U.S. patent application number 10/909826 was filed with the patent office on 2005-01-27 for weight training machine.
This patent application is currently assigned to Strive Enterprises, Inc.. Invention is credited to Leipheimer, Jerry Keith.
Application Number | 20050020416 10/909826 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32772226 |
Filed Date | 2005-01-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050020416 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Leipheimer, Jerry Keith |
January 27, 2005 |
Weight training machine
Abstract
A weight training machine includes a main frame, a lever
carriage mechanism, an adjustment linkage and a stop mechanism. A
lever carriage mechanism is pivotally connected to the main frame.
The lever carriage mechanism includes a weight carrying portion
adapted to carry at least one weight. An input mechanism is
connected to the lever carriage mechanism. The adjustment linkage
is connected between the lever carriage mechanism and the main
frame and is configured to selectively adjust an arc of rotation of
the weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism about
the main frame such that the weight carrying portion may
selectively traverse each of a plurality of predefined strength
curves in response to movement of the input mechanism by a
user.
Inventors: |
Leipheimer, Jerry Keith;
(Transfer, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WEBB ZIESENHEIM LOGSDON ORKIN & HANSON, P.C.
700 KOPPERS BUILDING
436 SEVENTH AVENUE
PITTSBURGH
PA
15219
US
|
Assignee: |
Strive Enterprises, Inc.
Canonsburg
PA
15317
|
Family ID: |
32772226 |
Appl. No.: |
10/909826 |
Filed: |
August 2, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10909826 |
Aug 2, 2004 |
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09532141 |
Mar 21, 2000 |
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6770017 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/97 ;
482/94 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/08 20130101;
A63B 2208/0233 20130101; A63B 21/0616 20151001; A63B 21/0615
20130101; A63B 21/4035 20151001; A63B 21/4047 20151001; A63B
23/03525 20130101; A63B 23/0405 20130101; A63B 2208/0247 20130101;
A63B 23/1281 20130101; A63B 21/159 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/097 ;
482/094 |
International
Class: |
A63B 021/06 |
Claims
1-18. (Cancelled)
19. An arm press machine, comprising: a main frame having a seat
portion and an upstanding frame portion connected to the seat
portion; two spaced apart lever carriage mechanisms positioned on
opposite sides of the arm press machine and each pivotally
connected to the upstanding frame portion of the main frame, with
the lever carriage mechanisms each having a weight carrying portion
adapted to carry at least one weight; an input mechanism connected
to each of the lever carriage mechanisms; an adjustment plate
attached to the upstanding frame portion for each of the lever
carriage mechanisms; and an adjustment linkage pivotally connected
to the lever carriage mechanisms and the respective adjustment
plates attached to the upstanding frame portion, with each of the
adjustment linkages configured to selectively adjust an arc of
rotation of the weight carrying portion of the respective lever
carriage mechanisms about the upstanding frame portion such that
the weight carrying portion of the respective lever carriage
mechanisms may each individually and selectively traverse a
plurality of predefined strength curves in response to movement of
the input mechanisms by a user.
20. An arm curl machine, comprising: a main frame having a seat
portion and an upstanding frame portion connected to the seat
portion; a lever carriage mechanism pivotally connected to the
upstanding frame portion, with the lever carriage mechanism having
a weight carrying portion adapted to carry at least one weight; a
conversion linkage having a first end and a second end, with the
first end pivotally connected to the lever carriage mechanism; a
handle grip lever pivotally connected to the upstanding frame
portion and the second end of the conversion linkage; and an
adjustment linkage pivotally connected to the lever carriage
mechanism and the upstanding frame portion and configured to
selectively adjust an arc of rotation of the weight carrying
portion of the lever carriage mechanism about the upstanding frame
portion such that the weight carrying portion may selectively
traverse each of a plurality of predefined strength curves in
response to movement of the handle grip lever by a user, wherein
the conversion linkage is configured to convert pivotal movement of
the handle grip lever into pivotal movement of the lever carriage
mechanism such that the lever carriage mechanism pivots at a slower
rate than the handle grip lever.
21-33. (Cancelled)
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a weight training machine
and, more particularly, to a weight training machine that enables a
user to selectively sequence a plurality of strength curves for
improved muscle training in the user's body.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] Prior art weight training devices typically offer the user
of the device a single range of motion, or strength curve.
Consequently, each time the user operates the weight training
device he or she repeats the same predefined strength curve. Using
the weight training devices known in the prior art on a repetitive
basis means that the user's workouts lack variety. The same muscle
fibers in the user's body, such as the muscles in the user's arms
or legs, are conditioned in the same manner during each workout.
The person's muscles become accustomed to the training regimen
which leads to training plateaus in which the person must work
harder and harder with diminishing returns. To achieve increasing
benefits over time, the user must either increase the number of
repetitions performed or the amount of weight used in the
device.
[0005] The single resistance pattern weight training devices known
in the prior art do not adequately train the user's muscles for
realistic physical situations. Whether in the work place, on the
athletic field, or in everyday situations people are forced to
respond to uncontrolled resistances that impact different ranges of
movement of the human body. It is apparent that a single resistance
pattern, or strength curve, does not "functionally" prepare the
human body for these dynamic and unpredictable stresses.
[0006] Therefore, it is an object of the present invention to
overcome these disadvantages in prior art weight training devices
which offer the user only a single resistance pattern or strength
curve. In addition, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a weight training machine that enables the user to
selectively sequence a number of strength curves for improved
training of the muscles in the user's body. It is a particular
object of the present invention to provide a leg press or arm press
machine that enables the user to selectively sequence a number of
strength curves for improved training of the user's leg or arm
muscles. Furthermore, it is another particular object of the
present invention to provide an arm curl machine that enables the
user to selectively sequence a number of strength curves for
improved training of the user's upper arms.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The above objects are accomplished with a weight training
machine made in accordance with the present invention. The weight
training machine generally includes a main frame, a lever carriage
mechanism, an input mechanism and an adjustment linkage pivotally
connected to the lever carriage mechanism and the main frame. The
main frame includes a seat portion. The lever carriage mechanism is
pivotally connected to the main frame. The lever carriage mechanism
also includes a weight carrying portion that is adapted to carry at
least one weight. The input mechanism is connected to the lever
carriage mechanism. The adjustment linkage is configured to
selectively adjust an arc of rotation of the weight carrying
portion of the lever carriage mechanism about the main frame such
that the weight carrying portion may selectively traverse each of a
plurality of predefined strength curves in response to movement of
the input mechanism by a user.
[0008] The weight training machine may further include a stop
mechanism connected to the main frame. The stop mechanism is
preferably configured to coact with the lever carriage mechanism
such that the stop mechanism limits rotation of the lever carriage
mechanism in a direction toward the seat portion of the main frame.
The stop mechanism may be pivotally connected to the main frame and
include an L-shaped engagement handle for manipulating the stop
mechanism.
[0009] The lever carriage mechanism may include a main linkage
pivotally supported on the main frame by bearings. The lever
carriage mechanism may further include a weight mount lever
pivotally connected to the main linkage. The weight mount lever
preferably includes a weight shaft for receiving one or more
removable weights onto the machine. The input mechanism may include
a push platform pivotally connected to the main linkage and
configured to transmit user input to the machine. The input
mechanism may include a handle grip fixedly attached to the main
linkage and configured to transmit user input to the machine.
Furthermore, the lever carriage mechanism may include a following
linkage pivotally connected to the push platform and the main
frame. The following linkage may be configured to control an angle
of the push platform relative to a horizontal plane as the lever
carriage mechanism rotates about the main frame when the machine is
operated by the user.
[0010] The weight training machine may further include a guide
linkage pivotally connected to the adjustment linkage and the
weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism. The guide
linkage may be configured to guide the weight carrying portion
along the preselected strength curve when the machine is operated
by a user. The weight carrying portion preferably includes a weight
mount lever with a weight shaft for receiving one or more removable
weights onto the machine. The guide linkage includes a first end
and a second end. The first end of the guide linkage may be
pivotally connected to the weight carrying portion of the weight
mount lever, and the second end of the guide linkage may be
pivotally connected to the adjustment linkage.
[0011] An adjustment plate may be fixed to the main frame. The
adjustment plate preferably defines a plurality of adjustment
holes. The adjustment linkage may define an aperture therethrough.
A removable pin may cooperate with the aperture and one of the
holes in the adjustment plate to set the arc of rotation of the
weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism and the
corresponding predefined strength curve. As stated, the adjustment
plate may define a plurality of adjustment holes. A first hole of
the plurality of adjustment holes preferably corresponds to an
overload beginning position of the adjustment linkage. A second
hole of the plurality of adjustment holes preferably corresponds to
an overload middle position of the adjustment linkage. A third hole
of the plurality of adjustment holes preferably corresponds to an
overload end position of the adjustment linkage.
[0012] The main frame may include a projecting piece. The
adjustment linkage may be pivotally connected to the projecting
piece. The main linkage may include a counterweight portion at one
end thereof. In addition, the main linkage may further include a
depending stop member at an end of the main linkage opposite from
the counterweight portion. The depending stop member is preferably
configured to coact with a stop mechanism connected to the main
frame, with the stop mechanism limiting rotation of the lever
carriage mechanism toward the seat portion.
[0013] Further details and advantages of the present invention will
become apparent in the following detailed description, in
conjunction with the drawings, wherein similar parts are designated
with primed reference characters.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a leg press
embodiment of the weight training machine according to the present
invention;
[0015] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 1 showing further details of a lever
carriage mechanism of the machine;
[0016] FIG. 3 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 1;
[0017] FIG. 4 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 1 with an adjustable linkage of the
machine set in an overload beginning position and showing a range
of motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0018] FIG. 5 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 1 with the adjustable linkage of the
machine set in an overload middle position and showing the range of
motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0019] FIG. 6 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 1 with the adjustable linkage of the
machine set in an overload end position and showing the range of
motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0020] FIG. 7 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 4 showing the lever carriage mechanism at
a beginning point and an ending point in its range of motion;
[0021] FIG. 8 is an exploded perspective view of an arm press
embodiment of the weight training machine according to the present
invention;
[0022] FIG. 9 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 8 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload beginning position and showing the
range of motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0023] FIG. 10 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 8 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload middle position and showing the range
of motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0024] FIG. 11 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 8 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload end position and showing the range of
motion of the lever carriage mechanism in phantom;
[0025] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an arm curl embodiment of
the weight training machine according to the present invention;
[0026] FIG. 13 is an exploded and perspective view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 12;
[0027] FIG. 14 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 12 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload beginning position and showing the
lever carriage mechanism at a first rotational position;
[0028] FIG. 15 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 14 showing the lever carriage mechanism at
a second rotational position;
[0029] FIG. 16 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 12 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload middle position and showing the lever
carriage mechanism at a first rotational position;
[0030] FIG. 17 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 16 showing the lever carriage mechanism at
a second rotational position;
[0031] FIG. 18 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 12 with the adjustment linkage of the
machine set in the overload end position and showing the lever
carriage mechanism at a first rotational position; and
[0032] FIG. 19 is a right side elevational view of the weight
training machine of FIG. 18 showing the lever carriage mechanism at
a second rotational position.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0033] Referring to FIG. 1, a weight training machine 10 made in
accordance with the present invention is shown. The weight training
machine 10 shown in FIGS. 1-7 is illustrated as a leg press
machine. However, the present invention may also be an arm press
machine in which the user's arm and chest muscles are conditioned
instead of the user's leg muscles, as discussed herein in
connection with FIGS. 8-11. In addition, the present invention is
an arm curl machine in-which the user's upper arms, in particular,
are conditioned, as discussed herein in connection with FIGS.
12-19.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 1, the weight training machine 10 generally
includes a main frame 12, a stop mechanism 14 connected to the main
frame 12, and a lever carriage mechanism 16 connected to the main
frame 12 and configured to coact with the stop mechanism 14.
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, the main frame 12 is substantially
rectangular in shape and includes a seat portion 18, a first frame
portion 20 adjacent the seat portion 18, and a second frame portion
22 upstanding from the first frame portion 20. The seat portion 18
is configured to receive the torso of a user (not shown) and
preferably includes two upholstered pads, a first upholstered pad
24 and a second upholstered pad 26. The user generally uses the
weight training machine 10 in the leg press machine embodiment
shown in FIGS. 1-7 by placing his or her back against the first
upholstered pad 24 and his or her buttocks against the second
upholstered pad 26. The first and second upholstered pads 24, 26
provide support to the user during operation of the weight training
machine 10.
[0036] The first frame portion 20 is formed adjacent and connected
to the seat portion 18 and defines an open space 28. The second
frame portion 22 is located at an opposite end of the main frame 12
from the seat portion 18 and is connected to the first frame
portion 20. The second frame portion 22 generally extends upward
from the first frame portion 20 and supports the lever carriage
mechanism 16. The main frame 12 generally serves the functions of
pivotally supporting the lever carriage mechanism 16 and
positioning and supporting the user in a correct exercise position
throughout the use of the weight training machine 10.
[0037] The stop mechanism 14 generally includes an elongated body
30 that is pivotally connected to the first frame portion 20 by a
shaft or a mechanical tube 32. A U-shaped flat bar 34 is provided
at one end of the elongated body 30 and is configured to engage the
lever carriage mechanism 16 to limit rotation of the lever carriage
mechanism 16 in a direction toward the first frame portion 20 and,
in particular, toward the seat portion 18 of the main frame 12 for
the safety of the user. The stop mechanism 14 further includes a
user engagement handle 36 that is connected fixedly to the
elongated body 30. The user engagement handle 36 is preferably
formed with a 90.degree. angle so that it is easily grasped by the
user when positioned in the weight training machine 10. The stop
mechanism 14 is generally positioned in the open space 28 defined
by the first frame portion 20. The stop mechanism 14 is omitted in
FIGS. 3-7 for clarity.
[0038] The lever carriage mechanism 16 generally includes a main
linkage 40 pivotally connected to the main frame 12, a following
linkage 42 pivotally connected to the second frame portion 22, a
weight mount lever 44 pivotally connected to the main linkage 40,
and a guide linkage 46, also pivotally connected to the main
linkage 40. The lever carriage mechanism 16 preferably further
includes a push platform 50 pivotally connected to the main linkage
40 and the following linkage 42. The push platform 50 is the main
input mechanism in the leg press embodiment of the weight training
machine 10, whereby the user exerts his or her leg muscles in a
reciprocating manner to pivot the lever carriage mechanism 16 and
thus raise and lower the weight mount lever 44.
[0039] The main linkage 40 is supported on the main frame 12 by
bearings 52, 54. In particular, the main linkage 40 is pivotally
connected to the second frame portion 22 of the main frame 12 by
bearings 52, 54. Bearings 52, 54 have flanges (not shown) to
receive bolts (not shown) for securing the bearings 52, 54 to the
second frame portion 22. The main linkage 40 further includes a
counterweight portion 56 and a depending stop member 58 that is
configured to cooperate with the U-shaped flat bar 34 of the stop
mechanism 14. As stated previously, the stop mechanism 14 limits
the rotation of the lever carriage mechanism 16 in the direction
toward the first frame portion 20. The push platform 50 is
pivotally connected to the main linkage 40 by shaft 60. The push
platform 50 preferably includes a plate 62 against which the user
places his or her feet to provide the input to the weight training
machine 10 in the leg press machine embodiment shown. The push
platform 50 preferably further includes a handle grip 64 attached
to the plate 62 which is used to assist in entry and exit to and
from the machine 10. The counterweight portion 56 offsets the
weight of the lever carriage mechanism 16 so that the user only
"feels" the force generated by the target loading portion of the
lever carriage mechanism 16, which generally includes the main
linkage 40, the weight mount lever 44 and the guide linkage 46.
[0040] Referring now to FIGS. 1-7, the following linkage 42 is
pivotally connected to the push platform 50 by shaft 66 and
pivotally connected to the second frame portion 22 of the main
frame 12 by shaft 68. The following linkage 42 controls an angle
.varies. of the plate 62 of the push platform 50 as the main
linkage 40 pivots about the second frame portion 22. The angle
.varies. is defined with respect to a horizontal plane, as shown in
FIGS. 4-6. The following linkage 42 is configured to maintain the
plate 62 oriented at the angle .varies. as the user pushes against
the push platform 50 and the plate 62, and the lever carriage
mechanism 16 rotates upward through its range of motion. As shown
in FIGS. 4-7, the lever carriage mechanism 16 pivots through about
40.degree. of pivotal or rotational motion (i.e., has about a
40.degree. range of motion).
[0041] The weight mount lever 44 is pivotally connected to the main
linkage 40 by shaft 70. The weight mount lever 44 preferably
includes two transversely extending weight mount shafts 72 that are
configured to receive removable weights usually in the form of
plates with central apertures, (not shown) used in connection with
the weight training machine 10. Thus, in the preferred embodiment,
the weight mount shafts 72 and the weight mount lever 44 are the
weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism 16.
[0042] The guide linkage 46 is formed as an L-shaped member and
includes two ends, a first end 74 and a second end 75. The first
end 74 of the guide linkage 46 is pivotally connected by shaft 76
to the weight mount lever 44. The second end 75 of the guide
linkage 46 is pivotally connected by shaft 78 to an adjustment
linkage 80. The first end 74 of the guide linkage 46 is connected
by shaft 76 at a point on the weight mount lever 44 located between
shaft 70 and weight mount shaft 72. The connection point of the
guide linkage 46 to the weight mount lever 44 is about four inches
away from shaft 70.
[0043] The adjustment linkage 80 includes two ends, a first end 82
and a second end 84. An adjustment handle lever 86 is preferably
connected to the first end 82 of the adjustment linkage 80 and may
be formed integrally therewith. The second end 84 of the adjustment
linkage 80 is pivotally connected by shaft 88 to the second frame
portion 22 of the main frame 12. In particular, the second end 84
of the adjustment linkage 80 is pivotally connected by shaft 88 to
a projecting piece 90 connected to the second frame portion 22. The
projecting piece 90 includes a mechanical tube 91 with which shaft
88 cooperates to connect the adjustment linkage 80 to the
projecting piece 90.
[0044] The guide linkage 46 is rotatable relative to the adjustment
linkage 80 via shaft 78, as discussed previously. In particular,
the guide linkage 46 is connected at its second end 75 via shaft 78
to the adjustment linkage 80 at a point on the adjustment linkage
80 located between the first end 82 and the second end 84 of the
adjustment linkage 80. Preferably, the guide linkage 46 is
connected by shaft 78 at a point closer to the second end 84 of the
adjustment linkage 80. The connection point of the guide linkage 46
via shaft 78 to the adjustment linkage 80 is about 51/4 inches from
the second end 84 of the adjustment linkage 80. However, this
relative distance for the connection point is merely an example and
may be changed to place the weight mount lever 44 in different
locations allowing it to rotate in a proper relation throughout the
range of motion of the lever carriage mechanism 16.
[0045] The adjustment linkage 80 defines at least one aperture 92
at a point located between the adjustment handle lever 86 and shaft
78 which connects the guide linkage 46 to the adjustment linkage
80. The adjustment linkage 80 is configured to coact with an
adjustment plate 100 attached to the second frame portion 22 of the
main frame 12 as hereinafter discussed. As shown in FIG. 3, the
adjustment plate 100 defines a plurality of holes 102. The
adjustment linkage 80 preferably cooperates with the adjustment
plate 100 through the use of a removable pin 104, such as a "popper
pin", that extends through the aperture 92 in the adjustment
linkage 80 and through one of the holes 102 in the adjustment plate
100. The pin 104 is removable so that after removal the adjustment
linkage 80 may be moved to other locations along the adjustment
plate 100 by manipulating the adjustment handle lever 86. Once the
adjustment linkage 80 is moved to a new position in which the
aperture 92 lies coextensive with one of the other holes 102 in the
adjustment plate 100, the pin 104 is reinserted through the
aperture 92 in the adjustment linkage 92 and the "new" hole
102.
[0046] As shown in FIGS. 4-6, in the weight training machine 10,
the adjustment linkage 80 may be placed in at least three different
positions. The three positions of the adjustment linkage 80 in
FIGS. 4-6 are merely illustrative and fewer or greater numbers of
positions are within the scope of the present invention. Each of
the three positions corresponds to one of the holes 102 in the
adjustment plate 100. FIG. 4 shows the adjustment linkage 80 set in
an overload beginning position corresponding to hole 102a in the
adjustment plate 100. FIG. 5 shows the adjustment linkage 80 set in
an overload middle position corresponding to hole 102b in the
adjustment plate 100. Finally, FIG. 6 shows the adjustment linkage
80 in an overload end position corresponding to hole 102c in the
adjustment plate 100. As discussed hereinabove, the pin 104 may be
inserted through the aperture 92 in the adjustment linkage 80 and
any one of the holes 102a , 102b and 102c. Locating the pin 104 in
the respective holes 102a, 102b and 102c in the adjustment plate
100 enables the user to operate the weight training machine 10 in
the different overload positions shown in FIGS. 4-6. The overload
positions of the adjustment linkage 80 as set by holes 102a, 102b
and 102c and popper pin 104 shown in FIGS. 4-6 cause the weight
mount shaft 72 of the weight mount lever 44 to traverse different
arcs as the user makes inputs to the weight training machine 10, as
discussed hereinafter in connection with FIGS. 5 and 7. FIG. 4
shows the weight mount shaft 72 traversing a first arc 106 when the
adjustment linkage 80 is set in the overload beginning position
corresponding to hole 102a in the adjustment plate 100. FIG. 5
shows the weight mount shaft 72 traversing a second arc 108 when
the adjustment linkage 80 is set in the overload middle position
corresponding to hole 102b in the adjustment plate 100. Finally,
FIG. 6 shows the weight mount shaft 72 traversing a third arc 110
when the adjustment linkage 80 is set in the overload end position
corresponding to hole 102c in the adjustment plate 100. The first
arc 106, the second arc 108 and the third arc 110 each correspond
to a different resistance pattern or strength curve for the weight
training machine 10, which enables the user to selectively stress
different muscles in the user's body, and in the leg press machine
embodiment of the weight training machine 10 to selectively stress
different muscles in the user's legs.
[0047] The relative movement of the linkages of the lever carriage
mechanism 16 will now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 5 and 7,
in which the adjustment linkage 80 is set in the overload middle
position corresponding to hole 102b in the adjustment plate 100.
The user mounts the leg press machine embodiment of the weight
training machine 10 by placing his or her back against the first
upholstered pad 24 and his or her buttocks against the second
upholstered pad 26. The user then places his feet against the plate
62 of the push platform 50 and pushes against the push platform 50
using the hamstrings, gluteus maximus and the quadricep muscles to
slowly raise the push platform 50. The user will feel close to
about 100% of the maximum resistance load of the weights received
on the weight mount shafts 72 throughout the range of motion of the
lever carriage mechanism 16. The resistance load may vary by about
10% through the range of motion. The input to the push platform 50
causes the main linkage 40 to rotate about bearings 52, 54 and, in
particular, to rotate upward about the second frame portion 22 of
the main frame 12. The following linkage 42, which is pivotally
connected to the push platform 50, controls the angle .varies. of
the plate 62 of the push platform 50 relative to a horizontal plane
as the main linkage 40 rotates about the bearings 52, 54. The plate
62 of the push platform 50 rotates upward at the angle .varies.
which remains unchanged throughout the exercise movement. The angle
.varies. is preferably about 30.degree.. Thus, as shown in phantom
in FIGS. 4-6, the plate 62 of the push platform 50 remains at a
constant angle .varies. to horizontal throughout the exercise
movement.
[0048] With continued reference to FIGS. 5 and 7, as the main
linkage 40 rotates about bearings 52, 54, the weight mount lever 44
rotates upward with the main linkage 40. The weight mount shaft 72
(which bears weight plates, not shown) of the weight mount lever 44
traverses the second arc 108. The first end 74 of the guide linkage
46, which is pivotally connected to the weight mount lever 44 by
shaft 76, pivots upward with the weight mount lever 44. The second
end 75 of the guide linkage 46 is pivotally connected to the
adjustment linkage 80 via shaft 78 and pivots downward as the first
end 74 pivots upward with the weight mount lever 44. The adjustment
linkage 80 controls the arc traversed by the weight mount shaft 72
via the guide linkage 46. The angle and location of the adjustment
linkage 80 are changed by selectively positioning the pin 104 in
the aperture 92 in the adjustment linkage 80 and the respective
holes 102 in the adjustment plate 100. The changes in angle and
location of the adjustment linkage 80 are selectively variable
inputs to the machine 10. The changes in angle and location of the
adjustment linkage 80 are transmitted through the guide linkage 46
to the rest of the lever carriage mechanism 16. The changes in
angle and location of the adjustment linkage 80, as inputted
through the guide linkage 46, alter the arc traversed by the weight
mount shaft 72. As stated previously, the overload middle position
shown in FIGS. 5 and 7 corresponds to hole 102b in the adjustment
plate 100, with the pin 104 positioned in the aperture 92 in the
adjustment linkage 80 and hole 102b. The weight mount shaft 72
traverses the second arc 108, with the adjustment linkage 80 in
this configuration.
[0049] Referring briefly to FIG. 4, when the adjustment linkage 80
is set in the overload beginning position with the pin 104 inserted
in aperture 92 and hole 102a, the weight mount shaft 72 of the
weight mount lever 44 traverses the first arc 106 and, hence, a
different strength curve. The user will feel approximately 100% of
the resistance load of the weights received on the weight mount
shafts 72 at the beginning of the range of motion of the lever
carriage mechanism 16 and the resistance will decrease through the
range of motion to about 34% of the maximum resistance at the end
(top) of the range of motion of the lever carriage mechanism 16.
The resistance load may vary by about 10% through the range of
motion. Similarly, as shown in FIG. 6, when the adjustment linkage
80 is set in the overload end position with the pin 104 inserted in
aperture 92 and hole 102c, the weight mount shaft 72 of the weight
mount lever 44 traverses the third arc 110 corresponding to another
strength curve. The user will feel about 34% of the maximum
resistance load of the weights received on the weight mount shafts
72 at the beginning of the range of motion of the lever carriage
mechanism 16, and the resistance will increase through the range of
motion to about 100% of the maximum resistance at the end (top) of
the range of motion of the lever carriage mechanism 16. The
resistance load may vary by about 10% through the range of motion.
The adjustment linkage 80 with the pin 104 coacting with the
respective holes 102a, 102b and 102c in the adjustment plate 100
controls the respective strength curve or arc traversed by the
weight mount shaft 72 of the weight mount lever 44 and, more
generally, the range of motion of the lever carriage mechanism
16.
[0050] As shown in FIGS. 4-6, the weight mount shaft 72 of the
weight mount lever 44 rotates upward to define the respective first
arc 106, the second arc 108 and the third arc 110. As stated
previously, the first arc 106, the second arc 108 and the third arc
110 each correspond to a predefined strength curve of the weight
training machine 10, which are each intended to stress certain
muscles (and different parts of the same muscle) in the user's legs
more heavily than others. In this manner, the user may vary his or
her workout regimen when using the leg press embodiment of the
present invention. For example, the first arc 106 corresponds to a
strength curve in which the majority of the work done by the user
is done at the beginning of the movement of the lever carriage
mechanism 16. Consequently, with the adjustment linkage 80 set in
the overload beginning position, the user will work, for example,
hamstrings and quadricep muscles more so than the gluteus maximus
muscles. Similarly, with the adjustment linkage 80 set in the
overload middle position and the weight mount shaft 72 traversing
the second arc 108 shown in FIG. 5, the user's work input is
approximately constant throughout the upward movement of the lever
carriage mechanism 16. Consequently, with the adjustment linkage 80
set in the overload middle position, the user will work his or her
lower torso muscles evenly throughout the exercise movement.
Finally, with the adjustment linkage 80 set in the overload end
position and the weight mount shaft 72 traversing the third arc 110
shown in FIG. 6, the user's work input is greater at the end of the
upward movement of the lever carriage mechanism 16. Consequently,
with the adjustment linkage 80 set in the overload end position,
the user will work the gluteus maximus muscles more so than the
hamstring and quadricep muscles, for example. By selectively
positioning the adjustment linkage 80, the user of a leg press
machine may selectively target different muscles and muscle parts
in the user's legs.
[0051] The exercise movement is completed by lowering the push
platform 50 while at the same time rotating the stop mechanism 14
so that the stop member 58 connected to the main linkage 40 is
placed in engagement with the U-shaped flat bar 34 of the stop
mechanism 14. The stop mechanism 14 limits the downward rotation of
the lever carriage mechanism 16 for ease and safety of user entry
and exit from the weight training machine 10.
[0052] The above-discussed principle of operation for the leg press
embodiment of the weight training machine 10 may also be applied to
an arm press embodiment, such as a chest press machine, as shown in
FIGS. 8-11. In FIGS. 8-11 the arm press embodiment of the weight
training machine is designated with reference character 10'.
Referring to FIG. 8, the machine 10' includes a main frame 12' and
two laterally spaced lever carriage mechanisms 16'. The main frame
12' includes a seat portion 18' and an upstanding frame portion
22', which is similar in construction to the second frame portion
22 of the machine 10 discussed previously. The seat portion 18'
preferably includes a single upholstered pad 24' to support the
user's back and hips during use of the machine 10'. The stop
mechanism 14' is preferably provided in the form of two oppositely
facing stops 110, 112 positioned on the upstanding frame portion
22', which limit the downward movement of the lever carriage
mechanisms 16', respectively, toward the seat portion 18'.
[0053] The left and right lever carriage mechanisms 16' each
include a main linkage 40' pivotally connected to the frame portion
22', a weight mount lever 44' pivotally connected to the main
linkage 40', and a guide linkage 46' also pivotally connected to
the main linkage 40'. The right side main linkage 40' is supported
and pivotally connected to the frame portion 22' by bearings 52',
54', and the left side main linkage 40' is supported and pivotally
connected to the frame portion 22' by a second set of bearings 52',
54'. Right and left sides for the machine 10 are defined from the
point of view of the user who will operate the machine 10' in FIG.
8. The user will generally use the machine 10' with his or her back
and hips positioned against upholstered pad 24' and head facing the
frame portion 22'. Hence, FIGS. 9-11 are right side elevational
views of the machine 10.
[0054] The main linkage 40' further includes a counterweight
portion 56' for each of the respective lever carriage mechanisms
16' which offsets the weight of the respective lever carriage
mechanisms 16'. The right and left side main linkages 40' each have
a handle grip 64' which the user grasps to provide the input to the
machine 10' and, hence, the handle grips 64' are the input
mechanisms to the machine 10'. In operation, the user grasps the
respective handle grips 64' and pushes upward in a reciprocating
manner to pivot the right and left side lever carriage mechanisms
16' and thus raise and lower the weight mount levers 44' attached
thereto. As shown in FIG. 8, the right side main linkage 40' coacts
with stop 110 to limit the downward motion of the right side lever
carriage mechanism 16', and the left side main linkage 40' coacts
with stop 112 to limit the downward motion of the left side lever
carriage mechanism 16'.
[0055] The respective weight mount levers 44' are pivotally
connected to the right and left side main linkages 40' and each
include a weight mount shaft 72' adapted to receive removable
weights onto the machine 10'. The weight mount shafts 72 and the
weight mount levers 44' are the weight carrying portions of the
right and left side lever carriage mechanisms 16'. The weight mount
levers 44' are each pivotally connected by shaft 70' to the
respective main linkages 40'.
[0056] In the machine 10', the guide linkages 46' for the right and
left side lever carriage mechanisms 16' are preferably provided as
bars each having a first end 74' and a second end 75'. The first
end 74' of the respective guide linkages 46' is pivotally connected
to the respective weight mount levers 44'. The second end 75' of
the respective guide linkages 46' is pivotally connected to
respective right and left side adjustment linkages 80'. The
connection point of the guide linkages 46' to weight mount levers
44' may be about 41/2 inches away from shafts 76' which connect the
weight mount levers 44' to the respective right and left side main
linkages 40'.
[0057] The adjustment linkages 80' each have a first end 82' and a
second end 84'. An adjustment handle lever 86' is preferably
connected to the first end 82' of each of the adjustment linkages
80'. The second end 84' of each of the adjustment linkages 80' is
pivotally connected by respective shafts 88' to the upstanding
frame portion 22' of the main frame 12'. In particular, the
adjustment linkages 80' are pivotally connected to respective
adjustment plates 100' fixedly secured to the right and left sides
of the machine 10'. The guide linkages 46' are pivotal relative to
the adjustment linkages 80' via shafts 78' extending from the
respective adjustment linkages 80'. The connection point at shaft
78' is about 51/2 inches from the first end 82' of the respective
adjustment linkages 80'.
[0058] The adjustment linkages 80' each define an aperture 92'. The
adjustment plates 100' each define a plurality of holes 102'. The
arm press embodiment of the machine 10' shown in FIG. 8 includes
three holes 102a', 102b' and 102c'. However, as with the machine 10
discussed previously, additional or fewer holes 102' could be
provided in adjustment plates 100'. As was the case with machine
10, the adjustment linkage 80' may be set in different overload
positions which correspond with adjustment holes 102a', 102b' and
102c' in the adjustment plates 100', as shown in FIGS. 9-11. In
addition, as shown in FIGS. 9-11, the lever carriage mechanism 16'
has about a 40.degree. range of motion.
[0059] FIG. 9 shows the right side adjustment linkage 80' set in
the overload beginning position corresponding to hole 102a' in the
right side adjustment plate 100' by popper pin 104'. FIG. 10 shows
the adjustment linkage 80' set in the overload middle position
corresponding to hole 102b' in the adjustment plate 100'. Finally,
FIG. 11 shows the adjustment linkage 80' in the overload end
position corresponding to hole 102c' in the adjustment plate 100'.
The overload positions of the adjustment linkage 80' as set by
holes 102a', 102b' and 102c' and popper pin 104' cause the weight
mount shaft 72' of the respective weight mount levers 44' to
traverse different arcs as the user makes inputs to the machine
10'. FIG. 9 shows the weight mount shaft 72' traversing a first arc
106' with the adjustment linkage 80' set in the overload beginning
position corresponding to hole 102a' in the adjustment plate 100'.
In the overload beginning position, the user will target the
pectoral muscles more so than the tricep muscles. FIG. 10 shows the
weight mount shaft 72' traversing a second arc 108' with the
adjustment linkage 80' set in the overload middle position
corresponding to hole 102b' in the adjustment plate 100'. In the
overload middle position, the user will target pectoral and tricep
muscles approximately evenly throughout the range of motion of the
lever carriage mechanisms 16'. Finally, FIG. 11 shows the weight
mount shaft 72' traversing a third arc 110' with the adjustment
linkage 80' set in the overload end position corresponding to hole
102c' in the adjustment plate 100'. In the overload end position,
the user will target the tricep muscles more so than the pectoral
muscles.
[0060] The arm press embodiment of the machine 10' operates in a
substantially similar manner to the leg press embodiment of the
machine 10 discussed previously, and the user will experience
similar load resistance percentages in the various overload
positions of the machine 10' as found in the leg press machine
embodiment. The user operates the machine 10' by pushing upward
against the handle grips 64' which causes the respective right and
left side lever carriage mechanisms 16' to pivot upward. The main
linkages 40' pivot about respective bearings 52', 54', and the
weight mount levers 44' rotate upward with the main linkages 40'.
The weight mount shafts 72' traverse the respective first arc 106',
second arc 108' and third arc 110' shown in FIGS. 4-11, depending
on the angle and positioning of the right and left side adjustment
linkages 80'. The first end 74' of each of the guide linkages 46'
pivot upward with the weight mount levers 44'. The second end 75'
of each of the guide linkages 46' simultaneously pivots downward
with the second end 84' of the adjustment linkages 80'. The angle
and location of the adjustment linkages 80' are selectively
variable as discussed previously. The guide linkages 46' transmit
the changes in the angle and location of the adjustment linkages
80' to the respective right and left side lever carriage mechanisms
16', which thereby alters the arc traversed by the weight mount
levers 72'. In this manner, the user of the machine 10' may
selectively vary his or her workout regimen.
[0061] Referring now to FIGS. 12-19, the weight training machine is
also an arm curl machine, which is designated with reference
character 10" in the figures. Referring, in particular, to FIGS. 12
and 13, the machine includes a main frame 12" and a lever carriage
mechanism 16". The main frame 12" includes a seat portion 18" and
an upstanding frame portion 22", which is similar in construction
to the upstanding frame portion 22' of the arm press machine 10'
discussed previously. The seat portion 18" preferably includes a
first upholstered pad 24" for the user to sit on while using the
machine. The upstanding frame portion 22" further includes a second
upholstered pad 26" located to support the user's elbows while
using the machine 10". The seat portion 18" is located on a left
side of the machine and the lever carriage mechanism 16" is located
on the right side of the machine 10". Right and left sides for the
machine 10" are defined from the point of view of the user who will
operate the machine 10". The user will operate the machine 10" by
sitting on the first upholstered pad 24" facing the second
upholstered pad 26", and rest his or her elbows on the second
upholstered pad 26". Hence, FIGS. 14-19 discussed herein are right
side elevational views of the machine 10".
[0062] The lever carriage mechanism 16" includes a main linkage 40"
pivotally connected to the upstanding frame portion 22", a weight
mount lever 44" pivotally connected to the main linkage 40", and a
guide linkage 46" also pivotally connected to the main linkage 40".
The main linkage 40" is support and pivotally connected to the
upstanding frame portion by bearing 52". A stop member 114" is
preferably located at one end of the main linkage 40" and is
adapted to coact with the upstanding frame portion 22" to limit the
downward movement of the lever carriage mechanism 16" toward the
seat portion 18".
[0063] The weight mount lever 44" is pivotally connected to the
main linkage 40" by shaft 70" and includes a weight mount shaft 72"
adapted to receive removable weights onto the machine 10". The
weight mount shaft 72" and the weight mount lever 44" are the
weight carrying portion of the lever carriage mechanism 16".
[0064] The guide linkage 46" is formed as a bar having a first end
74" and a second end 75". The first end 74" of the guide linkage
46" is pivotally connected to the weight mount lever 44" via shaft
76". The second end 75" of the guide linkage 46" is pivotally
connected to an adjustment linkage 80". The adjustment linkage 80"
in the machine 10" is preferably provided in two parts, a first
portion 80a" and a second portion 80b". The first and second
portions 80a", 80b" are connected by shaft 88", which is rotatably
received through mechanical tube 116 located on the upstanding
frame portion 22". The guide linkage 46" is pivotally connected to
the first portion 80a" of the adjustment linkage 80" via shaft 78",
which extends from the first portion 80a". The second portion 80b"
of the adjustment linkage 80" includes a first end 82" and a second
end 84". An adjustment handle lever 86" is located at the first end
82" of the second portion 80b". Shaft 88" is located at the second
end 84" of the second portion 80b". The second portion 80b" of the
adjustment linkage 80" defines an aperture 92". An adjustment plate
100" is attached to the upstanding frame portion 22" and defines a
plurality of adjustment holes 102". The adjustment plate 100" in
FIG. 13 includes three adjustment holes 102a", 102b" and 102c".
However, additional or fewer holes 102" may be provided in the
adjustment plate 100" in accordance with the present invention. The
adjustment linkage 80" may be set in different overload positions
which correspond with the adjustment holes 102a", 102b" and 102c"
in the adjustment plate 100" by use of a pin 104" as was the case
with the arm press machine 10' discussed previously.
[0065] The main differences between the arm press machine 10' and
the present arm curl machine 10" are that the arm curl machine 10"
includes a handle grip lever 118 that is pivotally connected to the
upstanding frame portion 22" and pivotally connected to a
conversion linkage 120. The conversion linkage 120, in turn, is
pivotally connected to the lever carriage mechanism 16", and the
main linkage 40" in particular. The handle grip lever 118 includes
handle grips 64" located at a first end 122 thereof for
manipulating the handle grip lever 120. A second end 124 of the
handle grip lever 118 includes two shafts, a first shaft 126 which
is pivotally supported on the upstanding frame portion 22" by
bearing 54", and a second shaft 128 pivotally connected to a first
end 130 of the conversion linkage 120. A second end 132 of the
conversion linkage 120 is pivotally connected by shaft 134 to the
main linkage 40" and, hence, the lever carriage mechanism 16". The
conversion linkage 120 pivotally connects the handle grip lever 118
to the lever carriage mechanism 16". The conversion linkage 120 is
adapted to convert the pivotal input movement of the handle grip
lever 118 by the user to pivotal output movement of the lever
carriage mechanism 16". The conversion linkage 118 is adapted to
pivot, or rotate, at a slower rate than the handle grip lever 118
which causes the lever carriage mechanism 16" to pivot or rotate at
a slower rate than the handle grip lever 118. Thus, the rotational
movement, or range of movement of the lever carriage mechanism 16"
is approximately half the rotational movement, or range of motion
of the handle grip lever 118, (i.e., when the handle grip lever is
rotated 140.degree. the lever carriage mechanism is rotated about
70.degree., for example).
[0066] In operation, the user sits on the first upholstered pad
24", grasps the handle grips 64" and pulls upward in a
reciprocating manner to pivot the lever carriage mechanism 16" and
thus raise and lower the weight mount lever 44" and weight shaft
72". The user will typically rest his or her elbows on the second
upholstered pad 26". The stop member 114 attached to the main
linkage 40" limits the downward motion of the lever carriage
mechanism 16" at the conclusion of the user's movements. FIGS. 14
and 15 show the adjustment linkage 80" set in the overload
beginning position corresponding to hole 102a" (shown in FIG. 13)
in the adjustment plate 100". FIGS. 16 and 17 show the adjustment
linkage 80" set in the overload middle position corresponding to
hole 102b" in the adjustment plate 100". Finally, FIGS. 18 and 19
show the adjustment linkage 80" in the overload end position
corresponding to hole 102c" in the adjustment plate 100". The
overload positions of the adjustment linkage 80" as set by holes
102a", 102b" and 102c" and pin 104" (shown in FIG. 13) cause the
weight mount shaft 72" of the weight mount lever 44" to traverse
arcs as the user makes inputs with the handle grip lever 118.
[0067] As stated, the conversion linkage 120 is configured to
reduce the rotational movement of the lever carriage mechanism 16"
to approximately half that of the rotational movement of the handle
grip lever 118. FIG. 14 shows the orientation of the lever carriage
mechanism 16" with the handle grip lever 118 pivoted to about
70.degree. of rotation. In FIG. 14, with handle grip lever 118
rotated to about 70.degree. the lever carriage mechanism 16"
rotates or pivots to approximately 35.degree., with respect to a
horizontal plane (i.e., the ground). FIG. 15 shows the position of
the lever carriage mechanism 16" with the handle grip lever 118 at
approximately 140.degree. of rotation. The lever carriage mechanism
16" in FIG. 15 rotates to approximately 70.degree. of rotation.
Hence, it will be apparent from FIGS. 14 and 15 that the weight
mount shaft 72" moves in an arcuate manner from the first
rotational position shown in FIG. 14, which corresponds to
approximately a midpoint through the range of motion of the lever
carriage mechanism 16", to the second rotational position shown in
FIG. 15 of the lever carriage mechanism 16", which corresponds to
approximately an end point of the range of motion of the lever
carriage mechanism 16".
[0068] FIGS. 16 and 17 show a similar pivotal movement of the lever
carriage mechanism 16" to that shown in FIGS. 14 and 15, but now
the adjustment linkage 80" is set in the overload middle position
corresponding to adjustment hole 102b" (shown in FIG. 13). FIG. 16
shows the lever carriage mechanism 16" with the handle grip lever
118 rotated to approximately 70.degree. of rotation. The lever
carriage mechanism 16" in FIG. 16 has rotated, correspondingly, to
approximately 35.degree. of rotation. FIG. 17 shows the position of
the lever carriage mechanism 16" when the handle grip lever 118 is
rotated approximately 140.degree.. It will be apparent that the
weight mount shaft 72" exhibits a different arcuate movement from
FIG. 16 to FIG. 17 than was the case with FIGS. 14 and 15 discussed
previously.
[0069] FIGS. 18 and 19 show the position of the lever carriage
mechanism 16" with the adjustment linkage set in the overload end
position corresponding to hole 102c" (shown in FIG. 13) and the
handle grip lever 118 rotated to about 70.degree. and 140.degree.
respectively. The weight mount shaft 72" exhibits a different
arcuate motion from FIG. 18 to FIG. 19 than that shown in FIGS.
14-17 discussed previously.
[0070] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the
present invention provides a weight training machine that enables
the user to selectively target muscle groups in the user's body and
vary his or her workout regimen. It is also envisioned that the
invention is applicable to machines for physical therapy, in
addition to "weight training" per se.
[0071] The present invention was described with reference to
preferred embodiments, which are merely illustrative of the present
invention and not restrictive thereof. Obvious modifications and
alterations of the present invention may be made without departing
from the spirit and scope of the present invention. The scope of
the present invention is defined by the appended claims and
equivalents thereto.
* * * * *