocket 153.
[0067] With reference to FIG. 5, sensor 161 is a proximity sensor
mounted through bracket 162 mounted on frame 158. The proximity
sensor 161 is positioned so that it is within 5 millimeters from
the bottom of the bushing 163. In particular, the proximity sensor
161, such as a proximity photo-microsensor EE-SB5 from Omron
Electronics LLC, provides an output when a reflecting surface is
within 5 millimeters from the face of the sensor. When the selector
150 is seated against the indexing sprocket 153, the lower bushing
163 is lined up with the position sensor 161. When the selector 150
is pulled up from its rest position, the bushing 163 is disposed
away from the sensor 161 and the output of the sensor 161 indicates
to the control circuitry (not shown) that the selector 150 is not
in place and that the motor 155 should not be activated.
[0068] By placing a notch in the lower bushing 153 at a height that
is aligned with the position sensor 161 when the selector 150 is at
its rest position against the indexing sprocket 153, the "home"
position of the sprocket 153 can be detected by the position sensor
161. When the stepper motor 155 rotates the sprocket 153, the
output of the position sensor 161 is monitored. As the notch passes
in front of the sensor 161, the reflection from the surface of the
bushing 163 is momentarily reduced due to the groove in its
surface. The controller detects this change in the output of the
position sensor 161, and the "home" position is confirmed. The
sensing of the "home" position is useful to prevent cumulative
errors between the controller and the actual position of the
sprocket 153.
[0069] A single-cable pull exercise system is inherently
imbalanced. Because the ratio of the weights selected in the two
stacks can be any combination of weights, it is not possible to
locate the hook 114 to precisely compensate for this imbalance. In
order to allow for a smooth operation of the weight stack, the
bushings 116, 163 act to prevent the plate 122 from tilting under
such imbalance conditions.
[0070] FIG. 10 shows diagrammatically the electronic control unit
102 of the exercise machine of this invention. The control unit 102
is connected to the exercise machine 100 to provide selection
signals to the motors 155 or 160 to select the desired weight from
the weight stacks as described above. The position sensors 161
associated with selectors 141 and 150 transmit the position signals
215, 220 to the control unit 102 indicating the "home" position and
"rest" position of each selectors 141 and 150.
[0071] The control unit 102 includes a microprocessor to receive
the position signals 215 and 220 and generates encoded signals
required to select the desired weights from the weight stacks. The
microprocessor 200 contains a memory or storage device to retain an
exercise regimen for one or more users. The microprocessor 200 is
connected to motor driver 205 which receives from the
microprocessor the encoded signals designating the weight to be
selected. The motor driver 205 processes the encoded signals and
generates the respective selection signals 225 or 230 that drive
the motors 155 and 160 to select the desired weights. The selection
signals 225, 230 cause the motors 155, 160 to rotate the selectors
141, 150 to place one pair of lifting pins 142 under the lifting
tabs of the desired weight. Once a weight is selected in this
manner, pulling on that weight automatically lifts all the other
weights disposed that particular weight in the respective stack. It
should be appreciated that the nesting of the two sets of weights
allows the device to select one set of weights from each stack
independently.
[0072] The physical interface to the user is the user control panel
103. The user control panel 103 as shown is exemplary. Generally,
the control panel 103 has a keypad 235 or keyboard to act as an
input device, such that the user can provide the desired weight
amounts or program an exercise regimen. The control panel 103 has a
display 240 (a three digit alphanumeric display in this example) to
indicate the weight amount or regimen step.
[0073] In operation, the user enters the desired weight on the
keypad 235. The display 240 shows the value of the weight just
entered, in a flashing mode, while the motors 155 and 160 move the
respective selectors to the desired positions. Once the selectors
have reached the desired positions, the display 240 stops
flashing.
[0074] The three LED's 242, 244, 246 in the user control panel 103
are used to provide feedback to the user as to the status of the
machine. The green LED 246 is lit when the machine is ready to be
used for exercise. The yellow LED 244 is lit while the motor 155
and/or 160 is stepping the selector to a new setting or whenever
one of the selectors is not in its rest position. The red LED 242
indicates an internal fault in the machine.
[0075] The control unit 102 optimally may have a network interface
210 to allow communication of the microprocessor 200 to a personal
computer 250 or with a communication network 255 such as the
Internet. The network interface 210 allows updating of the program
stored in the memory of the microprocessor. Alternately, the
personal computer 250 or communication network 255 gives the
necessary instructions to change the weights. This structure
further allows a physical trainer or an expert system to direct and
monitor multiple users through the network interface of multiple
exercise machines.
[0076] It will be appreciated that the weight lifting machine
provides numerous advantages over the prior art. For example, it
provides a weight stack that is compact, having a reduced
footprint, yet one which nonetheless provides a broad range of
weight selection. Selection of the weight is precise and errors in
selecting the weight are minimized. The construction also provides
smooth operation as the weights are raised and/or lowered.
[0077] While this invention has been particularly shown and
described with reference to the preferred embodiments thereof, it
will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes
in form and details may be made without departing from the spirit
and scope of the invention. For example, while the embodiment shown
describes an exercise machine in which weights are raised or
lowered, it will be appreciated that the principles of the
invention are applicable to other types of exercise machines in
which various weights are selected by the user.
[0078] One of the advantages of an electrically controlled weight
stack is that the user may change the weights from different
locations around the machine. In multi-function exercise machines,
for example, the user may use a "lat" pull down where he faces the
weight stack, and then switch to a leg extension where he faces
away from the stack. As the exercise sets proceed, weights need to
be changed (usually increased after each set), which would require
getting up from the seat and reaching for the weight-selecting pin
in a mechanical weight machine.
[0079] It will be appreciated that the electronically controlled
machine of the present invention advantageously may allow the use
of a portable display/keypad that may be moved with the user, thus
making the weight selection within reach at all times. Optionally,
an RF link may be used between the display and the controller of
the exercise machine. Such technology is readily available and can
be used to replace a wired network, although it is contemplated
that further advances in this technology will make such linkages
even smaller (and perhaps worn by a user as a watch-like display)
in the future.
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