U.S. patent application number 10/971752 was filed with the patent office on 2005-05-12 for exercise machine.
Invention is credited to Campitelli, Frank A..
Application Number | 20050101464 10/971752 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34555904 |
Filed Date | 2005-05-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050101464 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Campitelli, Frank A. |
May 12, 2005 |
Exercise machine
Abstract
An exercise machine includes a frame with a bench and/or
standing platform mounted thereon. A pivotable member is pivotally
mounted on the frame and rotates against a force produced by gas
springs or other mechanisms each pivotally and removably connected
to the frame and pivotable member at respective mounting locations.
The gas springs are selectively mountable at a variety of locations
in order to vary the direction and degree of force against which
the user works. A handle and foot rest may be connected to the
pivotable member and a cable-pulley assembly may be mounted on the
pivotable member and frame for manipulation by a user. The
pivotable member may be bent or curved toward the frame. A mounting
structure may be slidable along the pivotable member or members of
the frame to facilitate positioning of the gas springs for
adjusting the degree of resistant force experienced by the
user.
Inventors: |
Campitelli, Frank A.;
(Malvern, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
SAND & SEBOLT
AEGIS TOWER, SUITE 1100
4940 MUNSON STREET, NW
CANTON
OH
44718-3615
US
|
Family ID: |
34555904 |
Appl. No.: |
10/971752 |
Filed: |
October 22, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60513504 |
Oct 22, 2003 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
482/142 ;
482/112 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A63B 21/00072 20130101;
A63B 21/4029 20151001; A63B 23/03525 20130101; A63B 23/1209
20130101; A63B 23/12 20130101; A63B 21/0087 20130101; A63B 21/4034
20151001; A63B 21/4047 20151001; A63B 21/154 20130101; A63B 21/4043
20151001; A63B 23/0355 20130101; A63B 2208/0252 20130101; A63B
23/1236 20130101; A63B 2208/0233 20130101; A63B 23/0405
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
482/142 ;
482/112 |
International
Class: |
A63B 022/00; A63B
069/18; A63B 021/008; A63B 026/00 |
Claims
1. An exercise machine comprising: a frame adapted to sit on a
floor and having a plurality of frame mounting locations; a
pivotable member pivotally mounted on the frame about a pivot axis
and having at least one pivotable member mounting location; and at
least one gas spring mountable at the at least one pivotable member
mounting location and selectively mountable at a respective one of
the frame mounting locations.
2. The machine of claim 1 wherein the at least one pivotable member
mounting location includes a plurality of mounting locations; and
wherein the at least one gas spring is selectively mountable on the
pivotable member at a respective one of the pivotable member
mounting locations.
3. The machine of claim 2 wherein the at least one gas spring
includes a plurality of gas springs each mounted at a respective
one of the pivotable member mounting locations and at a respective
one of the frame mounting locations.
4. The machine of claim 1 wherein the frame has a pair of opposed
ends and a pair of opposed sides; and wherein the pivotable member
is substantially centered between the opposed sides of the
frame.
5. The machine of claim 1 further including a first stop to limit
rotation of the pivotable member in a first direction and a second
stop to limit rotation of the pivotable member in a second
direction opposite the first direction.
6. The machine of claim 1 wherein at least one pulley is mounted on
one of the pivotable member and the frame; wherein a flexible line
adapted to be pulled movably engages the at least one pulley so
that the pivotable member rotates about the pivot axis in response
to movement of the flexible line.
7. The machine of claim 6 wherein the at least one pulley is
mounted on the pivotable member whereby the pulley moves with
rotation of the pivotable member so that the direction in which the
flexible line is pulled varies as a result of the rotation of the
pivotable member.
8. The machine of claim 1 wherein one of the at least one pivotable
member mounting locations and the frame mounting locations is
selectively movable and selectively securable at a desired
location; and wherein the at least one gas spring is selectively
positionable via the selectively movable mounting location to
control the amount of force acting against pivotal movement the
pivotable member.
9. The machine of claim 1 wherein the at least one gas spring
includes a pair of gas springs mounting opposite one another
respectively on opposite sides of the pivotable member.
10. The machine of claim 1 wherein the at least one gas spring
includes a plurality of gas springs; wherein a set of a plurality
of mounting locations is mounted on the pivotable member and a set
of a plurality of mounting locations is mounted on the frame;
wherein the sets are associated with one another such that a
plurality of gas springs are each mountable on each of the sets at
a respective mounting location thereof.
11. The machine of claim 1 wherein a mounting member for mounting
the at least one force producing member is removably mounted on one
of the frame and the pivotable member to allow removal and
replacement of the mounting member if damaged.
12. The machine of claim 1 wherein the pivotable member includes a
first portion extending from adjacent the pivot axis in a first
direction and a second portion extending from adjacent the pivot
axis in a second direction generally opposite to the first
direction.
13. The machine of claim 12 wherein the at least one pivotable
member mounting location includes a mounting location on each of
the first and second portions of the pivotable member.
14. The machine of claim 12 wherein the frame has a front end and a
rear end; wherein a user support is mounted on the frame adjacent
the front end of the frame; and wherein the second portion of the
pivotable member extends rearwardly beyond the rear end of the
frame.
15. The machine of claim 12 wherein a user support is mounted on
the frame; wherein at least part of the first portion of the
pivotable member extends over the user support when the pivotable
member is in a fully forward rotated position; and wherein no part
of the second portion of the pivotable member extends over the user
support.
16. The machine of claim 12 wherein a handle is connected to the
first portion and adapted to be moved by a user to rotate the
pivotable member; wherein the second portion of the pivotable
member has a terminal end and is configured so that the terminal
end extends downwardly when the pivotable member is in a fully
forward rotated position; and wherein the at least one pivotable
member mounting location includes a mounting location on the second
portion of the pivotable member.
17. The machine of claim 12 wherein a handle is connected to the
first portion and adapted to be moved by a user to rotate the
pivotable member; wherein the second portion of the pivotable
member is curved toward the frame; and wherein a mounting member is
selectively movably mounted on the curved second portion to provide
a plurality of pivotable member mounting locations along the curved
second portion.
18. The machine of claim 17 wherein the mounting member is disposed
on a sleeve defining a passage which receives the curved second
portion of the pivotable member whereby the sleeve is slidably
movable along the curved portion.
19. The machine of claim 12 wherein a handle is mounted on the
first portion of the pivotable member and a footrest is mounted on
the second portion of the pivotable member.
20. The machine of claim 12 wherein a handle is mounted on the
first portion of the pivotable member to form a T-shaped structure
with the first portion as the upright and the handle as the cross
bar thereof.
21. The machine of claim 12 wherein one of the first and second
portions of the pivotable member is curved toward the frame and has
a terminal end distal the pivot axis; and wherein the curved
portion adjacent the terminal end thereof abuts a stop on the frame
to limit rotation of the pivotable member.
22. An exercise machine comprising: a frame adapted to sit on a
floor; the frame having opposed front and rear ends and at least
one frame mounting location; a user support mounted on the frame;
an elongated pivotable member pivotally mounted on the frame about
a pivot axis which is disposed rearwardly of the user support; the
pivotable member including an elongated first portion extending
from adjacent the pivot axis in a generally forward direction and
an elongated second portion extending from adjacent the pivot axis
in a generally rearward direction; the pivotable member having at
least one pivotable member mounting location; and at least one gas
spring mountable at the at least one frame mounting location and
mountable at the least one pivotable member mounting location.
23. The machine of claim 22 wherein the at the least one pivotable
member mounting location includes a mounting location along the
second portion of the pivotable member.
24. The machine of claim 22 wherein the at the least one frame
mounting location is disposed rearwardly of the user support.
25. An exercise machine comprising: a frame adapted to sit on a
floor; the frame having opposed front and rear ends and at least
one frame mounting location; a standing platform mounted on the
frame; an elongated pivotable member pivotally mounted on the frame
about a pivot axis and having at least one pivotable member
mounting location; the pivotable member extending forward of the
pivot axis generally toward the standing platform; and at least one
gas spring mountable at the at least one frame mounting location
and mountable at the at least one pivotable member mounting
location.
26. The machine of claim 25 wherein a bench is removably mounted on
the frame over the standing platform.
27. The machine of claim 25 wherein at least one pulley is mounted
on one of the pivotable member and the frame; wherein a flexible
line movably engages the at least one pulley so that the pivotable
member rotates about the pivot axis in response to movement of the
flexible line; and wherein a handle is connected to the flexible
line and is adapted to be pulled against a force produced by the at
least one gas spring.
Description
CROSS REFERENCED TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a non-provisional application claiming
priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/513,504, filed
Oct. 22, 2003; the contents of which are incorporated herein by
reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The invention relates to an improved exercise machine of the
sort having a bench and/or standing platform for laying, sitting or
standing upon during exercise. More particularly, the invention
relates to such an exercise machine having a pivotable arm upon
which the user imparts a force which is reacted by a gas chamber.
Specifically, the invention relates to such an exercise machine
wherein gas chambers have alternate connection points on a frame
upon which the bench sits and on the pivotable arm, the gas chamber
being removably connected so as to move between alternate
connection points and wherein the pivotable arm is curved or
includes sections bent with respect to one another to facilitate a
preferred feel in the operation of the exercise machine.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] A great deal of exercise machines have been created in the
past to enhance the interaction between the user and the machine.
The well-known weightlifting bench has spawned numerous related
bench-type exercise machines which simulate weightlifting or other
types of movements wherein the user is able to move in a variety of
ways while working against a force generally created by weights.
For example, there are benches connected to pulleys with cables
passing thereover having weights hanging at the other end. One of
the drawbacks to benches utilizing weights is the necessity of
incorporating the weights into the exercise machine. Such weights
not only take up space but are inherently heavy and difficult to
move around, thus tending to make such exercise machines more of a
permanent stationary object as opposed to one which is movable with
relative ease. In addition, the related apparatus for holding the
weights takes up additional space. Moreover, the use of weights
creates injury risks due to dropping them on some portion of the
body. Alternately, a user may incur an injury from the lifting of
weights and then be at additional risk by the fact that the weight
must be lowered while the user is injured. In addition, a given
exercise bench is typically limited to a single type of movement or
a very limited number of such movements. Another problem that
arises with such benches or similar exercise machines relates to
the feel of the machine during operation.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The present invention provides an exercise machine
comprising a frame adapted to sit on a floor and having a plurality
of frame mounting locations; a pivotable member pivotally mounted
on the frame about a pivot axis and having at least one pivotable
member mounting location; and at least one force producing
mechanism mountable at the at least one pivotable member mounting
location and selectively mountable at a respective one of the frame
mounting locations.
[0007] The present invention further provides an exercise machine
comprising a frame adapted to sit on a floor; the frame having
opposed front and rear ends and at least one frame mounting
location; a user support mounted on the frame; an elongated
pivotable member pivotally mounted on the frame about a pivot axis
which is disposed rearwardly of the user support; the pivotable
member including an elongated first portion extending from adjacent
the pivot axis in a generally forward direction and an elongated
second portion extending from adjacent the pivot axis in a
generally rearward direction; the pivotable member having at least
one pivotable member mounting location; and at least one force
producing mechanism mountable at the at least one frame mounting
location and mountable at the least one pivotable member mounting
location.
[0008] The present invention also provides an exercise machine
comprising a frame adapted to sit on a floor; the frame having
opposed front and rear ends and at least one frame mounting
location; a standing platform mounted on the frame; an elongated
pivotable member pivotally mounted on the frame about a pivot axis
and having at least one pivotable member mounting location; the
pivotable member extending forward of the pivot axis generally
toward the standing platform; and at least one force producing
mechanism mountable at the at least one frame mounting location and
mountable at the at least one pivotable member mounting
location.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of the
exercise machine of the present invention.
[0010] FIG. 2 is a side elevational view of the exercise machine
showing a person laying on the bench with retracted or bent
arms.
[0011] FIG. 3 is a figure similar to FIG. 2 except with the
person's arm extended and the handle of the pivotable arm moved
upwardly and the gas chamber undergoing compression.
[0012] FIG. 4 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment
with the gas chamber connected to the bench and the pivotable arm
at different locations and a person sitting in an upright position
on the bench with arms extended to the handle.
[0013] FIG. 5 is similar to FIG. 4 except that the person's arms
are retracted to move the handle of the pivotable arm toward the
person and compress the gas chamber.
[0014] FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the first embodiment
showing the gas chamber in yet another location with the person
sitting on the bench with feet on a foot rest mounted on the
pivotable arm and with knees bent.
[0015] FIG. 7 is similar to FIG. 6 except that the person's legs
are extended to push the foot rest outwardly and extend the gas
chamber to put the gas chamber under compression.
[0016] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the
exercise machine of the present invention wherein the pivotable arm
has several sections that are bent with respect to one another and
wherein a support leg of the frame also has several sections bent
with respect to one another.
[0017] FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
showing a person laying on the bench with arms retracted.
[0018] FIG. 10 is similar to FIG. 9 except the person's arms are
extended to move the handle upwardly and to compress the gas
chamber.
[0019] FIG. 11 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
with the gas chamber connected to a different point on the frame
showing a person with retracted arms laying on the bench.
[0020] FIG. 12 is similar to FIG. 11 except the person has extended
arms to move the handle upwardly and to retract the gas
chamber.
[0021] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
showing an additional gas chamber being connected between the frame
and the pivotable arm and further shows a person laying down on the
bench with arms in a retracted position.
[0022] FIG. 14 is similar to FIG. 13 except the person's arms are
extended to compress the first gas chamber and extend the second
gas chamber.
[0023] FIG. 15 is a side elevational view of the second embodiment
with the first gas chamber removed from the configuration of FIG.
14 and with a person sitting on the bench with arms extended.
[0024] FIG. 16 is similar to FIG. 15 except the person's arms are
retracted to pull the handle downwardly and to compress the gas
chamber.
[0025] FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a third embodiment of the
exercise machine of the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the third embodiment
shown in FIG. 17.
[0027] FIG. 19 is an enlarged sectional view of the encircled
portion of FIG. 18 and shows the adjusting sleeve.
[0028] FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the
present invention showing removal of the bench and the gas
springs.
[0029] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the third embodiment after
removal of the bench and gas springs showing extension of the
handle.
[0030] FIG. 22 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional view of the
securing mechanism used for securing the handle at various
positions.
[0031] FIG. 23 is a side elevational view of the third embodiment
showing the rotation of the handle to a raised position.
[0032] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the
present invention utilizing a pulley and cable assembly and
alternate location of the gas springs wherein the bench is
removed.
[0033] FIG. 25 is a side elevational view of the third embodiment
indicating movement of the pivotable member, the cable pull handle
and the gas springs.
[0034] FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the third embodiment
showing a first position in solid lines and a second position in
phantom to illustrate the varying direction of the origin of the
resistive force to the movement of the cable pull handle.
[0035] FIG. 27 is a side elevational view of a third embodiment of
the present invention utilizing an alternate cable and pulley
assembly.
[0036] FIG. 28 is a side elevational view of a fourth embodiment of
the present invention utilizing the cable and pulley assembly of
FIG. 27 and an alternate gas spring adjustment configuration.
[0037] FIG. 29 is a side elevational view of a fifth embodiment of
the present invention utilizing an alternate cable and pulley
assembly for use with other exercise machines adapted for use with
a cable.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0038] The first embodiment of the exercise machine of the present
invention is indicated generally at 100 and is shown particularly
in FIGS. 1-2. A second embodiment is indicated generally at 200 in
FIGS. 8-9. A third embodiment is indicated generally at 300 in
FIGS. 17-18. A fourth embodiment is indicated generally at 500 in
FIG. 28. A fifth embodiment is indicated generally at 600 in FIG.
29.
[0039] Exercise machine 100 includes a frame 102 with a user
support in the form of a bench 104 sitting thereon. Frame 102
includes an inverted generally U-shaped member 106 to which bench
104 is connected. U-shaped member 106 is connected at its ends to a
respective pair of horizontal feet 108 at a central location
thereof. A pair of spaced angle irons 110 are situated parallel to
one another and are attached to each foot 108 at respective ends of
angle irons 110. The ends of angle irons 110 are connected to each
foot 108 on opposite sides of U-shaped member 106. Frame 102
further includes a mounting arm 112 having a lower end disposed
between and mounted to spaced angle irons 110. Mounting arm 112 is
further mounted at an intermediate position to U-shaped member 106
as mounting arm 112 angles upwardly and outwardly from the lower
end toward an opposed upper end 114 disposed outwardly and upwardly
of bench 104. A trunnion 116 is mounted on upper end 114 of
mounting arm 112 and includes a pivot pin 118 on which a pivotable
member or arm 120 is pivotably mounted so that pivotable arm 120
pivots substantially in a vertical plane, although arm 120 may
rotate in a different plane without departing from the spirit of
the invention. Frame 102 has a length as measured in a horizontal
direction which extends from the foot 108 distal mounting arm 112
(foot 108 to the left in the Figures) to upper end 114 of mounting
arm 112.
[0040] Pivotable arm 120 includes a first end 122 and a second
opposed end 124 defining a length extending therebetween. The
length of pivotable arm 120 is roughly of the same order as the
length of frame 102. The length of pivotable arm 120 far exceeds
its cross sectional dimensions, as discussed later. When first end
122 is in a lowered position, it extends over bench 104. A handle
126 is connected to pivotable arm 120 at first end 122 and extends
perpendicularly thereto. Similarly, a foot rest 128 is connected to
pivotable arm 120 adjacent second end 124 and extends
perpendicularly thereto.
[0041] In accordance with one of the main features of the present
invention, a force producing mechanism in the form of a gas chamber
130 including a cylinder 132 and a piston rod 134 is pivotally
connected adjacent a first end 136 of gas chamber 130 to frame 102
and further pivotally connected adjacent a second end 138 of gas
chamber 130 to pivotable arm 120 adjacent second end 124 thereof.
More particularly, gas chamber 130 is connected adjacent first end
136 to a mounting location in the form of a pivot mount 140 which
is connected to one of feet 108. Gas chamber 130 is connected
adjacent second end 138 at another mounting location in the form of
a pivot mount 142 connected to pivotable arm 120. Most preferably,
gas chamber 130 is a gas spring, although other force producing
mechanisms may be used. Gas springs provide a resistance force
which increases somewhat during compression, but the increase is
substantially less than a piston-cylinder combination wherein the
piston seals against the inner surface of the cylinder and thus
creates a substantial pressure increase very quickly during
compression. It has been found that gas springs are highly suited
for use with the present invention.
[0042] In accordance with another one of the main features of the
present invention, gas chamber 130 is removably mounted to pivot
mounts 140 and 142 and there are a plurality of pivot mounts
located on frame 102 and on pivotable arm 120 such that gas chamber
130 may be mounted at different locations to provide a different
configuration suitable to different exercises which can be
performed on exercise machine 100. In the embodiments shown,
additional pivot mounts are shown at 144 mounted on frame 102 at
the confluence of U-shaped member 106 and mounting arm 112 and also
at 146 on pivotable arm 120 adjacent first end 122. With reference
to FIGS. 2-7, machine 100 is shown sitting on a floor 148 with a
person 150 sitting or laying atop bench 104. Person 150 has arms
152 and legs 154.
[0043] In operation, and with continued reference to FIGS. 2-7,
exercise machine 100 functions as follows. FIGS. 2-3 show one
option for the use of exercise machine 100. In FIG. 2, person 150
is laying on bench 104 with arms 152 retracted in preparation to
manipulate handle 126. Gas chamber 130 is connected as shown in
FIG. 1 and described above, and is in an extended position in FIG.
2. FIG. 3 shows person 150 having extended arms 152 to push handle
126 upwardly, thereby pivoting pivotable arm 120 about pivot pin
118 in the direction shown by Arrow A whereby second end 124 of
pivot member 120 is moved downwardly. In turn, cylinder 132 is
moved toward a retracted position in the direction shown by Arrow B
in FIG. 3. During this movement, gas chamber 130 pivots adjacent
pivot mounts 142 on pivotable arm 120 and pivot mount 140 on frame
102. Thus, person 150 exerts upward force which is reacted by
compression of gas within cylinder 132 of gas chamber 130. This
compression of gas provides resistance against which person 150
exerts force in order to exercise. This basic concept is true of
all of the embodiments in this application.
[0044] FIGS. 4-5 show an alternate position for the use of gas
chamber 130. In this alternate position, gas chamber 130 is
connected adjacent first end 136 to pivot mount 144 on frame 102
and adjacent second end 138 and pivot mount 146 on pivotable arm
120. FIG. 4 shows person 150 sitting on bench 104 facing gas
chamber 130 and pivotable arm 120 with arms 152 extended. FIG. 5
shows person 150 having retracted arms 152 toward themselves so
that handle 126 is pulled downwardly and toward bench 104. Thus,
pivotable arm 120 rotates about pivot pin 118 in the direction
shown by Arrow C in FIG. 4, in turn compressing gas chamber 130
into a retracted position, cylinder 132 having moved in the
direction of Arrow D in FIG. 4 while pivotal movement adjacent
first end 136 and first end 138 has occurred as in the previous
option shown in FIGS. 2-3.
[0045] FIGS. 6-7 shown a third option for the use of exercise
machine 100. FIG. 6 shows person 150 sitting on bench 104 facing
pivotable arm 120 with feet (not shown) resting on foot rest 128
and with legs 154 bent. FIG. 6 shows gas chamber 130 in a retracted
position. FIG. 7 shows person 150 having extended legs 154 to push
foot rest 128 outwardly away from bench 104, thereby rotating
pivotable arm 120 about pivot pin 118 in a direction shown by Arrow
E in FIG. 7. Simultaneously, gas chamber 130 is moved to an
extended position with cylinder 132 moving outwardly in the
direction as shown as Arrow F.
[0046] Pivot mounts may be located in a great variety of positions
along pivotable arm 120 and on frame 102 to provide different
options for the positioning of gas chamber 130. In addition, person
150 may move pivotable arm 130 in directions opposite to that shown
in FIGS. 3, 5 and 7 to create a resistance reaction to the movement
within gas chamber 130.
[0047] With reference to FIGS. 8-16, exercise machine 200 is
further detailed. Exercise machine 200 includes a frame 202 with a
user support in the form of a bench 204 sitting atop a portion
thereof. Frame 202 includes a generally Z-shaped member 206 having
a generally horizontal middle portion 208 to which bench 204 is
connected. Z-shaped member 206 further includes a lower leg 210
extending outwardly and downwardly from one end of middle portion
208 and an upper portion 212 extending upwardly and outwardly from
the other end of middle portion 208, whereby lower portion 210 and
upper portion 212 extend generally away from one another. Lower leg
210 is attached to a horizontal foot 214 which extends
perpendicular to lower leg 210.
[0048] In accordance with another one of the main features of the
present invention, frame 202 further includes a bent leg 216 having
an upper section 218, an intermediate section 220 connected to and
extending downwardly from upper section 218 and a lower section 222
connected to and extending downwardly from intermediate section
220. Each section 218, 220 and 222 is bent or angled with respect
to one another, as at bend 224 between section 218 and 220 and bend
226 between section 220 and 222. Section 218 is connected at an
upper end thereof to upper leg 212 of V-shaped member 206 and
angles downwardly and outwardly somewhat therefrom. Intermediate
section 220 further angles downwardly and outwardly from upper
section 218 and lower section 222 further angles outwardly and
downwardly from section 220. Lower section 222 is connected to a
second horizontal foot 228 at a center portion thereof, section 222
being perpendicular to foot 228. Frame 202 has a length extending
from first foot 214 to second foot 228.
[0049] In accordance with another one of the main features of the
present invention, a bent pivotable member or arm 230 is pivotally
mounted to upper leg 212 adjacent an upper end thereof via pivot
pin 232. Pivotable arm 230 has a pair of opposed terminal ends
defining a length therebetween. Pivotable arm includes a first
section 234 adjacent one end of arm 230, a second section 236
connected to and extending from first section 234, a third section
238 connected to and extending from second section 236 and a fourth
section 240 connected to and extending from third section 238. Each
of these sections is bent or angled with respect to its adjacent
counterpart, as at bend 242 between sections 234 and 236, bend 244
between sections 236 and 238 and bend 246 between sections 238 and
240. A handle 248 has a longitudinal axis 250 and is connected to
first section 234 of arm 230 adjacent an end thereof and extends
perpendicularly to first section 234. Due to its bent nature,
pivotable arm 230 approximates a curve and is broadly a shallow
U-shaped member with its interior opening downwardly when handle
248 is in a lowered position as shown in FIG. 9. The length of
pivotable arm 230 is roughly of the same order as the length of
frame 202. The length of pivotable arm 230 far exceeds its cross
sectional dimensions, as discussed later.
[0050] As with the previous embodiment, exercise machine 200
includes a plurality of mounting locations in the form of pivot
pins located on frame 202 and pivotable arm 230. In accordance with
one of the main features of the invention, one of these pivotable
pins is mounted on bent leg 216 and is shown at 252 extending from
intermediate section 220. Frame 202 includes another pivot pin 254
extending from upper leg 212 of Z-shaped member 206. Pivotable arm
230 includes three pivot pins, one at 256 extending from second
section 236, another at 258 extending from third section 238 and
yet another at 260 extending from fourth section 240. A force
producing mechanism in the form of a gas chamber 262 extends
between and is pivotally mounted at either end thereof on pivot
pins 252 and 258. Gas chamber 262 includes a cylinder 264 and a
piston rod 266. Pivot pin 256 has a longitudinal axis 268, pivot
pin 258 has a longitudinal axis 270, pivot pin 260 has a
longitudinal axis 272 and pivot pin 232 has a longitudinal axis
274, all of which are parallel to one another.
[0051] In accordance with one of the main features of the present
invention, a triangle perpendicular to the parallel axes is defined
by axis 250 of handle 248, axis 274 of pivot pin 232, and either of
axes 270 and 272 of pivot pins 258 and 260 respectively. Thus, any
such axis of a pivot pin situated on pivotable arm 230 located on
the other side of pivot pin 232 from handle 248 which similarly
defines a triangle fits within this concept of the invention. In
particular, this triangular configuration between the noted axes
presents a movement pattern which is distinct from that found with
three aligned axes, two of which pivot about the middle axis and
are disposed on opposite sides of the middle axis. This distinct
movement accounts for some of the feel associated with the use of
exercise machine 200. The triangles just discussed can be created
by a structure other than the bent arm structure of pivotable arm
230. For example, a plate, or a triangular shaped figure with pivot
pins may be used. However, the bent section nature of arm 230 also
adds its own particular benefits to the invention. First, it is a
relatively lightweight construction compared to the possibilities
just mentioned. In addition, in the region of handle 248, bent arm
230 provides an arch-like structure beneath which the head of
person 250 can be more easily positioned than with a straight
member. This adds to the safety feature by preventing inadvertent
contact between the head of person 250 and arm 230. Further, bent
arm 230 provides a structure which is shortened compared to a
straight member offering similar angles with which gas chamber 262
is connected to pivot points 258 and 260.
[0052] In operation, and with reference to FIGS. 9-16, exercise
machine 200 functions as follows. With reference to FIGS. 9-10,
exercise machine 200 is used with gas chamber 262 connected as
previously noted. FIG. 9 shows person 150 in a supine position on
bench 204 with arms 152 in a retracted or bent position. Gas
chamber 262 is in an extended position in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 shows
person 150 having extended arms 152 so that handle 248 moves
generally upwardly to cause pivotable arm 230 to rotate about pivot
pin 232 in the direction indicated by Arrow G and causes gas
chamber 262 to be retracted and the gas within compressed as
cylinder 264 moves in a direction as indicated by Arrow H.
[0053] An alternate option is shown in FIGS. 11-12, wherein gas
chamber 262 is connected at either end to respective pivot pins 254
and 260. Thus, the triangle of concern has been changed to include
axis 272 of pivot pin 260, whereas in the option shown in FIGS.
9-10, the triangle included axis 270 of pivot pin 258. FIG. 11
shows person 150 laying on bench 204 with arms 152 bent or
retracted with gas chamber 262 in an extended position. FIG. 12
shows person 150 having extended arms 152 to push handle 248
upwardly to rotate pivotable arm 230 about pivot pin 232 in the
direction indicated by Arrow J to move gas chamber 262 toward a
retracted position by moving cylinder 264 in the direction
indicated by Arrow K.
[0054] FIGS. 13-14 show yet another option whereby two gas chambers
262A and 262B are used in conjunction. Gas chamber 262A is shown in
the position depicted in FIGS. 9-10 and is shown in an extended
position in FIG. 13. Gas chamber 262B has its ends connected at
pivot pins 254 and 256 and is in a retracted position in FIG. 13.
FIG. 13 further shows person 150 laying on bench 204 with arms 152
in a bent position. FIG. 14 shows person 150 having extended arms
152 to push handle 248 upwardly to rotate pivotable arm 230 about
the Arrow shown at L to move gas chamber 262A toward a retracted
position as cylinder 264A moves in a direction indicated by Arrow M
and to move gas chamber 262B toward an extended position, moving
cylinder 264B in the direction indicated by Arrow N. Thus, the
force exerted by person 150 in extending arms 152 is reacted in two
gas chambers whereby additional resistance to said force is
created. It is noted that gas springs are configured to create a
resistance force under compression and therefore the force
producing mechanism at 262B in FIG. 14 would not be a gas spring if
a resistance force is desired in opposition to the extension of the
user's arms.
[0055] FIGS. 15-16 show yet another option wherein gas chamber 262A
has been removed from exercise machine 200 in comparison to the
configuration of FIGS. 13-14 so that only gas chamber 262B remains
attached in the position shown in FIGS. 13-14. However, exercise
machine 200 is being used in a different fashion than FIGS. 15-16.
FIG. 15 shows person 150 sitting atop bench 204 facing pivotable
arm 230 with arms 152 extended and gas chamber 262B in an extended
position. FIG. 16 shows person 150 with arms 152 pulled downwardly
to rotate pivotable arm 230 about pivot pin 232 in the direction
indicated by Arrow O to move gas chamber 262B toward a retracted
position by moving cylinder 264B in the direction indicated at
Arrow P.
[0056] As shown in the figures, exercise machine 200 provides a
great variety of options as to the positions in which a person 150
can use the machine as well as the positions of gas chamber 262 and
its connections to the various pivot pins. Further, the bent nature
of pivotable arm 230 as well as bent leg 216 offers an improved
feel during operation of machine 200. As shown in the first
embodiment, pivotable arm 230 may be provided with a foot rest to
increase the options of exercise machine 200.
[0057] It is contemplated that pivotable arm 230 may have sections
bent with respect to one another such that they are bent upwardly
in the opposite direction shown in the figures. While such an
option may offer certain advantages, it also would create an
additional upward dimension to machine 200 as compared with the
position as shown in FIG. 9. Such a configuration would require
that gas chambers be longer than those required in the present
embodiment. Such a configuration would also move handle 248 further
away from person 150 and eliminate the space created below
pivotable arm 230 in the area where the head of person 150 is
positioned when in a supine position. The bent nature of arm 230
also reduces the overall length of machine 200 compared to a
pivotable arm which is straight. Pivotable arm 230 also allows for
a shorter length gas chamber 262 to be utilized between the pivot
pins on pivotable arm 230 disposed opposite of pivot pin 232 from
handle 248. Bent leg 216 serves another purpose. Because arm 230
serves to reduce the length of gas chamber 262 needed, it also
reduces the space available to install a gas chamber between the
outer end of arm 230 and bent leg 216. Thus, bent leg 216 is bent
so that upper section 218 and lower section 222 extends somewhat
toward the outer portion of arm 230, in particular towards third
section 238 and fourth section 240. Thus, middle section 220 of
bent arm 216 is disposed further away from said sections 238 and
240 of arm 230 to provide additional space for gas chamber 262.
[0058] Bent pivotable arm 230 may be an arcuate arm and thus
provide similar features, although not exactly the same. Bent arm
230 also has an advantage of being capable of construction from a
series of straight sections.
[0059] It is further contemplated that an exercise machine using
gas chambers and/or a bent arm may be constructed without the use
of a bench. For example, such a machine may be configured for
exercising in a standing position. Further, the bench variety
machines may be used with a person on his or her side with a
pivotable arm pivoting, for example, in a horizontal plane. Such
variations are within the scope of the invention.
[0060] Exercise machine 300 (FIGS. 17-18) has a front end 302 and
an rear end 304 opposed thereto. Machine 300 is generally elongated
along an axial direction extending between front end 302 and rear
end 304. Machine 300 also has a pair of opposed sides 306 (FIG. 17)
defining an axial direction extending therebetween. Machine 300 is
substantially bilaterally symmetrical with respect to an imaginary
vertical plane (not shown) extending in the longitudinal direction
and centered between sides 306 of machine 300.
[0061] Machine 300 includes a frame 308, a standing platform 310
mounted on frame 308, a bench 312 removably mounted on frame 308, a
pivotable member 314 pivotally mounted on frame 308 about a pivot
axis 316 (FIG. 17) and a plurality of force producing mechanisms in
the form of gas springs 318.
[0062] Frame 308 has a front end 317, a rear end 319 opposed
thereto and includes a base 320 adapted to lie on a floor 322.
Frame 308 has a length extending from front end 317 to rear end
319. Base 320 includes an axially extending first foot 324 adjacent
front end 302 and an axially extending second foot 326 spaced from
first foot 324 and disposed adjacent rear end 304. A centrally
located longitudinally extending member 328 is connected to first
foot 324 and extends toward second foot 326 about half the distance
between first and second feet 324 and 326. A longitudinally
extending connecting member 330 extends from and is connected to
longitudinal member 328 to second foot 326, to which member 330 is
connected. A mounting arm 332 angles upwardly and rearwardly from
longitudinal member 328 adjacent its connection with connecting
member 330 and terminates in an upper end 334. Mounting arm 332 and
longitudinal member 328 are formed as an integral one-piece member.
Frame 308 further includes a leg 336 which extends from and is
connected to second foot 326 and angles upwardly and rearwardly to
a terminal upper end 338. Leg 336 adjacent upper end 338 thereof
intersects and is connected to mounting arm 332 adjacent upper end
334 thereof. Frame 308 has a vertical height extending from its
lowermost portion, for example second foot 326, to its uppermost
portion atop leg 336 at upper end 338. The height of frame 308 is
substantially the same as the length of leg 336 and would be so if
leg 336 were vertically oriented.
[0063] A pair of pulley mounting locations 340 in the form of
U-shaped loops are mounted on mounting arm 332 of frame 308.
Mounting locations 340 include lower mounting location 340A and
upper mounting location 340B. Lower mounting location 340A is
adjacent the intersection of longitudinal member 328, mounting arm
332 and connecting member 330. Upper mounting location 340B is
located approximately centrally along the length of mounting arm
332. Each mounting location 340 extends generally upwardly from
mounting arm 332. A first set 342 of frame mounting locations are
mounted on mounting arm 332 along the upper half of mounting arm
332. First set 342 of frame mounting locations includes a pair of
spaced mounting structures 344 disposed on either side of mounting
arm 332 as best seen in FIG. 17. Each mounting structure 344 is
removably mounted although they may be fixedly attached if desired.
Each mounting structure 344 includes an elongated bar 346 with
three axially extending mounting members 348 each defining an
axially extending axis 350. One of mounting members 348 on one side
of mounting arm 332 cannot be seen in the Figures, but each
mounting structure 344 is substantially a mirror image of the other
so that each of the three mounting members 348 on each bar 346 is
aligned with a respective mounting member 348 of the other mounting
structure 344 such that axes 350 of the three mounting members 348
of each bar 346 are respectively coaxial. A preferred configuration
of each mounting member 348 includes a generally spherical outer
portion, more commonly known as a ball stud or a similar type
structure, which facilitates a snap-fit connection with gas springs
318 for quick removal and replacement thereof. Preferably, this
snap-fit connection is via a ball and socket connection.
[0064] A second set 352 of frame mounting locations is mounted on
leg 336 of frame 308 along the lower half of leg 336 and adjacent
second foot 326. Second set 352 includes a mounting structure in
the form of a plurality of axially extending mounting members 354
(FIG. 20) removably connected to and extending outwardly from each
side of leg 336, including a first pair of mounting members 354A
and a second pair of mounting members 354B disposed upwardly of
members 354A. Mounting members 354A are aligned with one another on
the opposed sides of leg 336, as are mounting members 354B. Each
mounting member 354 defines an axially extending axis 356 such that
mounting members 354A are coaxial with one another and mounting
members 354B are coaxial with one another. Each mounting member 354
has substantially the same configuration as each mounting member
348. A portion of leg 336 adjacent upper end 338 constitutes a
first stop 358 for limiting rotational movement of pivotable member
314 in a first direction which is counterclockwise as viewed from
the perspective of FIG. 18. Another portion of leg 336 adjacent
second foot 326 defines a second stop for limiting the rotation of
pivotable member 314 in a second direction opposite to the first
direction.
[0065] Standing platform 310 is one form of a user support for
supporting the user of machine 300 during use thereof. Platform 310
is rigidly mounted on frame 308 by any suitable means known in the
art. More particularly, standing platform 310 is mounted above
longitudinal member 328 and first foot 324. Standing platform 310
has a front end 362 and a rear end 364 in opposed relation thereto.
Front end 362 extends forward of first foot 324 and rear end 364 is
disposed adjacent the intersection of longitudinal member 328,
connecting member 330 and mounting arm 332.
[0066] Bench 312 is another form of a user support for supporting
the user of machine 300 during use thereof. Bench 3121 is removably
mounted on frame 308. In particular, bench 312 is connected to a
bench mounting frame 366 which includes a longitudinally extending
base structure 368 and a pair of legs 370 connected to and
extending downwardly from base structure 368 adjacent front end 302
of machine 300. Base structure 368 forms a yoke 372 adjacent a
front end thereof including a pair of arms 374 each defining a hole
376 for removably receiving a fastener 378 in the form of a bolt
for removably connecting base structure 368 to mounting arm 332 of
frame 308. In particular, fastener 378 extends through holes 376
and a hole 380 (FIG. 20) formed in mounting arm 332. Legs 370 of
bench mounting frame 366 are connected to one another via a
connecting rod 382 which extends axially between legs 370 adjacent
a lower end thereof. When bench 312 is mounted on frame 308,
connecting rod 382 is disposed atop standing platform 310 with
front end 362 extending forward of legs 370 and connecting rod
382.
[0067] Pivotable member 314 is substantially centered with respect
to opposed sides 306 of machine 300 and similarly substantially
centered between respective opposed sides of frame 308, standing
platform 310 and bench 312. Pivotable member 314 is pivotably
mounted on frame 308 adjacent upper end 334 of mounting arm 332 via
a pivot member 384 in the form of a bolt. Pivot member 384 extends
in an axial direction with pivot axis 316 (FIG. 17) extending
therethrough. Pivot member 384 and pivot axis 316 are rearwardly
spaced from standing platform 310 and bench 312 in the longitudinal
direction of machine 300. Pivotable member 314 is rotatable between
a fully forward rotated position (FIGS. 17-18) and a fully rearward
rotated position (approximated by FIGS. 24-25).
[0068] Pivotable member 314 includes a first portion 386 which
extends forward from pivot axis 316 and a second portion 388 which
extends rearwardly from pivot axis 316 in a direction generally
opposite to that of first portion 386. Part of first portion 386 of
pivotable member 314 extends over each of standing platform 310 and
bench 312 directly thereabove when pivotable member 314 is in the
fully forward rotated position.
[0069] First portion 386 of pivotable member 314 is extendable and
retractable. In particular, first portion 386 includes a
substantially straight first segment 392 and an extendable and
retractable second segment 394 which is slidably received within an
interior chamber 396 (FIG. 22) of first segment 392. Extendable
second segment 394 has a forward end 398 which is angled downwardly
in a first position as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. An axially
extending handle 400 is connected to second segment 394 adjacent
forward end 398 thereof and extends laterally in both directions so
that second segment 394 and handle 400 form a T-shaped structure
with handle 400 extending perpendicularly to second segment
394.
[0070] Second portion 388 has a terminal end 390 and is arcuate
over its length from terminal end 390 to adjacent axis 316. In
particular, second portion 388 forms a substantially constant arc
which curves downwardly and generally toward frame 308. In
particular, the arc defined by a second portion 388 is constant
with respect to the upper mounting members 354B on leg 336 wherein
the center of the circle of which said constant arc is a portion
lies on axis 356 of members 354B when pivotable member 314 is in
the fully forward rotated position (FIGS. 17-18). No part of second
portion 388 of pivotable member 314 extends over platform 310 or
bench 312. The length of second portion 388 is in the order of the
height of frame 308.
[0071] Pivotable member 314 has a length extending from terminal
end 390 to first end 398 generally in the longitudinal direction of
machine 300. The length of pivotable member 314 when in the
retracted position is roughly of the same order as the length of
frame 308. Pivotable member 314 has a cross sectional height (FIG.
22) extending in the axial direction of machine 300 and a cross
sectional width wherein the length of pivotable member 314 is
substantially greater than either of the width and height thereof.
The cross sectional height and width are substantially the same
here as pivotable member 314 is substantially cylindrical. Thus,
the length of pivotable member 314 is substantially greater than
and indeed far exceeds the greatest aspect of the cross sectional
dimension taken perpendicularly to the length. The ratio of the
length to the cross sectional dimension of pivotable member 314 is
usually in the range of 15:1 to 28:1 when in the retracted position
and in the range of 25:1 to 38:1 when in the extended position.
More typically, this ratio is in the range of 20:1 to 24:1 when in
the retracted position and in the range of 28:1 to 34:1 when in the
extended position.
[0072] The analogous ratio for pivotable member 120 of exercise
machine 100 is in the order of about 50:1 and for pivotable member
230 of exercise machine 200 is in the order of about 30:1. Thus,
due to the requirements of minimizing the amount of material used
to form the respective pivotable members and the need for each
pivotable member to extend sufficiently in either direction from
the pivot axis, as will be understood by one skilled in the art,
the length of the pivotable members far exceed their respective
cross sectional dimensions.
[0073] A pair of pulley mounting locations 402 and 404 in the form
of U-shaped loops are mounted on first portion 386 of pivotable
handle 314. More particularly, mounting location 402 is connected
to extendable second segment 394 adjacent forward end 398 thereof
and mounting location 404 is connected to first segment 392
adjacent a forward end 406 thereof. The loops of mounting locations
402 and 404 extend generally downwardly from pivotable member 314.
A removable securing mechanism 408 is positioned adjacent and
spaced rearwardly from forward end 406 of first segment 392 of
pivotable handle 314. Securing mechanism 408 includes a handle 410
with a rod 412 extending therefrom. Securing mechanism 408
selectively secures second segment 394 to first segment 392 of
pivotable handle 314 at a desired position, as detailed later.
[0074] A first set 414 of pivotable member mounting locations is
mounted on first segment 392 adjacent forward end 406 thereof and
has substantially the same configuration as first set 342 of frame
mounting locations and thus is described here only briefly. First
set 414 includes a pair of mounting structures 416 each having a
bar 418 with axially extending mounting members 420 each defining
an axially extending axis 422 as described with first set 342 of
frame mounting locations.
[0075] A second set 424 of pivotable member mounting locations is
disposed on second portion 388 of pivotable member 314. More
particularly, second set 424 includes a first pair of mounting
locations 424A in the form of mounting members 426 removably
connected to and extending in the axial direction laterally from
opposite sides of second portion 388 of pivotable member 314. An
axially extending axis 428 extends through each mounting member 426
whereby mounting members 426 are coaxial with one another. Second
set 424 of pivotable member mounting locations also includes a
second pair of mounting locations 424B which are movably mounted on
second portion 388. More particularly, the second mounting
locations 424B includes a movable mounting structure in the form of
a slidably moveable sleeve 430. A pair of mounting members 432 are
removably connected to and extend axially respectively from
opposite sides of sleeve 430 (FIG. 24) and define a common axis 434
which extends in the axial direction. Sleeve 430 is substantially
cylindrical and defines an interior through passage 436 (FIG. 19)
which receives second portion 388 of pivotable member 314 whereby
sleeve 430 is slidable along second portion 388. Sleeve 430 defines
a threaded hole 438 (FIG. 19) which receives a locking member 440
having a threaded portion which threadably engages sleeve 430 via
threaded hole 438 in order to selectively secure or lock sleeve 430
and thereby mounting locations 424B at a desired position.
[0076] First set 342 of frame mounting locations and first set 414
of pivotable member mounting locations are used in conjunction with
one another for the mounting of gas springs 318 or other force
producing mechanisms, as will be discussed in further detail below.
Similarly, second set 352 of frame mounting locations and second
set 424 of pivotable member mounting locations are used in
conjunction with one another for mounting gas springs 318, as shown
in FIGS. 17 and 18. More particularly, each gas spring 318 has a
first end 442 and a second end 444 opposed thereto and is elongated
between said first and second ends 442 and 444. Each gas spring 318
includes a piston 446 and cylinder 448 which slidably receives
piston 446 therewithin. Regarding the positioning of gas springs
318 shown in FIGS. 17-18, the pistons 446 of a respective pair of
gas springs 318 are pivotally and removably mounted adjacent
respective first ends 442 thereof to a respective pair of mounting
members 354A about axis 356 thereof and the respective cylinders
448 of said pair of gas springs 318 are pivotally and removably
mounted adjacent respective second ends 444 thereof respectively to
mounting members 426 about axis 428 thereof.
[0077] A second pair of gas springs 318 are respectively pivotally
and removably mounted adjacent first ends 442 thereof to mounting
members 354B on leg 336 and pivotally mounted adjacent respective
second ends 444 thereof to respective mounting members 432 on
sleeve 430. As shown in FIG. 18, this second pair of gas springs
318 is moveable in a direction indicated by Arrow A in accordance
with the sliding movement of sleeve 430 along second portion 388 of
pivotable member 314. This second pair of gas springs 318 and
sleeve 430 are shown in phantom in two alternate positions
indicating the selective aspect of positioning the mounting members
432 as desired. The length of second portion 388 of pivotable
member 314 is sufficient to provide a suitably large range of
mounting locations for gas springs 318 via sleeve 430 or another
mounting structure to provide a suitable range of force variation
which may be selected by the user. This length is simultaneously
suited so that in the fully rearward rotated position of pivotable
member 314, terminal end 390 is adjacent second foot 326 without
contacting floor 322.
[0078] It is noted that, as illustrated with machine 200 if FIGS.
13-14, force producing mechanisms may be simultaneously mounted on
each of the first and second portions 386 and 388 of pivotable
member 314, and may include different types of force producing
mechanisms so that one produces force during extension and the
other produces force during retraction or compression.
[0079] The operation of exercise machine 300 is now described. With
references to FIGS. 17 and 18, locking member 440 is loosened if
desired to allow the adjustment of the position of sleeve 430 and
thereby the position of mounting members 432 and the pair of gas
springs 318 pivotally mounted thereon. Once sleeve 430 is moved to
a desired position, locking member 440 is tightened to lock sleeve
430 in position in preparation for use of machine 300. The slidable
nature of sleeve 430 along second portion 388 allows an infinite
number of positions along second portion 388. This allows for
different degrees of resistance to the movement of pivotable member
314 whereby the closer that sleeve 430 is to pivot axis 316, the
less resistance will be experienced by the user of machine 300 and
the farther sleeve 430 is positioned from pivot axis 316, the
greater the resistance that will be experienced. Thus, the phantom
position indicated at 450 in FIG. 18 is a relatively easier
position while the phantom figure indicated at 452 in FIG. 18 is a
relatively harder position with respect to the degree of resistance
that must be overcome to rotate pivotable member 314. The constant
arc of second portion 388 of pivotable member 314 detailed above
allows sleeve 430 to slide smoothly without binding when pivotable
member 314 is in the fully forward rotated position.
[0080] Once sleeve 430 and the gas springs 318 connected thereto
are positioned as desired, the user of machine 300 may lay, sit or
assume any other suitable exercise position on bench 312, such as
those described with regard to the previous embodiments, in order
to perform such exercises as bench presses or overhead presses and
so forth. The user would thus typically grasp handle 400 and move
handle 400 rotatably upwardly such that pivotable member 314 pivots
about axis 316 against a resistance force produced by the gas
springs 318 connected to leg 336 and second portion 388 of
pivotable member 314. Any number of gas springs may be used and
machine 300 may be modified in order to include additional mounting
locations and additional gas springs or other force producing
mechanisms for increasing the amount of force if desired.
Preferably, gas springs or other force producing mechanisms are
used in pairs on opposite sides of pivotable member 314 in order to
minimize any binding of pivotable member 314 about pivot member
384.
[0081] As shown in FIG. 20, gas springs 318 are removed as
indicated by Arrows B in preparation for use in alternate locations
and may be reinstalled as desired. In addition, bench 312 along
with bench mounting frame 366 is removable from frame 308 as
indicated by Arrow C in FIG. 20 once bolt 378 is removed from holes
376 of yoke 372 and hole 380 of mounting arm 332. Once bench 312 is
removed, standing platform 310 is exposed for use as shown in FIG.
21. In addition, securing mechanism 408 is removable and
reinsertable as indicated by Arrow D in FIG. 21 in order to allow
second segment 394 of pivotable handle 314 to be moved outwardly as
shown by Arrow E in FIG. 21, thus extending pivotable member 314
and handle 400 outwardly to an alternate location which may be more
suitable to standing exercise of machine 300. More particularly
with regard to securing mechanism 408 and with reference to FIG.
22, first segment 392 of pivotable member 314 defines a pair of
holes 454 and second segment 394 defines a pair of holes 456
aligned therewith for removably receiving rod 412 of securing
mechanism 408 in order to allow the extension of handle 440 as
previously described.
[0082] Removal and reinsertion of securing mechanism 408 as
indicated by Arrow F in FIG. 23 also allows the rotational movement
of second segment 394 as indicated by Arrow G in FIG. 23 to allow
second segment 394 to move to a second position wherein the portion
of second segment 394 adjacent end 398 angles upwardly and handle
400 is positioned upwardly relative to the first position shown in
the previous figures. The rotation of second segment 394 maybe used
in conjunction with bench 312 connected as shown in FIG. 23 or
removed as desired to facilitate different exercises or the
preference of the individual user of machine 300. Other mechanisms
for adjusting handle 400 to alternate positions will be readily
evident to those skilled in the art.
[0083] With references to FIGS. 24-26, some of the versatility of
machine 300 is revealed. Gas springs 318, having been removed from
mounting members 354, 426 and 432, are now shown mounted on
respective mounting members 348 and 420. An additional pair of gas
springs 318 has been added to indicate the use of a total of six
gas springs in the position of machine 300 shown in FIGS. 24-26.
Machine 300 may also include a cable-pulley assembly 458 which
includes an upper pulley 460, a lower pulley 462 and a flexible
line in the form of a cable 464 which movably engages pulleys 460
and 462 in a manner known in the art. The flexible line may also be
in the form of a rope or other suitable flexible material capable
of use with pulleys and having sufficient tensile strength for the
intended use. Upper pulley 460 is mounted on mounting location 402
of extendable second segment 394 of pivotable member 314 and lower
pulley 462 is mounted on mounting location 340B of frame 308. Cable
464 has a first end 466 which is mounted at mounting location 404
and a second end 468 on which is mounted a handle 470.
[0084] The very simple removal of gas springs and reattachment as
discussed above allows machine 300 to be used in a resistance mode
when pivotable handle 314 is rotated in the first direction
(counterclockwise, FIG. 25) with first portion 386 thereof moving
generally downwardly towards standing platform 310 or bench 312
when attached to frame 308. Thus, with or without bench 312 mounted
on frame 308, the user can either pull downwardly on handle 400
against resistance provided by gas springs 318 or may pull
downwardly and/or in a forward direction towards front end 302 of
machine 300 on handle 470 against said resistance. The use of
machine 300 in this manner may be achieved with or without
extending second segment 394 of pivotable member 314. However,
extending second segment 394 facilitates exercise in a standing
position. It will be appreciated that second segment 394 may be
adjusted to any location between a fully retracted and a fully
extended position to allow for a greater variety of positions for
use of machine 300. It will be appreciated in addition, that the
extension and retraction of second segment 394 also affects the
amount of force which must be used to overcome the resistance
provided by gas springs 318 as the more extended positions provided
a greater amount of leverage.
[0085] As discussed with the positioning of gas springs 318 when
used with sleeve 430 and associated mounting locations, the various
mounting locations 348 and 420 provide a varying degree of force,
with a greater degree of force being produced by a gas spring which
is mounted on mounting locations 348 and 420 which are relatively
farther away from pivot axis 316 with respect to the other mounting
locations 348 and 420. In addition, of course, the user may select
the number of gas springs 318 that are desired to produce a
suitable resistance force for that individual user. Further, one
gas spring 318 may be mounted at any of the mounting locations 348
and 420 to vary the force, that is, for example, one gas spring 318
may be mounted on any one of mounting members 348 and any one of
mounting members 420 and may or may not be used in conjunction with
another gas spring mounted at mounting locations 348 and 420.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 25, Arrow H indicates the pivotable
movement of pivotable member 314 in the first direction
(counterclockwise) and the second direction (clockwise). Arrow J
indicates generally the back-and-forth movement of handle 470 and
cable 464 which also affects the movement of pivotable member 314.
Arrow K in FIG. 25 indicates the extension and retraction of gas
springs 318 in response to the movement of pivotable member 314.
With reference to FIG. 26, machine 300 also provides a unique
feature with regard to the use of cable-pulley assembly 458 in the
configuration shown or a similar configuration. FIG. 26 shows
machine 300 with second segment 394 of pivotable member 314 in a
retracted position and with lower pulley 462 mounted at mounting
location 340A instead of 340B.
[0087] When the user of machine 300 pulls handle 470 in the
direction shown by arrow L in FIG. 26 to compress spring 318 in the
direction indicated by arrow K, pivotable member 314 moves
downwardly along the path of arrow H to the position shown in
phantom lines. At the position shown in phantom lines, handle 470
is being pulled forward in the direction shown by arrow P, thus
demonstrating a changed direction in which handle 470 is pulled and
a corresponding change in the direction of the origin of force
against which handle 470 is pulled. It will be appreciated that as
pivotable member 314 rotates toward the fully forward rotated
position shown in phantom, this direction of the origin of force
changes continually throughout the pivoting movement of pivotable
member 314. At any given time during the pulling of handle 470, the
direction along which the resistance force is acting with respect
to the user of machine 300 is defined by the linear portion of
cable 464 extending from upper cable 460 to handle 470. This change
in the direction of the origin of force allows the user of machine
300 to experience the exercise of various muscle groups in a
continually changing fashion during the course of pulling handle
470 and/or the use of differing muscle groups due to the changing
direction of the origin of force. Applicant also contemplates that
this changing of the direction of origin of force will be
applicable in other regards. FIG. 26 also illustrates well the use
of first stop 358 and second stop 360. In particular, first stop
358 limits the rotation movement of pivotable member 318 in the
first direction when pivotable member 314 contacts first stop 358
as indicated by the pivotable member 314 in phantom. Second stop
360 limits a rotation of pivotable member 314 in the second
direction when terminal end 390 of pivotable member 314 contacts
second stop 360, which is approximated in FIG. 26 in the solid line
illustration of pivotable member 314. (An analogous stop of
exercise machine 200 illustrating actual contact by pivotable
member 230 is shown in FIG. 15.) The limitation of rotation by
stops 358 and 360 serves in part to protect gas springs 318 from
damage associated primarily with over extension thereof.
[0088] FIG. 27 illustrates the use of machine 300 with cable-pulley
assembly 458 situated in a different orientation. In particular,
while upper pulley 460 and lower pulley 462 are mounted in the same
location as shown in FIG. 26, second segment 394 of pivotable
member 314 is again in the extended position and cable 464 is
connected adjacent first end 466 thereof at mounting location 340B
of frame 308 so that cable 464 is looped about pulleys 460 and 462
in a fashion generally opposite to that shown in FIG. 26. More
particularly, cable 464 extends from mounting location 340B
upwardly and over pulley 460 and then downwardly and around lower
pulley 462 so that second end 468 and handle 470 may be pulled in a
generally upward direction by the user of machine 300 in order to
take advantage of a different direction of the origin of force. It
is noted, however, that this arrangement of cable-pulley assembly
458 does not provide the changing direction of the origin of force
as a result of the pivotable movement of pivotable member 314 as
discussed with regard to FIG. 26. As a result of the alternate
orientation of cable-pulley assembly 458, handle 470 moves
generally in the direction indicated by arrow Q to move pivotable
member 314 as indicated by Arrow H and gas spring 318 as shown by
Arrow M, as discussed previously.
[0089] Exercise machine 500, the fourth embodiment of the
invention, is shown in FIG. 28 and is similar to machine 300 except
for the use of different mounting structures mounted on mounting
arm 332 and on pivotable arm 314. In particular, machine 500
includes a mounting structure 502 mounted on mounting arm 332 in a
position analogous to that of mounting structure 344 of machine
300. Mounting structure 502 includes a pair of bars 504 (only one
shown) mounted on opposite sides of mounting arm 332. A pair of
mounting members 506A and 506B extend axially from each bar 504
such that each pair of mounting members 506A and 506B are aligned
with the respective pair mounted on the other bar 504 to be aligned
axially as discussed with regard to mounting members 348 of machine
300. Pivotable member mounting locations are carried by an
alternate mounting structure 508 mounted on pivotable member 314.
Mounting structure 508 defines an arcuate slot 510. A pair of gas
springs 318 are respectively mounted on mounting members 506A and
506B adjacent respective first ends 442 thereof. Each gas spring
318 is mounted adjacent a respective second end 444 thereof to
mounting structure 508. In particular, a connecting member 512 is
used to connect each gas spring 318 to mounting structure 508 via
slot 510 such that connecting member 512 extends through slot 510
and is selectively securable to mounting structure 508 thereby. Any
suitable mechanism may be used for mounting gas springs 318 to
mounting structure 508 via slot 510 as will be appreciated by those
skilled in the art.
[0090] One of gas springs 318 is mounted on mounting structure 508
in a selectively moveable manner as indicated by arrow S and is
securable at any position between the positions shown in phantom
lines. The other gas spring 318 is mounted in a set position
although it may also be moveably mounted in a manner similar to the
other gas spring 318. As discussed with regard to sleeve 430 of
machine 300, the movement of gas spring 318 as indicated by arrow S
in FIG. 28 similarly provides adjustability to any position along
slot 510 to provide a greater or lesser degree of resistance for
the user of machine 500. Once again, a lesser resistance force is
created as the moveable gas spring 318 is positioned closer to axis
316 and a relatively greater force is created as gas spring 318 is
moved away from axis 316.
[0091] Thus, exercise machine 300 provides a relatively compact
exercise apparatus which provides resistance force for the use of
exercising without the necessity of using weights or much larger
machinery in order to provide a variety of exercise positions for
exercising various muscle groups. Eliminating the use of weights
has safety advantages and saves space, as discussed previously. It
is contemplated, however, that weights may be used on a modified
version of exercise machine 300 in addition to the force producing
mechanism such as gas springs 318 if desired. In addition, machine
300 is a compact unit which provides a great variety of different
exercises without the use of a much larger structure typically
required with other exercise machinery.
[0092] A variety of changes may be made to machine 300 that are
within the scope of the present invention, as will be appreciated
by those skilled in the art. For example, the frame of a machine
such as machine 300 may be varied in a number of ways while still
providing the sufficient mounting locations and adjustability
aspects that are important to machine 300. Machines similar to
machine 300 may be used only with a standing platform such a
platform 310 or only with a bench such as 312 although the
removability of bench 312 and the use of platform 310 add to the
benefits of machine 300.
[0093] Various mounting structures have been described herein with
regard to machine 300 which are associated with mounting of gas
springs 318 or other force producing mechanisms. It is contemplated
that any of these types of mounting structures may be interchanged
with one another as desired to facilitate the adjustment of the
force producing mechanisms in producing greater or lesser degrees
of resistant force. Thus, each of the various types of mounting
structures described herein, or other suitable structures, may be
disposed on either frame 306 or pivotable member 314. For instance,
a sleeve like sleeve 430 may be used on leg 336 of mounting arm
332; mounting structures like structures 344 and 416 may be used on
leg 336 or second portion 388 of pivotable member 314; and mounting
members like mounting members 354 may be used on mounting arm 332
and pivotable member 314.
[0094] Mounting members 354 may be mounted on leg 336 in various
ways. For instance, they may threadably engage a threaded hole in
leg 336 or may be a single rod extending all the way through leg
336 via holes therein and held in place by various retaining clips
or pins. Such options permit removal of mounting members 354,
although they may be fixedly mounted by welding or by another
suitable manner known in the art.
[0095] As noted sleeve 430 may be removably mounted on pivotable
member 314. Sleeve 430 may be formed, for example, in two pieces
which are selectively removably from one another or pivotally
attached to allow removal of sleeve 430 from pivotable member 314.
Such a configuration is readily applicable to use of a sleeve like
sleeve 430 used on leg 336 or mounting arm 332. Another example to
make sleeve 430 removable is to make mounting members 426 removable
to allow sleeve 430 to slide off terminal end 390 of pivotable
member 314. Where are sleeve similar to sleeve 430 is mounted on
frame 308, for instance on leg 336, the frame members may be
removably connected to allow removal of the sleeve therefrom. Thus,
for instance, leg 326 may be removably mounted on leg 336.
[0096] The preferred removable feature of the various mounting
structures described allows for their replacement if damaged
instead of replacing more costly structure, such as the pivotable
member or portions of the frame.
[0097] Frame 308 and pivotable member 314 are formed of tubular
members, but this is not necessary to the function of the exercise
machine. Thus, the structural members may be solid and may be in
the form of substantially flat plates where appropriate. For
instance, pivotable member 314 may be formed of a metal plate as
opposed to a tubular member. A host of other options is readily
apparent to one skilled in the art. While it is an advantage to
have an extendable handle/first portion of the pivotable member,
many exercises may still be performed on machine 300 without this
feature. It will be appreciated also that the extension and
retraction of handle 400 may be achieved in a great variety of ways
as will be evident to those skilled in the art.
[0098] As noted previously, gas springs are preferred as the force
producing mechanism. However, other force producing mechanisms
known in the art may be used, either alone or in combination with
gas springs. Various elastic members such as rubber or other
elastomers may be suitable and particularly for creating a
resistance force during extension thereof, in contrast to the
compression of gas springs.
[0099] Exercise machine 600, the fifth embodiment of the present
invention, is shown in FIG. 29. Machine 600 is configured for use
with a separate exercise apparatus 602. Machine 600 is a truncated
version of machine 300 and thus more compact. As it is readily
evident, machine 600 eliminates the use of a larger frame such as
frame 308, a standing platform such as platform 310 and a bench
such as bench 312 of machine 300. In addition, a truncated
pivotable member is used. More particularly, machine 600 includes a
frame 604 including a base 606 with an upright 608 extending
upwardly therefrom. Frame 604 further includes a mounting arm 610
which angles generally upwardly from a rear end 612 of base 606 to
intersect upright 608 adjacent an upper end 614 thereof. An axially
extending foot 615 analogous to foot 326 of machine 300 is mounted
adjacent the intersection of base 606 and mounting arm 610.
Mounting arm 610 has an upper end 616 defining a stop 618. A pair
of mounting members 620 and 622 analogous to mounting members 354A
and 354B of machine 300 extend axially from either side of mounting
arm 610, although only one pair is shown.
[0100] A pivotable member 624 is pivotally connected to frame 604
adjacent upper end 614 of upright 608 about an axially extending
pivot member 626 whereby pivotable member 624 is rotatable about an
axially extending pivot axis extending through pivot member 626.
Pivotable member 624 includes a first portion 628 extending
generally longitudinally in a first direction which is generally
away from pivot member 626 and a second portion 630 extending
generally and longitudinally in a direction generally opposite that
of first portion 628 and way from pivot member 626. Second portion
630 is an arcuate member which has a constant curve as discussed
with regard to second portion 388 of pivotable member 314 of
machine 300. This constant arc is with regard to mounting member
622 in the same fashion as the arc of second portion 388 with
respect to mounting member 354B of machine 300. Pivotable member
624 has a terminal end 632 distal first portion 628. A mounting
location 634 in the form of a loop extends downwardly from
pivotable member 634 adjacent terminal end 632. A pair of mounting
members 636 (only one shown) extends from either side of pivotable
member 624 in a position analogous to that of mounting members 426
of machine 300. Another pair of mounting locations 638 (one shown)
extends from either side of sleeve 430 and is analogous to mounting
member 432 of machine 300.
[0101] A pair of gas springs 318 is mounted in the same manner as
described with regard to machine 300. Machine 600 includes a
cable-pulley assembly 640 including a pulley 642 mounted on
mounting arm 610 adjacent its intersection with base 606. Cable
assembly 640 also includes a cable 644 which moveably engages
pulley 642. Cable 644 has a first end 646 mounted at mounting
location 634 on pivotable member 624 and a second end 648 which is
adapted to mount to exercise apparatus 602. Apparatus 602 is a
piece of the exercise machinery which is adapted to utilize a cable
such as cable 644.
[0102] Thus, machine 600 is configured to provide the resistance
force as discussed with regard to exercise machine 300 with the use
of gas springs or other force producing mechanisms in conjunction
with the use of sleeve 430 or a similar mechanism for adjusting the
force as discussed therewith. As explained with regards to the
exercise machine 300, sleeve 340 is moveable in the direction
indicated by arrow T in FIG. 29. In addition, cable 644 is moveable
as indicated by arrow U in FIG. 29 to move pivotable member 624 in
a fashion somewhat similar to that described with regard to machine
300. Thus, machine 600 provides the advantages discussed with
regard to machine 300 in using gas springs 318, sleeve 430 and so
forth. As a result, exercise apparatus 602 may be adapted to
utilize the resistance force provided by gas springs 318 alone or
in conjunction with other force producing mechanisms associated
with apparatus 602. Machine 600 is also substantially more compact
than machine 300 and thus more suited to being more easily moved
and positioned with regard to use with apparatus 602.
[0103] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used
for brevity, clearness, and understanding. No unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of
the prior art because such terms are used for descriptive purposes
and are intended to be broadly construed.
[0104] Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention
is an example and the invention is not limited to the exact details
shown or described.
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