U.S. patent application number 10/933592 was filed with the patent office on 2005-03-10 for stretching machine.
Invention is credited to Davies, David R. III.
Application Number | 20050054499 10/933592 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34228679 |
Filed Date | 2005-03-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050054499 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Davies, David R. III |
March 10, 2005 |
Stretching machine
Abstract
A stretching machine that can be used for rehabilitation,
medical treatment and fitness for paraplegics and athletes. The
stretching machine is comprised of a stretching bar and a base. The
stretching machine allows the user to stretch while in a seated or
standing position. The telescoping stretching bar includes a
mechanism for allowing the user to sit and fully extend his arms
either directly in front of his torso, directly above his head, or
any angle in between. Positioning the telescoping stretching bar to
either side of the user allows for arm and shoulder stretching. In
addition, the telescoping stretching bar can pivot to an angular
orientation with respect to the user's waist. By changing the angle
of the telescoping stretching bar and the position of the bar, with
respect to the seated user, the target muscle groups change.
Because of its open design the stretching machine can be easily
operated by the user or easily assisted by a therapist or trainer.
The telescoping stretching bar of the stretching machine uses a
series of telescoping tubes to achieve a greater length when being
used and extended, than when collapsed and not in use.
Inventors: |
Davies, David R. III;
(Richmond, VA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
WILLIAMS MULLEN
FOUNTAIN PLAZA THREE, SUITE 200
721 LAKEFRONT COMMONS
NEWPORT NEWS
VA
23606
US
|
Family ID: |
34228679 |
Appl. No.: |
10/933592 |
Filed: |
September 3, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60500293 |
Sep 4, 2003 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
482/131 ;
482/907 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61H 1/0229
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/131 ;
482/907 |
International
Class: |
A63B 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A stretching apparatus, comprising: a base; an extendable column
connected to the base; and a handle connected to the extendable
column.
2. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the
extendable column is pivotally connected to the base.
3. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the
extendable column is pivotally connected to the base such that the
extendable column pivots in the horizontal direction with respect
to a surface on which the stretching apparatus sits.
4. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the
extendable column is pivotally connected to the base such that the
extendable column pivots in the vertical direction with respect to
a surface on which the stretching apparatus sits.
5. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the
extendable column is pivotally connected to the base such that the
extendable column pivots in the horizontal and vertical directions
with respect to a surface on which the stretching apparatus
sits.
6. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein the
handle is adjustable.
7. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 wherein
extendable column comprises at least two telescoping elements
capable of being arranged in a nested arrangement.
8. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein the
extendable column includes a means for extending a first
telescoping element from within a second telescoping element.
9. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 8 further
comprising a means for maintaining the first and second telescoping
elements in a desired orientation.
10. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 7 wherein the
extendable column includes a means for extending a first
telescoping element from outside of a second telescoping
element.
11. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a seat.
12. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 11 wherein the
seat is attached to the base.
13. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 11 wherein the
seat comprises a seat bottom and a seat back.
14. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein the
seat back is adjustable.
15. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 11 wherein the
extendable column is pivotally connected to the base such that the
extendable column pivots about the seat in the horizontal direction
with respect to a surface on which the stretching apparatus
sits.
16. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 11 wherein the
seat is pivotally attached to the base.
17. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein the
seat bottom is adjustable.
18. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 13 wherein the
seat bottom rotates.
19. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 1 further
comprising a foot rest.
20. The stretching apparatus as set forth in claim 19 wherein the
foot rest is adjustable.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims priority from U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/500,293, filed Sep. 4,
2003.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The invention is generally related to an apparatus for
safely facilitating stretching exercises and rehabilitation. More
particularly, the invention is directed to a stretching apparatus
that allows stretching of a wide variety of muscle groups without
undue stress.
DESCRIPTION OF RELATED ART
[0003] A physically fit person is defined by a combination of
strength, endurance, and flexibility. Many individuals concentrate
on strength and endurance by engaging in activities such as weight
lifting and jogging, but ignore the need to be flexible. However,
it is widely recognized by experts in the field that stretching
prior to commencing an exercise regimen is of paramount importance
to reduce the likelihood of exercise related injuries. Furthermore,
lack of flexibility can lead to problems with the lower back, etc.,
as a person ages.
[0004] Stretching is also an important part of any physical therapy
regimen practiced by patients undergoing physical rehabilitation
following an accident or illness, as well as patients seeking
relief from common ailments such as back pain. This type of therapy
is commonly supervised by a highly trained physical therapist, and
may be conducted in a hospital setting or at the patient's home.
Paraplegic and quadriplegic patients must also have their limbs
stretched on a regular basis to avoid further medical
complications. For severely impaired patients, the therapist must
maneuver the patient's limbs through a full range of motion while
at the same time being careful not to force or over stretch the
muscles.
[0005] Traditionally, pre-exercise, post-exercise, as well as
therapeutic stretching exercises, are performed on the floor using
a simple floor mat, or by hanging from a bar. In a typical floor
stretching exercise, a person sits with his legs in a straddle
position extended out in front of his torso. The person bends his
torso into the mat, thereby stretching his legs and back muscles.
To maximize the stretch, the person may extend his arms out over
his head in a reaching fashion and the stretch is held for a short
period of time. The stretching exercise may be assisted with the
help of a partner or therapist. For severely impaired patients, a
therapist must individually move each of the patient's limbs while
the patient is on a table or on the floor. In a hanging stretch
exercise, the person hangs from a bar, such as, for example, in a
chin-up preparation position, and allows the weight of his or her
own body to provide a downward stretch. This method is particularly
undesirable in a therapeutic environment since the full body weight
often provides many times more force than is necessary or desired
to accomplish the stretch, thus putting strain on the muscles.
Additionally, a patient in therapy often lacks the strength in
their hands that is required to support their own body weight.
[0006] In the design and manufacture of exercise machines, the
trend has been to move away from manual or free-weight apparatuses
and to provide more machines which are designed to ensure proper
movement of a specific muscle group. Although this trend has been
more prevalent for muscle building exercise machines, it is
becoming more prevalent for stretching machines as well.
[0007] U.S. Pat. No. 5,108,090 to Reed shows an exercising machine
for stretching a user's leg and back muscles, which closely
simulates conventional floor exercises. A user sits with his legs
extended out and locked in front of his torso. A handgrip is
provided at the end of a motorized telescoping arm for the user to
grasp. Forward and reverse buttons on the handgrip are used to
control the direction of the telescoping arm as it pulls the user
to the floor or pushes him back to a sitting position. This machine
is mechanically complex and extremely limited in the types of
exercises and range of motions that can be accomplished. For
example, this type of machine cannot be used in a therapeutic
environment where the patient has a back injury and is physically
unable to bend at the torso. Additionally, since it is a user
operated motorized machine, that is actually stretching the
muscles, it would be easy for an inexperienced or overzealous user
to go too far and cause muscle hyperextension or some other
unhealthy result.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 4,844,453 to Hestilow shows an example of a
stretching machine where a user sits with his legs secured in a
pair of leg decks which are longitudinally slidable to accommodate
different size users. A hydraulic jack is used to move the leg
decks in an arc movement to stretch the user's legs in a
spread-eagled fashion. A handle bar is positioned in front of the
user in the same plane as the user's legs to aid in front
stretches.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,445,684 to Ruff shows a leg stretch machine
somewhat similar to the one that is described in Hestilow. A crank
and ratchet mechanism is provided which, when turned, moves a pair
of spreader arms to split a user's legs apart. A hand-grip is
bolted to a central bar in front of the user near the ground. This
allows the user to pull his upper body closer to the floor with his
legs spread thereby simulating various martial arts positions.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,137,504 to Mangini shows a stretching
machine where a seat is provided with pivotally mounted leg
platforms extending there from. A user sits in the seat in an
upright position with his legs strapped into the leg platforms. The
machine employs a steering wheel type crank which, when turned,
moves the leg platforms and stretches the user's legs apart. A rod
is positioned directly in front of the user. The rod has a left and
right hand grip and a cable extending from the center of the rod to
the seat backrest. When the user grasps and turns the rod, a
ratchet mechanism winds the cable around the rod pulling the
backrest forward and causing the user to assume a bent over
posture. In this manner, the leg and back muscles are stretched
simultaneously.
[0011] The aforementioned stretch exercise machines offer
significant improvement over conventional floor exercises in that
they ensure proper muscle movement and, in most cases, allow for
holding the muscles in a stretched position for a period of time.
Unfortunately, the stretch machines only allow the user to assume a
straight-out, bent over posture and do not permit side-to-side
movements or vertical stretch movements, which simulate
hanging.
[0012] To date few advances have been made in the design of
machines which facilitate stretching exercises. Typical examples
are U.S. Pat. No. 5,421,801 to Davies and U.S. Pat. No. 5,529,560
to Davies. These machines are essentially leg stretching machines
with an added back stretching bar. The user sits on these machines
with their legs positioned outward, resting on a pair of movable
leg supports. The user turns a crank to which moves the leg
supports outward, away from each other in a jaw like fashion thus
stretching the legs apart. The user then positions the stretching
beam, captured between the two leg supports in front of him, grasps
the handle that rides along the beam and stretches forward thus
stretching the users' back. While primitive, this is the finest
back stretcher to date. Unfortunately, the stretch machines only
allow the user to assume a straight-out, bent over posture and
side-to-side stretching is limited by the leg flexibility of the
user.
[0013] It is important that stretching be carried out with smooth
continuous movements, rather than bouncy movements, in order to
avoid injuries during the stretching exercise itself. Ideally, the
muscles should be in a relaxed state to maximize the stretch and to
avoid undue stress on the muscle, tendons, and skeleton. In
addition stretching a wide variety of muscle groups will maximize
the benefit to the user. Having a machine designed to accomplish
these objectives would be advantageous since it would encourage
healthy individuals to include stretching in their fitness routine,
and would aid in rehabilitation and treatment regimens as well as
reduce the cost of therapy.
[0014] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a stretching apparatus for stretching a wide variety of a
user's muscle groups.
[0015] It is an object of this invention to provide a stretching
apparatus useful for rehabilitation, medical treatment and
fitness.
[0016] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
stretching apparatus which is convenient and easy to use.
[0017] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
stretching apparatus which allows for a wide variety of stretches
in a wide variety of directions.
[0018] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
stretching apparatus which decreases the risk of injury to the
user.
[0019] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a stretching apparatus which allows for smooth and
continuous movements by the user.
[0020] Finally, it is an object of the present invention to
accomplish the foregoing objectives in a simple and cost effective
manner.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0021] A stretching apparatus provides safe and effective
stretching of a wide variety of muscle groups while the user is in
a relaxed sitting or semi-prone orientation. The stretching
apparatus includes a mechanism for stretching the back, arm and
shoulder muscles without using the full weight of the patient to
apply the stretching force. The back, arm, shoulder muscles, and
joints of a paraplegic can be stretched with the user in a seated
position. For example, the user is permitted to stretch above his
head as well as towards his or her feet. In addition, the back and
arm muscles and joints can be stretched with the user's torso being
turned towards one side or the other, thus, a different set of
muscle groups and joints are stretched than when the torso is
oriented in a forward direction. The stretching apparatus can also
include a mechanism for allowing the user to stretch in an arched
back position thus allowing additional backstretches. When the user
is seated with the stretching bar positioned at his side, or he
positions the telescoping stretching bar to either side of his
torso he can stretch the shoulder joint and the various muscles of
his shoulder. All stretching mechanisms can be motorized,
controlled by hand crank, and or computer controlled by adding
sensors, cables, pulleys, ropes, gears, chains, torque converters
or any suitable means. In addition, a weight attachment, magnetic
or mechanical resistance may be added to the back stretching
apparatus to add strengthening capabilities to the telescoping
stretching bar. Electronic sensors may be added for positive
feedback to the user, such as audible commands or tones, as well as
to provide a trainer or therapist with stretching assessment
information. There can be as few as two tubes for the telescoping
section of the telescoping stretching bar; however, there can be
three or more depending on the extension length desired. The
pivoting end of the telescoping section may be either the smaller
or the larger diameter tube. The telescoping stretching bar handle
may take several forms such as Velcro straps, a T handle, or other.
The telescoping stretching bar may also have a fixed hand grip
means at the end or may have an attachment port at the end to
accommodate the various handle configurations or other attachments.
The hand grip may also be slidably connected to the telescoping
section of the stretching bar. The footrest may be removable and
can be adjustable and can also rotate up to 360 degrees. The
stretching machine may also contain a seat or back support and can
include a single or multiple pivoting arms. The location of the
pivoting arms may vary depending on the application. There are also
other mechanisms that can be built into this stretching machine
like a thigh spreading mechanism or a leg spreading mechanism.
Indices can be added to the moving mechanisms to represent degrees
similar to a goniometry. A scale similar to that of a yardstick can
be added to the telescoping section of the stretching machine for
measuring the stretch. All angle adjustments will use pin locks or
other suitable means.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] FIGS. 1 & 2 are side and top views, respectively, of the
stretching machine according to the first embodiment (29) of the
stretching machine invention, which is wheelchair accessible or can
be used while standing;
[0023] FIGS. 3 & 4 are side and top views, respectively, of the
stretching machine according to the second embodiment (27) of the
stretching machine invention where a seat (7) has been added to the
first embodiment (29) of the stretching machine invention;
[0024] FIGS. 5 & 6 are side and top views, respectively, of the
stretching machine according to the third embodiment (22) of the
stretching machine invention where a back support assembly (37) has
been added to the second embodiment (27) of the stretching machine
invention;
[0025] FIG. 7 is a side view of the stretching machine according to
the fourth embodiment (38) of the stretching machine invention
wherein the pivoting arm (3) of the stretching machine has been
added to the third embodiment (22) of the stretching machine
invention;
[0026] FIG. 8 is a top view of the stretching machine according to
the fifth embodiment (39) of the stretching machine invention where
movable seat back assembly (37) ports (30) have been added to the
second embodiment (27) of the stretching machine invention;
[0027] FIGS. 9a and 9b are side views and FIG. 10 is a top view of
the stretching machine according to the sixth embodiment (21) of
the stretching machine invention. The telescoping stretching bar
(32) can now pivot to either side of the seat because the
horizontal pivot of the horizontal pivoting arm (12) of the
telescoping stretching bar 32 has moved from in front of the seat
to under the seat to the central pivot point (6) of the third
embodiment (22) of the stretching machine invention;
[0028] FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c and 12 are side views and FIGS. 13, 14,
15 and 16 are top views of the stretching machine according to the
seventh embodiment (20) of the stretching machine invention where
the pivoting arm (3) of the stretching machine has been added to
the sixth embodiment (21) of the stretching machine invention;
[0029] FIG. 17 & 18 are side and top views, respectively, of
the stretching machine according to the eighth embodiment (40) of
the invention where a swivel seat has been added to the first
embodiment (29) of the stretching machine invention;
[0030] FIG. 19 is a side view of the retracted stretching bar that
can be used by this invention;
[0031] FIG. 20 is a top view of the expanded stretching bar that
can be used by this invention;
[0032] FIG. 21 is a side view of the seat back assembly that can be
used by this invention;
[0033] FIG. 22 is a top view of a rack that can be used with FIG.
23 to complete a two-piece ratchet assembly used by this
invention;
[0034] FIG. 23 is a top view of a pull pin-lock with a beveled pin
that can be used with FIG. 22 to complete a two-piece ratchet
assembly used by this invention;
[0035] FIG. 24 is a top view of the retracted stretching bar that
can be used by this invention; and
[0036] FIG. 25 is a side view of the retracted stretching bar that
can be used by this invention.
[0037] FIG. 26 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the
invention;
[0038] FIG. 27 is a top view of the alternate embodiment of the
invention shown in FIG. 26;
[0039] FIGS. 28a and 28b are side views of the gimbal mechanism of
the alternate embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 26; and
[0040] FIG. 29 is a side view of an alternate embodiment of the
present invention.
ELEMENT LIST
[0041] 1. Base
[0042] 2. Telescoping section of stretching bar
[0043] 3. Pivoting arm
[0044] 4. Footrest
[0045] 5. Vertical angle adjustment for the telescoping stretching
bar
[0046] 6. Central pivot
[0047] 7. Seat
[0048] 8. Backrest
[0049] 9. Handle
[0050] 10. Adjustable pivot for handle
[0051] 11. Horizontal angle adjustment of telescoping stretching
bar
[0052] 12. Horizontal pivoting arm of the telescoping stretching
bar
[0053] 13. Vertical arc of the telescoping stretching bar
[0054] 14. Vertical arc of back support assembly
[0055] 15. Telescoping direction of telescoping stretching bar
[0056] 16. Height adjustment for back support assembly
[0057] 17. Depth adjustment for back support assembly
[0058] 18. Horizontal arc of pivoting arm of stretching machine
[0059] 19. Horizontal arc of stretching bar
[0060] 20. Seventh embodiment of the invention
[0061] 21. Sixth embodiment of the invention
[0062] 22. Third embodiment of the invention
[0063] 23. Arc of handle
[0064] 24. Counter balance for stretching bar
[0065] 25. Arc of footrest
[0066] 26. Vertical member of base
[0067] 27. Second embodiment of the invention
[0068] 28. Ratchet release or pin-lock
[0069] 29. First embodiment of the invention
[0070] 30. Port for movable back support assembly
[0071] 31. Landing area
[0072] 32. Telescoping stretching bar
[0073] 33. Holes
[0074] 34. Pin lock for vertical angle adjustment of stretching
bar
[0075] 35. Pin lock for horizontal angle adjustment of stretching
bar
[0076] 36. Pin lock for horizontal angle adjustment of pivoting arm
of stretching machine
[0077] 37. Back support assembly
[0078] 38. Fourth embodiment of the invention
[0079] 39. Fifth embodiment of the invention
[0080] 40. Eighth embodiment of the invention
[0081] 41. Horizontal arc of pivoting back support assembly
[0082] 42. Stretching bar horizontal pivot point
[0083] 43. Stretching bar vertical pivot point
[0084] 44. Pivot for stretching bar handle
[0085] 45. Pin lock for stretching bar handle
[0086] 46. Bearings for telescoping tubes of telescoping stretching
bar
[0087] 47. Pivot for footrest
[0088] 48. Inner tube of telescoping stretching bar assembly
[0089] 49. Middle tube of telescoping stretching bar assembly
[0090] 50. Outer tube of telescoping stretching bar assembly
[0091] 51. Pin lock for stretching bar attachments
[0092] 52. Stretching bar attachment port
[0093] 53. Vertical angle adjustment for back support assembly
[0094] 54. Vertical pivot point for back support assembly
[0095] 55. Upright support for back support assembly
[0096] 56. Backrest support for back support assembly
[0097] 57. Beveled pin
[0098] 58. Sliding carriage
[0099] 59. Direction of movement of sliding carriage
[0100] 60. Gimbal mechanism
[0101] 61. Height adjustment for vertical member
[0102] 62. Horizontal angle adjustment for gimbal mechanism
[0103] 63. Vertical angle adjustment for gimbal mechanism
[0104] 64. Seat tilting mechanism
[0105] 65. Seat tilt angle adjuster
[0106] 66. Seat tilt locking mechanism
[0107] 67. Seat swivel mechanism
[0108] 68. Pivot plate
[0109] 69. Tension springs
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0110] The following detailed description is of the best presently
contemplated modes of carrying out the invention. This description
is not to be taken in a limiting sense, but is made merely for the
purpose of illustrating general principles of embodiments of the
invention.
[0111] Referring now to the drawings, and more particularly to
FIGS. 1 and 2, there are shown side and top views of the stretching
machine generally referred to by the reference numeral 29. The
support frame of the stretching machine is comprised of a base 1
which contains a single or multiple vertical support members 26
which are preferably made from tubular steel or a similar sturdy
material of any desired cross-section, for example, round, square,
U-shaped, or other appropriate shape. In the preferred embodiment,
the telescoping stretching bar assembly 32 (shown in additional
detail in FIGS. 19 and 20) consists of three nesting sections 48,
49, 50 and attaches to a vertical support member 26 of the base 1.
In the preferred embodiment, the stretching machine includes an
arm, back and shoulder stretching component called the telescoping
stretching bar 32. The telescoping stretching bar 32 projects
outward from the base 1 and may be pivotally mounted to support 26
at a horizontal pivoting arm 12. The telescoping stretching bar 32
has a vertical angle adjustment 5 that pivots at the telescoping
stretching bar vertical pivot point 43. A counter balance 24 may be
used if desired. This pivot allows a seated user to change the
vertical angle of the telescoping stretching bar 32, while seated,
to any position along the vertical arc 13 of the telescoping
stretching bar 32, thus allowing the user to sit and fully extend
his arms either directly above his head, directly in front of his
torso, or at any angle there between, as depicted by the vertical
arc 13 of the telescoping stretching bar 32.
[0112] In addition, the telescoping stretching bar 32 can be
pivoted to an angular orientation with respect to the user's waist
as shown on FIG. 2 by arrow 19. The horizontal adjustment may be
accomplished by moving the horizontal pivoting arm 12 towards the
left or right while changing the horizontal angle adjustment 11
that pivots at pivot 42.
[0113] The telescoping stretching bar assembly 32 may include a
handle 9 connected to a pivot 10 at its end or may contain an
attachment port 52 at its end to accept a variety of other
attachments which may be locked in place by means of a pin lock 51
(see FIG. 20 for additional detail). The handle 9 may take numerous
forms such as, for example, rubber or Velcro straps (not shown), a
T handle or other suitable means for grasping. The handle 9 can
pivot about pivot point 44 for particular exercises and can achieve
any angular orientation as shown by arrow 23 on FIG. 19. A pin lock
45 is preferably used to retain the handle in the desired angular
orientation. There can also be an attachment port 52 as shown on
FIG. 20 for the handle 9 and other attachment types. The handle 9
may also be attached to a carriage 58, as shown on FIGS. 1 Ic, 24
and 25, that is slidably attached to the telescoping stretching bar
32 such that movement in the direction of arrow 59 is
permitted.
[0114] If desired, the stretching machine 29 may include a footrest
4. The footrest 4 may be adjustable about pivot point 47 through
angle 25 as shown in further detail in FIG. 19 and may further be
removable.
[0115] In operation the user may move his wheelchair to the landing
area 31 according to FIGS. 1 and 2. The user then faces the
telescoping stretching bar 32, grasps the handle 9, and adjusts the
vertical angle 5 by pulling out the pin lock 34 then pushes the
telescoping stretching bar 32 away from or pulls the bar to his
body and then releases the pin lock 34 when the desired vertical
angle along arc 13 is achieved. Then in a similar fashion the
horizontal angle is chosen by pulling the horizontal angle
adjustment pin lock 35, while still grasping handle 9, and swinging
the telescoping stretching bar 32, which is pivoting now at pivot
point 42, along arc 19 until the desired horizontal angle is
achieved. The user then releases pin lock 35 and the horizontal
angle is locked in. The user then begins to stretch, pushing the
handle 9 outward away from his body in the direction shown by arrow
15. The telescoping sections 2 of the telescoping stretching bar 32
now extend in the selected direction under the force of the user.
Resistance may be added if desired to oppose the user's movements
with bearings 46 providing smooth motion of the telescoping
sections 2.
[0116] A ratchet mechanism (shown in detail in FIGS. 22 and 27)
built into the telescoping stretching bar 32 permits movement only
in one direction. While engaged, the handle 9 cannot slip backwards
and the telescoping stretching bar 32 may hold the user in a
stretched position for any desired period of time. The ratchet
mechanism may be designed to click at specific intervals, such as,
for example, every centimeter. Indicia may be provided along the
length of the telescoping stretching bar 32 to provide positive
feedback regarding the distance of the stretch and thereby allow
the user to monitor his progress. Since the user may be stretching
his arms, back and shoulders on his own initiative and not under
the influence of some outside force, there is no danger of muscle
hyperextension or other stretching related injury. A release lever
28 may be provided to release the ratchet mechanism so that the
handle 9 can be lowered for another exercise repetition.
[0117] The user may also enter wheelchair landing area 31 from the
side thus positioning himself to have the telescoping stretching
bar 32 towards their left or their right arm. In this position the
user will operate the telescoping stretching bar 32 in the same
manner as before however the resulting stretch will be focused on
the shoulder muscles, ligaments and joints closest to the bar.
[0118] In addition to the previously described stretches the user
may also use the telescoping stretching bar 32 for single arm
stretching in the same manner by grasping the handle 9 or other
suitable attachment with a single hand. It may be necessary to
assist paraplegic users when performing arm, shoulder and back
stretching exercises. This can be easily accomplished by either a
therapist helping the user to lift the handle 9 or by motorizing
the arm and back stretching component. In the latter case, a
motorized mechanism would slowly raise the handle 9 in a continuous
motion to stretch a disabled user's arms, shoulders and back. For
safety, an adjustable torque converter could be used which stops
when a preset resistance is encountered during an exercise.
Resistance may be added if desired to oppose the user's movements.
Since, the ratchet mechanism permits movement only in one
direction, the handle 9 cannot slip backwards and the machine 29
can hold the user in a stretched position for any desired period of
time.
[0119] Referring now to FIGS. 3 and 4, there are shown side and top
views of the second embodiment of the stretching machine generally
referred to by the reference numeral 27. This stretching machine is
similar to the first embodiment 29 of the stretching machine with
the addition of a seat 7 added at the top of the base. If desired,
vertical support members 26 of different lengths may be used to
angle the seat 7. For example, if the vertical support members at
the rear of the sear 7 are shorter than the vertical support
members 26 at the forward edge of the seat 7, gravity will force
the user towards the back of the seat 7, thus aiding in the
stretch. Alternatively, the angular orientation of the seat 7 may
be adjustable. The seat 7 may also include grab bars on either or
both sides. The grab bars may be attached to the seat 7 or to the
base 1 as preferred.
[0120] According to FIG. 3 the user may sit facing the telescoping
stretching bar 32 or may sit facing north with the telescoping
stretching bar 32 to his left or the user may sit facing south with
the telescoping stretching bar to his right. In this configuration,
the stretching machine has a broader target user. An athlete, as
well as a physical therapy patient may use this apparatus. In
operation the user can sit facing the telescoping stretching bar 32
on seat 7 according to FIGS. 3 and 4. The user then does all
forward stretching in the same fashion as described in the first
embodiment 29 of the stretching machine. Similarly, when the user
is on the apparatus with their left arm or right arm adjacent to
the telescoping stretching bar 32 the resulting stretch is also the
same as previously described for the first embodiment 29 of this
invention.
[0121] FIGS. 5 and 6 represent the third embodiment of this
stretching machine generally referred to by the reference numeral
22. This stretching machine is similar to the second embodiment 27
of the stretching machine with the addition of a back support
assembly 37 which may be particularly effective for providing upper
and lower lumber support for a user when the telescoping stretching
bar 32 is oriented in a vertical position. Pin locks can be used to
permit the back rest 8 to move in the direction of arrow 16 along
an upright support beam 55 or in the direction of arrow 17 along a
backrest support beam 56. The vertical angle 14 of the back support
assembly 37 may also be adjusted about a pivot point 54 as required
for certain exercises. This can be accomplished by changing the
back support assembly vertical angle adjustment 53 on FIG. 21. The
stretching routine however, remains the same as with the second
embodiment 27 of the machine.
[0122] FIG. 7 represents the fourth embodiment of this stretching
machine generally referred to by the reference numeral 38. This
stretching machine is similar to the third embodiment 22 of the
stretching machine with the addition of a pivoting arm 3 attached
to the back support assembly 37. This pivoting arm 3 can allow the
back support assembly 37 to swivel, preferably 360.degree., and can
lock at various positions around the seat 7 with pin lock 36. The
pivoting arm 3 can be used to attach a bar, a seat or other
appropriate attachment. The stretching routine however, remains the
same as with the previous embodiments of the invention.
[0123] FIG. 8 represents the fifth embodiment of this stretching
machine generally referred to by the reference numeral 39. This
stretching machine is similar to the third embodiment 22 of the
stretching machine with the back support assembly 37 of FIG. 21
being a separate attachment that may be moved to various ports 30
around the seat 7. This configuration of the stretching machine
invention would be cheaper to construct than reference numeral 38.
The stretching routine however, remains the same as with the
previous embodiments of the invention.
[0124] FIGS. 9a, 9b and 10 represent the sixth embodiment of this
stretching machine generally referred to by the reference numeral
21. This stretching machine is similar to the third embodiment 22
of the stretching machine wherein the horizontal pivoting arm 12
has been lengthened and the pivot mechanism has been changed and is
now represented by reference numeral 6. This stretching machine has
the advantage of improved ergonomic forward stretching. In
operation, the user sits facing the telescoping stretching bar on
the seat 7 according to FIGS. 9 and 10. The user may then grasp the
handle 9, adjust the vertical angle 5, as previously described, and
finally adjust the horizontal angle 18 by pulling out the pin lock
36 and swinging the telescoping stretching bar 32 left or right and
releasing pull pin 36 when the telescoping stretching bar 32 is in
the proper position. The user can then begin to stretch, pushing
the handle 9 outward away from his body. The telescoping stretching
sections 2 now extend under the force of the user, in the selected
direction. Resistance may be added if desired to oppose the user's
movements.
[0125] A ratchet mechanism (see FIGS. 22 and 27) can be built into
the telescoping stretching bar 32 which permits movement only in
one direction. While engaged, the handle 9 cannot slip backwards
and the telescoping stretching bar 32 holds the user in a stretched
position for any desired period of time. The ratchet mechanism may
be designed to click at specific intervals, such as, for example,
every centimeter. Indicia may be provided along the length of the
telescoping stretching bar 32 to provide positive feedback
regarding the distance of the stretch and thereby allow the user to
monitor his progress. Since the user may be stretching his arms,
back and shoulders on his own initiative and not under the
influence of some outside force, there is no danger of muscle
hyperextension or other stretching related injury. A release lever
28 may be provided to release the ratchet mechanism so that the
handle 9 can be lowered for another exercise repetition.
[0126] The user may also sit on the seat 7, positioning himself to
have the telescoping stretching bar 32 towards their left arm or
their right arm. In this position, the user will operate the
telescoping stretching bar 32 in the same manner as before however
the resulting stretch will be focused on the shoulder muscles,
ligaments and joints closest to the bar.
[0127] In addition to the previously described stretches, the user
may also use the telescoping stretching bar for single arm
stretching in the same manner by grasping the handle 9 or other
suitable attachment with a single hand. It may be necessary to
assist paraplegic users when performing arm, shoulder and back
stretching exercises. This can be easily accomplished by either a
therapist helping the user to lift the handle 9 or by motorizing
the arm and back stretching component. In the latter case a
motorized mechanism would slowly raise the handle 9 in a continuous
motion to stretch a disabled user's arms, shoulders and back. For
safety, an adjustable torque converter could be used which stops
when a preset resistance is encountered during an exercise.
Resistance may be added if desired to oppose the user's movements.
Since, the ratchet mechanism permits movement only in one
direction, the handle 9 cannot slip backwards and the machine 21
can hold the user in a stretched position for any desired period of
time.
[0128] FIGS. 11a, 11b, 11c, 12, 13, 14, 15 and 16 represent the
seventh embodiment of this stretching machine generally referred to
by the reference numeral 20. This stretching machine is a merging
of technology represented in the third 22 and sixth 21 embodiments
of the stretching machine. By adding the pivoting arm 3 and pivot
point 6 to the third embodiment 22 of the stretching machine, the
number of three dimensional positions of the telescoping stretching
bar 32 is substantially increased, thus making this version of the
stretching machine more versatile than many of the others. In
operation, the user can sit facing the telescoping stretching bar
32 on seat 7 according to FIGS. 1 and 2. The user may then grasp
the handle 9, adjust the vertical angle 5 and adjust the horizontal
angle 11 thus selecting the stretching angle. The user can then
begin to stretch, pushing the handle 9 outward away from his body.
The telescoping stretching bar 32 now extends under the force of
the user, in the selected direction. Resistance may be added if
desired to oppose the user's movements.
[0129] A ratchet mechanism can be built into the telescoping
stretching bar 32 which permits movement only in one direction.
While engaged, the ratchet mechanism prevents the handle 9 from
slipping backwards, allowing the telescoping stretching bar 32 to
hold the user in a stretched position for any desired period of
time. The ratchet mechanism may be designed to click at specific
intervals, such as, for example, every centimeter. Indicia may be
provided along the length of the telescoping stretching bar 32 to
provide positive feedback regarding the distance of the stretch and
thereby allow the user to monitor his progress. Since the user may
be stretching his arms, back and shoulders on his own initiative
and not under the influence of some outside force, there is no
danger of muscle hyperextension or other stretching related injury.
A release lever 28 may be provided to release the ratchet mechanism
so that the handle 9 can be lowered for another exercise
repetition.
[0130] The user may also sit on seat 7 positioning himself to have
the telescoping stretching bar 32, towards their left arm or their
right arm. In this position, the user will operate the telescoping
stretching bar 32 in the same manner as before however the
resulting stretch will be focused on the shoulder muscles,
ligaments and joints closest to the bar. In addition to the
previously described stretches, the user may also use the
telescoping stretching bar for single arm stretching in the same
manner by grasping the handle 9 or other suitable attachment with a
single hand. It may be necessary to assist paraplegic users when
performing arm, shoulder and back stretching exercises. This can be
easily accomplished by either a therapist helping the user to lift
the handle 9 or by motorizing the arm and back stretching
component. In the latter case a motorized mechanism would slowly
raise the handle 9 in a continuous motion to stretch a disabled
user's arms, shoulders and back. For safety, an adjustable torque
converter could be used which stops when a preset resistance is
encountered during an exercise. Resistance may be added if desired
to oppose the user's movements.
[0131] FIGS. 17 and 18 represent the eighth embodiment of this
stretching machine generally referred to by the reference numeral
40. This stretching machine is similar to the third embodiment 22
of the stretching machine with the addition of a seat pivot (not
shown) allowing the seat to rotate up to 360 degrees through angle
41. This version of the stretching machine would be easier to
construct than many other versions. The stretching routine however,
remains the same as with the first embodiment of the machine.
[0132] FIGS. 22 and 23 show the preferred mechanism for providing
the sliding stretch described above. As discussed above, a ratchet
mechanism can be used to provide a one-way stretch. The preferred
ratchet mechanism is constructed by creating holes 33 in the
telescoping stretching bar 32 as shown in FIG. 22. A pin lock 28
which has a spring loaded, beveled pin 57 is used to maintain
motion in a single direction of the telescoping sections 2 of the
telescoping stretching bar 32. As the beveled pin 57 moves along
the holes 33 in the telescoping stretching bar 32, the beveled pin
57 is forced inward, against the spring (not shown). As the beveled
pin 57 reaches each hole 33, the spring forces the beveled pin 57
into each hole 33, thus providing one way movement of the
telescoping sections 2 of the telescoping stretching bar 32. While
the preferred method is the ratchet mechanism described, other
methods, such as a pull pin, may be satisfactory.
[0133] FIGS. 26-28 show an alternate embodiment of the present
invention in which the seat 7 is adjustable from a horizontal
orientation. The seat rotates around a tilting mechanism 64 and is
locked at the desired angle by means of a locking mechanism 66 and
angle adjusters 65. The seat 7 may also, if desired, swivel about a
swivel mechanism 67.
[0134] The stretching bar 32 is mounted on a gimbal assembly 60
which allows translation of the bar 32 from a vertical orientation
to a horizontal orientation through a vertical angle adjustment
mechanism 63 and locking of the bar at a desired location from
vertical to horizontal. The gimbal mechanism 60 also allows
rotation of the bar 32 through a horizontal angle adjustment
mechanism 62. The height of the bar can also be adjusted through a
height adjustment mechanism 61.
[0135] FIG. 27 shows an alternate embodiment of the ratchet
mechanism shown in FIG. 22. As before, the ratchet mechanism is
constructed by creating holes 33 in each section 2 of the
telescoping stretching bar 32. A pin lock 28 which has a spring
loaded, beveled pin 57 (see FIG. 23) is used to maintain motion of
the telescoping sections 2 in a single direction. As the beveled
pin 57 moves along the holes 33 in the telescoping stretching bar
32, the beveled pin 57 is forced inward, against the spring (not
shown). As the beveled pin 57 reaches each hole 33, the spring
forces the beveled pin 57 into each hole 33, thus providing one way
movement of the telescoping sections 2 of the telescoping
stretching bar 32.
[0136] As described above, movement of the telescoping sections 2
of the stretching bar 32 is preferably controlled by a ratchet
mechanism such as that shown in FIGS. 22 and 27. An alternate
method of controlling the movement of the telescoping sections 2 of
the stretching bar 32 is shown in FIG. 29. In this embodiment, one
or more pivot plates 68 are connected to the outer telescoping
section 2 by means of a tension spring 69. The spring 69 biases the
pivot plates 68 towards an angled orientation which is preferably
about 30.degree. from a line perpendicular to the central
longitudinal axis of the telescoping sections 2. At this angle, an
opening in the pivot plate 68 approximates the outer perimeter of
the telescoping section 2 and maintains frictional contact with the
telescoping section 2. To extend the stretching bar 32, each
telescoping section 2 is moved from its nested orientation. In this
direction, movement is not impeded by the pivot plates 68; however,
movement in the opposite direction is prevented by the geometry of
the plates 68 and the outer telescoping section 2. To return the
telescoping sections 2 to their nested orientation, the ends of the
pivot plates 68, which are opposite the attachment points of the
tension springs 69, are lifted, against the bias of the springs 69,
and the telescoping sections 2 can return to their nested
orientation.
[0137] While the description above refers to particular embodiments
of the present invention, it will be understood that many
modifications may be made without departing from the spirit
thereof. The accompanying claims are intended to cover such
modifications as would fall within the true scope and spirit of the
present invention.
* * * * *